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Description

Perfect for musicians seeking to enrich their soundscapes, the Zoom RhythmTrak RT-123 is a powerhouse of rhythm in a compact package. Whether you're a budding producer, a performing DJ, or just a musician looking for a reliable groove companion, this electronic drum pad delivers unmatched versatility and creativity. With 297 preset patterns and 80 drum kits, your beats will come to life with rich textures and dynamic layers, making it easier than ever to infuse energy into your tracks.

The RT-123 is designed with user-friendly controls that make it accessible even for those who are new to drum machines. Its self-lighting pads provide a visual rhythm guide, ensuring you never miss a beat. Ideal for live performances, this device allows seamless pattern changes with a simple tap, thanks to its intuitive Groove Play mode. With 99 user-programmable patterns and 99 song storage capacity, your creative possibilities are nearly endless.

The MIDI IN connector ensures you can synchronize the RT-123 with your existing setup, integrating effortlessly with other equipment. Plus, the LINE IN jack lets you connect external instruments, blending your own sounds with the RT-123’s robust backing tracks. Whether you're crafting demos or enhancing live shows, the Zoom RhythmTrak RT-123 is a dynamic partner in your musical journey.

Key Features:

  • 80 drum kits and 25 bass programs
  • 297 preset patterns with 99 user-programmable patterns
  • Self-lighting pads for visual rhythm guidance
  • Groove Play mode for live performance flexibility
  • MIDI IN connector for synchronization with external equipment
  • LINE IN jack for external instrument connection
  • Compact and easy-to-use design
SynthMania

SynthMania

ZOOM RhythmTrak RT-123 - several cool patterns

Video thumbnail for ZOOM RhythmTrak RT-123 - several cool patterns by SynthMania

ZOOM RhythmTrak RT-123 - several cool patterns

SynthMania

SynthMania

Video thumbnail for A Quick Jazz Drum n Bass Jam Performed on the Zoom RhythmTrak RT-123 by RaveTracks

A Quick Jazz Drum n Bass Jam Performed on the Zoom RhythmTrak RT-123

RaveTracks

RaveTracks

Video thumbnail for Zoom Rhythm Track RT-123 drum tutorial by Marc Bloom

Zoom Rhythm Track RT-123 drum tutorial

Marc Bloom

Marc Bloom

Video thumbnail for Zoom RT-123 Rhythm machine does a good job by Gearfacts

Zoom RT-123 Rhythm machine does a good job

Gearfacts

Gearfacts

Video thumbnail for Zoom RhythmTrak RT-123: Serving up the Drums and Bass! by Gearfacts

Zoom RhythmTrak RT-123: Serving up the Drums and Bass!

Gearfacts

Gearfacts

Video thumbnail for Zoom RhythmTrak RT 123 Pattern 2 by Brook Hoover

Zoom RhythmTrak RT 123 Pattern 2

Brook Hoover

Brook Hoover

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Zoom RhythmTrak RT-123.

Features and functionality

  • The Zoom RhythmTrak RT-123 has only one MIDI port, which is a limitation compared to the Alesis SR16's more comprehensive MIDI connectivity.

    Source
  • The RT-123 requires sending a "Program Change" message to switch kits when used as a sound module, which some controllers like the Arturia Keystep Pro may not support directly.

    Source
  • The RT-123 can receive start messages from controllers like the Keystep Pro and maintain the assigned kit if the clock is set to internal.

    Source
  • The RT-123 allows bass parts to be played over MIDI on a different channel than the drums, surprising some users with its versatility.

    Source
  • Users appreciate the ability to make custom kits, utilizing three drum tracks and one bass track for personalized sound creation.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Alesis SR16 is noted for having dated sounds that aren't quite vintage or modern, whereas the Zoom's sound quality is a point of concern for users considering a trade.

    Source
  • Some users prefer the RT-123 over Boss and Alesis drum machines for its sequencer and real-time recording slider, despite its lack of MIDI out.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • The Alesis SR16's MIDI in, out, and thru capabilities are beneficial for users integrating it with DAWs like Ableton Live, enhancing sequencing flexibility.

    Source
  • A workaround involves converting MIDI CC messages to Program Change messages using a computer or standalone MIDI processing box like BOMEbox or MIDIHub.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Users find value in using the SR16 as a clock source for sequencing other gear like the Volca Keys and Volca FM, showcasing its versatility in a hybrid setup.

    Source
  • The RT-123's dual drum tracks allow assigning different kits to each track, enabling kit switching by altering the MIDI channel.

    Source
  • The RT-123's sounds, while considered cheesy, can be creatively pitched to shine in certain musical contexts, making it suitable for unique jamming sessions.

    Source

Build quality

  • The RT-123 features velocity-sensitive pads, providing more dynamic control than typically expected at its price point.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Owners have found the RT-123 second-hand at surprisingly low prices, such as £12, highlighting its affordability for a capable drum machine.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Zoom Rhythmtrak 123

soundonsound.com

Zoom's RhythmTrak RT-123 delivers a compact, affordable drum machine experience, packing a surprising punch with 105 drum and bass samples and 297 preset patterns. It's perfect for musicians on a budget, though it lacks advanced sound editing features found in its predecessor, the RT-234. The absence of MIDI Out is a drawback for studio use, yet its ease of use, impressive preset rhythms, and versatility make it a solid choice for guitarists and keyboardists seeking a reliable rhythm companion. With its intuitive design and vibrant lighting, it's a small but mighty addition to any setup.

positive

4.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 5 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Nick Zinner uses Zoom RhythmTrak RT-123

Nick Zinner

Guitarist

Yeah Yeah Yeahs

...
Verified via Premier Guitar

Photos and text about Nick Zinner's pedalboard on Premier Guitar confirm that it contains the Zoom RhythmTrak RT-123 drum machine. (Source: Premier Guitar, Rig Rundown: The Yeah Yeah Yeahs' Nick Zinner by Rebecca Dirks)

See how Bob Log III uses Zoom RhythmTrak RT-123

Bob Log III

Guitarist

Doo Rag

...
Verified via Photo

Bob Log III incorporates the Zoom RhythmTrak RT-123 into his performances to enhance his foot drumming, adeptly starting and stopping the drum machine during live sets. A user-uploaded photo confirms his use of this gear.

See how Laura Kidd uses Zoom RhythmTrak RT-123

Laura Kidd

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

At 2:33 in her YouTube home studio tour video, the box for Laura's Zoom RhythmTrak RT-123 is briefly visible on screen, hiding behind a sparkly gold heart.

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 Zoom RhythmTrak RT-123, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

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C

captain_cascade

Gear IQ 107

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