Yamaha MODX7, MODX8, MODX6 User Manual

MUSIC SYNTHESIZER

Reference Manual

Contents
Using the MODX Manuals	..........................................2
Basic Structure	3
Functional Blocks ......................................................	3
Tone Generator Block................................................	4
Tone Generator block ......................................................	4
A/D Input Block ........................................................	10
Sequencer Block ......................................................	10
Arpeggio Block.........................................................	11
Arpeggio categories.......................................................	11
Sub categories...............................................................	11
Arpeggio Type Name.....................................................	12
Arpeggio-related settings...............................................	13
Arpeggio playback types................................................	14
Creating an Arpeggio.....................................................	16
Motion Sequencer Block .........................................	17
Effect Block ..............................................................	19
Effect structure...............................................................	19
Effect connection ...........................................................	20
About the Vocoder Effect...............................................	20
Envelope Follower Block.........................................	21
Controller Block .......................................................	22
Keyboard .......................................................................	22
Pitch Bend wheel ...........................................................	22
Modulation wheel...........................................................	22
Assignable Switches......................................................	22
Knobs and Control Sliders .............................................	22
Super Knob....................................................................	22
Internal Memory .......................................................	23

Reference	25
Display (touch panel) configuration......................	25
Performance Play (Home).......................................	27
Motion Control.........................................................	33
Mixing.......................................................................	50
Scene........................................................................	55
Play/Rec ...................................................................	60
Normal Part (AWM2) Edit........................................	66
Element Common Edit (Common) .................................	66
Element Edit (Element) ................................................	107
Element All (All Element) .............................................	130
Drum Part Edit .......................................................	133
Key Common Edit (Common) ......................................	133
Key Edit (Key) ..............................................................	140
Normal Part (FM-X) Edit........................................	145
Operator Common Edit (Common) ..............................	145
Operator Edit (Operator) ..............................................	155
Common/Audio Edit (Common/Audio)................	159
Category Search....................................................	176
Performance Category Search.....................................	176
Arpeggio Category Search (Arp Category Search)......	180
Waveform Category Search (Waveform Search).........	182
Rhythm Pattern ............................................................	184
Utility ......................................................................	187
Live Set...................................................................	212
Live Set ........................................................................	212
Live Set Edit (Edit) .......................................................	213
Live Set Register (Register) .........................................	216
Connecting an iPhone or iPad .............................	217

EN

Using the MODX Manuals

Your MODX6/MODX7/MODX8 synthesizer comes with four different reference guides—the Owner’s Manual, the Reference Manual (this document), the Synthesizer Parameter Manual, and the Data List. While the Owner’s Manual is packaged together with the synthesizer as a hardcopy booklet, this Reference Manual, the Synthesizer Parameter Manual, and the Data List are available for download from our web page as PDF documents.

Owner’s Manual (hardcopy booklet)

Describes how to set up your MODX6/MODX7/MODX8 and how to perform basic operations.

•This manual explains the following operations.

•Selecting Performances

•Playing the Keyboard

•Creating Your Own Live Sets

•Editing the Settings

•Recording and Playback

•Using as a Master Keyboard

•Connecting a Microphone or Audio Equipment

•Making Global System Settings

•Connecting External MIDI Instruments

•Using a Connected Computer

•Saving/Loading Data

Reference Manual (this PDF document)

Describes the internal design of your MODX6/MODX7/MODX8 and the various parameters that can be adjusted and set.

Synthesizer Parameter Manual (PDF document)

Explains the Part parameters, effect types, effect parameters, and MIDI messages that are used for synthesizers incorporating the Yamaha AWM2 and FM-X tone generators. Read the Owner’s Manual and Reference Manual first and then use this parameter manual, if necessary, to learn more about parameters and terms that relate to Yamaha synthesizers.

Data List (PDF document)

Provides lists such as the Waveform List, Performance List, Effect Type List, Arpeggio Type List, as well as reference materials such as the MIDI Implementation Chart.

Using the Reference Manual

•Using the display name tabs along the upper part of each page from the Reference section, you can jump to the page for parameter explanations of the corresponding display.

•You can click on any page number from the Table of Contents or within descriptive text to jump to the corresponding page.

•You can also click on desired items and topics you want to refer to in the “Bookmarks” index to the left of the main window, and jump to the corresponding page. (Click the “Bookmarks” tab to open the index if it is not displayed.)

•If you want to find information on a specific topic, function or feature, select “Find” or “Search” from the Adobe Reader “Edit” menu and enter a key word to locate the related information anywhere in the document.

NOTE The most-recent version of Adobe® Reader® can be downloaded from the following web page.

http://www.adobe.com/products/reader/

NOTE The names and positions of menu items may vary according to the version of Adobe Reader being used.

Select the display name tab

Select the function

Reference

Performance

Edit

Search

Utility

Live Set

Normal Part (AWM2)

Drum Part

Normal Part (FM-X)

Common/Audio

Normal Part (AWM2) Edit

A Normal Part (AWM2) (having pitched musical instrument sounds) can consist of up to eight Elements. An Element is the basic, smallest unit for a Part. There are two types of Normal Part (AWM2) Edit displays: Element Common Edit display, for editing settings common to all eight Elements; and Element Edit display, for editing individual Elements.

Element Common Edit (Common)

Part Settings

General

From the General display you can set various parameters such as Part Name, Volume, and Pan.

Operation

[PERFORMANCE (HOME)] Æ [EDIT] Æ Part selection Æ Element [Common] Æ [Part Settings] Æ [General]

Part Category Main (Part Main Category)

Part Category Sub (Part Sub Category)

Determines the Main category and the Sub category for the selected Part.

Settings: See the Data List PDF document.

Part Name

Determines the Part name of the selected Part. Part names can contain up to 20 characters. Touching the parameter calls up the input character display.

Volume (Part Volume)

Determines the output level of the selected Part.

Settings: 0–127

Pan

Determines the stereo pan position of the selected Part.

Settings: L63–C–R63

Normal Part (AWM2) Edit

Common

Part Settings

General

Pitch

Zone Settings

Zone Transmit

Effect

Routing

Ins A

Ins B

EQ

Ins Assign

Arpeggio

Common

Individual

Advanced

Motion Seq

Common

Lane

Mod / Control

Part LFO

Control Assign

Receive SW

Element

Osc / Tune

Pitch EG

Filter

Type

Filter EG

Scale

Amplitude

Level / Pan

Amp EG

Scale

Element LFO

Element EQ

All Element

Osc

Balance

Copy or Exchange

Elements

MODX Reference Manual

66

Information

•The illustrations and LCD screens as shown in this manual are for instructional purposes only, and may appear somewhat different from those on your instrument.

•All other trademarks are the property of their respective holders.

•iPhone, iPad, and Lightning are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

MODX Reference Manual	2

Basic Structure

Functional Blocks

The MODX6/MODX7/MODX8 system consists of eight main functional blocks: Tone Generator, A/D Input, Sequencer, Motion Sequencer, Arpeggio, Controller, Effect, and Envelope Follower.

Controller Block (page 22)											Control Message Flow
					Motion Sequencer Block						Audio Signal Flow
	Keyboard
					(page 17)
	Controllers
	(such as Super Knob)

	Tone Generator (page 4)		Effects (page 19)
	AWM2 Tone Generator
			System Effects
	FM-X Tone Generator
			13 Insertion Effects
		16 Parts
			Element EQ
	Performances
			Part EQ
			Master Effect
			Master EQ
	Sequencer Block	Arpeggio Block
	(page 10)	(page 11)
	16-Track	Arpeggio Playback x 8	Envelope	A/D Input
	MIDI Sequencer	Preset Arpeggio
	Songs	User Arpeggio	Follower Block	(page 10)
			(page 21)

MIDI OUT

MIDI IN

AUDIO IN

AUDIO OUT

[USB TO HOST]

[USB TO HOST]

[USB TO HOST]

[USB TO HOST]

MIDI [OUT]

MIDI [IN]

A/D INPUT [L/MONO]/[R]

OUTPUT [L/MONO]/[R]

Basic Structure

Functional blocks

Tone Generator block

A/D Input block

Sequencer block

Arpeggio block

Motion Sequencer block

Effect block

Envelope Follower block

Controller block

Internal Memory

Reference

Display (touch panel) config.

Performance Play (Home)

Motion Control

Mixing

Scene

Play/Rec

Normal Part (AWM) Edit

Drum Part Edit

Normal Part (FM-X) Edit

Common/Audio Edit

Category Search

Utility

Live Set

iPhone/iPad connection

Computer	External MIDI equipment	Computer	Microphone,	Computer	Powered
			audio equipment,		speakers, etc.
			etc.

AWM2 (Advanced Wave Memory 2)

This instrument is equipped with an AWM2 tone generator block. AWM2 (Advanced Wave Memory 2) is a synthesis system based on sampled waves (sound material), and is used in many Yamaha synthesizers. For extra realism, each AWM2 Voice uses multiple samples of a real instrument’s waveform. Furthermore, a wide variety of parameters—envelope generator, filter, modulation, and others—can be applied.

