Yamaha RX8

3.5 (3)

2 Critic Reviews

1 Review

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Page last updated Aug 10, 2025

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Synth Universe

Yamaha RX8 Drum Machine

Synth Universe

Yamaha RX8 Demo

Alexey7

YAMAHA RX8 Drum Machine (1989) Sounds + Pattern Programming

Synth Mike

YAMAHA RX8 Short Demo

Ryuichiro Yamaki

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Critic Reviews

Yamaha RX8 Drum Machine (SOS Apr 89)

muzines.co.uk

The Yamaha RX8 drum machine is a budget-friendly option with 16-bit sound quality and a diverse range of 43 sounds. It shines with its MIDI capabilities and reverse sound features, making it versatile for studio use. However, the lack of velocity-sensitive pads and somewhat underwhelming kick and snare sounds may disappoint those seeking powerful drum tracks. While its user interface can be tedious, the RX8 offers good value for its price, especially for those willing to navigate its quirks for the sake of affordability.

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Yamaha RX8 (MT Jun 89)

muzines.co.uk

The Yamaha RX8 is a capable drum machine that offers a familiar Yamaha sound with improved 16-bit clarity and an easy-to-use interface. It features a wide array of sounds and a straightforward programming approach, ideal for those on a budget. However, the lack of velocity-sensitive pads is a notable drawback, limiting the dynamic range and making patterns sound mechanical. While external MIDI controllers can address this issue, it remains a limitation for those relying solely on the RX8. Overall, it's a solid choice for budget-conscious users who appreciate Yamaha's distinctive drum machine sound.

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3.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 3 Ratings

5 star

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3 star

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1 star

synth_mike

128

about 7 years ago

Oldskool, cheap machine

Olskool cheap sounding machine. Simple and easy to use

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Bassist Composer Music Producer

Genres:

Electronic Electronica Synthpop

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Scott Putesky

Guitarist, Music Producer

Marilyn Manson

Verified via Photo

“My defunct YAMAHA RX8 Drum Machine, which was one of several pieces of ‘my’ equipment that sadly fell subject to the collateral studio damage/needless acts of petulant Nihilism. The less said about that the better. This was such a revolutionary piece of kit at the time for rhythm programming, I was always a big advocate for the quality YAMAHA produced across the board, so when they dropped this offering of high-quality 16-bit resolution, it held great potential for the particular sound and direction we wanted to take the music too. I began using it to program our drums and with a MIDI controller, on our first two demo tapes: The Raw Boned Psalms and The Beaver Meat Cleaver Beat and then on the first ten or so shows on our official tour as an independent band, which began at Churchills in April ’90. Freddy then came in around mid-July and took over full drumming duties, but we continued to use it in conjunction with the live drums (to generate certain unique soundscapes that gave the music that extra edge), throughout stages of that three year long FL tour and on the rest of our demo tapes. I had this in and around all the recording processes right through until it met its unfortunate death during the Antichrist sessions.”

https://www.liveauctioneers.com/en-gb/item/93421763_daisy-berkowitz-studio-used-and-signed-drum-machine