PSR-E423 Digital Keyboard Takes Interactivity To The Next Level

Yamaha Keyboard Division will unveil the PSR-E423 portable keyboard, which takes electronic music performance a step beyond entry-level models. Launching at Winter NAMM 2010, the 61-key PSR-E423 replaces the PSR-E413 and includes over 120 arpeggiator patters that build and play around the chords played by the performer. It also features control knobs for altering sounds in real time and providing hands-on ability to change aspects of Voice and arpeggiator sounds such as filter cutoff, tempo and effects. In addition to keyboard education tools like the built-in Yamaha Education Suite, this new portable keyboard includes hip techno and electronic Styles, 700 top-quality instrument Voices and world music content. "Customers who get into entry-level portable keyboard models need a step-up instrument that lets them take their interest in music to the next level," says Dane Madsen, marketing manager, Yamaha Electronic Keyboards. "The PSR-E423 is packed with Style and arpeggiator content that will get their musical wheels turning and keep them going." The control knobs – which offer real time control over sound, effects, EQ, tempo and arpeggiator patterns ¿¿¿ can also be assigned to adjust the filter cutoff frequency, which gives virtually everything one plays the signature electronica sound that many keyboard players seek. The model, which comes in a sleek black color, also includes six tracks of recording and a USB port so players can transfer data between the instrument and a computer. With Yamaha's Performance Assistant technology, anyone can play a song—even novices. When the keys are struck in time with the music, the notes are corrected to match chords of the song being played. No matter what keys are hit on the keyboard, musically correct notes will play. Think of it as the keyboard equivalent to the auto harp The PSR-E423 (MSRP: $399) is expected to ship in April 2010.