Yamaha Launches RY9 Rhythm Programmer
 July 23, 1999Yamaha Corporation of America, Pro Audio & Combo Division, Digital
Musical Instruments, introduces the newest addition to its innovative
RY line of drum machines, the RY9 Rhythm Programmer. Featuring more than
400 preset patterns and backing tracks, in addition to user memory, the
RY9 is the perfect "portable band" to accompany guitarists in
a wide variety of different musical styles. Additional features-including
a built-in metronome, tuner and an analog input for controlling the RY9's
internal voices from a guitar-make this drum machine an extremely flexible
and highly portable musical tool that occupies about as much space as
a VHS-format videocassette. The RY9 is scheduled to ship in August 1999.
"This product satisfies a tremendous variety of musical needs for
contemporary guitarists," notes Athan Billias, marketing manager,
Digital Musical Instruments. "From its 128 high-quality drum sounds
to its advanced accompaniment capabilities, the RY9 delivers a powerful
collection of tools in a highly portable package."
Yamaha has provided the RY9 with a 1/4-in. analog input, allowing for
a guitar to be easily connected to the unit. Three different modes make
the most of this powerful capability.
Tuner Mode allows the RY9 to perform the functions of a full-featured
guitar tuner. Users simply play any open string and the sounding note's
exact pitch is immediately displayed on the RY9's easy-to-read LCD. This
makes it a simple matter to determine if any particular string is sharp
or flat and, if so, how much adjustment is needed for correction. The
RY9's 1/4-in. analog output allows the guitar's signal to be passed through
the unit during tuning in addition to when the RY9 is providing accompaniment.
The analog input also allows users to easily mix the sound of the guitar
with accompaniment parts generated by the RY9. A unique feature, ideal
for live performance, allows users to trigger playback of the currently
selected song or pattern by playing a note on the guitar.
Guitar Synthesizer Mode allows users to control any of the RY9's 50
voices-including strings, piano, brass and bass-from a guitar. This powerful
feature provides extensive sound-creation possibilities allowing users
to mix the guitar's original signal with the synthesizer voice generated
by the RY9. Single Mode allows for a single note to be triggered while
Harm Mode adds an additional voice in harmony.
Yamaha has also provided the RY9 with the ability to run on batteries,
allowing it to be used in a wide variety of different situations, including
practice and performances while traveling. A headphone output is also
included, allowing users to practice without disturbing others. For more information,
visit Yamaha at www.yamaha.com. | 
