$450 · Yamaha DX100

A small but powerful synthesizer, the DX100 is from the same FM family as the DX7. It offers four operators and eight algorithms (compared to the six operators and 32 algorithms of the DX7). It has only 49 keys, and no arpeggiator or effects, but is still useful, known in particular for its thick bass patches. It features up to 192 presets, seriously improving the DX7's limited preset capabilities. More info and gear at www.marrsaudio.com