Yamaha S90 ES User Manual

SPECIAL MESSAGE SECTION

PRODUCT SAFETY MARKINGS: Yamaha electronic products

may have either labels similar to the graphics shown below or molded/stamped facsimiles of these graphics on the enclosure. The explanation of these graphics appears on this page. Please observe all cautions indicated on this page and those indicated in the safety instruction section.

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK.

DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK).

NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.

REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.

The exclamation point within the equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the product.

Battery Notice: This product MAY contain a small non-rechargable

battery which (if applicable) is soldered in place. The average life span of this type of battery is approximately ﬁve years. When replacement becomes necessary, contact a qualiﬁed service representative to perform the replacement.

Warning: Do not attempt to recharge, disassemble, or incinerate this

type of battery. Keep all batteries away from children. Dispose of used batteries promptly and as regulated by applicable laws. Note: In some areas, the servicer is required by law to return the defective parts. However, you do have the option of having the servicer dispose of these parts for you.

Disposal Notice: Should this product become damaged beyond

repair, or for some reason its useful life is considered to be at an end, please observe all local, state, and federal regulations that relate to the disposal of products that contain lead, batteries, plastics, etc.

NOTICE: Service charges incurred due to lack of knowledge relating

to how a function or effect works (when the unit is operating as designed) are not covered by the manufacturer’s warranty, and are therefore the owners responsibility. Please study this manual carefully and consult your dealer before requesting service.

NAME PLATE LOCATION: The graphic below indicates the

location of the name plate. The model number, serial number, power requirements, etc., are located on this plate. You should record the model number, serial number, and the date of purchase in the spaces provided below and retain this manual as a permanent record of your purchase.

The lightning ﬂash with arrowhead symbol, within the equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the product’s enclosure that may be of sufﬁcient magnitude to constitute a risk of electrical shock.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: All Yamaha electronic products are tested

and approved by an independent safety testing laboratory in order that you may be sure that when it is properly installed and used in its normal and customary manner, all foreseeable risks have been eliminated. DO NOT modify this unit or commission others to do so unless speciﬁcally authorized by Yamaha. Product performance and/ or safety standards may be diminished. Claims ﬁled under the expressed warranty may be denied if the unit is/has been modiﬁed. Implied warranties may also be affected.

SPECIFICATIONS SUBJECT TO CHANGE: The information

contained in this manual is believed to be correct at the time of printing. However, Yamaha reserves the right to change or modify any of the speciﬁcations without notice or obligation to update existing units.

ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES: Yamaha strives to produce products

that are both user safe and environmentally friendly. We sincerely believe that our products and the production methods used to produce them, meet these goals. In keeping with both the letter and the spirit of the law, we want you to be aware of the following:

Model

Serial No.

Purchase Date

92-469- ➀ (rear)

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

INFORMATION RELATING TO PERSONAL INJURY, ELECTRICAL SHOCK,

AND FIRE HAZARD POSSIBILITIES HAS BEEN INCLUDED IN THIS LIST.

WARNING- When using any electrical or electronic product,

basic precautions should always be followed. These precautions include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. Read all Safety Instructions, Installation Instructions, Special

Message Section items, and any Assembly Instructions found in this manual BEFORE making any connections, including connection to the main supply.

2. Do not attempt to service this product beyond that described in

the user-maintenance instructions. All other servicing should be referred to qualiﬁed service personnel.

3. Main Power Supply Veriﬁcation: Yamaha products are

manufactured speciﬁcally for the supply voltage in the area where they are to be sold. If you should move, or if any doubt exists about the supply voltage in your area, please contact your dealer for supply voltage veriﬁcation and (if applicable) instructions. The required supply voltage is printed on the name plate. For name plate location, please refer to the graphic found in the Special Message Section of this manual.

4. DANGER-Grounding Instructions: This product must be

grounded and therefore has been equipped with a three pin attachment plug. If this product should malfunction, the ground pin provides a path of low resistance for electrical current, reducing the risk of electrical shock. If your wall socket will not accommodate this type plug, contact an electrician to have the outlet replaced in accordance with local electrical codes. Do NOT modify the plug or change the plug to a different type!

5. WARNING: Do not place this product or any other objects on

the power cord or place it in a position where anyone could walk on, trip over, or roll anything over power or connecting cords of any kind. The use of an extension cord is not recommended! If you must use an extension cord, the minimum wire size for a 25’ cord (or less) is 18 AWG. NOTE: The smaller the AWG number, the larger the current handling capacity. For longer extension cords, consult a local electrician.

6. Ventilation: Electronic products, unless speciﬁcally designed for

enclosed installations, should be placed in locations that do not interfere with proper ventilation. If instructions for enclosed installations are not provided, it must be assumed that unobstructed ventilation is required.

8. This product was NOT designed for use in wet/damp locations

and should not be used near water or exposed to rain. Examples of wet /damp locations are; near a swimming pool, spa, tub, sink, or wet basement.

9. This product should be used only with the components supplied

or; a cart,rack, or stand that is recommended by the manufacturer. If a cart, rack, or stand is used, please observe all safety markings and instructions that accompany the accessory product.

10. The power supply cord (plug) should be disconnected from

the outlet when electronic products are to be left unused for extended periods of time. Cords should also be disconnected when there is a high probability of lightning and/or electrical storm activity.

11. Care should be taken that objects do not fall and liquids are

not spilled into the enclosure through any openings that may exist.

12. Electrical/electronic products should be serviced by a

qualiﬁed service person when:

a. The power supply cord has been damaged; or b. Objects have fallen, been inserted, or liquids have been spilled

into the enclosure through openings; or c. The product has been exposed to rain; or d. The product does not operate, exhibits a marked change in

performance; or e. The product has been dropped, or the enclosure of the product

has been damaged.

13. This product, either alone or in combination with an ampliﬁer

and headphones or speaker/s, may be capable of producing sound levels that could cause permanent hearing loss. DO NOT operate for a long period of time at a high volume level or at a level that is uncomfortable. If you experience any hearing loss or ringing in the ears, you should consult an audiologist. IMPORTANT: The louder the sound, the shorter the time period before damage occurs.

14. Some Yamaha products may have benches and/or accessory

mounting ﬁxtures that are either supplied as a part of the product or as optional accessories. Some of these items are designed to be dealer assembled or installed. Please make sure that benches are stable and any optional ﬁxtures (where applicable) are well secured BEFORE using. Benches supplied by Yamaha are designed for seating only. No other uses are recommended.

7. Temperature considerations: Electronic products should be

installed in locations that do not seriously contribute to their operating temperature. Placement of this product close to heat sources such as; radiators, heat registers etc., should be avoided.

PLEASE KEEP THIS MANUAL

92-469-3

PRECAUTIONS

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY BEFORE PROCEEDING

* Please keep this manual in a safe place for future reference.

WARNING

Always follow the basic precautions listed below to avoid the possibility of serious injury or even death from electrical shock, short-circuiting, damages, ﬁre or other hazards. These precautions include, but are not limited to, the following:

Power supply/Power cord

• Only use the voltage speciﬁed as correct for the instrument. The required voltage is printed on the name plate of the instrument.

• Check the electric plug periodically and remove any dirt or dust which may have accumulated on it.

• Use only the supplied power cord/plug.

• Do not place the power cord near heat sources such as heaters or radiators, and do not excessively bend or otherwise damage the cord, place heavy objects on it, or place it in a position where anyone could walk on, trip over, or roll anything over it.

• Be sure to connect to an appropriate outlet with a protective grounding connection. Improper grounding can result in electrical shock.

Do not open

• This instrument contains no user-serviceable parts. Do not attempt to disassemble or modify the internal components in any way.

Water warning

• Do not expose the instrument to rain, use it near water or in damp or wet conditions, or place containers on it containing liquids which might spill into any openings.

• Never insert or remove an electric plug with wet hands.

Fire warning

• Do not put burning items, such as candles, on the unit. A burning item may fall over and cause a ﬁre.

