Roland has just announced the latest in its groundbreaking line of V-Drums: the TD-17. This value-packed eDrums family is available as three 5-piece kits or as a standalone module. We’ll check out the differences down the page. But first, an overview.
The TD-17 sound module draws inspiration from Roland’s flagship TD-50, with 50 preset kits and a powerful sound engine that features customizable tuning, muffling, strainer tension, EQ, compression, and room response per pad. Not only that, but the TD-17 allows users to import their own drum samples via SD/HC card — a first for a V-Drums module at this level. This is perfect for players who have third-party drum libraries or who want to sample their own acoustic kits. Audio in and MIDI out over Bluetooth eliminate cables for practice, lessons, and virtual instrument control.
Three new pads and a robust new stand give the TD-17KVX greater realism and performance than even past generations of V-Drums have achieved. The 12″ PDX-12 tunable mesh snare and KD-10 kick tower feel great in the hands and underfoot, with realistic dynamics and a quick response that both acoustic players and veteran V-Drummers will enjoy. Also new is the stand-mounted VH-10 hi-hat, which permits time-sensitive pumping and splashing and a convincing degree of closed-open control, all with the familiar action of your favorite hi-hat stand. The MDS-4KVX rack stand is sleek and stable, with boom arms for cymbals and MDH-12 pad mounts for toms and snare.
Also included with the TD-17KVX are Roland’s PDX-series tunable mesh V-Toms and CY-series V-Cymbals, which includes a 3-zone 13″ ride with separate bell, bow, and edge triggers for timekeeping and washing, or for triggering separate songs and FX.
The TD-17 is available in two other configurations — the TD-17KV, which substitutes a foot-controlled hi-hat and includes one less cymbal, and the TD-17KL, which subs in an 8″ mesh snare and rubber toms and excludes Bluetooth — or as a standalone module. Whatever your budget allows, we feel the TD-17 family is a strong move forward and a considerable upgrade from other electronic drums in its class.
