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Classic Corner

MU50
(Updated 18/05/2000)


Overview
Main Features
Other Important Specifications
Quick Tips
Goodies to Download
FAQ

MU50

Overview

Compact desktop XG module that really started the XG ball rolling. Featuring a staggering multi effects processor that set the world alight coupled with hundreds of fully programmable sounds, in an easy to use user interface made this a ground breaking unit in more ways than one.

Main Features

  • 737 fully programmable normal voices and 22 fully programmable drum kits; 16 parts with up to 32-note polyphony.
  • Large backlit LCD, ideal for live use.
  • Since the XG format is upwardly compatible with GM, GM data can be reproduced accurately with no need for editing.
  • "DOC" mode allows the MU50 to play hundreds of available Yamaha Disk Orchestra Collection titles, making it an ideal expansion module for Clavinova keyboards.
  • TG300B mode provides compatibility with most available MIDI music data.
  • "Performance Mode" allows voices to be combined in up to 4 layers, giving enormous depth to the sounds.

Other Important Specifications

  • Sound Module Modes : XG (Extended General MIDI), TG300B, C/M, DOC, and Performance.
  • Multi-timbral Capacity : 16-Part (on 16 MIDI channels; with element reserve priority for later notes and dynamic Voice allocation).
  • Jacks and Terminals :
    • Front panel : INPUT jack (stereo 1/4), PHONES jack (stereo mini-pin).
    • Rear panel : OUTPUT R, L/MONO jacks (Right, Left/Mono); DC IN jack; TO HOST terminal; HOST SELECT switch;MIDI IN , MIDI OUT, and MIDI THRU terminals.

Quick Tips

  1. Don't try and apply effects to anything via the analogue input, unlike the MU80, the MU50 cannot process external analogue signals through its effects bus.

  2. Double clicking on the enter key will display the current sysex for each parameter, helpful when composing an XG MIDI file in your sequencer.

  3. Very good EQ can be applied via the variation effects bus, this can add some real punch to your sound. To apply EQ to every channel, you will need to put the effects mode into system, and not insertion mode, and set the variation send level for each channel depending on the amount of EQ you need.

  4. Free serial drivers are available from the Yamaha XG Downloads Page for use with Windows 3.1/95/98/2000/NT, so no need for a MIDI interface - just connect your MU50 to the serial port on your PC or Mac via the optional CCPC or CCMAC cable (available from all good Yamaha Music Dealers) and away you go!

  5. For more tips and solutions go to the MU50 FAQ page...

Goodies to Download


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