street priceThe Yamaha RX21 represents Yamaha's most affordable entry into the drum machine market, positioned at the bottom end of their product line alongside the higher-end RX-11 and RX-15 models. All three models share the same fundamental digitally sampled drum sounds but differ in their control functions and output configurations.
The RX21 features a wedge-shaped chassis with a plain, high-tech aesthetic. The unit measures 13½ inches wide by 8 inches deep by 2 inches at its thickest point, making it highly portable. The top panel is equipped with functional rubber press buttons, though they're not oversized. An LCD window positioned on the far left of the top face displays all necessary programming information for both real-time and step-time entry, as well as pattern construction.
The machine incorporates nine different digitally sampled voices, each carefully sourced from specific acoustic instruments:
The reviewer notes that the cymbals sound particularly realistic, though the tom sounds could benefit from more roundness and ambience. The claps are described as having substantial midrange presence but could use more sibilance.
The RX21 comes equipped with 40 pre-set patterns stored in ROM, which serve as starting points for composition. These patterns can be used as-is or modified and saved to RAM without destroying the originals. The machine provides 56 user-programmable memory locations and has a total capacity for 100 patterns. Several "tacets" (silent passages) are included to add variation to patterns.
A comprehensive pattern book is included with the unit, featuring musical notation for all pre-set patterns along with detailed descriptions of their characteristics and suggested uses. For example, the documentation explains how specific patterns use accent placement and rhythmic techniques to create particular grooves.
The RX21 can store up to four complete songs, with each song capable of holding a maximum of 512 parts. Songs are constructed by chaining multiple patterns together. To prevent memory limitations, the machine includes cassette dump functionality, allowing users to save pattern data to tape and reload it later.
The control layout is organized logically across the top panel:
Many functions are accessed by pressing buttons multiple times in sequence. Volume adjustment between instruments requires careful attention, as proper balancing is essential to achieving convincing results.
The rear panel features minimal but essential connections:
The machine is designed to be intuitive enough for first-time drum machine users. The reviewer successfully programmed the unit within an hour without consulting the manual, suggesting straightforward operation. The included owner's manual provides comprehensive guidance for those who need it. The RX21 is particularly well-suited for use with Portastudios and similar home recording setups.
At an afforadble retail price in 1985, the RX21 is explicitly targeted at entry-level users and those purchasing their first drum machine. Despite its budget positioning, Yamaha maintains the quality of the digitally sampled sounds found in their higher-end models, making compromises primarily in output flexibility and control features rather than sound quality.
Country of origin / production: Japan
Recommend product to a friend| Production start | 1985 |
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