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Description

The Yamaha PortaSound PS-400 is a compact, versatile keyboard designed for musicians who crave portability without sacrificing sound quality. Perfect for both beginners and seasoned players, this portable keyboard offers a broad range of features that cater to various styles and preferences. Featuring 49 full-size keys, it provides a comfortable playing experience, allowing musicians to explore their creativity across multiple octaves.

Equipped with an array of built-in sounds and rhythms, the PS-400 allows you to experiment with different genres and styles. Whether you're composing a new piece or practicing your favorite tunes, this keyboard supports your musical journey with its diverse sound palette. The inclusion of a melody guide function makes it an excellent choice for those looking to enhance their playing skills or learn new songs.

The PS-400's lightweight design ensures that it can travel with you wherever you go, be it a jam session with friends or a solo practice in the park. The keyboard's built-in speakers deliver clear, dynamic sound, making it an excellent choice for both personal practice and small performances.

Key Features:

  • 49 full-size keys for an authentic playing experience
  • A wide range of built-in sounds and rhythms
  • Melody guide function to assist with learning and practice
  • Portable and lightweight design for easy transport
  • Built-in speakers providing clear, dynamic sound
  • Battery-powered option for enhanced mobility
Keen On Keys

Keen On Keys

Yamaha PS-400 - Full Review

Video thumbnail for Yamaha PS-400 - Full Review by Keen On Keys

Yamaha PS-400 - Full Review

Keen On Keys

Keen On Keys

Video thumbnail for Yamaha PS-400 Demonstration (RARE) by Raunchola

Yamaha PS-400 Demonstration (RARE)

Raunchola

Raunchola

Video thumbnail for Yamaha Portasound PS-400 Arpeggio by Notch Audio LLC

Yamaha Portasound PS-400 Arpeggio

Notch Audio LLC

Notch Audio LLC

Video thumbnail for Yamaha PortaSound PS-400(mo138) demo[organ69] by organ69

Yamaha PortaSound PS-400(mo138) demo[organ69]

organ69

organ69

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Yamaha PortaSound PS-400.

Use cases and applications

  • Sounds from the Yamaha PortaSound PS-400 are ideal for lo-fi music, particularly when utilizing its cheaper sound presets.

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  • Adding reverb to the keyboard can improve the audio experience significantly, according to user feedback.

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  • Users have achieved unique sound textures by combining multiple takes and selectively editing the best parts for songs.

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  • The PS-400 has been successfully used to create music reminiscent of C418, highlighting its versatility for ambient and game-inspired tracks.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Running the keyboard through a Monotron Delay pedal is a popular modification that enhances its sound, although detailed before-and-after comparisons are scarce.

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  • An Empress compressor, EQD HoofReaper, and Analogman Chorus are part of a popular effects chain used to enhance the PS-400's sound.

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Features and functionality

  • The keyboard includes a waltz preset, which users find enjoyable for spontaneous jamming sessions.

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  • Described as a pre-FM-sounding synth, the keyboard offers a unique sound profile that works well with additional audio effects like pedals.

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  • Recording directly into Pro Tools without a click track can provide a more fluid sound, as users have found in their compositions.

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User experience

  • Owners appreciate the weight and feel of the keys, noting a robust playing experience that enhances the fun of using the keyboard.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Ground wires are crucial for proper functionality; incorrect connections can lead to sound distortion and non-functioning chords or arpeggios.

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  • Users have found that oiling the keyboard or using batteries that produce residues can cause operational issues, even if the batteries are otherwise functional.

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Critic Reviews

Yamaha Personal Keyboards (EMM Apr 84)

muzines.co.uk

The Yamaha PortaSound PS-400, part of Yamaha's entry-level personal keyboard range, stands out with its stylish design and features like a 44-note keyboard and various auto-accompaniment options. While the keyboard offers valuable tools for composing and enjoying music, such as the Chord Sequence Memory and Arpeggio, the review highlights some shortcomings. The polyphonic capability is limited when auto-accompaniment features are active, and the rhythm section lacks sophistication, often likened to a "fussy metronome." Despite these minor drawbacks, the PS-400 represents good value for money, making it an appealing option for budget-conscious musicians seeking a versatile and portable keyboard.

4.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating

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chuchukazoo

Fun simple keyboard

Very small, very simple, very fun. Nothing special but I like the weird sounds that it can make.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Jarvis Cocker uses Yamaha PortaSound PS-400

Jarvis Cocker

Singer, Guitarist

Pulp

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Jarvis Cocker goes into detail about his love and use of the PS-400 in his book Good Pop, Bad Pop.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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Community setups

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