Yamaha A3000, Professional Sampler instruction

4.Assign a device to control the tempo change. [PLAY]: [CONTROL]: [PgmCtl 1] page. This Controller Matrix allows you to assign a MIDI controller to change the Beat / Pitch Control features of the Effect. When you select this page you will note that the default setup is to control EFFECT 1, parameter 1, Beat Change. This is what we want. If necessary, set it as mentioned. Set the number under Device Knob to an appropriate Control Change number you wish to use (001, for example, would allow the modulation wheel to change the beat). To set this device, simply press the Knob below the word “Device” making the red arrow blink, then move the controller (mod wheel) you want to assign. Its control change number will appear in the screen. Press the Knob again to lock it in.

5.You can also control the Beat Change with an A3000 Knob. To do this: Select the

[UTILITY]: [PANEL PLAY]: [Knob Set] page. Set Knob #2 as follows: CTRL = ON; T-ch = 1 (transmit channel); Device = 001 (Modulation wheel, for our example).

6.Turn Knob #1 or press the 2nd Function button to select the [KNOB CTL] page: The Knob Control page is where you can play the knobs. Each of the knobs will probably have ( 1:064) above it. This would signify MIDI channel 1, value 64. The value 64 is center for controls that run from 0-127. Values above 064 will increase the Tempo, below will slow the Tempo, however, the pitch should remain the same!

7.You can use the Function keys to trigger samples. [UTILITY]: [PANEL PLAY]: [Fkey Set] page. Set Function key #1 to trigger the note to which you have assigned your sample; C3 is the default assignment.

The Function buttons can send note-ons. This is set via [UTILITY]: [SYSTEM]: [KEYS] page. Set the ASSGINABLE parameter to “Fkey Play on/off”. When the ASSIGNABLE key light is illuminated no other functions work but the Function keys can now send note-ons to the assigned samples. Depending on the sample LOOP parameter you can have the full sample playback from a single touch (Shot →) or you can have it turnoff when you let go. The samples assigned to the Function Keys will follow the amplitude envelope generator (AEG) setting of the sample. If you want the sample to play endlessly, set the AEG release rate to 0. Use the ASSIGNABLE key (lit) to convert the Function keys to triggers. You can activate the ASSIGNABLE key at any time.

[UTILITY]: [PANEL PLAY]: [Knob Set] page. Here is where you can define control change numbers for knobs 2,3,4 and 5, set the MIDI Channel, On/Off condition, and the Device (or controller number). As with the Function keys above, you can set the values manually or via MIDI. You can program the parameter control knob to offset (+/-) above and below a center value or just to send positive (+) values, depending on what you wish to accomplish. When setting the Play mode Control parameters you can specify the offset type and the range over which the knob has affect. [PLAY]: [CONTROL]: [PgmCtrl 2] page.

As with the Function keys above, the [ASSIGNABLE] key can be set to select Knob Control at any time, from any screen—even during a sample record session. If you select “Fkey ON/OFF” as the Assignable option (Utility – System) and then activate the [ASSIGNABLE] button while viewing the [Knob Ctrl] screen, you have a situation where both the Knobs and Function Keys are activated as Panel Play controllers, simultaneously.

A3000, Professional Sampler specifications

The Yamaha A3000 is a professional sampler that has gained recognition for its robust feature set and exceptional sound quality. Launched in the late 1990s, the A3000 was designed to accommodate the needs of both studio and live musicians, providing a range of tools to manipulate and create samples in real-time.

At the core of the A3000’s capabilities is its sample playback functionality. Users can load a variety of audio files, thanks to its support for various sample formats, including WAV and AIFF. The sampler is capable of handling samples up to 64MB of RAM, a significant amount for its time, ensuring that musicians have access to high-quality, layered sounds without worrying about memory limitations.

One of the standout features of the A3000 is its powerful sampling engine. The device allows for extensive editing options, including pitch shifting, time stretching, and filtering. This gives users creative flexibility when constructing sounds or developing complex audio compositions. The inclusion of 16-voice polyphony provides ample room for layering sounds, making it particularly useful for live performances.

The user interface of the A3000 is designed with practicality in mind. The LCD screen allows for easy navigation through various functions, while the intuitive layout ensures that performers and studio engineers can quickly access their desired features. Additionally, the A3000 offers a variety of onboard effects, including reverb, delay, and modulation, enriching the sampling experience.

Connectivity is another strong feature of the A3000. With MIDI input and output, it easily integrates into existing setups and allows for control from MIDI controllers or other devices. The sampler also includes multiple audio outputs, enabling diverse routing options for complex live or studio configurations.

In summary, the Yamaha A3000 professional sampler combines powerful sampling capabilities with a user-friendly interface, making it a versatile tool for both live and studio applications. Its extensive editing features, solid RAM capacity, and comprehensive effects processing empower musicians and sound designers to explore a wide range of sonic possibilities. This innovative sampler has earned its place in the hearts of many audio professionals and continues to be celebrated for its contributions to music production.