Yamaha Synths Official Unveils the MONTAGE M Series: Digital Powerhouse for Stage and Studio

The interview quickly moves into hands-on territory, with Matt Johnson demonstrating patch creation techniques that leverage the MONTAGE M’s performance controls. The super knob emerges as a central macro tool, enabling complex sound morphing and seamless transitions between timbres. Assigning parameters to the super knob is described as straightforward, making it easy to craft evolving, expressive sounds without menu-diving.

Polyphonic aftertouch is another highlight, offering dynamic control over multiple parameters per note. Johnson shares how he programs patches so that pressing keys with aftertouch can fade elements in and out or shift pitches, resulting in layered, interactive textures. These features are not just theoretical: the video showcases real-world patches where morphing and aftertouch combine to create sounds that evolve under the player’s fingertips, underscoring the MONTAGE M’s potential as a live performance instrument.

Matt Johnson singles out two features that elevate the MONTAGE M for live use: the scene system and seamless sound switching. Scenes allow a single patch to contain up to eight entirely different sound setups or level changes, providing instant recall of complex layers during a performance. This eliminates the need for patch hunting mid-song, letting performers move fluidly between sounds with a quick flick or click.

Seamless sound switching is equally crucial, enabling users to hold a patch’s sound while transitioning to another without audio dropouts. Johnson notes that this feature holds the previous sound indefinitely, a boon for live players who need uninterrupted transitions. Together, these capabilities position the MONTAGE M as a serious contender for demanding stage environments, where flexibility and reliability are paramount.

The discussion turns to the vast waveform library within the MONTAGE M, with both Johnson and Sigalas emphasizing that many waveforms are not represented in the factory presets. This abundance invites users to dig deeper, discovering unique sonic building blocks that can transform a patch or inspire entirely new sounds. Johnson advocates for starting sounds from scratch, arguing that this approach gives users full control over the architecture and avoids hidden surprises in patch editing.

For those willing to explore, the MONTAGE M’s waveform selection—spanning AWM2 samples, FM-X algorithms, and AN-X oscillators—offers a playground for adventurous sound designers. The encouragement to move beyond presets and blend elements from different engines reflects Yamaha’s intent to provide not just a preset machine, but a deep, customizable synthesis platform. The video leaves open the question of just how navigable this depth is in day-to-day workflow, but the potential for discovery is undeniable.