Vangelis and the Yamaha CS-80: The Legendary Sounds
Vangelis and the Yamaha CS-80 – no other name is as inextricably linked to the iconic polysynth as that of the legendary Blade Runner composer. A new video lets you revel in the glory of Vangelis’ most famous CS-80 sounds.
Vangelis and the Yamaha CS-80: The Legendary Sounds
Look up any iconic instrument from the golden age of analog—such as the Sequential Circuits Prophet-5, Oberheim OB-X, or Roland Jupiter-8—and you’ll inevitably come across a list of famous users that reads like a “who’s who” of music history. Even back then, these synths were quite expensive, which is why they were often reserved for artists who had already “made it” (all others had to resort to punk synths 😉). And because they can be heard on so many famous songs and albums of that era, the fascination with these polyphonic legends remains unbroken to this day.
The Yamaha CS-80 is a little different. Of course, the undisputed king of Yamaha synths was also used by numerous other well-known artists. However, the myth that still surrounds the CS-80 today mostly comes down to one man’s work in particular. We are, of course, talking about Vangelis and his groundbreaking and award-winning compositions for films such as Blade Runner and Chariots of Fire.
British keyboardist, composer, and YouTuber Andy Whitmore is one of the lucky few who can call a CS-80 their own. In a new video, Andy focuses on the iconic Vangelis sounds that defined the sonic aesthetic of these monumental films. He even went as far as reconstructing the original effects chains, which are as much a part of the legendary sounds as the CS-80 itself. A real treat for all CS-80 and Vangelis fans!
Unfortunately, an original CS-80 is far out of reach for most of us. However, there are now some significantly more affordable alternatives. While your guess is as good as mine as to if and when Behringer will ever finish the DS-80, the amazing Deckard’s Dream Mk2 from Black Corporation is already available*.
Granted, this analog replica still leaves a pretty big hole in your wallet. Good thing there’s always software! Great-sounding CS-80 emulations are available from Arturia, Cherry Audio, Softube, and XILS-Lab. Who knows—you could be the next Vangelis!
More about Vangelis and the CS-80
- All things CS-80 on GEARNEWS
- Sounds and Presets: Vangelis with No CS-80 Required!
- Yamaha CS-80 Alternatives: 5 Replicants of the Polyphonic Giant
- Buyer Beware: The Most Expensive Synths of All Time
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