The Yamaha PSR-SX720 is a popular mid-range digital keyboard that strikes a perfect balance between affordability and functionality. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced musician, this instrument offers a wide array of features, making it suitable for various styles of music, from home practice to live gigs.
In this blog post, we’ll break down the key features, performance, and value of the Yamaha PSR-SX720 in an easy-to-read table format.
Overview Table of Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Keys | 61-key semi-weighted, touch-sensitive keyboard |
| Sound Engine | AWM Stereo Sampling & Super Articulation Lite (SA-L) voices |
| Display | 7-inch color touchscreen |
| Polyphony | 128-note polyphony |
| Voices | Over 800 voices including pianos, synths, and world instruments |
| Drum Kits | 40 drum kits |
| Sequencer | 16-track MIDI sequencer |
| Styles | Over 300 styles including pop, jazz, rock, Latin, and more |
| Effects | High-quality effects including reverb, chorus, and modulation |
| Audio Output | 2 x L/R audio outputs (for external speakers or PA system) |
| USB Connectivity | USB-to-Host, USB-to-Device, and MIDI |
| Speakers | 2 x 15W speakers |
| Weight | 12.6 kg (27.8 lbs) |
Key Features in Detail
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Sound Quality | With AWM Stereo Sampling and Super Articulation Lite (SA-L), the PSR-SX720 provides excellent sound quality. It offers over 800 instrument voices, including highly detailed pianos, strings, synthesizers, and world instruments. The 128-note polyphony ensures complex arrangements and sound layers remain clear. |
| Keyboard Feel | The 61 keys are semi-weighted and touch-sensitive, offering a responsive feel for general playing. While it may not have fully weighted keys, it strikes a good balance for performers who need a versatile keyboard for various genres. |
| Touchscreen Interface | The 7-inch color touchscreen is large, clear, and easy to navigate. It makes customizing sounds, adjusting settings, and selecting styles straightforward. The interface is intuitive, allowing for quick access to a range of features. |
| Live Control Knobs | Real-time control of modulation, filtering, and effects through dedicated knobs. This is great for musicians who perform live and need to adjust sounds quickly during a performance. |
| Styles and Accompaniments | With over 300 Styles, the PSR-SX720 covers many genres, from classical to modern pop and jazz. The Style Control feature lets users manipulate accompaniment parts live, making it easy to add professional-sounding backing tracks to any performance. |
| Sequencer and Recording | The 16-track MIDI sequencer allows users to compose and layer multiple parts. It supports MIDI recording, offering musicians the ability to capture their ideas for later editing or arranging. However, audio recording is not supported on this model, only MIDI. |
| Connectivity | Featuring USB-to-host and USB-to-device ports, the PSR-SX720 allows for easy integration with computers, tablets, or external devices. Additionally, MIDI In/Out and auxiliary input are included for broader connectivity options. |
| Speakers | The 2 x 15W speakers are good for practice sessions and small performances, though external amplification may be necessary for larger venues. |
| Portability | Weighing only 12.6 kg (27.8 lbs), the PSR-SX720 is portable and can be easily transported for gigs, rehearsals, or studio sessions. |
Pros and Cons Comparison
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Great sound quality with 800+ voices | Semi-weighted keys might not satisfy pianists |
| Intuitive 7-inch color touchscreen | No fully weighted action for piano enthusiasts |
| Extensive sound effects and style control | Limited onboard speakers for large venues |
| Excellent for live performances (Live Control) | No audio recording (only MIDI) |
| Lightweight and portable for gigs and travel | No expansion of internal sound library |
| Good variety of connectivity options (USB, MIDI) | Requires external speakers for large gigs |
Who Should Buy the PSR-SX720?
The Yamaha PSR-SX720 is an ideal choice for:
- Live Performers: The onboard Live Control knobs and Style Control features make it a great tool for musicians who want to manipulate sounds and backing tracks in real time during performances.
- Music Producers & Composers: With its 16-track sequencer and broad range of voices and effects, the PSR-SX720 is perfect for creating and recording compositions in a studio environment.
- Learning Musicians: With its educational features like Keys to Success, Smart Chord, and Chord Tracker, it’s a great tool for beginners or intermediate players looking to improve their skills.
- Gigging Musicians: At 12.6 kg, the PSR-SX720 is light enough to transport but powerful enough for small to medium-sized venues. The versatility of styles and voices makes it a flexible keyboard for a wide range of genres.
Final Thoughts
The Yamaha PSR-SX720 is an excellent all-around keyboard that offers great value for its price. It combines high-quality sound, easy-to-use controls, and robust performance features, making it perfect for performers, producers, and aspiring musicians alike. Its lightweight design and portability also make it an attractive option for gigging musicians who need both power and convenience.
However, if you’re a professional pianist looking for a fully-weighted keybed and advanced features like audio recording, you may want to look into more premium models in Yamaha’s range, such as the PSR-SX900 or Yamaha Genos.
Overall, the PSR-SX720 is a highly recommended choice for musicians seeking a feature-packed keyboard that delivers both quality and ease of use without breaking the bank.