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Average Price: $100

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$601+

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Description

Product specs

Brand Yamaha
Model RX7 Digital Rhythm Programmer
Finish Black
Year 1987
Made In Japan
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 are the main features of the Yamaha RX7 drum machine?

The Yamaha RX7 is a digital rhythm programmer featuring 24 pads, 16-voice polyphony, and MIDI connectivity options including MIDI Input, Output, and Through. It was released in 1987 and is known for its versatility in creating complex drum patterns.

How does the Yamaha RX7 connect to other MIDI devices?

The Yamaha RX7 includes MIDI Input, Output, and Through ports, allowing it to be easily integrated with other MIDI devices for synchronized performance or to control external sound modules.

Is the Yamaha RX7 suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Yamaha RX7 is suitable for live performances due to its robust build, intuitive interface, and the ability to store and recall complex drum patterns quickly.

How many sounds can the Yamaha RX7 produce simultaneously?

The Yamaha RX7 can produce up to 16 sounds simultaneously, thanks to its 16-voice polyphony, making it capable of handling complex drum arrangements.

Can the Yamaha RX7 be used with modern DAWs?

Yes, the Yamaha RX7 can be used with modern DAWs through its MIDI connectivity, allowing it to be integrated into contemporary digital music production setups.

Nacho Marty Meyer

Nacho Marty Meyer

YAMAHA RX7 (1987) Drum Machine - No Talking Demo

Video thumbnail for YAMAHA RX7 (1987) Drum Machine - No Talking Demo by Nacho Marty Meyer

YAMAHA RX7 (1987) Drum Machine - No Talking Demo

Nacho Marty Meyer

Nacho Marty Meyer

Video thumbnail for Yamaha RX7 Drum Machine by Synth Universe

Yamaha RX7 Drum Machine

Synth Universe

Synth Universe

Video thumbnail for Yamaha RX7 IN 2021 ? by Musician Paradise

Yamaha RX7 IN 2021 ?

Musician Paradise

Musician Paradise

Video thumbnail for YAMAHA RX7 Short Demo by Ryuichiro Yamaki

YAMAHA RX7 Short Demo

Ryuichiro Yamaki

Ryuichiro Yamaki

Video thumbnail for Yamaha RX7 Digital Rhythm Programmer -  Controlled by Ableton Push by SUBTOKYOSHOP Music Gears

Yamaha RX7 Digital Rhythm Programmer - Controlled by Ableton Push

SUBTOKYOSHOP Music Gears

SUBTOKYOSHOP Music Gears

Video thumbnail for Yamaha RX7 by MyRetroGear Demos

Yamaha RX7

MyRetroGear Demos

MyRetroGear Demos

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Yamaha RX7.

Features and functionality

  • The Yamaha RX7 excels in producing a lo-fi 80s synthpop sound, though it lacks the power of a Linn drum machine.

    Source
  • The RX7 can trigger unintended sounds at certain velocity values when connected via MIDI, impacting its utility in dynamic MIDI sequencing.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners note the RX7's menu system can be tedious, requiring acclimation to Yamaha's programming style.

    Source
  • Long-term users highlight the RX7's responsive pads to velocity, enhancing its utility in dynamic performances.

    Source
  • Owners note that the RX7 generally responds correctly to DAW-set velocity changes, yet specific velocity values often trigger additional sounds.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The RX7 is best as an auxiliary percussion source, adding unique percussion layers to existing drum tracks.

    Source
  • Layering RX7 snares with other drum sounds can enhance kick and snare presence for genres ranging from electronic to pop.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Turning off master sync send in FL Studio's MIDI settings can resolve the RX7's velocity issues when sequencing drums.

    Source

Comparisons

  • While the Yamaha RX7 can be played via an external keyboard, it experiences more issues with velocity-triggered sounds compared to the Roland R-8M.

    Source

4.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 7 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Bootsy Collins uses Yamaha RX7

Bootsy Collins

Singer, Bassist

Funkadelic

...
Verified via YouTube

At the 21:26 mark of the Reverb YouTube video titled "Bootsy Collins Tours His Incredible Home Studio 'The Boot Cave'," a Yamaha RX7 Rhythm Programmer drum machine is visible at the extreme right of the screen in Bootsy Collins' studio.

See how Junkie XL uses Yamaha RX7

Junkie XL

Composer, Music Producer

Tiësto vs. Junkie XL

...
Verified via YouTube

At 9:06 Junkie XL shows his Yamaha RX7

See how Jeramy "Rainbow" Gritter uses Yamaha RX7

Jeramy "Rainbow" Gritter

Guitarist, Composer

The Voidz

...
Verified via Twitter

In this tweet, Jeramy shows his Yamaha RX7.

J

Joakim

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via CROWDSPACER STUDIO NYC

According to a list of equipment which is used in his studio, Crowdspacer, Joakim is also a user of Yamaha RX7.

See how Cinthie uses Yamaha RX7

Cinthie

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via MusicTech

As seen in the drum machine shelf photos of this MusicTech article.

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 RX7, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

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chadthebastard

chadthebastard

Gear IQ 206

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