Synth, Electronic & Audio article index

This section covers the range of synthesisers, keyboards, electronic music gadgets, and other audio devices used in making and recording music, from manufacturers such as Yamaha, Korg, Kurzweil, Roland, Casio, and Moog, as well as looking at projects and techniques for synth playing and programming.

Casio XW-G1 groove synthesiser and XW-P1 launched [NAMM12]

Casio’s musical instrument department enters a new era as it announces the launch of two new professional music synthesisers.

First up is the XW-G1 Groove Synthesiser, targeted specifically at DJs and club performers with its interactive step sequencer and sample looper.

Key features of the 61-key XW-G1 synth are:

• 6 Oscillator Monophonic Solo Synthesizer
• Sample Looper – Up to 19 Seconds of sampling time
• Sample Player – 10 user tones with up to 5 samples each can be stored in Flash Memory for instant recall
• 300 fully editable PCM based sounds
• Step Sequencer with 9 instrument tracks and 4 controller tracks
• 16 step programmable Arpeggiator
• Phrase sequencer to record and playback your riffs
• Performance mode providing 4 internal or external instrument zones with instant recall of effects, Step Sequences, Arpeggiators and Phrases
• 4 real-time controller knobs
• Pitch and Modulation Wheels
• 1/4” Mic and Line puts to process your voice or other instruments
• Stereo 1/8” line input to connect an MP3 player, laptop or tablet
• USB and MIDI ports
• 1/4” Line Outputs
• Included Power Supply
• Can operate on 6 D batteries

Casio XW synths

The 61-key XW-P1 features:

• 6 Oscillator Monophonic Solo Synthesizer
• HexLayer – A single sound made up of 6 components for gig ready splits and layers
• Drawbar Organ Mode  with 9 sliders, adjustable rotary speaker, key click, vibrato and percussion
• 400 fully editable PCM based sounds like stereo pianos, vintage electric pianos, strings, guitars, drums and more.
• Step Sequencer with 9 instrument tracks and 4 controller tracks
• 16 step programmable Arpeggiator
• Phrase sequencer to record and playback your riffs
• Performance mode providing 4 internal or external instrument zones with instant recall of effects, Step Sequences, Arpeggiators and Phrases
• 4 real-time controller knobs
• Pitch and Modulation Wheels
• 1/4” Mic and Line puts to process your voice or other instruments
• Stereo 1/8” line input to connect an MP3 player, laptop or tablet
• USB and MIDI ports
• 1/4” Line Outputs
• Included Power Supply
• Can operate on 6 D batteries

More details of this new breed of synth follow.

Control

The XW-P1 and XW-G1 have 4 real- time controller knobs, pitch bend and modulation wheels, along with 9 sliders to provide control over internal sounds and external devices. Through standard MIDI ports and with a class-compliant USB port the keyboard can be used as a controller for other instruments, including computer software and iPad® based software applications. It also includes an audio input allowing you to monitor an MP3 player, computer or other device without the need for a mixer.

Step Sequencer

Providing everything from pulsing dance grooves to animated synth textures and arpeggios, the Step Sequencer in both the XW-P1 and XW-G1 is the first of its kind. With nine tracks for drums, basses, synths and chordal parts, four controller tracks for adding panning, filter changes and other animation to existing parts and eight patterns make up each sequence; the user can build and mix their performance on the fly. Sequences can even transpose live from the keyboard, providing a completely interactive experience.

Drawbar Organ

In addition to the solo synth and HexLayers, the XW-P1 performance synthesizer is armed with an arsenal of gig ready sounds like stereo pianos, vintage electric pianos, strings, brass, guitars, basses, drums and more. It also has a new drawbar organ mode. Utilizing the nine sliders on the XW-P1 you have full range control over each drawbar. The XW-P1 even has dedicated controls for key percussion and rotary speaker while also providing vibrato, distortion and more for the ultimate drawbar organ experience.

