Listen To A Yamaha VP-1 - One of the Rarest Instruments

Published on Oct 25, 2019 sonicstate

Starts with Buchla bongos. You have to pay more for decent bongos - bongos = expensive.

"At the Yamaha 45 years streaming event in Hamamatsu, Japan, we were lucky enough to get a tour of the Innovation Road - Yamaha's history of products museum - which incidentally is open to the public. One of the items on display is the physical modeling VP-1 - one of Yamaha's physical modeling instrument from 1994 - it is incredibly rare, with only a handful of units in existence.

We persuaded YamahaSynth.com's Nate Tschetter to fire it up and let us have a listen."

Yamaha Instruments HQ - Museum Tour - Innovation road

Published on Oct 14, 2019 sonicstate

"We were lucky enough to travel to Hamamatsu - the home of Yamaha musical instruments in Japan, where they were celebrating 45 years of making synthesizers. They have a large exhibition hall called Innovation Road which tracks the beginnings of Yamaha from 1897 and their first reed organs, through their products (not all of which are instruments) upto the modern day.

Yamahasynth's Nate Tschetter took us through it."

Update: see this post for a 2015 NAMM video on the Yamaha Vintage Synth Museum, and see here for history of Yamaha FM synthesis and the GS1.

Press Release for Yamaha's Major OS Updates for MONTAGE, MODX and CP Stage Piano

Published on Sep 23, 2019 Yamaha Synths Official

Update: Playlist above added.

Montage OS v3.0 | New Features
Montage OS v3.0 | Pattern Sequencer
Montage OS v3.0 | Global Tuning
Yamaha CP88 OS v1.20 | Sound Demo

Related posts:

Yamaha #Synths1974 Live from Japan | Innovation Road Tour
Yamaha #Synths1974 Live from Japan
MONTAGE OS V3.0 Sound Demos
White Montage + OS V3 Updates from Yamaha Japan
BoBeats: Yamaha MODX 2.0 Update — How to get started with the new sequencer
Yamaha Synth Story & the Montage White & MODX OS v2.0
You can also see the Yamaha Label at the bottom of any related post for more.

High level overview of what's new:

"Yamaha has launched major operating system updates today to three Synthesizer product lines as part of the celebration of the 45th Anniversary of Yamaha Synthesizers: MONTAGE OS v3.0, MODX OS v2.0 and CP OS v1.2, building on feedback from users. Yamaha has added significant features to all three synths:

MONTAGE OS v3.0 and MODX OS v2.0:
Pattern sequencer
Improved synth engine
Wave Folder effect
Hybrid MIDI mode
New Performance content

CP OS v1.2
30 new Voices in the CP Sub section
More assignments and range parameters for the foot controller and mod lever
Quick navigation features like LIVE SET Reset and Quick Enter
MONTAGE OS v3.0 and CP OS v1.2 are available for free download now; MODX OS v2.0 will be available October 25.

And the official press release:

Yamaha Synthesizers Launches Major OS Updates for MONTAGE, MODX and CP Stage Piano

BUENA PARK, Calif. (September 23, 2019) – Yamaha launched major operating system (OS) updates today to three Synthesizer product lines, integrating features, enhancements and content based on feedback from the community of synth artists.

As part of the larger celebration of the 45th anniversary of Yamaha Synthesizers, the company unveiled the enhanced operating systems MONTAGE OS v3.0, MODX OS v2.0 and CP OS v1.2. These new OS versions are designed to help music makers get the most out of their instrument and take inspiration from input submitted to Yamaha by users.

The flagship Yamaha synth MONTAGE gets its sixth free OS update in v3.0, a first for any Yamaha synthesizer, and its more compact counterpart MODX takes on a similar array of added features in its v2.0 OS. The biggest new feature is a pattern sequencer, ideal for creating and playback both linear songs or pattern-based arrangements with real time arrangement control. There’s also an improved synth engine, with Virtual Circuitry Modeling Mini Filter and Mini Boost effects for vintage synth-style sounds. Yamaha has also added a Wave Folder effect for adding complexity creating more experimental sounds as well as a high-speed LFO for even more creative possibilities. Improved MIDI capability with a hybrid MIDI mode makes integrating MONTAGE or MODX with MIDI gear even easier. In addition to these major new features and capabilities, MONTAGE OS v3.0 and MODX OS v2.0 both come with a collection of new Performance content created by Yamaha artists and sound designers.

