Yamaha V50 User manual

Operating Manual

SUPPLEMENTAL MARKING INFORMATION
This information on safety is provided to comply with U.S.A. laws, but should be observed by users in all countries.
Yamaha Digital Musical Instrument Products will have either a label similar to the graphic shown below or a molded/stamped
facsimile of the graphic on its enclosure. The explanation of these graphics appears on this page. Please observe all cautions
indicated.
The exclamation point within an equila-
teral triangle is intended to alert the user
to the presence of important operating
and maintenance (servicing) instructions
in the literature accompanying the pro-
duct.
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK.
DO NOT OPEN
The lightning flash with arrowhead sym-
bol, within an equilateral triangle, is in-
tended to alert the user to the presence
of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” @ a
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF
ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT REMOVE
COVER (OR BACK). NO USER-SERVICEABLE
PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO
QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL within the product’s enclosure that may
be of sufficient magnitude to constitute
a risk of electric shock to persons.
FCC INFORMATION
While the following statements are provided to comply with FCC
Regulations in the United States, the corrective measures listed
below are applicable worldwide.
IMPORTANT NOTICE
FOR THE UNITED KINGDOM
This series of Yamaha professional music equipment uses frequencies Connecting the Plug and Cord
that appear in the radio frequency range and if installed in the im-
mediate proximity of some types of audio or video devices (within
three meters), interference may occur. This series of Yamaha pro-
fessional music equipment has been type tested and found to comply
with the specifications set for a class B computing device in ac-
cordance with those specifications listed in subpart J of part 15 of
IMPORTANT. The wires in this mains lead are
coloured in accordance with the following code:
the FCC rules. These rules are designed to provide a reasonable BLUE NEUTRAL
measure of protection against such interference. However, this does
not guarantee that interference will not occur. If your professional
music equipment should be suspected of causing interference with BROWN : LIVE
other electronic devices, verification can be made by turning your
professional music equipment off and on. If the interference con-
tinues when your equipment is off, the equipment is not the source
of interference. If your equipment does appear to be the source of
the interference, you should try to correct the situation by using one
or more of the following measures:
Relocate either the equipment or the electronic device that is being
affected by the interference. Utitize power outlets for the professional
music equipment and the device being affected that are on different
branch (circuit breaker or fuse) circuits, or install AC line filters.
In the case of radio or TV interference, relocate the antenna or, if
the antenna lead-in is 300 ohm ribbon lead, change the lead-in to
a co-axial type cable.
If these corrective measures do not produce satisfactory results,
please contact your authorized Yamaha professional products dealer
for suggestions and/or corrective measures.
If you cannot locate a franchised Yamaha professional products
dealer in your generat area contact the Electronic Service Department,
Yamaha Corporation of America, 6600 Orangethorpe Ave., Buena
Park, CA 90620, U.S.A.
lf for any reason, you should need additional information relating
to radio or TV interference, you may find a booklet prepared by the
Federal Communications Commission helpful:
“How to identify and Resolve Radio — TV Interference Problems”.
This booklet is available from the U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington D.C, 20402 — Stock No. 004-000-00345-4.
As the colours of the wires in the mains lead of
this apparatus may not correspond with the
coloured markings identifying the terminals in
your plug proceed as follows:
The wire which is coloured BLUE must be
connected to the terminal which is marked with
the letter N or coloured BLACK.

VA m DIGITAL SYNTHESIZER
Operating Manual
Ta

INTRODUCTION
EEEE ee TS Ea TE TITIES
Thank you for purchasing the Yamaha V50 Digital Synthesizer. The V50 is a MIDI-
equipped synthesizer utilizing FM tone generation. In addition to its synthesizer
functions, the V50 features a built-in sequencer and rhythm machine, and can act
as an all-in- one music production system.
In order to make full use of the V50’s capabilities and enjoy long and trouble-free
use, please read this manual carefully before use.
FEATURES
SSS L TEN IT
Some of the V50’s many features are:
FM tone generation
Sound is produced using Yamaha’s unique FM tone
generation technology (4 operator, 8 algorithm).
One of 8 waveforms can be selected for the output
of each operator, for a wide variety of sounds.
16-note/8-timbre simultaneous notes
In single play mode a single voice can be played
with up to 16 simultaneous notes, and in perform-
ance play mode the 16 notes can be distributed
among up to eight different voices. In addition, DVA
(dynamic voice allocation) mode will automatically
determine the maximum number of simultaneous
notes for each voice, allowing you to concentrate
on your playing.
100 preset voices and performances
100 voices and 100 performances are built into the
permanent memory of the V50 covering a wide
variety of sounds from piano to brass to special
effects.
100 voice and performance memories
100 voice memories and 100 performance memo-
ries are provided for you to store your own cre-
ations,
8-track 16000-note (approximate) sequencer
In addition to the rhythm tracks, an 8-track se-
quencer is built into the V50. By recording musical
parts track by track you can build up an ensemble
of up to 8 instruments using just a single V50. Up
to 8 songs (within a total of approximately 16000
notes) can occupy the V50’s memory and be played
back in succession.
Rhythm machine with PCM-recorded sounds
A rhythm machine with 61 PCM-recorded sounds
is built in. In addition to traditional drum kit in-
struments, the 61 sounds include ethnic instru-
ments and synthesized percussion. These sounds
can be used in synchronization with the sequencer
playback.
Card slot, disk drive
Voice and performance data, and data for the se-
quencer and rhythm machine can be stored on card
or floppy disk. (However, sequencer data cannot
be stored on card.) An MDR function is provided,
allowing you to store system exclusive data from
external MIDI devices on a V50 disk.
Micro tuning
Tunings other than the conventional equal tem-
perament can be used. Tunings such as Werk-
meister and 1/4 tone are built in, and you can
program the pitch of each key to create your own
tunings.
Performance effects
Three performance effects are built in; delay, pan,
and chord. Four settings of each effect can be
memorized.
Digital effects
A digital effects unit is built in, providing effects such
as digital reverb and digital delay. An effect can be
specified for each voice or performance, allowing
you to use a digital effect as part of the voice or
performance data.
User-editable power-on character display
You can specify a greeting message to be displayed
whenever the power is turned on.
0s
05

