Media artist Toshio Iwai and Yamaha have collaborated to design a new digital musical instrument for the 21st century, TENORI-ON. A 16x16 matrix of LED switches allows everyone to play music intuitively, creating a "visible music" interface. The TENORI-ON is a unique 16 x 16 LED button matrix performance instrument with a stunning visual display. For DJs & producers it is a unique performance tool enabling them to perform using MIDI and load the TENORI-ON with samples to 'jam / improvise' within their set BPMs.

Extended information

- TENORI-ON “Modes”
The TENORI-ON 16 x 16 LED button matrix is simultaneously a performance input controller and display. By operating and interacting with the LED buttons and the light they produce you gain access to the TENORI-ON's numerous performance capabilities. The TENORI-ON provides six different performance and sound/light modes for broad performance versatility, and these modes can be combined and used simultaneously for rich, complex musical expression.

The Six Modes: Score Mode, Random Mode, Draw Mode, Bounce Mode, Push Mode and Solo Mode.

- Layers
TENORI-ON layers can be thought of as “performance parts” or “recording tracks.” The TENORI-ON has a total of 16 layers. Separate notes and voices can be assigned to each layer, and all layers can be played together in synchronization. The 16 layers are divided into six performance mode groups as shown in the illustration below. The six modes have different note entry methods and operation. Up to 16 layers created using different modes can be combined for rich, complex musical expression.

- Blocks
Once complete set of 16 layers is called a “block.” The TENORI-ON can store up to 16 programmed blocks (16-layer groups) in memory, and you can switch from block to block instantly during performance. You could, for example, create a musical composition in one block, then copy that composition to another block and edit it to create a variation of the original composition. Or you can load a number of previously-created compositions into separate blocks from an SD Memory Card and switch between them to create variation during playback.

Technical specifications

- Sequencer
Note Resolution ♪ = 96clocks
Gate Time 10 ms ~ 9990 ms
Octaves -5 ~ +5
Tempo (BPM) 40 ~ 240
Scales 9 types
Transpose -7 ~ +8
Performance Modes 6 types: Score, Random, Draw, Bounce, Push, Solo
Other Functions Clock, power-save, synchronized performance with two instruments, recording, TENORI-ON song playback
Maximum Active Notes Push Mode: 64
Random Mode: 64 points
Draw Mode: 64 points

- Tone Generator
Tone Generator Type AWM2
Maximum Polyphony 32 notes
Preset Voices 253 (239 normal, 14 drum kit)
Effects 2 processors
Reverb: 10 types
Chorus: 5 types
Sampling 3 voices (Raw audio with a maximum length of 0.97 sec., up to 16 samples per voice)
* Using the supplied TENORI-ON User Voice Manager software.

- Card
Save: Song / Block / Layer / Setting / Sampling
Load: Song / Block / Layer / Setting / Sampling
Rename: Song / Block / Layer / Setting / Sampling
Delete: Song / Block / Layer / Setting / Sampling
Format

- Controller & Display
LED Buttons 256
Rear LED Display Points 256
Function Buttons 10 (L1 ~ L5, R1 ~ R5)
CLEAR, OK, CANCEL Buttons 1 each
Jog Dial
Display 122 x 32 dot graphic LCD device (yellow-green backlight), 20 characters x 4 lines, monochrome

- Sound
Stereo Speakers 1-watt output power

- Connectors
Line Out / Phones Stereo mini phone jack x 1
Mini DIN MIDI IN: for synchronized performance using two TENORI-ON instruments
MIDI OUT: for external device control
Card Slot SD Memory Card compatible
DC In Connector for PA-3C, PA-130 or equivalent Yamaha AC adaptor

- Power Supply
6 “AA” alkaline batteries Approx. 5 hours continuous playback.
AC Adaptor PA-3C, PA-130 or equivalent Yamaha AC adaptor

- Dimensions & Weight
Dimensions 205 x 205 x 32 mm
Weight 650 grams (without batteries)

- Supplied Accessories
Mini DIN cable, CD-ROM x 1, AC Adaptor (PA-3C, PA-130 or equivalent Yamaha AC adaptor), Quick Guide, Installation Guide, Precautions, Warranty