Yamaha GW50 Owner's Manual
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Yamaha GW50 Owner's Manual

Yamaha guitar performance effector owner's manual
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  • Page 2 If these corrective measures do not produce satisfactory results, please contact the local retailer authorized to distribute this type of product. If you can not locate the appropriate retailer, please contact Yamaha Corporation of America, Electronic Service Division, 6600 Orangethorpe Ave, Buena Park, CA 90620 The above statements apply ONLY to those products distributed by Yamaha Corporation of America or its subsidiaries.

  • Page 3: Special Message Section

    This product should be used only with the components supplied, or a cart, rack, or stand that is recommended by Yamaha. If a cart, etc., is used, please observe all safety markings and instructions that accompany the accessory product.
  • Page 4 The dual functions — effects and backing — make the GW50 useful in a wide range of applications, from live performance and studio use to home recording and individual music practice.

  • Page 5: Memory Backup

    Also make sure that the adaptor you have is appropriate for the AC mains supply voltage in the area where you intend to use the GW50. (The correct input voltage is marked on the adaptor.) USE ONLY APPROPRIATE FOOT...

  • Page 6: Midi Cables

    Since the GW50 contains digital circuitry, it may cause interference and noise if placed too close to TV sets, radios or similar equipment. If such a problem occurs, move the GW50 further away from the affected equipment. MIDI CABLES When connecting the GW50 to other MIDI...

  • Page 7: Table Of Contents

    WHAT IT IS AND WHAT IT CAN DO ... PANEL CONTROLS AND TERMINALS ... ASSIGNABLE BLOCK AND PEDAL SWITCH FUNCTIONS ... GUIDED TOUR (TUTORIAL) — SETTING UP, PLAYING AND USING YOUR GW50 SETTING UP AND PLAYING YOUR GW50 ... DEMO MODE — PLAYING THE DEMONSTRATION SONGS ...
  • Page 8 MEMORY EDIT MODE ... Compare Mode (Comparing the Edited Program with the Original) ... Saving the Memory Edit Mode Settings to an Effect Program ... Recalling the Settings of the Original Program (in Compare Condition) ... MEMORY JOB MODE ... Copying an Effect Program ...
  • Page 9 (TUNER/MIDI) TUNER MODE ... MIDI ... 101 MIDI BULK TRANSMISSION MODE ... 102 CHANGING EFFECT PROGRAMS ON THE GW50 FROM A CONNECTED DEVICE ... 103 CHANGING PROGRAMS ON A CONNECTED DEVICE FROM THE GW50 ... TURNING INDIVIDUAL EFFECTS ON AND OFF FROM A CONNECTED DEVICE ...

  • Page 10: How To Use This Manual

    HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL You are probably eager to try out your new GW50 right away and hear what it can do, rather than have to read through a lot of instructions before you can even get a sound out of it.
  • Page 11 THE GW50: WHAT IT IS AND WHAT IT CAN DO THE GW50: WHAT IT IS AND WHAT IT CAN DO WHAT IT IS … Effect and Backing Sections The GW50 is actually two different devices in one. On the one hand, it has an Effect section which provides high-quality and easy-to-use multi effects designed especially for processing electric guitar.
  • Page 12 •Delay (Tap) •Pitch •Delay Shifter +Reverb •Flanger •Phaser THE GW50: WHAT IT IS AND WHAT IT CAN DO THE GW50: WHAT IT IS AND WHAT IT CAN DO COMPARE MODE Main modes Memory Effect Program write (store) There are 50 factory preset memory effect programs.
  • Page 13 Now that you have a basic idea of how the GW50 can help you in your music, go on to the GUIDED TOUR (TUTORIAL), and learn how to set up and use your GW50.

  • Page 14: Panel Controls And Terminals

    PANEL CONTROLS AND TERMINALS This section shows and explains all of the controls and terminals of the GW50. Since the explanations below are fairly brief, you should turn to the page references given for more information on individual buttons and features.

  • Page 15: Top Panel

    PANEL CONTROLS AND TERMINALS TOP PANEL • For selecting the different effect types available in each effect block. These are active only in the Manual and Memory Edit modes. (See pages 26, 44.) • For adjusting the main parameters of the ef- fects.
  • Page 16 • With [SHIFT]: For calling up the MIDI Bulk Transmission operation. (See page 102.) • For selecting the miscellaneous Utility func- tions of the GW50: CONNECT — For determining the order of the effect blocks. (See page 45.) GROUP — For simultaneously switching several effect blocks on/off.
  • Page 17 PANEL CONTROLS AND TERMINALS >> • After pressing [SHIFT] + [SUB PARAM]: Calls up Chorus Sub parameters. • In Connect and Group functions: Selects Chorus effect block. • In Song mode: For moving to the top of the next measure. Hold down for rapid operation. •...
  • Page 18 In Song/Pattern mode: For decreasing the value at the cursor position (for example, Tempo or Pattern). In Memory mode: For moving backward through the effect programs, one by one (when the cursor arrow is not shown in the display). In Manual and Memory Edit mode (sub pa- rameters, MIN VOL, and AUTO VOL): For decreasing the value of the selected sub parameter (when the cursor arrow is at the...

  • Page 19: Assignable Block And Pedal Switch Functions

    PANEL CONTROLS AND TERMINALS LCD Display 1 INPUT PEAK indicator — for monitoring the input signal level (lights continuously when level is too high). 2 BANK/MEMORY indicator — displays the memory bank and program numbers. When selecting songs, this briefly displays the song number.
  • Page 20 The Pedal Switches have many different functions, depending on the ASSIGNABLE block settings (indicated by the LEDs in the ASSIGNABLE block) and the selected mode. The following panel illus- trations and explanations should help you in understanding how the Pedal Switches are used. When switching on/off individual effect blocks (or Groups) is enabled —...
  • Page 21 PANEL CONTROLS AND TERMINALS With BACKING CONTROL selected — When pattern is stopped: Decreases pattern Increases pattern number by 2 number by 2 (every (every other odd other odd numbered numbered pattern). pattern). When pattern is playing back: Decreases pattern Increases pattern number by 2 number by 2...
  • Page 22 With BACKING CONTROL selected — When song is stopped: Decreases song Increases song number by 1. number by 1. When song is playing back: With CHORD RECALL selected — Plays chord 1. Plays chord 2. Moves to previous Moves to next measure.
  • Page 23 PANEL CONTROLS AND TERMINALS * The following chart shows which ASSIGNABLE Block functions are available in which modes. Also refer to the section “ASSIGNABLE BLOCK AND PEDAL SWITCH FUNCTIONS CHART” on page 128. ASSIGNABLE Block function MEMORY: BANK/NUMBER select MEMORY: ON/OFF MIN/MAX VOLUME AUTO VOLUME BACKING CONTROL...