OS v1.2 for the Yamaha CP stage pianos represents the second major OS upgrade for this product line. Responding to user input, Yamaha has added 30 new Voices to the CP Sub Section. The foot controller and mod lever now have more assignments and range parameters so musicians can have them work within a chosen range. Quick navigation features like LIVE SET Reset and Quick Enter have been added to streamline the CP’s interface even further.
“We constantly receive great feedback from our users,” said Nate Tschetter, product marketing manager, Yamaha Synthesizers. “It’s great to be able to realize that input with three new OS updates. We hope these new enhancements inspire more music-making with MONTAGE, MODX and CP and look forward to helping people get the most out of their instruments.”

Pricing and Availability
Yamaha MONTAGE OS v3.0 and CP OS v1.2 are currently available via free download to all MONTAGE and CP stage piano users. MODX OS v2.0 will be available via free download to all MODX users on October 25. For details see http://4wrd.it/45THOSUPDATES

For more information about Yamaha Synthesizers, visit www.YamahaSynth.com

Yamaha Behind The Synth Podcast

Playlist:

1. Meet Nate and Blake from Yamaha Music USA in the introductory Behind the Synth Podcast.

2. Nate and Blake explore the RM1x Sequencer Remixer, a cool sequencer released in 1999 with a nice tone generator and realtime controls.

3. Nate and Blake explore the CS15, an analog synthesizer released in 1978.

"ilium gone" by Nate Wood of fOUR - inspired by the minilogue xd

Published on Jun 11, 2019 Korg

"Nate Wood performing his latest track 'ilium gone', inspired by the minilogue xd and part of his current music project, fOUR"

Drums & 5-string bass. Pretty amazing.

Sub Phatty: Sound Design Tips & Tricks

Streamed live 2 hours ago Moog Music Inc

Starts at 5:20.

"On this live stream we explore sound design possibilities with the Sub Phatty with Moog Instrument Specialists Nate Marino and Steve Maass as they build a track from scratch."

New Yamaha MODX Synthesizer Demo Videos

Published on Sep 14, 2018

Update: added fourth demo to the playlist above, and the official press release below.

Playlist:

1. Yamaha MODX Synthesizer - All Playing, No Talking! - Kraft Music

Find exclusive Yamaha MODX Synthesizer BUNDLES at Kraft Music:
https://www.kraftmusic.com/search?q=Y...

Kraft Music's very own Adam Berzowski plays on the Yamaha MODX8 Synthesizer at Kraft Music.

Yamaha MODX synthesizers are equipped with an inspiring and sophisticated synthesis engine based on the same technology that powers the flagship Montage. Motion Control Synthesis, Motion Sequences, the Super Knob, and 4-Part Seamless Sound Switching provide expressive and interactive control of the AWM2 and FM-X sound engines, bringing music production automation to realtime live performance. An A/D input processes external audio sources, while audio and MIDI can be sent and received via a single USB cable. The 61-key MODX6 and 76-key MODX7 feature non-weighted synth action keyboards. The MODX8 features an 88-note weighted keyboard action.

Get more for your money with an exclusive Yamaha MODX synthesizer bundle from Kraft Music. These package deals include the accessories you'll need to get the most out of your new synth, all for one low price. If you have any questions, please give us a call. Our knowledgeable Sales Advisors will be happy to assist in choosing the bundle that's right for you!

2. Yamaha MODX Synthesizer Review + Sound Demo & Tutorial - BoBeats

Review of the Yamaha ModX Synthesizer + sound demo and tutorial. BE AWESOME and become a Patron: http://www.patreon.com/bobeats

TIME STAMPS/PARTS
Part 1: Basic features 2:35
Part 2: Creating a sound 4:44
Part 3: Adding a FM voice 13:27
Part 4: Motion control 19:00
Part 5: Computer integration 27:13
Part 6: Pros and cons 28:56
Part 7: Alternatives 30:58

3. Yamaha MODX unboxing and demo!

The Yamaha MODX6 has arrived in the shack and we'll introduce this interesting and significant new synth, do a leisurely unboxing, discuss the features and specifications and then play some of the signature sounds using the new FM-X synthesizer engine. We'll be demonstrating the MODX6, which has the same features as the MODX7 and MODX8, with technology inherited from the flagship Yamaha Montage.

This is the successor to the Yamaha MOXF6 and the Yamaha MOTIF that we have previously featured on the channel!

4. YAMAHA MODX SOUND DEMO - BoBeats

A sound demo of the Yamaha MODX!

