Overview
This transcript provides an in-depth look at Gumi (Megpoid), a prominent Vocaloid character and voicebank, covering her history, development, popularity, and recent updates, including the Vocaloid 6 and A.I. Voice platforms.
Gumi and Megpoid: Names and Origins
- Gumi is the mascot character, while Megpoid refers to the voicebank product.
- Gumi is voiced by Nakajima Megumi and owned by Internet Co. Limited.
- The name Megpoid combines Megumi Nakajima and Vocaloid; Gumi is the singer’s childhood nickname.
Release History and Key Voicebanks
- Gumi first launched as Megpoid for Vocaloid 2 on June 26, 2009.
- She became the most popular non-Crypton Vocaloid, surpassing Gakupo.
- Gumi has the most voicebanks among Vocaloids, totaling 17.
- Vocaloid 3 introduced new versions: Adult, Sweet, Whisper, and Power.
- A high-quality English voicebank was added in 2013.
- Vocaloid 4 Gumi voicebanks released in late 2015; no V5 Gumi voicebank was produced.
Notable Songs and Producer Collaborations
- Iconic songs include "Megu Megu Fire Endless Night" (samfree), "Coward Mont Blanc" (Deco), "Matryoshka" (Hachi), and "Mozaik Role" (Deco).
- Gumi English featured in "ECHO" by Crusher and Circus, the second most viewed Vocaloid song.
- Producers like DECO*27, cosMo, Honeyworks, and Kairiki Bear contributed to Gumi’s repertoire.
Popularity Trends and Community Reception
- Gumi’s popularity rose rapidly, rivaling Crypton Vocaloids.
- From 2015, her usage and new song releases declined as other voicebanks and platforms emerged.
- Her voicebank is still recognized for quality and natural sound.
- Producers and listeners note a decline in new Gumi songs but praise her vocal versatility.
Recent Developments: GUMI TALK and AI Megpoid
- After years of inactivity, Internet Co. released GUMI TALK with A.I. Voice technology, independent of Vocaloid, CeVIO, or SynthV.
- Vocaloid 6 introduced AI synthesis and multilingual support; AI Megpoid (GUMI V6) was the first third-party V6 voicebank.
- AI Megpoid supports both Japanese and English, with new style presets instead of separate voicebanks.
- Initial feedback on V6's AI quality is mixed compared to SynthV, but flexibility is appreciated.
Future Prospects and Availability
- Gumi continues to have a dedicated fanbase and impact on Vocaloid music production.
- Products such as AI Megpoid and GUMI TALK are available for digital purchase, ensuring ongoing relevance.
- The introduction of new technology and voicebanks signals a positive outlook for Gumi’s future.