Monthly Archives: January 2018

NAMM 2018: Montage 2.0

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Check out the obligatory Yamaha video which summarizes the OS 2.0 update. Also, catch Yamaha’s Blake Angelos in the Sonicstate video. [Hold that camera steady, dude!] Catch Blake (again) in the Ask.Audio video — wormholes in the sonic universe. Gratefully, there isn’t too much background noise behind either interview and Blake is still fresh!

Sample Robot Pro Montage Edition is a tool to capture the sounds of your vintage keyboards. (Check the Sample Robot site, too.) It sends MIDI notes to the vintage board and captures an audio sample for each note. Of course, it does this at different velocities making it easy to build velocity-switched voices. Hmmm, I’ll be looking at Sample Robot closely (once it’s released) to see if I can apply it to Genos™ and Yamaha Expansion Manager (YEM). Available in April 2018.

Another big addition to the Montage software ecosystem is the John Melas tool suite for Montage.

Read more about everything in the latest Yamaha/Easy Sounds Music Production Guide (PDF).

Quoting the Yamaha press release:

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.

Yamaha MONTAGE OS v2.0 is a free update that will become available to all MONTAGE users on February 7.

This is big news for Montage folks!

NAMM 2018: And now Yamaha

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Yamaha have revamped nearly every model in its previous digital and arranger keyboard line:

  • PSR-S975 Arranger Workstation (MSRP: $2,599 USD)
  • PSR-S775 (MSRP: $1,699) Arranger Workstation
  • PSR-EW410 (MSRP: $599) adds Quick Sampling function – 5 samples (1 Key Follow type + 4 One shot/Loop type) 9.6 sec/sample (maximum) – and Groove Creator
  • PSR-E463 (MSRP: $479) adds Quick Sampling and Groove Creator.
  • KS-SW100 Compact Subwoofer (MSRP: $199) targeted for home keyboard players.

The PSR-S775 and PSR-S975 were announced a few weeks before the NAMM show. The all important Owner’s Manual, Reference Manual and Data List are now available for each model. These documents are very helpful when making purchase or upgrade decisions.

Yamaha are featuring the entire digital and arranger workstation line at Winter NAMM 2018, including the rather wonderful Genos flagship and the lower mid-range PSR-S670. Musicians looking for a MOXF successor will just have to wait a little bit longer.

Copyright © 2018 Paul J. Drongowski

NAMM 2018: Spin me ’round

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Aside from the teased iRig Stomp I/O, IK Multimedia are offering the official Leslie® collections for AmpliTube and T-RackS. What makes it “official,” I suppose is the co-branding with Hammond USA and Suzuki Music Corporation of Japan. You get 5 amp and 6 cabinet simulators with can be used in AmpliTube and T-RackS. [This capitalization is annoying.]

The AmpliTube and T-RackS Leslie collection are $99.99 USD each (pre-order price). Get ’em both for $149.99 USD (pre-order price).

Will we finally see the Teenage Engineering PO-33 KO Pocket Operator ($89 USD) and the PO-35 Speak Pocket Operator ($89 USD)? [Yes! See the update below.] Will we see the Yamaha VKB-100 Vocaloid keyboard? A Half-Monty to replace the MOXF? Montage enthusiasts may be disappointed to learn that “flagship digital workstation” in the recent Yamaha NAMM press release refers to the Genos. Don’t forget about the new PSR-S775 and PSR-S975 arranger workstations.

In case you missed it, the street price (MAP) for the Studiologic Numa Compact 2x is $699.95 USD.

Pipes is an upcoming Kickstarter project for a stand-alone, sample playin’ hardware module. It is the latest product from Synesthesia Corp. Synesthesia will be showing off their work at NAMM 2018. It’s in the prototype stage.

That’s a seven inch touch screen in the mock-up image. [Click image to enlarge.] Small it’s not.

Update: The Teenage Engineering metal series

Teenage Engineering updated their site after Winter NAMM 2018 opened. The PO-35 Speak Pocket Operator and the PO-33 K.O! are part of the new metal series The third member of the series is the PO-32 Tonic drum synthesizer and sequencer ($89 USD)..

