Yamaha DD-65 Digital Drum Kit
Get creative with 8 touch-sensitive pads and 2 foot pedals! Loaded with authentic stereo samples, this digital drum set lets you sequence beats on 4 tracks.
Overall User Ratings (based on 94 ratings)
Submitted May 1, 2013 by Steve R in Lancaster, PA
"Great Little Set of Drums"
The DD65 is perfect for what I use it for. As a hobby, I use looping software to create songs that I drum to. I have a small house with three kids and I had been using similar drum sets for a long time for space/volume reasons. The set that I had for the past fifteen years finally died (it was a pad-set that needed an external sound module) and I wanted something that had sounds in it. This way, I could minimize the amount of programming I had to do. As soon as I plugged this in, I was off and running. I was able to create three of my own custom kits and record into my computer. The pad set up is pretty natural for a drummer and the pads themselves have a similar bounce to a practice pad. The biggest issue is that the pedals that come with it are really just buttons and difficult to use. Luckily, I had traditional electronic pedals from my old digital drum set that I use instead. If I didn't, I would have upgraded at some point. The built in speakers are not loud enough to cover the "tapping" of the sticks on the pads, so I don't use them. I have a small pair of powered studio speakers and headphones, both of which provide plenty of volume to show off the surprisingly good sound quality found inside the unit.
Musical Background:
Drummer for 25 years with a hobby studio
Musical Style:
rock, country, smooth jazz, fusion, alternative, electronic
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Submitted September 2, 2014 by Craig Martin in Milwaukee, WI
"Terrific Alternative to Boxes & "Canned"!"
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I purchased the DD-65 through "another retailer" (at the time I hadn't discovered zZounds! -sigh-) Due to the fact we now live in a town-home and I didn't have a "studio" set-up any longer, I needed something that would allow me to "quietly" add all types of percussion (but primarily a basic kit) to my recordings. After researching/reviewing/"agonizing", I took the chance on the DD-65. Wow. I have to qualify my review by stating that I have generally restricted my use to a fairly basic "analog" type kit sound, and have used one of the customized settings for this. It's my "go-to" for just about everything I do! I have used some of the other settings (of which there are dozens upon dozens!!) such as the bongos, and some of the "Latin Percussion" features, and they shine as well. For you "pro" drummers and "serious" musicians, I'll say that you may or may not appreciate the fidelity of the sounds as they come out of the unit, however; tweaking EQ on either a mixer, DAW, recorder can certainly bring out whatever sonics you're looking for!I paid a bit more than what the price is now (Sept. '14). I can say that for the money, this "fit-the-bill" perfectly for my use. Outside of the noise of the sticks on the pads, when using phones or a direct connect, it's silent.
Sound
Again, while "pro" drummers (I'm a multi-instrumentalist and drums aren't my primary by any means!) and serious students may find fault in the sonics, it seems to be pretty darned good! Plus, you have the ability to adjust the tone (to a degree) as well as the acoustics of the kit.
Features
This unit has many more features than I'll ever use. I think it would be of great benefit to working stiffs and students, as well as those who, like me, simply need a much more realistic and flexible option to beat-boxes.
Ease of Use
For all intends and purposes, it's a drum kit! There is a slight learning curve in all of the capabilities and features (such as reverb settings, recording, etc). The ability to change the settings of each pad (meaning the "assigned" sound) is easily learned. It's size does take some adjusting to, as initially (and even after 5 months of use) I still periodically hit the plastic case vs. the pads.
Quality
Seems very well made. I would expect that, as with other plastic cased items, with transport or constant handling, the case would begin to show some wear.
Value
Great deal. When one considers what "full-size" electronic kits cost, I believe the DD-65 is a terrific bargain.
Manufacturer Support
None needed at this time.
The Wow Factor
Not much of a "wow" factor in the DD-65, at least visually. However, people have been pretty amazed that the "drums" and percussion on my music has come from this "little" unit!
Musical Background:
Playing for 45+ years: guitar, bass, keyboards, piano, alto sax, clarinets, drums. Stopped playing out years ago, but recording
Musical Style:
Rock, pop, classical, blues
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Submitted July 24, 2009 by a customer from comcast.net
"THE BEST SO FAR!"
I really like them (other than having to order the adapter separate) when the midi problem is fixed they will be unstoppable this is the only "all in one" drum pad set that's worth a damn.
This comes from a drummer with 15 yrs. + experience.
Sound
WHAT MORE CAN YOU SAY, IT ROCKS
Features
LOTS OF Samples, lots of kits unlimited programing.
Ease of Use
every thing's where it's supposed to be as the point of view from a real drummer'
Quality
Better than the simmons kit indentations on the underside to accommodate a regular snare drum stand a plus.
