Yamaha FGDP - Something truly different

[@TheQuestforGroove]

►► Gear recommendations page → questforgroove.com/gear-recommendations/ Timelinks: 0:00 - Intro jam 0:27 - The main takeaway 1:28 - Check for updates! 1:50 - Pad sensitivity & response 5:14 - Things get interesting 7:01 - Pad Layout + Standalone 10:44 - Recreating the QFG layout 11:07 - Tom placement 12:19 - Onboard sound demos! 12:24 - Percussion kit 12:34 - Beatbox kit 13:02 Dua Lipa Jam 13:26 - Acoustic Kit 14:26 - Comparison with drum VST 15:27 - Replacing all my gear? 16:57 - FGDP-30 or FGDP-50? 19:47 - FGDP as audio interface? 20:43 - This might not last… 22:26 - Funky outro jam

[@ReligionAndMaterialismDebunked]

First. Shalom.

[@buxycat]

Something quite important you missed out from your Gear Recommendations/ Shopping List: cables/ interconnects. The other thing I wanted to say was thank you, thank you, thank you. I've looked at some of your free lessons, which have helped me make a decision.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

@@buxycat Ah yes cables... honestly never thought of that until now. I'll make a not of it. Thanks!

[@buxycat]

@@TheQuestforGroove I was a hi-fi enthusiast in my youth, so budgeting for decent speaker cable and interconnects is just second nature to me. I think it was more knowing which *type* of cables I would have needed for the Maschine Mikro set up. I've just read this morning that the FGDP-50 uses a micro USB for MIDI, I assumed the MIDI port was the one I've seen USB thumb drives plugged into. An idea I had, when I thought the USB micro port was for battery charging: I've got USB cables that have magnetic tips, for swapping between micro/ USB C or Lightning tips: I was just going to leave a spare tip plugged into the charging port. If those cables are rated for data transfer, can I use those for MIDI?

[@TheQuestforGroove]

@@buxycat yeah any usb cable can also be used for transferring midi data. In most cases with finger drumming you only need usb cables and the only audio cables would be the ones connecting the speakers and/or headphones to the audio interface!

[@BrandonMilner]

Just discovered your channel, and it’s so refreshing to see a presenter who is articulate, clear, and doesn’t waste my time by trying to figure out the product while he’s using it. Really a joy to watch! I subscribed!

[@buxycat]

Hi, I'm a new student who's just ordered a FGDP-50. I was close to Maschine Mikro 3, because I hear what you're saying about pad quality, but having to buy an audio interface, dealing with cables, or even have to find a place to put the stuff and sit and play it. I also agreed with your point about I'm more likely to spend time time drumming if I can just pick something up and be playing in seconds. I'm in my mid 50s, I can't be doing with all that, I just want to sit in my nice comfy armchair and try to tap buttons at the right time to music I love. I also think the FGDP-50 will be far more ergonomically friendly for my hands than a 4x4 pad. That's not to say that I might not get a MIDI set up one day.; it's just I want to focus on learning how to finger drum, not learning how a DAW works.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Makes a lot of sense!

[@buxycat]

@@TheQuestforGroove I had an epiphany last night: Around 20 years ago, I bought a copy of Rock Band Beatles and the Rock Band Portable Drum Kit, for my Xbox 360. I had so much fun. I bought Rock Band 3, and also paid for downloadable songs. Microsoft switched off the 360 servers a while ago, I think I can still access my paid for songs (including some Fleetwood Mac).My point is, I've got access to a library of a few hundred songs, by the original artists, where I can turn the drum track off and have some kind of visual guide of what to hit and when. This is going to make learning so much fun. Back then, I had an opportunity to play a real drum kit. Over the course of a few hours, I went from never having played drums before, to being trusted with a snare drum that costs more than the FGPD-50 does, then being able to hold a basic beat together for a few minutes, whilst three other semi-pro musicians jammed with me. I was so into it, that I was seriously looking into an electric kit, but the reality of my physical problems stopped me, as well as where the heck do I put a drum kit? It was ending up looking at electric drum kits on Amazon that lead me down the path the the FGPD-50. I'm so excited.

[@buxycat]