CONTENTS
ST Ae Te ES
Precautions: ascstg iron ay pertieetseeesciten A Ales 4
How to use this manual .......cceeececececeseeseeeeeeeeeeeeesees 5
Chapter 1 Introducing the V50...................... 6
Front and rear panels ........0.0.0cceeccccceeeeeeesseeeeeeeeeeees 6
Connections ............00.- 10
Using a single amp 10
Using two amp... eeceeeeeeeeeeeeee 2 10
Connecting other equipment via MIDI. ae 10
Making sound .......cecccccceseseeeeseeeeseeeesees ae Ll
Turn the power on . H
Any SOUT? chs oh irie A eed eee th
Try Out the SOUNS........ ee eeeeceeeeeeeeeeereeeeteenneeeeetees 12
100 preset performances ..0.......0.ceccceceesseeeneseees 12
100 preset VOICES... cccecsseccecessessseeteeeeeeeesses 12
A Demonstration playback... ccs teenies 14
Playing the internal demo „csecsen 14
Playing the disk demo n.. 14
Basic concepts of the V50 .......cccceeeeeseecttecenseesseeeee 15
Internal structure of the V50... 1S
Four play modes ......ccceecesceesseceseeesneeeeeeeeeeees 15
Basic operation of the V50 ........cceeeeseeeeseesseeseeeees 16
Switching modes........seessseereerrrerrrrrisriessrssresns 16
Using the function keys to select operations... 16
Setting numerical values .......0. cece eeeeeeeeeees 17
Inputting Characters l.enn 17
Voices and performances ............:ccceseeeeseceeeseeeeeeees 18
VOICES 3253 a aioi she icp Soa Soa tev es toca LA EASE aeti 18
Single play mode and maximum
simultaneous notes 2.0... cece ee eeeeeeseeeteneeeeneees 18
Single play mode display... 18
Single play mode LEDS... ee ceeeceeseeeeteeees 18
Performance ......cceecceeeceeseecenneeseeseesesseesenatens 19
Performance play mode and maximum
simultaneous NOLES 2... eee eeeceeeeeeeeeeeseeeeneneees 19
Performance play mode display 20
Performance play mode LEDs. 20
Switching instruments on/off... ee 20
When to use single play or performance
play mode sissies a i 20
EFEC Sosia ae
Changing the power-on display ... . 22
Compatibility with other devices oo... eee 22
Data compatibility with other devices............... 22
GCartinid fess roarai Aa ANE ERE 22
Chapter 2 Performance Edit ......................... 23
About performance editing... 23
Performance di tyes sve ieia a scat Seta aves 24
Assign mode, performance name... 24
Nole Sra aanre eie E edie eea 24
VOICE NUM ben eeii a foes eee aspido rint 25
ReGeive: channel-eesniuonn aa nE 25
Note-limit (low). canana areenan ase 25
Note limit (high)... cceccesccesceeeeeesessseeeeesenenee 26
Detune isi sacar ite ini a A N ei aads 26
Note shift arneses ceideenes Suid doves 27
MVolüumenene denea a e ok nas a E ath bas 27
Output assigns enice aiik 27
LO! select :s2cch este nee Aeneas 28
Micro tuning on/off... 28
Micro tuning select..........cccccessesssecceeceeessnteeeeees 29
Performance effect select... 30
Effect: On/Off o ranae na auctest. dor ieeveanede 30
Effect select, effect balance... eeeeeeeees 30
Effect output level, stereo MiX... 31
Effect parameters een raoran eia atia iA Eaa iA 32
Chapter 3 Voice Edit.................00 aaa 36
The basics of FM tone generation s.es 36
Opera OTS d aa hat an annee tinara ie a 36
Combinations of Operators... 36
Carrier and modulator oseese 36
Algorithmi ieena ea 37
Factors determining the tone of a voice............ 37
About voice editing... ccc ceccceneesseecseesteeeseeenees 38
Operator on/off orane eine sides teens 38
VOICE editie sausame nnn pa 39
About quüick:editsat enn n 39
Quick edit (attack) oo... eee ceccsseeeeeteeeesteeeees 39
Quick edit (release)... eeccceceeseeeeeeseeeesstseeese 39
Quick edit (volume)... 39
Quick edit (brilliance)... 40
Algorithm, feedback ...0....0 ccc eceeceeeeeneteeeeee 40
LFO (wave, speed, delay, key sync, PMD,
AMD) sete: cuaiecasiescclichavnseoventsenta oa sedans catenins 41
Sensitivity (PMS, AMS, AME, EBS, KVS)...... 43
Oscillator (mode, coarse, fine, wave, detune,
Shift} TANSE) isis sii ei aiaia ansias 44
Envelope generator (AR, DIR, D2L, D2R,
RR. Shift): eriin nra ete aaa RE 45
Pitch envelope generator (PR1, PL1, PR2,
PL2, PR3, PL3)...
Output level... w. 48
Keyboard scaling (rate)... we 48
Keyboard scaling (level)..... n 48
TYamSPOSe soci: ccses-sscgexciesshsedsoetages . 49
Poly/mono mode select, pitch bend wheel range,
FOOL SWICK eriaren aer raai 49
Portamento (mode, time) ..........0..ccceeceeeeeeeeeeee 50
Foot controller (volume, pitch, amplitude) ....... 50
Modulation wheel (pitch, amplitude) ............0.. Sl
Breath controller (pitch, amplitude, pitch bias,
EG! Diash hen artes suelo eas tise E E Ada ih 52
1