And the official press release:

"Yamaha MODX Incorporates Flagship Technology into a Lightweight, Affordable Line of Synthesizers

NEW YORK, N.Y. (September 14, 2018) — Yamaha today unveiled the MODX - a line of compact, lightweight, hybrid synthesizers inspired by flagship Yamaha synth technology to offer dynamic, expressive music-making at an affordable price.

This successor to the popular Yamaha MOXF line will be available in three models – MODX6 (61 semi-weighted keys), MODX7 (76 semi-weighted keys) and MODX8 (88 weighted and graded keys) – to fit the needs of synth players, keyboardists and pianists alike.

The power of the MODX offers musicians unlimited potential to create their own unique sound. The MODX sound engine draws on the same technology powering the flagship MONTAGE synth: AWM2 (Advanced Wave Memory 2) sample and synthesis engine plus a pure FM-X (Frequency Modulation) synthesizer modernized for dynamic synthesis and complex sound design. The MODX also incorporates Motion Control, a highly programmable control matrix for dynamic sound interaction. This gives musicians unparalleled ability to direct and manipulate their sound by interacting with their Performances in fine detail.

The MODX expands on the MOXF by offering a wide array of control and workflow elements. Seamless Sound Switching has been introduced in the tradition of MONTAGE to allow switching between Performances without any sound cutoff. MODX has DSP power with up to 13 simultaneous dual insertion effects and 3 system/master effects. MODX polyphony has been increased to 128 notes of stereo AWM2 (sample-based) plus 64 FM-X (Frequency Modulation synthesis.) The control panel now includes four faders, multi-function Super Knob and a touchscreen display.

At the same time, the MODX is housed in a lightweight body that makes it easy to carry to sessions, gigs and rehearsals. Also, like its predecessor, the MODX comes bundled with Steinberg Cubase AI DAW software for creating and producing music on the computer.

Synth players and sound designers will appreciate the deep programmability of Motion Control and the MODX FM-X synth engine. The versatility of the MODX and the wealth of onboard keyboard, synth, brass and strings sounds will appeal to keyboardists needing a wide variety of sounds, and 88 weighted-action keys, designed with the benefit of over 125 years of Yamaha piano craftsmanship and over 40 years of synth innovation, will suit any pianist.
“MODX sets a new standard for mid-range synthesizer sound, control and mobility,” said Nate Tschetter, marketing manager, Yamaha Synthesizers. “With advanced flagship technology in a lightweight, accessible package, MODX excels on stage, in the studio and in a wide array of creative situations.”

Pricing and Availability
The Yamaha MODX6 (MSRP $1,649), MODX7 (MSRP $1,899) and MODX8 (MSRP $2,399) are scheduled to ship September 27.
For more information, please visit http://4wrd.it/MODX"

Search for Yamaha MODX below for more.

Moog Semi Modular Ecosystem ft. the Grandmother + DFAM Giveaway Event at Control Voltage

via Control Voltage

"Moog Semi Modular Ecosystem ft. the Grandmother + DFAM Giveaway

This Wednesday, August 15th

The family tree of Moog’s semi-modular eurorack-compatible ecosystem just got larger. Spend an evening with Steve Maass & Nate Marino from Moog Music Inc. and get an in-depth presentation on the new, Grandmother semi-modular keyboard synthesizer. Learn tips and tricks that make the Grandmother a powerhouse for the eurorack environment, and how to use the Mother-32 & DFAM together with the new Grandmother.

Then, stick around for a cool giveaway… One lucky event participant will go home with a new DFAM!

Plus, hang with the Control Voltage & Moog crew for food & drinks, and make some sounds in a DFAM Drum Circle!"

Yamaha Introduces MONTAGE V2.5

Published on Jul 30, 2018 Yamaha Corporation

"MONTAGE OS v2.5 adds new sound, control and workflow enhancements to the MONTAGE music synthesizer."

Update: and the official press release:

"Yamaha MONTAGE OS v2.5 Adds New Sounds, Enhanced Control, DAW Remote Function to Flagship Synthesizer

BUENA PARK, Calif. (July 31, 2018) — Yamaha today released MONTAGE OS version 2.5, the fifth free firmware update to its flagship synthesizer line. The update further expands the MONTAGE sound, control and workflow features with the biggest enhancement being the new DAW Remote functionality.

MONTAGE OS v2.5 now includes all the original MOTIF XF Performances, bringing the total number of MONTAGE preset Performances to 2,655. Each of the MOTIF XF Performances has been updated for MONTAGE with new Super Knob programming and Audition demos for more creative possibilities. From the beginning, MONTAGE contained all of the MOTIF XF Voice content. This update gives MONTAGE all of the same sound content that’s in MOTIF XF, along with the all-new, multi-gigabyte sized MONTAGE AWM2 and FM-X content.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Yamaha Expands Soundmondo Sound-Sharing Website to Include MONTAGE Content

Published on May 9, 2018 Synthtopia

"At Superbooth 2018, Yamaha's Blake Angelos gave us a quick update on Soundmondo, and its new support for the Montage synthesizer."

