Yamaha 61-Key MOTIF Music Production Synthesizer
No longer available at zZounds
Real-time external control surface. Large sampling capacity, wide compatibility.
Overview
Superb Sounding Voices -- and Tons of Them!
MOTIF was developed to be the best sounding synth on the market -- period. Its astounding 85MB wave ROM (when converted to 16-bit linear format) contains many of the best waveforms from Yamaha's highly acclaimed S80, 9000 Pro, and EX Series synthesizers. Plus there's a wealth of new and improved waves, including many of the drums from the brand new RS7000 Integrated Sampling Sequencer, to give you the most complete range of sounds ever available in one keyboard.
From incredibly realistic stereo acoustic instruments like pianos, drums, strings, and brass to never-before-heard dance sounds and lush ambient textures, the breadth of MOTIF's sonic palette is absolutely stunning. There's even a convenient General MIDI set for playing back Standard MIDI Files. And with room for up to 3 Modular Synthesis Plug-in System expansion boards and advanced integration capabilities (all the voices for the PLG boards are already stored in MOTIF's OS), MOTIF can expand as your needs grow.
Category Search Function
MOTIF features an improved Category Search function, giving you quick access to the sounds you want. Simply select a voice category, such as pianos or strings, and you'll be able to browse through all the related voices one by one. A new Favorites category has been added, into which you can store the voices you use most.
The Heart of MOTIF: The Integrated Sampling Sequencer
At the heart of MOTIF is its Integrated Sampling Sequencer, which… read more seamlessly combines the audio and MIDI recording processes, giving you unprecedented freedom for creating music. The sequencer component of this system features both linear and pattern recording methods, including a standard Song Mode for recording MIDI and audio data in linear fashion from beginning to end (the way analog tape machines worked). With a 200,000 MIDI note capacity and a maximum total sampling memory of 6 minutes and 20 seconds in stereo at 44.1kHz (with two 32MB SIMMs installed), MOTIF can easily handle this linear production approach, which is popular with more traditional kinds of music.
In this age of digital production, however, cutting and pasting different sections of music and audio (motifs) together is an integral part of the music making process. MOTIF has 4 unique features that simplify this process to expand your creativity like never before.
Pattern Mode
This mode lets you easily create the sections of your song (Verse, Chorus, Bridge, Breaks, etc.) as individual elements without having to decide on a final arrangement.
Integrated Sampling Sequencer
MOTIF has 2 distinct ways of recording audio phrases: Sample with Note and Slice with Sequence. Sample with Note is ideal if you simply want to add audio phrases to your song. In this mode, you can record vocal and guitar phrases directly into your sequence while listening to playback of any MIDI tracks you've already created. After recording the audio, the Integrated Sampling Sequencer will automatically create a sample voice, map it to the keyboard and put a MIDI note in the pattern at the appropriate time. If you would like to play the same audio phrase later in the song, you can simply trigger it with a MIDI note instead of having to sample it again and use up valuable sample RAM. When you make your final arrangement, your phrases will play back in perfect time.
Slice with Sequence takes the Integrated Sampling Sequencer concept even further. In this case, when you record audio phrases, MOTIF will analyze the recorded audio, slice it into pieces (based on amplitude peaks and divisions of the beat) and then generate an extremely accurate MIDI sequence to perfectly re-trigger each of the pieces. This is the key to MOTIF's seamless integration of audio and MIDI. Once this process has completed, you can change the tempo of your sequence without changing the pitch of the recorded audio, or use grids to change the clock, gate and velocity values of notes within a sampled drum loop, for example. Simply put, you have all the flexibility of MIDI with the accuracy and realism of audio.
Real-time Pattern Chain Record
Once you've recorded all your MIDI and audio parts, the fun really begins. You can arrange your song in real-time using MOTIF's Section, Mute, and Song Scene buttons to instantly hear the different possibilities. Even better, you can record these performances as Pattern Chains and then edit them with detailed event editing or convert them to linear song formats like SMF. If you've ever used a groove-oriented box such as the RM1x, you know how this hands-on approach to song creation and remixing can inspire new ideas.