@@TheQuestforGroove So..... the FGPD-50 arrived today. Took a few hours to establish the battery is faulty. I'm going to return it for refund. It's not all bad news though: I was interested in using GarageBand is the first part of it, I have the silly Rock Band Keytar thing, which can be used as a MIDI controller, thought I could get a wireless dongle and connect to my iPad or MacBook and use my bluetooth earbuds. I don't think I mentioned that I played sax for a few years. I had to give it up, jaw issues. But this is how I have a Yamaha WX-5 MIDI wind controller (the limited edition blue one, with a tone generator that specialises in wind, strings and synths). It's eight octave, amongst other tricks. I didn't touch The Stick (as I called my WX-5) after I had to stop playing acoustic sax, too heart breaking. I think I can play it in a way that doesn't make jaw issues, certainly could with an expression pedal. I may need ot send it back to Yamaha though, as the sax style mouthpiece is absolutely stuck on their, there's delicate stuff going on under there; I really need to swap to the recorder style mouthpiece so I don't end up using jaw for expression. I have the option of a MIDI keyboard with pads at a later date, and I'll have the wireless dongle. I have one thought to leave with you, that might be of benefit to new students.My first 30-40 minutes were naturally just going through kit sounds. My second session, I'm working through your beginner lessons and I'm working on the Basic 8th Note Pattern. I get to a point where I'm getting frustrated with myself a bit because I was having trouble hitting the kick with my thumb hard enough and I could play this beat on a real drum kit, nearly 20 years ago. I make a cup of tea and I really want to pick the finger drum up again, but I know my hands are tired, my brain is tired, which is a bad time to practise. So, I just started tapping my fingers on my leg or side table, and saying or thinking the beats. If it needs saying, I'm using using my fingers as I would on the pads, just not having to be so mindful of wrist technique. I did that for a few minutes here and there, as I'm relaxing with my cup of tea. I soon had the correct fingers doing the correct things, at the correct time, without having to think about it. I finish my tea, reach for the finger drum and within seconds I'm doing the Basic 8th Note Pattern, without thinking about it, for a few bars at a time, before it would fall apart. Good enough to have a sense of satisfaction and progress to have crack at the the Basic 16th Note Pattern, which was back to tricky and frustrating, so time to give it a break. Put finger drum on charge, go make tea, come back and discover the battery is faulty, which I had suspected earlier on in the day. But my point is that a student can be practising their patterns and beats (to get it under their fingers), any time, any place. I took a photo on my phone of the practise patterns, so I could always have it to hand, if away from home. I had completely forgotten that when I played sax, I'd sometimes just lean back in my armchair, left hand on my sternum, right hand belly button and I'd practise fingering scales, modes, runs in thirds. Anyway, I have the option of buying a MIDI keyboard with pads in the future, a 4x2 might be better for my hands anyway there's a reason I was having an issue with activating the kick pad, I'd just fingers on a 4x2. I've always got an iPad and GB, if I get the itch. Learning some drum patterns would be useful, so I'll carry on with your lessons. All the best to you Rob, thank you for your part in my musical journey.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

@@buxycat I'm a huge proponent of taking breaks. In future courses I actually promote practicing some things for only 5 minutes and then just calling it a day and come back the next day. That seems to work very well for a lot of difficult things. I hope the new pad controller arrives soon, with a working battery!

[@buxycat]

@@TheQuestforGroove thanks Rob.

[@ArtParsegov]

I waited for standalone solution for years, and now it's come! Thanks Yamaha!

[@AntonisAdelfidis_UnderGround]

I bought the 30 model for my son because he has been starting to learn finger drumming and we are very satisfied. Excellent piece of hardware!

[@thquib]

This is the first video I’ve seen of yours and it’s fantastic! Just ordered my FGDP-30 and am excited to try it out. Thank you for what you do!

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Thank you! I'm not doing that many gear reviews anymore (I now mainly want my courses on questforgroove.com to be top notch), but if something special comes out I do need to talk about it :-) Have fun with your drum kit in a box!

[@jasonjayalap]

Is anyone surprised that Yamaha built a near perfect device, then put a microUSB port on it? EDIT: I faxed Yamaha Japan asking for a usb c port on the next model when it comes out in 7 years. Will report back.

[@eyesolatedrock]

😆

[@milaberdenisvanberlekom4615]

Yamaha being a G giving us a use for all the old microUSB cables we have lying around

[@ThaDru]

LOL classic! 😂🤣😂🤣

[@BrunodeSouzaLino]

It could've been worse. They could have put USB B instead. You know, *the printer cable.*

[@bassbassbasser]

Would be way better than the micro USB...

[@lemonhscott7667]

I can’t believe I’ve never had this channel recommended before! I love fingerdrumming and have been looking for good resources on here to learn and improve at it. Super stoked to watch your other videos

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Welcome! Make sure to also check out my free beginner courses on questforgroove.com If you're serious about learning. Over the years I moved more and more towards the step by step lessons over there instead of small snippet lessons on KZbin, so you might want to see if that approach works for you!

[@radwarriortv]

I purchased the FGDP-50 3 days ago and 11/10 impressed with it. Stock sounds are great and being able to alter each patch, amazing. This layout? So alien yet so natural and well, human. I love this thing and I'm going to have to watch those tutorial videos on finger drumming!

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Nice, welcome aboard! I don't have actual FGDP tutorials (yet) but since the core layout is basically the same my courses should work for you. They're mostly about how to play things well and make them groove, which is universal and not dependent on the type of controller you use 😀

[@radwarriortv]

@@TheQuestforGroove Regardless they're on my list! I see what you mean on the fact of it not being subjective to the controller rather the player. My finger drumming sounds like me playing actual drums haha which isn't pro or anything enjoyable, yet 🤣

[@DrivenCrane1]

How do you alter your pads?

[@TheQuestforGroove]

​@@DrivenCrane1 I can't explain that in a comment here, but Yamaha has this inline guide for the whole process. You do need to read it because it's not super intuitive. manual.yamaha.com/mi/de/fgdp50/en/index.html

[@Some_Cat_]

FDGP-50 + looper pedal = layers and layers of fun, fun, fun. Looking forward to it.