If you notice any abnormality

• If the power cord or plug becomes frayed or damaged, or if there is a sudden loss of sound during use of the instrument, or if any unusual smells or smoke should appear to be caused by it, immediately turn off the power switch, disconnect the electric plug from the outlet, and have the instrument inspected by qualiﬁed Yamaha service personnel.

CAUTION

Always follow the basic precautions listed below to avoid the possibility of physical injury to you or others, or damage to the instrument or other property. These precautions include, but are not limited to, the following:

Power supply/Power cord

• Always connect the three-pin attachment plug to a properly grounded power source. (For more information about the main power supply, see page 8.)

• When removing the electric plug from the instrument or an outlet, always hold the plug itself and not the cord. Pulling by the cord can damage it.

• Remove the electric plug from the outlet when the instrument is not to be used for extended periods of time, or during electrical storms.

• Do not connect the instrument to an electrical outlet using a multiple-connector. Doing so can result in lower sound quality, or possibly cause overheating in the outlet.

Location

• Do not expose the instrument to excessive dust or vibrations, or extreme cold or heat (such as in direct sunlight, near a heater, or in a car during the day) to prevent the possibility of panel disﬁguration or damage to the internal components.

• Do not use the instrument in the vicinity of a TV, radio, stereo equipment, mobile phone, or other electric devices. Otherwise, the instrument, TV, or radio may generate noise.

• Do not place the instrument in an unstable position where it might accidentally fall over.

• Before moving the instrument, remove all connected cables.

• When setting up the instrument, make sure that the AC outlet you are using is easily accessible. If some trouble or malfunction occurs, immediately turn off the power switch and disconnect the plug from the outlet.

• Do not place objects in front of the instrument's air vent, since this may prevent adequate ventilation of the internal components, and possibly result in the instrument overheating.

(2)-10 1/2

Connections

• Before connecting the instrument to other electronic components, turn off the power for all components. Before turning the power on or off for all components, set all volume levels to minimum. Also, be sure to set the volumes of all components at their minimum levels and gradually raise the volume controls while playing the instrument to set the desired listening level.

Maintenance

• When cleaning the instrument, use a soft, dry cloth. Do not use paint thinners, solvents, cleaning ﬂuids, or chemical-impregnated wiping cloths.

Handling caution

• Do not insert a ﬁnger or hand in any gaps on the instrument.

• Never insert or drop paper, metallic, or other objects into the gaps on the keyboard. If this happens, turn off the power immediately and unplug the power cord from the AC outlet. Then have the instrument inspected by qualiﬁed Yamaha service personnel.

• Do not place vinyl, plastic or rubber objects on the instrument, since this might discolor the panel or keyboard.

• Do not rest your weight on, or place heavy objects on the instrument, and do not use excessive force on the buttons, switches or connectors.

• Do not operate the instrument for a long period of time at a high or uncomfortable volume level, since this can cause permanent hearing loss. If you experience any hearing loss or ringing in the ears, consult a physician.

Saving data

Saving and backing up your data

• The edited settings are lost when you turn off the power to the instrument without saving. Make sure to save important data to internal (User) memory (see page 126).

• Saved data may be lost due to malfunction or incorrect operation. Save important data to a USB storage device.

• Never attempt to turn off the power while data is being written to internal memory (while an “Executing...” or “Please keep power on” message is shown). Turning the power off in this state results in loss of all user data and and may cause the system to freeze. This means that this synthesizer may not be able to start up properly, even when turning the power on next time.

Backing up the USB storage device

•To protect against loss through media damage, we recommend that you save your important data onto two USB storage devices.

Yamaha cannot be held responsible for damage caused by improper use or modiﬁcations to the instrument, or data that is lost or destroyed.

Always turn the power off when the instrument is not in use.

(2)-10 2/2

Introduction

Congratulations and thank you for your purchase of the Yamaha S90 ES Music Production Synthesizer! You now own one of the best-sounding, most versatile, and most powerful music production instruments on the planet.

We strove to put virtually all our synthesizer technology and music making know-how into one instrument—and we succeeded. The new S90 ES not only gives you the latest and greatest sounds and rhythms (as well as the ability to create your own), it gives you powerful, easy-to-use tools for playing, combining and controlling these dynamic sounds/rhythms—in real time, as you perform!

Take time to look through this manual carefully. It's packed with important information on how to get the most from this amazing instrument.

Dive in now and enjoy!

Accessories

The following items have been included with your S90ES. Check to see that you have everything listed here.

❏ Power cord ❏ Owner’s Manual (this document) ❏ Data List ❏ Sticker label for optional mLAN16E expansion board

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

This product incorporates and bundles computer programs and contents in which Yamaha owns copyrights or with respect to which it has license to use others’ copyrights. Such copyrighted materials include, without limitation, all computer software, style ﬁles, MIDI ﬁles, WAVE data, musical scores and sound recordings. Any unauthorized use of such programs and contents outside of personal use is not permitted under relevant laws. Any violation of copyright has legal consequences. DON’T MAKE, DISTRIBUTE OR USE ILLEGAL COPIES.

This device is capable of using various types/formats of music data, and it optimizes the data in advance to the proper format for use with the device. As a result, the data may not be played back precisely as the creators or composers originally intended.

Copying of the commercially available musical data including but not limited to MIDI data and/or audio data is strictly prohibited except for your personal use.

• Windows is the registered trademarks of Microsoft

• Apple and Macintosh are trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

• The company names and product names in this Owner’s Manual are the trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.

Owner’s Manual

Corporation.

Table of Contents

Introduction.............................................................6

Accessories.............................................................6

Setting up and Playing ...........................................8

Power supply connections........................................... 8

Playing the keyboard ................................................. 10

Modes ........................................................................ 12

Basic instructions....................................................... 13

Main Features ............................................................ 14

Using the Owner’s Manual......................................... 15

The Controls & Connectors 16

Front Panel ................................................................. 16

Rear Panel.................................................................. 18

Using USB storage devices....................................... 20

Basic Operation 21

Restoring the Factory-programmed S90 ES .............. 21

Functions of the MODE buttons ................................. 22

Functions and Sub-Functions .................................... 23

Selecting a Program .................................................. 23

About the editing functions ........................................ 25

Confirmation Message ............................................... 26

Information Display .................................................... 27

Note (Key) settings .................................................... 27

Naming....................................................................... 27

Basic Structure 108

Internal Structure (System Overview)....................... 108

Maintaining data....................................................... 126

Reference 127

Voice mode .............................................................. 127

Performance mode................................................... 149

Multi mode................................................................ 157

Multi Voice mode...................................................... 161

Sequence Play mode ............................................... 162

Utility mode .............................................................. 163

File mode.................................................................. 168

Master mode ............................................................172

Appendix 176

Information Displays................................................. 176

Display Messages....................................................178

About MIDI ...............................................................180

Installing Optional Hardware.................................... 184

Specifications...........................................................188

Troubleshooting .......................................................189

Application Index ..................................................... 193

Index ........................................................................198

Quick Guide 29

Playing the Demo Songs......................................29

Playing the S90 ES................................................30

Voice Play mode ........................................................ 30

Performance Play mode............................................. 34

Using the Arpeggio feature........................................ 39

Using the Controllers on the S90 ES.......................... 41

Editing a Program.................................................44

Editing a Voice ........................................................... 44

Editing a Performance ............................................... 53

Using the Controllers—Advanced Course .........59

Controllers supported by the S90 ES......................... 59

Connecting the Computer and MIDI devices......63

Connections ............................................................... 63

Creating a Song with the Multi mode......................... 70

Using the S90 ES with computer software................. 77

Using mLAN............................................................... 88

Creating Your Original Program Set

(Master mode)........................................................90

Playing back MIDI files

(Sequence Play mode)..........................................96

Using the Plug-in Boards.....................................99

Tips.......................................................................104

Owner’s Manual

Power supply connections

Setting up and Playing

Power supply connections

1. Make sure that the instrument’s POWER switch on the rear panel is at the OFF position.

POWER

OFF

2. Connect the supplied power cord to the AC INLET on the instrument’s rear panel.

3. Connect the other end of the power cord to an AC outlet. Make sure your S90 ES meets the

voltage requirement for the country or region in which it is being used.