Solo Synth

Utilizing Casio’s exclusive (HPSS) Hybrid Processing Sound Source, a six oscillator monophonic solo synth is just one of the amazing sound engines in both the XW-P1 and XW-G1. The solo synth has the power to deliver classic analog sounds and sounds with an aggressive edge unlike anything else. Two virtual analog style oscillators, two PCM based oscillators, a noise oscillator and an external oscillator via mic and line inputs can be combined to make up a single solo synth tone. Each oscillator has an independent filter, envelopes, independent key tracking, portamento, two LFO’s and access to master resonant filter. With impressive modulation and control capabilities at your fingertips, the solo synth is capable of a wide range of sounds and expression.

HexLayer

In addition to the solo synth, the XW-P1 also features HexLayer tones. A HexLayer is a single sound comprised of up to 6 components, allowing complex layers, splits and velocity switched sounds. The sliders on the XW-P1 can be used to mix sounds on the fly to create evolving pads and rich synth textures while key velocity can be used to create dynamic velocity switched orchestral sounds and more.

Arpeggiator and Phrase Sequencer

The XW-P1 and XW-G1 both have powerful Arpeggiators. In addition to typical arpeggio patterns, this Arpeggiator can create polyphonic synth gated patterns, acoustic instrument emulations and is even fully programmable allowing you to create your own unique sounds. An additional phrase sequencer allows you to quickly capture any riff that you play on the keyboard and have it available on a front panel switch or triggered and transposed live from a range of notes on the keyboard. The combination of the Step Sequencer, Arpeggiator and Phrase Sequencer provides an endless array of sound possibilities.

Take a look at the video below for demos and explanations:

The XW-G1 will be available in April 2012 for an MSRP of $799.00 while the XW-P1 arrives in March 2012 for an MSRP of $699.00.

Korg Kaossilator 2 bursts into life [NAMM12]

Korg has updated its hugely popular Kaossilator with the arrival of the Kaossilator 2.

Still sporting a vibrant yellow body (whether it comes in pink is another matter) it boasts a range of features including:

• Simple control with finger taps/slides on the integrated X-Y touchpad
• 150 built-in sounds cover every style of dance music
• PCM sound engine serves up realistic drums
• Scale Key and Note Range eliminates “wrong” notes
• Built-in Gate Arpeggiator with adjustable gate time and swing settings
• Loop Recording allows the creation of layered phrases with unlimited overdubs
• Dual Loop Recording banks allow DJ-Style mutes and cross-fades
• Record using the built-in mic; or use the mic input for recording of external input
• microSD/SDHC card slot for saving loops and recorded performances

More details, specs, pricing and availability to be confirmed.

Korg Mini KAOSS PAD 2 hits [NAMM12]

Korg has announced a new addition to its KAOSS family of DJ-friendly audio products with the arrival of the Mini KAOSS PAD 2.

Highlights include:

• Control effects in real time using the intuitive touchpad interface
• MP3 player with microSD card slot for data storage/exchange;
  
  Perform on the Mini Kaoss Pad 2 without needing any other equipment!
• 100 effect programs, ideal for DJ mixes or sound design
• 3 Program Memories provide instant recall of favorite effects
• Powerful Looper, Vinyl Break, and Ducking Comp effects borrowed from the Kaoss Pad Quad
• Internal mic plus external audio inputs
• Support for pitch change and cue point settings allows serious DJ play.
• Record your performances and save then to using the microSD card slot
• 6 preset audio demo loops

We’ll keep you updated with full specifications, pricing and availability as soon as we know it.

Yamaha intros EZ-220 lighted keyboard [NAMM12]

Yamaha has updated its EZ-200 lighted keyboard with the introduction of the EZ-220.

Information is pretty sparse at present, with no spec sheet and a minimal description.

What we’ve managed to glean is that it will include 100 preset songs designed to help beginners learn to play the keyboard.

Yamaha EZ-220 Lighted Keyboard

It features 392 built-in voices including realistic acoustic instruments including drums, plus synths and sound effects. There are 100 preset accompaniment styles on board.

Finally, the Yamaha Education Suite offers various lessons and tutorials for the budding pianist.

Exact pricing and availability are still to be confirmed.

Roland intros FR-1x V-Accordion [NAMM12]

Roland takes another step on its decade-long V-Accordion journey with the introduction of the FR-1x V-Accordion.