And the press release:

BUENA PARK, Calif. (May 3, 2018) – Yamaha is expanding Soundmondo, the groundbreaking social sound-sharing website originally conceived for sharing reface Mobile Mini Keyboard sounds. Soundmondo now supports the MONTAGE Music Synthesizer, broadening its technological and user base to include an immense source of content.

Since launching in 2015, Soundmondo users created over 20,000 free reface sounds online. Now, MONTAGE users have the ability to explore and share new content of their own on a daily basis. To launch this new branch of the network, Yamaha produced 400 MONTAGE Performances, including content from the original DX ROM Cartridges, special content from Yamaha Music Europe and 16 original Performances from legendary synthesizer sound designer Richard Devine. Along with the content, Soundmondo is free for all MONTAGE users.

Soundmondo makes it possible to organize Performances into set lists, add demo audio/video and discover new pieces made by the global music-making community. All content is accessible via Google Chrome or the newly-launched Soundmondo (formerly “reface Soundmondo”) iOS app.

The MONTAGE Music Synthesizer, introduced in 2016 and enhanced with four major OS updates since then, represents a new era in synthesizer technology, offering unprecedented levels of control in sound and workflow.
“Soundmondo is to sound what photo-sharing networks are to images,” says Nate Tschetter, marketing manager, Synthesizers, Yamaha Corporation of America. “It’s a great way to share your sound experiences and get inspiration from others.”

For more information, visit http://4wrd.it/soundmondo

Yamaha Joins with Allihoopa to Give TENORI-ON Musicians the Optimal Sharing Experience

The press release:

"BUENA PARK, Calif. (March 13, 2018) – Yamaha has partnered with social network Allihoopa, empowering users of the Yamaha TNR mobile music-making apps to share their work and collaborate online.

The two iOS apps make up the mobile version of the Yamaha TENORI-ON, the groundbreaking electronic musical instrument. These apps allow intuitive music creation via a simple, user-friendly interface, without the need for specialized training.

The Allihoopa partnership allows musicians to collaborate with the world using a mobile device. TNR-iOS users create music using the original TNR-i and its electronic-music counterpart, TNR-e. Once they have a finished piece, they can “Drop” it and share directly with the Allihoopa community. From there, others can 'Pick Up' the track, add recording elements of their choosing and 'Drop' it back to Allihoopa for further collaboration.

'TNR-i and TNR-e users now have a new way to share and collaborate with others,' says Nate Tschetter, marketing manager, Music Production, Yamaha Corporation of America. 'Yamaha and Allihoopa encourage creativity by helping music-makers around the world share ideas and inspire each other.'

For more information about the iOS version of the world-renowned TENORI-ON, please visit http://4wrd.it/TENORI-ONIOS

For more information about Allihoopa, please visit https://allihoopa.com"

Tune-Yards - Look at Your Hands (Official Video) - Featuring the the DSI Tempest

Published on Oct 24, 2017 Tune-Yards

This one is not necessarily a synth demo, but considering how prominent the DSI Tempest is featured, I thought it deserved a post. Also, I thought it was kind of cool that there is a credit for "modular synth" in the description for the video below. I remember the first time I heard this song in the background while posting away. About a minute in, I was like, "what the heck am I listening to?!" It was like the bizarre thoughts that go through your mind right before you fall asleep. Some of the other tracks on the album are like that as well. This track and some others grew on me. Regardless of our musical tastes, the Tune-Yards are great musicians and the production quality of the album is top notch.

"'Look at Your Hands' by Tune-Yards. New album 'I can feel you creep into my private life' is released January 19th 2018: http://smarturl.it/TYICFYCIMPL

Video by Michael Speed
Footage by Marisa Gesualdi & Jennifer Sommer
Additional photos by Nate Brenner, Ginger Fierstein and Merrill Garbus

Nate Brenner (bass, sequences, modular synth)
Michael Coleman (synth solo, crazy keys, bleeps/bloops)
Merrill Garbus (vocals, MPC and other drum programming, keys)
Maryam Qudus (vocals)
Jason Slota (drums)
Beau Sorenson (drum machine processing, vocal effects)
John Vanderslice (vocals)
Engineered by Beau Sorenson at Tiny Telephone Oakland
Mixed by Mikaelin 'Blue' BlueSpruce at Lounge Studios NY

La la la la la la la look at your hands, your hands
LOOK, la la look at your hands, your hands
Look at all the objects in your hands your hands
La la look at your hands, your

CLICK FOR MORE »

Rediscovering The 'Lost' Yamaha CS-80

Published on Jan 30, 2018 Synthtopia

"At the 2018 NAMM Show, Yamaha had an amazing piece of synth history at their booth, a CS-80 in mint condition.