  • Page 24: Rear Panel

    Connect both of these to the corresponding left and right channels of your stereo amplification system to take full advan- tage of the stereo effects of the GW50. For mono operation, connect your system to the L/L+R jack; this provides a mono mix of the instrument/effect sound.
  • Page 25 PANEL CONTROLS AND TERMINALS For connection of an optional foot controller (Yamaha FC7), for controlling certain functions and parameters as you play. (See page 46.) For connection of MIDI cables, when using the GW50 with other MIDI devices. (See page 101.)
  • Page 26 GUIDED TOUR (TUTORIAL) — SETTING UP, PLAYING AND USING YOUR GW50 PLAYING WITH SOME OF THE EFFECTS ... CHANGING THE SOUND OF THE EFFECTS ... CHANGING (EDITING) AN EFFECT PROGRAM AND SAVING IT ... USING THE NOISE GATE TO GET A CLEAN SIGNAL ...
  • Page 27 GUIDED TOUR (TUTORIAL) SETTING UP AND PLAYING YOUR GW50...

  • Page 28: Setting Up And Playing Your Gw50

    SETTING UP AND PLAYING YOUR GW50 Once you’ve taken your GW50 out of the box and are ready to use it, follow the simple instructions below in making the connections and setting it up. First, make sure that the power switch on the GW50 is off before making ANY connec- tions.
  • Page 29 L/L + R jack or the L/L + R and R jacks. You can also listen to the GW50 through a set of headphones. Connect them to the PHONES jack on the rear panel.
  • Page 30 Note: To set the controls on the GW50 to minimum, turn them all the way counterclockwise. Turn on the power of all the equipment, starting with the GW50, then the connected amplifier. * Adjust the LCD SETTING switch on the rear panel to set the LCD for proper view- ing.

  • Page 31: Demo Mode — Playing The Demonstration Songs

    GUIDED TOUR (TUTORIAL) DEMO MODE — The GW50 features a special Demo mode that showcases some of the interesting things that can be accomplished by using the Backing patterns and the song recording functions. The Song Demo plays continuously through preset songs 1 to 6, while the Pattern Demo plays various patterns in succession.
  • Page 32 To stop the Demo, press [SET-B] (below “STOP” in the display) or [START/STOP] (or any of the mode buttons). Note: All the songs or patterns play in succession indefinitely until stopped. Note:While the Demo mode is called up, other functions are not active. DEMO MODE —...

  • Page 33: Effect Section

    The GW50 is equipped with a comprehensive set of effects designed specifically for the guitar player. As you’ll see below, the GW50 lets you switch these effects on and off as needed and adjust them quickly and easily from the panel controls and Pedal Switches.
  • Page 34 Now, try a heavy distortion sound. Use the [–]/[+] buttons again, this time selecting program number 74. Next, let’s call up a classic rock’n’roll delay effect. This time though, use the Pedal Switches to select the program. (If the MEMORY LED in the ASSIGNABLE Block is flashing, press the ASSIGNABLE Block Pedal Switch to make it light continuously.) Press Pedal Switch 1.

  • Page 35: Changing The Sound Of The Effects

    GUIDED TOUR (TUTORIAL) CHANGING THE SOUND OF THE EFFECTS The effect section of the GW50 has three basic modes: Manual, Memory and Memory Edit. In this section we’ll use the Manual mode, since it provides a convenient starting point for adjusting and creating effects.
  • Page 36 Try playing your guitar now, and as you play, adjust the SPEED control in the CHORUS block and listen to how the sound changes. The Speed parameter is shown in the LCD, along with the value. Notice how the value changes as you turn the knob.
  • Page 37 GUIDED TOUR (TUTORIAL) Use the five switches just below the LCD (labeled CMP, DST, EQ, CHO and REV) to select the order of the corresponding effects. Note: Compressor, Distortion and Equalizer can only be selected for the first three effects, while Chorus and Reverb/Delay are always the last two.

  • Page 38: Changing (Editing) An Effect Program And Saving It

    CHANGING (EDITING) AN EFFECT PROGRAM AND SAVING IT In this section, you’ll learn how to take an existing effect program in the Memory mode and “tweak” it, or change its sound. You’ll also learn how to compare it with the original program. Finally, you’ll learn how to recall that original program or save your newly created one.
  • Page 39 GUIDED TOUR (TUTORIAL) Switch between the original program and your newly edited as often as you like by pressing [EDIT/COMPARE]. You have two choices here: 1) you can recall the original program (and erase your changes), or 2) you can store your changes to the current program number (and erase the original one).

  • Page 40: Using The Noise Gate To Geta Clean Signal

    USING THE NOISE GATE TO GET A CLEAN SIGNAL Since all its effects are connected internally, the GW50 generates no noise of its own. However, since the guitar and connecting cord you use may not be as quiet as the...

  • Page 41: Backing Section

    GUIDED TOUR (TUTORIAL) BACKING SECTION The Backing section of the GW50 is divided into two modes: Pattern and Song. PLAYING PATTERNS — PATTERN MODE The Pattern mode lets you play various rhythm and accompaniment patterns in a wide variety of styles. The patterns feature...
  • Page 42 Now, let’s change chords while the pattern is playing. The automatic chord features of the GW50 are very sophisticated, so for the moment we’ll show you one of the easiest ways to change chords — by using the Pedal Switches.
  • Page 43 (each button has more than one root note), press it again until the note is selected. Next, let’s change the chord type. Remember that the GW50 gives you a total 25 different chord types for all keys. These chord types are shown below the Chord buttons.
  • Page 44 Finally, you can even change the bass note. First, simultaneously hold [CHORD] and press [on/ROOT]. Next, press the Chord button corresponding to the desired note (written above the button). Press it repeatedly until the note you want is shown in the LCD. For example, to use C as the bass note, press [C/C ] until the “/C ”...

