Yamaha Reface CS (2015 – Present)

A 37-key virtual analog modeling synthesizer released in 2015 with hands-on control and 8-note polyphony.

Overview

The Yamaha Reface CS is a compact virtual analog synthesizer released in September 2015. It features 37 mini-action keys, an AN (Analog Physical Modeling) sound engine, and a fully hands-on interface with no menus. Designed for immediate playability, it offers 8-note polyphony that can be switched to monophonic mode. Despite its small size, it includes assignable LFO, ADSR envelope generator, and a self-oscillating 18 dB/octave low-pass filter. The unit includes onboard effects and a 2x 2 W amplifier driving two 3.0 cm speakers.

It connects via USB as a class-compliant MIDI device and includes a 1/4" audio input and dual 1/4" outputs. The Reface CS is powered by an external 12 VDC power supply (500 mA). At launch, it had an MSRP of $649, with an initial street price around $500.

Specifications

Number of Keys	37
Key Size	Full
Key Weight	Synth
Polyphony	8
Sound Generation	AN (Analog Physical Modeling)
Filter type	Low-pass, 18 dB/octave, self-oscillating
Envelope	ADSR envelope generator
LFO	assignable LFO
Effects	onboard effects
Amplifier	2x 2 W
Speakers	2x 3.0 cm
USB	USB port for use as a class-compliant MIDI
Audio In	1/4" input
Audio Out	dual 1/4" outputs
Power Adapter	12 VDC: PA
Dimensions (W×H×D)	530 x 60 x 175 mm
Weight	1.9 kg

Design

The Reface CS uses digital subtractive synthesis with a menu-free design, emphasizing real-time control through dedicated sliders. It features a pitch-bend lever and octave controls on the left-hand side, along with hands-on sliders for oscillator, filter, envelope, and effect parameters.

Context

The Yamaha Reface CS was generally well-received upon its 2015 release for its portability, immediate workflow, and authentic analog-style sound. It is part of Yamaha’s Reface series, a line of compact, affordable modeling synths. Though not a direct counterpart in Yamaha’s official hierarchy, it is listed in the VTA Archive as a "VTA Sibling" to the Yamaha Montage.

Market

The Reface CS had a market price of US $399 as of January 4, 2018. Aftermarket 12V power supplies are commonly available, and accessories like the Yamaha Reface CS Decksaver Set are offered by retailers.