When it comes to professional audio equipment, Yamaha is a household name that needs no introduction. For decades, the Japanese company has been at the forefront of innovation, consistently pushing the boundaries of sound quality and performance. One of their most significant contributions to the industry is the development of YESS (Yamaha Enhanced Sustain System) Mounts, a game-changing technology that has taken the music world by storm. But when did Yamaha introduce YESS Mounts, and how have they impacted the audio industry?
The Genesis Of YESS Mounts
To understand the origins of YESS Mounts, we need to take a step back and examine the history of drumming. Drumming, as an art form, has been around for thousands of years, with ancient civilizations using various types of drums to create rhythmic sounds. However, it wasn’t until the 20th century that modern drumming as we know it today began to take shape. The invention of the modern drum kit in the early 20th century paved the way for the development of a wide range of drumming styles and techniques.
In the 1960s and 1970s, drumming underwent a significant transformation with the rise of rock and roll, funk, and jazz. Drummers began experimenting with new sounds, techniques, and equipment, leading to a surge in innovation. It was during this period that Yamaha, already an established brand in the music industry, started to focus on drumming.
Yamaha’s journey into drumming began in the 1960s, when they launched their first drum kit, the Yamaha Recording Custom. The kit quickly gained popularity among professional drummers, thanks to its exceptional sound quality, durability, and versatility. Over the years, Yamaha continued to innovate, introducing new drumming technologies and products that further cemented their position as a leader in the industry.
The Need For Improved Drum Mounting Systems
One of the most significant challenges drummers faced was the issue of drum mounting systems. Traditional drum mounting systems, which consisted of metal brackets and screws, often compromised the sound quality and resonance of the drums. These systems restricted the drum’s ability to vibrate freely, resulting in a dampened, lifeless sound.
Drummers and sound engineers began to experiment with various mounting systems, hoping to find a solution that would allow drums to vibrate freely, producing a more resonant and richer sound. However, these early attempts were largely unsuccessful, as they often resulted in added weight, complexity, and instability.
It was against this backdrop that Yamaha’s engineers began working on a revolutionary new drum mounting system, one that would change the face of drumming forever.
The Birth Of YESS Mounts
After years of research and development, Yamaha introduced YESS Mounts in the late 1990s. The acronym YESS stands for Yamaha Enhanced Sustain System, a name that aptly reflects the technology’s purpose. YESS Mounts were designed to provide a sturdy, stable, and flexible mounting system that would allow drums to vibrate freely, producing a more resonant and sustained sound.
The key innovation behind YESS Mounts was the use of a unique elastomeric material, which provided a flexible and shock-absorbing connection between the drum and the mounting system. This material, combined with a cleverly designed arm and claw system, allowed the drum to vibrate freely, reducing the constraints that traditional mounting systems imposed.
The impact of YESS Mounts was immediate and profound. Drummers and sound engineers were amazed by the improved sound quality, with many reporting a noticeable increase in resonance, sustain, and overall tone. YESS Mounts quickly became the gold standard in drum mounting systems, with top professional drummers and recording studios around the world adopting the technology.
The Science Behind YESS Mounts
So, what makes YESS Mounts so effective? The answer lies in the science behind the technology. When a drum is struck, it vibrates at a specific frequency, producing sound waves. However, traditional mounting systems can restrict these vibrations, resulting in a dampened sound.
YESS Mounts work by decoupling the drum from the mounting system, allowing the drum to vibrate freely. The elastomeric material used in YESS Mounts absorbs shocks and vibrations, reducing the energy transferred from the drum to the mounting system. This results in a more resonant and sustained sound, with a greater sense of attack and clarity.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Elastomeric material | Absorbs shocks and vibrations, allowing the drum to vibrate freely |
| Flexible arm and claw system | Provides a secure and stable connection between the drum and mounting system |
| Decoupling | Allows the drum to vibrate freely, reducing energy transfer to the mounting system |
The Impact Of YESS Mounts
The introduction of YESS Mounts has had a profound impact on the music industry. Drummers and sound engineers have reported significant improvements in sound quality, with many citing YESS Mounts as a key factor in their ability to produce high-quality recordings.
The technology has also had a ripple effect on the broader music industry, influencing the development of new drumming techniques and styles. YESS Mounts have enabled drummers to experiment with new sounds and techniques, pushing the boundaries of what is possible on the drums.
Endorsements from Top Drummers
YESS Mounts have received widespread acclaim from top professional drummers, including:
- Steve Gadd: Legendary drummer and Yamaha endorser, known for his work with Paul Simon, Steely Dan, and Eric Clapton.
- Vinnie Colaiuta: Acclaimed drummer and Yamaha endorser, known for his work with Frank Zappa, Sting, and Jeff Beck.
The Evolution Of YESS Mounts
Since their introduction, YESS Mounts have undergone several evolutions, with Yamaha continually refining and improving the technology. Today, YESS Mounts are available in a range of configurations, including tom mounts, bass drum mounts, and cymbal mounts.
Yamaha has also expanded the YESS Mounts range to include specialized systems for specific drumming styles, such as jazz and rock. These specialized systems are designed to meet the unique demands of each style, providing drummers with the optimal sound and performance.
