Probably considering the success of the Tenori-On, Yamaha has recently announced an upcoming, more affordable version of the original instrument, namely the Tenori-On “Orange.” With the Tenori-On concept that captured and fueled the imagination of many influential and creative experimental live and studio musicians, as well as producers and DJs, the manufacturer had a terrific success.

The only complaints were those from end-users that always commented on the affordability of the instrument, and I can tell why. With such eye-catching design, the device caught up immediately, providing users with an easy and intuitive way of mixing music production with performance, besides enhancing both. Along with a redesign, to make a more affordable version, Yamaha is also pioneering the concept of the original. As for performance, the “Orange” version should be able to provide the same creative power of the original.

Yamaha's Peter Peck explains the thinking, "We know everyone loves the concept and fresh approach of Tenori-On, however, as you'd expect we have received thousands of requests for a more affordable version. We therefore looked at many ways of reducing the price without compromising the all-important product concept or creative operating system. By removing the battery option and the back panel LED's and changing the chassis construction from the magnesium found on the original to a more affordable material we have achieved our goal of creating the more affordable Tenori-On 'Orange', bringing the full creative capability of Tenori-On to a much wider audience."

Just like any respected and respectful company, Yamaha announced a free new forthcoming firmware update for the current owners of the Tenori-On that will coincide with the launch of the “Orange” model. Taking user feedback into account, the company will also be developing a new operating system that should be available by January 2010.


We are just a few, but there are many of you, Softpedia users, out there. That's why we thought it would be a good idea to create an email address for you to help us a little in finding gadgets we missed. Interesting links are bound to be posted with recognition going mainly to those who submit. The address is