HXW PD705 Percussion Sample Multipad Review: Who It Fits and Who Should Skip It
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This hxw pd705 percussion sample multipad review covers a portable 9-pad controller designed for drummers who need flexibility. The unit features dual-zone velocity sensitive pads, allowing for nuanced dynamics across its surface. It is built for musicians who travel often, weighing just 6.61 pounds. The device includes 512MB of internal memory to store your own samples. You get 592 preset sounds to start playing immediately. This multipad serves as a versatile addition to any studio or stage setup. It connects easily to amplifiers and digital audio workstations. The design prioritizes practical connectivity and sound customization.
What stands out
- 9 dual-zone velocity sensitive pads for dynamic control
- 592 built-in sounds across 30 preset kits
- 512MB internal memory with 128MB Flash-ROM for user samples
- MIDI In/Out and USB-B ports for DAW integration
- Expandable trigger inputs for additional pads or footswitches
Who it fits
Good fit for
This multipad suits drummers who need a compact secondary kit for rehearsals or live gigs. You will appreciate the dual-zone pads if you play complex rhythms. The 592 sounds and 30 preset kits help you find tones quickly without external software. The 512MB memory lets you load your own samples via USB. Musicians using DAWs will value the MIDI and USB connectivity. The expandable trigger inputs allow you to add more pads later. It fits well in DJ booths or keyboard rigs where space is limited.
Who should skip it
You should look elsewhere if you need a complete acoustic drum replacement. This unit lacks a kick pedal and hi-hat foot control in the base package. You must purchase separate footswitches for full foot operation. If you require a large playing surface, the 12-inch width may feel small. Users needing extensive onboard effects beyond reverb, limiter, and equalizer will find the options limited. It is not a standalone drum kit but a sample controller. Those wanting a full acoustic feel should consider a complete electronic drum set.
Verdict: The HXW PD705 is a practical, portable multipad for drummers who need expandable sampling and MIDI control. It fits well as a supplement to existing setups rather than a primary drum kit.
Key specs explained
9 dual-zone velocity sensitive pads
This means each of the nine pads detects where you strike it and how hard you hit. You can play distinct sounds on the center versus the edge of a single pad. Velocity sensitivity ensures your dynamics translate to volume changes. This setup is ideal for drummers who need expressive control without a full acoustic kit. It offers more nuance than single-zone pads found in basic beginner sets.
30 preset kits, 20 user kits
The unit comes with thirty pre-loaded drum kits covering various genres like rock and classic styles. You can also save twenty of your own custom kits. This flexibility allows you to switch between different musical contexts quickly during practice or performance. It suits musicians who play in multiple genres or need specific sounds for recording sessions without relying on external software libraries.
512MB (128MB Flash-ROM) internal memory
This storage capacity allows you to load your own original drum samples via a USB stick. The 128MB portion is dedicated to this user data, while the total 512MB supports the system and presets. It enables customization beyond the factory sounds. You can create unique kits for your band or studio work. This feature is valuable for producers who require specific acoustic textures not included in standard electronic drum packages.
TRIG1/2, TRIG3/4, FS1, FS2 trigger inputs
These inputs allow you to expand the system by connecting additional dual-zone pads or footswitch pedals. You can add hi-hat or kick pedal controls for a more realistic playing experience. This modularity lets you grow your setup over time. It is useful for drummers who start with a compact pad but plan to build a larger electronic kit later. It offers scalability that fixed-unit kits often lack.
Design and build specs
According to the listing, the HXW PD705 measures 14.3 inches in length, 12 inches in width, and 3 inches in height. The unit weighs 6.61 pounds. This compact footprint and light mass make it easy to transport. You can carry it to rehearsals or gigs without needing heavy equipment cases. The black finish is straightforward and functional, showing no decorative elements. It is built for practical use rather than visual flair.
The layout centers on nine dual-zone velocity sensitive pads. Each pad detects both strike location and force. This design lets you trigger different sounds on the center versus the edge of the same surface. The control section includes inputs for expansion. TRIG1/2 and TRIG3/4 ports allow you to add extra dual-zone triggering pads. FS1 and FS2 inputs support footswitch pedals for hi-hat or kick control. These inputs mean you can grow the kit as your needs change.
Connectivity options are integrated into the chassis. The unit features 5-pin Midi In and Out ports, a USB-B port, 1/4-inch stereo outputs, a headphone jack, and a 1/8-inch stereo AUX input. These ports let you connect to amplifiers, DAW software, or other gear. The design prioritizes utility. You get a portable, expandable controller that fits into existing setups without taking up much space.
Setup and Everyday Use
The HXW PD705 is designed for straightforward integration into your existing music workflow. Its compact dimensions and light weight mean you can place it on a desk or mount it on a stand without requiring extensive space. You can connect it directly to an amplifier for immediate acoustic output, or link it to your computer via the USB-B port to use it as a MIDI controller for DAW software.
For daily practice and recording, the unit offers versatile connectivity. You have 1/4-inch stereo outputs for main audio, a headphone jack for silent practice, and a 1/8-inch AUX input for playing along with external audio sources. The inclusion of 5-pin MIDI In and Out ports allows you to sync it with other hardware gear, expanding its utility beyond a standalone pad.