Large Sampling Capacity, Wide Compatibility
MOTIF comes standard with 4MB of sampling memory and can be increased up to 64MB using affordable PC SIMMs for a maximum total sampling time of 6 minutes and 20 seconds (stereo, 44.1kHz). In addition to the Integrated Sampling Sequence functions, you can also import samples in AIFF and WAVE format. There are also comprehensive import functions for Akai S1000/S3000 and Yamaha A3000/A4000/A5000 samplers, including the ability to read sample maps and voice parameters. This instantly expands the sound library for MOTIF to hundreds of commercially available sample CD-ROMs.
Extensive Real-time Control
MOTIF sports four physical sliders and four physical knobs on its front panel, which work as 16 virtual knobs and 16 virtual sliders when used with the keyboard's expanded real-time control functions. In any mode, you can readily edit the Reverb, Chorus, Pan, Cutoff, Resonance, Attack, Release, and EQ as well as 4 user-assignable parameters. In Mix mode, these sliders and knobs work in conjunction with the Track Select buttons to give you all the capabilities of a 16 channel digital mixer. All this gives you total control over the keyboard's internal sound, but MOTIF takes it one step further with its....
Real-time External Control Surface
For those who use popular software-based sequencers, MOTIF is a dream come true. By placing the unit in Remote Control mode, you'll be able to control your favorite sequencing software, including Logic Audio, Cubase VST, Pro Tools, and Cakewalk, right from MOTIF. Mute your tracks, control the sequencer transport, mix both MIDI and audio tracks with the keyboard's knobs and sliders -- all without ever picking up a mouse!
Interactive Arpeggiator
MOTIF's newly designed arpeggiator lets you add even more expression to your playing. On top of an extensive range of rhythmic sequences, it also features "human" patterns such as the strumming of a guitar or the trilling of a flute. Instead of trying to duplicate these performances with complicated algorithms, MOTIF creates them by using real MIDI data recorded by real musicians. There's even a velocity window, which opens up unprecedented possibilities; for example, while playing a lead guitar voice, you could trigger a sampled MIDI guitar phrase on the fly by hitting a key hard. And because the arpeggiator is integrated into MOTIF's system, you can easily include arpeggio performances into your sequences and even import new arpeggios from Standard MIDI files.
Unprecedented Expandability
Modular Synthesis Plug-in System Slots x 3 Unlike conventional synthesizer expansion systems, Yamaha's Modular Synthesis Plug-in System lets you upgrade MOTIF with completely new synthesizer or sound processing "engines." Each expansion board is equipped with a full-fledged synthesizer or digital effects processor, so not only do you get more sounds and effects, but also more polyphony and additional multi parts - without taking any processing power away from the keyboard itself. A diverse range of synthesizer expansion boards is already available, including analog physical modeling, FM synthesis, vocal harmony processing, and more. MOTIF is equipped with 3 expansion slots, allowing you to customize it with the exact combination of synthesis you need - whenever you need it! The plug-in voice data of every PLG Series expansion board is already stored in the keyboard's ROM, so you'll have a great selection of additional sounds the moment you install any new plug-in board.
Built-in USB MIDI Interface
MOTIF is ready to connect to your iMac, G4, or newer G3 Macintosh computer as well as any USB-equipped Windows� PC (Windows� 98 or later).
SmartMedia Card Slot
Easily store your samples on a SmartMedia Card Slot card and transfer them to your personal computer for editing. This storage method also makes it easy to save and load Standard MIDI Files.
SCSI Port
Connect an external ZIP, MO, or hard drive to MOTIF for easy storage of large amounts of sample data. Its newly designed SCSI interface provides the fast loading times expected by professional musicians.
Connect to the Future of MIDI and Audio -- mLAN
Yamaha's mLAN is the future of MIDI and audio interfacing, making it possible to link together all your digital audio and MIDI data through a single high-bandwidth cable. MOTIF is ready for both the present generation of mLan expansions and future mLan products, so you'll be able to stay current with future possibilities.
