Yamaha SHS-10
| Category | Electronic (keytar) |
|---|---|
| Country of origin | Japan |
| Classification | keytar, synthesizer model |
| Wikipedia | en.wikipedia.org |
| Wikidata | Q3571430 |
Overview
The Yamaha SHS-10 is a battery-powered shoulder keyboard — a keytar — released by Yamaha in 1987. With 32 mini keys, on-board FM synthesis voices, an automatic accompaniment section, and MIDI output, it packaged the strap-on keyboard concept at a price aimed at younger players and home users rather than touring professionals. The instrument was sold in red, black, and silver finishes and remains one of the most recognisable budget keytars of the late 1980s.
Origin & History
Yamaha released the SHS-10 alongside its higher-end DX-series keytar concepts at a moment when the strap-on keyboard idea, popularised in the early 1980s by Roland’s SH-101 modulus and Moog’s Liberation, was becoming a visual signature of pop music. Yamaha targeted a different market by simplifying the synthesis to a small set of FM presets, embedding an auto-accompaniment system that could play full backing patterns, and pricing the instrument well below the professional-tier KX5. The SHS-10 sold strongly in the late 1980s and into the early 1990s.
How It’s Played
The SHS-10 is played hung from a strap, with the right hand on the keys and the left hand operating the volume slider, modulation, and pitch-bend controls on the neck. The auto-accompaniment section provides drums, bass, and chord patterns, with chord recognition triggered by buttons on the neck. The MIDI output allows the unit to drive any external synthesizer or sound module, which is how many players use it today — as a low-cost portable MIDI controller rather than for its internal voices.
Cultural Significance
The SHS-10 is a touchstone of late-1980s home-keyboard culture and an early democratising example of MIDI control hardware. It has remained popular with collectors of vintage Yamaha gear and with electronic-music performers seeking a lightweight, eye-catching MIDI controller. Several modern keytars still trace their basic ergonomic design back to the SHS-10’s neck-and-key layout.
Related Instruments
- Stylophone – another compact, accessible electronic keyboard
- Roland Juno-106 – contemporary professional Roland synthesizer
- Korg Poly-61 – contemporary affordable Korg polysynth
- Clavinova – Yamaha’s home-keyboard programme
- Disklavier – Yamaha’s automated piano programme
Frequently Asked Questions
What synthesis does the SHS-10 use?
2-operator FM, with a small set of preset voices.
Does it have MIDI?
Yes — MIDI output is included.
Is it battery-powered?
Yes, it runs on six AA batteries or an optional adapter.