The heart of the SPX2000 hardware is a 96-kHz DSP LSI with 32-bit internal processing (58-bit accumulator) that delivers plenty of processing power for the unit's advanced effect algorithms. 24-bit, 128-times oversampling AD and DA converters achieve 106 dB dynamic range and flat response from 20 Hz to 40 kHz at the 96-kHz sampling rate.

The SPX2000 memory is organized into three banks: "PRESET," "CLASSIC" and "USER." The PRESET bank contains 97 programs, 17 of which feature Yamaha's acclaimed REV-X reverb algorithms. REV-X reverb programs deliver the richest reverberation tone and smoothest decay available. There are separate REV-X Hall, REV-X ROOM, and REV-X PLATE algorithms, and corresponding new parameters such as ROOM SIZE and DECAY ENVELOPE that contribute to higher definition and finer reverb nuance. The other 80 presets are popular SPX programs such as gate reverbs, delays, pitch effects, modulation and other special effects. Other advanced algorithms - such as Multi-band Dynamic Processors - are inherited from the DM series Digital Production Consoles. All programs have been created through detailed listening and editing by leading engineers.
The "CLASSIC" bank contains 25 programs reminiscent of the original presets from early SPX models such as the SPX90II.
The "USER" bank can store 99 user programs.

The SPX2000 is designed for maximum operability and reliability in any situation. The rugged aluminum front panel features 2 sets of intuitive cross-keys for easy navigation and editing. Parameters are arranged into 3 groups: PARAMETER, FINE PARAM, and UTILITY for speedy access. Other dedicated control keys — UNDO, COMPARE, BANK, MODE, METER, TAP, and BYPASS — ensure efficient operation. For striking visual contrast and easy identification, the SPX2000 LCD has five backlight color variations. Any of the five colors can be assigned to user programs as required. The preset programs are color-coded by effect group for instant identification: cyan for reverbs, white for delays, magenta for pitch & modulation, yellow for others, and green for the CLASSIC bank. Red is reserved for warning messages. There's also an OPERATION LOCK function that offers 3 security levels to prevent accidental utility setting changes, protect stored memories, or to prohibit almost all operations.

For analog input and output the SPX2000 rear panel has latching XLR type connectors as well as quarter-inch phone jacks for the left and right channels. A +4 dBu/-10 dBu selector switch provides extra level-matching flexibility. Digital connection is facilitated via AES/EBU XLR type I/O connectors and a BNC WORDCLOCK IN connector. MIDI IN, OUT/THROUGH and USB TO HOST connectors are provided for remote control and data management using a computers digital mixing console, or MIDI device. A footswitch connector for effect tempo control is provided on the front panel.

The supplied SPX2000 Editor application makes it easy to edit and manage data from a personal computer, as well as remotely control the SPX2000 directly from the computer. The SPX2000 Editor provides a common operating environment and interface for the SPX2000 and Yamaha digital mixing consoles.