It builds upon the current FR-1 V-Accordions with the following key features:

• FR-1x Piano type and FR-1x Button type with stereo speaker system onboard
• USB memory port for Wave/MP3 player, new-sounds upload, data loading/saving
• Professional look with friendly user interface and 7-segment LED
• Standard and Free Bass modes
• 16 Accordion Sets, 16 Orchestral sounds, four Virtual Tone Wheel presets, eight User Programs
• Available in black or red

It’s light and small so is easily transportable. Its on-board speakers and battery operation make it instantly usable in a performance setting.

Read more about its features below.

Perfect for Students and Pros

Light and small, the FR-1x series is perfect for young players, music studios, and schools. They are the most compact of all V-Accordions, but cut no corners in sound quality. It’s also a perfect instrument for the professional accordionist and live performer. The FR-1x’s battery power and onboard speakers make it ideal for the strolling accordionist. The FR-1x is great instrument for musicians who perform musical styles such as folk, rock, roots-rock, blues, zydeco, and more.

Play Anytime, Anywhere

Enjoy instant, high-quality sound from the onboard speakers or play privately with ear buds or headphones (sold separately). The FR-1x is also the perfect instrument to travel with. Because of its compact size, it fits in the overhead storage compartment on most commercial airplanes.

Advanced Musical Expression

With the FR-1x series, you can access over a dozen different accordion sounds instantly. There are even orchestral instruments onboard, as well as virtual tonewheel organs with realistic rotary effects. The FR-1x also includes onboard manual drum/percussion sounds that can be played with the bass and chord buttons!

Exact pricing and availability to be confirmed.

Roland intros PK-6 dynamic MIDI pedal [NAMM12]

Roland has updated its impressive MIDI foot pedal with the introduction of the PK-6 dynamic MIDI pedal.

Looking much like the pedals found on an organ, this versatile piece of kit allows the keyboard player/pianist great creativity and flexibility by controlling MIDI with the feet.

Compatible with most MIDI devices and including a MIDI merge facility, it allows players to send a variety of MIDI signals which can then be used for playing baselines, harmonies, or sending control messages.

The 13 pedals, spanning a chromatic octave, are velocity sensitive so will send appropriate data depending on how firmly they are depressed.

There are four selectable performance modes: Mono, Poly, Drums and MIDI controller. Although Roland doesn’t explain these in the press release, we can assume that “mono” is for sending single MIDI note on/off messages on a single channel, “poly” will allow multiple notes to be sent at once (possibly on different channels), “drums” will map to a GM (General MIDI) Drum Map, while MIDI controller will allow alternative control messages to be assigned to each pedal.

When sending notes, the pedals can be transposed over a nine octave range. As well as the MIDI ports there’s also a PK Out port for use with existing Roland instruments that utilise it. It runs on batteries, and presumably (hopefully) can also be mains powered.

Exact pricing and availability to be confirmed, but we expect it to retail at around the $500 mark.

Roland intros BK-5 backing keyboard [NAMM12]

Auto-accompaniment features on electronic keyboards are nothing new, but Roland believes it has stepped up the game a notch with the introduction of its BK-5 Backing Keyboard.

Designed for the one-man gigging keyboardist, or to use to accompany others, the BK-5 includes a powerhouse of authentic sounds, a large range of drum kits, a wide variety of accompaniment styles spanning cultures and musical genres, and the ability to handle MP3, SMF, WAV and Rhythm files for greater creative possibilities.

Key features include:

• Self-contained, do-everything keyboard with auto-accompaniment engine and built-in sound system
• Wide selection of sounds, Music Assistants, and Rhythms that cover a wide landscape of musical genres (including East-Europe, Latin-America, Asia, and more)
• Friendly graphical user interface
• Onboard effects, including reverb, chorus, EQ, multi-band compressor, and dozens of multi-effects
• Music rhythm compatibility with Roland BK-7m/E-series/ G-series/VA-series instruments
• Compatible with backing formats (SMF, MP3, WAV, and Rhythm) directly from USB memory; instant audio recording onto USB memory
• Automatic chord detection for SMF files
• Video output to share SMF/MP3 Lyrics with friends or the audience on an external screen

Read more about the features below.