  • Page 45: Playing And Recording Songs - Song Mode

    GUIDED TOUR (TUTORIAL) PLAYING AND RECORDING SONGS — SONG MODE The Song mode has eight songs (made up of the patterns in the Pattern mode) for playing. You can also record your own songs in this mode, using the patterns and chords of the Pattern mode.
  • Page 46 Songs can be recorded by using two different methods: Realtime recording and Step recording. Realtime recording is similar to using a multitrack tape recorder; you can hear the events as you record them, and you can hear previously recorded events as you record new ones on top. Step recording, on the other hand, allows you to record events one-by-one, using the controls on the panel to “program”...
  • Page 47 For this example, let’s use pattern number 5, and start the song out with a C major chord. You can do this while the GW50 is still in record standby: Move the cursor arrow in the display to the PTN box, by using [->...

  • Page 48: Using The Built-In Tuner

    USING THE BUILT-IN TUNER The GW50 has a convenient built-in tuner that lets you tune your guitar without having to disconnect it. Simultaneously hold down [SHIFT] and press [TUNER] (or simultaneously press and hold don Pedal Switches 1 and 2 until the Tuner mode display “...
  • Page 49 Switches). This concludes our short tour of some of the functions of the GW50. To find out more about using your GW50, look through the Reference section now and read some of the topics that interest y o u .
  • Page 50 ABOUT THE MANUAL, MEMORY AND MEMORY EDIT MODES ... MANUAL MODE ... Selecting an Effect Type ... Turning Individual Effects On and Off... Editing Parameters ... Utility Functions ... Determining the Order of the Effect Blocks — CONNECT ... Bypass Switching of Effect Blocks — GROUP ...
  • Page 51 ABOUT THE MANUAL, MEMORY AND MEMORY EDIT MODES EFFECT SECTION ABOUT THE MANUAL, MEMORY AND MEMORY EDIT MODES...

  • Page 52: Memory Edit Modes

    To select the Manual mode, press [MANUAL]. (“MANUAL” appears in the display.) In the Memory mode, you can select effect programs. The GW50 has 50 programs in its internal memory, divided into ten banks of five programs each. The parameter knobs cannot be used here, except to check the set values of the main parameters (see page 51).

  • Page 53: Manual Mode

    MANUAL MODE EFFECT SECTION The Distortion, Equalizer, Chorus and Reverb/ Delay effect blocks feature different effect types. Press the Type switch to step through the available effects. The LED of the selected effect lights. When not assigned to a group, individual effect blocks can be turned on and off in the Manual mode.

  • Page 54: Utility Functions

    Exit this operation by pressing any of the mode buttons ( FOR EASIER EDITING—You can easily switch back and forth between editing main and sub parameters in any of the effects by first selecting HINT the sub parameters (as done in step #1 above). After that, you can edit the main parameters as usual, and switch back to the sub parameters at any time by pressing the appropriate effect selec-...

  • Page 55: Setting The Function Of The External Foot Controller - Foot

    MANUAL MODE The Foot function here determines how the con- nected foot controller (the optional Yamaha FC7) is to be used: whether for realtime control over certain effect parameters, or as a volume pedal. From the Manual mode, repeatedly press the Utility button until “FOOT”...

  • Page 56: Min Vol

    Note: When selecting Wah Pedal and control of other parameters for the foot controller, make sure that the foot controller is properly connected to the GW50. Note: When using the connected foot controller as a — For using volume pedal (see previous page), you can set the minimum volume for the controller from the GW50.

  • Page 57: Assignable Block Functions - Min/Max Volume And Auto Volume

    MANUAL MODE EFFECT SECTION The ASSIGNABLE Block Pedal Switch has two volume-related functions: MIN/MAX Volume and Auto Volume. (These are available in all modes — Manual, Memory and Memory Edit.) Select one of them by pressing the ASSIGNABLE Block Type switch.

  • Page 58: Setting The Auto Volume Rate -

    The LED stops flashing and remains lit when the fade up is complete and the volume is at maximum. LED flashes Press and hold Release Pedal Pedal Switch Switch Applications of this would include imitating the slow attack of other instrument sounds like a softly-bowed violin, or a pedal steel HINT guitar.

  • Page 59: Manual Job Mode

    Controller, Minimum Volume, Auto Volume) Note: When you save the settings in the Manual mode to an effect program, the GW50 auto- matically gives it a name, starting with the let- ters “MEM” and followed by the bank number and memory number to which it has been saved (e.g., “MEM 15”).

  • Page 60: Memory Mode

    Select the Memory mode by pressing (even if the MEMORY LED is lit). Use the buttons to step up or down through the programs in order, or use the Pedal Switches. (See page 11 for more details on using the Pedal Switches.) The effect program name appears in the LCD.

  • Page 61: Bypass Switching Of Effect Blocks

    MEMORY MODE EFFECT SECTION The Pedal Switches can also be used to bypass or activate individual effect blocks or the assigned effect Group. In the Memory mode, press the Type switch in the ASSIGNABLE Block until the MEMORY LED is lit. To select bypass operation, press the AS- SIGNABLE Block Pedal Switch twice quickly.

  • Page 62: Memory Edit Mode

    MEMORY EDIT MODE The Memory Edit mode is similar to the Manual mode in that all effect parameters can be edited and the resulting program stored to memory. However, the Memory Edit mode uses an existing effect program’s parameters as the basic “material” for editing; the new program you create by editing in the Memory Edit mode can be saved to the currently selected program number.

  • Page 63: Recalling The Settings Of The Original Program (In Compare Condition)

    MEMORY MODE EFFECT SECTION At any time during editing, you can recall the settings of the original program. Keep in mind, however, that this permanently erases whatever edits you have made. To recall the original program settings, simply press either the Compare condition (the EDIT/COMPARE LED is flashing).