Value
A screamin deal for the tubs your getting'
Manufacturer Support
I shot an email to yamaha regarding the hi- hat midi message problem, they requested me to take it to my nearest yamaha service center( one that repairs pro audio) and they will install a free hardware update. My service center accepted it, they will contact yamaha. we'll see how that turns out.
The Wow Factor
The design is perfect ,however the pedals are a little strange acting and will take a little more practice to master. other than that I seem to get pretty used to them. the pads are more sensitive than most I'v played which means I don't need ultra-heavy drumsticks smashing them to hear sound, There great!
Musical Background:
Hobbyist
Musical Style:
alternative
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Submitted April 12, 2008 by a customer from gmail.com
"A MIDI CONTROLLER??? Beware recording artists."
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I actually want to send it back right now because of the hi hat problem which I've mention several times already. I will wait for Yamaha to get back with me to make a final decision on whether the DD65 is worth buying or not. But like I said before if you are buying it purely for fun and practice then it is a decent product but definitely not worth
$200+.
Sound
I definitely would not give this a ten BUT it does admirably considering its price and what someone may use it for. The sounds(samples) are pretty good and you could get away with using the hand congo/bongo function for some live performances.
Features
Honestly I like the features. From the headphone/output to pad placement to song playing/practicing and song recording to different sesitivity levels to the midi... and that's where it falls apart. If you are using this to control midi be aware of the HI HAT PROBLEM!!! It only sends one hi hat not for the "closed hi hat hit", "open hi hat hit" and "foot closing hi hat hit". So if you are not planning to record midi like a quasi-real hi hat then you should be okay.
Ease of Use
The functions on this machine are pretty straight forward to use simply because it is simple. There are no programming sounds or changing sensitivity for each individual pad or routing different fx to different pad sounds. I believe that it would serve best as a practice pad and a small live performance where an acoustic drum set is not practical or allowed.
Quality
The DD65 is well built. I will not give it a ten because if I drop it I am not sure if will still work. I think Yamaha has a decent reputation for dependability and durability so I think it mostly depends on the user and also time will tell whether these pads will fall apart soon or not. If the ONE YEAR warranty is a sign of its longevity of lack there of, then that's a prediction I can't make.
Value
IT DOES NOT COME WITH AN AC ADAPTOR!!! I wish I would have known that before ordering this thing. I had to shell out another twenty dollars for one from Radio Shack! I would also have rated this higher if the midi functions for the hi hat worked properly but they don't. I hate to keep bringing it up but I think it a valid issue that needs to be known. Even as JUST a practice pad I don't think it is worth anywhere near $200.
Manufacturer Support
From what I've heard from others, not that great. A few people have posted in several forums about how they(Yamaha) won't fix the midi hi hat problem unless MANY PEOPLE complain about it. I think that is ludicrous because that is functionality that should be there. And to think that I'm buying a MIDI CONTROLLER which doesn't send the proper midi notes to have at the least a simple functioning hi hat is absurd. I honestly do not think a firmware update is to much to ask for.
The Wow Factor
Just from the two days that I've had it, people have been drawn to it and I think that can be attributed to the way it looks. Just the fact that it looks like some kind of drum thing is appeal enough for people to want to try it. I think the placement of the pads is excellent and is well balanced for aesthetics and playing. The only exception is the hi hat which I think should be higher so it does not block me when I am hitting the snare but that is feature/ease of use problem.
Musical Background:
Active Musician, Recording
Musical Style:
Christian Rock, Contemporary Christian Worship
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Submitted February 23, 2015 by George C in Tampa, FL
"Fun to play, keeps son intrigued"
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I bought this because my 6-year old wanted a drum set. I also had been wanting one in the back of my mind for a few years, so this seemed like a good buy. Quite a bit of different drum combinations make it pretty fun. Frankly, I didn't want to deal with all the hardware issues that can occur with real drums or buying a used set where I'd probably need to replace the heads and then tune them.
So far my son really enjoys playing with it. I would say this is a good bet to see if your kid really would like to get drums going - because the sets can change, it means that they won't get as bored so quickly. Having a parent that plays with them is important to any aspiring musician. When I get "my turn to play" he picks up my guitar and starts singing and playing along to my drum beats! Good times for both of us.
I would say this has helped ignite a potential life long love of creating and playing music for my little guy, it doesn't take up a ton of room (and can get put away when not in use in his closet) and it does MIDI in/out. It's a pretty rad product if you ask me.
Musical Background:
Played for 17 years - I have experience in playing Trumpet, Guitar, Bass guitar and now Drums!
