Monthly Archives: October 2023

Montage M: More early info?

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Congrats to Saul and the folks at Yamaha Musicians Forum for snagging leaked Yamaha Montage M specs. We won’t have to wait too much longer for details. Maybe next week’s Yamaha Tech Talk will explain all?

Caution is recommended at this stage. Some of the numbers in the leaked specs don’t add up for me and the grammar doesn’t read like smooth marketing-speak. The dealer — who is now in trouble with Yamaha — might have transmogrified the original specs while copying them to their Web site. For example, Yamaha usually state whether wave memory size is physical capacity or “converted to 16-bit linear format.” [The latter is their current practice.]

The polyphony spec looks a little off, too. Yamaha avoid specifying polyphony in terms of notes, knowing that it’s number of active elements that matter.

As to pricing, the leak claims:

  • Yamaha Montage M6: $3,999.99
  • Yamaha Montage M7: $4,499.00
  • Yamaha Montage M8X: $4,999.00

MSRP? MAP (street)? The cents aren’t consistently stated either. Perhaps another transcription error?

For $5,000, the M8X had better have piano features comparable to Yamaha’s best (VRM, Grand Expression, etc.) I’m primarily chasing a good piano playing experience, so my needs probably don’t match yours — and that’s cool. 🙂

Have fun. Exciting times!

Copyright © 2023 Paul J. Drongowski

Yamaha P-525 digital piano announced

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As predicted, the Yamaha portable digital piano line has a new flagship — the Yamaha P-525 — replacing the popular P-515.

Lucky for all of us, the price has not gone up. USA MAP is $1,600 USD ($2,000 MSRP). It is already appearing on retailer sites for pre-order.

The P-525 web page is up. Here are the improvements over the P-515 and a few extra highlights (for the impatient):

  • GrandTouch-S wooden (white) keys
  • Grand Expression Modeling
  • Registration memories
  • Bluetooth audio
  • USB to HOST (MIDI and audio)
  • Amplification: 2 x (20W + 6W)
  • Speakers: 2 x (Oval (12cm x 6 cm) + 2.5 cm (dome))
  • Sound Boost and adjustable EQ

A number of features carry over from the P-515: CFX and Bösendorfer Imperial featured pianos, binaural sampling (CFX only), VRM, and half damper pedal. The P-525 amplifiers got a small bump.

The big change is the GrandTouch-S keybed, replacing the NWX keybed. I really liked playing the P-515’s NWX. Here’s hoping that the P-525 has the same non-fatiguing action and key-to-sound connection. [I’m dying to try it.]

Giggers will truly welcome the registration memories and adjustable EQ. Now you’ll be able to store panel settings in the piano itself without resorting to the Yamaha Smart Pianist app. Nothing against Smart Pianist, but a tablet (or phone) is yet another thing to carry and set-up at the job.

The P-525 brought over the XG sound set and drum kits (480 voices and 18 drum/SFX kits). These are mainly used for MIDI file playback, but feel free to dip in. The P-525 adds four new effect types for specific voices (and cannot be selected by the Voice menu):

  • VCM EQ 501
  • CompDistortion
  • VintagePhaserStereo
  • StereoOverdrive

The new effect types bring the P-525 closer to CP88 territory although the P-525 still lacks several important stage piano features (zones, front panel gizmos to control effects in real time, etc., etc.)

The P-525 adds a few voices that make use of the new, voice-specific effect types:

  • Dance Grand (AP)
  • Old School Pf (AP)
  • Auto Pan EP (EP)
  • Dyno E.Piano (EP)

I noted inconsistencies in the MSB/LSB/PC numbers between the P-515 and P-525 (Data List PDF). I don’t know if these differences are significant. Perhaps Yamaha need to proofread the MIDI voice assignments? One PDF claims “1-128” numbering and the other PDF claims “0-127” numbering WRT program change numbers.

Also predicted, Yamaha have a new, portable triple pedal unit, the FC35. The FC35 plugs into the P-525 triple pedal port. The FC35 is compatible with other Yamaha digital pianos which implement the triple pedal port (e.g., DGX-670 and P-225). The FC35 retails for $100.

I’m going to call it a night and will take a close look at the Owner’s Manual tomorrow. Start browsing for deals on the P-515, if the 525 doesn’t float your boat!

Update (after a good night’s sleep)

I didn’t catch it last night, but the P-525 has an updated speaker box. Yamaha claim:

We also made significant improvements to the speaker boxes. Flared bass reflex ports and proprietary sound-absorbing tubes substantially reduce wind noise, vibration noise, and other excess noise, which helps to deliver a higher quality of sound.

The P-525 is also the first digital piano equipped with an FIR filter, which makes fine adjustments to the phase of the sound. This allows your audience to hear a naturally pleasing sound as you play.

I don’t think they’re lyin’ because I have not seen the FIR filter touted in other Yamaha digital piano blurbs.

The FIR filter is a digital crossover between the mid-range woofer and the tweeter. I haven’t reviewed it yet, but I’ve been playing through a Yamaha Stagepas 100BTR, which features a digital FIR crossover filter. It’s good stuff.