Power Switch

AC INLET

Power cord (included)

WARNING

Make sure your S90 ES is rated for the AC voltage supplied in the area in which it is to be used (as listed on the rear panel). Connecting the unit to the wrong AC supply can cause serious damage to the internal circuitry and may even pose a shock hazard!

WARNING

Use only the AC power cord supplied with the S90 ES. If the supplied cord is lost or damaged and needs to be replaced, contact your Yamaha dealer. The use of an inappropriate replacement can pose a ﬁre and shock hazard!

WARNING

The type of AC power cord provided with the S90 ES may be different depending on the country in which it is purchased (a third prong may be provided for grounding purposes). Improper connection of the grounding conductor can create the risk of electrical shock. Do NO T modify the plug pr o vided with the S90 ES. If the plug will not ﬁt the outlet, have a proper outlet installed by a qualiﬁed electrician. Do not use a plug adapter which defeats the grounding conductor.

Owner’s Manual

Connecting the speakers or pair of headphones

Powered speaker (Left)

Powered speaker (Right)

Headphones

OUTPUT L/MONO

OUTPUT R

PHONES

S90 ES

MASTER VOLUME

MUSIC PRODUCTION SYNTHESIZER

POWER

ON!!

1 2 3

MIDI master

S90 ES Audio equipment (ﬁrst mixer, then ampliﬁer)

Since the S90 ES has no built-in speakers, you will need to monitor the sound of the instrument by using external equipment. Connect a set of headphones, powered speakers, or other playback equipment as required.

Power supply connections

Turning the power on

Make sure the volume settings of the S90 ES and external devices are turned down to the minimum.

Turn the power on by pressing the [POWER] switch on the S90 ES rear panel, then turn the power on the ampliﬁers.

Connecting MIDI devices or a Mixer

Make sure that all volume settings are turned down all the way to the minimum. Then turn on the every device in your setup in the order of MIDI masters (controllers), MIDI slaves (receivers), then audio equipment (mixers, ampliﬁers, speakers, etc.). When powering down the setup, ﬁrst turn down the volume of each audio device, then switch off each device in the reverse order (ﬁrst audio devices, then MIDI).

Owner’s Manual

Playing the keyboard

Adjusting the sound and the display contrast

Adjust the volume levels of the S90 ES and the connected ampliﬁer/speaker system. If the display is not easily visible, use the Contrast control to adjust for optimum visibility.

Adjust the volume with the MASTER VOLUME slider.

MASTER VOLUME

Now that you’ve set up the S90 ES properly, you’re ready to begin playing it.

n When you are ready to turn off the S90 ES, make sure to switch off the power of the external device (or lower its volume)

before switching off the S90 ES.

Adjust the display contrast with the Contrast control.

SF1

Contrast control

Playing the keyboard

Playing the sounds

Try playing some of the realistic and dynamic S90 ES sounds from the keyboard now. When you turn the power on following the directions in “Power supply connections” (page 8), the display below appears.

n In the default settings, the Master mode is selected. For details about the modes, refer to the section “Modes” on page 12.

Indicates that the Master mode is selected.

In this condition you can play the keyboard and hear the sounds of the selected program. When the instrument is turned on, the “Wide River” program—featuring a natural, mellow piano sound with a rhythmic arpeggio and ambient synth—is automatically called up.

Notice the indication “Performance:USER1:001(A01)” at the top right of the display. This indicates that Performance 001 in User bank 1 is currently selected. A “Performance” is one of the types of programs of the S90 ES. As described below, the instrument also features other types: Voices and Multis.

n For details about Banks, see page 30. Please note that Performances and Multis have only User Banks (no other banks are

available).

Indicates the type of selected program.

Indicates the name and number of selected program.

Owner’s Manual

Selecting and playing the sounds

For playing the keyboard

Voice:

This program contains a basic instrument sound, such as a piano, guitar, bass guitar, drum kit, etc.

Performance:

This program allows you to combine several Voices together—either in a richly textured layer, or separately (as in different sections of the keyboard) for playing several different parts simultaneously.

For creating music of multiple parts

Multi:

This program allows you to play multiple tracks from an external sequencer, using many different Voices simultaneously.

DEC/NO INC/YES

Decreases number

Increases number

Decreases number

The S90 ES provides three different types of programs for playing the sounds: Voices, Performances, and Multis. The basic difference among these programs is in their use—for playing the keyboard, or for creating music with multiple parts.

You can choose from 128 different Voices, Performances, and Multis in the Master mode. To change the desired Master number, use the [INC/ YES] button, [DEC/NO] button, or the Data dial.

Playing the keyboard

Change the Master number, and then try playing the various Voices or Performance types. When a Voice is assigned to the selected Master number, “Voice” will appear at the top of the display. When a Performance is assigned, “Performance” will appear in the display.

n Although a Multi can be used for playing the keyboard, it is primarily intended for creating, recording and playback of multi-part

music. For details about using this function, see page 70.

As you play the various Voices and Performances, notice the differences between them—especially how some Performances sound exceptionally rich and more complex than Voices.

Here, we’ve introduced the operations in the Master mode that is called up ﬁr st when turning the power on. The S90 ES has other modes of operation as well. In the next section, we’ll explain about the modes of the S90 ES and how they are used.

Owner’s Manual

Modes

There are several operation modes in the S90 ES, and they can be selected by using the six mode buttons. The use of the individual modes depends on your particular musical application. For playing the keyboard conventionally, the Voice or Performance mode should be used. If you’re creating music, particularly multipart arrangements, use the Multi mode and Sequence Play mode. To make global settings for the instrument and back up your important data, use the Utility and File modes. A special Master mode is also included for instantly calling up desired modes and related settings together in one button press, without having to ﬁrst select a mode.

Playing the keyboard

using a Voice

Voice mode

[VOICE] button

The S90 ES has a wealth of high-quality, dynamic sounds—also referred to as “Voices. ” You can play these Voices—one Voice at a time—from the keyboard in the Voice mode. The S90 ES also lets you create your own original Voices.

Playing the keyboard using multiple Voices

Performance mode [PERFORM] button

In the Performance mode, you can play several Voices together in a layer, or play different Voices from separate ranges of the keyboard. Each of these combinations of Voices is called a “Performance.” This mode lets you create richly textured, layered sounds or play two different parts simultaneously—for example, piano and bass guitar—and is particularly useful when performing solo.

VOICE

PERFORM

MASTER

1 2 3

MULTI/ SEQ PLAY

FILE UTILITY

4 5 6

EDIT

COMPARE

REMOTE

Creating original

JOB STORE

EFFECT BYPASS

ARPEGGIO

program sets

Master mode

[MASTER] button

The Master mode can be used in two ways:

• Storing your favorite programs

This lets you register settings that you often use in the Voice, Performance, or Multi mode, and instantly recall the mode and custom settings together in a single button press, without having to ﬁrst select a mode.

• Playing as a master keyboard

This lets you divide the keyboard into four separate sections—just as if you were playing four different MIDI keyboards.

Recording via an

external sequencer

Multi mode

[MULTI/SEQ PLAY] button

The Multi mode lets you use the S90 ES as a multi-timbral tone generator for sequencer song playback. By assigning a different Voice to each track in a song ﬁle on your external sequencer, you can play back complex multipart ensemble recordings.

Playing back MIDI ﬁles

SMF (Standard MIDI File) format only

Sequence Play mode

[MULTI/SEQ PLAY] button

In the Sequence Play mode, you can play back song data created on an external sequencer, using the S90 ES as a multi-part tone generator. Multiple SMF ﬁles can be played in order, and ﬁles saved to a USB storage device can be played back directly without having to load the data to the S90 ES.

n Pressing the [MULTI/SEQ PLAY] button toggles between the Multi mode and Sequence Play mode.

