Dire Straits - Yamaha DX-1 1983

The Dire Straits Yamaha DX1 FM synthesiser.

Produced in limited numbers, with only 140 units manufactured between 1982 and 1983, the Yamaha DX1 synthesiser stands as an exceptionally rare piece of musical equipment. As time has passed, fully functional examples have become increasingly scarce, elevating this particular DX-1 to the status of a unique artefact in musical history.

Originally acquired from the London Synthesiser Centre in 1984, this DX-1 holds a special place in the history of Dire Straits. The band’s keyboard player Guy Fletcher extensively utilised this synthesiser during the recording of the iconic album ‘Brothers In Arms.’ The distinctive sounds crafted using this synth have become synonymous with the album's signature sound.

The actual patches and sounds utilised during the Montserrat sessions in late 1984 and early 1985 are still preserved within the synth's built-in memory and on the two RAM cartridges housed within the device. (These sounds can be listed separately upon request).

Beyond Dire Straits, the DX-1 was deployed by Guy on records for various artists, including Tina Turner (Break every Rule), Randy Newman (Land Of Dreams), Aztec Camera (Knife), Willie DeVille (Miracle), and the Princess Bride movie soundtrack. The collaboration between Guy and Mark Knopfler at A&M Studios in Los Angeles resulted in the synth featuring in the soundtrack of The Princess Bride. Many other distinctive patches found their way into multiple collaborative works by Mark and Guy. 

The enduring appeal of this synthesiser lies in the unparalleled clarity and sonic depth, qualities that remain unmatched by contemporary software replication. Hand-built in Japan, the DX-1 is an example of craftsmanship and cosmetic design rarely seen in today’s instruments.

Beyond the recording studio, the DX-1 played a pivotal role in the Brothers In Arms World tour, serving as Guy's primary keyboard on stage. Its presence is documented in numerous Dire Straits shows from that era, including iconic performances at Live Aid (pictured), Knebworth, and the Nelson Mandela concerts. This DX-1 stands as a testament to both its historical significance and its enduring impact on the sonic landscape of the music it contributed to.

The synth was also used recently on the Teenage Cancer Trust ‘Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes’ track produced by Guy Fletcher (release March 15th 2024) and is featured on the original Sir Peter Blake cover artwork.

Fully functional, the synth underwent a full service by renowned keyboard technician Tiny Evans in 2023. It is presented with the original flight case and folding heavy-duty keyboard stand which was custom built for the synth for the Brothers In Arms world tour.

The original Yamaha manual is included.

The synth is located in London but shipping can be arranged.