Multi-Out Expansion Board
As an alternative to the mLAN board, the AIEB1 expansion board is also available, which gives you 6 assignable analog audio outputs as well as both optical and S/PDIF digital outputs. read less
MOTIF was developed to be the best sounding synth on the market -- period. Its astounding 85MB wave ROM (when converted to 16-bit linear format) contains many of the best waveforms from Yamaha's highly acclaimed S80, 9000 Pro, and EX Series synthesizers. Plus there's a wealth of new and improved waves, including many of the drums from the brand new RS7000 Integrated Sampling Sequencer, to give you the most complete range of sounds ever available in one keyboard.
From incredibly realistic stereo acoustic instruments like pianos, drums, strings, and brass to never-before-heard dance sounds and lush ambient textures, the breadth of MOTIF's sonic palette is absolutely stunning. There's even a convenient General MIDI set for playing back Standard MIDI Files. And with room for up to 3 Modular Synthesis Plug-in System expansion boards and advanced integration capabilities (all the voices for the PLG boards are already stored in MOTIF's OS), MOTIF can expand as your needs grow.
Category Search Function
MOTIF features an improved Category Search function, giving you quick access to the sounds you want. Simply select a voice category, such as pianos or strings, and you'll be able to browse through all the related voices one by one. A new Favorites category has been added, into which you can store the voices you use most.
The Heart of MOTIF: The Integrated Sampling Sequencer
At the heart of MOTIF is its Integrated Sampling Sequencer, which… read more seamlessly combines the audio and MIDI recording processes, giving you unprecedented freedom for creating music. The sequencer component of this system features both linear and pattern recording methods, including a standard Song Mode for recording MIDI and audio data in linear fashion from beginning to end (the way analog tape machines worked). With a 200,000 MIDI note capacity and a maximum total sampling memory of 6 minutes and 20 seconds in stereo at 44.1kHz (with two 32MB SIMMs installed), MOTIF can easily handle this linear production approach, which is popular with more traditional kinds of music.
In this age of digital production, however, cutting and pasting different sections of music and audio (motifs) together is an integral part of the music making process. MOTIF has 4 unique features that simplify this process to expand your creativity like never before.
Pattern Mode
This mode lets you easily create the sections of your song (Verse, Chorus, Bridge, Breaks, etc.) as individual elements without having to decide on a final arrangement.
Integrated Sampling Sequencer
MOTIF has 2 distinct ways of recording audio phrases: Sample with Note and Slice with Sequence. Sample with Note is ideal if you simply want to add audio phrases to your song. In this mode, you can record vocal and guitar phrases directly into your sequence while listening to playback of any MIDI tracks you've already created. After recording the audio, the Integrated Sampling Sequencer will automatically create a sample voice, map it to the keyboard and put a MIDI note in the pattern at the appropriate time. If you would like to play the same audio phrase later in the song, you can simply trigger it with a MIDI note instead of having to sample it again and use up valuable sample RAM. When you make your final arrangement, your phrases will play back in perfect time.
Slice with Sequence takes the Integrated Sampling Sequencer concept even further. In this case, when you record audio phrases, MOTIF will analyze the recorded audio, slice it into pieces (based on amplitude peaks and divisions of the beat) and then generate an extremely accurate MIDI sequence to perfectly re-trigger each of the pieces. This is the key to MOTIF's seamless integration of audio and MIDI. Once this process has completed, you can change the tempo of your sequence without changing the pitch of the recorded audio, or use grids to change the clock, gate and velocity values of notes within a sampled drum loop, for example. Simply put, you have all the flexibility of MIDI with the accuracy and realism of audio.
Real-time Pattern Chain Record
Once you've recorded all your MIDI and audio parts, the fun really begins. You can arrange your song in real-time using MOTIF's Section, Mute, and Song Scene buttons to instantly hear the different possibilities. Even better, you can record these performances as Pattern Chains and then edit them with detailed event editing or convert them to linear song formats like SMF. If you've ever used a groove-oriented box such as the RM1x, you know how this hands-on approach to song creation and remixing can inspire new ideas.