  • Page 64: Swapping One Effect Program With Another

    B] to save the effect program before naming it. (When you save the settings in the Manual mode to an effect program, the GW50 automatically gives it a name, starting with the letters “MEM” and followed by the bank number and memory number to which it has been saved.) If you are editing in the Memory Edit...

  • Page 65: Using An External Footswitch

    Press to the desired mode. The name is automati- cally saved to the program. An optional external footswitch (the Yamaha FC5 or FC4) can be used to perform certain operations, letting you execute the selected operation without having to use the appropriate panel controls.

  • Page 66: Restoring Factory Preset Effect Programs

    Turn off the power of the GW50. Simultaneously hold down turn the power back on. The MEMORY LED and the BANK/MEMORY indicator both flash.

  • Page 67: Selecting An Effect Type

    EFFECTS AND PARAMETERS EFFECT SECTION EFFECTS AND PARAMETERS This section briefly explains each of the effect types and their parameters. For information on how to select effects and edit the main and sub parameters, see the sections “Selecting an Effect Type,” “Editing Parameters”...

  • Page 68: Distortion

    DISTORTION The Distortion block features five different distortion effects, some of which recreate the same warm distortion as that of a tube ampflifier. Dist 1 is a general-purpose distortion sound, Dist 2 provides a warm, tube amplifier sound, Dist 3 has a hard “edgy”...
  • Page 69 EFFECTS AND PARAMETERS EFFECT SECTION The Equalizer effect is a highly versatile and flexible four-band parametric equalizer that in- cludes bandwidth (Q) controls on the Lo Mid and Hi Mid frequencies. HIGH (500 Hz – 12 kHz) LMID F, HMID F (80 Hz – 12 kHz) LOW F (40 Hz –...
  • Page 70 OUTPUT — Range: 0 ~ 200% Determines the level of the processed sound. Settings above 100% are used for boosting the signal to an appropriate level to compensate for equalizer adjustments that bring the overall signal level down. Wah is a filter sweep effect that, as its name implies, produces a “wah”...
  • Page 71 EFFECTS AND PARAMETERS EFFECT SECTION (controlled with the second knob from the left, when Auto is selected) — Range: 0.4 ~ 6.4 Hz Determines the speed of the filter sweep cycle. CENTER — Range: 125 Hz ~ 9.0 kHz Determines the center frequency of the Wah effect.

  • Page 72: Chorus

    Note: This parameter is for adjusting the high gain of the two-band EQ, which is independent of the Amp Simulator effect. MIX — Range: 0 ~ 100% Determines the balance between the dry (direct) and processed signals. A setting of 0% outputs only the dry signal, and a setting of 100% outputs only the processed sound.
  • Page 73 EFFECTS AND PARAMETERS EFFECT SECTION Two chorus effects are provided: Chorus 1 fea- tures both pitch and volume modulation for an animated sound, while Chorus 2 provides a richer, more spacious effect. — Range: 0.03 ~ 6.18 Hz Determines the speed of the pitch modulation. BRIL (controlled with the center knob) —...
  • Page 74 Range: 0 ~ 99% Determines the amount of regeneration of the left signal’s delayed repeats. The higher the value, the greater the number of repeats. Since the pitch shift is applied to each delayed repeat, each successive repeat has a different pitch. DL TIM, P R Range: 0.1 ~ 10 ms Determines the time that the right pitch-shifted...

  • Page 75: Reverb/Delay

    EFFECTS AND PARAMETERS EFFECT SECTION R TIME — Range: 0.1 ~ 12.0 ms Determines the time that the signal is delayed before applying the flanger to the right channel. DRY — Range: 0 ~ 100% Determines the level of the dry sound. A setting of 0% results in no direct sound output.
  • Page 76 (If Delay has not been selected, pressing the Pedal Switch for tap delay will not set the delay time, but will simply turn the effect on and off.) The GW50 automatically sets the delay time to match the time between presses of the Pedal Switch.
  • Page 77 QUANTIZE FUNCTION ON TAP DELAY—The GW50 has a convenient “quantize” function that works with the backing rhythm patterns HINT to keep your tap delay settings in time with the rhythm.

  • Page 78: Noise Gate

    RV TYP — Settings: Hall, Room, Plate RV TIM — Range: 0.3 ~ 10.0 sec RV LOW — Range: –3 ~ +6 dB NOISE GATE Noise Gate is a separate effect that is placed before the Chorus and Reverb/Delay effects, and is used to eliminate any noise or hum in the signal when the instrument isn’t being played.
  • Page 79 EFFECTS AND PARAMETERS EFFECT SECTION...

  • Page 80: Muting The Accompaniment, Bass And

    Selecting and Playing Patterns ... Cursor Control in Pattern Mode ... Changing Chords ... Changing the Tempo ... Muting the Accompaniment, Bass and Drums ... ASSIGNABLE Block and Pedal Switch Functions in Pattern Mode ... Backing Control ... Chord Recall ... Root Select ...
  • Page 81 PATTERN MODE BACKING SECTION PATTERN MODE...

  • Page 82: Selecting And Playing Patterns

    There are 248 preset patterns covering a wide variety of musical styles, and they feature realistic drum, bass and other accompaniment sounds. Combined with the sophisticated chord controls of the GW50, these preset patterns provide easy-to-use backing tracks for performing along with.

  • Page 83: Cursor Control In Pattern Mode

    Effect mode display. (The cursor arrow actually disappears from the LCD when the Effect mode display is selected.) The GW50 features a sophisticated automatic bass and accompaniment function that automatically and instantly adds matching bass lines and chord voicings according to the chords you specify here.
  • Page 84 To change the chord type, simultaneously hold and press the Chord button correspond- ing to the desired type (written below the button). Press it repeatedly until the desired chord type is shown in the LCD. This is used when you want to have the bass play a note other than the root.