The PO-35 Speak ($89 USD) has a built-in microphone which lets you sample your voice or whatever (up to 120 seconds of sampling time). Once sampled, you can apply effects, transpose and so forth to mangle the sound.

The PO-33 K.O! ($89) is a micro-sampler. It also has a built-in microphone. Sampling time is 40 seconds. Seems like the main difference is that the PO-33 is melodic while the PO-35 is vocal. What does that really mean anyway? Just sample away and make beats!

Copyright © 2018 Paul J. Drongowski

NAMM 2018: Rainin’ tonewheels

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In addition to the Dexibell S9 flagship stage piano and the Studiologic Numa Compact 2x, Nord have announced the Electro 6.

The NE6 continues the Nord tradition by adding more memory (512MB sample memory) and functionality: Seamless transitions, 3-part multi-timbral, extended synth voice polyphony, two pipe organ models, and dual organ mode. Up to six split points with split point crossfade capability.

The Nord Electro 6 will be available in three (familiar) models: Electro 6D 61, Electro 6D 73 and Electro 6 HP.

It’s still red. No pricing yet.

NAMM 2018: Ain’t kiddin’ around

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“It’s a music toy. It’s a synthesizer. Actually, it’s both.” With an integrated drum machine.

The Playtime Engineering Blipblox looks like a modern-age version of the busy-box that I built for our son way back when. (Importantly, without sharp edges and other hazards.)

Specs include:

  • MIDI input for an external keyboard or sequencer controller.
  • Eight unique oscillator modulation schemes.
  • One Low Pass Filter.
  • Two Envelope Generators.
  • Two LFOs.
  • 3-in/3-out modulation matrix.

MIDI input, for pity’s sake! How many pro-sumer fun boxes have left this essential feature out?

Playtime Engineering make references to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) and algorithms because there is a logical signal flow as suggested by the arrows on the front panel. I don’t think young kids have the mental development to grasp such abstract concepts, preferring concrete manipulation instead. (What would Piaget think of this?)

Playtime Engineering describe product status as “In manufacturing now.” No price yet.

Just wait until the little tike can’t find that groovy patch, again! Sound familiar?

Too many questions? I’m under-caffeinated.

Copyright © 2018 Paul J. Drongowski

NAMM 2018: The ‘wheels roll out

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The teased Dexibell keyboard is the Dexibell S9 flagship stage piano. It combines the Combo J7’s tonewheel engine with Dexibell’s piano technology. Features include:

  • 88 weighted keys
  • Nine motorized faders
  • Over 100 preset sounds
  • 320 oscillators
  • Extra long piano samples
  • 3GBytes memory for preset and user sounds and samples
  • Bluetooth, USB to Host (MIDI), USB to Device (memory), digital audio I/O
  • 128 x 64 pixel organic LED display

The motorized faders should make drawbar players happy. The “catch” operation of the Genos (and other instruments) makes live drawbar adjustments jumpy. The motorized faders also mean “this thing ain’t gonna be cheap.”

It’s just rainin’ tonewheels up in here. The Numa Compact 2x is a new addition to the Studiologic Numa Compact family. The Compact 2x has three sound engines: piano, tonewheel organ and Sledge synthesis. Sample memory is 1GBytes. The Compact 2x has nine drawbar sliders. The Compact 2x also does audio over USB. Like the rest of the Compact line, the 2x is light: 7kg (15.4 pounds). Inclusion of Sledge synthesis is really exciting. The Compacts have been reasonably priced, so I can’t wait to see the asking price for the 2x.

[Update: The street price (MAP) for the Numa Compact 2x is $699.95 USD.]

Copyright © 2018 Paul J. Drongowski

NAMM 2018: Today’s catch

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Terrada Music Score is launching the GVIDO electronic paper dual screen score reader. Basically, it’s a dual screen (13.3-inch) tablet and stylus. The low-reflection display mimics paper and if the real thing is as good as the photo on their web site, it looks fabulous. The GVIDO stores PDF music scores. Terrada Music Score has a content agreement with Hal Leonard, who sell and provide scores. Internal memory is 8GBytes, has a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, and is 660g light. Ain’t cheap: $1,600USD.

