Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .

Average Price: $91

Budget/Beginner

$150

$601+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

The Yamaha RX-5 is a powerhouse in the world of drum machines, designed for both studio perfectionists and live performance enthusiasts. Released during the digital revolution of the 1980s, this 16-bit PCM rhythm composer remains a favorite for its robust sound and versatility. With a wide array of pre-set drum samples, including kicks, snares, and toms, the RX-5 provides a rich palette for crafting dynamic beats. Its intuitive interface makes it easy to navigate, while advanced features like velocity-sensitive pads and real-time control give you the ability to produce intricate rhythms with ease.

The RX-5 is lauded for its expandable memory, allowing you to customize and store additional sounds, which is a rarity among drum machines of its era. This feature, combined with its solid construction and reliable performance, makes it a staple in the gear bags of DJs and producers around the globe. Whether you're laying down tracks in the studio or delivering electrifying performances on stage, the RX-5 ensures your beats are always on point.

Key Features:

  • 16-bit PCM sound engine for high-quality audio
  • 24 built-in drum sounds with the ability to expand via external ROM cards
  • Velocity-sensitive pads for dynamic beat creation
  • Real-time control for live performance adaptability
  • Expandable memory for storing custom sounds and patterns
  • MIDI compatibility for seamless integration with other gear
  • Comprehensive editing features to fine-tune every aspect of your rhythms

Product specs

Brand Yamaha
Model RX5 Digital Rhythm Programmer
Finish Black
Year 1986
Categories Drum Machines
Analog / Digital Digital
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through
Number of Pads 24 Pads
Polyphony 16 Voices

FAQs

What type of sound can I expect from the Yamaha RX5 drum machine?

The Yamaha RX5 offers a classic 80s digital sound with a variety of percussive voices, making it ideal for electronic, pop, and dance music genres. It features a distinctive, punchy tone that is characteristic of vintage drum machines.

How many sounds can the Yamaha RX5 play simultaneously?

The Yamaha RX5 has a polyphony of 16 voices, allowing it to play up to 16 different sounds at the same time, which is great for creating complex rhythmic patterns.

Does the Yamaha RX5 have MIDI capabilities?

Yes, the Yamaha RX5 is equipped with MIDI Input, Output, and Through, enabling it to integrate seamlessly with other MIDI-compatible devices for expanded control and synchronization.

How many pads does the Yamaha RX5 have for triggering sounds?

The Yamaha RX5 features 24 pads, providing a wide range of options for triggering its built-in sounds and creating dynamic drum patterns.

Is the Yamaha RX5 suitable for live performances?

With its robust build and reliable MIDI integration, the Yamaha RX5 is well-suited for live performances, offering versatile sound programming and real-time control over drum sequences.

zibbybone

zibbybone

Yamaha RX5 Drum Machine Demo

Video thumbnail for Yamaha RX5 Drum Machine Demo by zibbybone

Yamaha RX5 Drum Machine Demo

zibbybone

zibbybone

Video thumbnail for Yamaha RX5 demo (default voices) by SynthMania

Yamaha RX5 demo (default voices)

SynthMania

SynthMania

Video thumbnail for Yamaha RX5 Live Demo by Zap Danger

Yamaha RX5 Live Demo

Zap Danger

Zap Danger

Video thumbnail for Yamaha RX5 in 2020 ? by Musician Paradise

Yamaha RX5 in 2020 ?

Musician Paradise

Musician Paradise

Video thumbnail for Yamaha RX5 Drum Machine - a detailed demo and tutorial by CatSynth TV

Yamaha RX5 Drum Machine - a detailed demo and tutorial

CatSynth TV

CatSynth TV

Video thumbnail for Yamaha RX5 Drum Machine - my opinion by vintagestereos

Yamaha RX5 Drum Machine - my opinion

vintagestereos

vintagestereos

Video thumbnail for Yamaha RX5 - Techno Jam ( Raw audio, no fx ) by Exsiderurgica

Yamaha RX5 - Techno Jam ( Raw audio, no fx )

Exsiderurgica

Exsiderurgica

Video thumbnail for The Yamaha RX5: The Ultimate 80s Drum Machine by Ian Dixon

The Yamaha RX5: The Ultimate 80s Drum Machine

Ian Dixon

Ian Dixon

Reviews

PROS

  • Versatile with deep sound editing options

  • Iconic sounds recognized in late 80s tracks

  • Affordable with great value for vintage gear

  • Can emulate SP12 sounds using RX5USB Card

  • Individual outs and full MIDI support enhance connectivity

  • Stable performance, essential for live setups

  • Unique pitch shifting for creative tones

CONS

  • Plastic design and buttons feel fragile

  • Larger footprint than some competitors

  • Built-in drum sounds considered bland without modification

  • Hard plastic pads can be loud and annoying in live play

  • Some find it limiting despite expansions

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Yamaha RX-5.