  • Page 85: Muting The Accompaniment, Bass And Drums

    PATTERN MODE BACKING SECTION major minor seventh Madd9 madd9 major minor ninth added ninth added ninth sus4 suspended minor sixth seventh fourth sharp ninth 7sus4 7+11 seventh minor seventh suspended major sharp fourth seventh eleventh m7-5 diminshed minor thirteenth seventh flatted fifth Note: A fingering chart for all these chords (in the key of C) is provided on page 152.

  • Page 86: Assignable Block And Pedal Switch Functions In Pattern Mode

    The Pedal Switches can be used in the Pattern mode either to select and play patterns (Backing Control) or to change chords (Chord Recall). USING ASSIGNABLE BLOCK PEDAL SWITCH TO SWITCH BETWEEN BACKING CONTROL AND CHORD RECALL—Although the Type HINT switch in the ASSIGNABLE Block is normally used to select Backing Control and Chord Recall, you can use the ASSIGNABLE Block...

  • Page 87: Changing Chords

    99) to tune the instrument. Keep in mind that this function is not in- stantaneous; a short time is necessary for the GW50 to “hear” the pitch of the note HINT and respond accordingly. Play around with this function to get a feel for the response time before you try using it in performance.

  • Page 88: Song Play Mode (Song Playback)

    In the Song modes, you can select and play preset songs. You can also use the sequencer functions to record and create your own songs. To select the Song mode, press [SONG/PATTERN] so that the SONG LED lights. (The current song name briefly appears in the display.) The operations covered in this section on the Song mode pertain specifically to the Song mode.

  • Page 89: Cursor Control In Song Mode

    Note: Although you can change the displayed chord and pattern number, this has no effect on song playback, since the GW50 returns to the origi- nally programmed chord and pattern number before starting the song. For more information on entering these and other types of events, see STEP RECORDING, page 88.)

  • Page 90: Position Controls

    These are used to move the position indicator in the Measure/Event section of the display in Song play. Reverse one measure. (Hold down for continuous rapid operation.) Forward one 16th note. (Hold down for continuous rapid operation.) Forward one measure. Reverse one (Hold down for 16th note.

  • Page 91: Assignable Block And Pedal Switch Functions In Song Mode

    Play a note on the connected instrument. If the input level of the GW50 has been set appropriately and the note is not too low, the song will start.

  • Page 92: Recording And Editing Songs

    RECORDING AND EDITING SONGS Virtually all of the functions of the Pattern mode — including selecting patterns, changing chords, muting and turning on backing tracks, etc. — can be pro- grammed into a song for completely automatic playback. You can also have effect programs auto- matically change within a song, as well as the on/off (bypass) setting of individual effects.
  • Page 93 Note: Generally, you should start recording at the beginning of a song, since the GW50 needs to recognize both a chord and a pattern to start playback. If the starting measures of a song are empty, but there is pattern data in later meas- ures, the GW50 automatically provides a default chord (C) and the METRO pattern (No.
  • Page 94 If no such events are recorded at the beginning of the song, the GW50 simply plays back the current settings. Thus, the start of the song (up until the properly entered data) may not sound as you expect.

  • Page 95: Assignable Block And Pedal Switch Functions In Song Realtime Recording

    SONG MODE BACKING SECTION Backing Control cannot be selected in Realtime Recording mode. Only Chord Recall is available here. When using select the Realtime Recording mode, Chord Recall will automatically be selected. The pre-assigned chords in the Pattern mode can be used here.

  • Page 96: Hints On Realtime Recording

    ENSURING PROPER SONG ENDING—Keep in mind that the end of the song is not the point at which you pressed [START/STOP] HINT to end recording, but is determined by the last event entered in the song. In the example shown below, the last event recorded to a song is a chord change, and [START/STOP] was pressed to end record- ing several measures after that.

  • Page 97: Step Recording Mode (Step Recording)

    “overdub” additional events as you wish. MUTE, BASS NOTE, AND RETRIGGER—The various automatic accompaniment and re- cording features of the GW50 make it possi- HINT ble to easily create polished, complex com- positions. Here are three important tools...
  • Page 98 Data Type Method of Entry Patterns (including By panel controls Fill In, Ending) only. Chords By panel controls only. Backing By panel controls. (Accompaniment, Bass, Drums) mute status Note: ABOUT TEMPO CHANGES AND RECORDING—Tempo changes themselves cannot be recorded. However, the tempo of the song can be changed manually, either before, during or after recording of a song, and the last tempo setting made is the one that is...

  • Page 99: Song Edit Mode (Song Editing)

    (by using the Position Controls), you can also check what event or events have been recorded at the position. The various types of events are indicated on the GW50 as follows: SONG EDIT MODE (SONG EDITING)
  • Page 100 LEDs in the effect blocks indicate the current state of the Effect section of the GW50. Let’s say, for example, that effect program number 12 has been recorded at the start of a...

  • Page 101: Editing (Changing) Recorded Events

    SONG MODE BACKING SECTION Note: When at a position where no event exists and you press any of the four main position controls ([n], [ v], [ /], or [ m]), the currently active pat- tern number, mute status, pattern name, and chord appear in the display.

  • Page 102: Loop (Repeat) Recording (A To B)

    Indicates repeat function. Use the Position Controls to move to the starting position in the song, at or before measure B. Press to begin playback. Playback will start from the point selected, continue to measure B, go back to measure A, and repeat between A and B indefinitely.

  • Page 103: Song Job Mode

    SONG MODE BACKING SECTION Press to begin recording. Recording will start from the point selected, continue to measure B, go back to measure A, and repeat between A and B indefinitely. SONG JOB MODE This function allows you to copy the data between the two marked measures to another location in the song.

  • Page 104: Naming Songs

    RESTORING FACTORY PRESET SONGS If you’ve erased one of the factory songs by replacing it with one of your own creation, this function lets you restore the original song. Turn off the power of the GW50. Measures to delete SONG MODE BACKING SECTION...
  • Page 105 SONG MODE BACKING SECTION Press (below “GO”) to restore the song, or press (below “EXIT”) to abort the operation. (You can also abort the operation by using any of the mode buttons: You can continue loading successive factory songs by repeating steps #3 and #4 above as necessary.