The P-525 adopts the registration memory scheme which should be familiar to Yamaha arranger people. The software engineers overloaded the “Piano Room” button with a REGIST operation, i.e., press and hold the button for registration operations. Use the arrow buttons to navigate to a bank, then press a (voice) button to select a registration within a bank. The bad news here is holding the REGIST button while hitting a second button to execute the selection. This would be an awkward gesture if you’re trying to change registration while playing.

The P-525 has a 3-band Master EQ (low, mid and high). You can select from three EQ presets or create your own USER setting. The Master EQ setting is saved in a registration along with a bunch of other important panel settings. Check the manual.

There is only one thing to bust Yamaha’s chops. The feature overview video demo claims “542 attractive voices.” The number is incorrect: 44 panel voices plus 480 XG voices is 524. Further, the 480 XG voices are really intended for MIDI file playback. There are some usable XG voices, but the entire lot of them smells like the 1990s. I laud the new AP/EP voices (and DSP effects), but C’mon man!

I have played the P-515 several times since my initial review. Each time, the P-515 left me favorably impressed. If the GrandTouch-S action is non-fatiguing and playable, the P-525 should be everybody’s serious candidate. You will get most of the benefits of a full-blown CLP in a quasi-portable package — $2,000 USD (street) for a slab, stand, bench and pedal unit. That’s excellent value.

Copyright © 2023 Paul J. Drongowski

The fair, the Princess and the unicorn

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Yamaha at Synthfest UK 2023

Yamaha have issued the following statement regarding their participation at Synthfest UK 2023 this weekend:

“Yamaha are looking forward to joining SynthFest UK this weekend to display a wide range of hands-on products along with Yamaha specialist staff to support any enquiries.

We will be exhibiting our recent releases including the CK Stage Keyboard Series and Finger Drum Pads, in addition to our more established MODX+, CP, YC and Reface ranges.

There has been much speculation regarding the launch of our successor to the flagship Montage synth which has been announced as an October release. To manage any expectations ahead of the show, we would like to clarify that unfortunately the timing of this new release means that it will not be featured at the show.

We look forward to seeing you all there.”

Princess

Celebrate Hatsune Miku’s 16th birthday with a special Steinberg UR12 MK16th edition audio interface and an MK16th-themed VKB-100 Vocaloidâ„¢ keyboard.

Illustration by iXima [Yamaha]

Hatsune Miku Magical Mirai 2023

Unicorn

I couldn’t possibly comment. 🙂

Copyright © 2023 Paul J. Drongowski

The other unicorn in the room

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With discussion focused on the upcoming Yamaha Montage M, we’ve forgotten about the other unicorn in the room: Yamaha SEQTRAKâ„¢.

It’s a Yamaha trademark

Before I add anything new, here’s a brief review of what we know from the public record. As many others have cited, “SEQTRAK” is a trademark registered by Yamaha. The “SEQTRAK” character mark is registered with both the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) and the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO). None of this should be surprising.

The USPTO trademark process has two major steps: intent to use and statement of use. The initial filing data — intent to use — was filed October 20, 2020. An applicant (Yamaha) must eventually file a Statement Of Use (SOU) when the mark is placed into actual use, i.e., the trademarked product is available for sale. If an applicant doesn’t file a timely SOU, they must apply for an SOU extension. As to “SEQTRAK”, Yamaha filed for and received its fourth extension on April 13, 2023.

Given the pandemic, supply chain issues, etc., SEQTRAK has been delayed. There may be technical reasons, but we don’t know that.

It’s got class

A trademark is valid only within a specific field of goods and services. “SEQTRAK” is valid within the following clases:

  • Primary class: 009 Electrical and Scientific Apparatus; US Classes: 0021, 023, 026, 036, 038
  • Primary class: 015 Musical Instruments; US Classes: 002, 021, 036

Breaking this down into English, we get the following uses under Class 009:

  • audio amplifiers;
  • audio mixers;
  • electric and electronic effects units for musical instruments;
  • sampling units, namely, digital phrase samplers used to record, replay, and edit digitally stored music samples;
  • music synthesizers, namely, desk top control units used to synthesize music that do not function independently as musical instruments;
  • electronic tone generators for musical instruments and audio effect processors;
  • electronic music sequencers;
  • electronic rhythm programmers;
  • downloadable computer software for generating, reproducing, effecting, and recording sound;
  • downloadable computer software for arranging, sequencing music;
  • downloadable computer software for creating computer music.

For class 015, Yamaha state:

  • electronic musical instruments;
  • electronic music synthesizer;
  • electronic drum machines;
  • electronic percussion instruments;
  • electronic rhythm machines.

Well, that really narrowed things down, didn’t it? Not. 🙂

Standing back, however, one gets the impression (gestalt) that SEQTRAK is a piece of hardware (like a sophisticated synth/beatbox) which integrates with downloadable software for sequencing. The software part kind of sounds like Steinberg Cubase, Groove Agent, Halion, etc.

What’s new?

First, I am not going to reveal sources and methods, and neither should you. The “SEQTRAK” name appeared in the warranty list spill to which Yamaha put a quick end. Zip it, Scott.