Large Sampling Capacity, Wide Compatibility
MOTIF comes standard with 4MB of sampling memory and can be increased up to 64MB using affordable PC SIMMs for a maximum total sampling time of 6 minutes and 20 seconds (stereo, 44.1kHz). In addition to the Integrated Sampling Sequence functions, you can also import samples in AIFF and WAVE format. There are also comprehensive import functions for Akai S1000/S3000 and Yamaha A3000/A4000/A5000 samplers, including the ability to read sample maps and voice parameters. This instantly expands the sound library for MOTIF to hundreds of commercially available sample CD-ROMs.
Extensive Real-time Control
MOTIF sports four physical sliders and four physical knobs on its front panel, which work as 16 virtual knobs and 16 virtual sliders when used with the keyboard's expanded real-time control functions. In any mode, you can readily edit the Reverb, Chorus, Pan, Cutoff, Resonance, Attack, Release, and EQ as well as 4 user-assignable parameters. In Mix mode, these sliders and knobs work in conjunction with the Track Select buttons to give you all the capabilities of a 16 channel digital mixer. All this gives you total control over the keyboard's internal sound, but MOTIF takes it one step further with its....
Real-time External Control Surface
For those who use popular software-based sequencers, MOTIF is a dream come true. By placing the unit in Remote Control mode, you'll be able to control your favorite sequencing software, including Logic Audio, Cubase VST, Pro Tools, and Cakewalk, right from MOTIF. Mute your tracks, control the sequencer transport, mix both MIDI and audio tracks with the keyboard's knobs and sliders -- all without ever picking up a mouse!
Interactive Arpeggiator
MOTIF's newly designed arpeggiator lets you add even more expression to your playing. On top of an extensive range of rhythmic sequences, it also features "human" patterns such as the strumming of a guitar or the trilling of a flute. Instead of trying to duplicate these performances with complicated algorithms, MOTIF creates them by using real MIDI data recorded by real musicians. There's even a velocity window, which opens up unprecedented possibilities; for example, while playing a lead guitar voice, you could trigger a sampled MIDI guitar phrase on the fly by hitting a key hard. And because the arpeggiator is integrated into MOTIF's system, you can easily include arpeggio performances into your sequences and even import new arpeggios from Standard MIDI files.
Unprecedented Expandability
Modular Synthesis Plug-in System Slots x 3 Unlike conventional synthesizer expansion systems, Yamaha's Modular Synthesis Plug-in System lets you upgrade MOTIF with completely new synthesizer or sound processing "engines." Each expansion board is equipped with a full-fledged synthesizer or digital effects processor, so not only do you get more sounds and effects, but also more polyphony and additional multi parts - without taking any processing power away from the keyboard itself. A diverse range of synthesizer expansion boards is already available, including analog physical modeling, FM synthesis, vocal harmony processing, and more. MOTIF is equipped with 3 expansion slots, allowing you to customize it with the exact combination of synthesis you need - whenever you need it! The plug-in voice data of every PLG Series expansion board is already stored in the keyboard's ROM, so you'll have a great selection of additional sounds the moment you install any new plug-in board.
Built-in USB MIDI Interface
MOTIF is ready to connect to your iMac, G4, or newer G3 Macintosh computer as well as any USB-equipped Windows� PC (Windows� 98 or later).
SmartMedia Card Slot
Easily store your samples on a SmartMedia Card Slot card and transfer them to your personal computer for editing. This storage method also makes it easy to save and load Standard MIDI Files.
SCSI Port
Connect an external ZIP, MO, or hard drive to MOTIF for easy storage of large amounts of sample data. Its newly designed SCSI interface provides the fast loading times expected by professional musicians.
Connect to the Future of MIDI and Audio -- mLAN
Yamaha's mLAN is the future of MIDI and audio interfacing, making it possible to link together all your digital audio and MIDI data through a single high-bandwidth cable. MOTIF is ready for both the present generation of mLan expansions and future mLan products, so you'll be able to stay current with future possibilities.
