►► 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
@ReligionAndMaterialismDebunked5 ай бұрын
First. Shalom.
@buxycat4 ай бұрын
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.
@TheQuestforGroove4 ай бұрын
@@buxycat Ah yes cables... honestly never thought of that until now. I'll make a not of it. Thanks!
@buxycat4 ай бұрын
@@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?
@TheQuestforGroove4 ай бұрын
@@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!
@jasonjayalap6 ай бұрын
Is anyone surprised that Yamaha built a near perfect device, then put a microUSB port on it?
@eyesolatedrock3 ай бұрын
😆
@milaberdenisvanberlekom4615Ай бұрын
Yamaha being a G giving us a use for all the old microUSB cables we have lying around
@ThaDru28 күн бұрын
LOL classic! 😂🤣😂🤣
@BrunodeSouzaLino26 күн бұрын
It could've been worse. They could have put USB B instead. You know, *the printer cable.*
@bassbassbasser23 күн бұрын
Would be way better than the micro USB...
@BrandonMilner9 ай бұрын
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!
@AntonisAdelfidis_UnderGround10 ай бұрын
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!
@Some_Cat_9 ай бұрын
FDGP-50 + looper pedal = layers and layers of fun, fun, fun. Looking forward to it.
@lemonhscott76679 ай бұрын
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
@TheQuestforGroove9 ай бұрын
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 KZfaq, so you might want to see if that approach works for you!
@ArtParsegov9 ай бұрын
I waited for standalone solution for years, and now it's come! Thanks Yamaha!
@thquib10 ай бұрын
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!
@TheQuestforGroove10 ай бұрын
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!
@guyjackson176310 ай бұрын
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!
@free2muse10 ай бұрын
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.
@Glennsh9 ай бұрын
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
@TheQuestforGroove9 ай бұрын
Have fun!!
@sosmooth710 ай бұрын
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.
@SteveinJersey123410 ай бұрын
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.
@TheQuestforGroove10 ай бұрын
Ah yes great to hear! That was my goal, so happy it helped!
@louismaiden836010 ай бұрын
He's back! Very happy to see more content man.
@TheQuestforGroove10 ай бұрын
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!!!
@BentRim9 ай бұрын
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.
@TheQuestforGroove9 ай бұрын
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
@JimmyNuisance9 ай бұрын
Addictive Drums 2 is still my favorite drum plugin. It just sounds great and will always sound great.
@TheQuestforGroove9 ай бұрын
Agreed! I have also become very familiar with the interface so I can basically make any. sound I want.
@radwarriortv7 ай бұрын
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!
@TheQuestforGroove7 ай бұрын
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 😀
@radwarriortv7 ай бұрын
@@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 🤣
@DrivenCrane15 ай бұрын
How do you alter your pads?
@TheQuestforGroove5 ай бұрын
@@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
@rodolfoferreira3 ай бұрын
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…
@TheQuestforGroove3 ай бұрын
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.
@joshnova9163Ай бұрын
Superb video. Your enthusiasm is contagious
@JosephNoga5 ай бұрын
Buying a Maschine standalone! Ghost notes are important. Thanks for keeping it real.
@OrangeDynamo10 ай бұрын
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!
9 ай бұрын
Thanks for the review. It Saved me al lot of time and money. I will take a look to your classes
@andyjm71224 ай бұрын
Thanks for making this, it helps a lot in trying to decide where to start my finger drumming journey!
@deanishere11546 ай бұрын
One of the best channels on KZfaq! I always look forward to the next upload, thanks for uploading! I learned a lot from you.
@henriquenicolau14 күн бұрын
excellent video! there are some interesting features on these. Like the note repeater along with aftertouch.
@TheQuestforGroove14 күн бұрын
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.
@henriquenicolau13 күн бұрын
@@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.
@SkeveNelis2 ай бұрын
i heard a lot of your jams this introjam is so f... awesome
@buxycat4 ай бұрын
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.
@TheQuestforGroove4 ай бұрын
Makes a lot of sense!
@buxycat4 ай бұрын
@@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.
@buxycat4 ай бұрын
@@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.
@TheQuestforGroove4 ай бұрын
@@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!
@buxycat4 ай бұрын
@@TheQuestforGroove thanks Rob.
@MANVSScienceCAPE3 ай бұрын
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.