MODX Reference Manual	3

FM-X

This synthesizer also features an FM-X tone generator, in addition to the AWM2 block. The abbreviation “FM” of FM-X stands for “frequency modulation,” which is a special tone generation system that uses the frequency of one waveform to modulate another waveform, in order to produce a completely new one. In this synthesizer, there are eight FM Operators and a full 88 different Algorithm types. By changing the operator combination patterns, controlling the modulation with other parameters such as levels and envelopes, and using high-quality filters, effects, and EQ commonly with AWM2, you can create richly textured sounds that change in a highly complex fashion.

Tone Generator Block

The tone generator block is what actually produces sound in response to the MIDI messages received from the Sequencer block, Controller block, Arpeggio block and from the external MIDI instrument. The MIDI messages are assigned to sixteen independent channels, and the instrument is capable of simultaneously playing sixteen separate Parts, via the sixteen MIDI channels. However, the sixteenchannel limit can be overcome by using separate MIDI “ports,” each supporting sixteen channels. The tone generator block of this instrument can handle MIDI messages over Port 1.

Tone Generator block

Performances

A Performance is a single set of sounds consisting of multiple Parts. You can change sounds as desired by selecting the appropriate Performance. Each Performance has two types of parameters; parameters unique to each Part and parameters common to all Parts. You can edit the entire Performance in the Common/Audio Edit display (page 159).

Part structure of a Performance

A Performance consists of 16 Parts and you can create Performances (in which multiple Parts or Parts are combined—in a layer, or in other configurations) using the keyboard.

Parts

Internally, there are three Part types: Normal Parts (AWM2), Normal Parts (FM-X), and Drum Parts. Normal Parts (AWM2) are mainly pitched musical instrument type sounds that can be played over the full range of the keyboard. Normal Parts (FM-X) are also mainly pitched musical instrument type sounds, using FM synthesis. Drum Parts are mainly percussion/drum sounds that are assigned to individual notes. A Normal Part (AWM2) can consist of up to eight Elements, a Normal Part (FM-X) can consist of up to eight Operators, and a Drum Part can consist of up to 73 Drum Keys.

An Element/Operator/Drum Key is the basic, smallest unit for a Part. By combining multiple Elements/ Operators/Keys, Parts can be created to produce even more realistic sounds or various richly textured types of sound. Each Part is created by editing parameters unique to each (Element Edit parameters/ Operator Edit parameters/Key Edit parameters) and parameters common to all the Elements/Operators/ Keys (Element Common Edit, Operator Common Edit, and Key Common Edit parameters.)

NOTE For instructions on editing a Normal Part (AWM2), see page 66. For instructions on editing a Normal Part (FM-X), see page 145. For instructions on editing a Drum Part, see page 133.

Basic Structure

Functional blocks

Tone Generator block

A/D Input block

Sequencer block

Arpeggio block

Motion Sequencer block

Effect block

Envelope Follower block

Controller block

Internal Memory

Reference

Display (touch panel) config.

Performance Play (Home)

Motion Control

Mixing

Scene

Play/Rec

Normal Part (AWM) Edit

Drum Part Edit

Normal Part (FM-X) Edit

Common/Audio Edit

Category Search

Utility

Live Set

iPhone/iPad connection

MODX Reference Manual	4

Normal Parts (AWM2), Normal Parts (FM-X), and Drum Parts

Normal Parts (AWM2)
These Parts are played conventionally from the
keyboard, with standard pitches sounding for each key,	Element 2	Element 4	Element 6
generated by AWM2. A Normal Part consists of up to	Velocity
eight Elements. Depending on the settings in the Part	Element 1	Element 3	Element 5
Edit, these Elements are sounded simultaneously, or
different Elements are sounded according to the note
range, velocity range and the XA (Expanded
Articulation) settings (page 6).

The illustration shows an example of a Normal Part (AWM2). Since the six Elements here are distributed across both the note range of the keyboard and the velocity range, a different Element sounds depending on which note you play and how strongly you play it. In the velocity distribution, Elements 1, 3 and 5 sound when playing the keyboard softly, while Elements 2, 4 and 6 sound when playing it strongly. In the note distribution, Elements 1 and 2 sound in the lower range of the keyboard, Elements 3 and 4 sound in the middle range, and Elements 5 and 6 sound in the higher range. In the velocity distribution, Elements 1, 3 and 5 sound when playing the keyboard softly, while Elements 2, 4 and 6 sound when playing it strongly. In a practical example of this in use, a piano Part could be composed of six different samples. Elements 1, 3 and 5 would be the sounds of the piano played softly, over the respective note ranges, while Elements 2, 4 and 6 would be strongly played sounds, for each respective note range. Actually, this instrument is even more flexible than this, since it allows up to eight independent Elements.

Normal Parts (FM-X)

These Parts are also played conventionally from the keyboard, with standard pitches sounding for each key, generated by FM synthesis. The sound for a Normal Part (FM-X) is created by modulating a frequency of a fundamental waveform with another waveform. An operator that generates a fundamental waveform is a “carrier,” and an operator that modulates these waveforms is a “modulator.” The combination of a number of Operators is called “Algorithm.”

When the waveform output from the Operator is a simple sine wave, no harmonics are included other than the fundamental tone. However, you can create harmonics by modulating the waveform with other Operators. How harmonics can be created depends on the Modulators’ output levels and the frequency rates of Carriers and Modulators. On the other hand, the basic pitch is determined by Carrier’s frequency, and the output level is determined by the Carrier’s output level. The figure described below shows a basic way to create FM sound by using an analog synthesizer.

Modulator OP

Frequency ratio of the Modulator and the Carrier determines the base waveform including specific harmonics by the Oscillator.

Modulator output level determines the Cutoff Frequency of the Filter.

Modulation	Modulator envelope determines
	the Filter envelope.

Carrier OP
		Carrier output level
		determines the volume
Carrier frequency determines		by using the amplifier.		Carrier envelope determines
the pitch of the Oscillator.				the amplifier envelope.

Although the figure described above shows waveforms which are generated by two operators, the MODX has eight Operators. The combination of a number of Operators is called an “Algorithm” and this synthesizer has parameters for setting the Algorithm.

Drum Parts

Drum Parts are mainly percussion/drum sounds that are assigned to individual notes on the keyboard (C0 to C6). Unlike Elements, a Drum

key is equivalent to the corresponding note,	C0	C1	C6
	Individual drum
meaning that you cannot change its range.
	sounds
Drum or percussion sounds are assigned to	(different for
each Drum Key. You can create various types of	each key)
Drum Parts by changing the drum or percussion sound assigned to each key and edit the parameters
such as pitch and EG.

Basic Structure

Functional blocks

Tone Generator block

A/D Input block

Sequencer block

Arpeggio block

Motion Sequencer block

Effect block

Envelope Follower block

Controller block

Internal Memory

Reference

Display (touch panel) config.

Performance Play (Home)

Motion Control

Mixing

Scene

Play/Rec

Normal Part (AWM) Edit

Drum Part Edit

Normal Part (FM-X) Edit

Common/Audio Edit

Category Search

Utility

Live Set

iPhone/iPad connection

MODX Reference Manual	5

Expanded Articulation (XA)

Expanded Articulation (XA) is a tone generation system that provides greater performance flexibility and acoustic realism. This feature allows you to more effectively recreate realistic sound and natural performance techniques—such as legato and staccato—and provides other unique modes for random and alternate sound changes as you play.

Realistic legato performance

This instrument more accurately reproduces a legato effect by allowing specific Elements to be sounded when playing legato and other Elements to be played normally (with the XA Control parameter settings “Normal” and “Legato”).

Authentic note release sound

The MODX reproduces these special, characteristic sounds by setting the XA Control parameter of certain Elements to “Key Off.”

Subtle sound variations for each note played

The MODX more accurately reproduces these subtle sound variations by using the XA Control parameter settings “Cycle” and “Random.”

Switching among different sounds to recreate the natural performance on an acoustic instrument

Acoustic instruments have their own unique characteristics—even specific, unique sounds that are produced only at certain times in a performance. These include the flutter tonguing on a flute or the playing of high harmonics on an acoustic guitar. The MODX recreates these by allowing you to switch between the sounds while you play—using the [ASSIGN 1]/[ASSIGN 2] buttons and the XA Control parameter settings, “A.SW1 On,” “A.SW2 On” and “A.SW Off.”

NOTE You can turn the [ASSIGN 1]/[ASSIGN 2] button on or off also by transmitting the Control Change number specified in the Common/Audio Edit display ([Control]  [Control Number]) (page 167) from an external device.

New sounds and new styles of playing

The highly versatile functions above can be applied effectively not only to acoustic sounds but also to synthesizer and electronic Parts as well. The XA feature opens up enormous potential for realizing authentic sounds, performing expressively and coming up with creative new styles of playing.