Features and functionality

  • The RX5 includes individual outputs for each sound, allowing detailed external sound processing and manipulation.

    Source
  • The RX5 has MIDI in/out/through and supports internal, MIDI, tape, and external sync options, crucial for integrating with other gear without additional converters.

    Source
  • The RX5 lacks a low-pass filter but offers editable ADSR for each sound, which can still be creatively used for sound shaping.

    Source
  • Users describe the RX-5's 12-bit converters as key to its unique "crunchy" sound quality, contributing to its distinct sonic character compared to later models.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • The RX5USB Mk2 card enables custom sample loading, enhancing versatility with samples like 808/909 and E-MU Drumulator.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Users often need to replace the internal battery and LCD as they tend to fade over time.

    Source
  • Users note that the RX5 can go out of sync over time if not explicitly synced, indicating a need for careful MIDI clock management.

    Source
  • Owners find button contact cleaning with isopropyl alcohol effective for restoring non-working buttons, improving overall functionality after years of use.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Known for its distinctive snare sounds, the RX5 was favored by Prince and used by Chromeo for select tracks.

    Source
  • The RX5's voice editing capabilities are highlighted as a standout feature, though less useful for non-industrial genres according to some users.

    Source
  • Individual outputs allow creative effects processing, such as using guitar pedals on select outputs to craft unique sound textures.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners highlight the 80s sequencer workflow as having a steep learning curve for those unfamiliar with vintage gear.

    Source
  • The RX5 is notably larger than expected, comparable in size to a Minilogue XD and slightly smaller than a standard Hi-Fi component, impacting space considerations.

    Source
  • Despite initial complexity, some owners report mastering the RX-5's menu navigation quickly, finding it more intuitive than other vintage Yamaha gear like the EX-5.

    Source

Build quality

  • Some users experience "crunchy" sounds, possibly indicating wear or damage needing repair, such as bent cartridge ports or broken volume sliders.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Compared to its sibling, the RX-7, the RX-5 is noted for more pronounced punch and swing, enhancing its appeal for live use and recording.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Yamaha RX5 (SOS Apr 87)

muzines.co.uk

The Yamaha RX-5 impresses with an expansive 64-sound palette and robust editing capabilities, offering tremendous value for money. Its extensive voice modification options, including pitch and envelope controls, make it a versatile tool for creative percussion programming. However, its large size and somewhat unintuitive key assignment system can be daunting for new users. The inclusion of novelty sounds like sampled vocals might seem gimmicky, but the machine's core functionality remains compelling. The RX-5's innovative features, such as the Damp function for sound control and comprehensive MIDI implementation, solidify its status as a forward-thinking drum machine. Despite minor drawbacks like an external power supply, the RX-5 stands out as a powerful and flexible option for electronic percussionists.

positive

Yamaha RX5 Digital Rhythm Programmer (1986) | Wolf Review

wolfarchitects.design

The Yamaha RX5 Digital Rhythm Programmer is a beautifully crafted piece of retro gear, notable for its design elegance and construction quality. Despite being overshadowed by legends like the TR-808, the RX5 boasts unique features and sounds from its era. However, its noisy, less sensitive buttons and the risk of screen deterioration are notable drawbacks. With its underappreciated status, the RX5 remains affordable, making it a potential bargain for collectors. While not as groundbreaking today, its design excellence still resonates, suggesting a future appreciation in value for well-maintained units.