Backing up data

File mode

[FILE] button

The File mode lets you save your S90 ES data to the USB storage device, and allows you to load the USB device data to the S90 ES. You can store your data to the S90 ES; however, for best safe-keeping, Yamaha recommends that you back up your important data to a USB storage devise.

Setting the system

parameters

Utility mode

[UTILITY] button

The Utility mode lets you set parameters that apply to the entire system of the S90 ES. These parameter settings are applied to all Voices, Performances, and Multis.

* The settings for each Voice, Performance, or Multi can be determined in the respective Voice mode, Performance mode, or Multi mode.

Owner’s Manual

Basic instructions

Voices—the basic building blocks of the S90 ES

Voices—created in the Voice mode—are the basic sonic building blocks for the other modes of the S90 ES. The Performance and Multi programs are made up of different Voices, used together for speciﬁc performance or song recording applications. The S90 ES features an exceptionally wide variety of preset Voices for playing in virtually any musical style. Try searching through the Voices to ﬁnd your favorites. Once you’ve explored them and feel comfortable with them, try branching out creatively and use the editing features to make your own original Voices.

Basic instructions

Selecting a preset Voice Creating a new Voice

Page 30

Page 44

Combine several Voices to create a Performance or Multi

To play several different Voices together simultaneously, select a Performance. To use the S90 ES as a multi-timbral tone generator with your sequencer, select a Multi. The S90 ES contains a full set of specially programmed 128 Performances and 64 Multis. With the help of the Multis, the S90 ES can be used to play back MIDI song ﬁles from a connected USB device.

Selecting a preset Performance Creating a new Performance Creating music using a Multi and your computer Playing back a MIDI ﬁle

Page 34

Page 36, 53

Page 70

Page 96

Master mode—Create a master keyboard setup or instantly call up your desired programs

The Master mode lets you register your favorite Voices, Performances, and Multis together into easy-toselect Master programs. No matter what mode is used—Voice, Performance or Multi—you can have it instantly and automatically selected when you call up the appropriate Master. The Master mode can also be used to divide the keyboard into four sections—each with its own Voice— just as if you were playing four different MIDI keyboards.

Making Master mode settings

Convenient remote control of your computer software

The panel of the S90 ES also serves as a convenient control surface for your computer music system. Use the buttons and sliders to control the audio mixer and sequencer transport functions in your MIDI/audio software. This highly intuitive approach gives you hands-on control over your virtual studio—a level of control that a keyboard and mouse can’t match. These features are available for any computer sequence software and Multi Part Editor software (Page 77) compatible with the Remote Control function.

Remote-controlling the software

Global settings and data backup

While the Voice, Performance, and Multi modes provide controls for using and editing the programs of the S90 ES, the Utility mode is the place where you make overall settings for the instrument—for example, adjusting the transpose and ﬁne tuning controls, or switching between MIDI and USB operation. You can also archive your important S90 ES data to a USB storage device for safe-keeping.

Making global system settings Backing up important data

This concludes our short guide to the basic operations and functions of the S90 ES. Enjoy the dynamic, authentic sounds of the instrument as you continue to play it and create music on it. Make sure to follow the references above and go on to explore some of the other exciting and powerful features of the S90 ES.

Page 90

Page 77

Page 163

Page 126

Owner’s Manual

Main Features

●Naturally responsive 88-Key Balanced Hammer Effect keyboard (with aftertouch), drawing on our extensive

experience and expertise in piano-making.

●Wide range of dynamic and authentic voices. Use the Category Search function to quickly call up the sounds

you want, based on their instrument type.

●Half Damper function that lets you ﬁnely control the decay of the sound—and expressively recreate the

complex charactistics of acoustic instruments, especially piano and stringed instruments.

●Includes the newly developed Damper Resonance—an Insertion effect that reproduces the rich harmonics and

unique sound characteristics of an actual grand piano when using the damper pedal.

●Stretch tuning used on many Voices—the same kind of tuning as used on an actual acoustic piano.

●Arpeggio feature, which automatically plays a variety of sequenced phrases in response to the keys you play.

This function lets you easily call up various melody and rhythm patterns—over 1,700 types—providing instant inspiration for song creation and performance.

●Versatile Multi mode lets you set up the S90 ES for playing multiple instrument parts from your sequencer

software, giving you all the sounds you need to realize complete, professional-sounding songs. Moreover, the corresponding Multi Library lets you have the proper instruments for the selected type of music called up instantly and automatically.

●Extensive effect processing, with Reverb (20 types), Chorus (49 types), eight separate Insertion blocks (each

having two blocks and a total 117 types), Master Effect (8 types), and a digital equalizer (3-band Part EQ and 5band Master EQ).

●Comprehensive real-time control with four Control Sliders—letting you adjust ﬁlter, levels, effects, EG, and more,

while you play.

●Master mode—for using the S90 ES as a master keyboard controller (with independent Zones), and for easily

reconﬁguring the instrument between Voice/Performance play and Multi play in live applications.

●Remote Control—for operating your favorite sequencer software from the S90 ES.

●Three Modular Synthesis Plug-in System slots, which let you upgrade the S90 ES with a completely new

synthesizer or sound-processing engine. These Plug-in boards give you more voices, more effects, more polyphony and more instrument parts. Plus, special Plug-in voices have already been programmed and stored to the S90 ES, ready to be played as soon as you install the proper board.

●A full rear panel of input/output connections provides maximum interfacing ﬂexibility. These include Assignable

Outputs, A/D Inputs, MIDI, and two USB. Moreover, an optional mLAN16E board can be installed.

●Two USB connectors—USB TO HOST for connecting to computer, and USB TO DEVICE for connecting to

storage devices, such as a hard disk drive or ﬂash disk.

●Compatibility with Yamaha's powerful Voice Editor and Multi Part Editor software—featuring comprehensive,

intutive editing of all parameters from your computer.

Owner’s Manual

Using the Owner’s Manual

Setting up and Playing.........................................................................................................................................Page 8

This section gives you all you need to know about getting started in playing and using your S90 ES—from setting up and turning on the power to performing basic operations.

The Controls & Connectors...............................................................................................................................Page 16

Use this section to ﬁnd out about all of the buttons and controls of the S90 ES.

Basic Operation ..................................................................................................................................................Page 21

This section introduces you to the basic operation conventions of this instrument, such as editing values and changing settings.

Quick Guide.........................................................................................................................................................Page 29

In this tutorial section, you will take a guided tour through the various functions of this instrument, and get some hands-on experience in playing using it.

Basic Structure .................................................................................................................................................Page 108

This section provides a detailed overview of all of the main functions and features of this instrument, and shows how they ﬁt together.

Reference...........................................................................................................................................................Page 127

The S90 ES encyclopedia. This section explains all parameters, settings functions, features, modes and operations in full detail.

Appendix............................................................................................................................................................Page 176

Information on installing options, speciﬁcations, error messages, and more.

Troubleshooting................................................................................................................................................Page 189

If the S90 ES does not function as expected or you have some problem with the sound or operation, refer to this section before calling your Yamaha dealer or service center. Most common problems and their solutions are covered here in a very simple and easy-to-understand way.

Data List (separate booklet)

This contains various important lists such as the Voice List, Effect List, and MIDI Implementation Chart.

Various pages and menus appear on the LCD display of this instrument depending the selected mode or function. Throughout this manual, arrows are used in the instructions, indicating in shorthand the process of calling up certain displays and functions. The example instructions below indicate to 1) press the [VOICE] button, 2) select a Normal Voice, 3) press the [EDIT] button, 4) select an Element, 5) press the [F1] OSC button, and 6) press the [SF2] OUTPUT button.

[VOICE]

n When a conﬁrmation message (page 26) or Control Function window (page 42) is shown in the display, press the [EXIT] button to exit from that

→ Normal Voice selection → [EDIT] → Element selection → [F1] OSC → [SF2] OUTPUT

condition, then execute the instructions as in the above example. Likewise, press the [REMOTE] button to exit from the Remote Control mode, then execute the instructions as in the above example when the S90 ES is in the Remote Control mode.