Aftertouch (pitch, amplitude, pitch bias,
EG bids) ea ann a aia $3
EEAS d o EEE E AA A E 54
VOICE names ern r a S ROEE 54
Effect select, effect balance..........eseeeeeeeeereeereesee 54
Effect output level, stereo MIX........... eee eee 55
Effect parameters svs erered iNo a 56
Chapter 4 Using the rhythm machine ........ 57
About the rhythm machine... ees eees centers 57
The rhythm machine tone generator ................. 57
Rhythm patterns and rhythm songs................. 57
Rhythm patterns... ceceeceeseesecsseesseerseessees 58
Rhythm SONES een eraris 58
The rhythm machine and sequencer.................. 58
Playing rhythm patterns... ce eeeecseseesteeeeeeeee 58
Creating rhythm patterns......0....c eee ee eeeteeeeeseeeeeeee 60
Realtime recording and step recording.............. 60
Before you begin recording ..........eceeeeeseeeeeeee 60
Realtime recording............eeccsececceessseeeeeeeeseneeseceenenes 6l
Step recorditg neer a ra a 62
Using the bar graph........ssresesererreereeesersessersersresreseet 63
Pattern job functions .....sssssesseseresseresssrrsserenereereees 66
COPT nia Eaa Aaa Ea EN E 66
IGN GAT E TAE E E T T 67
SE tip AOE ENEE E TTT 67
TASE SECTS A wesseeseipvacogantse ce 68
Rhythm assign... ces ceseecsecessecsseeeereeseeeenes 69
Playing rhythm Songs..........cecscscseesesesseeseereeeeeseees 71
Parts and patterns
Special non-pattern functions.
Creating a rhythm song...
Editing a rhythm song..... 75
Jump....... 73
Insert T
Delete.. E e
Copy... E
LLENA a B EE T EAE ates 75
SONG NAM Cy areari E agea iepa a aiea 76
Song job fUnctions ........ eee cece creer cen eeeeeeeeeeneaee 76
Song editos eetan eer kaS EE EE E T A 76
SOES] 0a EN ENT T 76
E E C EE E 77
SETUD art rnr eer E EENE a s 71
TASE S@ttim gS siii iaie enneren ea cts 71
Rhythm assign... pirisee esatia inei 77
SCAPCH 4 sccideten theteetieidaciacdetes ea adeeseateteesae deen cece 77
Chapter 5 Using the sequencer.................... 78
About the sequencer... eee
What is a sequencer? ....
Trackman hre a eae eed
SONS A EE E E E eee Be oe see 78
Sequienicer data iein ern E 79
The sequencer and the synthesizer...............0.05 79
Synthesizer preparations ..........cscceceeseeseeeeterseeee 80
Rhythm machine preparations............0:::ceseeeeeee 81
Realtime recording procedure..... we 82
Select the sequencer function... 82
Select a song to record......... . 82
Select realtime recording ... 82
Set recording conditions... . 83
Start and Stop recording... . 83
Step recording procedure........ . 84
Select the sequencer function... eee 84
Select a song to record „neeesser 84
Select step récordin srcima aia 84
Set recording conditions s... 84
Start and Stop recording ......esseserseeeererersereen 85
Playing, a song aieri dee dive dn i EEA 87
Punch-in recording..sunsiii eirean iirin 88
Setup: functions aor eaei ea ih os ote EA in 88
Setting transmit channels... eee eeeeeenseaeeees 90
Song job functions 62.60 pavexgseiec deedecitegeceeterresdeteestes 90
Edit ftincttOns: a 2; fade teccaeeiiieasdedeis iara EGLE 91
Track mixdown .........:cecceccccesseerreeeneeeeseerneateeeees 91
QUantize oie aoa a Eer ne En N A Esr E 91
Delete eran oraren AN ETR E AEE 92
Disert ieee eek iv A a Aeae a Ra 92
COPY EEA vente cthnuidagieers 92
Erase loss cates uny Reiger 2 bas oh ote 93
Removes 23s chic ene Ae de eich enka 93
Setting recording Conditions ..........cecceeeceetseeeseenes 94
Storing setup data... ccc riirii ini 94
Chapter 6 Utility functions...............000000... 95
Card GpératiOns cic chic. a ee e e aroun nins
Type of memory card
About Card formatting eerren 95
About Card banksector 95
Channel information (MIDI on/off, basic
receive channel, keyboard transmit channel,
local on/oli) aene Sacco th eee lines 99
Switch (MIDI contro! change, MIDI
aftertouch, MIDI pitch bend).............. ee 100
Condition (note on/off, data entry assign)........ 101
Program change .............. eee ana E N 101
Program change table initialize ............. 102
Program change table edit... eee 103
Exclusive message (device number) -sanss 103
Exclusive message (bulk dump)..................065 103
CT