Basic Structure

Functional blocks

Tone Generator block

A/D Input block

Sequencer block

Arpeggio block

Motion Sequencer block

Effect block

Envelope Follower block

Controller block

Internal Memory

Reference

Display (touch panel) config.

Performance Play (Home)

Motion Control

Mixing

Scene

Play/Rec

Normal Part (AWM) Edit

Drum Part Edit

Normal Part (FM-X) Edit

Common/Audio Edit

Category Search

Utility

Live Set

iPhone/iPad connection

Motion Control System

The Motion Control System is a completely new feature for variably controlling Motions (rhythmical, multidimensional sound changes) in real time. This amazingly powerful feature dramatically and dynamically alters the sounds of the instrument in new, never-heard-before ways—changing texturally, rhythmically with the beats, providing cool, colorful lighting effects, and responding expressively to your creative passion. The Motion Control System has three main functions:

Super Knob:

For creating multi-dimensional sonic changes, and enhancing those changes with colorful, continually shifting lighting changes. Multiple parameters can be controlled simultaneously.

Motion Sequencer:

For continually variable sound changes. The powerful Motion Sequencer feature lets you dynamically change sounds by operating Parameters depending on sequences created in advance. It provides real time control for changing sounds depending on various sequences such as Tempo, Arpeggio, or the rhythm of external connected devices.

Envelope Follower:

Envelope Follower is a function for detecting the volume envelope of the input signal waveform and modifying sounds dynamically.

NOTE Envelope Follower can be controlled not only by the audio signal from an external device, but also by the output of all Parts.

MODX Reference Manual	6

Motion Control System Structure

• Continuous control of

	Motion changes
	• Switch between Motions
	• Trigger, Hold
		Control the Motion
		Sequencer in real time
AUDIO • Part 1–16	BEAT • Audio Beat Sync
• A/D Input Part	• External MIDI
	• Internal Tempo
Envelope Follower	Motion Sequencer	Super Knob

Rhythmic change

Automation

Multi-dimensional

sonic change

Tone generator

Effect

For details on the Motion Control, refer to the website below:

http://www.yamaha.com/modx/

Basic Structure

Functional blocks

Tone Generator block

A/D Input block

Sequencer block

Arpeggio block

Motion Sequencer block

Effect block

Envelope Follower block

Controller block

Internal Memory

Reference

Display (touch panel) config.

Performance Play (Home)

Motion Control

Mixing

Scene

Play/Rec

Normal Part (AWM) Edit

Drum Part Edit

Normal Part (FM-X) Edit

Common/Audio Edit

Category Search

Utility

Live Set

iPhone/iPad connection

MODX Reference Manual	7

Elements, Drum Keys and Operators

Elements/Drum Keys/Operators are the smallest “building blocks” in the MODX that comprise a Part. These small sound units can be built, enhanced and processed by a variety of traditional synthesizer parameters, such as Pitch EG, Filter EG, Amplitude EG, and LFO (shown below).

LFO

Low Frequency Oscillator

	OSC (Oscillator)					FILTER		AMP
	Waveform (AWM2)
						Changes the tonal		Controls the output
						quality of the		level (amplitude) of
	PITCH					sound.		the sound.
Controls the pitch of
	the sound.
	Pitch EG					Filter EG		Amplitude EG
	(Pitch Envelope					(Filter Envelope		(Amplitude Envelope
	Generator)					Generator)		Generator)

Oscillator

This unit allows you to assign the waveform (or basic sound material) to each Element/Operator/Key. Oscillator-related parameters can be set as follows.

•For Normal Parts (AWM2) and Drum Parts

[EDIT]  Part selection  Element selection  [Osc/Tune] (page 107, page 140)

•For Normal Parts (FM-X)

[EDIT]  Part selection  Operator selection  [Form/Freq] (page 155)

Pitch

This unit allows you to control how the pitch changes over time. Pitch-related parameters can be set as follows.

•For Normal Parts (AWM2) and Drum Parts

[EDIT]  Part selection  Element selection  [Osc/Tune] (page 107, page 140)

•For Normal Parts (FM-X)

[EDIT]  Part selection  Operator [Common]  [Pitch/Filter] (page 148)

Parameters related to Pitch EG can be set as follows.

•For Normal Parts (AWM2)

[EDIT]  Part selection  Element selection  [Pitch EG] (page 111)

•For Normal Parts (FM-X)

[EDIT]  Part selection  Operator [Common]  [Pitch/Filter] (page 148)

Filter

This unit modifies the tone of the sound by cutting the output of a specific frequency portion of the sound. Also, by setting the FEG (Filter Envelope Generator), you can control how the Cutoff Frequency of the Filter changes over time. Parameters related to Filter and Filter EG can be set as follows.

•For Normal Parts (AWM2) and Drum Parts

[EDIT]  Part selection  Element selection  [Filter] (page 113, page 142)

•For Normal Parts (FM-X)

[EDIT]  Part selection  Operator [Common]  [Pitch/Filter] (page 148)

Basic Structure

Functional blocks

Tone Generator block

A/D Input block

Sequencer block

Arpeggio block

Motion Sequencer block

Effect block

Envelope Follower block

Controller block

Internal Memory

Reference

Display (touch panel) config.

Performance Play (Home)

Motion Control

Mixing

Scene

Play/Rec

Normal Part (AWM) Edit

Drum Part Edit

Normal Part (FM-X) Edit

Common/Audio Edit

Category Search

Utility

Live Set

iPhone/iPad connection

MODX Reference Manual	8

Amplitude

This unit controls the output level (amplitude) of the Element/Drum Key/Operator. Parameters related to Amplitude and Amplitude EG can be set as follows.

•For Normal Parts (AWM2)

[EDIT]  Part selection  Element selection  [Amplitude] (page 121)

•For Drum Parts

[EDIT]  Part selection  Element selection  [Level/Pan] (page 143)

•For Normal Parts (FM-X)

[EDIT]  Part selection  Operator selection  [Level] (page 157)

LFO (Low Frequency Oscillator)

As its name suggests, the LFO produces a wave of a low frequency.

These waves can be used to vary the pitch, filter or amplitude of each Element/Operator to create effects such as vibrato, wah and tremolo. There are two LFO types: Part LFO, which is common to all Elements/ Operators, and Element LFO, which is unique for each Element.

Parameters related to Part LFO can be set as follows.

•For Normal Parts (AWM2)

[EDIT]  Part selection  Element [Common]  [Mod/Control]  [Part LFO] (page 96)

•For Normal Parts (FM-X)

[EDIT]  Part selection  Operator [Common]  [Mod/Control]  [Part LFO] or [2nd LFO] (page 152)

Parameters related to Element LFO can be set as follows.

[EDIT]  Part selection  Element selection  [Element LFO] (page 126)

Maximum Polyphony

Maximum polyphony refers to the highest number of notes that can be sounded simultaneously from the internal tone generator of the instrument.

The maximum polyphony of this synthesizer is 128 for AWM2 and 64 for FM-X. When the internal tone generator block receives a number of notes exceeding the maximum polyphony, previously played notes are cut off. Keep in mind that this may be especially noticeable with Parts not having decay. Furthermore, the maximum polyphony applies to the number of Elements/Drum Keys used, not the number of Parts. When Normal Parts (AWM2) that include up to eight Elements are used, the maximum number of simultaneous notes may be less than 128.

Basic Structure

Functional blocks

Tone Generator block

A/D Input block

Sequencer block

Arpeggio block

Motion Sequencer block

Effect block

Envelope Follower block

Controller block

Internal Memory

Reference

Display (touch panel) config.

Performance Play (Home)

Motion Control

Mixing

Scene

Play/Rec

Normal Part (AWM) Edit

Drum Part Edit

Normal Part (FM-X) Edit

Common/Audio Edit

Category Search

Utility

Live Set

iPhone/iPad connection

MODX Reference Manual	9

A/D Input Block

This block handles the audio signal input from the A/D INPUT [L/MONO]/[R] jacks. Various parameters such as volume, pan, and effect can be set for the audio signal and the sound is output together with other Parts. An Insertion Effect, the System Effects, the Master Effects, and the Master EQ can be applied to the audio signal input via the A/D INPUT [L/MONO]/[R] jacks.

Parameters related to the A/D Input block can be set as follows.

[PERFORMANCE (HOME)]  [Mixing] (page 50)

[EDIT]  Part [Common]  [Audio In]  [Mixing] (page 161)

The Effect which is applied to the audio signal input from the A/D INPUT [L/MONO]/[R] jacks can be set as follows.

[EDIT]  Part [Common]  [Audio In]  [Routing] (page 162)

The gain of the audio signal from the A/D INPUT [L/MONO]/[R] jacks can be adjusted via the A/D INPUT [GAIN] knob on the panel. Moreover, the on/off setting of the audio signal from the A/D INPUT [L/MONO]/ [R] jacks can be turned on/off via the A/D INPUT [ON/OFF] button.

