Does the Yamaha SX720 have Aftertouch Keyboard? [All Explained]

The Yamaha SX720 is a versatile arranger keyboard that’s won the hearts of many musicians. But when it comes to expressive playing, one question lingers: Does the Yamaha SX720 have aftertouch? Let’s explore the nuances of this popular keyboard and uncover the truth about its keybed capabilities.

Does the Yamaha SX720 have Aftertouch Keyboard?

Before we dive into the SX720’s specifics, let’s demystify aftertouch. Imagine pressing a key and then, while holding it down, applying more pressure. That’s aftertouch in action!

It allows you to manipulate sound parameters like vibrato, pitch bends, or filter sweeps, adding a new dimension of expression to your performance. It’s like adding vibrato to a guitar string or a subtle wah effect to a trumpet – all from your keyboard!

The Yamaha SX720: A Versatile Arranger Keyboard

The SX720 boasts a 61-key, organ-style keyboard that’s comfortable for various playing styles. It’s packed with features that inspire creativity, but does Aftertouch make the list?

Here’s the verdict:

While the Yamaha SX720 offers a responsive and dynamic playing experience, it does not include aftertouch functionality. This might disappoint some musicians who rely on aftertouch for expressive playing. However, the SX720 compensates with other features that enhance performance and musicality.

Does the Yamaha SX720 have Aftertouch Keyboard

Touch Sensitivity: Dynamics at Your Fingertips

Although aftertouch is absent, the SX720 features touch sensitivity, also known as velocity sensitivity. This means the keyboard responds to the force with which you strike the keys, influencing the volume and timbre of the sound. Play softly for delicate passages, or strike the keys with gusto for powerful chords – the SX720 responds dynamically to your touch.

To further personalize your playing experience, the SX720 offers adjustable touch response settings, typically ranging from soft to hard. This allows you to fine-tune the keyboard’s responsiveness to match your playing style and preferences.

Exploring Alternative Expressive Controls

The absence of aftertouch doesn’t limit the SX720’s expressive potential. Yamaha has equipped this keyboard with a range of alternative controls that allow for dynamic and nuanced performances:

  • Pitch Bend Wheel: This classic performance tool lets you smoothly bend the pitch of notes, adding vibrato, creating expressive slides, or achieving dramatic pitch effects.

  • Modulation Wheel: Assign the modulation wheel to control various parameters, such as vibrato, tremolo, or filter cutoff. This adds another layer of real-time control to your sound.

  • Assignable Knobs and Buttons: The SX720 features assignable knobs and buttons that can be customized to control various parameters. This allows for on-the-fly adjustments to effects, filters, and other sound-shaping tools.

Diving into the Specs: Yamaha SX720 Keybed Features

Let’s take a closer look at the technical specifications of the Yamaha SX720’s keybed:

  • Number of Keys: 61
  • Type: Organ-style (FSB)
  • Touch Response: Normal, Soft1, Soft2, Hard1, Hard2
  • Other Controllers: Joystick, Control Knobs, Assignable Buttons

While the SX720 doesn’t have weighted keys or aftertouch, its organ-style keybed is designed for comfortable and responsive playing across various musical genres.

Yamaha SX720

Comparing the SX720 with Other Yamaha Models

How does the SX720 compare to other Yamaha keyboards in terms of keybed features and expressive controls?

  • Yamaha SX900: The higher-end SX900 does include aftertouch, offering an additional layer of expressive control. It also features a more advanced keybed with a greater number of voices and styles.

  • Yamaha PSR-SX600: Positioned below the SX720, the PSR-SX600 shares many similarities in terms of keybed features, including the absence of aftertouch. However, it has a smaller sound library and fewer styles.

  • Yamaha Genos: As Yamaha’s flagship arranger workstation, the Genos boasts a premium keyboard with aftertouch and a wealth of advanced features. It represents a significant step up in terms of both price and performance capabilities.

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FAQs: Yamaha SX720 AfterTouch:

What type of keys does the SX720 have?

The SX720 features 61 organ-style keys, which are typically unweighted and have a lighter touch than piano keys.

Is the Yamaha SX720 touch-sensitive?

Yes, the SX720 is touch-sensitive, allowing you to control the volume and tone by varying your playing dynamics.

How good is the SX720 key action?

The key action is generally well-regarded for its price range, offering a responsive and comfortable playing experience. However, it’s not as realistic as a weighted, piano-style action.

Does the SX720 have weighted keys?

No, the SX720 does not have weighted keys. Weighted keys are typically found on digital pianos and higher-end keyboards designed to emulate the feel of an acoustic piano.

How would you rate the overall keyboard quality of the Yamaha SX720?

The keyboard quality is generally considered good, providing a reliable and responsive playing experience for musicians of various skill levels.

Conclusion:

Hence the Yamaha SX720 does not have After touch Key bed or Keyboard support for the base model. You can get more info regarding the piano here at their official Site. However, the other superior Pro models of the Yamaha Pianos have the Aftertouch keyboard enabled.

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