The Yamaha Motif represents a groundbreaking approach to synth workstation design, being Yamaha's first synthesizer to bear a name rather than a model number. Available in three keyboard configurations (61, 76, and 88 keys), the Motif series pushes the boundaries of what's possible in a hardware workstation by cramming an unprecedented number of features into a single instrument while maintaining exceptional integration capabilities with computer-based music production systems.

At its core, the Motif is built around Yamaha's AWM2 (Advanced Wave Memory 2) sample-plus-synthesis technology, delivering 62-voice polyphony across 16 multitimbral parts. The synthesis engine draws from an equivalent 84MB waveform ROM, providing a rich palette of sounds that spans from realistic instrument simulations to cutting-edge synthetic textures. The voice architecture employs up to four Elements per Voice, with each Element functioning as a complete synthesizer featuring sampled waveforms, resonant filters (18 types available), dedicated envelope generators, and LFO modulation.

The factory sound collection is comprehensive and impressive, covering all musical bases with particular strength in electric and distorted guitars, realistic bass sounds with performance effects, convincing string ensembles, and authentic analog-style synthesizer voices. The drum section includes everything from standard rock kits to TR-808/909-style sounds and specialized collections for jungle, hip-hop, and R&B production. The instrument's capable filters and rich sample fidelity contribute to its notably "fat" sound character with substantial low-end presence.

Advanced Sequencing Capabilities

The Motif's 16-track sequencer operates in both linear and pattern-based modes, offering 110,000-note capacity with 480ppqn resolution. The sequencer includes sophisticated features typically found only in computer software, such as individual track looping, comprehensive MIDI editing tools (crescendo, roll, glide, chord strum effects), Beat Stretch for tempo-independent timing adjustments, and a five-Scene system for automated mixing changes.

The pattern sequencer supports up to 256-bar patterns with 16 tracks each, featuring 128 preset drum phrases and the ability to create 256 user phrases. Each track within a pattern can have different bar lengths, with shorter tracks automatically looping to synchronize with longer ones. Patterns can be chained with tempo changes and track muting, then converted to full songs.

Integrated Sampling System

The built-in 16-bit stereo sampler starts with 4MB RAM (expandable to 64MB) and incorporates many advanced features from Yamaha's A-series samplers. Audio can be sampled from multiple sources including the stereo inputs, optional digital inputs, or the Motif's internal mix. Sampling rates range from 5.5kHz to 44.1kHz in both mono and stereo formats.

The standout feature is the "Slice" function, which automatically divides samples into segments, assigns them to consecutive MIDI keys, and creates corresponding sequence tracks that play back in perfect synchronization with the current tempo. This revolutionary feature works particularly well with drum loops and rhythmic material, allowing tempo changes while maintaining natural playback characteristics. Sliced samples can even be converted into synthesizer waveforms for further sound design.

Effects Processing

The effects system provides two global effects (12 reverb types plus 25 modulation effects), two insert effects (25 and 104 types respectively), and a five-band master EQ. Effects range from standard reverbs and delays to more creative processors including rotary speaker simulation, multi-band compression, digital turntable effects, and various effect chains. The routing is flexible, with insert effects assignable to individual Voice Elements or chainable for complex processing.

Computer Integration and Control Features

The Motif excels in computer integration through its USB port and comprehensive software bundle. The included File Utility enables drag-and-drop transfer of MIDI files, samples (WAV/AIFF), and other data via SmartMedia cards. The free Voice Editor provides professional-level sound editing capabilities with graphical interfaces that surpass the hardware's LCD display limitations.

Master keyboard functionality includes 128 Master memories supporting four-zone splits with independent key ranges, transposition, and MIDI channel assignments. The Remote Control mode transforms the Motif into a control surface for computer sequencers, with transport controls, track selection, muting, and real-time parameter adjustment via the front-panel knobs and sliders.

Physical Design and Connectivity

The Motif 6 features a 5-oct 61-note velocity and aftertouch-sensitive synth-action keyboard housed in a substantial 16.5kg chassis. The front panel includes four assignable sliders and four knobs for real-time control, though these could have been better integrated with the editing system. The 240x64-dot backlit LCD, while functional, doesn't match the sophistication of competing touchscreen displays.

