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(Works with SX700, SX900, SX720, Genos 1 & Genos 2 too!)
In Part 1 of our recording series, we looked at how easy it is to get started with basic MIDI recording on the Yamaha PSR-SX920 — and how the same steps apply to related models like the SX700, SX720, SX900, Genos 1 and Genos 2.
In this second instalment, we go a step further. This is where your recordings begin to sound polished, layered, and genuinely exciting.
▶️ Watch Part 2 in the video below to follow along with each technique in detail.
Once you’ve recorded your parts, the next step is balancing them. In this episode, I show how to use the built-in mixer to adjust volume levels between tracks — making sure nothing gets lost, and no single voice dominates the others.
It’s a straightforward but powerful way to tighten up your arrangement and make it sound more intentional.
We also explore panning — placing sounds in the stereo field so that, for example, your piano sits slightly left and your guitar glides in from the right. It’s a subtle effect, but one that makes your recordings sound more spacious and professional.
I also include a handy trick for getting a bit more impact from your panning settings without cluttering your mix.
Next, we talk about layering. One of the most effective ways to add richness is to introduce a synth pad underneath your existing tracks. These ambient textures can fill out your arrangement without taking over.
It’s a great tool for both beginner and advanced users who want that “bigger” sound without adding complexity.
A big advantage of Yamaha’s multi-track system is being able to isolate individual tracks during playback. This means if something’s not quite right — a note too loud, or an offbeat rhythm — you can quickly identify it and make changes without affecting the rest of your song.
This is also where we revisit the arpeggiator feature, which helps add rhythmic movement and interest to your arrangements.
As always, everything I show applies across Yamaha’s shared operating system. So whether you’re using a PSR-SX700, SX900, SX920, SX720, Genos 1 or Genos 2 — you can follow along step by step.
The interface might look slightly different from model to model, but the functionality is identical where recording is concerned.
In the next video, we’ll cover:
Whether you’re a songwriter, a hobbyist, or just exploring what your keyboard can do, these tools are all within your reach — and they make a huge difference to what you can create.
If you haven’t already, watch Part 2 in the video above and start experimenting with mixing, layering, and editing your tracks. It’s one of the best ways to get the most from your Yamaha keyboard — and you might be surprised by how much you can do.
Got a question, or want to share what you’ve been recording? Leave a comment below — I’d love to hear about it.
Thinking of upgrading? We offer a part exchange service on all Yamaha keyboards — it’s quick, easy, and gives you a great price for your old instrument.
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Comments:
Hi Chris,
I have really enjoyed so far, your very informative and well-presented videos in “Taking Your Yamaha PSR-SX920 Recordings Further” In part 2 you selected from the Voice Synth section “Pearly Gates” for the 3rd layer of the recording. I have the PSR-SX900 which does not seem to have that voice? Can you confirm if that is the case and if so, is it available for download? I look forward to Pt 3.
Cheers
Geoffro
From the Land Downunder.
Hi Geoff,
The “Pearly Gates” voice is actually brand new for the SX920—it isn’t available on the SX900 and can’t be installed. That’s often the case with upgraded keyboards: they come packed with a bunch of exclusive new voices and higher-quality sounds that aren’t backwards compatible.
Let me know if you want help comparing the key differences—we’re always happy to help you decide whether an upgrade makes sense for you!
Best wishes,
The ePianos Team