Yamaha198632-voiceSample-Based / Digital$Budget($50–250)
Yamaha RX5
Producers wanting clean, expandable 16-bit PCM drums with real mixing flexibility.
Find on ReverbUsed-gear listings, graded conditionCheck prices on eBayBroader inventory, live auctions
Strengths
- 16-bit samples were noticeably cleaner than most rivals of its era
- Expandable ROM voice cards let you add new drum/percussion sounds
- 8 individual outputs give real per-drum mixing control
Trade-offs
- ROM voice cards are increasingly rare and expensive to find today
- Menu-based editing is slower than knob-per-function machines
Full Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Brand | Yamaha |
| Model | RX5 |
| Era | 1986 |
| Typical Price Tier | Budget ($50–250) |
| Sound Source | 16-bit PCM samples (expandable via ROM cards) |
| Voice Count | 32 |
| Voice Type | Digital/Sample-based |
| Steps Per Pattern | 96 |
| Pattern Memory | 100 |
| Individual Outputs | Yes (8) |
| Sync / MIDI | MIDI + DIN Sync |
| Swing / Shuffle | Yes |
A relative used-market guide, not a live quote — real prices vary by condition, region, and timing. Check the Reverb/eBay links on any item for current listings.
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Match Score Explorer
Weight what matters to your workflow. Every deck is re-scored live against your priorities, benchmarked against the Yamaha RX5.
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This deckYamaha RX5
Match64
Flexibility72
Portability58
Ease of Use75
Tonal Neutrality50
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Maintenance & Supplies
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