Sound Generator

The BK-5 is powered by a state-of-the-art Roland sound engine, packed with over 1,100 great sounds and dozens of drum and percussion kits. The instrument is able to handle 128 voices simultaneously, and is compatible with a variety of voicing formats, including GM2, GS, and XG Lite. Feed the BK-5 a Standard MIDI File, buckle up, and get ready for a great-sounding band!

Creative Control

In addition to playing MIDI Files with its internal sound generator, the BK-5 can also play and manipulate audio files. Play MP3 or WAV files via USB and use the onboard controls to change key signature and tempo to best suit your vocal range or performance style. You can also use the BK-5′s Center Cancel feature to minimize the vocals from pre-existing songs to create instant karaoke-style sing-along tracks.

USB Compatibility

To expand the capabilities of the BK-5, a USB port is provided for connecting to industry-standard USB storage devices such as a USB key or self-powered USB hard disk for playing and modifying/ saving files. You can also use the USB port to record your performances as audio files (WAV, 44.1 kHz/16-bit linear format) on a USB storage device.

Video Compatibility

The BK-5′s composite video output can be connected to an external monitor, which allows the audience or other musicians onstage to follow the lyrics and chord symbols of the performed song. Turn your show into a multimedia experience!

Exact pricing and availability to be confirmed.

Roland intros Platinum Edition Atelier AT-900 organ [NAMM12]

Three years after the launch of the Atelier AT-900 organ, Roland has updated and released the flagship “platinum edition” AT-900.

This edition has a newly-updated cabinet design, expanded voices and additional features, including:

• Lustrous walnut finish
• Acclaimed Virtual Tone Wheel organ sound
• Improved and expanded Pipe Organ voices
• Expressive, organic SuperNATURAL sounds
• Improved Arranger engine
• BMP File Export function with music score support

You can read all about its new features below, but we don’t yet know detailed specifications for the instrument.

Rich, Walnut Cabinet

The AT-900 Platinum Edition is housed in a beautiful, hand-crafted wooden cabinet with walnut finish. The new contoured shape, taller side panels, rounded toe blocks, and wider music stand make the instrument as beautiful visually as it is musically.

Acclaimed Virtual Tone Wheel Sounds Built in

One of Roland’s core technologies — Virtual Tone Wheel made famous in the VK series — is onboard the AT-900 Platinum Edition. You can customize organ sounds by adjusting parameters such as Key Click, Leakage, Rotary Acceleration, and more. This feature is exclusively available in the AT-900 Platinum Edition. Create the perfect settings for jazz, rock, gospel, and beyond.

Authentic Pipe Organ Sounds Added

Authentic pipe organ voices from Roland’s Classic Series organs are also onboard, and instantly selectable from the Quick Registration settings. Play great songs such as “Toccata and Fuga” and other classic Baroque pieces. In addition, a 350-song hymn library is onboard for enjoying classical and worship music at home.

New SuperNATURAL Sounds Onboard

A lineup of Roland’s acclaimed SuperNATURAL sounds is onboard the AT-900 Platinum Edition — 35 tones to choose from. Experience a new level of realism and emotion with these incredibly expressive acoustic-instrument and ensemble sounds. Access the SuperNATURAL sounds in the Upper, Lower, or Pedal sections (up to four parts at time). They provide unsurpassed realism in all music genres.

Enhanced Arranger Engine

The built-in Arranger engine has been enhanced with new auto-accompaniment patterns and musical content. Rhythm-set sounds from Roland’s famous V-Drums are onboard, plus improved orchestration voicing and expanded Music Styles to cover a wider range of genres. Play your favorite songs with a pro-quality backing band onboard.

BMP File Export for Organ Arrangement Score

This convenient feature for organ lessons lets you export your organ performance as an arrangement score (BMP image) via USB drive. Simply record your original performance with the built-in recorder and you can view and print your original organ score with an external computer and printer.

Exact pricing and availability to be confirmed.

Roland intros V-Drums Lite HD-3 electronic drum kit [NAMM12]

The Roland HD-3 V-Drums Lite drum kit is ideal as a starter kit for beginner drummers and anyone who wants a compact, relatively inexpensive electronic drum kit in their home.

It uses much of the same decade-developed technology found in Roland’s latest V-Pro series kit but is smaller and cheaper.

