Yamaha DTXpress/DTXplorer/DTXtreme

--- In DTXpress@yahoogroups.com, "Randy" <randy@d...> wrote:
> I just got a used DTXpress for $650, and I am considering returning 
> it for a new Hart Dyanmics PRODIGY / Alesis DM5 kit from Musicians 
> Friend ($699).  
> 
> Has anyone compared these?  The pads look a bit nicer, but the 
module 
> doesn't seem to be as nice (not nearly as many drum kits, no audio 
> input)

Randy,

We've been talking about the Alesis DM5 quite a bit lately, and I 
think that it's safe to say that most of us view it as a great second 
module but a bit thin as a first one, especially in light of what the 
Xpress package gives you. With the Yamaha, you get the benefit of 
stereo triggers, a much better approximation of a fully variable hat 
(if not the whole thing; the Alesis module and Hart controller offer 
no more than open and closed), an aux. input (which can be used as a 
simple mixer in a pinch), the sequencer, and a few other user-
friendly features, which, in the end, may or may not interest you. As 
a beginning drummer, however, you may well find the groove check et 
al. valuable to have. If you want more information specifically on 
the Alesis, search the archives under DM5.

As for physical configuration, I'll assume that you have the RS60a 
rack that came with the DTXpressI, mk 2. I would imagine that it held 
no advantage over the Hart. The gum-rubber hi hat pad is probably 
similar, too. The Prodigy's kick pad may be better than the Yamaha 
KP60. But that's where I'd stop. You'll notice that the Hart's drum 
triggers are all single zone (no rims); nor are they to be confused 
with the Acupad triggers that come with even the bottom end of Hart's 
more serious line. They are basically practice pads with a few Hart 
alterations (like the Kontrol Screen heads)and an embedded piezo. The 
cymbals are not Hart's higher-end ECS ones either. They resemble the 
Pintech TC series, which is nowhere as good as Yamaha's entry level. 
The upgrade path would be no simpler for the Hart set, and, chances 
are, you'd want to take it sooner. 

If you had the DTXpressII used, I'd say no contest: Yamaha wins by a 
knockout. But even a used DTXpressI in fair condition has more to 
offer. It is simply a more serious piece of equipment. As much as I 
respect Hart products, when used with Roland or Alesis electronics, 
here's one strong vote for the DTXpress. Anyone else think of 
anything?

Ed