[UTILITY]  [Settings]  [Audio I/O]  “A/D Input” (page 190)

Sequencer Block

This lets you create Songs by recording and editing your performances as MIDI data (from the controller block or an external device), allowing you to play the data back with the tone generator block.

Songs

A Song is created by recording your keyboard performance as MIDI sequence data to individual Tracks. The MODX can store up to 128 Songs.

Tracks

This is a memory location on the sequencer where your musical performances are stored. One Part can be recorded to one track. Since the MODX has 16 tracks for one Song, you can record and play back a 16Part performance.

MIDI recording

You can record your keyboard performance to the Song. You can record knob operations, controller operations and Arpeggio playback as well as your keyboard playing to the specified Track as MIDI events. Your keyboard performance and controller/knob operations will be recorded to the Track when the corresponding Keyboard Control Switch for the Part is turned ON.

NOTE The Control Change messages and Parameter Change messages can be recorded by operating the Knobs. For details on Control Change messages, see the Synthesizer Parameter Manual PDF document.

NOTE For detailed instruction, refer to the Owner’s Manual.

Basic Structure

Functional blocks

Tone Generator block

A/D Input block

Sequencer block

Arpeggio block

Motion Sequencer block

Effect block

Envelope Follower block

Controller block

Internal Memory

Reference

Display (touch panel) config.

Performance Play (Home)

Motion Control

Mixing

Scene

Play/Rec

Normal Part (AWM) Edit

Drum Part Edit

Normal Part (FM-X) Edit

Common/Audio Edit

Category Search

Utility

Live Set

iPhone/iPad connection

MODX Reference Manual	10

Arpeggio Block

This block lets you automatically trigger musical and rhythmic phrases by simply pressing a note or notes on the keyboard. Yamaha’s Arpeggio sequence also changes in response to the actual notes or chords you play, giving you a wide variety of inspiring musical phrases and ideas—both in composing and performing.

Arpeggio categories

The Arpeggio types are divided into 18 categories (including “No Assign” and “Control/Hybrid Seq”) as listed below. The categories are based on instrument type.

Arpeggio Type Category List

Piano	Piano
Keys	Keyboard
Organ	Organ
Gtr	Guitar
Bass	Bass
Str	String
Brass	Brass
WW	Woodwind
SynLd	Syn Lead

Pad	Pad/Choir
SynCp	Syn Comp
CPerc	Chromatic Perc
Dr/Pc	Drum/Perc
S.FX	Sound FX
M.FX	Musical FX
Ethnc	Ethnic
---	No Assign
Ct/Hb	Control / Hybrid Seq

Sub categories

The Arpeggio categories are divided into the sub categories listed below. Because the sub categories are listed based on the music genre, it is easy to find the sub category appropriate for your desired music style.

Arpeggio Type Sub Category List

Rock	Rock
Pop Rock	Pop Rock
Ballad	Ballad
Chill	Chillout / Ambient
Hip Hop	Hip Hop
Funk	Funk
Modern R&B	Modern R&B
Classic R&B	Classic R&B
House	House / Dance Pop
Techno	Techno / Trance
Jazz	Jazz / Swing
D&B	D&B / Breakbeats
Latin	Latin

World	World
General	General
No Assign	No Assign
Filter	Filter *
Exprs	Expression *
Pan	Pan *
Mod	Modulation *
PBend	Pitch Bend *
Assign	Assign 1/2 *
Comb	Comb *
Zone	Zone Velocity *
Z.Pad	Zone Vel for Pad *

NOTE In the Category Search display, the Sub Categories marked with an asterisk (*) are displayed only when “Control/Hybrid Seq” is selected as the Category type.

Basic Structure

Functional blocks

Tone Generator block

A/D Input block

Sequencer block

Arpeggio block

Motion Sequencer block

Effect block

Envelope Follower block

Controller block

Internal Memory

Reference

Display (touch panel) config.

Performance Play (Home)

Motion Control

Mixing

Scene

Play/Rec

Normal Part (AWM) Edit

Drum Part Edit

Normal Part (FM-X) Edit

Common/Audio Edit

Category Search

Utility

Live Set

iPhone/iPad connection

MODX Reference Manual	11

Arpeggio Type Name

The Arpeggio Types are named according to certain rules and abbreviations. Once you understand these rules and abbreviations, you’ll find it easy to browse through and select the desired Arpeggio Types.

Arpeggio types with “_N” at the end of the type name (example: HipHop1_N)

These Arpeggios are for using with the Normal Part, and Arpeggios with complex notes can be created even when triggered by one note (page 14).

Arpeggio types with “_C” at the end of the type name (example: Rock1_C)

These Arpeggios are for using with the Normal Part, and correct Arpeggios can be created corresponding to the chord you play (page 14).

Arpeggio types with a normal name (example: UpOct1)

In addition to the above types, there are three playback types: the Arpeggios created for use of Normal Parts and played back using only the played notes and their octave notes (page 14), the Arpeggios created for use of Drum Parts (page 15), and Arpeggios containing mainly non-note events (page 15).

Arpeggio types with “_AF1”, “_AF2”, or “_AF1&2” at the end of the type name (example: Electro Pop AF1)

When these Arpeggios are played, both of [ASSIGN 1] and [ASSIGN 2] buttons are automatically turned ON and the phrase starts playback.

Arpeggio types with [Mg] at the beginning of the type name (example: [Mg]HardRock1)

These Arpeggios are for using with a Mega Voice.

Mega Voices and Mega Voice Arpeggios

Normal sound uses velocity switching to make the sound quality and/or level of a Part change according to how strongly or softly you play the keyboard—giving greater authenticity and natural response to these Parts. However Mega Voices have a very complex structure with many different layers that are not suitable for playing manually. Mega Voices were developed specifically to be played by Mega Voice Arpeggios to produce incredibly realistic results. You should always use Mega Voices with Mega Voice Arpeggios.

The Arpeggio Type List in the Data List PDF document contains the following columns.

Main

Sub

ARP

ARP Name

Time

Length

Original

Accent

Random

SoundType

Category

Category

No.

Signature

Tempo

SFX

ApKb

Rock

1

MA_70s Rock _ES

4 / 4

2

130

Acoustic Piano

ApKb

Rock

2

MB_70s Rock _ES

4 / 4

1

130

:

ApKb

Rock

3

MC_70s Rock

4 / 4

2

130

ApKb

Rock

4

MD_70s Rock

4 / 4

4

130

ApKb

Rock

5

FA_70s Rock

4 / 4

1

130

ApKb

Rock

6

FB_70s Rock _ES

4 / 4

1

130

ApKb

Rock

7

FC_70s Rock _ES

4 / 4

2

130

NOTE Note that this list is for illustration purposes only. For a complete listing of the Arpeggio Types, see the Data List PDF document.

1Main Category

Indicates an Arpeggio Main Category.

2Sub Category

Indicates an Arpeggio Sub Category.

3ARP No (Arpeggio Number)

Indicates the Arpeggio type number.

4ARP Name (Arpeggio Name)

Indicates the Arpeggio Name.

Basic Structure

Functional blocks

Tone Generator block

A/D Input block

Sequencer block

Arpeggio block

Motion Sequencer block

Effect block

Envelope Follower block

Controller block

Internal Memory

Reference

Display (touch panel) config.

Performance Play (Home)

Motion Control

Mixing

Scene

Play/Rec

Normal Part (AWM) Edit

Drum Part Edit

Normal Part (FM-X) Edit

Common/Audio Edit

Category Search

Utility

Live Set

iPhone/iPad connection

MODX Reference Manual	12

5Time Signature

Indicates the time signature or meter of the Arpeggio type.

6Length

Indicates the data length (amount of measures) of the Arpeggio type. When the Loop parameter*1 is set to “off,” the Arpeggio plays back for this length and stops.

7Original Tempo

Indicates the appropriate tempo value of the Arpeggio type. Note that this tempo is not set automatically when selecting an Arpeggio type.

8Accent

The circle indicates that the Arpeggio uses the Accent Phrase feature (page 14).

9Random SFX

The circle indicates that the Arpeggio uses the SFX feature (page 14).

)Sound Type

Indicates the sound type appropriate for the Arpeggio Type.

*1 The Loop parameter is set as follows.

[EDIT]  Part Selection  Element/Operator [Common]  [Arpeggio]  [Common] (page 82)

Arpeggio-related settings

There are several methods for triggering and stopping the Arpeggio playback. In addition, you can set whether or not SFX sounds and special Accent Phrases are triggered along with the normal sequence data.

Turning Arpeggio playback on/off

The following three settings are available for turning the Arpeggio playback on/off.

To play the Arpeggio only when the note is	Set the “Hold” parameter to “Off” and the “Trigger
pressed:	Mode” parameter to “Gate.”
To continue the Arpeggio even if the note is	Set the “Hold” parameter to “On” and the “Trigger
released:	Mode” parameter to “Gate.”
To toggle the Arpeggio playback on/off	Set the “Trigger Mode” parameter to “Toggle.” The
whenever the note is pressed:	“Hold” parameter can be set to either “On” or “Off.”

