Yamaha AN1x "Analog-Style" Synth

January 16, 1997 -- For the growing numbers of analog aficionados, Yamaha responds with a new offering at Winter NAMM which captures the sound and feel of an analog synthesizer through advances in DSP-based modeling of analog circuitry. The AN1x Virtual Analogue Synthesizer also features a familiar "analog-style" real-time interface with rotary knobs and all functions and edit parameters visible at one time on the display panel.

Ideal for live performance, the 61-key AN1x features 10-note polyphony, 8 rotary knobs, Scene Memory, Arpeggiator. "analog-feel" Step Sequencer and Parameter Sequencer. The unit will retail for approximately $1,495 and will begin delivery in May.

"The authentic character of the sounds is what will make this synthesizer a success," states Avery Burdette, product manager, Digital Musical Instruments Department, Yamaha Corporation of America. "Through the advantages of DSP-based modeling, the AN1x will possess the sound qualities and 'feel' of analog synthesizers, which are becoming increasingly popular in recent musical trends."

Digitally mirroring analog tone generation techniques, Yamaha's DSP-based Virtual Analogue Synthesis enables the AN1x to re-create vintage "analog" effects like pulse width modulation, ring modulation, and oscillator synchronization. The unit's 16-note Step Sequencer resembles the functionality of pattern sequencers in early analog synthesizers. In addition to preset patterns, up to 144 user-programmable 16-note patterns can be chained together for extended passages.

One of the AN1x's most powerful features is the 4-track Parameter Sequencer, which opens vast creative possibilities for truly unique sounds. "The user can choose up to four of 64 available parameters, record their movements over a period of time, and then store those dynamic changes as part of the sound," adds Burdette. "The potential for creating a totally unique and amazing sound is there. Initial reports indicate that the sounds are phenomenal."

All of these exciting tools are available to the performing musician at the touch of a knob-giving the user all of the immediacy of "analog-style" interfaces with the consistency and sound quality of digital. The AN1x keyboard features after touch, pitch bend and modulation wheels, and a vertically and horizontally sensitive ribbon controller for maximum user interaction and expression.

The AN1x offers a 30-pattern expanded Arpeggiator and two Scene Memories with the ability to crossfade between the two, further enhancing the performer's artistic palette. The unit allows the user to program up to 128 voices and offers four effects: Reverb, Delay, Variation, and EQ. Each of the 8 rotary knobs controls 8 functions for a total of 64 possible functions. The unit includes stereo 1/4-inch headphone jack, two 1/4-inch phone plug outputs, and three MIDI DIN jacks: IN, OUT, and THRU.

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