I’ve seen SEQTRAK described as a “music production studio”. Yamaha have used the term “music production studio” in the past. The most relevant past use is the venerable Yamaha RS7000 Music Production Studio. The Yamaha RS7000 is a groovebox combining a sequencer, sampler, synth, digital effects and mastering tools.

The RS7000 is the beast from 2001. [The year, Not the film.] Yamaha haven’t played in this space since then. They are due.

We know from the earlier reveal that there are two SEQTRAK models. Both models are functionally the same; you get a choice of black or orange livery. Physically, SEQTRAK is about 13.5″ wide, 3.8″ deep, 1.5″ high. That’s roughly the size of a small QWERTY keyboard. Connectivity is USB-C and Wi-Fi. Wired connections are made through one of the side panels. SEQTRAK is intended for desktop use, maybe in front of a QWERTY keyboard or laptop.

Let’s imagine an attractive, modern-looking desktop control surface. The surface is divided into five panels:

  • Sequencing (8 knobs, 16 buttons)
  • Mixing (4 knobs, 8 buttons)
  • Status (back-lit legends and LEDs)
  • Effects (4 knobs)
  • Output (master volume knob and built-in speaker)

On-board, one expects a synthesizer — oh, what the heck, make that two synthesizers — and a sampler.

Questions

Two big questions loom in my mind. First, what is the assignment of music production activies (synthesis, editing, ya-ya) to hardware and software? Is synthesis built in or is synthesis performed by Halion, for example? Second, does SEQTRAK integrate with other hardware products like Montage M and the new FGDP-50 finger drum? Please recall, FGDP-50 does not have standard MIDI IN/OUT and seems a little lonesome by itself. The FGDP-50 would be a natural companion for a groovebox. Is Montage M part of the “music production studio”?

Yamaha have been very, very busy…

Copyright © 2023 Paul J. Drongowski

Hammond M-solo announced

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For some reason, the best news pops up over the weekend. In this case, it’s announcement of the four-octave Hammond M-solo tone-wheel organ+. You got your drawbars, percussion and scanner controls, and four-octave keyboard in one compact unit. Hammond is pitching the M-solo as a second board to add over your other stage instruments (e.g., slab piano). Four octaves, though, is enough for real two-handed sport.

“The 8 pound M-solo features 49 keys, driving our “MTW II” Drawbar engine as found in our XK-4 Organ. All the essential HAMMOND ingredients are aboard, like Vibrato-Chorus (C1,C2,C3 etc.) and Touch-response percussion. Our high-definition digital LESLIEâ„¢ is on hand.”

Hammond need to hire a native English-speaking tech writer to edit the M-solo manual right doggone now. The grammar is horrible. Please.

The Hammond M-solo has four engines:

  • MTWII tone-wheel organ (polyphony: 61)
  • Transistor organs (polyphony: 96)
  • String/vocal ensemble (polyphony: 96)
  • Polyphonic synthesizer (polyphony: 8)

You can read all of the Hammond M-solo specs here. The drawbars control mix/timbre for all four engines. You can store up to three patches.

The polyphonic synthesizer is a two oscillator (triangle, sawtooth, square, pulse main and sub osc), filter and envelope affair. No mod or pitch-bend wheels; articulations are produced by pushing the (percussion) buttons.

The transistor organs and string/vocal ensemble are throw-backs to yester year (the 70s).

The goes-ins and goes-outs have the essentials: expression pedal, stereo 1/4″ jacks, phones, AUX IN (3.5mm), USB-B TO HOST, 5-pin MIDI IN and OUT, and something labelled “Leslie FAST”. The AC adapter in looks like a Casio-standard jack, uh-oh.

Someone floated a Japanese price on Keyboard Corner, but I could not verify it on the Suzuki web site. I suspect that Hammond are aiming for the magic $999 USD price point. I wouldn’t expect much for $1,000 these days, so forget about luxury features. Hammond Suzuki are offering a limited number of units in burgundy color.

The big (errr, small) spec that jumps out at me is 7 pounds 15 ounces (3.6kg). After 71 years, I have herniated just about everything that can be herniated. Small is good; light is good.

For me, I see the M-solo replacing my Yamaha Reface YC. I mainly use the YC at rehearsals — quick in, quick out. I’ve used the YC at the church job, when slugging MODX is too much for my health. Several things about Reface YC really annoy me: the fast rotary speaker speed, its chorus/vibrato and the three octave keyboard. Mini-keys are somewhat annoying, but hot-damn, either my left and/or right hand runs out of space on that friggin’ three octave keyboard. Three octave keyboards should be outlawed. No diggity.

Demo-wise, the organ demos have me interested. If you only have time for one video demo, play this one.

Definitely a big step up from Reface YC. The poly synth demo sounds are pretty weak. I’m hoping to get one or two good pad sounds out of it, maybe a flute-y lead. The string ensemble is a little too “PAiA Stringz’n’Thingz”, but I expected that. (Solina? Not so sure.) I don’t need much for rehearsal. And the M-solo will scratch my occasional itch for combo organ.

Copyright © 2023 Paul J. Drongowski