I like the two page display and PDF compatibility. Most of the lead sheets that I read are two pages. I hate page turns and haven’t got the hang of using a foot controller for this purpose.

Check out the Jamboxx hands-free MIDI wind controller ($399 MSRP). It looks like an harmonica and mounts in a bracket. Would Dylan use one?

Korg are also announcing a limited edition Korg Minilogue with a polished gray finish. The rear wooden panel is dark ash. I like the sound of the Minilogue, BTW. So many toys, so little money, so little time.

For readers who are grandparents, Schoenhut are releasing a 30-key tiny grand and a 25-key table-top piano. Hook ’em up to either iOS or Android.

Mukikim have a mini electronic drum kit for kids. The kit has color-coded drum pads (five drums, four cymbals, plus hi-hat/bass pedals). The color-coding takes the player through basic rhythms.

Get the tikes started early! Have your grandchildren drive your own kids crazy! Pay-back!

Copyright © 2018 Paul J. Drongowski

Winter NAMM 2018: More fun toys

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The closer we get to Winter NAMM 2018, the closer we get to nerd-vana.

A few fun toys worth a look…

Korg have been busy:

  • The prologue polyphonic analogue synthesizer
  • The volca mix analogue performance mixer
  • The KR-55 Pro rhythm machine ($299.99)
  • The Konnect portable stereo PA system ($399 street)
  • The D1 digital piano ($799.99 street)
  • And a raft of accessories (tuners, metronome, etc.)

It’s all there on the Korg Web site.

The prologue comes in 49- and 61-key models. I like the portability of 49 keys although the 49 ($1,499.99 USD street) is eight voices while the 61 ($1,999.99 USD street) is 16 voices. The industrial design looks quite appealing and inviting — can’t wait to actually try one.

Although I don’t own any modules in the volca range, the volca mix ($169.99 USD street) would make a very useful table-top utility module for analog experiments. In addition to a three channel mixer, the volca mix provides three 9V DC output jacks, tempo control and sync, and two stereo speakers. Would combine nicely with littleBits. (littleBits, I haven’t forgot ya. I’m just flat out of time!)

The Sonicware ELZ_1 compact synth is in the “too cool for school” category. It has multiple sound engines: FM, 8-bit wave memory synthesis, DNA Explorer (a waveform extractor and mangler), granular, standard oscillator and low-bit oscillator.

The ELZ_1 keys are dinky chicklets, but it’s really about small size and portability (15.7″ x 5.2″ x 1.8″, 2.2lbs, 4 AA batteries, built-in speaker). It doesn’t have 5-pin MIDI which is a shame, because with its small size, it would be great to MIDI it up with a full-size controller. (The world needs a $10 self-contained USB-B to 5-pin MIDI converter.) No word on price.

Nintendo are going maker — a nifty idea for extending the Nintendo Switch beyond gaming. Nintendo Labo kits are very low cost (cardboard!) maker kits. The Variety Kit includes a cardboard, Switch-driven toy piano. Teachers need to pick up on this one.

Copyright © 2018 Paul J. Drongowski

Winter NAMM 2018: Melo Audio MIDI Commander

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OK, OK, I know about the Arturia MiniBrute 2 and Moog Drummer From Another Mother — and so do you. 🙂

You may not have heard about the Melo Audio MIDI Commander, which was teased last year. Melo Audio’s teaser targets guitar players, but this ten button foot controller might appeal to keyboard players who need to make fast patch changes and so forth.

In addition to ten foot switches, the MIDI Commander has two expression pedal inputs. “Fusion mode” combines program change (PC) and control change (CC) MIDI messages. (We’ll have to wait for the documentation to find out what’s really going on here.) The MIDI Commander is compact (286mm x 110mm x 60mm, 11.3″ x 4.3″ x 2.4″), can run on two AAA batteries and has an OLED display.

The “Coming soon” page for the MIDI Commander shows a preproduction mock-up. I’d love to know if good ole 5-pin MIDI is included. Could be an alternative to the Yamaha MFC-10.