Connectivity is extensive, including MIDI In/Out/Thru, stereo audio inputs with gain control, four audio outputs, optical S/PDIF digital output (standard), SCSI-2, USB, breath controller input, headphone output, two foot controller inputs, two footswitch inputs, and a SmartMedia card slot. Three internal PLG expansion slots accept various synthesis boards, effectively adding new synthesizers to the system.

The arpeggiator offers 256 preset patterns including traditional sequences, musical phrases, and drum patterns, with 128 user memories available. Custom patterns are created by capturing material from sequencer tracks, though the implementation could be more intuitive.

Technical Specifications

Synthesis Engine

• Polyphony: 62 voices + additional polyphony from Plug-in Boards (if installed)
• Maximum Polyphony: 124 notes (sequencer)
• Multitimbral: 16 parts (internal) + 3 or more Plug-in Board parts (1 per Single Plug-in Board; 16 for Multi Plug-in Board), plus A/D Input
• Architecture: AWM2 (Advanced Wave Memory 2) complying with Modular Synthesis Plug-in System
• Waveform ROM: 84MB (when converted to 16-bit linear format)
• Waveforms: 1,309 waveforms
• Voice Structure: Up to 4 Elements per Voice, up to 4 Voices per Performance
• Filter Types: 21 types of resonant filters
• LFO: Dedicated per Element

Sound Library

• Factory Voices: 384 normal voices + 48 drum kits
• User Voice Memories: 128 normal voices + 16 drum kits
• GM Presets: 128 normal voices + 1 drum kit
• User Performances: 128 (up to 4 parts)
• Plug-in Voices:
  • PLG150-AN/PF/DX: 64 preset voices
  • PLG150-VL: 192 preset voices
  • User: 64 voices per Plug-in slot
• Alternate Tunings: 31 preset (including Indian, quarter-tone, Werkmeister, pure majors/minors)

Sequencer

• Tracks:
  • Pattern Mode: 16 phrase tracks
  • Pattern Chain Mode: Pattern track, Tempo track, Scene track
  • Song Mode: 16 sequence tracks (Loop on/off per track), Tempo track, Scene track
• Note Capacity: Approximately 111,000 notes
• Resolution: 480 ppq (parts per quarter note)
• Tempo Range: 1-300 BPM
• Recording Types: Real time replace, Real time overdub (except Pattern Chain), Real time punch (Song only), Step (except Pattern Chain)
• Song Memory: 64 Songs
• User Patterns: 1,024 (64 styles x 16 sections)
• Pattern Length: Up to 256 measures maximum
• Preset Phrases: 128 drum phrases
• User Phrases: 256 per style
• Scenes: 5 per Song
• Sequence Format: Original format, SMF format 0, 1 (Format 1 load only)

Sampler

• Sample Resolution: 16-bit
• A/D Conversion: 20-bit, 64x oversampling
• D/A Conversion: 24-bit, 128x oversampling
• Sampling Frequencies: 44.1kHz, 22.05kHz, 11.025kHz, 5.5125kHz (Stereo/Mono)
• Digital Sampling (with AIEB2): 48kHz, 44.1kHz, 32kHz (input with conversion to MOTIF sampling frequency)
• mLAN Sampling (with mLAN8E): 44.1kHz (fixed)
• Base RAM: 4MB
• Maximum RAM: 64MB (32MB SIMM x 2 slots, original 4MB disabled when 32MB SIMMs installed)
• Sample Length Limits: Mono: 32MB, Stereo: 64MB
• Maximum Sampling Time (with 64MB RAM):
  • 44.1kHz: 6 min 20 sec
  • 22.05kHz: 12 min 40 sec
  • 11.025kHz: 25 min 20 sec
  • 5.5125kHz: 55 min 40 sec
• Sample Storage: Up to 256 Waveforms (Multi Samples), Up to 128 Key Banks per Waveform, Up to 8,192 Key Banks total
• Sampling Sources: Analog input L/R, Stereo output (Resampling), Digital/Optical (with AIEB2), mLAN (with mLAN8E)
• Format Compatibility: Original format, WAV, AIFF, A3000/4000/5000/SU700 format (SCSI only), AKAI S1000/S3000 format (SCSI only)
• Special Features: Loop Remix, Slice function, real-time sampling to sequencer tracks

Effects

• System Effects:
  • Reverb: 12 types
  • Chorus: 25 types
  • Insertion 1: 25 types
  • Insertion 2: 104 types
  • Variation: 25 types (available for Performance/Song)
  • Master Equalizer: 5 bands
  • Plug-in Insertion: Available when PLG100-VH installed in slot 1
• Effect Routing: Flexible assignment and chaining capabilities
• Effect Types: Reverb, delay, chorus, flange, phasing, distortion, amp simulation, rotary speaker, compressor, digital turntable, ring modulation, enhancer

