Earn Up to $150 ComeBack Cash on Killer Music Gear + Free Shipping on Orders Over $49!
We announce new keyboard and related gear as it is released. Pro Keyboards, Synths, Samplers, Sequencers and related accessories.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Earn Up to $150 ComeBack Cash on Killer Music Gear + Free Shipping on Orders Over $49!
40,000 Items in Stock at Musician's Friend

Earn Up to $150 ComeBack Cash on Killer Music Gear + Free Shipping on Orders Over $49!
Earn Up to $150 ComeBack Cash on Killer Music Gear + Free Shipping on Orders Over $49!
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Roland JUNO-D 61-Key Synthesizer
Roland JUNO-D 61-Key Synthesizer
$495.00 -or- $15/mo. - Apply!
List Price: $699.00 Savings: $204.00(29%)
Incredibly affordable and full-featured!
The Roland Juno D 61-Key Synthesizer is packed with hundreds of first-class sounds. You get expressive multi-effects, realtime performance controllers, and tools for groove creation and composition. The 61-note keyboard offers 64-voice polyphony and improved feel. 640 top-quality patches with split and layering capability are organized into categories for easy access. 20 rhythm sets, GM2 compatibility. 47 multi-effects. Powerful arpeggiator with 400 templates. Multi Chord memory for one-finger chord triggering; Rhythm Guide metronome. The awesome D-Beam controller offers intuitive sound control and front-panel control knobs enable instant fine-tuning. 2 tones can be assigned to each patch, and then split or layered. Mac/PC editing software included.
Roland JUNO-D 61-Key Synthesizer Specifications:
* Dimensions: 40-1/4"W x 11-1/2"D x 4-1/16"H
* Weight: 11 lbs.
Roland JUNO-D 61-Key Synthesizer Features:
* 61-key synth with velocity
* 64-voice polyphony
* 16-part multitimbral capability
* 640 tones
* 20 rhythm sets
* 47 multi-effects
* 8 choruses
* 8 reverbs
* 32MB of Wave ROM
* Phrase/arpeggiator with 400 templates
* Multi-chord memory for one-finger chord triggering
* Rhythm guide metronome with presets and variations
* 128 user memory patches
* Separate tempo track
* Stores 100 user-programmable patterns or one song
* Dimension beam controller
* Mac/PC editing software included
For stellar sounds and powerful sequencing in this price range, it can't be beat! Order today.
Massive Pre-Holiday Clearance Sale
40,000 Items in Stock at Musician's Friend

Our Massive Pre-Holiday Clearance Sale is going into overtime making this a great time to give Musician's Friend a try. Shop now to scoop up the sweetest deals because it's all over on Tuesday! Combined with FREE SHIPPING on orders of $29 and up with no heavy gear exclusions, there's no time like now to order those heavy PA cabs, drums, keyboards, and mixers! This is a limited-time deal, so don't delay!
Our Massive Pre-Holiday Clearance Sale is going into overtime making this a great time to give Musician's Friend a try. Shop now to scoop up the sweetest deals because it's all over on Tuesday! Combined with FREE SHIPPING on orders of $29 and up with no heavy gear exclusions, there's no time like now to order those heavy PA cabs, drums, keyboards, and mixers! This is a limited-time deal, so don't delay!
Monday, October 22, 2007
40,000 Items in Stock at Musician's Friend
40,000 Items in Stock at Musician's Friend

Shop now to take advantage of two killer deals! With our Massive Pre-Holiday Clearance Sale in full swing plus FREE SHIPPING on orders of $29 and up with NO EXCLUSIONS FOR HEAVY GEAR, this is a great time to order those heavy speaker cabs, drums, keyboards, and mixers! This is the sweetest free shipping deal we've offered all year and a great chance to save big bucks. Act fast, this offer won't last long!
Shop now to take advantage of two killer deals! With our Massive Pre-Holiday Clearance Sale in full swing plus FREE SHIPPING on orders of $29 and up with NO EXCLUSIONS FOR HEAVY GEAR, this is a great time to order those heavy speaker cabs, drums, keyboards, and mixers! This is the sweetest free shipping deal we've offered all year and a great chance to save big bucks. Act fast, this offer won't last long!
Monday, October 15, 2007
Musician's Friend
No tricks. Just treats for guys and ghouls! Musician's Friend is offering monster savings on gear to make your Halloween parties rock! unearth savings of up to 75% on spooky lighting, fog machines, clothing, accessories, and more Halloween-appropriate items. Discounts reflected in price. Orders received by 2pm EST on October 24th are guaranteed delivery by the 31st.
Saturday, October 13, 2007
Musician's Friend Pre Holiday Sale
40,000 Items in Stock at Musician's Friend

We’ve got to make warehouse space for incoming holiday products and have slashed prices with DEEP DISCOUNTS on all kinds of great clearance gear! HURRY, sale ends October 19 – shop now before the best deals are snapped up! All new stock covered by our 45-Day Lowest Price and Total Satisfaction Guarantees and FREE SHIPPING on orders of $99 or more!
Musician's Friend Pre Holiday Sale
We’ve got to make warehouse space for incoming holiday products and have slashed prices with DEEP DISCOUNTS on all kinds of great clearance gear! HURRY, sale ends October 19 – shop now before the best deals are snapped up! All new stock covered by our 45-Day Lowest Price and Total Satisfaction Guarantees and FREE SHIPPING on orders of $99 or more!
Musician's Friend Pre Holiday Sale
Saturday, October 06, 2007
Musician's Friend 3 Months Same As Cash
Musician’s Friend Platinum Card

Two ways to put gear in your rack and money in your pocket!
We’ve pushed the limits to come up with two amazing finance plans for Musician’s Friend Platinum Card holders. Now you’ll never miss another opportunity to save big on time-sensitive special offers or own that limited edition collector’s item you’ve been dreaming of! Better yet, you’ll never overpay for gear that you could be using right now to make more money at gigs. All it takes is a Musician's Friend Platinum Credit Card—your gateway to incredible savings. Apply now and you could be on your way to taking home the gear of your dreams in a matter of minutes!
3 Months Same As Cash: For three months, make no payments, and pay no interest on any purchase made with your Musician’s Friend Platinum Card! *OR
12 Months Same As Cash: Pay no interest for 12 months on any purchase of $399 or more made with your Musician's Friend Platinum card! Just make minimum monthly payments and pay in full in 12 months and you pay no interest! **
Two ways to put gear in your rack and money in your pocket!
We’ve pushed the limits to come up with two amazing finance plans for Musician’s Friend Platinum Card holders. Now you’ll never miss another opportunity to save big on time-sensitive special offers or own that limited edition collector’s item you’ve been dreaming of! Better yet, you’ll never overpay for gear that you could be using right now to make more money at gigs. All it takes is a Musician's Friend Platinum Credit Card—your gateway to incredible savings. Apply now and you could be on your way to taking home the gear of your dreams in a matter of minutes!
3 Months Same As Cash: For three months, make no payments, and pay no interest on any purchase made with your Musician’s Friend Platinum Card! *OR
12 Months Same As Cash: Pay no interest for 12 months on any purchase of $399 or more made with your Musician's Friend Platinum card! Just make minimum monthly payments and pay in full in 12 months and you pay no interest! **
Thursday, October 04, 2007
Guitar Center: Special Financing on all Roland and Boss
This October, save big on top products from Roland and Boss on Musician's Friend!

Guitar Center: Special Financing on all Roland and Boss
Guitar Center: Special Financing on all Roland and Boss
Roland JUNO-G Workstation Synthesizer Keyboard
Roland JUNO-G Workstation Synthesizer Keyboard
$995.99
MSRP: $1199.00 Save: $203.01
Mail-In Rebate
Good through 10/31/07
Buy a Juno-G and get your choice of an SRX-97 or SRX-98 Expansion Board FREE by mail-in rebate
Sunday, September 23, 2007
Kawai MP5
Keyboard Gear

$1,199.00 -or- $36/mo. - Apply!
List Price: $1,495.00 Savings: $296.00(19%)
Loaded with professional sounds and Kawai's acclaimed graded-hammer action!
The Kawai MP5 continues the heritage of Kawai's highly acclaimed MP9000 and MP95000 stage pianos with 256 high-quality instrument sounds. Included is Kawai's famous Concert Grand piano sound along with a newly sampled alternative grand piano, plus dozens of other instruments The MP5 incorporates the Advanced Hammer Action IV with Acoustic Reaction technology, featuring a graded-hammer action. The AHA IV delivers uncompromising feel in a surprising lightweight and portable keyboard action.
The MP5 also features many of the powerful controller functions found on its predecessors, including 4-zone control, real-time control knobs, and 256 user setups. A backlight LCD, MIDI I/O, USB connectivity, reverb, and 22 effect types add to the power and convenience. Additionally, the MP5 has been upgraded to 192 voice polyphony. A music rack and damper pedal are included.
The MP5 Professional Stage Piano is sure to satisfy the most demanding performer's need for impeccable sound quality, responsive touch, and powerful control. The MP5 delivers all this, and more . . . all at an impressively affordable price.
Kawai MP5 Professional Stage Piano Specifications:
* Dimensions: 53.38" x 13.38" x 6.78 " (1356 mm x 340 mm x 172 mm)
* Weight: 45 lbs. (20.5 kg)
Kawai MP5 Professional Stage Piano Features:
* Keyboard: 88 Weighted Keys
* Action: Advanced Hammer Action IV with Acoustic Reaction™ technology
* Sound Soure: Harmonic Imaging™ Sound Technology
* Sounds: 32 x Piano, 32 x E.Piano, 32 x Drawbar, 32 x Organ,
* 32 x Strings/Vocal, 32 x Brass/Wind, 32 x Pad/Synth,
* 32 x Bass/Guitar - 256 Total Sounds
* Polyphony: 192
* Zones: 4
* Reverb Types: 7 Types: Hall 1, Hall 2, Stage 1, Stage 2, Room 1,
* Room 2, Plate
* Effect Types: Chorus, Flanger, Celeste, Ensemble, Delay 1, Delay 2,
* Delay 3, Delay 4, Auto Pan 1, Auto Pan 2, Auto Pan 3,
* Tremolo 1, Tremolo 2, Tremolo 3, Phaser 1, Phaser 2,
* Rotary 1, Rotary 2, Auto Wah, Pedal Wah, Enhancer, Overdrive
* Setup Memory: 256 Setups
* Display: 16 x 2 LCD with backlight
* Controls: Pitch Bend wheel, Modulation wheel, Master Volume, Zone Volume (x4), Zone Edit selection (x4), Zone On/Off (x4), Real Time Edit control (x4), Control Mode switch (x4), SW On/Off, EFX On/Off, Reverb On/Off, Menu Up, Menu Down, Value Up, Value Down, Sound Mode, Setup Mode (System Mode), Sound/Setup select (8x8x4), Store, Transpose, Metronome
* Jacks: 1/4" jacks for Line Out (L/Mono, R or 2x Mono), Headphone jack, Damper/Soft pedal, Foot
* Switch (assignable), Expression (assignable), MIDI In/Out/Thru, USB (to Host), AC Inlet,Power Switch On/Off
* Accessories: Owner's Manual, Music Rack, Power Cable, Damper Pedal
An impressive professional instrument at a surprisingly affordable price. Put it in the cart!
$1,199.00 -or- $36/mo. - Apply!
List Price: $1,495.00 Savings: $296.00(19%)
Loaded with professional sounds and Kawai's acclaimed graded-hammer action!
The Kawai MP5 continues the heritage of Kawai's highly acclaimed MP9000 and MP95000 stage pianos with 256 high-quality instrument sounds. Included is Kawai's famous Concert Grand piano sound along with a newly sampled alternative grand piano, plus dozens of other instruments The MP5 incorporates the Advanced Hammer Action IV with Acoustic Reaction technology, featuring a graded-hammer action. The AHA IV delivers uncompromising feel in a surprising lightweight and portable keyboard action.
The MP5 also features many of the powerful controller functions found on its predecessors, including 4-zone control, real-time control knobs, and 256 user setups. A backlight LCD, MIDI I/O, USB connectivity, reverb, and 22 effect types add to the power and convenience. Additionally, the MP5 has been upgraded to 192 voice polyphony. A music rack and damper pedal are included.
The MP5 Professional Stage Piano is sure to satisfy the most demanding performer's need for impeccable sound quality, responsive touch, and powerful control. The MP5 delivers all this, and more . . . all at an impressively affordable price.
Kawai MP5 Professional Stage Piano Specifications:
* Dimensions: 53.38" x 13.38" x 6.78 " (1356 mm x 340 mm x 172 mm)
* Weight: 45 lbs. (20.5 kg)
Kawai MP5 Professional Stage Piano Features:
* Keyboard: 88 Weighted Keys
* Action: Advanced Hammer Action IV with Acoustic Reaction™ technology
* Sound Soure: Harmonic Imaging™ Sound Technology
* Sounds: 32 x Piano, 32 x E.Piano, 32 x Drawbar, 32 x Organ,
* 32 x Strings/Vocal, 32 x Brass/Wind, 32 x Pad/Synth,
* 32 x Bass/Guitar - 256 Total Sounds
* Polyphony: 192
* Zones: 4
* Reverb Types: 7 Types: Hall 1, Hall 2, Stage 1, Stage 2, Room 1,
* Room 2, Plate
* Effect Types: Chorus, Flanger, Celeste, Ensemble, Delay 1, Delay 2,
* Delay 3, Delay 4, Auto Pan 1, Auto Pan 2, Auto Pan 3,
* Tremolo 1, Tremolo 2, Tremolo 3, Phaser 1, Phaser 2,
* Rotary 1, Rotary 2, Auto Wah, Pedal Wah, Enhancer, Overdrive
* Setup Memory: 256 Setups
* Display: 16 x 2 LCD with backlight
* Controls: Pitch Bend wheel, Modulation wheel, Master Volume, Zone Volume (x4), Zone Edit selection (x4), Zone On/Off (x4), Real Time Edit control (x4), Control Mode switch (x4), SW On/Off, EFX On/Off, Reverb On/Off, Menu Up, Menu Down, Value Up, Value Down, Sound Mode, Setup Mode (System Mode), Sound/Setup select (8x8x4), Store, Transpose, Metronome
* Jacks: 1/4" jacks for Line Out (L/Mono, R or 2x Mono), Headphone jack, Damper/Soft pedal, Foot
* Switch (assignable), Expression (assignable), MIDI In/Out/Thru, USB (to Host), AC Inlet,Power Switch On/Off
* Accessories: Owner's Manual, Music Rack, Power Cable, Damper Pedal
An impressive professional instrument at a surprisingly affordable price. Put it in the cart!
CME UF-70 76-Key Master Keyboard MIDI Controller Features:
Keyboard Gear

