The Yamaha CE-25 Combo Ensemble, released in 1982, is an FM synthesizer that preceded the famous DX7 by one year. It offers a unique combination of high-quality FM sounds in a compact and versatile format.
Virtual Yamaha CE-25 presentation
YAMAHA CE-25 COMBO ENSEMBLE
Introduction
The Yamaha CE-25 Combo Ensemble, released in 1982, is an FM synthesizer that preceded the famous DX7 by one year. It offers a unique combination of high-quality FM sounds in a compact and versatile format.
Key Specifications
- Brand: Yamaha
- Model: CE-25
- Type: Digital FM Synthesizer
- Release Year: 1982
- Polyphony: 8 voices
- Multitimbral: 1
- Keyboard: 49 keys
- Velocity: Yes
- Aftertouch: Yes
Sound Generation
- Engine: FM (Frequency Modulation)
- Oscillators: 2 per voice, sine wave
- Presets: 20 FM preset sounds
- LFO: 1 (used as vibrato)
- Envelope: ADSR (Attack, Decay, Sustain, Release)
Features
- Real-time Editing: Limited control of envelope and filter via sliders
- Effects: Built-in symphonic effect (Yamaha’s version of chorus)
- Touch Response: Aftertouch for expressive control
- Vibrato: Controllable speed and delay, depth via modulation wheel
- Default Preset: String sound when first powered on
Connectivity
- Audio Output: Mono line output for external amplification
- Headphone Output: Mono/stereo headphone jack
- Pedal Inputs: Sustain pedal and expression pedal input jacks
Notable Characteristics
The CE-25 is known for its exceptionally real and natural FM voices. The symphonic effect automatically activates with string and organ presets but can be applied to any preset. While offering real-time editing, custom sounds cannot be saved.
Conclusion
The Yamaha CE-25 represents a significant step in the evolution of FM synthesizers, offering high-quality sounds and expressive features in a compact format, just before the arrival of the legendary DX7.