Yamaha Intros PSR-E203 and PSR-E303 Portable Keyboards

PSR-E303 (Click for a close-up)

Yamaha strengthens its position in the portable keyboard marketplace with the introduction of the PSR-E203 and PSR-E303. Designed as entry-level products for the beginner or music hobbyist, the new portables represent the first models in their price points to include complete General MIDI compatibility (PSR-E203) and sequencing (PSR-E303)--functions that up until recently, could only be found on higher-priced units and professional workstations. The PSR-E203 (MSRP $159.95) and PSR-E303 (MSRP $259.95) are expected to ship in the second quarter of 2005, and will replace current models PSR-172 and PSR-273.

The PSR-E203 and PSR-E303 feature 61 piano-sized keys, 32 notes of polyphony and an ultra-realistic Yamaha Stereo Grand Piano voice. Both models also include the built-in, upgraded Yamaha Education Suite (Y.E.S. V) with exercises, interactive "Listen and Learn" lessons and a chord dictionary.

The PSR-E203 includes 134 voices, 100 styles and 102 preset songs. With General MIDI compatibility, the PSR-E203 is computer-friendly with most software and Internet applications.

The PSR-E303 features 482 voices (including Yamaha's XGlite voice set), 106 styles and 102 preset songs. One breakthrough is a five-track sequencer that allows the user to record his or her own original music. Other refinements include "Full" and "Split" keyboard functions, DSP effects, the Sound Effects Kit with dedicated panel button and Flash ROM--perfect for connecting to a computer and transferring MIDI content from the Internet.