Extremely versatile MIDI control with wireless built right in!
The CME UF-70 76-Key Master Keyboard MIDI Controller brings together quality components with topnotch performance. You'll have professional control over all your soft synths and synth modules. The shimmering silver-cast aluminum body is durable and sleek, offering a stylish housing for the 76 synth-action, velocity-sensitive keys with aftertouch.
Like the other updated UF series MIDI controllers, the UF-70 has built-in duplex wireless MIDI interface with error correction function, class-compliant USB, a redesigned control panel, shortcut function keys, user template memory, all control components are freely assignable, the velocity curve has been increased, and aftertouch is now adjustable. The UF-70 also has scales and tuning control for Arabian and Asian music styles, as well as the U-CTRL music software auto-recognition system for instant control without templates or presets. The integrity of your performance is safeguarded by CME with increased continuous controller data density.
The UF-70 also has pitch and modulation wheels; 8 assignable knobs and 9 assignable sliders that also have preset functions; an LED display; and DAW transport controls. I/O includes a breath controller port, MIDI out, USB port, and an M-LAN-compatible FireWire audio expansion card, as well as an additional MIDI in on the expansion card. The USB connection can works as a USB/MIDI port and supplies power for the controller.
CME UF-70 76-Key Master Keyboard MIDI Controller Specifications:
* 1232 x 348 x 113 mm
* 11.8 kg
CME UF-70 76-Key Master Keyboard MIDI Controller Features:
* 76 keys semi-weighted action keyboard with aftertouch
* Pitch bend and modulation wheels
* 8 assignable control knobs, preset functions including Cutoff/Resonance/Attack/Release/PAN/Reverb/Chorus/Tempo
* 9 assignable control faders, preset functions including volume for 1-16 channels and master volume, and drawbar for organ sounds.
* LED data display, control button including program, transpose, octave, channel, keyboard split and 6 sequencer remote buttons, including REC, PLAY, STOP, FAST REWIND, REWIND AND RETURN TO START, etc.
* Breath controller port
* 1 MIDI out port
Extremely versatile MIDI control with wireless built right in!
The CME UF-70 76-Key Master Keyboard MIDI Controller brings together quality components with topnotch performance. You'll have professional control over all your soft synths and synth modules. The shimmering silver-cast aluminum body is durable and sleek, offering a stylish housing for the 76 synth-action, velocity-sensitive keys with aftertouch.
Like the other updated UF series MIDI controllers, the UF-70 has built-in duplex wireless MIDI interface with error correction function, class-compliant USB, a redesigned control panel, shortcut function keys, user template memory, all control components are freely assignable, the velocity curve has been increased, and aftertouch is now adjustable. The UF-70 also has scales and tuning control for Arabian and Asian music styles, as well as the U-CTRL music software auto-recognition system for instant control without templates or presets. The integrity of your performance is safeguarded by CME with increased continuous controller data density.
The UF-70 also has pitch and modulation wheels; 8 assignable knobs and 9 assignable sliders that also have preset functions; an LED display; and DAW transport controls. I/O includes a breath controller port, MIDI out, USB port, and an M-LAN-compatible FireWire audio expansion card, as well as an additional MIDI in on the expansion card. The USB connection can works as a USB/MIDI port and supplies power for the controller.
CME UF-70 76-Key Master Keyboard MIDI Controller Specifications:
* 1232 x 348 x 113 mm
* 11.8 kg
CME UF-70 76-Key Master Keyboard MIDI Controller Features:
* 76 keys semi-weighted action keyboard with aftertouch
* Pitch bend and modulation wheels
* 8 assignable control knobs, preset functions including Cutoff/Resonance/Attack/Release/PAN/Reverb/Chorus/Tempo
* 9 assignable control faders, preset functions including volume for 1-16 channels and master volume, and drawbar for organ sounds.
* LED data display, control button including program, transpose, octave, channel, keyboard split and 6 sequencer remote buttons, including REC, PLAY, STOP, FAST REWIND, REWIND AND RETURN TO START, etc.
* Breath controller port
* 1 MIDI out port
Korg M3 88-Key Workstation
Keyboard Gear