Yamaha's Nate Tschetter gave us a quick demo of the rare synthesizer, an overview of the CS-80's architecture, and told us the story of rediscovering the instrument."

Yamaha Introduces Montage 2.0 OS Update Featuring MOTIF Compatibility & More

Published on Jan 25, 2018 Yamaha Corporation

"Yamaha MONTAGE OS Version 2.0 Adds MOTIF Compatibility, New Control and Workflow Enhancements

ANAHEIM (January 25, 2018) — Yamaha today released MONTAGE OS version 2.0, the fourth free firmware update to its flagship synthesizer line. Yamaha has continuously updated MONTAGE with new content as well as sound, control and workflow enhancements. Now, MONTAGE OS v2.0 adds full Voice and Performance compatibility with recent MOTIF series instruments, additional control and workflow improvements.

MONTAGE adds full Voice and Performance compatibility with the Yamaha MOTIF XF, MOTIF XS and MOXF music production synthesizers. The MOTIF family dominated the music production synthesizer world for over 15 years. Now, MOTIF users can have confidence that their favorite sounds will load seamlessly into MONTAGE and perform without a hitch.

MONTAGE users have always been able to employ the free FM Converter web app at yamahasynth.com/fmconverter to convert DX7, DX7II, TX816 and TX802 Voices and Performances to MONTAGE Performances. Coupled with the Advanced Wave Memory 2 sound engine in MONTAGE and compatibility with legacy MOTIF content, musicians now have access to the largest and most established hardware synthesizer sound library in the world — a sonic palette that has been expanding and developing for over 35 years.

User-friendliness is essential in both modern studio and live-gig rigs, and MONTAGE OS v2.0 makes it easier to assign synth parameters to controllers such as the knobs, faders and Super Knob. For example, moving any physical controller now immediately shows destinations on the Controller Overview page. Several other workflow enhancements make it easier for musicians to interact with the vast MONTAGE Motion Control Synthesis.

Additional new features include a global setting for the A/D (external audio) input, which overrides the setting at the Performance level. This is useful for gigs or sessions where the player is using the input for the same purpose across all Performances. MONTAGE OS v2.0 also adds 87 new Performances, further expanding the amazing onboard content.

'With its absolute realism across acoustic and electronic Voice categories, plus the FM-X engine and extensive control and modulation options rivaling modular synths, MONTAGE was already the most powerful and versatile synthesizer in the world when it launched,' said Nate Tschetter, marketing manager, Yamaha Music Production. 'With OS v2.0, MONTAGE advances even further ahead of any other synthesizer in terms of sound, control and workflow.'

Pricing and Availability

Yamaha MONTAGE OS v2.0 is a free update and will be available to all MONTAGE users February 07, 2018.

For more information, visit the Yamaha Booth at the 2018 NAMM Show in the Anaheim Marriott Hotel, Marquis Ballroom, January 25-28, 2018, or http://4wrd.it/MONTAGE"

Prophet '08 Soft Strings

Published on Oct 9, 2017 Sacred Synthesis

"I've been focusing on the Poly Evolvers for a full nine months now. I deliberately did so while the Prophet Rev2 fervor was at its height, and now that it's slowly passing, I thought I'd return to the Prophet '08.

Somewhat in imitation of the 'Soft Strings' piece I did on the Prophet 12, I thought I'd begin with the Prophet '08's version of the same patch. This sound uses the usual Keyboard-Module pairing and panning at the mixer for stereo breadth and depth. Only one keyboard was used, and every note is Prophet '08 except the bass, which is, as usual, the Evolver Desktop controlled by the Hammond Pedalboard.

By the way, the photographs used throughout this channel were all taken by my wife. These are the glorious local places that we weekly walk or hike in western Massachusetts. The present picture was taken just this afternoon, on a humid drizzly Columbus Day, as the remnants of the hurricane "Nate" passed through the area.