Key features include:

• 20 preset kits with dedicated select buttons.
• Backlit LCD offering playing and kit information.
• Beater-less kick drum with an improved playing feel and low ambient noise.
• Cloth-head toms with improved design and feel.
• Dual-trigger pads for snare and crash/ride for improved playability.
• Adjustable metronome.
• Audio input jack allows mixing and jamming along with recordings on MP3/CD etc.

Additionally, a PM-03 personal drum monitor amplification system can be added offering 2.1-channel sound and dual audio output jacks.

Full details of pricing and availability to be announced in due course.

Roland introduces V-Drums V-Pro Series [NAMM12]

Roland continues to build on its decade-long history of V-Drums with the introduction of the SuperNATURAL-powered TD-30KV and TD-30K V-Pro Series electronic drum set. You’ll probably best know SuperNATURAL from its role in the V-Piano.

Key features include Behaviour Modelling and advanced sensing technology that reacts and responds to a drummer’s performance nuances and dynamics, plus a USB audio playback function that allows the player to incorporate other sounds as well as backup data.

At a glance features of each set and accessory follows:

TD-30KV V-Drums V-Pro Series

Solid stage set with metallic gray and black-chrome color finish
New V-Hi-Hat (VH-13-MG) with improved motion sensor for natural hi-hat response
New V-Pads (PD-128S/128/108-BC) with improved rim sensor for accurate rim-shot sensing
New V-Cymbals (CY-14C-MG Crash, CY-15R-MG Ride) with natural feel and accurate triggering.

TD-30K V-Drums V-Pro Series

Compact, solid drum stand (MDS-12V) for professional studio requirements
New lightweight 10-inch V-Pad (PDX-100) for toms

TD-30 Drum Sound Module

The heart of the V-Pro series is the new TD-30 drum. With SuperNATURAL sounds produced by Behavior Modeling, the sound quality is superior, responding naturally to a variety of drumming techniques and dynamics. From rim shots, rolls, flams, even ghost notes on the snare, to dramatic crash hits and sustained cymbal swells, every nuance is accurate and smooth. For spatial depth, a dedicated Ambience fader gives you immediate access to lush room ambience and overhead-microphone simulation.

PD-128S-BC/-128-BC V-Pad

A new rim sensor has been specifically developed for these 12-inch mesh head pads in conjunction with the TD-30 to accurately detect dynamics and rim-shot depth. The pads feature an exchangeable black-chrome color shell wrap. The pad is offered in two formats, the PD-128-BC and PD-128S-BC. The PD-128-BC is designed as toms and comes with a two-way mount holder; PD-128S-BC is snare-stand mountable.

PD-108-BC V-Pad

This mesh head pad also includes the new rim sensor for improved dynamics and rim-shot depth. The pad features an exchangeable black-chrome color shell wrap and accommodates dual mounting for setup versatility.

VH-13-MG V-Hi-Hat

The new V-Hi-Hat (VH-13-MG) features an improved motion sensor. Combined with advanced triggering technology, the response is more natural with smooth open to closed control. The surface is a new metallic-gray color, cosmetically matching the new series of V-Cymbals.

CY-14C-MG/-15R-MG V-Cymbal

The new V-Cymbals (CY-14C-MG Crash, CY-15R-MG Ride) are offered in an eye-catching metallic-gray color surface to cosmetically match the new V-Hi-Hat, new V-Pads, and chrome-finished drum stand. They provide a natural swing-feel and accurate triggering and sensitivity across the entire cymbal surface.

KD-140-BC V-Kick

This solid, stylish new kick pad features an exchangeable new black-chrome shell wrap. It provides stable performance and accurate triggering with a natural, acoustic-like kick feel.

PDX-100 V-Pad

Compact and lightweight, this new 10-inch mesh head V-Pad also provides a dual-mount option for increased setup versatility.

MDS-12V Drum Stand

This compact, solid drum rack provides flexible ball clamps for snare and toms, boom/straight options for the cymbal arms, and an internal cable management system, for a clean professional look. It has been specifically designed for the TD-30K V-Pro series.

Exact pricing and availability is still to be confirmed. Those on a tighter budget who want something compact and less expensive, but based on the same technology, may want to take a look at the HD-3 drum kit from Roland.

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