Speaking of teasers, Hammond are teasing a new model in the SK series of clones, the SKX.

Also, Dexibell are teasing a new organ: tone wheel (including pedal), Farfisa, Vox and pipe organ (upper, lower, pedal). An extension to the COMBO J line?

Another new product on the way is the Dexibell Vivo S7 Module which incorporates the sounds of the Dexibell Vivo S7 Digital Piano.

Copyright © 2018 Paul J. Drongowski

Right on the heels of Genos

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Yamaha are announcing two new models in the arranger workstation line: The PSR-S975 and the PSR-S775

The PSR-S975 is an update to the current PSR-S970. New features include:

  • Half bar fill-in
  • Mono legato operation
  • Store and recall of Live Control settings in registration memory
  • More preset styles (523, up from 450)
  • More Super Articulation voices (140, up from 131)
  • More Live voices (99, up from 89)
  • Larger expansion memory (768MB, up from 512MB)
  • Expansion audio styles (128MB maximum)

Expansion packs like Euro Dance and Salsa are pre-installed. [Click image below to enlarge.]

Quoting the Yamaha Web site:

  • 1625 Voices, including Super Articulation Voices, Organ Flutes! Voices. 55 Drum/SFX kits, and 480 XG voices
  • 523 Styles, including 40 Audio Styles, 34 Session Styles, 15 DJ Styles and 3 Free Play
  • Half bar fill-in and Mono legato function
  • 768 MB on-board memory for expansion data
  • Mic/Guitar input for use when singing or collaborating with other performers
  • Vocal Harmony 2 and Synth Vocoder functions
  • Real Distortion and Real Reverb, with an intuitive effects interface
  • USB audio playback with time stretch, pitch shift, vocal cancel and MP3 lyrics display functions
  • External display capability

The PSR-S775 also received a modest refresh versus the PSR-S770.

Observations

I honestly didn’t expect to see a mid-range refresh this January (2018). Genos™ is barely launched in North America with Winter NAMM 2018 just two weeks away. Yamaha normally announces new arranger workstation products in the Fall. From the marketing point of view, it would have been shear madness to refresh the mid-range while launching Genos during Fall 2017.

I suspect that the refresh is in response to the new Korg Pa700 and Pa1000 mid-range arranger keyboards. Korg and Yamaha are really duking it out in these lucrative segments. The S975 and Pa1000 attract “pro-sumer” musicians and the very affordable S775 and Pa700 are near the magic $1000 USD sweet spot.

Fans expecting a “mini-Genos” will just have to wait. Genos is way too hot to spoil by releasing a mid-range model with Genos-like features. Having played and experienced Genos for nearly one month, the enormous difference in street price between S975 and Genos is (and must be!) justified by a wide gap in functionality and sound quality. Value proposition, folks, value proposition.

One must wonder if a similar product strategy will play out in Yamaha’s synthesizer product line. The MOXF is due for at least a refresh. Does Yamaha have a compelling reason to issue a “Half Monty” two years after the Montage launch? A MOXF refresh might be enough to keep customers interested and sales up given the workstation features (sequencing, sampling, …) left out of the Montage. Some change is due simply because Yamaha’s inventory of the old tone generator IC (SWP51L) must be getting low.

The S975 is probably a simple re-spin of the S970 hardware. Yamaha can ride the ONFI NAND flash memory curve for years to come without breaking a sweat. The switch to ONFI compatible memory makes it easy to drop a larger capacity device into the existing printed circuit board footprint.

I’m still trying to discern where Yamaha are going with audio styles. They do have their patent portfolio covering full audio styles. The S975 allocates 128MBytes for Audio Style Expansion. (The S775 does not.) The Genos has a comparable Audio Style Expansion capability which draws from its Internal Memory. My intuition says that something is afoot, but it’s easy to extend one’s expectations beyond the current hardware/software platform.

There are rumors of another Genos update in the works. As with all things Yamaha, we must wait and see. Fortunately, we have excellent instruments to keep us busy and entertained!

Copyright © 2018 Paul J. Drongowski