Instrumentation:
DSI Prophet '08 Keyboard
DSI Prophet '08 Module

Bass:
DSI Evolver Desktop
Hammond XPK 200L Pedalboard

External Effects:
Lexicon MX300 for reverb

Performed and mixed live and recorded directly to a Tascam CD-RW900 Mk II.

ALL MUSIC PROPERTY OF SACRED SYNTHESIS 2017"

Yamaha Announces Chick Corea Mark V Sound Set for MONTAGE

"Chick Corea Mark V Sample & Performance Library for MONTAGE Now Available as Free Download

BUENA PARK, Calif. (May 24, 2017) — Today, Yamaha announced the Chick Corea Mark V Sample & Performance Library for MONTAGE. This library features 16 all-new Performances, each programmed using data meticulously sampled from Chick Corea’s customized Mark V electric piano. This library is available as a free download from yamahamusicsoft.com for users of the company’s MONTAGE synthesizer.
​In 1984, renowned pianist Chick Corea worked with Harold Rhodes in the creation of the Stage 73 Mark V electric piano. Over the next ten years, Corea and his team developed what they called the Number One – replacing hammers, developing custom electronics and creating an instrument that reflected the singular talent and innovation of its owner.
​In 2009, after enduring years of pounding from one of modern music’s most innovative composers and performers, the keyboard became too fragile to take on the
road. Before being shipped into storage, however, Corea and his tech team painstakingly sampled every note at Mad Hatter Studios in Los Angeles. After months of searching for the right technology platform, Corea took the massive amount of data to industry-leading sound designers, who developed Chick’s Mark V Sample Library for the Yamaha MOTIF XF, the predecessor to the MONTAGE.
​“MONTAGE users can now incorporate a piece of musical history into their own synthesizers at no cost,” said Nate Tschetter, product marketing manager, Music Production, Yamaha Corporation of America. “These custom Performances let you experience Chick’s unique Mark V coupled with the expressiveness of MONTAGE.”
​Corea’s direct involvement in the process makes this sampling session unique. A specially developed vorsetzer player-piano mechanism helped capture pristinely balanced velocities across the entire keyboard scale. The library contains all the original samples recorded in the meticulously engineered sampling sessions, and consists of 12 unlooped velocity layers and note offs. The full, natural sustain of each note is carefully maintained.
​Part of what makes this collection unique is the custom hammer and pre-amp
configuration of Chick’s original electronic piano instrument. At F# above Middle C, Corea and his team modified the hammers from the standard neoprene to wood, and sent the signal from those keys to a separate pre-amp with a specially designed EQ. This creates an almost split keyboard effect letting the treble notes ring with a clarity and punch unavailable on a standard Mark V. Chick’s Mark V loads directly into the MONTAGE integrated flash memory.

Pricing and Availability
The Chick Corea Mark V Sample & Performance Library is currently available to all MONTAGE users as a free download. This library requires a Yamaha MONTAGE synthesizer running MONTAGE OS v1.51 or higher.
For more information, visit http://4wrd.it/COREAMONTAGELIBRARY"

Yamaha Introduces MX Series w/ FM Essential iOS App Integration for MX BK/BU Series

Published on Jul 21, 2016 Yamaha Corporation

iTunes: FM Essential - US - Yamaha Corporation of America

"With your MX49 BK/BU/WH or MX61 BK/BU/WH connected to the iPhone or iPad, you can use all internal voices and also store them."

Note the MX88 is new.

Playlist:
Yamaha Music Synthesizer MX BK/BU Series Official Movie
FM Essential Introduction
iOS Application FM Essential Voice demo
Introducing the MX88 music synthesizer
Yamaha MX88 with FM Essential Artist Interview

Update: one more not yet in the playlist:

How to unlock the YAMAHA FM Essential iOS app

Published on Apr 20, 2017 Yamaha Corporation

Update: And the official press release:

"Yamaha Expands MX Series with 88-Key, Weighted-Action MX88, Combining Synth Features and Real Piano Feel

BUENA PARK, Calif. (April 20, 2017) – Yamaha today announced the MX88, the latest addition to its popular MX line of synthesizers for stage and studio.

Equipped with 88 weighted keys, the MX88 represents the logical extension of the MX line, known for its high-quality instrument and synth sounds, deep computer and iOS integration, and with this introduction, a full-size keyboard featuring realistic piano action.

Connection to both Windows and Mac computers is a breeze, thanks to a class-compliant, bi-directional USB audio/MIDI interface. Players can record the keyboard’s superb internal sounds into a computer-based DAW and monitor the computer’s output through the keyboard’s ¼" audio outputs or headphone jack.