OASYS-inspired power comes to the M series!
Korg redefines the workstation keyboard category by distilling the power of their flagship OASYS into the M3! The powerful EDS (Enhanced Definition Synthesis) sound generator is derived from the OASYS' HD-1 engine design, and it also has advanced second-generation KARMA functionality in addition to a multi-purpose control surface. This M3 music workstation/sampler is an 88-key model that uses Korg's authentic RH3: Real Weighted Hammer Action 3 keyboard with zone graded action response for great playing feel and expressive aftertouch response.
Adding innovations such as the new concept of virtualized hardware that allows tighter integration with DAW systems, Drum Tracks which provide a instant groove to play along with, and the Korg Komponent System concept that facilitates more flexible system construction, the M3 music workstation/sampler opens an exciting page in music making.
Enhanced Definition Synthesis—a new horizon of sound-making potential
The M3 keyboard features a newly developed EDS sound generating system based on a chip design developed in parallel with the HD-1 engine from the flagship OASYS. It takes full advantage of the M3's 256MB of PCM source material.
Using Korg's advanced voicing technology, the 1,028 multisamples, 1,606 drum samples, dual oscillators, four-level velocity switching/crossfading/layering, and stereo sampling allow for an enormous range of high-quality, detailed, and expressive sounds.
The filter section lets you simultaneously use two resonant filters for each oscillator and can be configured in series or parallel. Four filter types are provided: low-pass, high-pass, band-pass, and band-reject.
The amp section features a driver circuit that gives the sound a sense of edge and character, along with low boost to help shake the walls when needed. Integrated 3-band EQ allows tonal sculpting without needing to go to the effects section. Detailed envelope generators, abundant modulation routings, and the all-new AMS Mixers give you advanced processing possibilities for an intense level of sound shaping.
Effects
The effect section provides up to five insert effects, two master effects, and one total effect. In addition to great choruses, flangers, phasers, delays and reverbs, the 170 effect types include dynamic processing effects such as compressor and limiter, amp modeling and speaker simulation effects using Korg's proprietary REMS modeling technology, and evocative effects like the Grain Shifter and Talking Modulator.
Funky drummer
The M3 provides a Drum Track function that adds a groove to each sound you play. Combined with KARMA, Drum Tracks make a single program a complete sonic adventure sure to inspire. You can select from over 500 patterns and start them with a dedicated button, from a desired region of the keyboard, or by playing a velocity above a specified threshold. Drum Tracks are driven by MIDI data and stored in a pattern format so you can create your own patterns in sequencer mode by recording them or importing them from SMF data or other user's songs. You can also convert recorded KARMA data as MIDI events for further manipulation or import sampled loops.
Expanded Combination Mode
Combination Mode lets you assign multiple Programs freely as splits and layers across the keyboard, including velocity switching and cross-fading for complex and expressive sounds. The M3 allows for sixteen timbres at the same time, including a Drum Track, up to four KARMA Modules, multiple effects, and much more. Each timbre has dedicated 3-band EQ for getting the perfect mix, and a powerful Tone Adjust setup for detailed in-context sound shaping.
Great sounds
The M3's international voicing team delivers the goods: stunningly realistic imitative sounds, fat synth sounds, imaginative textures, evocative sound effects—it's all here. The M3 comes loaded with 512 Programs and room for a total of 1,664 user sounds (13 banks plus GM). All sound locations are fully editable (except GM banks), so you are always free to tweak a sound if needed. Adding in the EXB-RADIAS option delivers 128 powerful MMT synthesis sounds. There are 32 drum kits provided, and room for a total of 144. As for the 16-part Combinations, 384 come preloaded, with room for a total of 1,792 (14 banks). All sounds (Programs and Combinations) are divided by category and subcategory making it easy to find and organize your sounds.
Second Generation KARMA
The second generation KARMA functionality that first appeared on the OASYS is fully implemented in the M3. KARMA is the inspiring, realtime music generation system that can help you play everything from natural instrument gestures like intricate fingerpicking, strumming, and harp glissandos, to complex cascades of notes, dance riffs, gated, and chopping effects, plus improvising drum grooves.
In Program Mode, one KARMA Generated Effect (GE) can be used, in Combi and Sequencer modes, four KARMA Modules are available simultaneously. Eight sliders, eight switches, and eight scenes provide dedicated realtime control and the ability to store complete snapshots of your settings.
The Control Surface can access and manipulate each module individually on its own Module Layer. In addition to the four individual Module Layers, there is a Master Layer that can be mapped to parameters from any of the modules, even grouping them together.
Finally, KARMA provides a signature sonic effect called Wave-Sequencing that can change a sound's waveforms rhythmically in realtime, along with everything else KARMA is doing, allowing each note to access a different waveform as it is generated. The results can resemble traditional wave-sequencing, or enter completely uncharted realms of sound design.
Ultimate expressive power
The color LCD of the M3 not only provides a touchview GUI that ensures intuitive and easy operation, but it also operates as an X-Y Pad, allowing sound and effect parameters to be controlled in realtime by sliding your finger across or tapping on the screen—much like the innovative Korg KAOSS Pad. Further control is provided by a Motion function that lets you capture and play back your finger moves to shape your sound and performance in unique ways. The screen even changes colors in response to the movement of your finger for visual feedback of your performance.
Eight dynamic, velocity-sensitive pads give you a great way to play drum sounds or up to eight-note chords, either live or as triggers for the powerful KARMA function.
The eight slider/eight switch control surface offers the same multifunctionality as on the OASYS: it can be used as a mixer, a set of expressive sound controls, an editing interface, a realtime KARMA performance interface, or to control external software and hardware synths and effects.
RADIAS inside
You can add an internal RADIAS analog modeling synthesizer sound generator board (one timbre, four parts, up to 24 voices), with onscreen integration of all its parameters and full integration with the M3's effects, control surface and KARMA functionality. The EXB-RADIAS offers the same vocoder as the RADIAS, offering 16 bands with individual control over level and panning. Formant Motion records the formant of a sung or spoken phrase so it can be recreated anytime.
Open Sampling
The M3's Open Sampling System lets you sample and resample in any mode to produce remixed combinations of sounds and effects, or to capture full performances In-Track within the sequencer. Cutting-edge editing tools include Time Slice, Time Stretch, Crossfade Looping, Rate Change and Normalize.
Stock sampling memory is 64MB, and can be increased to 320MB by adding the optional EXB-M256 memory expansion board. Samples in Korg native format, AIFF, WAV, Soundfont V2.0 and AKAI (S-1000/3000 with advanced Program parameter conversion) formats can be used.
Sampling can also be done to attached media, so USB memory sticks and hard drives can be used to extend memory size to resample a complete song as a WAV file to be burned to a USB CD-R/RW as an audio disc, or for moving to a computer for further editing and manipulation.
High-Resolution Sequencer
The sequencer that's at the heart of the M3's song production is an intuitive 16-track design that holds up to 128 songs and 210,000 notes. The high timing resolution of 480 PPQ captures every nuance and detail of your performance. Three-band EQ per track provides detailed sound-shaping, as does the Tone Adjust sound tweaking function.
The Cue List function has been a popular feature ever since the now-classic TRITON series. It lets you create songs in sections, or play back completed songs as a medley. All the now-classic Korg features are included, such as the one-touch Auto Song Setup feature, which takes you from playing a Program or Combination to ready-to-record status in one easy step.
Song Templates contain pre-assigned effect routings and program assignments—the M3 comes with 16 of these Song Templates, plus another 16 you can custom-tailor to your own needs. Each Template Song also provides a number of rhythm patterns—including intro, fills and endings—you can use to instantly create a rhythm track.
Realtime Pattern Play and Record (RPPR) can be used to assign sequenced Patterns to individual keys on the keyboard for an interactive performance, or to quickly build up tracks. You can record controller data, Sys. Ex., or even KARMA phrases and trigger them as you like.
Virtualized hardware
By connecting the M3 to your computer via USB and using the included stand-alone M3 Editor software, you can edit sounds and settings from your computer. A plug-in version of M3 Editor is also provided, so you can use it from within your DAW as a plug-in instrument. The editor runs as a VST, AU or RTAS plug-in for maximum compatibility. For even more complete integration, Korg's new "Virtualized Hardware" concept comes into play. When the optional EXB-FW FireWire board is installed, a single FireWire cable will convey both the M3's MIDI and audio signals to the tracks of your DAW in which the plug-in is running.
Korg Komponent System
The M3 music workstation/sampler introduces the Korg Komponent System, featuring detachable keyboard and sound generator sections. The 61-key model lets you mount a RADIAS-R analog modeling synthesizer instead of the M3-M sound generator, the 73-key model lets you mount the M3-M together with a RADIAS-R analog modeling synthesizer, and the 88-key model supports the combination of M3-M and RADIAS-R or even mounting two M3-M units simultaneously. Of course you can detach the M3-M sound generator and use it as a sound module, giving you great flexibility for constructing the system you need whenever you want.
A rich array of input/output jacks
The M3 offers two analog and two digital (S/P DIF) inputs. In addition to the main two-channel output (L/MONO, R), there are four independent outputs as well as two-channel digital output (24-bit optical S/P DIF). Two USB connectors are provided: a type-B USB connector for connection to your computer as a MIDI interface, and dual type-A connectors for connecting external storage media. USB 2.0 is supported to ensure high-speed transfer of large amounts of data.
The optional EXB-FW adds Firewire ports for conveying both audio and MIDI to your computer, and for daisy-chaining the M3 in your Firewire-based studio setup.
Three pedal inputs are provided, including damper jack support for half-damper sensing. The footswitch and footpedal jacks can be assigned to wide choice of functions including modulation, sostenuto, Program advance, punch-in recording and much more.
Korg M3 88-Key Music Workstation Keyboard Specifications:
* Frequency response: 20 Hz 20 kHz, +/-1.0 dB, 10 k Ohms load
* THD+N: 20 Hz 20 kHz, 0.08 % 10 k Ohms load (typical)
Dimensions
* Module: 26.50"(W) x 7.95"(D) x 3.23"(H)
* Keyboard and Module:
* 40"(W) x 14.65"(D) x 4.76"(H) (module down)
* 40"(W) x 14.65"(D) x 6.73"(H) (module up)
* Weight: 58.42 lbs (26.5 kg)
* Current Consumption: 35 Watts
System Requirements
* Computer with the KORG USB-MIDI Driver
Windows
* Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition/Professional Service Pack 2 or later (MIDI Driver for the 64-bit editions is a Beta version), all editions of Microsoft Windows Vista (MIDI Driver for the 64-bit editions is a Beta version), computer supports Windows XP/Vista with USB port (Intel USB Host Controller recommended).
Macintosh
* Mac OS X 10.3.9 or later, Apple Macintosh with USB ports supports Mac OS X 10.3.9 (PowerPC/Intel-based supported).
* M3 Editor/Plug-In Editor
Windows
* Windows XP Home Edition / Professional Service Pack 2 or later, Intel Pentium III/1 GHz or faster, 512 Mbyte or larger memory (1 Gbyte or larger recommended)
Macintosh
* Mac OS X 10.4 or later, G4/800 MHz or faster (Intel-based Mac supported, G5 and/or Core Duo recommended), 512 Mbyte or larger memory (1 Gbyte or larger recommended)
* Computer with the EXB-FW
Windows
* Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition / Professional Service Pack 2, computer supports Windows XP with Firewire port.
Macintosh
* Mac OS X 10.4 or later, Apple Macintosh with Firewire ports supports Mac OS X 10.4 (PowerPC/Intel-based supported).
Korg M3 88-Key Music Workstation Keyboard Features:
* Overview
* Keyboard - 88-key weighted action (RH3: Real Weighted Hammer Action 3 keyboard with zone graded action response)
* Controllers - Joystick, Ribbon Controller, [SW1], [SW2]
Interface
* TO MODULE (for connection to M3-M tone generator module)
* TO MODULE (second))
Display - 5.7 inch color TouchView GUI, 320 x 240 dot, X Y control function
* Control Inputs - Damper Pedal (half damper pedaling supported), Assignable Switch, Assignable Pedal
Synthesis Technology
* EDS (Enhanced Definition Synthesis)
* MMT (Multi Modeling Technology) sound generator can be added by installing the optional EXB-RADIAS
Tone Generator
* 256 Mbyte (when converted to 16-bit linear format)
* 1,032 Multisamples
* 1,606 Drum Samples
OASYS-inspired power comes to the M series!
Korg redefines the workstation keyboard category by distilling the power of their flagship OASYS into the M3! The powerful EDS (Enhanced Definition Synthesis) sound generator is derived from the OASYS' HD-1 engine design, and it also has advanced second-generation KARMA functionality in addition to a multi-purpose control surface. This M3 music workstation/sampler is an 88-key model that uses Korg's authentic RH3: Real Weighted Hammer Action 3 keyboard with zone graded action response for great playing feel and expressive aftertouch response.
Adding innovations such as the new concept of virtualized hardware that allows tighter integration with DAW systems, Drum Tracks which provide a instant groove to play along with, and the Korg Komponent System concept that facilitates more flexible system construction, the M3 music workstation/sampler opens an exciting page in music making.
Enhanced Definition Synthesis—a new horizon of sound-making potential
The M3 keyboard features a newly developed EDS sound generating system based on a chip design developed in parallel with the HD-1 engine from the flagship OASYS. It takes full advantage of the M3's 256MB of PCM source material.
Using Korg's advanced voicing technology, the 1,028 multisamples, 1,606 drum samples, dual oscillators, four-level velocity switching/crossfading/layering, and stereo sampling allow for an enormous range of high-quality, detailed, and expressive sounds.
The filter section lets you simultaneously use two resonant filters for each oscillator and can be configured in series or parallel. Four filter types are provided: low-pass, high-pass, band-pass, and band-reject.
The amp section features a driver circuit that gives the sound a sense of edge and character, along with low boost to help shake the walls when needed. Integrated 3-band EQ allows tonal sculpting without needing to go to the effects section. Detailed envelope generators, abundant modulation routings, and the all-new AMS Mixers give you advanced processing possibilities for an intense level of sound shaping.
Effects
The effect section provides up to five insert effects, two master effects, and one total effect. In addition to great choruses, flangers, phasers, delays and reverbs, the 170 effect types include dynamic processing effects such as compressor and limiter, amp modeling and speaker simulation effects using Korg's proprietary REMS modeling technology, and evocative effects like the Grain Shifter and Talking Modulator.
Funky drummer
The M3 provides a Drum Track function that adds a groove to each sound you play. Combined with KARMA, Drum Tracks make a single program a complete sonic adventure sure to inspire. You can select from over 500 patterns and start them with a dedicated button, from a desired region of the keyboard, or by playing a velocity above a specified threshold. Drum Tracks are driven by MIDI data and stored in a pattern format so you can create your own patterns in sequencer mode by recording them or importing them from SMF data or other user's songs. You can also convert recorded KARMA data as MIDI events for further manipulation or import sampled loops.
Expanded Combination Mode
Combination Mode lets you assign multiple Programs freely as splits and layers across the keyboard, including velocity switching and cross-fading for complex and expressive sounds. The M3 allows for sixteen timbres at the same time, including a Drum Track, up to four KARMA Modules, multiple effects, and much more. Each timbre has dedicated 3-band EQ for getting the perfect mix, and a powerful Tone Adjust setup for detailed in-context sound shaping.
Great sounds
The M3's international voicing team delivers the goods: stunningly realistic imitative sounds, fat synth sounds, imaginative textures, evocative sound effects—it's all here. The M3 comes loaded with 512 Programs and room for a total of 1,664 user sounds (13 banks plus GM). All sound locations are fully editable (except GM banks), so you are always free to tweak a sound if needed. Adding in the EXB-RADIAS option delivers 128 powerful MMT synthesis sounds. There are 32 drum kits provided, and room for a total of 144. As for the 16-part Combinations, 384 come preloaded, with room for a total of 1,792 (14 banks). All sounds (Programs and Combinations) are divided by category and subcategory making it easy to find and organize your sounds.
Second Generation KARMA
The second generation KARMA functionality that first appeared on the OASYS is fully implemented in the M3. KARMA is the inspiring, realtime music generation system that can help you play everything from natural instrument gestures like intricate fingerpicking, strumming, and harp glissandos, to complex cascades of notes, dance riffs, gated, and chopping effects, plus improvising drum grooves.
In Program Mode, one KARMA Generated Effect (GE) can be used, in Combi and Sequencer modes, four KARMA Modules are available simultaneously. Eight sliders, eight switches, and eight scenes provide dedicated realtime control and the ability to store complete snapshots of your settings.
The Control Surface can access and manipulate each module individually on its own Module Layer. In addition to the four individual Module Layers, there is a Master Layer that can be mapped to parameters from any of the modules, even grouping them together.
Finally, KARMA provides a signature sonic effect called Wave-Sequencing that can change a sound's waveforms rhythmically in realtime, along with everything else KARMA is doing, allowing each note to access a different waveform as it is generated. The results can resemble traditional wave-sequencing, or enter completely uncharted realms of sound design.
Ultimate expressive power
The color LCD of the M3 not only provides a touchview GUI that ensures intuitive and easy operation, but it also operates as an X-Y Pad, allowing sound and effect parameters to be controlled in realtime by sliding your finger across or tapping on the screen—much like the innovative Korg KAOSS Pad. Further control is provided by a Motion function that lets you capture and play back your finger moves to shape your sound and performance in unique ways. The screen even changes colors in response to the movement of your finger for visual feedback of your performance.
Eight dynamic, velocity-sensitive pads give you a great way to play drum sounds or up to eight-note chords, either live or as triggers for the powerful KARMA function.
The eight slider/eight switch control surface offers the same multifunctionality as on the OASYS: it can be used as a mixer, a set of expressive sound controls, an editing interface, a realtime KARMA performance interface, or to control external software and hardware synths and effects.
RADIAS inside
You can add an internal RADIAS analog modeling synthesizer sound generator board (one timbre, four parts, up to 24 voices), with onscreen integration of all its parameters and full integration with the M3's effects, control surface and KARMA functionality. The EXB-RADIAS offers the same vocoder as the RADIAS, offering 16 bands with individual control over level and panning. Formant Motion records the formant of a sung or spoken phrase so it can be recreated anytime.
Open Sampling
The M3's Open Sampling System lets you sample and resample in any mode to produce remixed combinations of sounds and effects, or to capture full performances In-Track within the sequencer. Cutting-edge editing tools include Time Slice, Time Stretch, Crossfade Looping, Rate Change and Normalize.
Stock sampling memory is 64MB, and can be increased to 320MB by adding the optional EXB-M256 memory expansion board. Samples in Korg native format, AIFF, WAV, Soundfont V2.0 and AKAI (S-1000/3000 with advanced Program parameter conversion) formats can be used.
Sampling can also be done to attached media, so USB memory sticks and hard drives can be used to extend memory size to resample a complete song as a WAV file to be burned to a USB CD-R/RW as an audio disc, or for moving to a computer for further editing and manipulation.
High-Resolution Sequencer
The sequencer that's at the heart of the M3's song production is an intuitive 16-track design that holds up to 128 songs and 210,000 notes. The high timing resolution of 480 PPQ captures every nuance and detail of your performance. Three-band EQ per track provides detailed sound-shaping, as does the Tone Adjust sound tweaking function.
The Cue List function has been a popular feature ever since the now-classic TRITON series. It lets you create songs in sections, or play back completed songs as a medley. All the now-classic Korg features are included, such as the one-touch Auto Song Setup feature, which takes you from playing a Program or Combination to ready-to-record status in one easy step.
Song Templates contain pre-assigned effect routings and program assignments—the M3 comes with 16 of these Song Templates, plus another 16 you can custom-tailor to your own needs. Each Template Song also provides a number of rhythm patterns—including intro, fills and endings—you can use to instantly create a rhythm track.
Realtime Pattern Play and Record (RPPR) can be used to assign sequenced Patterns to individual keys on the keyboard for an interactive performance, or to quickly build up tracks. You can record controller data, Sys. Ex., or even KARMA phrases and trigger them as you like.
Virtualized hardware
By connecting the M3 to your computer via USB and using the included stand-alone M3 Editor software, you can edit sounds and settings from your computer. A plug-in version of M3 Editor is also provided, so you can use it from within your DAW as a plug-in instrument. The editor runs as a VST, AU or RTAS plug-in for maximum compatibility. For even more complete integration, Korg's new "Virtualized Hardware" concept comes into play. When the optional EXB-FW FireWire board is installed, a single FireWire cable will convey both the M3's MIDI and audio signals to the tracks of your DAW in which the plug-in is running.
Korg Komponent System
The M3 music workstation/sampler introduces the Korg Komponent System, featuring detachable keyboard and sound generator sections. The 61-key model lets you mount a RADIAS-R analog modeling synthesizer instead of the M3-M sound generator, the 73-key model lets you mount the M3-M together with a RADIAS-R analog modeling synthesizer, and the 88-key model supports the combination of M3-M and RADIAS-R or even mounting two M3-M units simultaneously. Of course you can detach the M3-M sound generator and use it as a sound module, giving you great flexibility for constructing the system you need whenever you want.
A rich array of input/output jacks
The M3 offers two analog and two digital (S/P DIF) inputs. In addition to the main two-channel output (L/MONO, R), there are four independent outputs as well as two-channel digital output (24-bit optical S/P DIF). Two USB connectors are provided: a type-B USB connector for connection to your computer as a MIDI interface, and dual type-A connectors for connecting external storage media. USB 2.0 is supported to ensure high-speed transfer of large amounts of data.
The optional EXB-FW adds Firewire ports for conveying both audio and MIDI to your computer, and for daisy-chaining the M3 in your Firewire-based studio setup.
Three pedal inputs are provided, including damper jack support for half-damper sensing. The footswitch and footpedal jacks can be assigned to wide choice of functions including modulation, sostenuto, Program advance, punch-in recording and much more.
Korg M3 88-Key Music Workstation Keyboard Specifications:
* Frequency response: 20 Hz 20 kHz, +/-1.0 dB, 10 k Ohms load
* THD+N: 20 Hz 20 kHz, 0.08 % 10 k Ohms load (typical)
Dimensions
* Module: 26.50"(W) x 7.95"(D) x 3.23"(H)
* Keyboard and Module:
* 40"(W) x 14.65"(D) x 4.76"(H) (module down)
* 40"(W) x 14.65"(D) x 6.73"(H) (module up)
* Weight: 58.42 lbs (26.5 kg)
* Current Consumption: 35 Watts
System Requirements
* Computer with the KORG USB-MIDI Driver
Windows
* Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition/Professional Service Pack 2 or later (MIDI Driver for the 64-bit editions is a Beta version), all editions of Microsoft Windows Vista (MIDI Driver for the 64-bit editions is a Beta version), computer supports Windows XP/Vista with USB port (Intel USB Host Controller recommended).
Macintosh
* Mac OS X 10.3.9 or later, Apple Macintosh with USB ports supports Mac OS X 10.3.9 (PowerPC/Intel-based supported).
* M3 Editor/Plug-In Editor
Windows
* Windows XP Home Edition / Professional Service Pack 2 or later, Intel Pentium III/1 GHz or faster, 512 Mbyte or larger memory (1 Gbyte or larger recommended)
Macintosh
* Mac OS X 10.4 or later, G4/800 MHz or faster (Intel-based Mac supported, G5 and/or Core Duo recommended), 512 Mbyte or larger memory (1 Gbyte or larger recommended)
* Computer with the EXB-FW
Windows
* Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition / Professional Service Pack 2, computer supports Windows XP with Firewire port.
Macintosh
* Mac OS X 10.4 or later, Apple Macintosh with Firewire ports supports Mac OS X 10.4 (PowerPC/Intel-based supported).
Korg M3 88-Key Music Workstation Keyboard Features:
* Overview
* Keyboard - 88-key weighted action (RH3: Real Weighted Hammer Action 3 keyboard with zone graded action response)
* Controllers - Joystick, Ribbon Controller, [SW1], [SW2]
Interface
* TO MODULE (for connection to M3-M tone generator module)
* TO MODULE (second))
Display - 5.7 inch color TouchView GUI, 320 x 240 dot, X Y control function
* Control Inputs - Damper Pedal (half damper pedaling supported), Assignable Switch, Assignable Pedal
Synthesis Technology
* EDS (Enhanced Definition Synthesis)
* MMT (Multi Modeling Technology) sound generator can be added by installing the optional EXB-RADIAS
Tone Generator
* 256 Mbyte (when converted to 16-bit linear format)
* 1,032 Multisamples
* 1,606 Drum Samples
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Guitar Center Coupon
Guitar Center Coupon: Receive $20 off of $200, expires 9/27/2007

