CS-80 Blind Test | Yamaha vs Arturia, Softube, Cherry Audio & XILS

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Can YOU tell the difference between the legendary Yamaha CS-80 and today’s best software emulations? In this blind test, host Andy Whitmore — producer, synth expert, and collector of 65 keyboards — compares the original CS-80 with recreations from Arturia, Softube, Cherry Audio, and XILS Lab. You’ll hear iconic sounds from Vangelis, Michael Jackson, Toto, and even Doctor Who — but only ONE is the real hardware. Play along, make your guesses, and see if your ears can spot the legendary CS-80 among the plugins. Don’t forget to follow for more synth deep-dives, blind tests, and music production stories from the studio. ⏱️ Chapters 0:00 Intro 0:35 Round 1: Jon & Vangelis – I Hear You Now (Main Theme) 1:20 Round 2: Michael Jackson – Human Nature (Brass Pad) 2:14 Round 3: Pitch Strip 3:07 Round 4: Doctor Who Theme (Bass) 3:56 Round 5: Vangelis – Blade Runner (String Pad) 4:37 Round 6: Toto – Africa (Brass Pad) 5:14 Round 7: Polyphonic Aftertouch 6:09 Round 8: Vangelis – Chariots of Fire (Brass Lick) 6:54 Round 9: Doctor Who (Signature Sting) 7:49 Summary Follow the YouTube channel for the full video version: [@AndyWhitmore]

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© 2025 CS-80 Blind Test | Yamaha vs Arturia, Softube, Cherry Audio & XILS