Yamaha DTXpress/DTXplorer/DTXtreme

Jags,

>>Will I require extra cables firstly to have the 3-zone snare and 2-zone cymbal working?

Pads with more than one zone will require stereo cables.  I don't know what came with the DTXplorer, so you will need to check.

>>Will I have enough inputs to do a 3-zone snare, hi-hat, 3 toms, kick drum, 2 single-zone cymbals and 1 dual-zone cymbal?

Yes.  That is 9 pads - the DTXpress can do 10.  

>>How are the PCY130's 150's better apart from looking like the real cymbals

Looks and "behaviour" I think.  They can "swing" a bit like a real cymbal.  Also, you cannot get a 3 zone pie shaped cymbal.

>>Maybe its me but I felt my Xplorer cymbal samples sounded better

It is possible, I am not sure.  The DTXplorer has some sounds in common with the DTXpress IV which was an improvement on the DTXpress III.  

>>Also how do pads from other companies like Alesis, Pintech etc fit onto Yamaha kits

There can be issues of sensitivity.  You will have to play around with the trigger settings in the module.  A 100k pot can be helpful as well.  Also, a 2 zone pad from another company (other than Roland) is unlikely to use a single piezo and rim switch.  This would therefore require either two input to get the two zones or some DIY electronics.

If you want to save money, there is plenty of information around about making your own pads or converting acoustic kits/cymbals to electronic.  Try http://launch.groups.yahoo.com/group/DIY-edrums/ and http://www.toontrack.com/edrum_for_free.asp

Keith.