[@recycology5468]

Time to finally break out my EHX 95000!

[@pedrovitor5125]

🟨🟨 I hope that next updates came with USB-C, MIDI controller option and levels of sensibility. If it be came in next version, will be amazing.

[@Glennsh]

I'm in the UK and my FGDP50 turned up today! Thank you for this video i can't wait to start learning to finger drum to start getting the hang of it! Cheers

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Have fun!!

[@guyjackson1763]

I was wondering when this would come out. Thank you very much for your hard work - and for taking the trouble to wear a wonderful jumper, the pattern of which has nearly the same curvature as the second row of pads on the FGDP’s!

[@deanishere1154]

One of the best channels on KZbin! I always look forward to the next upload, thanks for uploading! I learned a lot from you.

[@JosephNoga]

Buying a Maschine standalone! Ghost notes are important. Thanks for keeping it real.

[@BeyondTyrants]

I've been finger drumming my whole life as a phenotype of ADHD so having an instrument built from the ground up to do just that is pretty awesome, especially with the built-in speaker and sounds. I love how much more I can get done with the computer but I hate how much more easy it is to get distracted or derailed by analysis paralysis. I'm somehow more creative with less options, and the FDGP 50 gives me that right out of the box, with the added functionality of being able to plug it into a computer later when the idea evolves into something more. And the big "space bar" style pads for the kick and snare work perfect for my style of finger drumming, which comes from banging on my desk in school as a kid. The traditional pad setup on every other controller is too small for how I naturally want to play. This is why I started looking at the Roland Handsonic, which I was just about to buy until I found the FDGP 50. I like all the extra bells and whistles of the Handsonic but they're not worth the extra $900. I'm going to use the FDGP 50 which also has hand drum kits for African, Egyptian, and Indian music and feed it into my Boss RC-505 loop station. They've got a Black Friday sale running for $60 off. At that price, I can't say no. It's also interesting that only the 50 is on sale. Not the 30. It makes me think Yamaha is going to leave the 30 behind and make the 50 the entry level model with a new and improved 70 coming next year or the year after. I think this series is going to be a dark horse game changer!

[@pedrovitor5125]

Good description. I hope that next updates came with USB-C, MIDI controller option and levels of sensibility. If it be came in next version, will be amazing.

[@free2muse]

The Sweetwater demos are pretty convincing along with your last groove here, yet we can always trust your years of experience for final comparisons of such instruments. I also appreciate that they’re out of the box playable and think they might be at the very least a good tool to have on hand for practicing and or laying down a groove in your head.

[@BentRim]

Came across your review and wanted to comment that i enjoy your presentation style. I'm looking at this as a gift for my daughter who is not a drummer, but has an interest and while searching I learned of finger drumming. I think this might be a good place to start. Portable and Self Contained are two great positives in my book.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Thank you! And yes, 1 month later I can still say I'm enjoying the ease of use a lot. I have played more than over the rest of 2023

[@sosmooth7]

WOW! This is just the demo video that I've been waiting for. You really took your time to explain many things about this product. Now I'm ready to go out and buy one. I would say that the sounds you demoed are just what I need. I don't need any thing diverse.

[@henriquenicolau]

excellent video! there are some interesting features on these. Like the note repeater along with aftertouch.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Yes it can also do pitch control with aftertouch. I have to admit I haven't gotten around to using both those features, but I did see they were available.

[@henriquenicolau]

@@TheQuestforGroove yes! I saw some of the yamaha guest artists using it while performing. It gives it a nice edge to it specially on DnB or HipHop.

[@louismaiden8360]

He's back! Very happy to see more content man.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Haha, thanks. I was honestly not super keen on doing more gear reviews but these devices are something special so I had to get back in the game for them :-) I'm still actively making more stuff on my website by the way, I'm not gone!!!

[@SteveinJersey1234]

Superb video, Rob! I've been following your Discord thread on the new Yamaha products, but you did an extremely comprehensive overview here, addressing basically every remaining question I had.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Ah yes great to hear! That was my goal, so happy it helped!

[@paulmalikov2777]

Thanks

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Thanks Paul!!

Yoo man! Thanks for the video, enjoyed a lot.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Anytime. I'm working on some new FGDP lesson videos for 2025 just fyi.

[@ZeekBurse]

This is dope!! Gotta love Finger drumming! Thanks for sharing this!

[@KM-px8cs]

Believe it or not I've been playing real drums for YEARS and the Moeller technique never made much sense to me when explained ,nor felt ergonomic at all - YET - the way you just explained it was so conscise and accurate (even though it was even the focus of the conversation) that I tried it on the table right here and it worked for the first time...! Thank you for inadvertantly helping me unlike a technique that can be amazing when applied properly!

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Hey thanks, wow, no idea that a gear review video could unlock all of that for you. Great!

[@OrangeDynamo]

Thank you for this review! I’ve been eyeing the Yamaha and had been on the fence about preordering, but with your co-sign then I’ll pull the trigger on the purchase. Thank you!

