The Yamaha RX5: The Ultimate 80s Drum Machine

Launched in 1986 for $1195, the Yamaha RX5 Digital Rhythm Programmer was Yamaha’s flagship drum machine and possibly the ultimate in 80s drum machine technology. While it doesn’t have the classic status of Roland’s TR808 or TR909, the RX5 does deserve classic status due to its sound shaping features, great 80s drum sounds and sturdy build. In this video I look at some of the sound shaping features of the RX5, I explore what it sounds like and why I think it’s a classic! 01:00 Sound demo 02:50 Patten demo 04:23 Patten creation and editing 07:33 Sound editing in a patten 12:17 Editing pitch and envelopes 16:17 Conclusion 17:05 Demo song