  • Page 106: (Tuner/Midi)

    (TUNER/MIDI) TUNER MODE ... MIDI ... 101 MIDI BULK TRANSMISSION MODE ... 102 CHANGING EFFECT PROGRAMS ON THE GW50 FROM A CONNECTED DEVICE ... 103 CHANGING PROGRAMS ON A CONNECTED DEVICE FROM THE GW50 ... TURNING INDIVIDUAL EFFECTS ON AND OFF FROM A CONNECTED DEVICE ...
  • Page 107 TUNER MODE OTHER FUNCTIONS...

  • Page 108: Tuner Mode

    The built-in Tuner lets you tune your instrument simply and quickly without having to remove it from the INPUT jack. Operation — Simultaneously hold down [SHIFT] and press [TUNER] (or simultaneously press and hold down Pedal Switches 1 and 2 until the Tuner mode display “PITCH”...
  • Page 109 TUNER MODE OTHER FUNCTIONS LCD Indications –50 cents (or no signal) +50 cents between –40 and –50 cents between +40 and +50 cents between –30 and –40 cents between +30 and +40 cents between –20 and –30 cents between +20 and +30 cents between –5 and –20 cents between +5 and +20 cents –4 cents*...

  • Page 110: Midi

    * MIDI Bulk Transmission — for storing effect program, song data, and other settings to another MIDI data storage device. * Program change reception — for changing effect programs on the GW50 from another MIDI device. * Program change transmission — for changing programs on another MIDI device from the GW50.

  • Page 111: Midi Bulk Transmission Mode

    (Refer to the owner’s manual of the device you are using for more information.) Connect the Yamaha MDF2 MIDI Data Filer to the GW50 as shown in MIDI connection example A on page 101. Prepare the MDF2 for receiving MIDI data.

  • Page 112: Changing Effect Programs On The Gw50 From A Connected Device

    Note: Single song data (“1SONG”) can be received only if the destination song number on the GW50 is empty. If song data exists at the number, the message “SONG EXISTS” appears. Select an empty song or delete the current song before continuing. Also, keep in mind that types of data other than “1SONG”...

  • Page 113: Changing Programs On A Connected Device From The Gw50

    MIDI foot controller (such as the Yamaha MFC06 MIDI Foot Controller) can also be used for this purpose. CHANGING PROGRAMS ON A CONNECTED DEVICE FROM THE GW50 MIDI to GW50 Program Number Correspondence Since the program numbering system of the...

  • Page 114: Synchronizing Another Device With The Gw50

    Backing parts of the GW50. In this way, you can add other instru- mental parts from the tone generator (such as melodies, riffs, etc.) to the accompani- ment, bass and drum patterns of the GW50.

  • Page 115: Using The Backing Patterns To Play Other Sound Modules

    Also, set its operation to “external sync” or the equivalent, (refer to the owner’s manual of the device for details). Now, select a song or pattern on the GW50 and press rhythm machine or sequencer will play back in perfect synchronization with the Backing parts of the GW50.
  • Page 116 Note: PROBLEMS WITH PATTERN CHANGES—If there pattern song, the accompaniment sounds of the GW50 may change (in an extreme example, from guitar to strings when changing from a rock pattern to a ballad). However, the tone generator will not change but continue to play the accompaniment sound which was set for the start of the song.
  • Page 117 MIDI OTHER FUNCTIONS...

  • Page 118: Appendices

    APPENDICES ERROR MESSAGES ... TROUBLESHOOTING ... SPECIFICATIONS ... 117 INDEX ...
  • Page 119 ERROR MESSAGES APPENDICES ERROR MESSAGES...

  • Page 120: Error Messages

    The GW50 monitors the battery voltage only once (when the power is turned on), and if there is a problem with the battery, one of the following battery-related error messages will appear. This indicates that the voltage of the battery is low.
  • Page 121 ERROR MESSAGES APPENDICES This appears when Song recording is in standby and some other incompatible operation (such as selecting the Bulk Dump or Tuner functions) has been attempted. Exit the Song recording by press- ing [SONG/PATTERN], and then attempt the operation again.
  • Page 122 This appears when the MIDI buffer is full (when too much MIDI data is being received at one time). When transmitting Bulk Data from the MIDI storage device (such as the Yamaha MDF2 MIDI Data Filer), set a relatively long interval time between data blocks on that device.

  • Page 123: Troubleshooting

    APPENDICES TROUBLESHOOTING Even though the GW50 is exceptionally easy to use, it may occasionally not function as you expect it to. Note that the problems covered here are not malfunctions of the GW50. (Also refer to the “ERROR MESSAGES” section.) PROBLEM The instrument (guitar) sound cannot be heard.
  • Page 124 Reverb/Delay blocks are set to appropriate levels. Also check your connected amplifier. If you are getting too much distortion, check that the GW50 is connected to the clean channel and not to the distortion channel. Make sure that either the Manual mode or Memory Edit mode has been selected.
  • Page 125 Use the LCD SETTING switch on the rear panel to set the LCD for proper viewing. Set it to FLOOR when you are using the GW50 on the floor, and to DESKTOP when you have it set on a table or desk in front of you.

  • Page 126: Specifications

    EFFECT SECTION Memory 1 Manual effect and 50 Memory effect programs (factory-set/user-programmable) Effect Types Compressor Distortion Distortion 1 – 4, Overdrive Equalizer 4-band Equalizer, Wah (Auto/ Touch/Pedal) + 2-band Equalizer, Amp Simulator (Stack/Combo/Tube) + 2 band Equalizer Chorus Chorus 1, 2, Pitch Shifter, Flanger, Phaser Reverb/Delay Reverb, Delay (Tap), Delay + Reverb Noise Gate...
  • Page 127 SPECIFICATIONS APPENDICES MIDI Terminals MIDI IN, MIDI OUT Other Controls, Fittings Input level, Backing output level, headphones level, LCD contrast switch (LCD SETTING), DC IN jack, power switch, AC adaptor cord holder Power Supply Supplied PA-3 AC adaptor Dimensions (W 56 mm (19 5/8"...