NOTE “Hold” is set as follows.

[EDIT]  Part Selection  Element/Operator [Common]  [Arpeggio]  [Common] (page 82)

NOTE When receiving a MIDI sustain message (control change #64) with both of “Arp Master” and “Arp Part” set to “On,” you can obtain the same result by setting “Hold” to “On.”

NOTE “Trigger Mode” is set as follows.

[EDIT]  Part Selection  Element/Operator [Common]  [Arpeggio]  [Advanced] (page 87)

Using the Knobs to control Arpeggios

By pressing the Knob Function [TONE]/[EG/FX]/[EQ]/[ARP/MS] button and selecting “ARP/MS,” you can use the Knobs 1–2 to control Arpeggio playback. Try this out and listen for the changes in the sound. For details regarding the effect of the Knobs 1–2, see Quick Edit (page 37).

Arpeggio functions which can be controlled by Knob operations

Knob 1 Knob 2 Knob 3 Knob 4

Basic Structure

Functional blocks

Tone Generator block

A/D Input block

Sequencer block

Arpeggio block

Motion Sequencer block

Effect block

Envelope Follower block

Controller block

Internal Memory

Reference

Display (touch panel) config.

Performance Play (Home)

Motion Control

Mixing

Scene

Play/Rec

Normal Part (AWM) Edit

Drum Part Edit

Normal Part (FM-X) Edit

Common/Audio Edit

Category Search

Utility

Live Set

iPhone/iPad connection

MODX Reference Manual	13

Accent Phrases

Accent Phrases are composed of sequence data included in some Arpeggio types, sounding only when you play notes at a velocity higher (stronger) than that specified in the Accent Velocity Threshold parameter.

If it is hard to play at velocities necessary to trigger the Accent Phrase, set the “Vel Threshold” (Accent Velocity Threshold) parameter to a lower value.

NOTE “Vel Threshold” (Accent Velocity Threshold) parameter is set as follows.

[EDIT]  Part Selection  Element/Operator [Common]  [Arpeggio]  [Advanced] (page 87)

NOTE For information on Arpeggio types that use this function, refer to the “Arpeggio Type List” in the Data List PDF document.

Random SFX

Some Arpeggio types feature a Random SFX function which will trigger special sounds (such as guitar fret noises) when the note is released. The following parameters affecting Random SFX are provided.

For turning the Random SFX on/off:	Random SFX parameter
For setting the volume of the SFX sound:	Velocity Offset (Random SFX Velocity Offset)
	parameter
For determining whether or not the volume of	Key On Ctrl (Random SFX Key on Control) parameter
the SFX sound is controlled by velocity:

NOTE “Random SFX,” “Velocity Offset,” and “Key On Ctrl” are set as follows.

[EDIT]  Part Selection  Element/Operator [Common]  [Arpeggio]  [Advanced] (page 87)

NOTE The Random SFX function is not available for the Arpeggio which stops when the note is released.

NOTE For information on Arpeggio types that use the Random SFX function, refer to the “Arpeggio Type List” in the Data List PDF document.

Arpeggio playback types

There are three main Arpeggio playback types as described below.

Arpeggios for Normal Parts

Arpeggio types (belonging to all categories except for Drum/Perc and a part of Control/HybridSeq) created for use of Normal Parts have the following three playback types.

Playback of played notes only

The Arpeggio is played back using only the played note(s) and octave notes.

Playback of a programmed sequence according to the played notes

These Arpeggio types have the several sequences each of which is suited for a certain chord type. Even if you press only one note, the Arpeggio is played back using the programmed sequence—meaning that notes other than the ones you play may be sounded. Pressing another note triggers a transposed sequence using the pressed note as the new root note. Adding notes to those already held changes the sequence accordingly. Arpeggios with this playback type have “_N” at the end of the type name.

Playback of a programmed sequence according to the played chord

These Arpeggio types created for use with Normal Parts are played back to match the chord type determined by detecting the notes you play on the keyboard. Arpeggios with this playback type have “_C” at the end of the type name.

NOTE When the “Key Mode” parameter is set to “Sort” or “Sort+Drct,” the same sequence is played back no matter what order you play the notes. When the “Key Mode” parameter is set to “Thru” or “Thru+Drct,” a different sequence is played back depending on the order you play the notes.

NOTE Since these types are programmed for Normal Parts, using them with Drum Parts may not produce musically appropriate results.

Basic Structure

Functional blocks

Tone Generator block

A/D Input block

Sequencer block

Arpeggio block

Motion Sequencer block

Effect block

Envelope Follower block

Controller block

Internal Memory

Reference

Display (touch panel) config.

Performance Play (Home)

Motion Control

Mixing

Scene

Play/Rec

Normal Part (AWM) Edit

Drum Part Edit

Normal Part (FM-X) Edit

Common/Audio Edit

Category Search

Utility

Live Set

iPhone/iPad connection

MODX Reference Manual	14

Arpeggios for Drum Parts

Arpeggio types in Drum/Perc categories are programmed specifically for use with Drum Parts, giving you instant access to various rhythm patterns. Three different playback types are available.

Playback of a drum pattern

Pressing any note(s) will trigger the same rhythm pattern.

Playback of a drum pattern, plus additional played notes (assigned drum instruments)

Pressing any note will trigger the same rhythm pattern. Adding notes to the one already held produces additional sounds (assigned drum instruments) for the drum pattern.

Playback only of the played notes (assigned drum instruments)

Playing a note or notes will trigger a rhythm pattern using only the notes played (assigned drum instruments). Keep in mind that even if you play the same notes, the triggered rhythm pattern differs depending on the order of the notes played. This gives you access to different rhythm patterns using the same instruments simply by changing the order in which you play the notes, when the “Key Mode” parameter is set to “Thru” or “Thru+Drct.”

NOTE The three playback types above are not distinguished by category name or type name. You’ll have to actually play the types and hear the difference.

NOTE Since these types are programmed for Drum Parts, using them with Normal Parts may not produce musically appropriate results.

Arpeggios containing mainly non-note events

Arpeggio types (in Control/HybridSeq main categories with Filter, Expression, Pan, Modulation, Pitch Bend, and Assign 1/2 sub categories) are programmed primarily with Control Change and Pitch Bend data. They are used to change the tone or pitch of the sound, rather than play specific notes.

In fact, some types contain no note data at all. When using a type of this category, set the “Key Mode” parameter to “Direct,” “Sort+Drct,” or “Thru+Drct.”

NOTE Settings related to Key Mode are set as follows.

[EDIT]  Part Selection  Element/Operator [Common]  [Arpeggio]  [Common] (page 82)

Tips for Arpeggio playback

Arpeggios not only provide inspiration and full rhythmic passages over which you can perform, they give you quality MIDI data you can use in creating Songs, or fully formed backing parts to be used in your live performances. For instructions on using Arpeggio, see the Owner’s Manual.

Basic Structure

Functional blocks

Tone Generator block

A/D Input block

Sequencer block

Arpeggio block

Motion Sequencer block

Effect block

Envelope Follower block

Controller block

Internal Memory

Reference

Display (touch panel) config.

Performance Play (Home)

Motion Control

Mixing

Scene

Play/Rec

Normal Part (AWM) Edit

Drum Part Edit

Normal Part (FM-X) Edit

Common/Audio Edit

Category Search

Utility

Live Set

iPhone/iPad connection

MODX Reference Manual	15

Creating an Arpeggio

In addition to using the preset Arpeggios, you can also create your own original Arpeggio data. First, record a phrase to Song Tracks (up to a maximum of four). Then, convert the Song (or the MIDI sequence data) to Arpeggio data from the Put Track to Arpeggio display.

1 Record MIDI sequence data to a Song.

2 Convert the MIDI sequence data (recorded to the Song) to Arpeggio data.

			Song
Recording
			Track 1
			Track 2
			Track 3
Recording
			Track 4
			Track 5
			Track 6
			Track 7
Recording
			Track 8
			Track 9
			Track 10
			Track 11
Recording
			Track 12
			Track 13
			Track 14
			Track 15
			Track 16

You can record MIDI sequence data for the Arpeggio to any of the Tracks. After recording, select four Tracks from all sixteen and convert them to Arpeggio data.

Arpeggio

User Arpeggio 256

User Arpeggio 001

Track 1

Track 2

Track 3

Track 4

Convert

[SONG] (Play) button or

[PERFORMANCE (HOME)]  [Play/Rec]  [MIDI]  Touch the Song Name  [User Arp]

After the above procedure, select tracks from the Put Track to Arpeggio display (page 63) to convert the Song to your own Arpeggio.

Basic Structure

Functional blocks

Tone Generator block

A/D Input block

Sequencer block

Arpeggio block

Motion Sequencer block

Effect block

Envelope Follower block

Controller block

Internal Memory

Reference

Display (touch panel) config.