Coupon Code: Type GC20 at checkout and get $20 off any purchase of $200+ on ALL items in stock
COUPON FOR $20 OFF $200 or MORE
Use code GC20 to get $20 off your purchase of $200 or more on in-stock merchandise at Guitar Center. Offer not good with some brands.
Expires September 27, 2007.
CODE: GC20
Start Date: 9/19/2007
End Date: 9/27/2007
Coupon Code: Type GC20 at checkout and get $20 off any purchase of $200+ on ALL items in stock
COUPON FOR $20 OFF $200 or MORE
Use code GC20 to get $20 off your purchase of $200 or more on in-stock merchandise at Guitar Center. Offer not good with some brands.
Expires September 27, 2007.
CODE: GC20
Start Date: 9/19/2007
End Date: 9/27/2007
Monday, September 17, 2007
Musician's Friend Coupon Code
Musician's Friend Coupon Code

Coupon Code:
Save $20 off any purchase of $200 or more at Musician's Friend with code: AF20. Expires 9/27/2007 (Coupon good for in stock items only.)
Musician's Friend Coupon Code
Coupon Code:
Save $20 off any purchase of $200 or more at Musician's Friend with code: AF20. Expires 9/27/2007 (Coupon good for in stock items only.)
Musician's Friend Coupon Code
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Musician's Friend: Save Extra 10% on Scratch N Dents!
Musician's Friend: Save Extra 10% on Scratch N Dents!
For a limited time save an extra 10% on gear in every category with minor cosmetic flaws, all guaranteed to work as new. You'll find your favorite brands among the stellar gear. Be sure to check back often as we're continually adding new items.
Thursday, September 06, 2007
Guitar Center is dropping its prices on shipping
Wednesday, September 05, 2007
Saturday, September 01, 2007
GuitarCenter.com
Incredible Savings in Stores
Head to Guitar Center this Labor Day and get your hands on The List – the ultimate guide to the greatest savings of the year. Save on floor models, closeouts, used gear, returns, scratch n' dents and more, at prices so low they can't be advertised. Plus, one-day-only deals on over a quarter-billion-dollars worth of new gear from top manufacturers like Gibson, Fender, Marshall, DW, Sabian, Yamaha, Roland, and more – all tagged to move out the door by 5pm Monday.
The savings start at 8am. Get there early – the best deals go first!
Online Deals
Visit GuitarCenter.com starting at 8am Eastern on September 3rd and take advantage of great online deals:
* Closeouts
* Refurbished Gear
* Huge savings on all the gear you need
Buy online and don't miss your chance to save this Labor Day!
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Musician's Friend Keyboards on Sale
Musician's Friend Keyboards on Sale

Yamaha MOTIF XS8 Music Production Synthesizer Workstation Keyboard
The MOTIF XS8 is a powerhouse 88-key synth workstation from Yamaha. It comes with a mind-blowing 355MB of wave ROM which combines with the Expanded...
Price: $3,199.00
List Price: $3,999.00
Rating: Overall: 9.56 Includes a free gift!
Top
Roland Fantom-X8 88-Key Sampling Workstation
The Roland Fantom-X8 88-Key Sampling Workstation gives you 88 full-sized keys with Progressive Hammer Action, 128 voices and seamless integration of...
Price: $2,995.00
List Price: $3,599.00
Rating: Overall: 9.65 Includes a free gift! $-Rebate Offer
Top
Yamaha MOTIF ES8 88-Key Music Production Synthesizer
The Yamaha MOTIF ES8 88-Key Music Production Synthesizer features a huge 175MB wave ROM, an enhanced soundset of 1,859 waveforms for the MOTIF's...
Price: $2,299.00
List Price: $3,499.00
Rating: Overall: 9.62
Top
Roland Fantom-X6 61-Key Sampling Workstation
The Roland Fantom-X6 61-Key Sampling Workstation has 61 full-sized keys, 128 voices, and seamless integration of audio and MIDI. And you get...
Price: $1,995.00 Item Ships Free!
List Price: $2,395.00
Rating: Overall: 9.57 Includes a free gift! $-Rebate Offer
Group Shot
Korg MicroKORG Synthesizer/Vocoder
With 37 keys and 128 user-rewritable programs, the Korg MicroKORG Synthesizer/Vocoder is perfect for the musician looking for a serious yet...
Price: $399.00 Item Ships Free!
List Price: $500.00
Rating: Overall: 8.96
Top
Yamaha MM6 Music Synthesizer
The Yamaha MM6 Music Synthesizer is a 61-key synth with 418 voices and 22 onboard drum kits (plus an extra set of GM voices) combined with lots of...
Price: $599.00 Item Ships Free!
List Price: $699.00
Rating: Overall: 9.21 Includes a free gift!
Top
Yamaha MOTIF ES7 76-Key Music Production Synthesizer
The Yamaha MOTIF ES7 76-Key Music Production Synthesizer features the largest wave ROM of any workstation keyboard: 175MB! An enhanced soundset of...
Price: $1,799.99 Item Ships Free!
List Price: $2,999.00
Rating: Overall: 9.68 Includes a free gift!
Top
Yamaha MOTIF XS7 Music Production Synthesizer Workstation Keyboard
The MOTIF XS7 is a powerhouse 76-key synth workstation from Yamaha. It comes with a mind-blowing 355MB of wave ROM which combines with the Expanded...
Price: $2,799.00 Item Ships Free!
List Price: $3,539.00
Rating: Overall: 8.00 Includes a free gift!
Top
Yamaha MOTIF XS6 Music Production Synthesizer Workstation Keyboard
The MOTIF XS6 is a powerhouse 61-key synth workstation from Yamaha. It comes with a mind-blowing 355MB of wave ROM which combines with the Expanded...
Price: $2,199.00
List Price: $2,799.00
Rating: Overall: 9.08 Includes a free gift!
Top
Yamaha MOTIF ES6 61-Key Music Production Synthesizer
The Yamaha MOTIF ES6 61-Key Music Production Synthesizer is armed with a huge 175MB wave ROM and an enhanced soundset of 1,859 waveforms for the...
Price: $1,299.99
List Price: $2,399.00
Rating: Overall: 9.50
Left-facing
Moog Little Phatty Analog Synthesizer - Tribute Edition
The Little Phatty analog synth was designed to bring you the expressive, intuitive playability and timeless quality of a Moog Analog Synthesizer in a...
Price: $1,379.99 Item Ships Free!
List Price: $1,475.00
Rating: Overall: 8.78
Top
Yamaha MO8 88-Key Music Production Synthesizer Workstation with DAW Control
The MO8 delivers Yamaha's powerful MOTIF synth engine functions and sounds in a compact, affordable workstation. Plus, it doubles as a powerful...
Price: $1,599.99 Item Ships Free!
List Price: $1,999.00
Rating: Overall: 9.04 Includes a free gift!
Top
Roland Fantom-X7 76-Key Sampling Workstation
The Roland Fantom-X7 76-Key Sampling Workstation has produced a lot of the sounds you've heard on commercial music tracks. 76 full-sized keys, 128...
Price: $2,495.00 Item Ships Free!
List Price: $2,999.00
Rating: Overall: 9.84 Includes a free gift! $-Rebate Offer
Top
Korg TR-88 88-Key Keyboard Workstation
The stellar performance of the TR-88 88-key workstation starts with Korg's proven Hyper Integrated sound engine the synthesis system that has made...
Price: $1,599.00
List Price: $2,499.00
Yamaha MOTIF XS8 Music Production Synthesizer Workstation Keyboard
The MOTIF XS8 is a powerhouse 88-key synth workstation from Yamaha. It comes with a mind-blowing 355MB of wave ROM which combines with the Expanded...
Price: $3,199.00
List Price: $3,999.00
Rating: Overall: 9.56 Includes a free gift!
Top
Roland Fantom-X8 88-Key Sampling Workstation
The Roland Fantom-X8 88-Key Sampling Workstation gives you 88 full-sized keys with Progressive Hammer Action, 128 voices and seamless integration of...
Price: $2,995.00
List Price: $3,599.00
Rating: Overall: 9.65 Includes a free gift! $-Rebate Offer
Top
Yamaha MOTIF ES8 88-Key Music Production Synthesizer
The Yamaha MOTIF ES8 88-Key Music Production Synthesizer features a huge 175MB wave ROM, an enhanced soundset of 1,859 waveforms for the MOTIF's...
Price: $2,299.00
List Price: $3,499.00
Rating: Overall: 9.62
Top
Roland Fantom-X6 61-Key Sampling Workstation
The Roland Fantom-X6 61-Key Sampling Workstation has 61 full-sized keys, 128 voices, and seamless integration of audio and MIDI. And you get...
Price: $1,995.00 Item Ships Free!
List Price: $2,395.00
Rating: Overall: 9.57 Includes a free gift! $-Rebate Offer
Group Shot
Korg MicroKORG Synthesizer/Vocoder
With 37 keys and 128 user-rewritable programs, the Korg MicroKORG Synthesizer/Vocoder is perfect for the musician looking for a serious yet...
Price: $399.00 Item Ships Free!
List Price: $500.00
Rating: Overall: 8.96
Top
Yamaha MM6 Music Synthesizer
The Yamaha MM6 Music Synthesizer is a 61-key synth with 418 voices and 22 onboard drum kits (plus an extra set of GM voices) combined with lots of...
Price: $599.00 Item Ships Free!
List Price: $699.00
Rating: Overall: 9.21 Includes a free gift!
Top
Yamaha MOTIF ES7 76-Key Music Production Synthesizer
The Yamaha MOTIF ES7 76-Key Music Production Synthesizer features the largest wave ROM of any workstation keyboard: 175MB! An enhanced soundset of...
Price: $1,799.99 Item Ships Free!
List Price: $2,999.00
Rating: Overall: 9.68 Includes a free gift!
Top
Yamaha MOTIF XS7 Music Production Synthesizer Workstation Keyboard
The MOTIF XS7 is a powerhouse 76-key synth workstation from Yamaha. It comes with a mind-blowing 355MB of wave ROM which combines with the Expanded...
Price: $2,799.00 Item Ships Free!
List Price: $3,539.00
Rating: Overall: 8.00 Includes a free gift!
Top
Yamaha MOTIF XS6 Music Production Synthesizer Workstation Keyboard
The MOTIF XS6 is a powerhouse 61-key synth workstation from Yamaha. It comes with a mind-blowing 355MB of wave ROM which combines with the Expanded...
Price: $2,199.00
List Price: $2,799.00
Rating: Overall: 9.08 Includes a free gift!
Top
Yamaha MOTIF ES6 61-Key Music Production Synthesizer
The Yamaha MOTIF ES6 61-Key Music Production Synthesizer is armed with a huge 175MB wave ROM and an enhanced soundset of 1,859 waveforms for the...
Price: $1,299.99
List Price: $2,399.00
Rating: Overall: 9.50
Left-facing
Moog Little Phatty Analog Synthesizer - Tribute Edition
The Little Phatty analog synth was designed to bring you the expressive, intuitive playability and timeless quality of a Moog Analog Synthesizer in a...
Price: $1,379.99 Item Ships Free!
List Price: $1,475.00
Rating: Overall: 8.78
Top
Yamaha MO8 88-Key Music Production Synthesizer Workstation with DAW Control
The MO8 delivers Yamaha's powerful MOTIF synth engine functions and sounds in a compact, affordable workstation. Plus, it doubles as a powerful...
Price: $1,599.99 Item Ships Free!
List Price: $1,999.00
Rating: Overall: 9.04 Includes a free gift!
Top
Roland Fantom-X7 76-Key Sampling Workstation
The Roland Fantom-X7 76-Key Sampling Workstation has produced a lot of the sounds you've heard on commercial music tracks. 76 full-sized keys, 128...
Price: $2,495.00 Item Ships Free!
List Price: $2,999.00
Rating: Overall: 9.84 Includes a free gift! $-Rebate Offer
Top
Korg TR-88 88-Key Keyboard Workstation
The stellar performance of the TR-88 88-key workstation starts with Korg's proven Hyper Integrated sound engine the synthesis system that has made...
Price: $1,599.00
List Price: $2,499.00
Thursday, August 16, 2007
Yamaha YPG-525 - $499.99
Keyboard Gear