Multi-Out Expansion Board
As an alternative to the mLAN board, the AIEB1 expansion board is also available, which gives you 6 assignable analog audio outputs as well as both optical and S/PDIF digital outputs. read less
Specs
61 Keys, Initial Touch/After Touch
Tone Generator: AWM2
Multitimbres: 16 + 1(A/D) + 18 (Max. with Plug-in boards installed)
Polyphony: 62 Notes
Effects: Reverb, Chorus, Insertion 1, Insertion, Variation, Plug-in Insertion, Master Equalizer 25 (for Performance/Song)
5 Band
Voices Preset Bank Normal: 384, Drum kits: 48
GM Bank Normal: 128, Drum kit: 1
User Bank Normal: 128 , Drum kits: 16
Plug-in Preset Bank: 64 (for AN, PF, DX), 192 (for VL)
Plug-in User Bank: 64 (for each Plug-in Slot)
Performances User Bank: 128 (4 Part)
Master User Bank: 128
4 Zones, Assignable Slider/Knob Settings, PC Table
Arpeggiator Preset 1: 128, Preset 2: 128, User: 128
(MIDI Sync, MIDI TX/RX, Velocity Limit, Note Limit)
Sampler Memory: 4 MB expandable to 64 MB (SIMM slot x 2) Analog Sampling: Frequency: 44.1 kHz (max.), 16 bit Linear, Stereo Digital Sampling: Frequency: 44.1 kHz max. (only when AIEB1 I/O board is installed), 16-bit Linear, Stereo Max. 128 keybank per waveform (Total keybanks = 8192, Waveforms = 256) Multi Sample Import
Sequencer 200,000 notes, Resolution: 480 Clocks per Quarter Note
Song: 64 songs, 16 tracks (each track can be used as a loop track), 5 Scenes
Song Chain Play: 100 steps
1 Multi per Song
16 Multi Template
Pattern: 16 tracks, 64 styles,16 sections, 256 phrases/1 Style, 128 Preset Phrases
Pattern Chain with real-time record
Pre Quantized Rec, Grid Groove
Remote External Seq. Cubase VST, Logic Audio, Pro Tools, Cakewalk
Expandability 3 Slots for Modular Synthesis Plug-in Boards
1 Slot for mLAN8E or AIEB1
2 Slots for 72-pin SIMM
EXTERNAL MEMORY Card: SmartMedia
SCSI: ZIP (Option), SCSI HD (Option), CD-ROM (Option)
CONTROLLERS Pitch Bend Wheel: 1
Modulation Wheel: 1
Master Volume Slider: 1
Assignable Control Slider: 4
Assignable Knob: 4
A/D Input Gain: 1
Rotary Encoder: 1
CONNECTORS OUTPUT: L/MONO, R (1/4 in. Jack)
ASSIGNABLE OUTPUT: L, R (1/4 in. Jack)
FOOT CONTROLLER: 2
SUSTAIN SWITCH: 1
FOOT SWITCH: 1
MIDI: IN/OUT/THRU
A/D INPUT: L, R (MIC / LINE, Stereo 1/4 in. Jack)
BREATH CONTROLLER: 1
PHONES: 1 (Stereo 1/4 in. Jack)
SCSI: 1
USB: 1 (MIDI 3 port)
DIGITAL OUT: Optical (TOS-Link)
Dimensions (H x W x D): 5-1/4 x 41-1/4 x 15-5/8 in.
Weight: 34 lbs.