Ma
Aboutsthe disk einna 105
DAVES E A E AE A EE E AEAEE T 105
1o K CEA PA E ce ete aviencathaiaesten: 105
Delete A E AEEA EE PE AE E 106
Rename mne a are a ee 107
MDR aaa ds Be elec Bet en 107
Directory 108
Format ..... . 108
Backup.. ..108
Status..... ; ....109
Memory protect .........cceeeeseeeseeseees 109
Memory protect (internal, card). . 109
Setup functions ..... eee eeseeeneeetteeeteees -110
Master tuning, synthesizer volume. 110
COMbINE etsn tieeeip hinletiigecornss 110
Controller Treset oaia 110
Performance effect (delay)...........:ccccsececesseeeeeees 111
Performance effect (pan) ......seeseecssecesnrserereeneene 112
Performance effect (chord)... 113
About microtuning .........c00cccccccccessseeeeesseeeesseeees 114
Microtuning (octave edit).....0..cccccceseceseesseeees 114
Microtuning (octave initialize) .....0..0. ee 114
Microtuning (full keyboard edit).......0..0.0..08 115
Microtuning (full keyboard initialize) ............... 115
Velocity (fixed velocity, velocity curve)............. 115
Damp (EG forced damp, volume damp)........... 116
Other fUmctions erae anii aroan viii 117
Voice initialize...
Performance initialize
VOICE: Peal fees e. seen mar rien na i
Performance recall
Preset load harusi in esa react
VOICE OCI Ea cee elect aces vas iei Meee
Store fUnCtONns Arse Met nia dani
WViOICEYSLOTE: an acs avent. tot Misa le
Performance store
Voice store when using voice edit...............00008 119
Copy Functions .i.c.cssccssnsarsdsvasernceeorsieenasevcteavecrveteesnee 120
Elect COPY oie. Ss Aa NS ee eh leh ete, 120
Performance effect copy... 120
Envelope generator copy... 120
Compare functions... 121
Voice compare. 121
Performance COMPpare.........ccceeeecceeseeeeeeeeteees 121
Appéndix iroi n baad ae andds 122
Troubleshooting nreo r aiaee E eN 122
Preset VOICES E ee E EE 124
Preset performances oerrinnende 124
Initialized performance settings ..........cceeeteeees 125
Initialized voice settings... cece eeeeeeneesseeeneees 126
Specificato NS zeceacieteeeccec cad eyansee dogs cedeadteaeates Mevadhazees 127
MIDI data format ..oo.....o. cece 128
MIDI Implementation Chart ..0......0c cece 145
Performance data blank chart... 148
Voice data blank chart... cccccccecccccessceeeesseeecnsaees 149
IMPORTANT SAFETY AND INSTALLATION
INSTRUCTION S e re eine
SPECIAL MESSAGE SECTION..

PRECAUTIONS
2 ET I SS
The V50 is a precision electronic instrument. To ensure long and trouble-free use,
please read the following precautions.
Location
Avoid placing the V50 in direct sunlight, or in locations
where it will be subjected to temperature extremes,
moisture, excessive dust, or heavy vibration.
Handling
Avoid applying excessive force to the switches,
dropping or rough handling of the unit. While the
circuitry is of reliable integrated circuit design, the V50
should be treated with care.
Power cable
Always grip the plug directly when removing it from
an AC outlet. Removing the plug from the AC outlet
by pulling the cable can result in damage to the cable,
and possibly a short circuit. It is also a good idea to
disconnect the V50 from the AC outlet if you don’t
plan to use it for an extended period of time.
Turning the power on
If one or more devices are connected to the V50 via
MIDI cable, turn on the power switches starting with
the transmitting devices (keyboards, sequencers, etc.)
Connections
To avoid damage to speakers, make all audio con-
nections with the power of the V50 and other units
turned off.
MIDI cables
Use cables specifically intended for MIDI. Using MIDI
cables longer than 15 meters (45 feet) can result in data
errors.
Cleaning
Use only a mild detergent on a cloth, and dry with a
soft cloth. Never use solvents (such as benzine or
thinner) since they can melt or discolor the finish.
Electrical storms (lightning)
Computer circuitry, including that in the V50, is sen-
sitive to voltage spikes. For this reason, the V50 should
be turned off and unplugged from the AC outlet in the
event of an electrical storm. This precaution will
minimize the chance that a high voltage spike caused
by lightning will damage the unit.
Electromagnetic fields
Computer circuitry is also sensitive to electromagnetic
radiation. Television sets, radio receivers, transmitters
and transceivers, and wireless microphone or intercom
systems are all potential sources of such radiation. The
V50 should not be placed too close to such devices.
Backup battery
The V50 has a backup battery that allows it to retain
its voice and performance data even when discon-
nected from the AC outlet. The life of this battery is
approximately 5 years. When the backup battery runs
low, the first line of the LCD will show “Change int
battery!”. When the backup battery runs completely
out, the voice and performance data will be lost, so
immediately save the data to an optional RAM card
or to disk. Contact the dealer where you purchased
your V50 or a Yamaha service center to have the
battery replaced. When the battery is replaced, the
voice and performance data will be lost, so be sure to
store the data to RAM card or disk.
Floppy disk drive
When moving the V50, be sure to insert the included
dummy disk or an ordinary floppy disk (only if the data
is not essential) into the disk drive to protect the floppy
disk drive heads.
Floppy disks
Use 3.5” 2DD (double sided double density) disks.
NEVER remove the disk while the drive is accessing
the disk (when the disk LED is on). Do not leave disks
where there is a strong magnetic field (near speakers
or video monitors), or in direct sunlight. Do not bend
or put pressure on disks. Do not open the disk shutter
and touch the disk surface. We recommend that you
copy (backup) important data on one or more disks.
Yai
(Jia

HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL
This manual is divided into chapters 1—6 and an appendix.
If you are using the V50 for the first time, we suggest you read chapter 1. This
will give you a basic understanding of all operations. You can refer to the remaining
chapters as necessary, when you want to take full advantage of the V50’s functions.
Chapter
1. Introducing the
V50
3. Voice Edit
5. Using the
sequencer
6. Utility functions
Appendix
MIDI format
2. Performance Edit
4. Using the rhythm
Important points to know
when using the V50, and basic
operation
Explains how to edit a per-
formance
Explains how to edit a voice
Explains how to use the
Explains how to use the se-
quencer
Explains how to store, use the
disk and card, and make MIDI
settings
Explains the preset voices
Explains the MIDI data for-
mat of the V50
Please read this section
Read when you want to edit a performance
Not absolutely nec-
essary to read
Read when necessary
Read when you want
to edit a voice
the sequencer
Read when necessary
Read when necessary
Read when necessary
Read when you want to use the rhythm machine
machine rhythm machine |
Read when you want to use
Read when necessary

CHAPTER
1.
INTRODUCING
THE
V50
This
chapter
begins
with
explaining
the
parts
of
the
V50,
and
then
tells
how
to
make
connections
and
play
the
sounds.
To
take
full
advantage
of
the
V50,
please
be
sure
to read this chapter.
FRONT AND REAR PANELS
Fe
a
L
We
begin
by
explaining
the
various
parts
of
the
V50.
The
use
of
each
section
will
be
explained
in
chapter
2
and
later
chapters.
Here
we
will
give
simple
explanations
of
what each part does.
The keyboard
eee BBR
OHA ooo
HooeooH
OOH |
i
HI
EEL
@
Pitch
bend
wheel
(PITCH)
©
This
raises
or
lowers
the
pitch
while
playing.
When
you
release
the
wheel,
it
will
return
to
the
center
position
(the
normal
pitch).
Rotating
the
wheel
away
from
you
will
raise
the
pitch,
and
rotating
the
wheel
toward
you
will
lower
the
pitch.
@ Modulation wheel (MODULATION)
This
regulates
the
amount
of
cyclic
change
in
tone
Q
(wah-wah), cyclic change in volume (tremolo). or
cyclic change in pitch (vibrato). Rotating the wheel
away from you will cause a deeper effect, and ro-
tating it all the way towards you will result in no
effect.
6 Introducing the V50
eer
=
—_
Floppy disk drive
This is where you insert a 3.5” floppy disk to store
voice or performance data, or data from the se-
quencer or rhythm machine. Insert the disk with
the label facing up, from the end with the metal
shutter.
To
remove
the
disk.
press
the
button
at
the
lower right of the drive.
Volume slider (VOLUME)
This slider regulates the volume. Moving the slider
all the way towards you results in a volume of 0,
and
moving
it
all
the
way
away
from
you
will
result
in full volume.
¢*

p>
4
© Data entry slider (DATA ENTRY/TEMPO)
This slider is used when setting various data to enter
larger or smaller numbers or turn settings off or on.
While the rhythm machine or sequencer is playing,
this slider regulates the tempo.
Card slot (CARD)
This is the slot in which to insert a RAM or ROM
card. Cards can be used to save voice, performance,
or rhythm data. Turn the power off before inserting
or removing a card.
Key panel (the keys below the display)
T
(8)
Display
This displays the names of selected voices or per-
formances, data values, on/off settings, etc.
C3 key mark
Each key of the keyboard has a name consisting
of an alphabetical character A~G and a number
—2 — 8 indicating the octave. (For example G-1,
C#1, E4, GS, A6, etc.) This mark indicates the po-
sition of C3.
INST_ON/OFF
ee
Ae E =
A SYSTEM. a A
OP SELECT OPERATOR. ON/OFF
2
RECORD aw — TOP — STOP
SEQUENCER
PLAY
@ Function keys
These keys have various functions when editing
voices or performances, or editing sequencer or
rhythm machine data. The display will indicate the
current function of each key.
System keys
These are used with the sequencer or rhythm ma-
chine, or when editing sequencer or rhythm machine
data. When you press you will enter sequencer
play mode. When you press[|RHYTHM] you will
enter rhythm play mode (pattern play mode or song
play mode). In sequencer or rhythm machine mode,
pressing[JOB] will display menus of various settings
for each mode.
8
es
Sequencer, rhythm machine keys
In sequencer or rhythm machine mode, you can start,
stop, and move backwards or forward with these
keys, just as with the controls on a cassette recorder.
Pressing [ o | and together will move to the
beginning of the song. In rhythm pattern mode, this
will move to the beginning of the pattern. When
editing a voice, the [<<], [co J], Ce], and [œ]
keys will switch operators 1, 2, 3, and 4 off or on.
Le _] selects the operator to be edited.
Numeric keys
Use these keys to specify voice or performance
numbers, or values for various settings. They are
also used to enter characters for a voice name, etc.,
and to specify the note length when recording a
sequence. The keys are also used when
replying to prompts in the display.
Introducing the V50 7

Key
panel
(the
keys
to
the
right
of
the
display)
VOICE
Ni
TR3 UMBER
LFO
@ Play keys
These keys are used to switch between performance
play and single play modes.
Press [PERFORMANCE] to change to performance
play mode. Press [SINGLE] to change to single
play mode.
Memory keys
These keys select between “Preset”, “Card”, or
“Internal” voices, performances, and rhythm pat-
terns. (However, there are no “Card” rhythm pat-
terns.)
8 Introducing the V50
ASSIGN )
MODE o TRS
EDIT
NOTES f
TR2 | TRE
O ALGO- o |
: RITHM \
INST
DETUNE
PEG
NOTE SHIFT
OUT
ASSI
SCALING
OUTPUT
FUNCTION
EFFECT
EFFECT
LEVEL
IGN
UTILITY
© Edit keys
When editing voices or performances, these keys
specify the parameter to be edited. During sequencer
playback, these keys switch each track on/off. They
are also used to select tracks for recording.
Utility keys
These keys are used when making various settings
or for various operations affecting the entire V50.
Demo key
Use this key to play the preset V50 demo.
es
(Yam