[@joshnova9163]

Superb video. Your enthusiasm is contagious

[@pastor_dannykim9153]

I'm glad I found your channel. I purchased FGDP 50, but it was very difficult to get used to it, and the video helped a lot. I very much agree with the content. What puzzled me at first was the pad sensitivity, which did not respond sensitively to soft touches. I play drum tones on the keyboard rather than on the launchpad. I think it can be used appropriately by changing the pad arrangement and modifying the velocity curve and AD gain. However, I think it will take a lot of time to get used to this pad arrangement. In particular, if I had purchased the FGPD30, I would have regretted it greatly. I hope you continue to make many useful videos in the future. Thank you.

[@JaeH0202]

Where did you purchase FGDP 50? Currently in US, all the major online/offline shop had backorder on FGPD50, so I had no choice but only 30.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Netherlands :-) It looks like these things are very successful and Yamaha's gotta ramp up production.

[@pastor_dannykim9153]

@@JaeH0202 In South Korea, funding was provided in limited quantities last month (November). All prepared quantities were sold out in one day.

[@JaeH0202]

@@pastor_dannykim9153 세계적으로 재고가 없나보네요.. 일본 직구도 $600으로 팔고 있어서 미국에선 그냥 30으로 구입했습니다.. 감사합니다 목사님

[@YeahBan]

Thank you for the kind words. I'm a beginner in finger drumming, and I plan to continue practicing to enhance my skills for future projects. I'm currently contemplating between the AKAI MPC Studio 2, NI Maschine Micro MK3, and FGDP-30 models. Among these models, which one do you recommend? I prioritize enjoying the drumming experience and maximizing efficiency in my work rather than having a flashy display.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

It's a personal decision. I would pick either the FGDP or the Maschine mikro. If you want the best, most sensitive pads get the Mikro. If you want portability and quickly being able to play, get the FGDP.

[@YeahBan]

@@TheQuestforGroove Thank you👍

[@montasrey]

Hello, I am not sure I understood very well, is it just an example or what you just said in 5:53 is actually true about the fgdp being waterproof?

[@TheQuestforGroove]

No the FGDP is not waterproof. I just gave some examples. In this case the one you could spill beer on was the Keith Mc Millen QuNeo, which I believe is now discontinued. I did not like the responsiveness of the pads and did not care that much about being able to spill beer on it :-) I do like their BopPad controller though.

[@luis_bildhauser]

got myself one. so far very refreshing! Looking forward for all the shenanigans one can do with it. Thanks for the in depth vid!

[@apsyd]

Where did you get it from ?

[@luis_bildhauser]

@@apsyd good question! I was in luck checking thomanns webpage at the right moment when they had a small batch in stock. The FGDPs are hard to find currently!

[@paulussantosociwidjaja4781]

Since I lost my Roland R70, never finger drumming again. But, this Yamaha FGDP is quite interesting if it has functions such as: rolls, repeat, after touch, positional pad, etc. Thank you for sharing your playing style.

[@JimmyNuisance]

Addictive Drums 2 is still my favorite drum plugin. It just sounds great and will always sound great.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Agreed! I have also become very familiar with the interface so I can basically make any. sound I want.

[@jordambee]

What makes it better than superior drummer or logic pro drumsets? I am new to this

[@rodolfoferreira]

Hi, great review!! 👏 I purchased one FGDP50 last year but I only received it here in Brazil last month, and was really disappointed with the pad sensitivity as you mentioned, but today I had an ideia to improve it and it really worked a lot for my unit!!! I turned OFF AFTERTOUCH for all pads except cymbals that I want to choke and it improved the sensitivity a lot!!! I then DECREASED the gain for snare and hihat pads to around 36 and assigned curve splice 23 to them and heavy 2 to the rest of the pads to have more range of volume. I am so happy now with the FGDP50 that regret that I purchased one Maschine Mikro because of that. Let me know if it works for your unit too…

[@TheQuestforGroove]

I noticed you can change a lot of settings, and some of them will give an improvement if they make the pads respond better to your playing style. However, I have not found a way to make the "soft touches" trigger better. That just does not seem to be possible.

[@sternenherz]

​@@TheQuestforGroove I love the layout of the FGDP-50 because of the possibility of playing rolls with one hand on the long pads. I thought that IF it's good enough (velocity curve), then i might replace my Roland HPD20 with it, because i rarely use the internal sounds of the Roland HPD20, and just use it to trigger realistic drums inside my DAW. But now, I just tested the FGDP-50 myself. You are SO right. The soft touches barely trigger. It's even worse than i expected. Unplayable/unusable for me. Gonna send it back tomorrow :D

[@KM-px8cs]

Your videos are actually super useful 💯

[@Kingxeyesore]

I've been thinking about getting the -50 to try and this video did it. The pad layout and varied size are so very interesting to me but the endorsement did it. Thank you. Oh and a solution I found to the micro usb issue is that I just stopped throwing out any usb cables at all . There is a scary medusa box in the closet that I turn to lol

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Great! I hope you'll get a lot of mileage out of this unit. I'm still playing it almost every day.

[@SuleymanBillor]

You should upload more of FGDP 50@@TheQuestforGroove , great video btw greetings from İstanbul I have one too

[@hermestrismegistus3417]

Thanks for the video review. Im about to pull the trigger on one of these. Ive always had positive experiences with Yamaha's audio gear.