YESS Mounts for Live Performance
YESS Mounts have also had a significant impact on live performances. Drummers can now enjoy improved sound quality and reduced fatigue, thanks to the technology’s ability to absorb shocks and vibrations.
YESS Mounts in the Studio
In the recording studio, YESS Mounts have become an essential tool for drummers and sound engineers. The technology’s ability to produce a more resonant and sustained sound has revolutionized the way drums are recorded, allowing for greater creativity and experimentation.
Conclusion
YESS Mounts have revolutionized the world of drumming, providing a flexible, stable, and shock-absorbing mounting system that has taken sound quality to new heights. The technology’s impact on the music industry has been profound, influencing the development of new drumming techniques and styles.
As Yamaha continues to innovate and refine YESS Mounts, drummers and sound engineers can look forward to even greater improvements in sound quality and performance. The introduction of YESS Mounts marks a significant milestone in the history of drumming, one that will be felt for generations to come.
What Are YESS Mounts And How Do They Work?
YESS Mounts are a revolutionary new technology introduced by Yamaha that aims to improve the sound quality of musical instruments. These innovative mounts are designed to be used in conjunction with Yamaha’s proprietary Yamaha Enhanced Sustain System (YESS) technology. The YESS Mounts work by effectively isolating the instrument’s body from the surrounding environment, allowing for a more pure and uncolored sound.
This isolation is achieved through the use of a specially designed mounting system that decouples the instrument from the surrounding structure, eliminating unwanted vibrations and resonance. The result is a sound that is more vibrant, detailed, and full of life. By reducing the amount of energy that is lost to the surrounding environment, the YESS Mounts enable the instrument to produce a more accurate and nuanced sound, making them an essential component of any serious musician’s setup.
How Do YESS Mounts Improve Sound Quality?
YESS Mounts improve sound quality by allowing the instrument to vibrate more freely, reducing the amount of energy that is lost to the surrounding environment. This results in a sound that is more vibrant, detailed, and full of life. The mounts also help to eliminate unwanted resonance and vibrations, allowing the instrument to produce a more accurate and nuanced sound.
By decoupling the instrument from the surrounding structure, the YESS Mounts enable the instrument to produce a more pure and uncolored sound. This is especially important for musicians who are looking to achieve a high level of tonal accuracy and expression. The improved sound quality provided by the YESS Mounts is particularly noticeable in the midrange and treble frequencies, where the instrument’s tone is most prone to being affected by unwanted resonance and vibrations.
Are YESS Mounts Compatible With All Yamaha Instruments?
YESS Mounts are currently available for select Yamaha instruments, including acoustic guitars, electric guitars, and bass guitars. However, it is expected that the technology will be expanded to other Yamaha instruments in the future. It is recommended that musicians check with authorized Yamaha dealers or the Yamaha website to confirm compatibility with their specific instrument.
It’s worth noting that YESS Mounts are designed to work in conjunction with Yamaha’s proprietary YESS technology, so instruments that do not feature this technology may not be compatible. Additionally, some custom or modified instruments may not be compatible with the YESS Mounts, so it’s always best to check before making a purchase.
How Do I Install YESS Mounts On My Instrument?
Installing YESS Mounts on your instrument is a relatively straightforward process that can be done with a few simple tools. Yamaha provides detailed instructions and diagrams to help guide the installation process, and it’s recommended that musicians follow these instructions carefully to ensure proper installation.
It’s also recommended that musicians consider having a professional technician or luthier install the YESS Mounts, especially if they are not comfortable with DIY installations. This will ensure that the mounts are installed correctly and that the instrument is properly set up to take advantage of the improved sound quality provided by the YESS Mounts.
Will YESS Mounts Affect The Playability Of My Instrument?
One of the most common concerns that musicians have when considering YESS Mounts is whether they will affect the playability of their instrument. The good news is that YESS Mounts are designed to be completely non-invasive and do not affect the playability of the instrument in any way. The mounts are designed to work in conjunction with the instrument’s existing hardware and do not require any permanent modifications.
In fact, many musicians have reported that the YESS Mounts actually improve the playability of their instrument, as the reduced vibrations and resonance can make the instrument feel more solid and responsive to the player. This is especially true for musicians who play with a lot of force or use heavy gauge strings, as the YESS Mounts can help to reduce the amount of fatigue and discomfort associated with playing.
Can I Use YESS Mounts With Other Brands Of Instruments?
While YESS Mounts are currently designed to work with Yamaha instruments, it’s possible that the technology could be adapted for use with other brands of instruments in the future. However, at present, YESS Mounts are only compatible with Yamaha instruments that feature the proprietary YESS technology.
Musicians who play other brands of instruments may want to consider exploring other sound-enhancing technologies that are compatible with their instrument. It’s always a good idea to check with the manufacturer or a professional technician to determine the best options for their specific instrument.
Are YESS Mounts Worth The Investment?
YESS Mounts are a significant investment, but for serious musicians, they can be a game-changer. The improved sound quality and tonal accuracy provided by the YESS Mounts can take a musician’s playing to the next level, and the increased confidence and inspiration that comes from playing an instrument that sounds great can be invaluable.
Of course, the decision to invest in YESS Mounts ultimately depends on a musician’s individual needs and goals. However, for those who are serious about achieving the best possible sound quality and are willing to invest in their craft, YESS Mounts can be a worthwhile investment.