Arpeggiator

• Preset Patterns:
  • Preset 1: 128 types
  • Preset 2: 128 types
• User Patterns: 128 types
• Features: MIDI Sync, MIDI transmit/receive channel, Velocity Limit, Note Limit settings
• Pattern Types: Up/down sequences, musical phrases, drum patterns, controller patterns
• Special Features: Pattern creation from Song sections

Physical Interface

• Keyboards:
  • MOTIF8: 88 keys, Balanced Hammer Effect Keyboard (Initial Touch/Aftertouch)
  • MOTIF7: 76 keys, FS Keyboard (Initial Touch/Aftertouch)
  • MOTIF6: 61 keys, FS Keyboard (Initial Touch/Aftertouch)
• Display: 240x64-dot graphic backlit LCD
• Real-time Controls: 4 assignable sliders, 4 assignable knobs, Rotary Encoder
• Wheels: Pitch bend and modulation wheels
• Transport Controls: Full sequencer transport
• Sound Selection: Category-based button layout

Connectivity

• Audio Outputs:
  • OUTPUT L/MONO, R (standard phone jacks)
  • ASSIGNABLE OUTPUT L, R (standard phone jacks)
• Audio Inputs: A/D INPUT L, R (standard phone jacks)
• Digital Output: OPTICAL OUTPUT
• MIDI: IN/OUT/THRU
• Computer Interface: USB
• Storage: SCSI, Smart Media (3.3V, up to 128MB)
• Control Inputs:
  • FOOT CONTROLLER 1, 2
  • FOOT SWITCH x 2 (SUSTAIN, ASSIGNABLE)
  • BREATH controller input
• Headphones: PHONES (standard stereo phone jack)
• Power: AC INLET

Expansion

PLG Slots: 3 internal slots

Available PLG Boards:

• PLG150-AN: Physical modeling synth
• PLG150-PF: Piano/harpsichord
• PLG150-VL: Virtual Acoustic modeling
• PLG100-DX: 6-operator FM synth
• PLG100-XG: 16-part GM/XG
• PLG150-V: Vocal Harmonizer/Effects

Optional Accessories

• AIEB2 Board: 6 balanced audio outputs, coaxial/optical S/PDIF I/O
• mLAN8E Board: 3-port FireWire interface
• Memory Expansion: SIMM modules up to 64MB total

Software Bundle

• Voice Editor for Motif: Professional voice editing and librarian
• Tiny Wave Editor: Sample editing software
• File Utility: Drag-and-drop file management via SmartMedia
• TOOLS for MOTIF6/MOTIF7/MOTIF8 CD-ROM: Complete software package
• Demo Software: Logic Audio and Cubase demos
• Acid Express: Loop software (PC only)
• Remote Drivers: Support for specified sequencing software

Master Keyboard Features

• Master Memories: 128
• Zones: Up to 4 per Master memory
• Zone Parameters: Key range, transposition, level, pan, Bank Select/Program Change
• Remote Control: Transport control for computer sequencers
• Supported Software:
  • Windows: Cubase VST V5.0, Logic Audio Platinum Ver4.6, Cakewalk Pro Audio Ver9.0, Pro Tools V5.0
  • Macintosh: Cubase VST V5.0, Logic Audio Platinum Ver4.6, Pro Tools V5.0
• MIDI Control: Track selection, muting, mixer parameter control

Dimensions & Weight:

• 1,255 x 397 x 135mm (W x D x H)
• 18.1kg

Power

• AC power cord supplied

Supplied Accessories:

• Power cord,
• Owner's Manual Set,
• TOOLS for MOTIF6/MOTIF7/MOTIF8 CD-ROM

File Formats

• MIDI: Standard MIDI files via SmartMedia (SMF format 0, 1 - Format 1 load only)
• Audio Samples: WAV, AIFF import/export
• Legacy Sample Formats: A3000/4000/5000/SU700 format (SCSI only), AKAI S1000/S3000 format (SCSI only)
• Storage Media: SmartMedia cards (3.3V, up to 128MB), SCSI drives
• Native Format: Original MOTIF format for sequences and samples

Tags: digital synthesizer