Musical Style:
Rock, Blues, Jazz, Punk Rock
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Submitted May 5, 2011 by a customer from comp-u-pro.com
"Great Little Drum Kit in an Itty-Bitty Box + Excellent Price."
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This would be a definite hand-me-down, but probably last me 3 or 4 years - or until the new models come out.
Sound
For what it is and how I intend to use it, I thought it would be great. Unfortunately my boys didn't have the interest in it I thought they would. We're returning it only for that reason. It's a great tool for teaching rhythm; that’s why I got it. My boys just weren’t ready for it.
Features
Excellent! Way more than I would use, at least to start. It records, does tap tempo and lots of other cool features, not to mention all the non-drum sounds you can get out of it.
Ease of Use
To me it was great and easy to use. My wife didn't like it because it made noise and had too many buttons. So basically, my kids couldn't use it unless I was home.
Quality
Seemed well made and durable. I test drove a couple of earlier used models (DD-55c) and they were still working fine even after commercial use.
Value
Really, after seeing it, it seemed a little expensive at the MSRP. If I was a working drummer it would be a no brainer though, because I can see it fitting right into a nice set of acoustic or electric drums and has a lot of cool effects.
Manufacturer Support
I've always had good luck with Yamaha.
The Wow Factor
It's a little on the gaget side of things; I like that. I think it's fun to just whack out a little rhythm at time and really works off agressions ;-).
Musical Background:
Active Musician, Guitar/Vocal
Musical Style:
35 Years Fusion/Jazz/Rock/Crowd Pleaser
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Submitted December 29, 2011 by a customer from comcast.net
"Great drum set for practicing and portability."
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Great product, fast shipping, disappointed in original box shipping because my son found it on the front porch 2 weeks before Christmas and it ruined the surprise, happy with the sound and set up of the drums
Sound
My son has a real drum set and takes private lessons; but he wanted to show others his talent and we didn't want to haul his drum set so we decided to try this one for traveling purposes. He likes the sound and has played it for hours since we bought it. I like the headphones option. He tends to play longer if no one is complaining that they can't hear to do homework etc.
Features
My son is 10 and right now it has more features that he will currently use.
Ease of Use
This drum set was basically set up to be pluged into a power cord and attached to a snare stand base and you are ready to play. My son really likes the hand drum setting.
Quality
We have only had the drum for just under 1 week; but is seems really well made.
Value
I have been pleased with the product.
Manufacturer Support
The reason I scored the company lower on this section was because I ordered it as a Christmas gift for my son and when they shipped it the drum showed up on my front door step in its original box. It came earlier than the projected arrival date and my son found it on the front door step; which totally ruined the Christmas surprise. I would think that since it is December and parents are purchasing gifts for their children that it would have been shipped in an unmarked box. I was disappointed to spend that much money and have the surprise ruined 2 weeks before Christmas.
The Wow Factor
Like I mentioned before I really like the option of the headphones. It allows my son to practice beats in his own room and allows us the freedom to do homework or other activities with our other kids.
Musical Background:
son has taken lessons for 1 year
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Submitted November 23, 2014 by a customer from hotmail.com
"Great Purchase!"
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Would recommend for children or adults. Easy to assemble, and sounds great. Chose this drum kit because I have limited space, and it worked better than I expected. Small footprint, but big sound and easy to use. With one USB cable I can record into my DAW. I am really glad I made this purchase.
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Submitted August 11, 2009 by a customer from bigpond.com
"A MAJOR DISAPPOINTMENT"
Features
I am in Australia, but because Yamaha here doesn't offer the dd65 I had my daughter (Flight attendant V Australia) pick one up from Sam Ash in Westminster LA. I have a dd55 but wanted to upgrade and was looking forward to getting the 8 pads rather than 7 and other advances that I assumed would be incorporated in a newer model. If I could bring this back and get a refund I would. The DD55 has the ability to adjust individual pad volume and this is absolutely critical to balancing the sound of a kit from place to place. For some insane reason they've dropped this feature on the DD65. That's just crazy and in my opinion makes them unusable for live performance. Also the sounds aren't as good as the DD55, particularly the hi hat. Also there is a problem with the hi hat control when using the midi function and a sound module. The pedal doesn't work!!
Regardless of the 8 pads and improved position of the hi hat pad there is nothing that will compensate for the lunacy of deleting the individual pad volume control.
Musical Background:
experienced drummer
Musical Style:
rock
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Submitted November 8, 2011 by a customer from yahoo.com
Yamaha DD-65 Digital Drum Customer Review
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Sound
Learn the system. Make it easier to input a sound with one movement.
Features
After I added the Tower KICK. It took this system to higher level
Quality
I had a event which it rain. the system did not fail I was able to cover it.
The Wow Factor
add black.