Yamaha RX5 (MT Apr 87)

muzines.co.uk

The Yamaha RX5 is a powerhouse of a drum machine, boasting an impressive range of high-quality sounds and unparalleled flexibility, making it a worthy investment for serious musicians despite its hefty price tag. The RX5 offers a vast array of voices and extensive editing capabilities, allowing users to personalize their sound with ease. Its intuitive programming and robust memory capacity set it apart from its predecessors. However, it lacks sampling capabilities, which limits its creative potential slightly. Overall, the RX5 stands as a compelling argument for drum machines, promising to reward dedicated users with its state-of-the-art features.

positive
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 5 Reviews and 18 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
paul_sepp

Legendary drum machine

Great drum machine. Really deep sound editing potential. All stock sounds sound really nice, didnt notice any issues. MIDI is also really a nice addition.

grit_neverlab

One of my fav's

I must be honest, if I hadn't developed sound cartridges for this unit (Retrokits RK-001) I would probably not use it that much (although the RX5's sounds are iconic too) but now I can play custom and 808s, 909s, 606s,... on this machine it has become a stable clock in my setup. Loads of pattern memory, 80s style editing but hey. Stable as a rock.

jimmarchi1

the stock RX5 sunds just kill, its like a Janet Jackson record.... or a skinny puppy record if you add some distortion

david_bonin

How did you develop sound cartridges? I'm interested in that.

E

Fun 80s drum machine

I love the snares and claps on this machine. The stock tambourine is one of my favorite tambourine samples that I use. It has discrete outs for each drum, which is really nice if you're doing more than grabbing one shot samples. Hard plastic pads get loud and clicky when playing things in live, which can be annoying, but it's a small price to pay.

jimmarchi1

Dude I love the RX5. Wish mine hadn't broken :-(

E

@jimmarchi1 let me know if you need any samples from it! I'd be more than happy to hook you up

k_g_b_

Um, read below?

The built-in sampled drum sounds themselves are pretty bland, but there are sufficient means of sculpting the sounds even beyond recognition. Pitch and amp envelopes and sample looping just to name a few, and when you pitch down the samples you get that deliciously gritty 80s industrial sound. Mmmmmm!

atonalmeasure

Nice crispy fast drum machine, good sounds

Stephen Morris from New order used to use these and thats why i bought one, i only ever used it for reverse cymbals.. true story ! nice sounding, but really quite limiting. Had all the expansion waveforms for it, but let it go.. Not forgotten, but not really missed.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Paul McCartney uses Yamaha RX-5

Paul McCartney

Singer, Bassist

The Beatles

...
Verified via Hog Hill Mill Blog

the Yamaha RX-5 Drum Machine is listed in this blog

See how Mac DeMarco uses Yamaha RX-5

Mac DeMarco

Singer, Guitarist

Mac DeMarco

...
Verified via The Editorial Magazine

Mac explains that he recently bought this drum machine

See how Prince uses Yamaha RX-5

Prince

Singer, Guitarist

Prince

...
Verified via Ramshacklecrow

Prince liked to used the Yamaha RX-5 digital drum machine for his 1987 album Sign O' the Times. For example, he used both the Linn LM-1's cabasa, kick and tambourine combined with the Yamaha RX-5's snare to create the drum beat for the album's title song.

See how Chromeo uses Yamaha RX-5

Chromeo

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

"The Yamaha RX5, we've used that a couple times. This is very, very 80s. There's like an integrated reverb that's kind of not like a real reverb... but it's a delay. It’s pretty good."

See how Robin Guthrie uses Yamaha RX-5

Robin Guthrie

Guitarist

Cocteau Twins

...
Verified via Robinguthrie

In the Equipment Notes on Robin Guthrie's official website, the Yamaha RX-5 drum machine is mentioned in the third paragraph, sixth line, confirming its use by the artist.

See how Stephen Morris uses Yamaha RX-5

Stephen Morris

Drummer, Keyboardist

Joy Division

...
Verified via Muzines

"I used to have a Yamaha RX5 but that was stolen. When I went out to get a replacement I walked into a music shop and saw the R8. It looked like it was covered in fuzzy felt which I thought was a good gimmick for a start. I've not yet completely got to grips with its Human Rhythm Composer title, but it's an interesting box with good sounds. I wish Roland would bring out 808 and 909 cards for it. The thing that I liked about the R8 was that someone was putting out a drum machine with the specific idea that it shouldn't sound like a drum machine. Even putting very subtle variations in can make it harder to detect as a machine."

See how Andrew Eldritch uses Yamaha RX-5

Andrew Eldritch

Singer, Drummer

The Sisters of Mercy

...
Verified via The-sisters-of-mercy

Unfortunately the midi retrofit was expensive. By the time 'Floodland' was being written, Andrew had spent all the ready cash on a computer and a sequencer, and was looking for a reasonably priced midi drum machine with a tighter snare drum. So he got a Yamaha RX5 for the snare sound (the kick was quite tight too) and wrote the album with that.

