The KX88 came out mid-80's and is roughly the same generation as the DX7II synth. It weighs in at 63 pounds, and the KX76 (76 note non-weighted version) weighs 37 pounds. The KX88 has four data slider, a pitch wheel and modulation wheel, seven assignable mode switches and two sets of 16 program select switches. It has one midi in, one midi out, two Footswitch jacks, and two footcontroller jacks.

I've used the KX88 since I bought mine in 1988. It can send on two channels at a time, but must be programmed in hex, which can be a real chore. It only has two two-digit LEDs, so programming can be cryptic. The controller code preset table is silk screened to the front of the machine, so that helps a bit. However, the KX88/76 were really designed to be used with the contemporaneous Yamaha MEP4, which adds considereable midi processing power. Used in conjunction with that, or a similar unit, the KX is still a powerful controller.

The KX88 must be one of the most reliable pieces of midi hardware ever made. Mine has been in continuous use for over ten years and has never failed or even crashed in all that time.

Several features of the KX88 have never been equalled: The design of the front panel is superb. 32 patch select buttons make grabbing presets a breeze, unlike other controllers which will have a keypad or only eight patch select buttons. Also, the front panel is steel, with a recessed area that contains the buttons. This recessed area is also perfect for holding pencils, paper clips, drinks, etc. The steel part is also flat, and perfectly holds a computer keyboard, mouse, trackball, removable hard drive, etc.

The only drawback to the KX88 in terms of gigging is the weight. 63 pounds gets very heavy very fast if you're the one hauling it to the job.

All in all, while other controllers may look sexier and have better displays and more buttons and flashing lights, the KX88 is the ultimate workhorse 88 note controller.