Yamaha CX5M

The Yamaha CX5M combined an MSX1 home computer with an SFG-01 FM synthesizer module, MIDI interfaces and a connector for Yamaha musical keyboards.

It became one of the most recognisable music computers of the 1980s, linking affordable home computing with Yamaha’s professional synthesizer technology.

Notable Features

• Eight-note polyphonic four-operator FM synthesizer
• MIDI IN and OUT
• Connector for Yamaha music keyboards

Historical Significance

• It became one of the most recognisable music computers of the 1980s, linking affordable home computing with Yamaha’s professional synthesizer technology.

Collector’s Notes

• The SFG module, music keyboard, regional power supply and original music software are central to a complete system.
• Memory, storage, displays and expansion hardware should be documented because configurations often changed during a system’s working life.

Specifications

Technical Information
Name	Yamaha CX5M
Manufacturer	Yamaha
Launched	Sunday, January 1, 1984
Country	Japan
CPU	Sharp LH0080A / Z80A compatible
Units Sold
MIDI	MIDI IN and OUT through the SFG-01
Form Factor	Keyboard console
Power	Internal or external mains supply
Networking	None built in
Operating System	MSX BASIC; MSX-DOS on disk-equipped models
Expansion / I/O	Cartridge, cassette, joystick, printer and video connections
Keyboard	Integrated keyboard
Storage	Cartridge, cassette and side-slot module
Sound	YM2149 PSG plus SFG-01 YM2151 eight-voice FM synthesis
Colours	16 on MSX1; expanded palette on MSX2/2+
Graphics	TMS9918A/9929A: 256 x 192 pixels with sprites
Display	Television or monitor
ROM	MSX BIOS and BASIC plus model firmware
RAM	32 KB main RAM and 16 KB video RAM
CPU Speed	3.58 MHz