Rear panel
§ *
@ Power cable
5 *
@
Insert this plug into an AC outlet of the correct
voltage.
Power switch (POWER)
This is the power switch. The power is on when this
switch is pressed in. The front panel display will light
when the power is turned on.
MIDI terminals (IN, OUT, THRU)
Connect MIDI cables to these terminals. IN receives
MIDI signals, OUT transmits MIDI signals, and
THRU re-transmits the MIDI signals that were re-
ceived at the IN terminal.
Audio Outputs (L/MONO, R)
These jacks output the sound. If you have two
amplifiers, connect the left channel to L/MONO
and the right channel to R. If you have only one
amplifier, connect it to L/MONO.
Front side
©
(6)
Volume pedal jack (VOLUME)
An optional volume pedal can be connected here.
Foot controller jack (FC)
An optional foot controller (FC7, FC9, etc.) can
be connected here to regulate tone, pitch, or volume.
Foot switch jack (FS)
An optional foot switch (FC4, FCS, etc.) can be
connected here to turn sustain (sustaining notes)
or the portamento (smoothly changing pitch) on/off.
Sequencer switch jack (PLAY/STOP)
An optional foot switch (FC4, FCS, etc.) can be
connected here to start or stop sequencer playback.
(This will function in the same way as the front panel
keys [> ] and [co _] but not while recording.)
Headphone output (PHONES)
A pair of stereo headphones can be connected here.
The connector is a standard stereo headphone output
jack, and corresponds to the rear panel L and R
output jacks. (Use headphones of 8-150 ohms
impedance.)
Breath controller jack (BREATH CONT)
An optional breath controller (BC1, BC2) can be
connected here to affect volume or tone according
to the force of your breath.
Introducing the V50 9

CONNECTIONS
apy
a
a
a
ee
To
produce
sound,
you
must
connect
the
V50
to
an
external
amp/speaker
system
or
use
a
pair
of
headphones.
This
section
shows
some
typical
setups.
(The
“amps”
in
the
diagram
refer
to
a
keyboard
amp
that
has
a
speaker
built
in.)
Note:
so can damage the amp.
Be
sure
to
turn
the
power
of
both
units
off
before
connecting
the
V50
to
the
amp.
Failing
to
do
Using a single amp
Connecting other equipment via MIDI
When using just one amp, connect the L/MONO jack
to the input of the amp as shown in the figure.
oa oO o
INPLT L/MONO
Amp V50
Using two amps
When using two amps, connect the L/MONO output
jack to the amp for the left channel, and the R output
jack to the amp for the right channel.
_.
Equipment
that
can
be
connected
to
the
V50
outputs
The example above uses keyboard amps (speakers
with built-in amps), but other types of equipment can
be connected to the V50 outputs, as follows.
e Combination amp/speaker units
e Multitrack recorders or cassette decks. However,
be sure to use the line inputs. Connecting the output
of the V50 to the mic inputs could damage the
equipment. When connecting to a cassette deck
etc., you will need an adaptor to convert the phone
plug into the pin plug that is found on most cassette
decks.
e
Mixers
(e.g.,
the
MV802
or
DMP7).
Be
sure
to
use
the
line
inputs.
10 introducing the V50
Here are some ways to connect other equipment to the
V50 using the MIDI terminals.
e Controlling the V50 from another MIDI device (a
keyboard
or
synthesizer
such
as
the
KX
or
DX
series).
Vow
|
MIDI cable
o w= AA OO
MIDI IN MIDI OUT
v50
MIDI keyboard, synthesizer
e Controlling another MIDI device (a synthesizer or
tone generator module such as the DX or TX series)
from the V50.
MIDI cable
Ga et o
MIDI OUT MIDI 1N
v50
Synthesizer, tone generator
module
Note:
This
is
also
how
you
will
make
connections
when
using
s
the
V50
sequencer
to
control
external
synthesizers
()
s
or tone generator modules.
e Connecting an external sequencer (such as the QX
series) and using it to record and playback.
MIDI cable
o me -= m
HID our | MIDI cable [sia Ww
Oo M = —— w
MIDI OLT
v50
Sequencer
There
are
many
other
ways
to
make
MIDI
connections,
depending
on
your
equipment
and
needs.
The
MIDI
THRU
terminal
re-transmits
the
MIDI
signals
received
at
MIDI
IN.
This
makes
it
possible
for
more
than
one
MIDI
device
to
be
controlled
at
once.
Se eee ANN a ee a a e

ç>
MAKING SOUND
OO U Uuuu]
Now that connections are complete, we will explain how to make some sounds.
Turn the power on
Any sound?
Turn on each device in your setup in the following order.
a)
—
Q
Check the following four items.
(1) Are all power cables correctly inserted into an
AC outlet?
(2) Are all connections correct?
(3) Are the amplifiers set to minimum volume?
(4) Is the V50 volume slider set to MIN?
The round button on the right side of the rear panel
is the power switch. Press it in to turn the V50 power
on.
Off On
The display will light up, and show the following
message. (You can modify the message in the lower
line of the display as explained on page 22.)
eA Et
In a short time this will change to a display similar
to the following.
* This display will be whatever was displayed when the V50
was last turned off, so details may be slightly different.
Turn the amp (keyboard amp, etc.) power on. (The
amp power is turned on last to protect the speakers
from possible damage.)
Note:
When several MIDI devices are connected, turn
them on beginning with the transmitting device.
When turning the power off, reverse this order
~1.e, turn off the amp, and then turn off the V50.
Now we will produce some sound.
a)
2)
(3)
Raise the volume of the amp. (The manual for your
amp will give details.)
Gradually raise the volume slider to increase the
V50 volume.
Press a key.
Is the V50 sounding? If not, check the following.
(1) Is the power of the V50 and the amp turned
on?
(2) Are the V50 and the amp correctly connected?
(3) Are the volumes of V50 and amp raised?
Hf after checking these three items you still hear no
sound, try the steps given on the following page. If
you still hear no sound, see page 122.
Now let’s try out the various sounds of the V50.
Introducing the V50 11

