Yamaha DTXpress IV Standard

(Originally written by turm/translated from Audiofanzine FR)
- How long have you been using it?

One week.

- Which feature do you like the most / the least?

Pros: Modular system (my configuration is different from Yamaha's pictures).

The sound is pretty good and you can edit many parameters for each pad (tuning, reverb, etc., see documentation). You get crazy sounds for electro but its acoustic kits also sound authentic.

Cons: the rubber pads are too hard. I think it's a good idea to buy Zildjian Antivib drumsticks. The drum kit makes enough noise to disturb your environment especially the bass drum, which sounds as if someone were renovating the apartment, so you'll have to inform your neighbors.

- Did you try any other models before buying it?

TD3: good product but the sound module is not as comprehensive as the DTX 4 and it's been discontinued so I didn't want to wait for the TD4, which won't have as many practice options as the DTX. Nevertheless, it's a Roland product so it's very good.

DTXplorer: Lower product range.

lTD20: too expensive!!!

Summary: when you can't play an acoustic drum kit because you live in an apartment, you'll have to buy a Midi drum kit. It's expensive but it allows you to practice and play music in your kitchen. Connect it to a PC and the possibilities multiply!!!

I bought the Yamaha because I think it's more comprehensive than a Roland in this price range (two cymbals, snare and 3-zone hi-hat). The hi-hat is a pad so I might upgrade that. The sound module seemed to be more comprehensive.

It certainly can't replace real drums, and as soon as I move into a house I will make a music room to play my old acoustic drum kit again.

I hope this review is helpful because it was difficult for me to choose the instrument I needed. I'd like to ask DTXpress 4 Standard Kit users to write a review about it.