Musical Background:
Active Musician
Musical Style:
Life stlye percussionist
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Submitted April 22, 2014 by James K
"Fast Shipping"
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The product was as advertised and worked perfectly. I accidently clicked on 1-star for overall and because Zzounds web programmers aren't very well trained, I am unable to change my selection. Overall should have been 4 stars.
Musical Style:
all styles
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Submitted August 31, 2014 by Michael Shaw in Clearlake Oaks, CA
"Great Drum"
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I have found that I'm a terrible drummer if I sit down to a full set. But this is more my cup of tea. The sounds are great. There is much more to this instrument in the way of other sounds like bass, guitar etc etc. I haven't tapped into everything yet but I'm working on it. Hard to go wrong with it. I just can't imagine why someone would want to lug around a full set of drums to gigs when they could have this. The manual gives a lot of midi info too. It could use a little more explaining but you know manuals are never perfect.
Musical Background:
Play professionally 50 years
Musical Style:
R&R,Pop & C&W
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Submitted January 9, 2014 by Brenda S in San Juan, PR
"EXCELLENT PRODUCT!"
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I bought this drum kit as a gift for my partner... She can't stop playing it... The sound is excellent. Love it!
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Submitted April 16, 2009 by a customer from comcast.net
"Begginers Review, FUN FUN FUN"
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I've had it maybe a couple weeks now & I think I am progressing quite nicely for that time frame, much better than I would be on an acoustic set. You'll definatly want to get extra sticks for this, though the included ones aren't bad, 5a's seem much more durable. Also, the pedals are very light and like to slip around on the floor, but luckily since I have a carpet floor I was able to solve this problem by attaching velcro to the bottom of the pedals. Overall I'm very glad I bought this, drumming is so much fun & living in an apartment building with nearly 400 other tenants, I can use headphones & don't disturb anyone.
Sound
Sound is ok, better than you'd expect for the price. Plenty of kits to choose from, even includes a farm animal kit which my niece really enjoyed. If you want a list of the included kits find the pdf manual online.
Features
I only give nine stars on features because there is only 5 banks for user songs, any songs downloaded online must share these 5 banks with user recorded songs. Also, though I'm not finished yet playing with it as a midi controller, I can not get the hi hat pedal working properly either (using Battery 3). It gets it's own bank & signal within battery 3, but the hi hat sounds the same whether I'm pressing it or not, but it does let me "choke" the hi hat when pressed after hitting the hi hat.
Other than that, especially as a begginer the features are great! A wide selection of songs to play with, from easy to complex, and every time you load a song the kit changes for that song (but you can still use a differant kit). If you have trouble getting the timing right, just hit the "click" button and the metronome (includes alternate time signatures as well) will play with the song, and of course you can choose to play along with recorded percussion stilll playing as well. One more cool thing is the three holes in the bottom for fitting it to a snare stand, allows for a much better playing angle.
Ease of Use
I've barely needed the manual, pretty straightforward stuff.
Quality
Tough plastic, just take care of it & it should be fine.
Value
Probably the only kit for the price with a realistic layout plus bass & hi hat pedals. Considering that plus all the features included, the dd65 is a steal at $220.
The Wow Factor
Very compact & sleek for a drum set.
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Submitted August 4, 2011
"Pre teen boy rocks the house"
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Well, eventually we may get a real set of drums, but first we'll see if the interest is still there.
Sound
Good sound quality that is realistic. you do need to hit it in a sweet spot to get richer fuller sound. There is good variety of sounds, even barnyard.
The pads are bit small.
Features
It comes with wooden drumsticks and pedal attachemnts, but I also got a CD and headphones in the deluxe package.
Ease of Use
Pretty easy, just pull it right out of the box and plug it in. You can also opt to use batteries if you are taking it somewhere.
I started playing around right away, but there are lots of extra features I can wait to explore.
The Wow Factor
It looks nice without being too small or too bulky.
Musical Background:
Hobbyist
Musical Style:
variety of styles
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Submitted December 15, 2009
"Midi Hi Hat problem"
Sound
Hi,
Bought this to use as midi trigger for EZdrummer and the Hi hat problem was a bummer. However 1 call to Yamaha in Milton Keynes, they picked it up, fixed it, and returned it all within a week. All works fine now.That's good after sales service!
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Submitted September 17, 2009 by a customer from yahoo.com
"Free Flash ROM update for midi high hat problem"
Features
Just wanted people to know that the high hat open/closed midi note problem has been fixed for new units. If you buy or already own a unit that has the high hat midi problem a local yamaha service center will upgrade the flash memory for free to fix this problem
Musical Background:
actuive musician and recording engineer
Musical Style:
rock, pop, prog, dance, soundscapes
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