[4][5][6] It offers four operators for each of its eight voices, and has eight algorithms (compared to the DX7's six operators for each of its sixteen voices, and thirty-two algorithms).

It has only 49 mini-keys, and no arpeggiator or effects, but is still useful, known in particular for its bass patch #1.

It lacks cartridge support, but voice patches can be saved to and loaded from an external cassette recorder.

It was the cheapest user-programmable FM synthesiser made in the 1980s, leading to its popularity even amongst professional musicians in the 80s and 90s.

It's essentially a cut down version of the DX21 and DX27, using the same FM chip, the YM2164.