The comprehensive sound collection of the MX88 is based on the legendary Yamaha Motif sound engine, and contains everything from synthesizer leads, pads and more to authentic acoustic instrument sounds. The realistic Concert Grand Piano sound has been optimized for the MX88 keyboard to provide the highest level of expression.

'The MX88 will appeal to players who need the touch and feel of a real piano with 88 weighted-action keys,' said Nate Tschetter, product marketing manager, Music Production, Yamaha Corporation of America. 'Now, any keyboardist can take advantage of the computer and iOS integration and superb Motif sound that distinguish the MX line in the market. And like the MX49/61 BK/BU, MX88 unlocks FM Essential – a free FM synthesizer iOS app. This provides the great sounds inside MX88 along with the pure FM synthesis Yamaha made famous.'

Other key features on the MX88 include:

A full selection of VCM effects
Easy Split/Layer Performance Mode
16-part Multi timbral operation and 128-note polyphony
Extensive hands-on control for VSTs and DAWs
A software bundle that includes Steinberg Cubase AI
Between its comprehensive design, 88-key weighted-action keyboard and affordable price, the MX88 will appeal not only to professional musicians, but also to the educational and worship markets.

Pricing and Availability

The MX88 will be available at authorized Yamaha piano retailers starting April 20, 2017, with an MSRP of $1,299.00

For further information, visit http://4wrd.it/YAMAHAMX88"

Yamaha MONTAGE Firmware Update v1.5

via Yamaha

"Yamaha MONTAGE Firmware Update Improves Sound and Control, Supercharges Workflow in Iconic Synthesizer Line

ANAHEIM (January 19, 2017) — Yamaha today released the second free firmware update (v1.5) to its popular line of MONTAGE synthesizers. The update adds features that enhance the instrument’s sound, dynamic control and workflow.

MONTAGE is the latest flagship synthesizer from Yamaha. With over 40 years of innovation, MONTAGE takes sound, control and workflow to a new high. OS v1.5 adds both new features and new content to inspire musicians more. Plus, it's a free download for all MONTAGE owners.

The new OS improves the Rotary Speaker effect and adds new organ Performances. New dynamic processor effects provide even more tonal character and dynamic control.

Control enhancements provide even more ways to use the Assignable buttons and Super Knob. With the OS update, they now carry more linkage options for players’ creative parameters. Improved Auto Beat Sync lets MONTAGE players jam with live drums or tracks. External MIDI Scene control is now possible, perfect for use with Ableton Live. Additionally, users can create or recall Favorites with the press of a button. A new Performance View feature allows visualization of split points, layers and more.

New workflow features allow even easier Part copy and navigation. Players are better able to control and track USB audio input volume. An improved backup file system lets users store and recall all their data in a single file.
“MONTAGE is a great synthesizer for all kinds of users. If you need amazing imitative instruments like pianos and strings, you’ve got it. If you need super-deep synthesis and controllability, you’ve got that too. Tie it together with an intuitive user interface and you have an instrument that serves a lot of needs.” said Nate Tschetter, marketing manager, music production, Yamaha Corporation of America. “The latest OS makes MONTAGE that much more powerful. We can’t wait to hear the music people make with it!”

Pricing and Availability
Yamaha MONTAGE Firmware v1.5 is a free update currently available to all MONTAGE users."

Alisa 1387 soviet synthesizer tracks

Published on Jul 5, 2016 Guseyn G

"Alisa 1387 soviet synthesizer tracks

The entire EP was recorded by me exclusively using just Alisa 1387 soviet synthesizer (including drums and percussions) with hardware effects.
Everything was played by hand/multitracked via Alisa's CV trigger/gate using Kenton Pro Solo and recorded into a sequencer.

Altavox - Submergence EP
Quality: 192 kbps mp3

Tracklist:
1 - Coral Echoes (00:00)
2 - Immersion (05:15)
3 - Nate's Shelfish Dub (09:27)
4 - Submarinba (14:39)
5 - Ocean Floor Dwellers (18:42)

Original underwater image is a courtesy of Roberto Catanzaro:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/robycat/:

NAMM: New Yamaha Montage AWM2 & FM-X Synthesizers

Update: cleaned this post up a little (note below).

Another one in via Soviet Space Child via this site. Scan via sequencer.de.

"Yamaha Montage Synth, Based On Entirely New Technology

YAMAHA’S NEW MONTAGE synth offers unprecedented ways for keyboard players to control and interact with sound.

