Yamaha PSR-SX920

Yamaha 's new PSR-SX Series models take inspiration from the flagship Genos2, which is reflected in their superior sound, intuitive controls and wide range of features. For the first time in this price range, we see technologies such as Super Articulation and Crossfade Portamento, demonstrating Yamaha's attention to detail. The extensive library of sounds and styles has been expanded with new expansion packs that bring authentic sounds and rhythms from around the world.

The PSR-SX920 arranger is the more advanced of the two new models and, in addition to a wider range of sounds and more powerful speakers, offers unique features not found on the more basic model. Super Articulation 2 technology was previously only available on Yamaha's top-of-the-range models like the Genos2. It responds to your playing, selecting the most appropriate samples from a wide range to best reproduce the specific nuances of each instrument, be it the natural vibrato of a violin or the glissando of a clarinet. Other features include Vocal Harmony, which lets you create precise vocal harmonies, and Bluetooth connectivity so you can play along with your favourite tracks.

Standing out among the features found on both PSR-SX models is Super Articulation+ technology, which can reproduce different ways of playing instruments and switch between them as you play - for example, you can set up strumming, tremolo or pizzicato on the violin. The Crossfade Portamento function provides smooth transitions between notes, while Style Dynamics Control lets you control the dynamics of individual instruments within a particular style. Many players will also enjoy the Chord Looper, which lets you create sequences of up to eight chords and then play them back to accompany soloing or practicing complex pieces.

For those who can't handle chords, there are accompaniment styles that replace a professional band but leave you in full control of the arrangements and harmonies. You'll also have a virtual drummer to keep time with you through unexpected rhythm changes. Workstation also lets you record your own tracks and play them back in studio quality. A seven-inch touchscreen display and a clear control panel make it as easy as possible to navigate tracks and features, with eight customisable buttons for quick access to your favourite functions and two Live Control potentiometers for adjusting the sound directly while you play. This makes the PSR-SX920's controls as intuitive as possible, allowing you to waste no time searching and concentrate fully on making music.