$499.99 -or- $15/mo. - Apply!
List Price: $899.99 Savings: $400.00(44%)
The realism and expressiveness of an actual piano, with advanced performance and music-creation features.
The YPG-525, part of Yamaha's Portable Grand series of keyboards, boasts a total of 500 realistic instrument voices including 12 drum/SFX kits and 150 accompaniment styles. 88 lightly weighted keys make for natural, expressive playing. A music database holds 267 song records for instantly setting the entire instrument to a specific genre.
The USB to HOST terminal provides simple computer connectivity, while the USB to DEVICE jack provides convenient memory stick storage and supports playing standard MIDI data. 16-part multitimbral capability for sequencer recording applications and comprehensive recording functions that allow you to craft your own songs with ease make the YPG-525 your perfect musical partner.
Yamaha YPG-525 88-Key Portable Grand Keyboard Features:
* 88-key lightly-weighted keyboard for natural, expressive playing
* Authentic, super-expressive Live!, Cool!, and Sweet! voices plus full XGlite sound
* Total of 500 realistic instrument voices (including 12 Drum/SFX kits) and 150 accompaniment styles
* USB to HOST terminal for quick and easy computer connection
* USB to DEVICE terminal for convenient memory stick storage and easily playing standard MIDI data
* Music database with 267 song records for instantly setting the entire instrument to match a desired genre
* 16-part multitimbral capability for sequencer recording applications
* Comprehensive song recording functions
* Easy Song Arranger feature and Performance Assistant technology with score and lyric information displayed
$499.99 -or- $15/mo. - Apply!
List Price: $899.99 Savings: $400.00(44%)
The realism and expressiveness of an actual piano, with advanced performance and music-creation features.
The YPG-525, part of Yamaha's Portable Grand series of keyboards, boasts a total of 500 realistic instrument voices including 12 drum/SFX kits and 150 accompaniment styles. 88 lightly weighted keys make for natural, expressive playing. A music database holds 267 song records for instantly setting the entire instrument to a specific genre.
The USB to HOST terminal provides simple computer connectivity, while the USB to DEVICE jack provides convenient memory stick storage and supports playing standard MIDI data. 16-part multitimbral capability for sequencer recording applications and comprehensive recording functions that allow you to craft your own songs with ease make the YPG-525 your perfect musical partner.
Yamaha YPG-525 88-Key Portable Grand Keyboard Features:
* 88-key lightly-weighted keyboard for natural, expressive playing
* Authentic, super-expressive Live!, Cool!, and Sweet! voices plus full XGlite sound
* Total of 500 realistic instrument voices (including 12 Drum/SFX kits) and 150 accompaniment styles
* USB to HOST terminal for quick and easy computer connection
* USB to DEVICE terminal for convenient memory stick storage and easily playing standard MIDI data
* Music database with 267 song records for instantly setting the entire instrument to match a desired genre
* 16-part multitimbral capability for sequencer recording applications
* Comprehensive song recording functions
* Easy Song Arranger feature and Performance Assistant technology with score and lyric information displayed
Casio AP-24 - $599.99
Keyboard Gear

$599.99 -or- $18/mo. - Apply!
List Price: $1,499.99 Savings: $900.00(60%)
Attractive wood cabinet houses expressive piano sound and feel.
The AP-24 has 88 realistically scaled hammer-action keys, graded from heavier in the lower registers to lighter in the higher region with 3 levels of touch sensitivity. The HL Sound Source tone generator produces a dual-element waveform that increases the responsiveness and expressiveness of the sounds and uses meticulously recorded samples of a full concert grand piano for stunning sounds. All of the AP-24's sounds are enhanced by a stereo sound system, as well as reverb and chorus effects.
The AP-24 also offers 32-note polyphony, 10 tones, layer and split functions, a metronome, a recording function, key transpose, and tuning control. It also has 2 separate jacks for dedicated damper and soft/sostenuto pedals, MIDI I/O, dual headphone jacks, and a sliding keyboard cover. All in an attractive cabinet that makes the Celviano an easy choice for those looking for a stylish home unit.
Casio Celviano AP-24 Digital Piano Features:
* Wood cabinet with stand and modesty panel
* Sliding key cover
* 88 full-size, touch-sensitive keys with scaled hammer action
* 3 levels of touch-sensitivity control
* Powerful HL Sound Source sound engine
* Stereo-sampled piano sounds
* Dual-element waveform sounds
* 8 tones
* 5 digital effects
* 2 headphone jacks (teacher/student)
* Stereo speakers (dual 4" speakers, 20W each)
* Split/layer keyboard function
* Tuning and transpose function
* Metronome
* Song memory: 1 track x 1 song, up to 2500 notes
* MIDI I/O
* 2 pedals (damper and soft/sosentuto)
* AC power only (power cord included)
$599.99 -or- $18/mo. - Apply!
List Price: $1,499.99 Savings: $900.00(60%)
Attractive wood cabinet houses expressive piano sound and feel.
The AP-24 has 88 realistically scaled hammer-action keys, graded from heavier in the lower registers to lighter in the higher region with 3 levels of touch sensitivity. The HL Sound Source tone generator produces a dual-element waveform that increases the responsiveness and expressiveness of the sounds and uses meticulously recorded samples of a full concert grand piano for stunning sounds. All of the AP-24's sounds are enhanced by a stereo sound system, as well as reverb and chorus effects.
The AP-24 also offers 32-note polyphony, 10 tones, layer and split functions, a metronome, a recording function, key transpose, and tuning control. It also has 2 separate jacks for dedicated damper and soft/sostenuto pedals, MIDI I/O, dual headphone jacks, and a sliding keyboard cover. All in an attractive cabinet that makes the Celviano an easy choice for those looking for a stylish home unit.
Casio Celviano AP-24 Digital Piano Features:
* Wood cabinet with stand and modesty panel
* Sliding key cover
* 88 full-size, touch-sensitive keys with scaled hammer action
* 3 levels of touch-sensitivity control
* Powerful HL Sound Source sound engine
* Stereo-sampled piano sounds
* Dual-element waveform sounds
* 8 tones
* 5 digital effects
* 2 headphone jacks (teacher/student)
* Stereo speakers (dual 4" speakers, 20W each)
* Split/layer keyboard function
* Tuning and transpose function
* Metronome
* Song memory: 1 track x 1 song, up to 2500 notes
* MIDI I/O
* 2 pedals (damper and soft/sosentuto)
* AC power only (power cord included)
MOTIF ES7 $1899.99 - Save $1100
Keyboard Gear

