YAMAHA DEBUTS PSR1100 and PSR2100
—New Portable Keyboards Feature USB Connectivity,
Digital Sheet Music
and Professional Playing Power—
ANAHEIM, CA—The Winter NAMM 2003 introduction of the
Yamaha PSR1100 and PSR2100 represents a significant step forward
in the portable keyboard product line. With the addition of
USB computer connectivity, screens capable of displaying sheet
music, and systems designed to use the power and expandability
of the Internet, the features and performance characteristics
of these models truly blur the lines between hobbyists and professional
users.
“Every few years, Yamaha will upgrade the portable keyboard
line with new, improved versions of already very successful
products,” states Jim Presley, marketing manager, Yamaha
Portable Keyboards. “Although the PSR1100 and PSR2100
represent such a change, the improvements are extremely significant.”
Graphic representations of functions, including computer-like
folders showing song, style and function lists, animated help
screens, song lyrics, music notation, and more are now included
with both models. Chord data from standard MIDI files can be
used by the “Style” section to immediately take
a song from one arrangement to another, providing a valuable
tool for a songwriter or arranger.
Innovations continue with the addition of Yamaha’s remarkable
Music Finder Function, which makes operation as simple as knowing
a song title. The user chooses from hundreds of song titles,
pushes a button and the entire keyboard automatically adjusts
to all appropriate settings for that particular song.
Additional improvements include twice the Wave ROM memory
of previous models, plus new styles and content. The stunning
sound quality is due, in part, to Yamaha’s Advanced Wave
Memory (AWM) tone generation, XG MIDI compatibility, a newly
designed bass reflex sound system with two-way stereo speakers
and enhanced, multi-effect DSP. Yamaha’s exclusive “Sweet,”
“Cool” and “Live” voices have been added
from the new TYROS, resulting in startlingly realistic instrument
sounds. In the case of the PSR2100, a flute organ sound has
been added, complete with 8 graphic drawbars that can be individually
manipulated. This classic jazz and rock organ sound can be further
enhanced by the programmable tremolo in the DSP.
The PSR2100 also features a microphone input for vocals which
links up with an internal vocal harmonizer, enabling the user
to literally sing harmony with his or her voice in real time.
With the integrated multi-effects processor, the user can enhance—or
even change the gender—of their voice.
If remembering the words is a problem, both the PSR1100 and
PSR2100 have another innovation called “LY”(Lyrics)
that will scroll the words across the display in time to the
music, adding the functions of a comprehensive Karaoke system.
Lyrics can also be displayed with music notation.
“The performance characteristics and capabilities of
the PSR1100 and PSR2100 will make professionals rethink the
way they make music,” states Mark Anderson, product manager,
Yamaha Portable Keyboards. “The amazing innovations of
these keyboards will make those who only ‘listen’
wonder why they’re not making music themselves.”
In addition to MIDI connections, the PSR1100 and PSR2100 feature
a USB port that enables effortless computer connection, opening
a whole world of musical, educational, and creative possibilities
to the millions of U.S. households with personal computers.
This is especially important for the growing number of laptop
users where the addition of cards may not be an option.
Both products will be available in June 2003.
For more information on the PSR1100 and PSR2100, visit Yamaha
at Winter NAMM 2003 in the Marquis Ballroom at the Anaheim Marriott
Hotel; write Yamaha Corporation of America, Pro Audio &
Combo Division, Portable Keyboards, P.O. Box 6600, Buena Park,
CA 90622; telephone (714) 522-9011; e-mail infostation@yamaha.com;
or visit www.yamaha.com.
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