Owner’s Manual

The Controls & Connectors

Front Panel

PAN/SEND

ASSIGN

TONE

ARP FX

MEF

MASTER VOLUME

ASSIGN A ASSIGN B ASSIGN

VOLUME 1

PAN

REVERB CHORUS TEMPO

1 ASSIGN 2

CUTOFF RESONANCE ATTACK

GATETIME VELOCITY

SWING

MEF

LOW

LOW MID

VOLUME

ZONE 1 ZONE 2 ZONE 3 ZONE 4

RELEASE

UNITMULTIPLY

2 MEF 3 MEF 4

HIGH MID

2 VOLUME 3 VOLUME 4

VOLUME

HIGH

SF3 SF4 SF5

SF1F1SF

F2 F3 F4 F5 F6

8(º¡

PAN/SEND

REVERB CHORUS TEMPO

PAN

ASSIGN

ASSIGN A ASSIGN B ASSIGN

TONE

CUTOFF RESONANCE ATTACK

GATETIME VELOCITY

SWING

ARP FX

MEF

2 MEF 3 MEF 4

MEF

LOW

LOW MID

VOLUME 1

VOLUME

2 VOLUME 3 VOLUME 4

ZONE 1 ZONE 2 ZONE 3 ZONE 4

MASTER VOLUME

INFORMATION

1 ASSIGN 2

RELEASE

UNITMULTIPLY

VOLUME

HIGH MID

HIGH

SF1F1SF

DEC/NO

EXIT ENTER

SF3 SF4 SF5

F2 F3 F4 F5 F6

MODE

MASTER

PERFORM

VOICE

MULTI/

FILE UTILITY

SEQ PLAY

INC/YES

EDIT

JOB STORE

COMPARE

EFFECT

ARPEGGIO

REMOTE

EXECUTE

BYPASS

MODE

DRUM

MASTER

PERFORM

VOICE

KITS

FAVORITES

MULTI/

FILE UTILITY

SEQ PLAY

DEC/NO

INC/YES

EDIT

EXIT ENTER

JOB STORE

COMPARE

COMMON

EFFECT

ARPEGGIO

REMOTE

BYPASS

EXECUTE

INFORMATION

DRUM

KITS

FAVORITES

COMMON

PROGRAM

USER 1

USER 2

PRE 3

PRE 2

PRE 4

PRE 1

GUITAR/

A. PIANO KEYBOARD ORGAN

PLUCKED

BCDEFG

SYN PAD/

SYN COMP

CHROMATIC

SYN LEAD

PERCUSSION

CHOIR

4321

ELEMENT/PERF. PART/ZONE

12 13

USER 1

PRE 1

A. PIANO KEYBOARD ORGAN

SYN LEAD

BASS

DRUM/

PERCUSSION

PROGRAM

USER 2

PRE 3

PRE 2

BCDE FG

SYN PAD/

SYN COMP

CHOIR

ELEMENT/PERF. PART/ZONE

PRE 4

GUITAR/ PLUCKED

CHROMATIC PERCUSSION

12 13

BASS

DRUM/

PERCUSSION

SLOT

PLG 1

STRINGS

SLOT

SLOT 3

SLOT 2

Rear Panel

The Controls &

∞ [CATEGORY SEARCH] button Page 32

When this button is turned on, the lower row of Bank buttons (labeled A.PIANO—REED/PIPE below the buttons) and the Group buttons can be used to select the Voice/Performance category.

§ [TRACK SELECT] button Page 104

[MUTE] button Page 105

The buttons enable you to switch the function of Number [1] - [16] buttons. For details, see the “

¢ Number [1] -

[16] buttons.”

■ Functions of the Number [1] - [16] buttons

¶ SLOT 1 - 3 lamps Page 99

These three lamps show the installation status of the Plug-in Boards. If the Plug-in Board has been correctly installed, the corresponding SLOT lamp will light.

n The Vocal Harmony Plug-in Board (PLG100-VH) can be installed

only to slot 1.

n The Multi part Plug-in Board (PLG100-XG) can be installed only to

slot 3.

When [TRACK SELECT] button is on When [MUTE] button is on

Voice Play mode Keyboard transmit channel setting — Voice selection, according to Groups

When both [TRACK SELECT]

and [MUTE] buttons are off

A - H

Voice Edit mode Element selection (1 - 4) and Element Mute setting (9 - 12) — Performance Play mode Keyboard transmit channel setting Performance Part Mute setting (1 - 4) Performance or Voice selection (if Performance Edit mode Performance part selection (1 - 4)

Master Play mode

Keyboard transmit channel setting (when memorizing the Voice mode or Performance mode to the current Master)

Part Mute setting (when registering a Performance or a Multi)

cursor is located at Voice name), according to Groups A - H

Master selection, according to Groups A - H

or Multi Part selection (when memorizing the Multi mode to the current Master)

Master Edit mode Zone selection (1 - 4) — — Multi Play mode Part selection Part Mute setting Multi or Voice selection (if cursor is Multi Edit mode

located at Voice name), according to Groups A - D

Sequence Play mode Keyboard transmit channel setting Part Mute setting — Multi Voice Edit mode Element selection (1 - 4) and Element Mute setting (9 - 12) —

Rear Panel

145$67 83

Plug-in SLOT

USB

TO DEVICE

GREEN YELLOW ORANGE

TO HOST

MIDI

OUT

THRU

ASSIGNABLE OUTPUT

FOOT SWITCH

FOOT CONTROLLER

FOOT PEDAL

A/D INPUT

GAIN

ASSIGNABLE SUSTAIN

BREATH

PHONES

OUTPUT

L/MONO

2 #!9) @

1 POWER Switch

Use this to switch the synthesizer on or off.

2 AC INLET (AC Power Cord Socket) Page 8

Be sure the plug the AC power cord into this socket before plugging the power cord into an AC outlet. Use only the AC power cord supplied with the S90 ES.

3 Plug-in Board Slots 1 - 3 (Plug-in Boards

cover)

Installing an optional Plug-in Board to the S90 ES lets you greatly expand the sonic palette of the instrument. Up to three boards can be installed to the S90 ES’s rear panel.

Owner’s Manual

Page 184

4 USB connectors Page 67

This instrument is equipped with two types of USB connectors on the rear panel—USB TO HOST and USB TO DEVICE. The USB TO HOST connector is used to connect this instrument to the computer via the USB cable. The USB connection between the instrument and the computer can only be used for transfer of MIDI data. Unlike MIDI, USB can handle multiple ports via a single cable. The USB connection can only be used for transfer of MIDI data. No audio data can be transferred via USB. The USB TO DEVICE connector is used to connect this instrument to a USB storage device (hard disk drive, CD-ROM drive, MO drive, ﬂash disk, etc.) via the USB cable. This lets you save the data created on this

Rear Panel

mLAN EXPANSION BOARD mLAN16E

ACTIVE

MADE IN JAPAN

IEEE1394

instrument to the external USB storage device and load the data from the external USB storage device to the instrument. Save and Load operations are executed in the File mode. (Pages 50, 56, 76)

n For details about USB, see page 20 .

USB

USB is an abbreviation for Universal Serial Bus. It is a serial interface for connecting a computer with peripheral devices, and enables much faster data transfer compared to conventional serial port connections.

5 MIDI IN/OUT/THRU connectors Page 65

MIDI IN receives MIDI messages from an external MIDI device. Use this connector to control the synthesizer from an external MIDI device. MIDI OUT is for transmitting all control, performance and playback data from the S90 ES to another MIDI device, such as an external sequencer. You can also play the external tone generator by using the S90 ES and control the external MIDI device.

MIDI THRU is simply for redirecting any received MIDI data (via MIDI IN) to connected devices, allowing convenient chaining of additional MIDI instruments.

6 BREATH Controller jack Page 59

Connect an optional breath controller BC3 here. You can use the Breath Controller to change the output level or tone of the sounds according to the strength of your breath.