TRY OUT THE SOUNDS
a
ae
When
you
purchase
the
V50,
the
following
200
sounds
are
available
for
you
to
play.
(1)
100
preset
performances
(2)
100
preset
voices
Later,
we
will
explain
what
a
“voice”
and
“performance”
is.
For
now,
just
try
playing
the sounds.
Note:
In addition to these presets, there are 100 internal performances and 100 internal voices. At the
time
of
purchase,
these
contain
the
same
sounds
as
the
preset
voices
and
performances.
100
preset
performances
(5)
This
time
press
[=1]
[+1]
e
Pressing
[+1]
will increment
to
the
next
per-
(1)
Press
[PERFORMANCE],
located
at
the
right
of
the
formance.
display.
If
the
display
already
shows
something
similiar
to
the
following,
there
is
no
need
to
press
,
;
:
[PERFORMANCE],
and
you
can
move
on
to
step
e
For
instance
if
preset
performance
12
is
selected,
(2).
e Pressing [—1] will decrement to the previous ¢
performance. ( pi
pressing[ +1] will select preset performance 13.
As you have learned, there are two ways to select
numbers; by directly entering the number using the
numeric keys, or by incrementing or decrementing
the currently selected number using[= 1] [+1].
Preset performances from 94—99 are intended for
multi-timbral playback using the V50 sequencer.
When playing the keyboard with these performances
selected, some of the sounds may be identical to other
performances,
and
not
all
of
the
instruments
shown
in
the
lower
line
of
the
display
will
sound
in
response
Y
«=
to the V50 keyboard.
The polyphony of each performance will depend on
how voices are combined, and the performance effects
that are used.
(3) Use the numeric keys to enter a two-digit number.
The 100 preset performances are numbered 00 — 99.
For example if you press [0 ]. CO], the display
will indicate that preset performance 00 has been
selected, as follows.
e Play the keyboard and you will hear the sound
of preset performance 00.
(4) Using the same proceedure as in step (3), use the 100 preset voices
numeric keys to enter a different two-digit number
to
select
another
performance.
Play
the
keyboard
(1)
Press
[SINGLE],
located
at
the
right
of
the
display.
and
you
will
hear
a
different
sound.
If
the
display
already
shows
something
similiar
to
the following, there is no need to press [SINGLE],
and you can move on to step (2).
EFC
tk
Po Peat, fe
| PLAM S
i Tee Strings 1
Yl oF ral
Fota J
12 Introducing the V50
Se eae ne O r O y; ee

6^
(2) Press [PRESET]. The lower left of the display will
show “P??”, as follows.
FLAY SIHGLE EFI
Pe? Strings 1 F
=KevRoom: Fi Fbs 2
CTr Flt 1
è Select a preset voice number (00 — 99) in the same
way as you selected a preset performance. Use
the numeric keys to directly enter a two-digit
number, or use to step through preset
performances one by one.
This should give you an idea of the types of sounds
the V50 can produce. Using the simple procedures
you have just learned, you will be able to select and
play a variety of sounds. Those who want to take
full advantage of the V50 can continue reading to
learn more.
Pressing when already in per-
formance play mode, or pressing when
already in single play mode will make the display show
“Sending PC No.---”. The display will return to
normal when you release the button. This function
allows you to transmit a “Program Change” message
from MIDI OUT. This function is meaningless when
using the V50 by itself. For details, see page 103.
Note:
Since voice and performance memories are numbered
from 00 to 99, selecting a memory usually requires
you to enter a two-digit number. However, the “Bank
Hold” feature allows you to select memories by
pressing a single button. While holding [= }, press
[7]. to turn Bank Hold on. When Bank Hold is
on, pressing a single numeric key will immediately
select the memory in the group of 10’s that is currently
selected. For example if memory 23 was selected
when you turned Bank Hold on, pressing [_9_]. would
immediately select 29, and pressing 4 would imme-
diately select 24. While holding [=], press [-8 ].
to turn Bank Hold off.
Introducing the V50 13