"Having already abused the sampling delay units of that era (and some very complicated chains of painstakingly-tuned Drawmer gates) to trigger captured drum sounds, the first dedicated samplers were a godsend. Until then, even the AMS delay unit had a maximum seven seconds of memory, and that cost a fortune. A rare treat. Mostly we had only had access to Bel units with a couple of seconds at 8 bit resolution. Both had to be triggered by hand or audio key."

See how Deb Demure uses Yamaha RX-5

Deb Demure

Singer, Guitarist

Drab Majesty

...
Verified via Photo

The image from Drab Majesty's Facebook page, dated 2013, showcases Deb Demure's studio setup, which includes a Yamaha RX-5 drum machine.

See how Andy McCluskey uses Yamaha RX-5

Andy McCluskey

Singer, Guitarist

Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark

...
Verified via Muzines

"The S1000 and the Korg M1 were the two main instruments. I used two drum machines. For a lot of the percussion and hi-hats and things I used an RX5 - if you solo any of the cymbals you can hear the loops on them."

See how Charly Alberti uses Yamaha RX-5

Charly Alberti

Drummer

Soda Stereo

...
Verified via Photo

Entrevista a Charly sobre su set para revista El Musiquiatra (1988):

"... En cuanto al set electrónico Charly posee un envidiable Roland PM-16, para control Midi de disparos de pads y triggers, dos samplers Akai S-900 para la emisión de sonidos sampleados, la Linn 9000, el novísimo juego de mics y (?) para platillos Zildijan ZM-1, una Yamaha SPX 90 II, una Yamaha RX5 Rhythm Programmer, 6 triggers Detonators y un estabilizador de tensión Aris (Power Conditioner) ..."

See how Aeroplane uses Yamaha RX-5

Aeroplane

Aeroplane

...
Verified via YouTube

In a YouTube video, Aeroplane showcases his studio, where a Yamaha RX-5 drum machine is visible in the storage room.

See how Peter Erskine uses Yamaha RX-5

Peter Erskine

Drummer

Weather Report

...
Verified via Muzines

IN ADDITION TO his work with electronic percussion devices, Erskine has jumped headfirst into the synth and MIDI fray. His home studio contains a Casio FZ1 and CZ101, a Roland Super JX, a Korg DW8000 and Poly 800, a recently MIDI'd Oberheim OBXa, a Yamaha DX100 and Yamaha RX5, PMC1 and TX816.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Yamaha RX-5, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Roland D-50
Roland D-50 Synthesizers
4
Korg M1
Korg M1 Synthesizers
4
Akai S1000
Akai S1000 Audio Samplers
3
Roland Juno-106
Roland Juno-106 Synthesizers
3
Moog Prodigy
Moog Prodigy Synthesizers
3
Yamaha TX81Z
Yamaha TX81Z Sound Modules
3
Alesis HR-16
Alesis HR-16 Drum Machines
3
Yamaha DX100
Yamaha DX100 Synthesizers
3
Yamaha DX7
Yamaha DX7 Synthesizers
3

Community setups

Show yours
deepsignalstudios

deepsignalstudios

Gear IQ 493

sikaflex_musica

sikaflex_musica

Gear IQ 80

wintersunproject

wintersunproject

Gear IQ 230

burntsystems

burntsystems

Gear IQ 124

3 alternative and related items for Yamaha RX-5, curated by the Equipboard community.

Korg DDD-5

 

cheaper alternative

Similar sounds of snares and kicks, simple to use as well.

Yamaha RX15

$56.35

similar sound cheaper alternative
Roland R8 MKII

$775.00

Vintage or Discontinued similar sound

More Yamaha Drum Machines

Yamaha RY30

 

 
John Frusciante Autechre Bootsy Collins
9 artists using
Yamaha RY-10

 

 
Michael Münzing
1 artist using
Yamaha RX8

 

 
Scott Putesky Brian Warner
2 artists using
Korg Volca Beats

$119.99 - $159.99

# 7

Rank

Aphex Twin King Krule Damon Albarn
53 artists using
Korg Volca Kick

$109.99 - $159.99

# 20

Rank

Damon Albarn emma essex Ela Minus
7 artists using
Behringer RD-9

$237.00 - $339.00

# 26

Rank

Atsuo the Pineapple Donkey goreshit DJ TECHNORCH
7 artists using

Accessories & Related Items

Gear Guides