This may seem a stupid question, but what's the difference between General MIDI and XG sounds. I've always used GM sounds previously, and was wondering why XG sounds differ.

XG is Yamaha's answer to Roland's GS. It's an extended set of features that enhance the standard GM confines. There are more variations of sounds, for one thing. Think of it like GM PLUS.

Just keep in mind that XG and GS don't sound
as good on ordinary GM as on hardware who is
ment for that formats.
Btw, are GM2 a kind of answer to GS and XG, or
is it just the increase from 128 to 256 voices?
GJ

GM is an industry-wide standard of voices and messages that are compatible among all synths and synth-related devices. GM2, from what I have read, will be the next industry-wide standard that will double the amount of voices and add more features to synths and synth-related devices. GM voices can be played on all synths. GM2 voices will be compatible with all future synths when the standard is implemented.

GS and XG are proprietary and not industry-wide standards.

Larry

Right on the money, Larry.

I am impressed.

Regarding GM & GS. I have read a report that Yamaha & Roland have already got together to agree to a GS \ XG combination standard,lets hope things develop quickly.

Graham UK

That's like the Macy's santa sending customers to Gimbles!!! What a nice thought. Think it'll really happen? Can the "big two" really agree on a sound set? I wonder.....

The story is at
http://www.yamaha.co.jp/english/news/01011902.html

Shiral

Woah ! It IS going to happen!
Great news for synth players.