DEMONSTRATION
PLAYBACK
aE
ee
eee
ae
Playing
interesting
sounds
is
not
all
you
can
do
with
the
V50.
Next
we
will
explain
how
to
hear
a
demo
playback
that
uses
the
V50
sequencer
and
rhythm
machine,
which
should
give
you
an
idea
of
the
possibilities
of
the
V50.
There
are
two
types
of
demo:
demos
stored
in
the
memory
of
the
V50
and
demos
stored
on
disk.
We
will
give
separate
explainations
how
to
load
each
type.
When
you
load
demo
data,
the
data
already
in
the
V50
will
be
replaced
by
the
demo
data.
When
you
select
“Demo
Disk”,
“Chain
Play”,
or
“V.Edit”,
the
internal
voice
and
performance
data
will
also
be
replaced.
If
V50
memory
already
contains
data
that
you
don’t
want
to
loose,
save
the
data
to
card
or
disk.
Playing the internal demo
Playing the disk demo
Here’s how to playback the internal demo.
(1) Press [DEMO] to get the following display.
(2) Press the (function key) located under
“> ROM Play” in the display.
L O ROS
The upper line of the display will ask “Are you
sure?”
par
R
ce
i
(3)
Press
the
function
key
(E_])
below
[YES].
After
displaying “*** BUSY ***” for a short time, the
following display will appear.
IRT
START
STOP 2EXIT |
[UT DENG?
| paom Loe
(4)
Use
[£1]
to
select
the
demo
song.
The
song
titles will be shown in the lower line of the display.
(5)
Press
[_>_]
to
begin
playing
the
demo
song.
To
stop
playback, press [o]. To resume playback, press
[> ] again. Press [E] and [>] together to re-
turn to the beginning of the song.
14 Introducing the V50
Here’s how to playback the disk demo. (Not only the
demo data included with the V50, but any data you save
to disk by selecting “ALL” can be loaded and played
using the procedures explained here.)
(1) Press [DEMO] to get the following display.
ainPlaw Pu. Edit |
(2) Insert the demo disk into the disk drive. (Making
sure that the label is facing up, and the metal shutter
is pointing toward the drive, push the disk in until
you hear it click into place.)
(3) Press the [___] (function key) located under “ > Disk
Play” in the display.
The upper line of the display will ask “Are you
sure?”.
(4) Press the function key (L__]) below [YES].
[uT DEMO: Disk Flay Are D4 Sure
All data will be changed ! CHol
Ti 1 ` by il
After displaying “*** BUSY ***” for a short time,
you will get the following display.
& push START
SSTHRTSETOPSERTT |
GENO
va dot f
l
(5) Use E [+1] to select the song. The song titles
will be shown in the lower line of the display.
(6) Press [> ] to begin playing the demo song. To stop
playback, press |_9 To resume playback, press
Yo j

[Ce] again. Press [© | and [> ] together to re-
turn to the beginning of the song.
In step (3), pressing the [___] (function key) located
under “Chain Play” will make all the demo songs
play sucessively, starting with the first. Also, if this
data has been saved by selecting “ALL” when saving
sequencer data, as later explained, you can use the
same steps with disks other than the included demo
disks. However only the “ALL” files at the beginning
of the disk can be selected by this “Disk Play”
function.
Voice edit demo
Here’s how to execute the voice edit demo.
e As already explained above, press [DEMO], and then
press the [__] (function key) located under “V.Edit”
in the display.
The display will show “Are you sure?”.
Press the [_] (function key) located under “Yes”.
The voice edit demo will begin.
Use the data entry slider to adjust the speed of the
voice edit demo.
= BASIC CONCEPTS OF THE V50
po ee eee eee ee e a a a L L
By now you probably have a basic idea of the possibilities of the V50.
Reading this section will give you more detailed knowledge.
Internal structure of the V50
The V50 contains three devices; a synthesizer, rhythm
machine, and sequencer. In general, you may think of
them as being independent of each other.
Synthesizer ... A device that produces various sounds
using an FM tone generator. The synthesizer can be
thought of as consisting of the “keyboard” on which
you play, and the “tone generator” which actually
produces the sounds.
6 Rhythm machine ... A device that contains PCM re-
cordings of actual rhythm instrument sounds. The
wide variety of sounds include traditional drum kit
instruments, synthesized drums, and ethnic instru-
ments.
Sequencer ... A device to record an actual musical per-
formance. A musical performance recorded in this
way can be played back at any time.
Four play modes
Just as the internal structure of the V50 can be divided
into synthesizer, rhythm machine, and sequencer, the
play modes of the V50 can be divided into the following
four modes.
(1) Performance play mode
Play performances (combinations of more than one
voice). Details of “voices” and “performances” are
given on page 18.
(2) Single play mode
Play just one voice at a time.
(3) Rhythm machine play mode
Play rhythm patterns or songs (combinations of
rhythm patterns). Chapter 4 has details of rhythm
machine operation.
(4) Sequencer play mode
Play back a recorded musical performance. Chapter
5 has details of sequencer operation.
Introducing the V50 15
= EE Ree

BASIC OPERATION OF THE V50
ET
O
ESS
First we will explain basic operations when playing or editing voices, performances,
the sequencer, or rhythm machine. Operations can be broadly divided into the fol-
lowing.
Switching modes
Setting numbers
e
e Using the function keys to select an operation
e
e
Entering characters
Switching modes
Using the function keys to select operations
Here’s how to switch between performance play mode,
single play mode, rhythm machine mode, and sequencer
mode.
Note:
e You cannot switch modes while using the compare
function when editing a voice or performance.
e If you press when already in single play
mode, or press [PERFORMANCE] when already
in performance play mode, the display will show
“** Sending PC No ---” as long as you continue
holding the switch. This allows you to send a
program change message as explained on page 103.
e To select performance play mode, press
[PERFORMANCE]. The performance last used in
performance play mode will be selected. Now you
can press [PRESET], [INT], or[(CARD], and use the
numeric keys or to select another per-
formance.
e To select single play mode, press [SINGLE]. The voice
last used while in single play mode will be selected.
Now you can press [PRESET], [INT], or [CARD],
and use the numeric keys or to select an-
other voice.
e To select rhythm machine mode, press
RHYTHM}. (You will enter rhythm pattern play
mode or rhythm song play mode.)
e To select sequencer mode, press [SEQ].
16 Introducing the V50
Use the function keys to select various items or functions
from the menu displayed while editing or playing each
mode. The following display gives an example using the
voice edit Sensitivity setting. ‘ew J
Cursor
If you want to modify the “K VS” setting (key velocity
sensitivity), press the function key at the far right.
B msy pe ) í yg ani aed)
Press this key
The cursor will move to “KVS”, and you will be able
to modify the KVS setting as we will explain in the next
section.
In some cases, pressing a function key located below
a“ > ~~” in the lower line will show an additional menu. S
The concept to remember is that each function key is
related to the lower line of the display.
Cursor moves here