Performance Play (Home)

Motion Control

Mixing

Scene

Play/Rec

Normal Part (AWM) Edit

Drum Part Edit

Normal Part (FM-X) Edit

Common/Audio Edit

Category Search

Utility

Live Set

iPhone/iPad connection

Determining how Song/Pattern data is converted to an Arpeggio – Convert Type

MIDI sequence data (of Song Tracks) can be converted to Arpeggio data in one of three ways, according to the Convert types below. These types can also be selected independently for each destination Track— providing enormous flexibility and performance control.

Normal (Normal Arpeggio)	The Arpeggio is played back using only the played note and its octave notes.
Fixed	Playing any note(s) will trigger the same MIDI sequence data.
OrgNotes (Original Notes)	Basically same as “Fixed” with the exception that the Arpeggio playback notes
	differ according to the played chord.

Record the MIDI sequence data to a Song Track, referring to the previous instructions in this chapter as needed. The examples listed below are used as reference.

Creating a rhythm pattern (using a Drum Voice)

Track 1	Record a basic rhythm pattern using various drum instruments.	Convert via “Fixed.”
Track 2–4	Record a different rhythm pattern using a specific drum instrument to	Convert via “Normal.”
	each Track.

Creating a bass line (using a Normal Voice)

Track 1	Record a bass line using a specific desired key	Convert via “OrgNote” after the OrgNotes Root is
	(root).	set.
Track 2–4		off

MODX Reference Manual	16

Motion Sequencer Block

The powerful Motion Sequencer feature lets you dynamically change sounds by operating Parameters depending on sequences created in advance.

It provides real time control for changing sounds depending on various sequences such as Tempo, Arpeggio, or the rhythm of external connected devices.

You can assign up to eight desired Sequence types for one Lane.

You can also set up to four Lanes corresponding to the Motion Sequencer function for one Part. Up to eight Lanes can be used at the same time for the entire Performance.

The setting status (on or off) the Lanes in the entire Performance will be shown as follows.

[PERFORMANCE (HOME)]  [Motion Control]  [Motion Seq] (page 44)

Also, the parameters for each Lane are set as follows.

[PERFORMANCE (HOME)]  [EDIT]  Part selection  Element/Operator [Common]  [Motion Seq]  [Lane] (page 91)

Lane setting Sequence Patterns for the Lane

Selected Sequence setting

Lane setting

Basic Structure

Functional blocks

Tone Generator block

A/D Input block

Sequencer block

Arpeggio block

Motion Sequencer block

Effect block

Envelope Follower block

Controller block

Internal Memory

Reference

Display (touch panel) config.

Performance Play (Home)

Motion Control

Mixing

Scene

Play/Rec

Normal Part (AWM) Edit

Drum Part Edit

Normal Part (FM-X) Edit

Common/Audio Edit

Category Search

Utility

Live Set

iPhone/iPad connection

Turning the Motion Sequencer on/off

The following settings are available for turning the Motion Sequencer playback on/off.

To play the Motion Sequence when the note is	Set the “LaneSW” parameter to “On,” the “Trigger”
pressed:	parameter to “Off,” and the” Sync” parameter to “Off.”
To play the Motion Sequence when the	Set the “LaneSW” parameter to “On,” the “Trigger”
[MOTION SEQ TRIGGER] button is pressed:	parameter to “On,” and the “Sync” parameter to “Off.”

NOTE “LaneSW” and “Trigger” are set as follows.

[EDIT]  Part selection  Element/Operator [Common]  [MOTION Seq]  [Lane] (page 91)

MODX Reference Manual	17

Using the Knobs to control Motion Sequencer

By pressing the Knob Function [TONE]/[EG/FX]/[EQ]/[ARP/MS] button and selecting “ARP/MS,” you can use the Knobs 3–4 to control Motion Sequencer playback. Try this out and listen for the changes in the sound. For details regarding the effect of the Knobs 3–4, see Quick Edit (page 37).

Motion Sequencer functions which can be controlled by Knob operations

Knob 1 Knob 2 Knob 3 Knob 4

Editing Motion Sequences

You can create a custom Motion Sequence consisting of up to sixteen steps. For details about Editing, see page 93.

Parameters related to Motion Sequencer

In this instrument, Motion Sequencer is considered as a virtual controller and can be selectable in the “Source” parameter. The target parameter you want to control by Motion Sequencer is set in the “Destination” parameter. For details, see page 100.

Basic Structure

Functional blocks

Tone Generator block

A/D Input block

Sequencer block

Arpeggio block

Motion Sequencer block

Effect block

Envelope Follower block

Controller block

Internal Memory

Reference

Display (touch panel) config.

Performance Play (Home)

Motion Control

Mixing

Scene

Play/Rec

Normal Part (AWM) Edit

Drum Part Edit

Normal Part (FM-X) Edit

Common/Audio Edit

Category Search

Utility

Live Set

iPhone/iPad connection

MODX Reference Manual	18

Effect Block

This block applies effects to the output of the tone generator block as well as audio input block, processing and enhancing the sound. Effects are applied in the final stages of editing, letting you change the sound as desired.

Effect structure

System Effects—Variation and Reverb

System Effects are applied to the overall sound. With System Effects, the sound of each Part is sent to the effect according to the Effect Send Level for each Part. The processed sound (referred to as “wet”) is sent back to the mixer according to the Return Level, and output—after being mixed with the unprocessed “dry” sound. This instrument is equipped with Variation and Reverb as System Effects. In addition, you can set the Send Level from Variation to Reverb. This parameter is used to apply Reverb to the signals output from the Variation. You can get a natural effect by applying Reverb depth to the Variation sound with the same level as that of the dry sound.

Insertion Effects

Insertion Effects can be applied individually to each of specified parts before merging signals of all parts. It should be used for sounds for which you want to drastically change the character. You can set different Effect types to the Insertion Effects A and B for each Part. These settings can be made from Part Edit  [Effect] (page 75, page 136, page 150).

This synthesizer features 13 sets of Insertion Effects. They can be applied to Parts1–8 and four of the Parts 9–16 and A/D Input Part.

Master Effect

This block applies effects to the final stereo output signal of the entire sound. Multiple Effect types are available.

Element EQ

Element EQ is applied to each Element of the Normal Part (AWM2) and each key of the Drum Part. You can specify one of three different EQ shapes, including shelving and peaking.

NOTE Element EQ does not affect the Input signals from the A/D INPUT [L/MONO]/[R] jacks.

Part EQ

This EQ is applied to a Part before and after the Insertion Effect.

		Part
3-band		Insertion Effect		2-band
parametric EQ				parametric EQ
Part EQ				Part EQ

Basic Structure

Functional blocks

Tone Generator block

A/D Input block

Sequencer block

Arpeggio block

Motion Sequencer block

Effect block

Envelope Follower block

Controller block

Internal Memory

Reference

Display (touch panel) config.

Performance Play (Home)

Motion Control

Mixing

Scene

Play/Rec

Normal Part (AWM) Edit

Drum Part Edit

Normal Part (FM-X) Edit

Common/Audio Edit

Category Search

Utility

Live Set

iPhone/iPad connection

Master EQ

Master EQ is applied to the final (post-effect), overall sound of the instrument. In this EQ, all five bands can be set to peaking, with shelving being available also for the lowest and highest bands.

MODX Reference Manual	19

Effect connection

1Each EQ and Insertion Effect applied to each Part

2 Variation and Reverb related parameters

Setting: Part Edit  [Effect]  [Routing] (page 75, page 136, page 150)

Common/Audio Edit  [Effect]  [Routing] (page 169)

3 Master Effect related parameters

Setting: Common/Audio Edit  [Effect]  [Master FX] (page 172)

4 Master EQ related parameters

Setting: Common/Audio Edit  [Effect]  [Master EQ] (page 173)

NOTE Regarding the audio input signal from the A/D INPUT [L/ MONO]/[R] jacks, the effect is set in Common/Audio Edit  [Audio In].

Performance

	Part	Part EQ
		Insertion A/B

Send Level

Variation

Reverb

Variation

to Reverb

System Effect

Return Level

Master

Effect

Master EQ

About the Vocoder Effect

MODX features a Vocoder effect. Vocoder is a distinctive, “robot voice” effect which extracts the characteristic of the microphone sound and adds it to the sound via your keyboard performance. The human voice consists of sounds generated from the vocal cords, and filtered by the throat, nose and mouth. These resonant sections have specific frequency characteristics and they function effectively as a filter, creating many formants (harmonic content). The Vocoder effect extracts the filter characteristics of the voice from the microphone input and recreates the vocal formants by the use of multiple band pass filters. The machine-like ‘robot’ voice is created by passing the pitched sounds of musical instruments (such as a synthesizer sound) through the filters.

	Extracting the characteristic
Mic Input or	of the input sound
Part Output
Part Output	Creating formants	Robot-like
(Keyboard		voice
Performance)
	Vocoder

About Effect categories, Effect types, and Effect parameters

For information regarding the effect categories of this instrument and the effect types contained in their categories, see the “Effect Type List” in the Data List PDF document. For information on the effect parameters which can be set in the each effect type, see the “Effect Parameter List” in the Data List PDF document. For information on the descriptions of each effect category, each effect type, and each effect parameter, see the Synthesizer Parameters Manual PDF document.

