Yamaha Brings MIDI to Basses with the B1D Pickup

July 11, 1997 -- Yamaha Corporation of America, Audio, Guitar & Synthesizer Division, is introducing a new product at Summer NAMM which is sure to expand the MIDI horizons of electric bass players everywhere. The B1D Divided Bass Pickup allows the bass to control the G50 Guitar MIDI Converter and can be used with virtually any bass guitar. The B1D enables the bass to transmit MIDI information via the G50 which can be used to program any MIDI keyboard or control a synthesizer system.

Because the B1D has a 6-pole pickup, it can fit virtually any bass guitar-4-, 5- or 6-string. It can be attached in a number of different ways, temporary and permanent, and comes with all necessary mounting hardware and adapters. The B1D has a projected retail price of $249.95 and will begin shipping in August.

"Until now, bass players have had very few options for controlling synthesizers," notes Avery Burdette, product manager, Digital Musical Instruments Department, Yamaha Corporation of America. "This is the first pickup that can be attached to virtually any bass guitar. Due to the speed of G50 MIDI conversion technology, bass players can now take full advantage of the instrument's MIDI-programming capabilities."

A switch on the B1D controller allows the user to easily switch between the following output options: guitar, MIDI or both. "Players can choose between a bass synthesizer sound and a bass guitar sound, or use them both at once," adds Burdette. "This flexibility allows different combinations of sounds to be output, enhancing the creative possibilities of producing new and original sounds."

For more information, visit their web site at www.yamaha.com.