$1,799.99 -or- $54/mo. - Apply!
List Price: $2,999.00 Savings: $1199.01(39%)
Unprecedented performance and expressive control.
The Yamaha MOTIF ES7 76-Key Music Production Synthesizer features the largest wave ROM of any workstation keyboard: 175MB! An enhanced soundset of 1,859 waveforms provides the foundation for the Motif's 1024 voices plus 65 drum kits. A newly designed tone generator chip offers true 128-note polyphony, and a newly developed synth engine provides new parameters and faster, more precise envelope control. An enhanced effects system includes 20 reverb types and 49 chorus/delay types, 8 types of mastering effects including multiband compression, and a 5-band master EQ. It houses an advanced Phrase Factory arpeggiator with realtime loop remix capability plus parameters such as Swing, Velocity, and Quantize so you can easily modify preset arps. Overall expressiveness of the instrument has been expanded with the new "Mega Voice system, a technology that makes it possible to include all the nuances of an instrument in the sample. Motif ES integrates seamlessly with DAWs via its USB connection to function as a control surface. It also has a USB To Device port for connection to USB storage devices.
Yamaha MOTIF ES7 76-Key Music Production Synthesizer Specifications:
* Keyboard:
* 76 keys, FS Keyboard (Initial Touch/Aftertouch)
Tone Generator:
* AWM2 (complying with the Modular Synthesis Plug-in System)
Polyphony:
* 128 notes + the polyphony of the Plug-in Board (if installed)
Multi Timbral Capacity:
* 16 parts (internal) + 3 or more Plug-in Board parts (1 for each Single Plug-in Board; 16 for Multi Plug-in Board), Audio Input parts (A/D, AIEB2, mLAN*) * 4 stereo parts
Wave:
* 175MB (when converted to 16- bit linear format), 1859 waveforms
Voices:
* Preset: 768 normal voices + 64 drum kits
* GM: 128 normal voices + 1 drum kit
* User: 128 x 2 (Bank 1: Original, Bank 2: Picked up from Preset) normal voice + 32 drum kits
* Plug-in Preset: PLG150-AN/DX/PF/DR/PC: 64, PLG150-VL: 192
* Plug-in User: 64 for each Plug-in slot
Plug-in Voices:
* Preset for the PLG150-AN/DX/PF/DR/PC: 64
* Preset for the PLG150-VL: 192
* User: 64 for each Plug-in slot
Performances:
* 128 User (up to 4 parts)
Filter:
* 18 types
Effect System:
* Reverb: 20 types
* Chorus: 49 types
* Insertion: (A,B) x 116 types x 8 blocks
* Master Effect: 8 types
* Master Equalizer: 5 bands
* Part EQ: 3 bands, stereo
* Plug-in Insertion: Available when the PLG100-VH has been installed into slot 1
Expandability:
* 3 slots for Modular Synthesis Plug-in Boards
Samples:
* Up to 1024 Waveforms (Multi Samples)
* Up to 128 Key Banks per Waveform
* Up to 4096 Key Banks
Sampling Sources:
* Analog input L/R
* Stereo output (Resampling)
* Digital/Optical (available when the AIEB2 has been installed)
* mLAN (available when the mLAN16E has been installed)
A/D Conversion:
* 20 bit, 64 x oversampling
D/A Conversion:
* 24 bit, 128 x oversampling
Sampling Data Bits:
* 16
$1,799.99 -or- $54/mo. - Apply!
List Price: $2,999.00 Savings: $1199.01(39%)
Unprecedented performance and expressive control.
The Yamaha MOTIF ES7 76-Key Music Production Synthesizer features the largest wave ROM of any workstation keyboard: 175MB! An enhanced soundset of 1,859 waveforms provides the foundation for the Motif's 1024 voices plus 65 drum kits. A newly designed tone generator chip offers true 128-note polyphony, and a newly developed synth engine provides new parameters and faster, more precise envelope control. An enhanced effects system includes 20 reverb types and 49 chorus/delay types, 8 types of mastering effects including multiband compression, and a 5-band master EQ. It houses an advanced Phrase Factory arpeggiator with realtime loop remix capability plus parameters such as Swing, Velocity, and Quantize so you can easily modify preset arps. Overall expressiveness of the instrument has been expanded with the new "Mega Voice system, a technology that makes it possible to include all the nuances of an instrument in the sample. Motif ES integrates seamlessly with DAWs via its USB connection to function as a control surface. It also has a USB To Device port for connection to USB storage devices.
Yamaha MOTIF ES7 76-Key Music Production Synthesizer Specifications:
* Keyboard:
* 76 keys, FS Keyboard (Initial Touch/Aftertouch)
Tone Generator:
* AWM2 (complying with the Modular Synthesis Plug-in System)
Polyphony:
* 128 notes + the polyphony of the Plug-in Board (if installed)
Multi Timbral Capacity:
* 16 parts (internal) + 3 or more Plug-in Board parts (1 for each Single Plug-in Board; 16 for Multi Plug-in Board), Audio Input parts (A/D, AIEB2, mLAN*) * 4 stereo parts
Wave:
* 175MB (when converted to 16- bit linear format), 1859 waveforms
Voices:
* Preset: 768 normal voices + 64 drum kits
* GM: 128 normal voices + 1 drum kit
* User: 128 x 2 (Bank 1: Original, Bank 2: Picked up from Preset) normal voice + 32 drum kits
* Plug-in Preset: PLG150-AN/DX/PF/DR/PC: 64, PLG150-VL: 192
* Plug-in User: 64 for each Plug-in slot
Plug-in Voices:
* Preset for the PLG150-AN/DX/PF/DR/PC: 64
* Preset for the PLG150-VL: 192
* User: 64 for each Plug-in slot
Performances:
* 128 User (up to 4 parts)
Filter:
* 18 types
Effect System:
* Reverb: 20 types
* Chorus: 49 types
* Insertion: (A,B) x 116 types x 8 blocks
* Master Effect: 8 types
* Master Equalizer: 5 bands
* Part EQ: 3 bands, stereo
* Plug-in Insertion: Available when the PLG100-VH has been installed into slot 1
Expandability:
* 3 slots for Modular Synthesis Plug-in Boards
Samples:
* Up to 1024 Waveforms (Multi Samples)
* Up to 128 Key Banks per Waveform
* Up to 4096 Key Banks
Sampling Sources:
* Analog input L/R
* Stereo output (Resampling)
* Digital/Optical (available when the AIEB2 has been installed)
* mLAN (available when the mLAN16E has been installed)
A/D Conversion:
* 20 bit, 64 x oversampling
D/A Conversion:
* 24 bit, 128 x oversampling
Sampling Data Bits:
* 16
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Musician's Friend: Special Invitation to Share Your Music
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
Hands On Review: Yamaha MOTIF XS Series
Hands On Review: Yamaha MOTIF XS Series
Workstations for the next generation
By Oscar Sommers
Yamaha MOTIF XS Series
I hate reviewing synths, keyboards, and workstations. Especially the good ones. "Why," you ask, "do you hate writing these reviews? And why do you single out the good ones as being especially awful?" Because when a keyboard is good—really, really good—like the new MOTIF XS workstations from Yamaha, describing each layer of synth sound-engine sexiness, outrageously easy sequencer goodness, and feels-like-home playability is nearly impossible. So consider this fair warning, readers: whatever I say about the MOTIF XS during this review, it’s actually much, much better. No fooling.
Maximum MOTIF
If you’re Yamaha and responsible for one of the all-time classic workstations of our generation—a keyboard just as capable onstage as it is in the studio—how do you top it? You dive into the core features musicians consistently rave about and aim for an even more advanced level of performance. You take the celebrated MOTIF sound engine and make it even better with more spectacular voices and studio-quality Vintage Circuit Modeling effects processing. You use your long history of audio sequencing excellence to make song creation and recording more flexible, more powerful and—at the same time—easier. Then you use the expertise of the software engineers at sister company Steinberg to make the MOTIF so tightly integrated with Cubase it’s scary (like a roller coaster, not an IRS audit). On top of that, the XS series workstations have a bigger, full-color LCD screen, an improved layout, and a powerhouse file system that makes it easy to network your MOTIF and access external file storage.
Sounds like a winner
When Yamaha upgraded the MOTIF sound engine for the ES series, they doubled the wave ROM. For the XS they’ve done it again, cranking it up to a whopping 355MB! This huge amount of ROM adds extra dimensions of response to voices for more expressive control and levels of nuance. Taking advantage of the bigger ROM is a new tone generation system called Xpanded Articulation (XA). A voice in the MOTIF XS is made of eight sonic elements, enabling layers of realistic, natural-sounding expression for XA-enabled voices.
With piano voices you get spine-tingling realism like real grand-piano-style note bloom, soundboard resonance, half-damper pedal positions, and key-off samples. For electric bass you can switch playing position from neck to middle to bridge for more punch or subtlety in your bass sound. Saxophone voices get legato and more breath control. In short, XA gives voices and performances a big scoop of extra mojo. There are lots more new voices to play with too. The electric piano patch called Crunchy Comp may be the perfect EP sound. It’s the successor to the Crunchy EP voice found on the ES series with some VCM compression magic mixed in.
The extremely hip VCM effects processing embedded in the MOTIF XS gives you even more sonic power. Vintage Circuit Modeling is the result of a group of Yamaha engineers led by the legendary Toshi Kunimoto who took the time to model every circuit in a bunch of treasured and revered signal processors. You get wah, flanger, compression, phaser, EQ, reverb, and a classic band-pass-style vocoder for use anywhere, anytime on your MOTIF, and you can use multiple instances of each.
Exhilarating and inspiring
Not only is the XS loaded with oodles of great voices and effects, it’s also chock full of inspiring Performances. For the uninitiated, Performances are groupings of four separate arpeggios with each arpeggio representing a separate musical sequence such as a drum track, bass line, synth pad, etc. When you select a Performance and trigger the arpeggios, you’ve got an instant foundation for inspiration. If you’re looking for a spark, the XS is THE place to start, mainly because Yamaha’s Performances rule. There are loads of Performances for each genre and sub-genre of modern music, especially electronic and hip-hop-based music.
What makes Performances even better is that each one is customizable. You have realtime control over each arpeggio and can substitute your own parts based on the existing arpeggio or add something completely new. Intelligent chord recognition lets you change a progression without reprogramming. And once your inspiration is flowing and the music is rolling, sliding into recording mode is seamless and simple. Hit record on the sequencer transport section and then hit play. A tempo-synced click leads you in and you’re recording. The sequencer captures every aspect of your playing and the voices—even the effects. The Integrated Sampling Sequencer (with optional gig of RAM) will let you load sample libraries and add vocals and guitars right into your XS sequences.
Transferring ideas over to your computer for more production or editing is easy too. Yamaha and Steinberg worked to bring accurate, responsive, and automatic integration of the XS and Cubase. They did it with Cubase AI: a special version of Cubase 4 that ships with the MOTIF XS. You can edit the voices and mix of the Performances and other songs you record on the MOTIF, as well as lay down more audio and MIDI tracks directly to your computer. It also lets you use the voices and effects from the MOTIF as plug-ins with Cubase AI. The XS ’boards also have a comprehensive array of connections aimed at the studio: remote footswitch jack, Ethernet, FireWire/mLAN (included on XS8, optional for XS6, XS7), USB 2.0, and S/PDIF. And now I’ve run out of room. So just remember—read everything I wrote, double it, and then go get a MOTIF XS. You can thank me later.
Features & Specs:
* 355MB wave ROM (16-bit linear format)
* AWM2 Xpanded Articulation (XA) tone generator
* Instant Performance recording
* 4 intelligent arpeggiators with chord recognition
* Updated interface
* Large color LCD screen
* 8 assignable knobs and sliders
* Dedicated sequencer controls
* 128-note polyphony
* 16-part multitimbral capacity
* 1,024 preset voices (64 drum kits)
* 128 GM presets (1 drum kit)
* 128 x 3 user presets
* Studio-style mixing environment
* Virtual Circuitry Modeling effects
* Integrated Sampling Sequencer (with optional memory)
* Computer recording integration with Cubase AI (included)
* XS6: 61 synth-action keys with initial/after touch, (FireWire option)
* XS7: 76 synth-action keys with initial/after touch (FireWire option)
* XS8: 88 graded-hammer action keys, integrated FireWire
Workstations for the next generation
By Oscar Sommers
Yamaha MOTIF XS Series
I hate reviewing synths, keyboards, and workstations. Especially the good ones. "Why," you ask, "do you hate writing these reviews? And why do you single out the good ones as being especially awful?" Because when a keyboard is good—really, really good—like the new MOTIF XS workstations from Yamaha, describing each layer of synth sound-engine sexiness, outrageously easy sequencer goodness, and feels-like-home playability is nearly impossible. So consider this fair warning, readers: whatever I say about the MOTIF XS during this review, it’s actually much, much better. No fooling.
Maximum MOTIF
If you’re Yamaha and responsible for one of the all-time classic workstations of our generation—a keyboard just as capable onstage as it is in the studio—how do you top it? You dive into the core features musicians consistently rave about and aim for an even more advanced level of performance. You take the celebrated MOTIF sound engine and make it even better with more spectacular voices and studio-quality Vintage Circuit Modeling effects processing. You use your long history of audio sequencing excellence to make song creation and recording more flexible, more powerful and—at the same time—easier. Then you use the expertise of the software engineers at sister company Steinberg to make the MOTIF so tightly integrated with Cubase it’s scary (like a roller coaster, not an IRS audit). On top of that, the XS series workstations have a bigger, full-color LCD screen, an improved layout, and a powerhouse file system that makes it easy to network your MOTIF and access external file storage.
Sounds like a winner
When Yamaha upgraded the MOTIF sound engine for the ES series, they doubled the wave ROM. For the XS they’ve done it again, cranking it up to a whopping 355MB! This huge amount of ROM adds extra dimensions of response to voices for more expressive control and levels of nuance. Taking advantage of the bigger ROM is a new tone generation system called Xpanded Articulation (XA). A voice in the MOTIF XS is made of eight sonic elements, enabling layers of realistic, natural-sounding expression for XA-enabled voices.
With piano voices you get spine-tingling realism like real grand-piano-style note bloom, soundboard resonance, half-damper pedal positions, and key-off samples. For electric bass you can switch playing position from neck to middle to bridge for more punch or subtlety in your bass sound. Saxophone voices get legato and more breath control. In short, XA gives voices and performances a big scoop of extra mojo. There are lots more new voices to play with too. The electric piano patch called Crunchy Comp may be the perfect EP sound. It’s the successor to the Crunchy EP voice found on the ES series with some VCM compression magic mixed in.
The extremely hip VCM effects processing embedded in the MOTIF XS gives you even more sonic power. Vintage Circuit Modeling is the result of a group of Yamaha engineers led by the legendary Toshi Kunimoto who took the time to model every circuit in a bunch of treasured and revered signal processors. You get wah, flanger, compression, phaser, EQ, reverb, and a classic band-pass-style vocoder for use anywhere, anytime on your MOTIF, and you can use multiple instances of each.
Exhilarating and inspiring
Not only is the XS loaded with oodles of great voices and effects, it’s also chock full of inspiring Performances. For the uninitiated, Performances are groupings of four separate arpeggios with each arpeggio representing a separate musical sequence such as a drum track, bass line, synth pad, etc. When you select a Performance and trigger the arpeggios, you’ve got an instant foundation for inspiration. If you’re looking for a spark, the XS is THE place to start, mainly because Yamaha’s Performances rule. There are loads of Performances for each genre and sub-genre of modern music, especially electronic and hip-hop-based music.
What makes Performances even better is that each one is customizable. You have realtime control over each arpeggio and can substitute your own parts based on the existing arpeggio or add something completely new. Intelligent chord recognition lets you change a progression without reprogramming. And once your inspiration is flowing and the music is rolling, sliding into recording mode is seamless and simple. Hit record on the sequencer transport section and then hit play. A tempo-synced click leads you in and you’re recording. The sequencer captures every aspect of your playing and the voices—even the effects. The Integrated Sampling Sequencer (with optional gig of RAM) will let you load sample libraries and add vocals and guitars right into your XS sequences.
Transferring ideas over to your computer for more production or editing is easy too. Yamaha and Steinberg worked to bring accurate, responsive, and automatic integration of the XS and Cubase. They did it with Cubase AI: a special version of Cubase 4 that ships with the MOTIF XS. You can edit the voices and mix of the Performances and other songs you record on the MOTIF, as well as lay down more audio and MIDI tracks directly to your computer. It also lets you use the voices and effects from the MOTIF as plug-ins with Cubase AI. The XS ’boards also have a comprehensive array of connections aimed at the studio: remote footswitch jack, Ethernet, FireWire/mLAN (included on XS8, optional for XS6, XS7), USB 2.0, and S/PDIF. And now I’ve run out of room. So just remember—read everything I wrote, double it, and then go get a MOTIF XS. You can thank me later.
Features & Specs:
* 355MB wave ROM (16-bit linear format)
* AWM2 Xpanded Articulation (XA) tone generator
* Instant Performance recording
* 4 intelligent arpeggiators with chord recognition
* Updated interface
* Large color LCD screen
* 8 assignable knobs and sliders
* Dedicated sequencer controls
* 128-note polyphony
* 16-part multitimbral capacity
* 1,024 preset voices (64 drum kits)
* 128 GM presets (1 drum kit)
* 128 x 3 user presets
* Studio-style mixing environment
* Virtual Circuitry Modeling effects
* Integrated Sampling Sequencer (with optional memory)
* Computer recording integration with Cubase AI (included)
* XS6: 61 synth-action keys with initial/after touch, (FireWire option)
* XS7: 76 synth-action keys with initial/after touch (FireWire option)
* XS8: 88 graded-hammer action keys, integrated FireWire
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Special Anniversary Financing
Don't Pay for a Full Year* during Guitar Center's 43rd Anniversary! Between now and August 31st, get no payments, no interest financing on your single or combined purchases of $499 or more when you use your Preferred Player Card.
Apply Online
As a Guitar Center credit card customer, you're entitled to a variety of unique benefits designed especially for you. Benefits like special financing offers, deferred payment options, affordable monthly payments, no annual fee, and increased purchasing power.
With all these benefits and conveniences, you can't afford NOT to apply for your very own Guitar Center credit card. And you can do it right here, right now, on-line! So what are you waiting for? You've got nothing to lose. Apply Now and get a quick response.
Monday, August 13, 2007
Musician's Friend
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* Expansion Tank Acoustic Drums Multisamples CD - Only $19.99
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* Nord Blem Electro 2 Sixty-One Stage Piano/Organ
* Roland Blem VariOS Open System Module
* Gator Blem GK-288R 88-Note ATA Keyboard Case
Thursday, August 09, 2007
Korg R3 Synthesizer and Vocoder
Korg R3 Synthesizer and Vocoder
Twice the sound at half the weight
Oscar Sommers
Korg R3 Synthesizer/Vocoder keyboard
Fat analog synth sound means fat analog synth weight. Old-school analog synths are heavy (sometimes as tubby as 200 pounds!) making travel to gigs and practice a backbreaking chore. It’s also hard to delicately handle large, heavy objects, which is how you must treat your synth lest you knock the often fussy oscillators out of tune. If you do manage to gingerly settle your synth onstage without any slips or bumps, there’s a good chance you’ll be out of tune halfway through the gig anyway. Yes, those analog synths known for their great sound are also just as (in)famous for their tendency to drift out of tune after only 20 minutes of play due to circuit design and cooling issues.
All those reasons, and many more, are what make the KORG R3 such an appealing instrument. Introduced at the last winter NAMM, this compact 37-key synthesizer weighs only six pounds but packs a version of the ridiculously thick, rich, and delicious Multiple Modeling Technology (MMT) sound engine found in the RADIAS. The R3 is to the RADIAS as the wildly popular MicroKORG is to the MS2000—it scales it down while retaining the sonic essence and power of its larger sibling. 128 customizable programs deliver sounds from mild pads to cutting lead tones with lots of other excellent synth and imitative sounds on tap. There are also six multiple-mode arpeggiator patterns to get creative with. Last but not least, the R3 has a flexible vocoder and even comes with a mic.
All of this is mounted in a very geek-chic chassis that looks and feels solid while also being sleek and light. The control panel and keys are laid out in a simple, easy-to-follow manner that packs a lot of control into a small space without really feeling cluttered. The synthesis parameter control section is especially cool. On the right side of the panel are four knobs, each topped by a small LCD. The function of the knobs and their LCD information changes to reflect the parameters you’ve selected to edit (oscillator 1, oscillator 2, filter 1, etc.) using a fifth knob placed just to the left. Neat, simple, and cuts down on the number of knobs. You can also use the included Editor software and connect your R3 to your computer via USB for even more control over the Programs.
Osc-some engine
The R3 is featherweight and stylishly retro-modern but any earnest examination of its worth begins with the sound engine that drives this tiny synthesis terror. In the R3 the MMT engine has an extremely variable sonic character thanks to the array of oscillator waveforms provided. Best of all, it’s flexible and easy to use.
Korg R3 Synthesizer/Vocoder keyboard
You get two oscillators per voice, with each oscillator using the low-aliasing design of the AL-1 Analog Synthesizer from the OASYS, noted for its smooth, powerful character. Oscillator one gives you choices for sawtooth, pulse, formant, noise, and Digital Waveform Generator System (DWGS) algorithms with DWGS providing over 60 wave shapes. To give the analog waveforms extra flavor, you have access to four separate modulation algorithms: cross modulation, pulse-width modulation, unison modulation (for voice thickening), and harmonic-generating Variable-Phase Modulation (VPM—Korg’s particularly tasty and proprietary take on FM synthesis).
You get fewer options with the second oscillator; just four analog-modeled waveforms. But the selection of sawtooth, square, triangle, and sine waves combined with sync modulation, ring modulation, and a combination of the two deliver an in-your-face mod perfect for taking any sound into sonically wicked analog synth territory. These modulation functions in addition to tuning abilities give you plenty of tweakability with the second oscillator.
More synthsational tools
You also get a noise generator, filter section, two LFOs, three envelopes, and an amp section to play with. The noise generator is useful for adding everything from percussive effects to a white-noise wall of sound. The filter setup is more versatile than you’d initially think two filters could be. You can match up a filter with one of the pair of oscillators, use one filter (filter one only), or two filters in series (filter one feeding into filter two) or parallel. And the two filters have separate tonal characters and parameters as well, increasing the amount of variability you can squeeze out of them. Filter one is a continuously variable multimode resonant filter which can be morphed between various high-, low-, and band-pass functions. Filter two is much the same, except for two things: it’s not continuously variable and it also includes a comb filter for lovely airy, metallic chorus and flanger effects.
Two of the three ADSR envelopes control filter tone and volume while the third is assignable. The amp section lets you add variable amounts of drive to the signal, allowing you to push the sound from classic analog style warmth to much heavier distortion, or use it for ultracool wave-shaping—even bit-decimation-style clipping. You can also place it in front of the amp section or in front of the filter section. Plus you can route the audio inputs right into the shiny, hot-rodded synth engine to process and manipulate external sounds as well as use six virtual patch cables to customize the signal flow from component to component, just like an analog synth.
Voice encoding

