Yamaha updates four classics for the contemporary market.

Despite the surprise being spoiled by the leak that happened yesterday (July 6), Yamaha has officially launched its new Reface line of synths.

As expected, there are four models based on classic Yamaha lines – the Reface YC combo organ, the Reface CP electric piano, an FM synth called Reface DX and an eight voice polyphonic virtual analog synth, the Reface CS. Each features 37 mini keys and physical controls inspired by the original instruments.

During the launch event, which was streamed online, Yamaha revealed a few other nifty features. Though only the Reface DX has a patch memory, all four can use an iOS app called Capture – this allows you to plug your phone into the keyboard and switch presets, regardless of the position of the physical controls.

Yamaha also announced a web-based sound sharing network called Soundmondo. As well as functioning as a kind of social network where you can create a profile and upload YouTube and SoundCloud embeds, the site makes use of Web MIDI, meaning you can create, save and share synth patches with other users through your web browser.

Yamaha confirmed that the Reface line and accompanying Capture app should be available in early September, costing $799 each – you can check out video demonstrations of the four models below, and we’ll have more analysis of Reface tomorrow.