Tone Generator: AWM2
Multitimbres: 16 + 1(A/D) + 18 (Max. with Plug-in boards installed)
Polyphony: 62 Notes
Effects: Reverb, Chorus, Insertion 1, Insertion, Variation, Plug-in Insertion, Master Equalizer 25 (for Performance/Song)
5 Band
Voices Preset Bank Normal: 384, Drum kits: 48
GM Bank Normal: 128, Drum kit: 1
User Bank Normal: 128 , Drum kits: 16
Plug-in Preset Bank: 64 (for AN, PF, DX), 192 (for VL)
Plug-in User Bank: 64 (for each Plug-in Slot)
Performances User Bank: 128 (4 Part)
Master User Bank: 128
4 Zones, Assignable Slider/Knob Settings, PC Table
Arpeggiator Preset 1: 128, Preset 2: 128, User: 128
(MIDI Sync, MIDI TX/RX, Velocity Limit, Note Limit)
Sampler Memory: 4 MB expandable to 64 MB (SIMM slot x 2) Analog Sampling: Frequency: 44.1 kHz (max.), 16 bit Linear, Stereo Digital Sampling: Frequency: 44.1 kHz max. (only when AIEB1 I/O board is installed), 16-bit Linear, Stereo Max. 128 keybank per waveform (Total keybanks = 8192, Waveforms = 256) Multi Sample Import
Sequencer 200,000 notes, Resolution: 480 Clocks per Quarter Note
Song: 64 songs, 16 tracks (each track can be used as a loop track), 5 Scenes
Song Chain Play: 100 steps
1 Multi per Song
16 Multi Template
Pattern: 16 tracks, 64 styles,16 sections, 256 phrases/1 Style, 128 Preset Phrases
Pattern Chain with real-time record
Pre Quantized Rec, Grid Groove
Remote External Seq. Cubase VST, Logic Audio, Pro Tools, Cakewalk
Expandability 3 Slots for Modular Synthesis Plug-in Boards
1 Slot for mLAN8E or AIEB1
2 Slots for 72-pin SIMM
EXTERNAL MEMORY Card: SmartMedia
SCSI: ZIP (Option), SCSI HD (Option), CD-ROM (Option)
CONTROLLERS Pitch Bend Wheel: 1
Modulation Wheel: 1
Master Volume Slider: 1
Assignable Control Slider: 4
Assignable Knob: 4
A/D Input Gain: 1
Rotary Encoder: 1
CONNECTORS OUTPUT: L/MONO, R (1/4 in. Jack)
ASSIGNABLE OUTPUT: L, R (1/4 in. Jack)
FOOT CONTROLLER: 2
SUSTAIN SWITCH: 1
FOOT SWITCH: 1
MIDI: IN/OUT/THRU
A/D INPUT: L, R (MIC / LINE, Stereo 1/4 in. Jack)
BREATH CONTROLLER: 1
PHONES: 1 (Stereo 1/4 in. Jack)
SCSI: 1
USB: 1 (MIDI 3 port)
DIGITAL OUT: Optical (TOS-Link)
Dimensions (H x W x D): 5-1/4 x 41-1/4 x 15-5/8 in.
Weight: 34 lbs.
Documents and Manuals
For support or warranty questions, please contact the manufacturer:
Phone: 714-522-9011
Web: https://usa.yamaha.com/support
Phone: 714-522-9011
Web: https://usa.yamaha.com/support
Reviews
Reviewers gave this product an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars.
(277 ratings)
Submitted October 7, 2003 by a customer from netscape.net
"A Sexy Piece of Music Machinery!"
This review has been selected by our experts as particularly helpful.
Overall, this is the best board I've ever had. I used to play the PSR 530 and wanted to get away from the "Yamaha Sound", but after seeing the capabilities of the MOTIF, I was able to get a great board at a reasonable price and create my own sounds.
Sound
The instruments sound great (especially the piano) and whatever you don't like you can tweak. The arpeggios are okay, I like them better on the ES version.
Features
Easy to turn knobs, accessible buttons and sliders. It would have been nice to have a ribbon (like the "ES" version), but it's cool. The ES version is a little to "kiddy" looking, less professional. Oh, make sure you run out and buy a sustain pedal.
Quality
To me, this is a very professional (and heavy!) board. Lugging it back and forth to gigs can be a bit burdensome but for the "cool factor" and looks you get when you whip it out, it's worth it. It's in a very sturdy shell and the keys don't feel fragile. I suggest a hard shell case for gigging, although I currently use a soft bag and carry it with care.
Value
You get a good bang for your buck. You get a 16 track sequencer, sampler, synth, drum machine, etc. all rolled up in one. The only difference between this and the KORG TRITON is the touch screen and ribbon. And with the ES version out now, the regular MOTIFs are hundreds less.