Thanks for the review. It Saved me al lot of time and money. I will take a look to your classes

[@pinchopaxtonsgreatestminds9591]

I have ordered the FGDP 30. I have a lot of Drum machines, and an Octopad. But this is handy to sit in the living room.

[@andyjm7122]

Thanks for making this, it helps a lot in trying to decide where to start my finger drumming journey!

[@MANVSScienceCAPE]

I love my Korg pad control for finger drumming. Been using it for the last ten years. Best pads you can find. Better than any Mpc I’ve ever used. It’s not a stand alone drum kit but not hard to hook up a laptop for simple functionality.

[@ichibandude]

This is ALMOST my dream practice device and I pre-ordered it (but still haven't received it yet...). I wish it had regular 4x4 pads, or extra pads like 5x6 layout. Maybe I should build one.

[@alexspineanu]

I use an xjam to play together with my 3yo kid, but the laptop is a bit distracting. this could be a good use case for a standalone device

[@SkeveNelis]

i heard a lot of your jams this introjam is so f... awesome

[@ziggy_shpakovsky]

thumbs up before start watching! ps I was waiting for this video from the announcement

[@carlupthegrove262]

I just got mine (FGSP50) yesterday. Your demo video is great. Thank you. I'd like to see some instrutional videos shows HOW TO... ...thanks for you work on this

[@0e0]

I was thinking about you when i saw this product video. glad you did a review on it. I think your launchpad x layout is pretty special

[@E_-_-]

Thanks for all the great info here on your channel.

[@anthonyglaser929]

thanks for posting this video, very educational.

[@MikeErickson]

Wow, I'm so glad I found this video, I came for the yamaha finger drummer review but now I'm sub'd to quest for groove!

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Nice! Welcome aboard Mike!

[@GloomRng]

Well! i had to accept reality and take down my electric drumkit for space, this seems like a great compromise , looks really fun , will have to check out your site

[@swonic]

This is the video I've been waiting for. Thanks.

[@gasperbarone]

Yes was waiting for this video

[@towerrunner4675]

Wow, the pad guru is back! I bought the Synido TempoPad two month ago, no need for this one. I have to have the 4x4 layout, otherwise I'm confused on my DAW 🙃. CoffeBeats made a nice FGDP-30 demo. He even answered to the menu voice. 😄

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Synido tempo pad, does it have nice pads? I can't buy it here in the Netherlands somehow.

[@towerrunner4675]

@@TheQuestforGroove I did your standard test on the TempoPad: finger falls onto a pad - no active force. That doesn't trigger it. The needed trigger force is comparable with a keyboard without hammer action. This is good enough for my skills. The knobs are endless, but have mechanical steps - not perfect, but also OK for me. One can use both MIDI outputs at the same time (USB and DIN-over-TRS). So with a two-channel MIDI setup, two devices can be connected. I bought from Amazon Germany (import from Amazon US). I had a bad MPD218 before. After the firmware update (see Akai page), it was dead (no USB connection). Maybe it works for you.

[@tuananh8310]

Can you make a video introducing the functions in the setup menu of fgdp 30 and fgdp 50?

[@peterrams7367]

Why the heck Yamaha did not include a looper with storable looping? I have the 50 and it's great and fun! But with a included looper I could use it as a drum computer...

[@TheQuestforGroove]

So true. I'm hoping for an improved "pro" version in a year or two!

[@rikkasummer2784]

fgdp 50 or maschine mikro mk3? only these 2 available at my country....almost same price, which one?

[@Syncopator]

A critical feature I need for these is to provide the ability to MIDI record and playback a performance without a DAW. I see the FGDP-50 seems to have transport controls, but since no reviewer has mentioned stand-alone recording capability I have to assume it doesn't have it and those are just for DAW control or USB stick audio file playback.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

It does send out midi and receive it via usb. I've played some midi from my computer into the fgdp and it produced a drum part. Other way around obviously also worked. The question is what type of other devices can you hook up... so far I only managed to get it to work on my computer. I don't have any real hardware synths though so no idea...

[@jamman6]

Excellent video, thank you.

[@weisland2807]

Such a CATCHY name!! FGDP.

[@JoseVGavila]

I got an FGDP-50 a couple days ago. I already have two (don't ask me why!) Maschine Mk3 and a Maschine Mikro Mk3, but have not yet got to use them (BTW, all were bought used and in like new condition). My idea is to setup a keyboard (MODX+/MONTAGE) along a finger drum system and a Boss RC-600. The problem with the Maschine is that it requires a PC (except for the Maschine+, which I don't have). So, for practical reasons, the immediacy of the FGDP-50 is great. Also, due to its size, it could fit over the MODX+ 6 (better than on the MONTAGE 6). So I am excited to get into finger drumming with this instrument and hope, once it begins to click, to get into more advanced things with the Maschine. I will get back in some months to share my experience!

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Yes please share, I'm curious!

[@midinotes]

The main advantage of the 50 over the 30 I would say is the ability to use your own samples on the pads. You can even create layered samples if you have the patience. Both in the UK are very reasonably priced, the 50 is still sold out so I think that says it all!