About Preset settings

Preset settings for parameters of each effect type are provided as templates and can be selected in the Effect Type selection display. To get a desired effect sound, try first selecting one of the Presets close to your imagined sound, then change the parameters as necessary. Preset settings can be determined by setting “Preset” in each effect parameter display. For information on each effect type, see the Data List PDF document.

Basic Structure

Functional blocks

Tone Generator block

A/D Input block

Sequencer block

Arpeggio block

Motion Sequencer block

Effect block

Envelope Follower block

Controller block

Internal Memory

Reference

Display (touch panel) config.

Performance Play (Home)

Motion Control

Mixing

Scene

Play/Rec

Normal Part (AWM) Edit

Drum Part Edit

Normal Part (FM-X) Edit

Common/Audio Edit

Category Search

Utility

Live Set

iPhone/iPad connection

MODX Reference Manual	20

Envelope Follower Block

Envelope Follower is a function for detecting the envelope of the input signal waveform and modifying sounds dynamically. This function allows you to control not only Part outputs but also input signals from external devices connected to the A/D INPUT [L/MONO]/[R] jacks.

The Input source of each Envelope Follower is fixed such as Part 1 for EnvFollower 1, Part 2 for EnvFollower 2, and the Audio Part for EnvFollower AD. However, the signal output from each Envelope Follower can be another “input source” for any desired destination such as each Part or even the entire Performance. For example, you can modify the sound of Part 2 by using the Envelope Follower for Part 1 (EnvFollower 1) as the “Source.” The Envelope Follower as the “Source” and the target parameter to be controlled by the Envelope Follower (which is called “Destination”) are set in the Control Assign display (page 100).

Each Envelope Follower

EnvFollower 1

EnvFollower 2

EnvFollower MST

EnvFollower AD

Part 1			Part 2			Entire			Audio Part
						Performance
						(sixteen Parts and
						Audio Part)

Each Input source for Envelope Follower

Input signal to Envelope Follower (Fixed)

Output signal from Envelope Follower (The Destination is flexible)

Selected Envelope Follower

Signal flow of	Input sources for
Envelope Follower	Envelope Follower

[EDIT]  Common/Audio Edit [Audio In]  [Routing]  “Envelope Follower” (EnvFollower AD) [EDIT]  Common/Audio Edit  [Effect]  [Routing]  “Envelope Follower” (EnvFollower MST) [EDIT]  Part selection  Element/Operator [Common]  [Effect]  [Routing]  “Envelope Follower” (EnvFollower 1–16)

Basic Structure

Functional blocks

Tone Generator block

A/D Input block

Sequencer block

Arpeggio block

Motion Sequencer block

Effect block

Envelope Follower block

Controller block

Internal Memory

Reference

Display (touch panel) config.

Performance Play (Home)

Motion Control

Mixing

Scene

Play/Rec

Normal Part (AWM) Edit

Drum Part Edit

Normal Part (FM-X) Edit

Common/Audio Edit

Category Search

Utility

Live Set

iPhone/iPad connection

MODX Reference Manual	21

Controller Block

This block consists of the keyboard, Pitch Bend and Modulation Wheels, Assignable Switches, Knobs, Control Sliders and Super Knob. By operating these controllers, you can transmit MIDI messages to the tone generator block to play and modify sounds, or to the DAW software to further control the sounds.

Keyboard

The keyboard transmits the note on/off messages to the Tone Generator Block (for sounding) and Sequencer Block (for recording). You can change the note range of the keyboard in octaves by using the OCTAVE [-]/[+] buttons, transpose the notes by using the OCTAVE [-]/[+] buttons while holding down the [SHIFT] button, and set how the actual velocity is generated according to the strength with which you play notes.

Basic Structure

Functional blocks

Tone Generator block

A/D Input block

Sequencer block

Arpeggio block

Motion Sequencer block

Effect block

Envelope Follower block

Controller block

Internal Memory

Pitch Bend wheel

Use the Pitch Bend wheel to bend notes up (roll the wheel away from you) or down (roll the wheel toward you) while playing the keyboard. Roll the wheel upward/downward to bend the pitch upward/downward. This wheel is self-centering and will automatically return to normal pitch when released. The Pitch Bend Range setting can be changed in Part Edit  [Part Settings]  [Pitch] (page 68). Functions other than Pitch Bend can be assigned to the Pitch Bend wheel in the Part Edit  [Mod/Control]  [Control Assign] (page 100, page 153).

Pitch up

Pitch down

Modulation wheel
Even though the Modulation wheel is conventionally used to apply								Maximum
vibrato to the sound, many of the preset Performances have other
functions and effects assigned to the wheel.
The more you move this wheel up, the greater the effect that is applied
to the sound. To avoid accidentally applying effects to the current
Performance, make sure the Modulation wheel is set to minimum								Minimum
before you start playing. Various functions can be assigned to the
Modulation wheel in Part Edit  [Mod/Control]  [Control Assign]
(page 100, page 153).

Assignable Switches

According to the XA (Expanded Articulation) Control settings (page 6) in Element Edit  [Osc/Tune] (page 107), you can call up specific Elements of the current Part by pressing each of these buttons during your keyboard performance. You can select how the on/off status of these buttons is switched in Common/ Audio Edit  [General] (page 159). Furthermore, you can assign various functions (other than calling up specific Elements) to these buttons in Part Edit  [Mod/Control]  [Control Assign] (page 100, page 153).

Knobs and Control Sliders

These knobs and sliders let you change various aspects of the Part’s sound in real time—while you play. For instructions on using the knobs and control sliders, see the Owner’s Manual. For instructions on using the Knobs 1–4 (5–8), see “Quick Edit” (page 35).

Super Knob

The Super Knob lets you simultaneously control the parameters common to all Parts (Assign 1–8) which are assigned to the eight knobs. For instructions on using the Super Knob, see the Owner’s Manual. For the editable setting values for the Super Knob, see the Super Knob display (page 45). Also, for instructions on setting the Assign 1–8 controls, see the Control Assign display (page 166) for the Common/Audio Edit.

Reference

Display (touch panel) config.

Performance Play (Home)

Motion Control

Mixing

Scene

Play/Rec

Normal Part (AWM) Edit

Drum Part Edit

Normal Part (FM-X) Edit

Common/Audio Edit

Category Search

Utility

Live Set

iPhone/iPad connection

MODX Reference Manual	22

Internal Memory

The MODX creates a variety of different kinds of data, including Performances, Live Sets, and Songs. This section describes how to maintain the various types of data and use the memory devices/media for storing them.

		Internal Memory
	Recall	Compare	Preset Memory
	Buffer	Buffer	• Preset Performance
	Excluding	Excluding	• Arpeggio
			• Motion Sequence
	Master and	Master and
			• Audition Phrase
	Utility settings	Utility settings
			• Waveform
			• Live Set
			• Curve
			• Micro Tuning

Data communication between this synthesizer and an external device

Internal data communication

MIDI instrument or computer

DAW software

Edit Buffer

User Memory

Bulk Dump

using

Store

USB flash drive

• Performance Edit

For User

File extension “.X8A”

button)store

by(executed

• Motion Sequence Edit

• User Curve

MOTIF XS format

• User Performance

MOTIF XF format

• User Arpeggio

File extensions “.X3A,” “.X3V,”

• User Motion Sequence

• User Curve Edit

“.X3G,” and “.X3W”

• Live Set Edit

• User Live Set

File extensions “.X0A,” “.X0V,”

• User Micro Tuning Edit

“.X0G,” and “.X0W”

• User Waveform Edit

• User Micro Tuning

Load/Save

MOXF format

• User Waveform

File extensions “.X6A,” “.X6V,”

“.X6G,” and “.X6W”

• Utility

• Quick Setup

• Utility

• User Audition Phrase

File extension “.X8U”

• Quick Setup

MONTAGE format

File extension “.X7U”

For Library

File extensions “.X8L”

MONTAGE format

• Song

Song

File extension “.X7L”

File extensions “.MID”

File extensions “.WAV”

Audio Record/Playback

File extensions “.WAV” “.AIF”

Basic Structure

Functional blocks

Tone Generator block

A/D Input block

Sequencer block

Arpeggio block

Motion Sequencer block

Effect block

Envelope Follower block

Controller block

Internal Memory

Reference

Display (touch panel) config.

Performance Play (Home)

Motion Control

Mixing

Scene

Play/Rec

Normal Part (AWM) Edit

Drum Part Edit

Normal Part (FM-X) Edit

Common/Audio Edit

Category Search

Utility

Live Set

iPhone/iPad connection

Preset Memory

Preset Memory is memory designed specifically for reading out data such as Preset Performance, Arpeggio, and Audition Phrase. You cannot overwrite the data in Preset Memory.