You can expand the kit by connecting additional dual-zone triggering pads to the TRIG1/2 and TRIG3/4 inputs. Foot control is supported via FS1 and FS2 inputs, which accommodate the PDL-HH191 footswitch pedal for hi-hat or kick control. This modular approach lets you build a setup that matches your specific needs.
In terms of sound management, you can record sequences directly on the unit using its built-in function. The internal memory holds 512MB, including 128MB of Flash-ROM for loading your own samples via USB. You can also adjust your tone using the built-in equalizer, limiter, and reverb effects, allowing you to tailor the sound for studio recording or live performance without needing external processors.
Before You Buy This Pad
Before you buy the HXW PD705, consider how it fits into your current gear. You will likely need a stand or a sturdy table, as the listing does not include a mounting bracket. Check your amplifier or audio interface for the required 1/4-inch stereo outputs to ensure proper sound routing. If you plan to use it with digital audio workstations, verify that your computer supports USB-B connections for MIDI data transfer. The unit includes 128MB of flash-ROM for loading samples via a USB stick, so keep an external drive handy for custom kits. Regularly clean the pad surfaces with a dry cloth to maintain responsiveness. This multipad serves as a versatile expansion tool rather than a standalone electronic drum set. It complements acoustic kits or other electronic setups well. Ensure your workflow can accommodate its 30 preset kits and 20 user slots. It is ideal for drummers who need portable percussion options alongside their primary kit.
Check before you buy
- Verify your amp has 1/4-inch stereo outputs
- Check computer compatibility with USB-B MIDI
- Ensure you have a USB stick for samples
- Plan for a stand or mounting surface
- Confirm space for its 14.3-inch footprint
The product at a glance
HXW PD705 9-Pad Percussion Multipad
Best for: portable practice and MIDI integration
- Pad Count
- 9 pads
- Pad Type
- Velocity-sensitive
- Trigger Inputs
- 8 inputs
- Built-in Sounds
- 592 sounds
- Preset Kits
- 30 kits
- Internal Memory
- 512MB
View on Amazon: HXW PD705 9-Pad Percussion Multipad Affiliate link
The HXW PD705 is a 9-pad percussion multipad with dual-zone velocity sensitivity. It holds 592 sounds across 30 preset and 20 user kits. The unit includes 512MB of internal memory for sample storage. You can connect it to amplifiers, DAWs, or external pads via MIDI and TRIG inputs. It is built for drummers needing a portable, sound-rich practice or performance tool.
Pros
- 9 dual-zone velocity sensitive pads
- 592 built-in percussion sounds
- Expandable via TRIG and FS inputs
- 512MB internal memory for samples
- MIDI and USB connectivity for DAWs
Cons
- No built-in speakers for standalone playback
- Requires external amplifier or headphones
- Limited to 512MB internal storage
Good fit if
- You need a portable practice pad for band rehearsals
- You want to expand your drum setup with extra triggers
- You require MIDI control for software music creation
Skip if
- You want a complete drum kit with cymbals and kick pedal
- You need a self-contained unit with built-in speakers
- You prefer acoustic drum sounds over electronic samples
Verdict: HXW PD705 9-Pad Multipad fits drummers who need a versatile, expandable electronic pad for practice or studio use, especially those integrating it with DAWs or larger setups.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | HXW PD705 9-Pad Percussion Multipad |
|---|---|
| Pad Count | 9 pads |
| Pad Type | Velocity-sensitive |
| Trigger Inputs | 8 inputs |
| Built-in Sounds | 592 sounds |
| Preset Kits | 30 kits |
| Internal Memory | 512MB |
| Connectivity | USB-B, MIDI In/Out, AUX |
| Target Audience | Drummers |
| Color | Black |
| Dimensions | 14.3 × 12 × 3 inches |
| Weight | 6.61 pounds |
| Size | PD705 Pad |
| Model | PD705 |
Frequently asked questions
What is the physical size of the HXW PD705 multipad?
The HXW PD705 measures 14.3 inches in length, 12 inches in width, and 3 inches in height. This compact footprint allows you to place it on a desk or mount it on a standard drum stand. The dimensions make it suitable for tight spaces without sacrificing pad count.
How heavy is the HXW PD705 percussion pad?
The unit weighs 6.61 pounds. This light mass makes it easy to transport for practice sessions or studio work. You can carry it in a standard bag or move it between locations without significant effort, ensuring it remains portable for traveling musicians.
Who is the HXW PD705 best suited for?
It fits drummers who need a versatile, expandable electronic pad for practice or studio use. It is especially useful for those integrating the pad with digital audio workstations or larger drum setups. The design supports musicians seeking flexibility in their electronic drumming workflow.
What color is the HXW PD705 multipad?
The HXW PD705 is available in black. This neutral color allows it to blend easily into most studio environments or home practice setups. The finish is consistent with standard electronic percussion equipment, providing a professional appearance that matches other black gear.
Can the HXW PD705 be used with computer software?
Yes, the HXW PD705 is designed for MIDI integration. It connects to digital audio workstations, allowing you to trigger samples or virtual instruments. This feature makes it a practical tool for producers and drummers who need to record electronic percussion tracks directly into their software.
Does the HXW PD705 include a mounting bracket?
The listing does not mention an included mounting bracket. You will likely need to purchase a separate stand or use a sturdy table to position the pad. This allows you to customize the height and angle to suit your playing style and ergonomic needs.