  • Page 128: Copying An Effect Program

    Accompaniment part ... 76 AMD ... 64 Amp Simulator + EQ ... 63 ASSIGNABLE Block and Pedal Switch functions in Memory mode ... 11, 51 in Pattern mode ... 12, 77 in Realtime recording ... 13, 86 in Song mode ... 13, 77, 86 ASSIGNABLE Block Pedal Switch, using to switch between Backing Control and Chord Recall ...
  • Page 129 INDEX APPENDICES editing effect parameters, in Manual mode ... 44 editing recorded events ... 92 effect blocks ... 24 effect blocks bypass switching (GROUP) ... 45 determining the order (CONNECT) ... 45 turning on and off ... 44 Effect Mix (Chorus 1, 2) ... 64 Effect Mix (Delay) ...

  • Page 130: Naming An Effect Program

    MIDI to GW50 program number correspondence ... 104 restoring GW50 data from MDF2 MIDI Data Filer ... 103 storing GW50 data to MDF2 MIDI Data Filer ... 102 synchronizing another device with GW50 ... 105 transmit channels for Backing parts and effect program changes ...

  • Page 131: Viewing Recorded Events

    INDEX APPENDICES recorded events editing ... 92 erasing ... 92 viewing ... 90 recording chord changes ... 85 recording songs ... 36 recording Backing mute events ... 83, 85, 86, 89 chord changes ... 83, 85, 89 effect on/off settings ... 83, 85, 86 effect program numbers ...
  • Page 132 BLOCK DIAGRAM ... JOB TABLE ... ASSIGNABLE BLOCK AND PEDAL SWITCH FUNCTIONS CHART ... 128 EFFECT PARAMETER CHART ... 130 FACTORY SET MEMORY EFFECT PROGRAM LIST ... MEMORY EFFECT PARAMETER LIST ... MANUAL EFFECT FACTORY SET PARAMETER CHART ... PRESET PATTERN LIST ... SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION DRUM AND PERCUSSION SOUNDS...
  • Page 133 BLOCK DIAGRAM SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION BLOCK DIAGRAM...

  • Page 134: Block Diagram

    BLOCK DIAGRAM SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION BLOCK DIAGRAM BLOCK DIAGRAM...

  • Page 135: Effect Program Selection

    JOB TABLE SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION JOB TABLE * In this chart, a plus mark between two button names (for example, SHIFT + SUB PARAM ) indicates that the two are to be pressed simultaneously. An arrow between buttons (for example, CURSOR —Main modes MANUAL mode—...
  • Page 136 JOB mode • WRITE (Save)— MANUAL + MEMORY ASSIGNABLE block functions • Effect ON/OFF • MIN/MAX VOLUME • AUTO VOLUME EDIT mode— EDIT/COMPARE • Same as MANUAL mode (including ASSIGNABLE block functions) • Save— MANUAL or MEMORY JOB mode • COPY •...

  • Page 137: Assignable Block And Pedal Switch Functions Chart

    ASSIGNABLE BLOCK AND PEDAL SWITCH FUNCTIONS CHART This chart indicates the availability of the AS- SIGNABLE block functions for the various modes of the GW50. The shaded sections indicate settings that are automatically selected when the corre- sponding mode buttons are pressed.
  • Page 138 SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION The ASSIGNABLE Block Pedal Switch has no function. Pressing [MEMORY] calls up either BANK/ NUMBER select or ON/OFF, depending on which was last selected with the Pedal Switch (pressing twice selects ON/OFF; pressing once selects BANK/NUMBER). The ASSIGNABLE Block Pedal Switch is used for MIN/MAX VOLUME or AUTO VOLUME and cannot be used for BANK select or switch- ing between BANK/NUMBER select and ON/...

  • Page 139: Effect Parameter Chart

    SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION EFFECT PARAMETER CHART Note: For this chart and the ones on pages 131 and 133–143, sub parameters are denoted by the shaded sections. Effect Effect Type Compressor Comp Attack Sense Output Distortion Dist1~4, Od Drive Tone Output Equalizer Equalizer Low Gain Low Middle Gain...
  • Page 140 Effect Parameter Blank Chart Copy this page and use it for keeping records of your own original parameter settings. Effect Effect Type Parameter Compressor Comp Attack Sense Output Distortion Dist1~4, Od Drive Tone Output Equalizer Equalizer Low Gain Low Middle Gain High Middle Gain High Gain Input...

  • Page 141: Factory Set Memory Effect Program List

    SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION FACTORY SET MEMORY EFFECT PROGRAM LIST Styles Loc. American Hard Rock Heavy Metal Funk & Jazz British Progressive Rock 51 60’s & 70’s Rock Rock’n’Roll & Blues Special Trick Effects Line Sound FACTORY SET MEMORY EFFECT PROGRAM LIST FACTORY SET MEMORY EFFECT PROGRAM LIST Name SO FAT...