Edit buffer

The edit buffer is the memory location for edited data of these types: Performance, Live Set, and Song. Although the edit buffer is designed specifically for data writing and data reading, the data contained in the edit buffer is lost when the power is turned off. You should always store edited data to User memory before editing new performance or before turning off the power. Data other than Performance and Motion Sequence are automatically stored.

User memory

User data edited in the Edit buffer and utility settings for the entire system are stored in the dedicated area in the User memory. Up to eight Library files (.X8L) read from the USB flash drive are loaded in the dedicated area in the User memory.

This is read-write memory and the data will be kept even after the power is turned off.

MODX Reference Manual	23

Recall buffer and Compare buffer

If you’ve selected another Performance without storing the one you were editing, you can recall your original edits, since the edit buffer’s contents are stored on backup memory, called the Recall buffer. Also, the instrument has a Compare buffer in which the sound settings prior to editing will temporarily be reinstated for comparison purposes. You can switch between the just-edited sound and its unedited condition, and hear how your edits affect the sound. Both of these are read-write memory types. However, you should make sure to store the sequence data before turning off the power, because any sequence data you’ve created will be lost when the power is turned off. For instructions on using the Compare function, see the Owner’s Manual.

Basic Structure

Functional blocks

Tone Generator block

A/D Input block

Sequencer block

Arpeggio block

Motion Sequencer block

Effect block

Envelope Follower block

Controller block

Internal Memory

Reference

Display (touch panel) config.

Performance Play (Home)

Motion Control

Mixing

Scene

Play/Rec

Normal Part (AWM) Edit

Drum Part Edit

Normal Part (FM-X) Edit

Common/Audio Edit

Category Search

Utility

Live Set

iPhone/iPad connection

MODX Reference Manual	24

Reference

Performance

Edit

Search

Utility

Live Set

Reference

Display (touch panel)

Display (touch panel) configuration

This section explains the navigation bar which is common to all types of displays.

1	2	3	Navigation bar	5	6	7	8
			4

1HOME icon

Moves to the Performance Play display (page 27).

2EXIT icon

Functions same as the [EXIT] button on the panel. Press this icon to exit from the current display and return to the previous level in the hierarchy.

3[INFORMATION] area

Displays helpful information, including the currently selected display name.

4EFFECT icon

Touch the icon to call up the Effect Switch display (page 209). The icon turns off when any of the Effect blocks (Insertion, System or Master) is off.

5QUICK SETUP icon

Displays the settings of Local Control ON/OFF and MIDI IN/OUT.

The keyboard-shaped icon lights up when Local Control is set to ON and turns off when Local Control is set to OFF.

When MIDI is set as the MIDI IN/OUT setting, a MIDI connector-shaped icon appears. When USB is set as the MIDI IN/OUT setting, a USB connector-shaped icon appears. Touch the desired icon to call up the corresponding Quick Setup display (page 188).

6TEMPO SETTINGS icon

Displays the tempo of the currently selected Performance. Touch the icon to call up the Tempo Settings display (page 207).

7LIVE SET icon

Touch the icon to call up the Live Set display (page 212).

8UTILITY icon

Touch the icon to call up the last opened display among the Utility displays.

MODX Reference Manual	25

Reference	Performance	Edit	Search	Utility	Live Set
9					Display (touch panel)
Scroll buttons	Display All button	Display All

9Pop-up List

Displays setting values for parameters. When the setting values are displayed in multiple pages, you will need to use the Scroll buttons to scroll through the pages or the Display All button to display all of the setting values.

MODX Reference Manual	26

Reference

Performance

Edit

Search

Utility

Live Set

Performance Play (Home)

Performance

From the Performance Play display you can play a selected Performance and edit some of the Performance-related settings.

Home

Press the [PERFORMANCE (HOME)] button

Home

Motion Control

Overview

Quick Edit

Arpeggio

Motion Seq

Operation	or			Super Knob
	Touch the [HOME] icon			Knob Auto
	^	1	2	Mixing
				Scene
				Play / Rec
				MIDI
			3	Audio
			4

5						6
7
		8		9

) ! @

#$ %

1 Performance name

Indicates the currently selected Performance name. Touching the parameter calls up the menu for Category Search, Edit, and Recall.

NOTE Once you edit any parameter in the selected Performance, a blue flag icon appears at right in the Performance Name.

2Part indicator

When the cursor is on the Performance name or on Parts 1–8, this indicates whether Parts 9–16 are used or not.

When the cursor is on Parts 9–16, it indicates whether Parts 1–8 are used or not. If Parts 9–16 are not in use, this indicator is not shown.

3Flag

Indicates the tone generation attributes of the currently selected Performance. (See chart below.)

Flag	Definition
AWM2	Performance comprised only of AWM2 Parts
FM-X	Performance comprised only of FM-X Parts
AWM2+FM-X	Performance comprised of both AWM2 and FM-X Parts
MC	Performance featuring Motion Control
SSS	Performance featuring Seamless Sound Switching

4Knob functions

Indicates the functions currently assigned to the Knobs 1–4 (5–8).

MODX Reference Manual	27

Reference

Performance

Edit

Search

Utility

Live Set

5 Type/Name Switch

Switches between the displays of Part Type/Category and Part Name.

Settings: Type, Name

6Part Types / Part Names

Indicates the Part types and categories or the Part names.

Touching the parameter calls up the menu for Category Search, Edit, and Copy. To add another Part, touch the “+” icon.

7Common Motion Sequencer switch

Determines whether the Motion Sequencer of the Common/AD Parts is on or off. When all Lane switches of the Common/AD Parts are off, this switch is not shown.

Settings: Off, On

8Part Arpeggio On/Off switch

Determines whether the Arpeggio of each Part is on or off. When the Arpeggio and the Arpeggio Hold are set to on, “Arp Hold On” is displayed.

NOTE You can turn the Arpeggio Hold for the Part on or off by simultaneously holding down the [SHIFT] button and touching this switch.

Settings: Off, On

9Part Motion Sequencer switch

Determines whether the Motion Sequencer of each Part is on or off. When all Lane switches of the Part are off, this switch is not shown.

Settings: Off, On

)Note Limit

Determines the lowest and highest notes in the Part’s note range. For example, setting a Note Limit of “C5–C4” lets you hear the Part by playing notes in the two ranges of C-2 to C4 and C5 to G8; notes played between C4 and C5 have no sound. For details about the Note Limit setting, see the Owner’s Manual.

Settings: C -2 – G8

!Keyboard Control switch

Determines whether the Keyboard Control for each Part is on or off. When this switch is set to off, the Part will not sound even you play the keyboard (unless the Part is selected).

Settings: Off, On

@ Switching Mute on/off for Parts

Determines whether the Mute for each Part is on or off.

Settings: Off, On

# Switching Solo on/off for Parts

Determines whether the Solo for each Part is on or off.

Settings: Off, On

$ Volume of Parts

Determines the Volume for the Part.

Settings: 0–127

NOTE When the triangle marks for the Volume are shown in blue, the volume change created by the control sliders is not reflected to the overall sound. When the value changed by the control slider reaches the value shown as a blue triangle, the triangle mark changes to white, and the volume change created by the control sliders are reflected to the overall sound.

%Meter

Indicates the audio output level of the Part.

Performance

Home

Motion Control

Overview

Quick Edit

Arpeggio

Motion Seq

Super Knob

Knob Auto

Mixing

Scene

Play / Rec

MIDI

Audio

MODX Reference Manual	28

Reference

Performance

Edit

Search

Utility

Live Set

^View

Determines whether the detailed information of each Part is displayed (On) or not displayed (Off). The displayed information differs depending on the cursor position or the Control function settings.

Settings: Off, On

NOTE When the cursor is on the Performance name on the Performance Play (Home) display, you can also switch the information views by pressing the [PERFORMANCE (HOME)] button.

This section explains when “View” is turned on.

 Element view

This appears only when the currently selected Part is the Normal Part (AWM2), and Motion Control  Overview  Slider Function [Elem/Op Control] button is ON.

Performance

Home

Motion Control

Overview

Quick Edit

Arpeggio

Motion Seq

Super Knob

Knob Auto

Mixing

Scene

Play / Rec

MIDI

Audio

Element Level			Element Switch

Element SW (Element switch)

Determines whether each Element is active or not.

Settings: Off, On

Element Level

Determines the output level of the Element.

Settings: 0–127

MODX Reference Manual	29

Reference

Performance

Edit

Search

Utility

Live Set

 Drum Key view

This appears only when the currently selected Part is the Drum Part, and Motion Control  Overview  Slider Function [Elem/Op Control] button is ON.

Drum Key Level

Drum Key Level

Determines the output level of the Drum Key.

Settings: 0–127

Performance

Home

Motion Control

Overview

Quick Edit

Arpeggio

Motion Seq

Super Knob

Knob Auto

Mixing

Scene

Play / Rec

MIDI

Audio

MODX Reference Manual	30