7 FOOT SWITCH jacks Page 59

For connection of optional FC3, FC4 or FC5 Footswitches. When connected to the SUSTAIN jack, the Footswitch controls sustain. When connected to ASSIGNABLE, it can control one of various different assignable functions.

n The SUSTAIN jack can be used with the FC3, FC4, or FC5. The

ASSIGNABLE jack can be used with the FC4 or FC5.

) OUTPUT L/MONO & R jacks Pages 9, 63

Line level audio signals are output via these phone jacks. For monophonic output, use just the L/MONO jack.

! PHONES jack Page 9

For connection to a pair of stereo headphones.

@ A/D INPUT jacks Page 38

External audio signals can be input via these phone jacks (1/4" mono phone plug). Various devices such as microphone, guitar, bass, CD player, synthesizer can be connected to these jacks and their audio input signal can be sounded as the AUDIO IN part of the Performance or Multi. For stereo signals (such as from audio equipment), use both jacks. For mono signals (such as from a microphone or guitar), use only the L jack.

# GAIN knob Page 38

For adjusting the input gain of the audio at the A/D INPUT jacks (above). Depending on the connected device (microphone, CD player, etc.), you may need to adjust this for optimum level.

$ mLAN expansion board (mLAN16E) cover

Pages 88, 184

The mLAN expansion board (mLAN16E) sold separately can be installed to this instrument. With the mLAN16E board, you can conveniently and easily hook up your S90 ES to other mLAN compatible instruments or devices.

■ When the optional mLAN16E has been installed:

Connectors

The Controls &

8 FOOT CONTROLLER 1 and 2 jacks Page 59

An optional foot controller (FC7, etc.) can be connected here. Each jack lets you continuously control one of various different assignable functions — such as volume, tone, pitch, or other aspects of the sound.

9 ASSIGNABLE OUT L and R jacks Page 63

Line level audio signals are output from this instrument via these phone jacks (1/4" mono phone plug). These outputs are independent of the main output (at the L/MONO and R jacks below), and can be freely assigned to any of the Drum Voice keys or the Parts. This lets you route speciﬁc Voices or sounds for processing with a favorite outboard effect unit. The parts which can be assigned to these jacks are as follows:

• Drum Voice key to which the drum/percussion instrument is assigned

• Any Part of a Performance*

• Any Part of a Multi*

* Including the Audio Input Part

n The illustration above shows the panel of the mLAN16E expansion

board with the included sticker label afﬁxed. Make sure to attach this label to the mLAN16E (page 187).

1 mLAN (IEEE1394) connectors 1, 2

For connecting mLAN devices or IEEE1394-compatible devices via IEEE1394 standard (6-pin) cables.

mLAN

“mLAN” is a digital network designed for musical applications. It uses and extends the industry standard IEEE 1394 high performance serial bus.

* The name “mLAN” and its logo (above) are trademarks.

Owner’s Manual

Connectors

Using USB storage devices

The Controls &

Using USB storage devices

When using USB storage devices, make sure to connect them to the USB TO DEVICE connector, and follow the important precautions below.

■ Compatible USB devices

Connect only a USB storage device (such as hard disk, CDROM, ﬂash disk and other drives) to the USB TO DEVICE connector. Other devices such as a computer keyboard or mouse cannot be used. Both bus-powered (powered by the host device) or self powered (battery or external power supply) types can be used. The S90 ES does not necessarily support all commercially available USB storage devices. Yamaha cannot guarantee operation of USB storage devices that you purchase. Before purchasing USB storage devices, please consult your Yamaha dealer, or an authorized Yamaha distributor (see list at end of the Owner’s Manual) for advice, or see the following website:

http://www.yamahasynth.com/

n Although CD-R/W drives can be used to load data to the instrument,

they cannot be used for saving data. However, you can transfer data to a computer and save data to a CD using the CD-R/W drive on the computer.

■ Formatting USB storage media

When a USB storage device is connected or media is inserted, a “USB device unformatted.” message may appear in the LCD display, indicating that the device or media must be formatted for use. Execute the Format operation in the File mode (Page 168).

Precautions when using the USB TO DEVICE

USB connector types

There are two different types of USB connectors, and the rear panel of the instrument features both. Take care not to confuse the two.

USB TO HOST connector

This type is used to connect the instrument to a computer, and allows you to transfer MIDI data between the devices. The USB connection between the instrument and the computer can only be used for transfer of MIDI data. Unlike MIDI, USB can handle multiple ports via a single cable. USB cables have different connectors on each end: the A type and the B type. Connect the A type to your computer and the B type to the USB TO HOST connector.

USB TO DEVICE connector

This type is used to connect the instrument to a USB storage device, and allows you to save data you’ve created to the connected device, as well as load data from the connected device. This lets you save the data created on this instrument to the external USB storage device and load the data from the external USB storage device to the instrument. Save and Load operations are executed in the File mode (page 168). USB cables have different connectors on each end: the A type and the B type. Connect the A type to the USB TO DEVICE connector and the B type to the USB storage device.

connector

Never turn the USB device’s power on/off and never plug/unplug the USB cable when the connected USB storage device is the self powered type. Doing so may result in the operation of the synthesizer “freezing” or hanging up. While the instrument is accessing data (such as in the Save, Load and Delete operations in the File mode), do NOT unplug the USB cable, do NOT remove the media from the device, and do NOT turn the power off to either device. Doing so may corrupt the data on either or both devices.

B type

USB TO HOST connector

MIDI data transfer

Saving/Loading data in the File mode (page 168)

A type

USB TO DEVICE connector

Connecting to a computer

Connecting to a USB storage device (hard disk, CD-ROM, ﬂash disk and other drives)

■ To protect your data (Write-protect):

To prevent important data from being inadvertently erased, apply the write-protect provided with each storage device or media. If you are saving data to the USB storage device, make sure to remove the write-protect.

Owner’s Manual

S90 ES

n The computer cannot access the USB storage device

connected to the S90 ES’s USB TO DEVICE connector, even if connecting as shown above. Only from the File mode on the instrument itself can you access the data on the USB storage device connected to the USB TO DEVICE connector.

n Though the S90 ES supports the USB 1.1 standard, you can

connect and use a USB 2.0 storage device with the S90 ES. However, note that the transfer speed complies to USB 1.1.

Basic Operation

In this section you’ll learn about the fundamental operations of the S90 ES—the use of the panel controls and how to execute basic functions such as selecting programs, naming programs/ﬁles, and using the keyboard to directly enter certain values.

This section starts off with the Factory Set operation, which allows you to restore the instrument to its original condition—in case you’ve inadvertently changed any important settings.

Restoring the Factory-programmed S90 ES

The S90 ES has a Factory Set function for restoring your S90 ES’s memory to the factory default settings. This lets you restore the synthesizer’s default User Voices, Performances and Multis, as well as its System and other settings.

CAUTION

Keep in mind that once you edit any settings, the corresponding factory defaults will be overwritten and lost. Make sure you are not overwriting any important data. You should back up any important data to the USB device beforehand (page 126).

1. Press the [UTILITY] button to enter the Utility mode (the indicator lights).

2. Press the [JOB] button to enter the Utility Job mode.

VOICE

PERFORM

MASTER

VOICE

PERFORM

MASTER

MULTI/ SEQ PLAY

EDIT

COMPARE

REMOTE

FILE UTILITY

JOB STORE

EFFECT

ARPEGGIO

BYPASS

MULTI/ SEQ PLAY

EDIT

COMPARE

REMOTE

FILE UTILITY

JOB STORE

EFFECT

ARPEGGIO

BYPASS

3. Press the [ENTER] button. (The display prompts you for conﬁrmation.)

To return to the original display, press the [DEC/NO] button. To execute the Factory Set, press the [INC/YES] button.

4. After the Factory Set has been completed, a “Completed” message appears and operation returns to the original

display.