For more than 40 years, Yamaha has developed industry-leading synthesiz-ers, from the revolutionary DX7 in the 1980s to the renowned Motif series, one of the best-selling synthesizers of all time. The Montage, available in 61-, 76-, and 88-key configurations, features the Motion Control Synthesizer Engine, a powerful and intuitive way to interact with and control sound.

The Motion Control Synthesizer Engine controls two iconic Sound Engines: Advanced Wave Memory 2 (AWM2) and FM-X. Compatible with previous generation Motif libraries, the AWM2 engine is exponentially more powerful than the previous Motif XF flagship with nearly ten times more wave memory, integrated flash, double the effects, and twice the polyphony. Joining the powerful AWM2 engine is FM-X. A sophisticated pure FM (Frequency Modulation) synthesizer engine is capable of producing classic ‘80s or cutting-edge EDM sound with excellent dynamic range, power, and fidelity.

Montage also features a brand new user interface with color touch screen, endless rotary encoders and the Super Knob: a macro control allowing users to control multiple parameters simultane-ously.

‘Montage is the culmination of over forty years of synthesizer legacy and innovation,’ said Nate Tschetter, mar-keting manager, music production, Yamaha Corporation of America. ‘Playing and experiencing Montage is, quite simply, inspiring.’

Anaheim Marriott Marquis Ballroom http://4wrd.it/Montage

Yamaha’s Montage con-tains two discrete sound engines for expanded tonal flexibility."



Update: A quick note on the evolution of this post. As typically happens, stuff gets sent in, I parse it, post it, and then updates come in. Below is the original blob of text I was confronted with from the source site. This was before the scans went up. It appears the source site did a bad copy and paste of the article and jumbled sections out of order. Imagine reading it first. Some of you did and got to enjoy my experience. For those that didn't here you go. A Tacky what?

"NEW PRODUCTS Yamaha Montage Synth, Based On Entirely New Technology user interface with color touch screen, endless rotary encoders and the Super Knob: a macro control allowing users to control multiple parameters simultane-ously. “Montage is the culmination of over forty years of synthesizer legacy and innovation,” said Nate Tschetter, mar-keting manager, music production, Yamaha Corporation of America. “Playing and experiencing Montage is, quite simply, inspiring.” Anaheim Marriott Marquis Ballroom http://4wrd.it/Montage Yamaha’s Montage con-tains two discrete sound engines for expanded tonal flexibility. VATER TACKY SACK VATER PERCUSSION’S new Tacky Sack Grip Enhancer, the first product of its kind to be marketed to the drumming world, features a sack of grip-enhancing rosin powder that absorbs moisture and provides drummers additional control of their drumsticks while performing in humid and sweaty conditions. Gently “clapping” hands on the Tacky Sack applies rosin powder to the palms. A cord is included to hang Tacky Sack from a snare drum, stick bag, or hard-ware. “Once again, Vater knows just what I need, even before I do,” said Slipknot’s Jay Weinberg. “Especially in intense, sweaty environments, Tacky Sack allows me to lose myself in the vibe of a song without worrying if I’m going to send a stick flying from my palms. My grip relaxes, and I’m better able to avoid carpal tunnel-like problems. Tacky Sack lets me thrash with com-plete control.” Marilyn Manson’s Gil Sharone added, GRIP ENHANCER YAMAHA’S NEW MONTAGE synth offers unprecedented ways for keyboard players to control and interact with sound. For more than 40 years, Yamaha has developed industry-leading synthesiz-ers, from the revolutionary DX7 in the 1980s to the renowned Motif series, one of the best-selling synthesizers of all time. The Montage, available in 61-, 76-, and 88-key configurations, features the Motion Control Synthesizer Engine, a powerful and intuitive way to interact with and control sound. The Motion Control Synthesizer Engine controls two iconic Sound Engines: Advanced Wave Memory 2 (AWM2) and FM-X. Compatible with previous generation Motif libraries, the AWM2 engine is exponentially more powerful than the previous Motif XF flagship with nearly ten times more wave memory, integrated flash, double the effects, and twice the polyphony. Joining the powerful AWM2 engine is FM-X. A sophisticated pure FM (Frequency Modulation) synthesizer engine is capable of producing classic ‘80s or cutting-edge EDM sound with excellent dynamic range, power, and fidelity. Montage also features a brand new Vater Tacky Sack Grip Enhancer. 224 MUSIC TRADES February 2016"

Update: and a slightly longer one on YouTube sent my way via Soviet Space Child:


MONTAGE is coming soon Published on Jan 15, 2016 yamahacorporation

"Yamaha flagship Synthesizer MONTAGE is coming soon"

And some pics via Soviet Space Child:

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