Yamaha DTX502 Series Electronic Drum Kits

Yamaha DTX562KBased on the award-winning DTX-PAD, the new DTX kits feature redesigned tom pads, a lighter-weight RS502 steel rack and a more powerful drum trigger module. Also included are advanced features from the higher-end DTX models, such as cymbal muting, natural swells and smoother snare drum rolls.

There is nearly twice the wave ROM storage to store the more than 250 additional sounds and the new DTX502 drum trigger module now has drum and cymbal samples from top VST sample library developers. But if you want to add your own sounds, you may import audio samples and MIDI files.

Under the hood of the DTX502 module, you'll find more precision in the exact the trigger settings for a more natural playing and responsive feel. I like the streamlined front panel layout that features plug n' play USB connectivity to a computer.

Want to practice and track your progress? The DTX502 series includes new training and educational functions for drummers at any skill level to improve their playing. With eight practice routines that help develop rhythmic timing, pad accuracy and drumming endurance, the system calculates a score after each session so that drummers can track their progress.

The DTX522K kit, the most affordable model in the series, includes the three-zone XP80 8-inch DTX-PAD snare and three of the newly designed TP70 7.5-inch tom pads. It also comes with three-zone, choke-able ride and crash cymbals plus a three-zone hi-hat pad.

The DTX532K uses the same drum pads and rack system but features an upgraded hi-hat and two large PCY135 13-inch three-zone choke-able cymbal pads. Top of the line is the DTX562K, which includes the 13-inch cymbals and real hi-hat pad, upgrades the toms to an all-DTX-PAD configuration with three XP70 7-inch pads.

MSRP prices: DTX562K $2,637, DTX532K $1,732, and DTX522K $1,507. Check: http://4wrd.it/dtx502

By Barry Rudolph

miniBio: Barry Rudolph is a recording engineer/mixer with over 30 gold and platinum RIAA awards to his credit. He has recorded and/or mixed: Lynyrd Skynyrd, Hall & Oates, Pat Benatar, Rod Stewart, the Corrs and Robbie Nevil. Barry has his own futuristic music mixing facility and also teaches recording engineering at Musician’s Institute, Hollywood, CA. http://www.barryrudolph.com