The small, flexible 16-band vocoder section supplies a few input mix controls while the vocoding functions efficiently use the same controls as the MMT engine with vocoding functions labeled in red. You can apply the vocoder to your voice or other audio (through the rear inputs) and also use Formant Motion to record 16 seven-and-a-half-second sections of movement in the vocoder filters and apply them later without any external input.
The R3 is a deceptively powerful analog-style synth, especially when considering its price and size. While it is friendly enough for beginning synthesists, it definitely has enough meat for wave-bending vets looking for a small second ’board with superb analog sounds.
Features & Specs
Korg R3 Synthesizer/Vocoder keyboard
* Multiple Modeling Technology synth engine
* Full-size, velocity-sensitive, 37-note keyboard
* 16-band vocoder (mic included)
* 8-voice polyphony
* 128 programs
* 16 formant motion data sets (7.5 second x 16)
* Top-panel XLR input
* Dual rear-panel 1/4" inputs
* Headphone jack
* L/MONO, R 1/4" outputs
* Footswitch input
* MIDI I/O/Thru
* USB port
* 5 LCD control displays
* Dual oscillators
* Noise generator
* 2 filters
* 2 insert effects and 1 master effect per timbre
* 6 arpeggiator patterns
Twice the sound at half the weight
Oscar Sommers
Korg R3 Synthesizer/Vocoder keyboard
Fat analog synth sound means fat analog synth weight. Old-school analog synths are heavy (sometimes as tubby as 200 pounds!) making travel to gigs and practice a backbreaking chore. It’s also hard to delicately handle large, heavy objects, which is how you must treat your synth lest you knock the often fussy oscillators out of tune. If you do manage to gingerly settle your synth onstage without any slips or bumps, there’s a good chance you’ll be out of tune halfway through the gig anyway. Yes, those analog synths known for their great sound are also just as (in)famous for their tendency to drift out of tune after only 20 minutes of play due to circuit design and cooling issues.
All those reasons, and many more, are what make the KORG R3 such an appealing instrument. Introduced at the last winter NAMM, this compact 37-key synthesizer weighs only six pounds but packs a version of the ridiculously thick, rich, and delicious Multiple Modeling Technology (MMT) sound engine found in the RADIAS. The R3 is to the RADIAS as the wildly popular MicroKORG is to the MS2000—it scales it down while retaining the sonic essence and power of its larger sibling. 128 customizable programs deliver sounds from mild pads to cutting lead tones with lots of other excellent synth and imitative sounds on tap. There are also six multiple-mode arpeggiator patterns to get creative with. Last but not least, the R3 has a flexible vocoder and even comes with a mic.
All of this is mounted in a very geek-chic chassis that looks and feels solid while also being sleek and light. The control panel and keys are laid out in a simple, easy-to-follow manner that packs a lot of control into a small space without really feeling cluttered. The synthesis parameter control section is especially cool. On the right side of the panel are four knobs, each topped by a small LCD. The function of the knobs and their LCD information changes to reflect the parameters you’ve selected to edit (oscillator 1, oscillator 2, filter 1, etc.) using a fifth knob placed just to the left. Neat, simple, and cuts down on the number of knobs. You can also use the included Editor software and connect your R3 to your computer via USB for even more control over the Programs.
Osc-some engine
The R3 is featherweight and stylishly retro-modern but any earnest examination of its worth begins with the sound engine that drives this tiny synthesis terror. In the R3 the MMT engine has an extremely variable sonic character thanks to the array of oscillator waveforms provided. Best of all, it’s flexible and easy to use.
Korg R3 Synthesizer/Vocoder keyboard
You get two oscillators per voice, with each oscillator using the low-aliasing design of the AL-1 Analog Synthesizer from the OASYS, noted for its smooth, powerful character. Oscillator one gives you choices for sawtooth, pulse, formant, noise, and Digital Waveform Generator System (DWGS) algorithms with DWGS providing over 60 wave shapes. To give the analog waveforms extra flavor, you have access to four separate modulation algorithms: cross modulation, pulse-width modulation, unison modulation (for voice thickening), and harmonic-generating Variable-Phase Modulation (VPM—Korg’s particularly tasty and proprietary take on FM synthesis).
You get fewer options with the second oscillator; just four analog-modeled waveforms. But the selection of sawtooth, square, triangle, and sine waves combined with sync modulation, ring modulation, and a combination of the two deliver an in-your-face mod perfect for taking any sound into sonically wicked analog synth territory. These modulation functions in addition to tuning abilities give you plenty of tweakability with the second oscillator.
More synthsational tools
You also get a noise generator, filter section, two LFOs, three envelopes, and an amp section to play with. The noise generator is useful for adding everything from percussive effects to a white-noise wall of sound. The filter setup is more versatile than you’d initially think two filters could be. You can match up a filter with one of the pair of oscillators, use one filter (filter one only), or two filters in series (filter one feeding into filter two) or parallel. And the two filters have separate tonal characters and parameters as well, increasing the amount of variability you can squeeze out of them. Filter one is a continuously variable multimode resonant filter which can be morphed between various high-, low-, and band-pass functions. Filter two is much the same, except for two things: it’s not continuously variable and it also includes a comb filter for lovely airy, metallic chorus and flanger effects.
Two of the three ADSR envelopes control filter tone and volume while the third is assignable. The amp section lets you add variable amounts of drive to the signal, allowing you to push the sound from classic analog style warmth to much heavier distortion, or use it for ultracool wave-shaping—even bit-decimation-style clipping. You can also place it in front of the amp section or in front of the filter section. Plus you can route the audio inputs right into the shiny, hot-rodded synth engine to process and manipulate external sounds as well as use six virtual patch cables to customize the signal flow from component to component, just like an analog synth.
Voice encoding
The small, flexible 16-band vocoder section supplies a few input mix controls while the vocoding functions efficiently use the same controls as the MMT engine with vocoding functions labeled in red. You can apply the vocoder to your voice or other audio (through the rear inputs) and also use Formant Motion to record 16 seven-and-a-half-second sections of movement in the vocoder filters and apply them later without any external input.
The R3 is a deceptively powerful analog-style synth, especially when considering its price and size. While it is friendly enough for beginning synthesists, it definitely has enough meat for wave-bending vets looking for a small second ’board with superb analog sounds.
Features & Specs
Korg R3 Synthesizer/Vocoder keyboard
* Multiple Modeling Technology synth engine
* Full-size, velocity-sensitive, 37-note keyboard
* 16-band vocoder (mic included)
* 8-voice polyphony
* 128 programs
* 16 formant motion data sets (7.5 second x 16)
* Top-panel XLR input
* Dual rear-panel 1/4" inputs
* Headphone jack
* L/MONO, R 1/4" outputs
* Footswitch input
* MIDI I/O/Thru
* USB port
* 5 LCD control displays
* Dual oscillators
* Noise generator
* 2 filters
* 2 insert effects and 1 master effect per timbre
* 6 arpeggiator patterns
Wednesday, August 08, 2007
Casio CTK-491 61-Key Portable Keyboard
Casio CTK-491 61-Key Portable Keyboard
$79.99
MSRP: $149.95 Save: $69.96
A budget-conscious board that's newcomer-friendly. This 61-key portable board has 12-note polyphony, 100 tones, LCD screen, 100 songs, chord book, and Casio Chord auto-accompaniment. Also has an on-screen display of music staff, finger icons, metronome, notes, and chords; transposition and tuning control; chord book function; 100 rhythm patterns; and 2 speakers. I/O includes mic input, MIDI with 5-channel multitimbrality, sustain pedal jack, and 1/4" headphone jack. Operates on AA batteries or optional AD-5 AC adapter.
$79.99
MSRP: $149.95 Save: $69.96
A budget-conscious board that's newcomer-friendly. This 61-key portable board has 12-note polyphony, 100 tones, LCD screen, 100 songs, chord book, and Casio Chord auto-accompaniment. Also has an on-screen display of music staff, finger icons, metronome, notes, and chords; transposition and tuning control; chord book function; 100 rhythm patterns; and 2 speakers. I/O includes mic input, MIDI with 5-channel multitimbrality, sustain pedal jack, and 1/4" headphone jack. Operates on AA batteries or optional AD-5 AC adapter.
Friday, August 03, 2007
Kurzweil PCR-2
Kurzweil PCR-2 Classic Keys ROM
The PCR-2 Classic Keys ROM Soundblock features authentic reproductions of "vintage" keyboard sounds which over the years have become essential to the modern keyboardist. Classic Keys also makes use of the PC series base ROM samples and includes "vintage" Rhodes Wurlitzer programs. For PC2 users, 4 new additional KB3 Organ programs are included as well.
The samples in this virtual instrument set are of the highest quality having been recorded and processed with the expertise for which Kurzweil is famous. The PC series synthesis engine provided a variety of powerful sound-sculpting tools and the finishing touches were added with the PC series effects engine which utilizes the same technology as Kurzweil's acclaimed KDFX (for the K2500/2600 keyboards) and the award-winning KSP8 processor. Kurzweil was able to precisely recreate the timbres from many live and studio recordings which have helped define the "vintage" sound. Effects pedals, speaker cabinets and recording techniques have all been faithfully replicated giving the Kurzweil Classic Keys programs a level of detail and realism never before achieved in any "vintage" keyboard emulation.
Korg M3 73-Key Music Workstation Sampler
Korg M3 73-Key Music Workstation Sampler
$2,899.00
MSRP: $3475.00 Save: $576.00
The M3 features a number of innovations distilled from the flagship OASYS including the EDS (Enhanced Definition Synthesis) sound generator derived from the HD-1 engine design, the advanced second-generation KARMA functionality, and the multi-purpose control surface. Adding innovations such as the new concept of virtualized hardware that allows an even closer integration with DAW systems, Drum Tracks which provide a instant groove to play along with, and the new "Korg Komponent System" concept that facilitates more flexible system construction, the M3 music workstation/sampler opens a new and exciting page in music making - it s the workstation that rightfully deserves to wear the M that started it all.
Enhanced Definition Synthesis - a new horizon of sound-making potential
The M3 features an EDS sound generating system based on a chip design that was developed in parallel with the HD-1 engine from the flagship OASYS. It takes full advantage of the M3 s 256 Mbytes of PCM source material that is a veritable best of from the OASYS.
Using Korg s advanced voicing technology, the 1,028 multisamples, 1,606 drum samples, dual oscillators, four-level velocity switching/crossfading/layering, and stereo sampling allow for an enormous range of high-quality, detailed, and expressive sounds.
The filter section, a vital part of the sound-creation process, lets you simultaneously use two resonant filters for each oscillator, and can be configured in series or parallel. Four filter types are provided: low-pass, high-pass, band-pass, and band-reject.
The amp section features a driver circuit that gives the sound a sense of edge and character, along with low boost to help shake the walls when needed. Integrated 3-band EQ allows tonal sculpting without needing to go to the effects section. Detailed envelope generators, abundant modulation routings, plus the AMS Mixers for advanced processing all combine to provide a level of sound shaping far beyond previous possibilities.
Effects
The all-important effect section provides up to five Insert effects, two Master effects, and one Total effect. In addition to great choruses, flangers, phasers, delays and reverbs, the 170 effect types include dynamic processing effects such as compressor and limiter, amp modeling and speaker simulation effects using Korg s proprietary REMS modeling technology, and evocative effects like the Grain Shifter and Talking Modulator.
The M3 includes professional features that allow for many cool applications and routings. Dual Common LFOs allow multiple effects to use the same modulation source; an advanced Control Bus provides triggering input from external audio or internal timbres to effects such as compressor/limiters and the vocoder; and the audio inputs can be freely routed to various effect chains and then run to individual outputs allowing the M3 to be used as a 2-in/6-output effects processor.
Funky Drummer
A drumkit in the M3 can be created from ROM or RAM samples, mono or stereo, with up to four-way velocity switching and cross-fading for incredible realism.
Powerful sound shaping can occur here, with EQ, drive and low boost plus individual effects routing per key, delivering incredible results.
Drum Track
The M3 provides a Drum Track function that adds a groove to each sound you play. Combined with KARMA, it makes a Program a complete sonic adventure that is sure to inspire. You can select patterns from over 500 in internal memory and start them with a dedicated button, from a desired region of the keyboard or by playing a velocity that s above a specified threshold.
Since the Drum Track uses MIDI data stored in a Pattern, it is easy for you to create your own in the Sequencer Mode, either recording them, importing them from SMF data or other user s songs, or converting recorded KARMA data as MIDI events for further manipulation. Even sampled loops can be used! This is a powerful feature with uses ranging from creating music-production memos to inspirational jamming and realtime performance.
Expanded Combination Mode
Combination Mode is where multiple Programs can be freely assigned as splits and layers across the keyboard, including velocity switching and cross-fading for complex and expressive sounds. Sounds can be delayed either by time or by tempo, even when you release a key, allowing you to create sophisticated rhythmic soundscapes and performance effects. Monophonic sounds can be forced to be polyphonic, or vice-versa, and you can select only one of the oscillators if desired. For the adventurous musician, each timbre can even use a different scale or tuning!