[@starpause]

This is the thing I'm most interested in. I want to recreate a portable hang drum or similar digital tuned percussion device. I've got the patience since I just want to get this one thing done... maybe the 50 is for me! Would love to see a more detailed video on how to do the layered samples.

[@Attby7303]

Companies that makes products like these should reach out to you and hire you as a consultant. Great content 👏

[@domovoi_0]

wow! Thanks! Love and blessings!

[@youtubevideos415]

Cool. Thank you so much for making this video.

[@BCThunderthud]

Adding to the chorus of folks saying they've been waiting for your review. I don't need this thing myself but since I saw the first announcements I've been looking forward to your opinion.

[@zbsfm]

yay! i've been waiting for this one

[@noizwav]

Not sure it's for me, but nice to see Yamaha putting out something new in this realm.

[@seanp2k617]

I need them to do a DM3-Rack next as an update to the TF-Rack. 32 inputs + Dante in 2U with built-in wifi control and a useable small touchscreen + some key knobs on the front for under $2k please.

[@mrrafsk]

Would love to see an te ep-133 ko2 review for finger drumming pls.

[@dudfaz]

Great review! Yamaha should hire you to demo these.

[@yukikoishiharao4885]

I was waiting for your QFG review since September, when I first saw this thing. As always, your review answered all my top questions that were not covered in the Yamaha overview videos. If sensitivity is similar to Maschine Mini, that can be my show-stopper. My gears stay put but FGDP50's portability/instant play is a nice addition and perfect for sing-along parties, prayer meetings and casual busking.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Yes very much recommended. There is enough to play and to practice on this thing!

[@boothbuster]

Would you say that the Roland hand percussion one is much better in terms of sensitivity (maybe due to larger surface areas as well)? I always wanted to try that one but it's expensive and I am not that much of a drummer but always curious on ways to add more humanization to rhythms. I really like the price of these though... was disappointed to hear that the minimum sensitivity isn't that great. Any feedback is appreciated!

[@Sn00ze]

Finally, the review!

[@TheQuestforGroove]

I had to take some time to test it out, then record a bunch of demos and then also make sure I tell the story right, since this is such a special new device that quickly discussing the pad sensitivity just wasn't enough. I'm glad it's finally done!

[@Sn00ze]

@@TheQuestforGroove Thank you for your hard work, it was well worth it for such an extensive review! Approaching this not as a finger drummer but just a beginner drummer, I can say for me as long as the pads are "good enough", these devices look really interesting as they offer an opportunity to jam and practice (to some degree) while away from the instrument. It would have been interesting to see a footswitch input for the bass drum, but maybe that would be considered cheating in the finger drumming world! Anyway, thanks again for your review, I think I'm going to go with the FGDP-50!

[@SamVecchio]

Nice video. Just ordered the 50. Arrives tomorrow. Any plans for some tutorials on techniques using the Yamaha FGDP?!

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Yeah I might do that. In all honesty most of the stuff you need in order to play this thing well I already have course about. On a 4x4 controller, that's true, but as I say in the video the difference between that and an FGSP is not that big so learning the basics can already be done on questforgroove.com

[@ayyappanmusic]

Such a great video from the master! Have you checked out the Roland Handsonic HPD-20? It is by far the best unit I have ever used (next to the Ableton Push)! Incredibly sensitive, can hook up to hi hat and kick pedals, great in-built sounds

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Hey it's still on my list but it keeps falling through the cracks because it costs a pretty penny and if I like it I cannot really use it in my courses since it's so very different. But I am curious. There's gonna be a time with money and extra spare time and then I'm gonna try it out. Even if it's just for myself.

[@patrikknoerr9777]

My true happiness is induced by a rack full of obsolete romplers. Kids these days! Soundwise it does not disappoint, but the UI design is not from my timeline.

[@hamerpalhares]

Very useful video. Best on the subject, by far. I’ve received my fgdp50 a week ago. I’m having some trouble going to bed, as I can’t stop playing this thing. Is there anyway I can download sound from addictive drums or any other software inside fgdp50? Thanks for your time.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Hey that's not possible. You need to use the onboard sounds and otherwise it's simply using it as a midi controller and hooking it up to your computer.

[@mrokor]

OOOOhh you play REALY well!!!

[@vomithaus1]

The sensitivity demo was very helpfull. It's really hard to guess what people mean by 'very sensitive ' etc. 😊

[@AmelioMedardo]

Complimenti ma il sound che si ascolta nel video sono kit che si trovano già nella yamaha? Cioè dono della macchina il sound?

