Montage Rack Synthesizer (ESP)

[denesruehl]

Ilike to @the ESP from the MODXM to my Nord Stage 4 Setup....


Yamaha MODX M – The Best Price-Performance Ratio Right Now


If the compact MODX M eventually receives the ESP software, then buying a reasonably priced MODX M6 basically gives you a “desktop/rack version of the Montage” for live use – provided you’re running a laptop and audio interface.

WOW!

Everything else has already been discussed countless times, but here’s a brief summary:
The build quality of the chassis, keyboard, connectors, knobs, and power supply is crucial for professional musicians. A stage instrument needs to perform reliably in all conditions – heat, cold, humidity, or dust.
But do you really need that level of durability at home or on a small stage? Probably not.
Sound Quality & Connections
The D/A converter and line-out quality differ slightly, but in a live band mix you’ll hardly notice. The sound largely depends on your speakers, studio monitors, or PA system – they make a far bigger impact on a synth’s tone than the internal converters ever could.
Technically, there’s almost no difference in the A/D converters, but the Montage does provide a somewhat stronger output signal.
Important details:
• MODX M → unbalanced outputs (TS)
• Montage → balanced outputs (TRS), compatible with both TS and TRS cables

Again, cables matter – the difference between balanced/unbalanced or shielded/unshielded cables can cause tiny tonal variations, but nothing significant.

A few EQ, volume, or compression tweaks on the MODX M are usually enough to make it fit perfectly for your live venue.
Keyboard & Playability

The MODX M keyboard might have a new name, but it’s essentially the same as the MODX+, with only minor improvements.
It’s not a full-sized synth keyboard with a springy feel, but rather a bit more compact – perfectly fine unless you demand top-tier keybed quality.
The key response between the MODX M and the Montage is noticeably different, but not necessarily a dealbreaker for most players.
Studio vs. Live Sound

For studio professionals, extra harmonics or finer nuances can be important, but for live performers, that’s negligible. External components such as cables, mixers, studio monitors, or PA systems influence your sound much more than the synth’s internal processing or converters.
In a live mix, the tonal difference between MODX M and Montage is almost inaudible. On high-end studio monitors or headphones, you might notice it, but not enough to consider the MODX M “significantly worse.”

Conclusion & Tip
The MODX M offers more than enough performance for your level of gigs – small clubs, restaurants, or semi-pro shows.
An iPad running B-3X (organ) or other synth apps combined with Camelot Pro makes for a great sound expansion. Integration is simple: connect your iPad with a single cable, and you’re ready to go.

The external power supply of the MODX M doesn’t have to be a drawback. Sure, internal PSUs are more robust and expensive, but how often has your power adapter actually failed? Fewer cables on stage is usually better anyway.
As for connectors and build quality, the Montage is clearly superior – built to last a lifetime and designed for professional stage and studio use. Even after years of heavy use, nothing loosens or wobbles.