Specifications

eurOPe.Yamaha.cOm

A current sample package demonstrates that the Yamaha

MOTIF not only inspires for live gigs, but also in the creative

studio environment: „Evolving Soundscapes“ impressively

equips MOTIF XS and XF with pads, effects, bass, drums,

and many spherical sound collages. In this episode of the

workshop „Exploring Sound“, we outline how to produce a

downbeat track with this new sound content. My result can

be heard and seen on YouTube.

The title „Evolving Soundscapes“ itself feels epic and mysterious. When

playing the 128 Voices and 32 Performances mostly ad hoc concrete

ideas for songs arise. The currently coveted wobble bass sounds haven‘t

been available in any soundset for the Yamaha MOTIF yet. So prepare

to be overwhelmed by many dynamic new sound elements, based on

128 MB of new Samples and 128 User Waveforms which are animated

by 200 User Arpegggios. Although there are loads of sound effects,

you get enough substance for serious composing. Load the ALL file

„Evolving Soundscapes.X0A“ and get to know the first 128 Voices. By the

way: The second file „Evolving_Arps.X0G“ is only needed, if you want to

load single Voices.

MOTiF And diGiTAl AUdiO

wOrksTATiOn

Unlike the previous workshops we‘ll do the MIDI sequencing

and audio recording within a DAW. You are welcome to use any

arbitrary program - Cubase, Logic or any other software. We do

not go into the Sequencer program itself, but give only technical

information that you absolutely need to know.

First, connect the MOTIF and your computer via MIDI cables in

both directions. It is important that you disconnect the internal

tone generation from the MOTIF‘s keyboard. You can do this

using „MIDI Local Off“: Press the Utility button, then press

F5 (Control) and SF2 (MIDI). The parameter „Local Control“ is

listed in the Switch section, so set it to „off“. This will avoid the

unpleasant „flanging“ effect when you play the internal sounds

of the MOTIF via a MIDI loop.

The 32 Performances provide good starting points for your own

music. Play some of these combinations of up to four individual

Voices of the soundset and get motivated for fresh deeds.

Y AMAh A MUsic Pr O d U c T i O n GUide

03|2013

MOTiF Xs/XF:

eXPlOrinG

sOUnd: „evOlvinG

sOUndscAPes“

wOrkshOP series FOr YAMAhA MOTiF Users