The M3 allows for 16 timbres at the same time, including a Drum Track, up to four KARMA Modules, multiple effects and much more. Each timbre has dedicated 3-band EQ for getting the perfect mix, and a powerful Tone Adjust setup for detailed in-context sound shaping.
In addition to providing more sound elements, this means that Combis can be set up and saved as complete 16-part MIDI sequencing templates for use with an external sequencer and computer DAWs.
Great sounds
In the end it s always about the sounds, and the M3 doesn t disappoint. Korg s acclaimed international voicing team delivers the goods once again: stunningly realistic imitative sounds, fat synth sounds, imaginative textures, evocative sound effects it s all here. The M3 comes loaded with 512 Programs, and room for a total of 1,664 user sounds (13 Banks plus GM). All sound locations are fully editable (except GM banks), so you are always free to tweak a sound if needed. Adding in the EXB-RADIAS option delivers 128 powerful MMT synthesis sounds. There are 32 drumkits provided, and room for a total of 144. As for the 16-part Combinations, 384 come preloaded, with room for a total of 1,792 (14 Banks).
All sounds (Programs and Combinations) are organized by Categories and Sub-Categories for easy searching and selection, making it easy to find and organize your sounds.
Second Generation KARMA
The second generation KARMA functionality that first appeared on the OASYS and received wide acclaim from artists and users world-wide is fully implemented in the M3. KARMA is the inspiring, real-time music generation system that can help you play everything from natural instrument gestures like intricate finger-picking, strumming and harp glissandos, to complex cascades of notes, dance-riffs, gated and chopping effects and improvising drum grooves. KARMA continues to set the standard by which all other arpeggiators, phrase players, and musical effect generators are judged. The inspiration that KARMA offers, coupled with the unheard-of phrase variability is second to none.
In Program Mode, one KARMA Generated Effect (GE) can be assigned to a single drum groove, melodic phrase, comping gated part or other musical effect. Eight sliders, eight switches, and eight scenes provide dedicated real-time control and the ability to store complete snapshots of your settings.
In Combi and Sequencer modes, KARMA s power increases exponentially, with four KARMA Modules available simultaneously.
The Control Surface can access and manipulate each module individually on its own Module Layer . In addition to the 4 individual Module Layers, there is a Master Layer that can be mapped to parameters from any of the modules, even grouping them together so one slider can control the swing feel of all four modules at the same time, or the rhythmic activity of two or three modules at once, to name a few. Each Module Layer has 8 Scenes that store the settings of the sliders and switches in 8 different snapshots, instantly recalling completely different settings for that layer.
The Master Layer s 8 Scenes, in addition to storing the settings of the 16 sliders and switches for its parameters, also control which scene is selected for each module. You can control each layer s scenes directly from the control surface, or from the innovative Scene Matrix Page, which also controls whether the Drum Track will play along in a given scene. With 8 Scenes in each Module, and 8 Master Scenes storing which of those scenes are selected at which time (a total of 40 scenes), the possibilities are mind-boggling.
The M3 has incredible control over each KARMA element yet has been refined to be even easier to use, thanks to 13 Real-Time Control Models (RTC Models). An RTC Model standardizes which parameters of a KARMA GE are available for real time control, and how they are assigned to the Control Surface. With multiple GEs sharing the same exact setup, what you learn while controlling one GE is consistent and applicable to the thousands of other included GEs as well.
Finally, the second generation KARMA provides a signature sonic effect called KARMA Wave-Sequencing that can change a sound s waveforms rhythmically in realtime, along with everything else KARMA is doing, allowing each note to access a different waveform as it is generated. The results can resemble traditional wave-sequencing, or enter completely new realms of sound design.
Ultimate expressive power
The M3 is remarkable not only for the freshness of its sounds, but also for its outstanding new control environment. The color LCD of the M3 music workstation/sampler not only provides a touch-view GUI that ensures intuitive and easy operation, but it also operates as an X-Y Pad, allowing sound and effect parameters to be controlled in real-time by sliding your finger across or tapping on the screen much like the innovative Korg KAOSS Pad. Further control is provided by a Motion function that lets you capture and play back your finger moves to shape your sound and performance in unique ways. The screen even changes colors in response to the movement of your finger for cool visual feedback to your performance.
The 8 dynamic, velocity-sensitive pads give you a great way to play drum sounds or up to 8-note chords, either live or as triggers for the powerful KARMA function.
Each note in the chord retains the individual velocity so it can play back with all the nuance of your original performance, and can even be scaled across a full velocity range without breaking the dynamic relationship of each note.
Pads 1-8 Assignment Page
The eight slider/eight switch control surface offers the same multi-functionality as on the OASYS: it can be used as a mixer, a set of expressive sound controls, an editing interface, a realtime KARMA performance interface, or to control external software and hardware synths and effects.
There s also a joystick, assignable Value slider, 2 switches and a ribbon controller that give you convenient ways to express subtle nuances of sound. A newly designed proprietary keyboard with refined aftertouch delivers superb feel and expression that s better than ever before.
RADIAS inside
You can add an internal RADIAS analog modeling synthesizer sound generator board (one timbre, up to 24 voices), with on-screen integration of all its parameters and full integration with the M3 s effects, control surface and KARMA functionality.
EXB-RADIAS Main Page
This powerful MMT-based (Multiple Modeling Technology) synth engine features dual oscillators which combine to offer analog-modeled waves, DWGS (PCM) waves, noise, ring mod and more. Waveform modulation, Variable Phase Modulation (VPM), Unison voice thickening, PWM and cross-mod expand the sonic palette.
EXB-RADIAS Oscillator Main Page
Dual Filters can run in series, parallel, or side-by-side (individual for each oscillator). Filter1 features a resonant filter design covering 24 dB low pass, 12 dB low pass plus 12 dB high and band pass, with continuously variable morphing between these states. Filter2 offers 12dB versions of the low, high and band pass modes, plus a unique comb filter.
EXB-RADIAS Filter Page
Two LFOs and three ADSR envelopes shape the sound and add cyclic motion to nearly any voice parameter. Three 16-step Modulation Sequencers provide discrete values to a modulation parameter that change over time, either in stepped or smooth motion, and can loop over and over.
EXB-RADIAS Mod Sequencer Page
Internal or external audio can be run through the EXB-RADIAS to be gated and filtered using the internal synthesis and effects. Drive adds analog warmth, Punch brings increased definition to the attack of a sound, and 12-types of Wave Shaping provides dramatic timbral shaping even offering virtual pick-up response.
The EXB-RADIAS offers the same vocoder as the RADIAS, offering 16 bands with individual control over level and panning. Formant Motion records the formant of a sung or spoken phrase so it can be recreated anytime.
And of course, all of KARMA s generative features can be used with the RADIAS to provide even more options, including RADIAS Wave-Sequencing.
Open Sampling
The M3 s Open Sampling System lets you sample and resample in any mode to produce new remixed combinations of sounds and effects, or to capture full performances In-Track within the sequencer. Cutting-edge editing tools include Time Slice, Time Stretch, Crossfade Looping, Rate Change and Normalize.
An easy-to-use Auto-Setup function makes all the right sampling settings for you, with the press of a button. Stock sampling memory is 64 MB, and can be increased to 320 MB by adding the optional EXB-M256 memory expansion board. Samples in Korg native format, AIFF, WAV, Soundfont V2.0 and AKAI (S-1000/3000 with advanced Program parameter conversion) formats can be used, and internal samples can be exported as WAV or AIFF if needed.
Sampling can also be done to attached media, so USB memory sticks and hard drives can be used to extend memory size to resample a complete song as a WAV file to be burned to a USB CD-R/RW as an audio disc, or for moving to a computer for further editing and manipulation. Audio files on the media can even be edited directly to normalize, trim, and perform other essential editing tasks.
New High-Resolution Sequencer
The sequencer that s at the heart of the M3 s song production is an intuitively-understandable 16-track design that holds up to 128 songs and 210,000 notes.
The new high timing resolution of 480 PPQ captures every nuance and detail of your performance. Three-band EQ per track provides detailed sound-shaping, as does the Tone Adjust sound tweaking function.
The Cue List function that has been a popular feature ever since the now-classic TRITON series lets you create songs in sections, or play back completed songs as a medley.
Sequence Cue List Page
All the now-classic Korg features are included, such as the one-touch Auto Song Setup feature, which takes you from playing a Program or Combination to ready-to-record status in one easy step, automatically arming tracks and routing voices behind the scenes. All KARMA settings are also set up, so you can record every note and controller as they re generated, and even edit them later.
Song Templates contain pre-assigned effect routings and program assignments, providing one more shortcut to help you capture your creative outbursts. The M3 comes with 16 of these Song Templates, plus another 16 you can custom-tailor to your own needs. Each Template Song also provides a number of rhythm patterns including intro, fills and endings that you can use to instantly create a rhythm track.
Individual track looping allows flexible manipulation of repeated phrases such as drum grooves against longer parts like melodies and solos.
Advanced editing tools like variable quantization with selectable intensity and swing allow for nuanced adjustments to your recordings. Detailed event editing lets you work on your tracks with surgical precision, and a Compare function acts like an Undo for your last change to easily judge the effect of your edits.
Realtime Pattern Play and Record (RPPR) can be used to assign sequenced Patterns to individual keys on the keyboard for an interactive performance, or to quickly build up tracks. You can record controller data, Sys. Ex., or even KARMA phrases and trigger them as you like.
Time-tested features that have been proven to aid in inspiration and song creation combine to deliver an intuitive and enjoyable songwriting experience the M3 has it all!
CME UF5 49-Key MIDI Controller
CME UF5 49-Key MIDI Controller
Pro-level control and feel at an amazing price!
The CME UF5 49-Key MIDI Controller is a USB/MIDI keyboard controller that brings together quality components with topnotch performance to deliver professional control over all your soft synths and synth modules. The blue-tint aluminum body is durable, sleek and offers a stylish housing for the 49 semi-weighted, velocity-sensitive keys with aftertouch.
The CME UF5 also houses pitch and modulation wheels; 8 assignable knobs and 9 assignable sliders that also have preset functions; an LED display; and DAW transport controls. I/O includes a breath controller port, MIDI out, USB port, and an M-LAN compatible FireWire audio expansion port. The USB connection works as a USB/MIDI port and supplies power for the controller.
CME UF5 49-Key MIDI Controller Specifications:
* 33-3/4"W x 4-1/2"H x 13-3/4"D
* 18 lbs.
CME UF5 49-Key MIDI Controller Features:
* 49 semi-weighted, velocity-sensitive keys with aftertouch
* Durable aluminum body
* Pitch and modulation wheels
* 8 assignable knobs with preset functions: cutoff, resonance, attack, release, pan, reverb, chorus, tempo
* 9 assignable sliders with preset functions: volume for 1-16 channels, master volume, drawbar
* LED display
* Dedicated play, stop, record, forward, and reverse transport controls
* Breath controller port
* MIDI out
* USB/MIDI port
* M-LAN-compatible FireWire audio expansion port
Whether you're adding a second synth controller or just getting started in MIDI this is an excellent controller. Order today. Whether you're adding a second synth controller or just getting started in MIDI this is an excellent controller. Order today.
$159.99 -or- $15/mo. - Apply!
List Price: $279.00 Savings: $119.01(42%)
On-Stage Stands KS7190
Musician's Friend 60W Keyboard Amp/PA
Musician's Friend 60W Keyboard Amp/PA
$99.99 -or- $15/mo. - Apply!
List Price: $259.00
A capable, economical little performer.
A workhorse in the garage band and an affordable solution for keyboardists, it pumps a solid 60W RMS into a 12" woofer and 2" tweeter. Sound shaping is precisely accomplished with a 4-band EQ with parametric mids and 2 channels with independent levels. Dual 1/4" and XLR inputs. 1/4" output.
Musician's Friend 60W Keyboard Amp/PA Specifications:
* 21"W x 24"H x 14-1/2"D
* 46 lbs.
Musician's Friend 60W Keyboard Amp/PA Features:
* 60W RMS
* 12" woofer and 2" tweeter
* 4-band EQ with parametric mids
* 2 channels with independent levels
* Dual 1/4" and XLR inputs
* 1/4" output
Monday, July 30, 2007
40,000 Items in Stock at Musician's Friend
Come Shop at the World's Largest Music Gear Company!

On Most Orders Over $99
40,000 Items in Stock at Musician's Friend
* Akai MPC Production Station Deals - Up To $299 In Rebate Value!
* On-Stage Keyboard X Stand - Only $9.99!
* Super Savings On Yamaha MOTIF ES Workstations - Up To $1200 Off!
* Korg R3 Synthesizer/Vocoder - $649.99
* Yamaha EZ-200 Portable Keyboard With Guide Lights - $249.99
* CME VX Motorized Fader MIDI Controllers - From $699.99
On Most Orders Over $99
40,000 Items in Stock at Musician's Friend
* Akai MPC Production Station Deals - Up To $299 In Rebate Value!
* On-Stage Keyboard X Stand - Only $9.99!
* Super Savings On Yamaha MOTIF ES Workstations - Up To $1200 Off!
* Korg R3 Synthesizer/Vocoder - $649.99
* Yamaha EZ-200 Portable Keyboard With Guide Lights - $249.99
* CME VX Motorized Fader MIDI Controllers - From $699.99
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