Yamaha Releases Studio Manager Software for SPX2000

(Click for a close-up)

Rear Panel (Click for a close-up)

Studio Manager Screen Shot (Click for a close-up)

Yamaha announced the Studio Manager software for the recently-introduced Yamaha SPX2000 multi effect processor at this year's Winter NAMM show. To be available without charge at www.yamaha.com/proaudio, Studio Manager provides editing, data management, and remote control capability for the SPX2000 directly from a computer. All functions are replicated on-screen in logical, easy-to-understand pages, and use the same interface found in Studio Manager for Yamaha's digital mixing consoles.

The Yamaha SPX2000 inherits the user interface and common programs from its predecessors, while bringing 96kHz audio DSP, the advanced REV-X reverb algorithm and a whole new generation of Yamaha reverb programs.

A 96kHz audio DSP with 32-bit internal processing (58-bit accumulator) offers incredible processing power for advanced effect algorithms. The 24-bit 128-times over-sampling AD/DA converters deliver 106dB dynamic range and flat response (20Hz to 40kHz at 96kHz sampling rate).

Three memory banks include PRESET, CLASSIC and USER. The PRESET bank contains 97 programs (17 of which are based on the REV-X reverb algorithm), including REV-X Hall, REV-X ROOM and REV-X PLATE. New parameters include ROOM SIZE and DECAY, producing higher definition and finer nuances. The remaining presets include refinements of trademark SPX programs: gate reverbs, delays, pitch, modulation and other special effects. The CLASSIC bank includes 25 programs reminiscent of the original SPX90 presets. The USER bank can store up to 99 user programs.

The rugged aluminum front panel features two sets of the familiar "cross-keys" navigation buttons. Parameters are sorted into three groups for quick access--PARAMETER, FINE PARAM and UTILITY. Other dedicated buttons include UNDO, COMPARE, BANK, MODE, METER, TAP and BYPASS.

An OPERATION LOCK function offers three levels of security, preventing Utility settings from being changed, protecting stored memories, or even prohibiting operational choices altogether.

The SPX2000 LCD offers five backlight color variations which can be assigned to user programs. Preset programs are colored by effect type, giving the user instant recognition: CYAN--Reverbs; WHITE--Delays; MAGENTA--Pitch & Modulations; YELLOW--Others; GREEN--CLASSIC Bank. RED is reserved for warning messages.

Rear Panel connections include XLR-type and 1/4-in. I/O analog connectors with cut/boost switches, AES/EBU XLR-type I/O digital connectors, BNC WORDCLOCK IN, MIDI IN/OUT/TROUGH, and USB and TO HOST connectors for use with remote control, computer, digital consoles or MIDI devices. A foot switch connector for effect tempo control is located on the front panel.

The SPX2000 is currently available at an MSRP of $1,249.