This week we're going to take a quick look at the Yamaha TX81Z which was an affordable 1U FM synthesizer released in 1987. Whilst other FM synths are more revered, (DX1, DX5, DX7) the TX81Z made a name for itself because it contains sounds (particularly the "Lately Bass" preset) that became favourites for producers in the late 80s and early 90s. In fact, the "Lately Bass" equivalent on the earlier DX100 called "Solid Bass" was equally popular. I've listed a few well known songs that used either of those versions of the sound below.