Manufacturer Support… read more
Oh the trouble I've seen...here's an example of their tech support. You have a problem = "how do I layer sounds?", because basic stuff like that is not in the book (duh!) So you call YAMAHA, mind you, it's not an 800 number so your call is long distance (unless you live in Cali I suggest using a calling card). You speak to someone who notates your problem and tells you someone will call you back within the hour. What? You're working on the song NOW and may lose your fresh idea in your head within an hour. Anyway, someone may or may not call back within an hour but fortunately when they do they get you on your way. The techs are very knowledgable but not easily accessible. And the manual? Forget about it. If you have any questions go to www.motifator.com
The Wow Factor
When I saw the different arpeggios and sampling ability, I was ready to kill for it. Every keyboardist I know either wants on or has one. Before you by one, have someone who owns it or knows it to demonstrate it for you. Don't let some sales kid show you the factory demo, have someone who has done some work on it show you the real deal. It is a sexy piece of machinery.
Musical Style:
Gospel, Hip Hop read less
Sound
The instruments sound great (especially the piano) and whatever you don't like you can tweak. The arpeggios are okay, I like them better on the ES version.
Features
Easy to turn knobs, accessible buttons and sliders. It would have been nice to have a ribbon (like the "ES" version), but it's cool. The ES version is a little to "kiddy" looking, less professional. Oh, make sure you run out and buy a sustain pedal.
Quality
To me, this is a very professional (and heavy!) board. Lugging it back and forth to gigs can be a bit burdensome but for the "cool factor" and looks you get when you whip it out, it's worth it. It's in a very sturdy shell and the keys don't feel fragile. I suggest a hard shell case for gigging, although I currently use a soft bag and carry it with care.
Value
You get a good bang for your buck. You get a 16 track sequencer, sampler, synth, drum machine, etc. all rolled up in one. The only difference between this and the KORG TRITON is the touch screen and ribbon. And with the ES version out now, the regular MOTIFs are hundreds less.
Manufacturer Support… read more
Oh the trouble I've seen...here's an example of their tech support. You have a problem = "how do I layer sounds?", because basic stuff like that is not in the book (duh!) So you call YAMAHA, mind you, it's not an 800 number so your call is long distance (unless you live in Cali I suggest using a calling card). You speak to someone who notates your problem and tells you someone will call you back within the hour. What? You're working on the song NOW and may lose your fresh idea in your head within an hour. Anyway, someone may or may not call back within an hour but fortunately when they do they get you on your way. The techs are very knowledgable but not easily accessible. And the manual? Forget about it. If you have any questions go to www.motifator.com
The Wow Factor
When I saw the different arpeggios and sampling ability, I was ready to kill for it. Every keyboardist I know either wants on or has one. Before you by one, have someone who owns it or knows it to demonstrate it for you. Don't let some sales kid show you the factory demo, have someone who has done some work on it show you the real deal. It is a sexy piece of machinery.
Musical Style:
Gospel, Hip Hop read less
4 of 4 people (100%) people found this review helpful. Did you?
Thanks for your opinion!
No longer available at zZounds
In most cases, a product is unavailable because it has been discontinued by the manufacturer
This is a carousel with product cards. Use the previous and next buttons to navigate.
People who bought this item also bought
Neumann U 87 Ai Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone with Shock Mount, Case and Cable
$3,750.00
- Interest-Free Payment Plans
Arturia AudioFuse Studio USB Audio Interface
$999.00
- 12 x$83.25
- 8 x$124.88
- No Credit Check6 x$166.50
- No Credit Check4 x$249.75
Rupert Neve Designs Newton Channel Microphone Preamp/EQ/Compressor
$1,999.00
- 18 x
- 12 x$166.58
- 8 x$249.88
Gator GTSA-KEY61 TSA ATA Molded 61-Key Keyboard with Wheels
$399.99
- 8 x$50.00
- No Credit Check6 x$66.66
- No Credit Check4 x$100.00
