Feel the Beat with Yamaha's ClickStation

(Click for a close-up)

Yamaha introduces a new concept in traditional timekeeping with the Summer NAMM 2003 debut of the ClickStation programmable metronome.

Currently available at $179 MSRP, the Yamaha ClickStation features a small, round vibrating pad that pulsates with the beat, providing the user with time reference through the sense of feel, and eliminating the need for audible or visual cues. Individual fader-type volume controls for half-, quarter-, eighth- and sixteenth-note, plus eighth-note triplets and accompaniment allow the user to fine tune the volume for beat subdivisions.

Up to 86 tempo settings can be saved as songs and preset into a chain in the internal memory for quick recall and consecutive playback, making the ClickStation an ideal accessory for a set list or other live performance application.

The ClickStation also includes a MIDI IN jack for easy sync with a sequencer or other MIDI device, and a trigger input jack for remote start/stop of playback or tap tempo functions from an electronic drum pad. Other features include an easy-to-read backlit LCD display, plus a 10-key pad for tempo input and quick access to functions.