Yamaha just posted the MODX Data List, Reference Manual, Supplementary Manual, and Synthesizer Parameter Manual. You’ll find them in the Yamaha manual library or linked from the MODX page on your regional Yamaha site.

The Supplementary Manual describes the new functions added with the MODX Version 1.10 update. Quoting the manual:

Yamaha has upgraded the MODX firmware, adding the following new functions. This manual describes additions and changes with respect to the Reference Manual that came with your instrument.

• A new function has been added that allows you to selectively enable (or disable) recording of Arpeggio data, when recording
  MIDI songs.
• You can now set a Center Note in the Edit Waveform display.
• You can now set a key for assignment when loading WAV files or AIFF files as waveforms.
• You can now select the Assignable Knob for Common Parts, by pressing the [PART SELECT MUTE/SOLO] in the dialog
  displayed when selecting the Part parameter and pressing the [CONTROL ASSIGN] button.
• The Panel Lock function has been added to prevent inadvertent operations during your performance.

The ability to assign a key to a WAV or AIFF waveform as it loads partially mitigates the hassle of triggering a backing track or other “sample” when playing. It requires the waveform to be loaded into expansion memory, however.

Both the Montage and MODX are a behind their competitors when it comes to playing a WAV/AIFF or MP3 from USB drive. Yes, you can do it, but it requires several steps. Yamaha need to extend the Live Set concept to remember both a Performance and a USB WAV/AIFF path name in a Live Set button. The button memory should also remember the audio level and AUTO-start status. This feature would be great for live play as a single or as a small combo with a backing track. In this way, one button press can bring up a patch and start a backing track from a USB flash drive — no menu diving.

Hey, hey, have fun today!

Copyright © 2018 Paul J. Drongowski (except manual quotation)