| The unit is much smaller
than it appears to be from the photo above and measures a mere 135x200x63.5mm
(5.3"x7.9"x2.5"). It only had a stereo output with
no individual outputs for the different manuals - whilst this might
seem like a major omission in our circles, I doubt that any users
in the intended market gave it a second thought.
Despite having two (presumably) standard MIDI inputs,
there was a warning on the serial number sticker that stated: "CAUTION:
FOR USE ONLY WITH ELECTONE ORGAN" !! Quite what the penalties
were for disobeying this, no-one knows but it can, of course, be
used with any MIDI keyboard!
The upper and lower manuals offered 8-voice polyphony
each whilst the pedal sound was monophonic (in keeping with the
organ tradition).
Release dates for the module are unknown but inside,
the ROM is labelled "1989" which should give us a clue!
The synthesis method is described as "Wave Memory and Frequency
Modulation". Whatever... the sounds are pretty good. They won't
compete with 'the real thing' of course (or even any of the new
modelled B3 software emulations) but it does appear to be able to
create some competent organ sounds which you might find useful especially
with the appropriate treatment.
Given Yamaha's tendency to re-cycle their technology
in different markets, it is surprising that they didn't promote
this in a more 'rock n roll' environment as it could have been quite
successful, especially if it had been re-packaged with 'real' drawbars.
But they didn't and, as such, it remains a rare and obscure little
module.
As always, I am indebted to the undisputed king of rare
and obscure modules, Louis Van Dompselaar, for this rare donation. |
