Yamaha MU15 Palm-Top MIDI Module

No longer available at zZounds
16-part multi-timbral capacity. Full 32-note polyphony.

The MU15 Palm-Top Tone Module is the most compact MIDI module we have ever offered. This compact unit is only the approximate size of a VHS tape yet contains 676 XG/General MIDI format sounds.

Along with MIDI In and Out, the MU15 provides a direct Serial Connection, making it ideal for use with a laptop. The XG sounds are fantastic, high-quality sounds. They provide a complete collection of sounds suitable for any style of music including 21 drum sets. Whether you need to lighten your rig's load for gigging or writing on the road (or literally in the car) or pick up the most affordable GM sound module anywhere, pick up the MU15.

The MU15 an advanced, yet easy-to-use tone generator providing exceptionally high-quality Voices, built-in effects, XG format and General MIDI (GM) compatibility, plus direct connection to computer - all in a highly compact and portable package.

With the built-in host computer interface and MIDI terminals, the MU15 is ideal for any computer music system - from connection to a simple laptop to integration in a complete MIDI studio. It even features a 2-octave keyboard (with adjustable ten-octave range), allowing you to play the internal Voices and enter notes to a connected sequencer. Since it's compatible with Yamaha's powerful XG format, it lets you faithfully and easily playback any XG or GM song data.

- High-quality XG Sounds in a take-along package

- Compact and portable

- Perfect for creating a portable system with a lap top computer read more

- 676 XG/GM instrument sounds and 21 Drum Kits in a compact VHs size body

- Large LCD display, direct to host serial interface and built-in keypad for ease of use
read less

Tone Generation Method: Advanced Wave Memory (AWM)

Polyphony: 28-note (Dynamic allocation)

Multi-timbral Capacity: 16-Part

Voice: 676 normal + 21 drum kits

Effect: Reverb x 11, Chorus x 11, Variation x 43

Demo Song: 1 (not editable, stored in ROM)

Display: Custom LCD (54.5 x 29.4 mm)

Jacks and Terminals: Line Out/ Phones (Stereo min: phone jack), To Host MIDI IN/OUT, DC In

Power Requirements: Optional Yamaha PA-3B or equivalent AC Power Adaptor 6 x 1.5V "AA" size (SUM-3 or R-6 or equivalent) batteries

Dimensions: Height 33mm (1-5/16 in.) x Width 188mm (7-3/8 in.) x Depth 104mm (4-1/8 in.)

Weight: 340 g (12.3 oz) (without batteries)

For support or warranty questions, please contact the manufacturer:
Phone: 714-522-9011
Web: https://usa.yamaha.com/support

Reviewers gave this product an overall rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars. (38 ratings)
Submitted September 24, 2004 by a customer from prodigy.net

"Great fun, but not for professionals."

Overall: 3.5 out of 5 stars
(see rating details)
Verified Customer zZounds has verified that this reviewer made a purchase from us.
This fills my current needs, for a basic multi-timbral, polyphonic sound module with a variety of sounds, and it is helping me learn how to use my various MIDI equipment. I will definitely buy another product sometime in the next two years that is larger and more pro-oriented.
Sound
All the sounds are good, though a lot of the voices are just minor alterations to basic sounds like piano, saxophone or whatever.
Features
The big thing it lacks is dedicated line output jacks. There is only a stereo headphone/output jack. I was also very disappointed to discover that 100 of the 676 advertised "voices" are available only if you control it from a computer.
Quality
I have not had the MU15 very long, but it looks like an average Walkman as far as constructiona and quality. I suspect that many of the controls will stop working after a year of repeated use. The volume control is a tiny slider - that is really ridiculous.
Value
It is definitely worth the price I paid for it, and its lower price matches its somewhat limited features.
The Wow Factor
It is fun, and sounds good, but it is not a professional tool.

Musical Background:

Active Musician

Musical Style:

Country & blues guitar, jazz and classical singer, experimental electronic composer
5 of 7 people (71%) people found this review helpful. Did you?
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