  • Page 142: Memory Effect Parameter List

    MEMORY EFFECT PARAMETER LIST 11: SO FAT /off=X parameter value comp attack sense –26dB output 170% dist4 drive tone output +3dB l mid –15dB h mid +15dB high +2dB input lo freq 1.2kHz lo mid freq 1.0kHz hi mid freq 1.2kHz hi freq 4.5kHz...
  • Page 143 SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION 21: HIWAY /off=X parameter value comp attack sense –28dB output 186% dist1 drive tone output amp+eq type stack high +5dB input 100% lo freq 125Hz hi freq 4.0kHz output pitch left –5cent right +10cent L delay time 10ms L delay fb R delay time 10ms...
  • Page 144 31: METAL /off=X parameter value comp attack sense –33dB output 126% dist4 drive tone output +7dB l mid +5dB h mid –10dB high +15dB input lo freq 450Hz lo mid freq 1.2kHz hi mid freq 500Hz hi freq 9.0kHz lo mid q hi mid q output pitch...
  • Page 145 SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION 41: JAZZY /off=X parameter value comp attack sense –19dB output drive tone –8 output 100% +9dB l mid +7dB h mid +2dB high input lo freq 125Hz lo mid freq 630Hz hi mid freq 1.0kHz hi freq 3.2kHz lo mid q hi mid q output...
  • Page 146 51: PROGRE /off=X parameter value comp attack sense –29dB output 134% dist3 drive tone output +10dB l mid +6dB h mid –4dB high +2dB input lo freq 125Hz lo mid freq 500Hz hi mid freq 1.1kHz hi freq 4.0kHz lo mid q hi mid q output cho1...
  • Page 147 SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION 61: ERA 66 /off=X parameter value comp attack sense –22dB output 200% dist1 drive tone output amp+eq type stack –3dB high +6dB input 100% lo freq 280Hz hi freq 3.6kHz output phaser speed 5.10Hz depth time 0.8s high type hall 100%...
  • Page 148 71: TELE /off=X parameter value comp attack sense –14dB output 126% dist3 drive tone output +6dB l mid +4dB h mid +4dB high +10dB input lo freq 125Hz lo mid freq 630Hz hi mid freq 1.0kHz hi freq 3.2kHz lo mid q hi mid q output pitch...
  • Page 149 SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION 81: TRICK /off=X parameter value comp attack sense –38dB output dist1 drive tone output +3dB l mid +2dB h mid +9dB high input 100% lo freq 125Hz lo mid freq 560Hz hi mid freq 1.1kHz hi freq 2.5kHz lo mid q hi mid q output...
  • Page 150 91: HARD-L /off=X parameter value comp attack sense –17dB output dist2 drive tone output amp+eq type combo –4dB high +5dB 100% input 100% lo freq 125Hz hi freq 4.0kHz output 100% flanger speed 1.23Hz depth L time 3.0ms R time 6.0ms dly+rev time...
  • Page 151 SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION 01: BACK-L /off=X parameter value comp attack sense –21dB output 158% dist3 drive tone output amp+eq type stack +6dB high +4dB input lo freq 200Hz hi freq 3.6kHz output pitch left –10cent right +15cent L delay time 0.1ms L delay fb R delay time 0.1ms...

  • Page 152: Manual Effect Factory Set Parameter Chart

    SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION MANUAL EFFECT FACTORY SET PARAMETER CHART on= /off= Effect Type Parameter Comp Attack Sense Output Dist 1~4, Od Drive Tone Output Equalizer Low Gain Low Middle Gain High Middle Gain High Gain Input Low Frequency Low Mid Frequency High Mid Frequency High Frequency Low Mid Q...

  • Page 153: Preset Pattern List

    SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION PRESET PATTERN LIST Note: The Drums part data is transmitted over MIDI channel 5. For a list of the specific drum and percussion sounds used in the Drums part, see page 146. Category Pattern No. Name Rock/Pop 9~12 13~16 17~20 21~24...
  • Page 154 Preset Pattern List (cont.) Category Pattern No. Name Rhythm & Blues 153~156 RB1 157~160 RB2 161~164 RB3 165~168 RB4 169~172 RB5 173~176 RB6 177~180 RB7 181~184 RB8 Jazz Contemporary 185~188 JC1 189~192 JC2 193~196 JC3 Jazz Traditional 197~200 JT1 201~204 JT2 205~208 JT3 209~212 JT4 Latin...

  • Page 155: Drum And Percussion Sounds Used For Drum Parts

    SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION DRUM AND PERCUSSION SOUNDS USED FOR DRUMS PARTS This chart lists the instrument sounds used for the Drums parts in the Backing section, along with their assigned note values (given here both in conventional form and MIDI note number). Drums part data is transmitted over MIDI channel 5.

  • Page 156: Factory Set Song List

    These phrases (as well as the other six songs) also should provide helpful hints as to how to use the Backing section of the GW50 in your own compositions. SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION...

  • Page 157: Midi Specifications

    MIDI SPECIFICATIONS program change events are played back in Song play. (How- ever, the GW50’s internal effect program does not change if the Job or Edit mode of the Effect section is currently se- lected.) The transmit channel is fixed at 1.
  • Page 158 Program Change Program change messages can be received only when the Effect section is in Memory mode and Manual mode. The program change number correspondence for receiving is the same as that for transmission. The MIDI receive channel is also set to 1. System Realtime Messages Status bytes: F8, FA, FB, FC These are transmitted, but not received.
  • Page 159 CHART OF CHORD FINGERINGS FOR GUITAR SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION CHART OF CHORD FINGERINGS FOR GUITAR...
  • Page 160 CHART OF CHORD FINGERINGS FOR GUITAR SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION MIDI IMPLENTATION CHART — BACKING PART CHART OF CHORD FINGERINGS FOR GUITAR...

  • Page 161: Chart Of Chord Fingerings For Guitar

    SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION CHART OF CHORD FINGERINGS FOR GUITAR This chart shows the fingerings for the 25 different chord types in the key of C. Three different positions are given for each chord. An “ ” indicates that the corresponding string is not part of the chord and should not be played.

  • Page 162: Use Of Advanced Recording Techniques - Factory Set Song 1

    USE OF ADVANCED RECORDING TECHNIQUES – FACTORY SET SONG 1 The demo songs take full advantage of the sophisticated accompaniment and recording features of the GW50. We recommend that you listen closely to the songs and “browse” through the recorded data to pick up helpful pointers on how you can effectively use these features in your own recordings.
  • Page 163 SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION Using Mute to Interrupt Sustained Sounds In a variation of the above technique, you can also use mute to break up sustained sounds in the accompaniment, such as strings or a held bass note. However, this cannot be done by mute events alone; even with an accompaniment mute event following a chord event, the sustained sound continues to be heard.
  • Page 164 Creating a Custom Bass Line Since the GW50 allows you to enter different bass notes at each 16th note in a measure, you can create your own custom bass line. In this example from measures 4 and 5, a custom bass line is played under a constant A7 chord.

  • Page 165: Demo Song 1-6 - Chord Charts

    DEMO SONGS 1-6 – CHORD CHARTS SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION DEMO SONGS 1-6 – CHORD CHARTS The following charts show the chord progressions used in the six demonstration songs. DEMO SONGS 1-6 – CHORD CHARTS...

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