[@mandolinic]

I received the -30 as a Christmas present from myself to myself. As a purely amateur musician, I couldn't justify spending over £300 for the -50. When I first tried the device, I found the kick drum pad less sensitive than the others, and using my thumb was a somewhat hit and miss (pun intended) affair. I found setting the trigger (option 36) to Loud 2 helped a lot but did nothing about minimum level of sensitivity. I was a bit disappointed and wondered about returning it for a refund. But now it's a week later and it seems much less of a problem so I guess I'm getting used to it and I'm subconsciously compensating. There's always the possibility of Yamaha making a software update to the add more trigger options to make the pads more sensitive for those who need it. IIRC, trigger options can be applied either across the entire keyboard (?) or to individual pads. BTW, I've never done any type of drumming before, so the grooves you're playing seem pretty amazing to me.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Thanks! I hope you have a lot of fun with this device despite its shortcomings. Pad sensitivity is a bitch for all finger drummers. A rabbit hole that never ends 😀Just know that if you feel like it's "decent" that already means you're doing pretty well and there's much worse units out there!

[@hillblocksview]

Awesome review, would love to see a follow up, I've been on the fence with this device but it seems like the most logical choice for finger drumming 🤔

[@TheQuestforGroove]

I can tell you I still play it every day. Simply because it's laying on the couch and it's easy to quickly play for 5 minutes without any hassle or turning on my computer or stuff like that.

[@davidmcdo]

I was so excited when I first saw these, but the sounds in the machine gun triggering on the internal roles. Maybe the next version will be better

[@mungewell]

On the '-30' limitations... If you think of the cost of manufacture, perhaps these make sense. The screen and the extra memory for more samples aren't free. On the other hand there's a USB socket, so there should be an app for configuring the device....

[@midinotes]

There's definitely a lot of configurability on the 50, though checking out the manual for the 30 shows there's a lot you can tweak as well. The UX is very intuitive although an app definitely would save time on the 50 adding your own user samples and configuring your own pad setups (there's a lot of settings you can adjust).

[@DespairQuietlyPlease]

I have a Roland HPD 20 mainly for percussion...I wonder how this compares in terms of authenticity and velocity sensitivity for latin percussion sounds?

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Hey I haven't tested the Roland so a comparison is hard to make. My guess is the Roland has better response. I've heard some other students mention it and they were all very happy with it.

[@gerimayawhyte154]

Is this a good match for looping? I have the hand Sonic 10 which I currently use, but something with a smaller footprint might be a little fun and practical.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

There is no built in looping function but you can obviously use it with a looper in many ways.

[@petrgabaj4958]

Hi! I wonder if you get all the internal sounds saved on some media like USB flash to store them in the comp and use FGDP only as a controller...? Thank you for the review.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

No the internal sounds stay in the device. You could painstakingly sample them all ofcourse, but you cannot just download them off of there. The device can be used as a midi controller to control any software instrument on a computer though. Like I do in the video with Addictive drums.

[@vj-nikkolax8008]

When I work with different sample packs in Maschine all samples are in different tune, how can I tune all of them and find the scale, can you make a video about that?

[@namenaim1560]

Great funky fingers. Subd. Thanks

[@mechatecha8514]

just wondering if i should pick up a fdgp-30 or a ESI Xjam for my first beatpad (fdgp so i can mess around and experiment more, ESI for a more baseline experience.)

[@TheQuestforGroove]

The FGDP can help you to play every day, because of it's standalone capabilities. My guess is that if you want to mess around and jam a lot, you want the FGDP. If you want to for example go through my courses and learn the basics step by step, there is also a case to be made for the xjam.

[@mechatecha8514]

@@TheQuestforGroove also is the difference between the 30 and 50 worth the extra £100 I'll have to spend or not? I might be able to get both if not.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

@@mechatecha8514 I cannot say because it's personal. The last section of the video basically says that if you think you will not need a screen and you're fine with 2 presets and just jamming, the 30 is enough. Otherwise you want the 50, which is a sneaky move by yamaha because a screen is not that expensive, but it is inconvenient for most people when it's not there.

[@mechatecha8514]

@@TheQuestforGroove I decided to get the 50

[@caseyrocksohard]

Do you have a video that talks about a pad controller with DIN midi? Or TRS midi even. I want to find the right unit for my Elektron Analog Rytm (worthless pads)

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Ah I'm not an expert at that at all. I only use usb and digital (software) instruments I'm afraid :-(

[@sternenherz]

Is it possible to switch between different Midi-Note-Configurations in a quick way on the FGDP 50? Because when using Battery4 and then switching to another Drum-VST, i need to be able to quickly switch all Pads to sending other Midi Notes. Is that possible?

[@TheQuestforGroove]

You can make presets and with those you can instantly change midi notes.

[@Streck0_909]

Totally agree with everything you said, Rob. I've had the FGDP-50 for about a month now, hoping it could replace my Machine Mini MKIII. After a few days of fiddling around, it became clear that the responsiveness of the pads is what it is: decent, but not great. Then again, I would say the same about the Machine Mini, because as well as it responds to light touches, I found it way too easy to max out at 127 (=full velocity). Maybe that's because I've played the piano for too long, but I really had to force myself to hold back when playing energetic rock drum parts - which feels exactly as stupid as the sentence reads. The FGDP-50 performs a lot better on that end of the spectrum, but unfortunately it has the opposite problem for light touches. Another thing that I found mildly disappointing is the lackluster MIDI/USB integration of the FGDP-50. While it's good that it is class compliant, so that you don't need any drivers or extra software, it's annoying that there _is_ no software that would allow you to set up custom pad layouts, midi maps, or kits made out of your own samples. Everything has to be done on the device, using the very 90s looking screen. I really hope that Yamaha will eventually put out something like the Native Instruments Controller Editor. I also hope that a firm ware update will provide the option to disable the internal sound engine when connected to USB. At the moment, this has to be done manually - either properly in the menu or by turning down the volume to zero.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Hey 100% agree with this as well. I was surprised there was no editor software! It might come later when enough people bought these things.

