yamaha ex5

There are three instruments in Yamaha's new EX range: the 61‑key EX7, the 76‑key EX5, and the EX5R rackmount MIDI module. For this review we're looking at the flagship EX5 model, but in large part my observations can be taken to refer to the other two models as well. Aside from the keyboard and a fair amount of weight and size, the EX5R merely loses a few foot‑controller inputs, MIDI B In and Out sockets, and the EX7's array of Bank and Program select buttons. The EX7 makes some more significant compromises for its cheaper price: half the polyphony, no VL synthesis, fewer synthesis combinations, less flexible Insertion effect routing, a single A‑D input, and no MIDI B In and Out or pair of individual outs (though it has the same expansion capability as the EX5/5R).
The EX5 is a solid, weighty instrument with a spacious, well‑organised front‑panel layout, six chunky infinite rotary knobs that just beg to be twiddled, and a modest backlit graphical LCD which I found rather disappointing after the Technics KN5000's glorious full‑colour LCD screen (see review in last month's issue). The 76‑key keyboard has a moderate travel and a pleasing semi‑weighted feel, though personally I could have done with a little less key bounce on the rebound.