PSR Tutorial Forum

Yamaha Keyboards (4 Boards) => Yamaha Keyboards - General => Topic started by: pjd on July 13, 2021, 05:47:16 PM

Title: PSS-A50 review
Post by: pjd on July 13, 2021, 05:47:16 PM

Hi --

I picked up a new toy which I hope to mod: the Yamaha PSS-A50 mini keyboard. I posted a review at:

http://sandsoftwaresound.net/review-yamaha-pss-a50/

The PSS-A50 is a 37 mini key battery powered instrument. It has a record function which lets you layer arpeggios and live parts. Just $100USD.

The review has a link to an MP3 which demonstrates the PSS-A50 as a MIDI module (not fully GM compatible).

Have fun -- pj

Title: Re: PSS-A50 review
Post by: Joe H on July 14, 2021, 03:36:37 PM

Yamaha is good at recycling their old technology to squeeze every last dollar they can from it.

 ;)

Joe H

Title: Re: PSS-A50 review
Post by: pjd on July 21, 2021, 06:39:17 PM

Hi Joe --

Yeah, that's one way to be a "green" company.  :)

BTW, I posted two notes on the A50 MIDI implementation:

http://sandsoftwaresound.net/yamaha-pss-a50-midi-notes/
http://sandsoftwaresound.net/yamaha-pss-a50-midi-limitations/

I also took a look at the PSS-A50 Motion Effects:

http://sandsoftwaresound.net/yamaha-pss-a50-motion-effects/

The Motion Effects are recycled control arps from the Motif, etc. I posted a MIDI file with sample controller data.

Hope you're doing well -- pj

Title: Re: PSS-A50 review
Post by: Joe H on July 22, 2021, 03:38:11 PM

Quote from: pjd on July 21, 2021, 06:39:17 PM

The Motion Effects are recycled control arps from the Motif, etc. I posted a MIDI file with sample controller data.

Hope you're doing well -- pj

I'm doing well, thanks for asking.  My arranger/Motif-synth integration document is on hold.  My business is booming so I have little time for my keyboard at the moment. 

The arps in the Analog card installed in my MU128 allows real-time CCs to be programmed (via the AN editor) with each arp note. Using the Piano Roll in StyleMagic, I can add the controller messages manually like Expression, Filter, Resonance, Pan, etc; which can make the arp(s) dynamic in its playback.

Joe H

Title: Re: PSS-A50 review
Post by: pjd on July 27, 2021, 11:10:08 PM

I opened up the PSS-A50 and posted pictures:

http://sandsoftwaresound.net/yamaha-pss-a50-look-inside/

The PSS-A50, PSS-E30 and PSS-F30 have the same main and front panel circuit boards. One the reasons why they are so inexpensive.

All the best -- pj