CAUTION

For Factory Set operations that take longer to process, you will see the messa ge “Executing…” or “Please Keep Power On!” during processing. Do not switch the power off while this message is on the display. Turning the power off in this state results in loss of all user data and may cause the system to freeze. This means that this synthesizer may not be able to start up properly, even when turning the power on next time.

n All settings in the Utility mode that are related to the Plug-in boards are stored only to the memory on those respective boards, and not to the memory

of this synthesizer. Because of this, the Factory Set operation cannot be used to restore settings for those devices.

Owner’s Manual

Functions of the MODE buttons

Basic Operation

Mode table

The functions of each mode and how to enter mode are as follows:

Voice mode Play mode Playing a Voice [VOICE]

Performance mode Play mode Playing a Performance [PERFORM]

Multi mode Play mode Playing a Multi [MULTI/SEQ PLAY]

Master mode Play mode Playing a Master [MASTER]

Sequence Play mode Play mode Playing back MIDI ﬁles [MULTI/SEQ PLAY] Job mode Utility mode Setting system related parameters [UTILITY]

File mode File mode Managing ﬁles and folders (directories) [FILE]

Enters the mode corresponding to each button.

For details about each mode, see page 12.

Enters each Edit mode when pressing the [EDIT]

button in the Voice, Performance, Multi, or Master

mode. You can edit each program in the Edit

Controls the computer software by using the

buttons and controllers on S90 ES (Page 77).

Mode Function How to enter the mode

Edit mode Editing/Creating a Voice [VOICE] → [EDIT] Job mode Initializing a Voice, etc. [VOICE] → [JOB] Store mode Storing a Voice to internal memory [VOICE] → [STORE]

Edit mode Editing/Creating a Performance [PERFORM] → [EDIT] Job mode Initializing a Performance, etc. [PERFORM] → [JOB] Store mode Storing a Performance to internal memory [PERFORM] → [STORE]

Edit mode Editing/Creating a Multi [MULTI/SEQ PLAY] → [EDIT] Job mode Initializing a Multi, etc. [MULTI/SEQ PLAY] → [JOB] Store mode Storing a Multi to internal memory [MULTI/SEQ PLAY] → [STORE]

Edit mode Editing/Creating a Master [MASTER] → [EDIT] Job mode Initializing a Master, etc. [MASTER] → [JOB] Store mode Storing a Master to internal memory [MASTER] → [STORE]

Job mode Restoring factory defaults [UTILITY] → [JOB]

VOICE

MULTI/ SEQ PLAY

PERFORM

MASTER

FILE UTILITY

Enters each Store mode when pressing the [STORE] button in the Voice, Performance, Multi, or Master mode, letting you store the edited program for the relevant mode. In the Utility mode, pressing the [STORE] button directly executes the

EDIT

COMPARE

REMOTE

JOB STORE

EFFECT BYPASS

ARPEGGIO

Store operation.

Enters each Job mode when pressing the [JOB] button in the Voice, Performance, Multi, Master, or Utility mode. You can initialize and copy data in the Job mode.

Tur ns the effects and Arpeggio functions on or off (Pages 39, 119).

n Pressing the [MULTI/SEQ PLAY] button toggles between the Multi mode and Sequence Play mode.

■ How to leave the current display

For most operations or displays, pressing the [EXIT] button will let you leave the current display and return you to the previous one. You can return back to each Play mode by pressing the [EXIT] button several times in the respective mode.

DEC/NO

EXIT ENTER

Owner’s Manual

INC/ YES

EXECUTE

Functions and Sub-Functions

Each mode described above contains various displays, with various functions and parameters. To navigate your way through these displays and select a desired function, use the [F1] - [F6] buttons and the [SF1] - [SF5] buttons. When you select a mode, the available displays or menus appear directly above the buttons at the bottom of the display (as shown below).

Using the Function buttons [F1] - [F6]

These functions can be selected via the corresponding button ([F1] - [F6]).

SF1F1SF2

F2 F3 F4 F5 F6

SF3 SF4 SF5

INFORMATION

In this example, press the [F5] button to go to the LFO display.

Depending on the currently selected mode, up to six functions are available and can be called up with the [F1] - [F6] buttons. Keep in mind that the available functions differ depending on the selected mode.

Using the Sub-Function buttons [SF1] - [SF5]

These functions can be selected via the corresponding button ([SF1] - [SF5]).

SF1F1SF2

SF3 SF4 SF5

INFORMATION

Basic Operation

F2 F3 F4 F5 F6

In this example, press the [SF5] button to go to the OTHER display.

Depending on the currently selected mode, up to ﬁve functions (sub-functions) are available and can be called up with the [SF1] - [SF5] buttons. Keep in mind that the available functions differ depending on the selected mode. (Some displays may not have any sub-functions for these buttons.)

Selecting a Program

In order to play the S90 ES you’ll need to call up one of its programs, i.e., a Voice, Performance, Multi, or Master. These programs can be selected in each Play mode via the same procedure.

■ Using the [INC/YES], [DEC/NO] buttons and the data dial

The [INC/YES] and [DEC/NO] buttons let you step up or down through the program numbers in any of the Play modes (Voice, Performance, Multi, and Master). Rotating the data dial to the right (clockwise) increases the program number, while rotating it to the left (counter-clockwise) decreases it. This control works in the same way as the [INC/YES] and [DEC/NO] buttons, but lets you scroll through the programs more quickly.

Decreases number Increases number

Decreases number

DEC/NO INC/YES

Increases number

Owner’s Manual

Selecting a Program

■ Using the Group, Number buttons

As shown below, you can select a program number by pressing any of the Group [A] - [H] buttons and pressing any of the Number [1] - [16] buttons.

Basic Operation

n The convenient Category Search function (page 32) lets you easily locate and select the Voices or Performance you want by type.

The Voice program numbers and the corresponding Group/Numbers are listed below.

DRUM

KITS

FAVORITES

COMMON

USER 1

USER 2

PRE 3

PRE 2

PRE 1

A. PIANO KEYBOA RD ORGAN

BCDE FG

SYN PAD/

SYN LEAD

CHOIR

ELEMENT/PERF. PART/ZONE

SYN COMP

PRE 4

GUITAR/

PLUCKED

CHROMATIC PERCUSSION

12 13

BASS

DRUM/

PERCUSSION

SLOT

PLG 1

STRINGS

SLOT 2

PLG 2

BRASS

MUSICAL FX

SLOT 3

PLG 3

REED/PIPE

COMBI

About the editing functions

In this section, we’ll explain the basic operations for editing the Voice, Performance, Multi settings.

Moving the Cursor and Setting Parameters

About the editing functions

Changing (editing) parameter values

Rotating the data dial to the right (clockwise) increases the value, while rotating it to the left (counter-clockwise)

Moving the cursor

Use these four buttons to navigate the display, moving the cursor around the various selectable items and parameters in the screen. When selected, the relevant item is highlighted (the cursor appears as a dark block with inverse characters). You can change the value of the item (parameter) at which the cursor is located by using the data dial, [INC/YES] and [DEC/NO] buttons.

DEC/NO

EXIT ENTER

INC/ YES

EXECUTE

decreases it. For parameters with large value ranges, you can increase the value by 10 by simultaneously holding down the [INC/YES] button and pressing the [DEC/NO] button. To decrease by 10, do the opposite; simultaneously hold down the [DEC/NO] button and press the [INC/YES] button.

Edit Indicator

You can adjust or set various parameters by using the data dial, [INC/YES] button, [DEC/NO] button, and Control sliders in each mode. When changing the value of the parameter in the Voice, Performance, and Multi modes, the [E] (Edit Indicator) will appear on the top left corner of the LCD display. This indicates that the current program (Voice, Performance, or Multi) has been modiﬁed but not yet stored. If you wish to store your sound obtained by edit operation, be sure to store the current program to internal memory in the Store mode before selecting another program (pages 50, 56, 76).

Edit Indicator

Basic Operation

If the Edit Indicator appears...

EDIT

COMPARE

JOB STORE

Owner’s Manual

Confirmation Message

Compare Function

This convenient function lets you switch between the edited sound and its original, unedited condition—allowing you to listen to the difference between the two and better hear how your edits affect the sound.

