NAMM 2008: Roland adds TD-9 V-Drums

Roland's V-Drums have already made a splash with percussionists the world over and the company has now launched the TD-9S/TD-9SX. The TD-9S offers all of the features and advantages of the TD-9SX electronic drum set but with rubber-surface tom pads instead of mesh.

The TD-9 is the anchor of Roland's new 'Mid-line' V-Drums kits. It has hundreds of new sounds, real-audio songs & patterns onboard, plus new practice function of Scope & Quick Rec/Play built-in. You also get even V-Hi-Hat (VH-11) full compatibility and 3-way ride triggering available, as well as a Scope Mode skill builder built-in. With its large, backlit display, plus oversized buttons and controls, the TD-9's icon-based interface makes editing sounds and customising kits, fast and fun.

Drummers can play along with real-audio backing songs to help build their skills. They can also use the USB port to import audio files (.wav) of their choice. Quick Record and Quick Play features allow drummers to immediately record and play back solo drum parts, or drum parts performed with the backing songs.

The new MDS-9 drum rack offers a sturdy four-leg design with new, improved ball-joint mount for snare and cymbals, and angle-adjustable hi-hat arms, for fast, and flexible component placement.

The CYM-10 Cymbal Mount optional package includes three essential components as spare parts for V-Drums owners: Stopper, Felt Washer, and Wing Nut for V-Cymbal. Compatible products include all Roland CY cymbals series used in the existing TD-20/-12/-9/-6/-3 series drum kits: ie, CY-15R (ride), CY-14C (crash), CY-12R/C (ride/crash) and dual-trigger cymbal pads CY-8/-5. For more spec see Roland's website.

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