[@dmsdrumcovers9506]

Thanks for the great review. I've gotten pretty good at playing rock/metal drums on the MPD218. I use your layout. I don't practice enough these days, because I have so many songs to practice, it takes up so much time. I need to follow your 10 min plan more often. I haven't been able to play out because I'm tied to my computer for the sounds I like using Superior Drums 3 and Logic. I have trouble doing fast rock rolls with the toms at the top, with single tom pads. I may give the FDGP-30 a shot. Anything that makes it more available would up my practice time, and maybe even gigging. I only need one good set of rock drum set sounds. Thanks for your awesome instruction. I'm able to do this thanks to you.

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Thanks! Yeah for sure give this a shot and let me know if it worked for you!

[@MarcoRElena]

Can the white one record onboard? Maybe with quantization?

[@TheQuestforGroove]

No to both answers. No onboard recording, no quantization.

[@Nagrom-xl7wj]

Hi, when I'm tilting the device front and back or left and right it feels like there's a part inside that slightly moves and that make a mild clicking sound. Can someone here would be able to check on their own device? It has to be tilted a few times, Thank you

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Yeah its a little loose on the inside. Can confirm. You don't have a bad unit!

[@Nagrom-xl7wj]

@@TheQuestforGroove thank you, it's appreciated. And thanks for your work also! Have a great weekend

[@ricardolima4570]

Hello good afternoon, I know that the korg Nanopad2 is not among those recommended for the fingerdrum modality, but it is the equipment I have, so what is the best distribution of the pads with the drums and cymbals for this 8x2 format, placing them to be played in a vertical position? ?

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Hey, this is my favorite 2x4 vertical layout! questforgroove.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/2x4.png

[@ricardolima4570]

@@TheQuestforGroove So, in my case it's 2 x 8 with the Korg Nanopad2, what would it be like?

[@TheQuestforGroove]

@@ricardolima4570 I don't know to be honest. I'd say you get this basix 2x4 layout as your main kit and can put any sounds you like on the other 8 pads. You can do two 2x2 blocks above and below for triggering anything you want for example. There is no solution that is as efficient as a 4x4, it will always be a compromise.

[@ricardolima4570]

@@TheQuestforGroove Thank you!

[@phosphore7991]

The review i was waiting for! Brb after the video and a cup of tea^^ Edit: aha i have smiled at the evil marketing.

[@davidlynch4338]

Great video! I am still on the fence though. I'm looking for something to take with me on a 3 year bicycle tour that I will start in March. I already plan to take the Synthstrom Deluge with me and was thinking about adding an XJam to play drums more intuitively. When the FGDPs came out I got pretty excited that my wife could play drums along with my guitar while we travel without any setup issues. She, like most people can't imagine getting out a sampler, pad and speaker just to jam around the campfire... The Deluge is a super powerful sampler/sequencer/drum machine and offers many variable parameters (LFO controlled Filter, Velocity, pitch etc...) to allow for a very life like drum sound, but there would be cables... 3 batteries and set up time to consider. Would you say the FGDP is a better choice because of the stand alone qualities? I will also be using whatever drum pad/sampler/synth for recording on the go for the next 3 years, so sound quality limitations are also a factor for me. Primarily, I focus on Indian Classical Music as well as some psych rock, folk and prog. What do you think? Is the FGDP good enough that it will keep up with my long term music needs as well as being a super immediate "campfire instrument" for my wife and friends, or should I stick with getting the Xjam and deal with the cables, batteries and set up time that combination will require? Thanks!

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Oh man that's a hard decision to make for me. I would personally bring the FGDP along if I went for a long bike trip, but that's my personal preference. I don't think anyone but you can decide which option is best.

[@davidlynch4338]

@@TheQuestforGroove Thanks for the reply! I really want to include my wife and other people we meet along the way in jamming and general music playing. How would you compare the pad sensitivity of the FGDP to the Xjam? I watched your video on the Xjam as well and it was really insightful. I would say that the majority of the the time I will be the one doing the finger drumming, mainly building short loops for playing indian music, but I really like the idea of the FGDP being an immediate instrument for others to play along. Thanks for you advice!

[@TheQuestforGroove]

Thanks! The Xjam pad sensivity is a little better. How much? Hard to say... If the Xjam is a 10-10, the FGDP is an 8-10... Something like that?

[@davidlynch4338]

@@TheQuestforGroove Thanks for your feedback, I really appreciate it. Still on the fence but maybe leaning towards the Xjam a little... The FDGP looks really interesting but I think it will bug me if the pads aren't as good as possible. It is a little hard for me to try one in person because they are out of stock and I live pretty far from any music stores, but maybe I should be patient and see of I can get one to try. Cheers man! Thanks for the great videos and amazing playing.