Basic Operation

For example, when editing a Voice in the Voice Edit mode, the “E” Edit indicator is shown. Pressing the [EDIT] button in this condition reverts to the original unedited sound (the button lamp ﬂashes and the “C” Compare indicator is shown). Press the [EDIT] button again to return to the edited sound (page 104).

Edit Indicator (newly edited sound) Changes to the Compare Indicator (original sound)

EDIT

JOB STORE

COMPARE

Edit Recall Function

If you are editing a program and select a different program without storing your edited one, all the edits you’ve made will be erased. However, the edited program is maintained in a backup memory location for the Edit Recall function. To restore the lost data with your latest edits intact, use the Edit Recall function in the Job mode (page 104).

Job mode How to call up the Edit Recall display

Voice [VOICE] → [JOB] → [F2] RECALL Performance [PERFORM] → [JOB] → [F2] RECALL Multi [MULTI/SEQ PLAY] → [JOB] → [F2] RECALL

Conﬁrmation Message

When you execute certain operations, such as those in the Job, Store, and File modes, a conﬁrmation message appears.

This lets you actually execute the operation or cancel it if desired. If a conﬁrmation message (like the one illustrated above) appears, press the [INC/YES] button to execute the operation or press the [DEC/NO] button to cancel it.

Owner’s Manual

Information Display

This convenient function lets you call up relevant details about the selected mode—simply by pressing the [INFORMATION] button. For example, when the Voice mode is active, you can quickly check information about which voice bank is selected, what Play mode (poly or mono) is being used, which effects are applied, and so on.

INFORMATION

For details, see page 176.

Note (Key) settings

Several parameters let you set a key range for a function—for example, in setting up a keyboard split—by specifying certain note values. You can use the [INC/YES] and [DEC/NO] buttons or data dial to set these parameters, or you can directly enter the values from the keyboard by pressing the appropriate keys (as shown below).

Basic Operation

INFORMATION

When Note Limit is selected, the [KBD] mark appears, indicating that you can use the keyboard to set the value. Simultaneously hold down the [INFORMATION] button and press the appropriate key.

n About the note name assigned to each key, see page 16.

Naming

You can freely name data you’ve created, such as voices and ﬁles saved to the USB storage device. The chart below lists the types of data that can be named along with the operations for calling up the respective naming displays.

Data types that can be named How to call up the naming display Page Voice [VOICE] → [EDIT] → [F1] GENERAL → [SF1] NAME 128

[MULTI/SEQ PLAY] → [F3] VOICE → Normal Voice Selection → [F5] VCE ED 161

Performance [PERFORM] → [EDIT] → [F1] GENERAL → [SF1] NAME 150 Multi [MULTI/SEQ PLAY] → [EDIT] → [F1] GENERAL → [SF1] NAME 158 Master [MASTER] → [EDIT] → [F1] NAME 173 Volume Label of the USB storage device [FILE] → [F1] CONFIG → [SF3] FORMAT 168 File/Folder saved to the USB storage device [FILE] → [F2] SAVE or [F4] RENAME 168

First, call up the name input display according to the above table, then, move the cursor by using the Cursor button to the desired location and input a character. See below for details.

n Since the name of the program is part of the data, make sure that you properly save the program after naming it.

Owner’s Manual

Naming

■ Basic naming operation

As shown below, you can set the name by repeating the two operations—moving the cursor to the desired location by using the Cursor button and selecting a character by using the data dial, [INC/YES] button, and [DEC/NO] button.

Basic Operation

Moving the cursor to the desired location on the name Selecting a character at the cursor location

DEC/NO

EXIT ENTER

INC/ YES

DEC/NO INC/YES

EXECUTE

■ Using the character list

If you ﬁnd it difﬁcult to select the desired characters with the above method, you may want to use the following method — selecting the characters from a list.

INFORMATION

Perform the operations below while holding the [INFORMATION] button.

When the cursor is located at the Name, this [LIST] icon appears and you can call up the Character List display by holding the [INFORMATION] button. Release the [INFORMATION] button to return back to the original display.

INFORMATION

Move the cursor to the desired location.

DEC/NO

EXIT ENTER

INC/ YES

EXECUTE

Select a character for the cursor location on the name.

INFORMATION

DEC/NO INC/YES

Owner’s Manual

Playing the Demo Songs

Quick Guide

Playing the Demo Songs

Several demo songs are included with this synthesizer. In this section, you’ll learn how to play them back.

n Make sure the synthesizer is ready for playback. Details are given in the section “Setting up and Playing” on page 8.

PERFORM

VOICE

MULTI/

FILE UTILITY

SEQ PLAY

SF1

SF2

SF3 SF4 SF5

F2 F3 F4 F5 F6

DEC/NO

INFORMATION

EXIT ENTER

INC/ YES

EDIT

COMPARE

REMOTE

JOB STORE

EFFECT BYPASS

Quick GuidePlaying the Demo Songs

MASTER

ARPEGGIO

EXECUTE

223,4

Press the [MULTI/SEQ PLAY] button to enter the Sequence Play mode.

If the following display does not appear, press the [MULTI/SEQ PLAY] button again.

Press the [SF5] DEMO button to call up the Demo songs.

n You can select the ﬁrst song for playback by using the [▲][▼] buttons.

Press the [F6]Fbutton to start playback of the Demo song.

n You can also specify the song tempo or the song position. The operation is the same as in the Sequence Play mode (page 96).

The [SF6]Jbutton lets you pause playback and then start again from the same point in the song.

To exit from the Demo display, stop playback, then press the [EXIT] button.

Demo song playback continues indeﬁnitely until stopped.

Owner’s Manual

Voice Play mode

Playing the S90 ES

Voice Play mode

The Voice Play mode is where you select and play the instrument sounds (voices) of this synthesizer.

Quick Guide Playing the S90 ES

Selecting a Normal Voice

Internally, there are two Voice Types: Normal Voices and Drum Voices. Normal Voices are mainly pitched musical instrumenttype sounds that can be played over the range of the keyboard. Drum Voices are mainly percussion/drum sounds that are assigned to individual notes on the keyboard. In this section, we’ll show you how to select a Normal Voice. You can select the desired Voice from various Voice Banks (Preset 1 - 4, User 1 - 2, GM preset, Plug-in 1 - 3) as shown below.

Voice Bank

In this condition, playing the keyboard sounds the Voice indicated in the display. The parameters shown in the Voice Play mode are brieﬂy explained below.

GM Preset Bank

Contains the voices allocated according to the

User Bank

Contains the voices you’ve

USER 1

USER 2

GM standard. For details, see page 112.

created in the Voice Edit mode.

Preset Bank

Contains the Voices

PRE 1

PRE 2

PRE 3

PRE 4

built into this instrument.

A. PIANO KEYBOARD ORGAN

GUITAR/

PLUCKED

BASS

Press the [VOICE] button to enter the Voice Play mode.

SLOT

PLG 1

SLOT 2

PLG 2

SLOT 3

PLG 3

Plug-in Bank

Available when Plug-in Boards have

STRINGS

BRASS

REED/PIPE

been installed. See page 99.

MASTER

PERFORM

VOICE

Indicates the Keyboard MIDI transmit channel. See page 105 for details.

Indicates the Keyboard Octave setting. See page 105 for details.

ARP1-ARP5

Use the [SF1] - [SF5] buttons

Indicates the functions assigned to the respective Control sliders. See page 47.

to call up the Arpeggio type assigned to each button (page

39).

Indicates the currently selected voice.

Bank and Voice Program number

Category and Voice name

USR1 : 001 (A01) Gt : Unplugged

Bank

(selected via the buttons)

Number

(selected via the Number [1] - [16] buttons)

Group

(selected via the Group [A] - [H] buttons)

Voice Program number

(corresponding to Groups A to H and Numbers 01 to 16)

n Keep in mind that the example displays shown in this manual are for instruction purposes only, and the contents (for example, the Voice name here)

may differ slightly from those on your instrument.

Category Voice name

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