@E_-_-4 ай бұрын
Thanks for all the great info here on your channel.
@luis_bildhauser7 ай бұрын
got myself one. so far very refreshing! Looking forward for all the shenanigans one can do with it. Thanks for the in depth vid!
@apsyd6 ай бұрын
Where did you get it from ?
@luis_bildhauser6 ай бұрын
@@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!
@noizwav10 ай бұрын
Not sure it's for me, but nice to see Yamaha putting out something new in this realm.
@seanp2k61710 ай бұрын
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.
@0e010 ай бұрын
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
@pastor_dannykim91538 ай бұрын
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.
@JaeH02028 ай бұрын
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.
@TheQuestforGroove8 ай бұрын
Netherlands :-) It looks like these things are very successful and Yamaha's gotta ramp up production.
@pastor_dannykim91538 ай бұрын
@@JaeH0202 In South Korea, funding was provided in limited quantities last month (November). All prepared quantities were sold out in one day.
@JaeH02028 ай бұрын
@@pastor_dannykim9153 세계적으로 재고가 없나보네요.. 일본 직구도 $600으로 팔고 있어서 미국에선 그냥 30으로 구입했습니다.. 감사합니다 목사님
@swonic10 ай бұрын
This is the video I've been waiting for. Thanks.
@ZeekBurse9 ай бұрын
This is dope!! Gotta love Finger drumming! Thanks for sharing this!
@Attby73033 ай бұрын
Companies that makes products like these should reach out to you and hire you as a consultant. Great content 👏
@MikeErickson7 ай бұрын
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!
@TheQuestforGroove7 ай бұрын
Nice! Welcome aboard Mike!
@Sn00ze10 ай бұрын
Finally, the review!
@TheQuestforGroove10 ай бұрын
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!
@Sn00ze10 ай бұрын
@@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!
@patrikknoerr97779 ай бұрын
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.
@gasperbarone10 ай бұрын
Yes was waiting for this video
@youtubevideos41510 ай бұрын
Cool. Thank you so much for making this video.
@JoseVGavila18 күн бұрын
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!
@TheQuestforGroove17 күн бұрын
Yes please share, I'm curious!
@zbsfm10 ай бұрын
yay! i've been waiting for this one
@towerrunner467510 ай бұрын
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. 😄
@TheQuestforGroove10 ай бұрын
Synido tempo pad, does it have nice pads? I can't buy it here in the Netherlands somehow.
@towerrunner467510 ай бұрын
@@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.
@dudfaz10 ай бұрын
Great review! Yamaha should hire you to demo these.
@ichibandude10 ай бұрын
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.
@domovoi_010 ай бұрын
wow! Thanks! Love and blessings!
@ziggy_shpakovsky10 ай бұрын
thumbs up before start watching! ps I was waiting for this video from the announcement
@alexspineanu10 ай бұрын
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
@pinchopaxtonsgreatestminds95919 ай бұрын
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.
@Kingxeyesore8 ай бұрын
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
@TheQuestforGroove8 ай бұрын
Great! I hope you'll get a lot of mileage out of this unit. I'm still playing it almost every day.
@SuleymanBillor7 ай бұрын
You should upload more of FGDP 50@@TheQuestforGroove , great video btw greetings from İstanbul I have one too
@YeahBan8 ай бұрын
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.
@TheQuestforGroove8 ай бұрын
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.
@YeahBan8 ай бұрын
@@TheQuestforGroove Thank you👍
@ProckGnosis9 ай бұрын
Goed gedaan! Je hebt gelijk.
@midinotes10 ай бұрын
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!
@starpause9 ай бұрын
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.
@yukikoishiharao488510 ай бұрын
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.
@TheQuestforGroove10 ай бұрын
Yes very much recommended. There is enough to play and to practice on this thing!
@weisland28079 ай бұрын
Such a CATCHY name!! FGDP.
@BCThunderthud9 ай бұрын
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.
@carlupthegrove2629 ай бұрын
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
@mrokor5 ай бұрын
OOOOhh you play REALY well!!!
@vomithaus19 ай бұрын
The sensitivity demo was very helpfull. It's really hard to guess what people mean by 'very sensitive ' etc. 😊
@mrrafskАй бұрын
Would love to see an te ep-133 ko2 review for finger drumming pls.
@hillblocksview3 ай бұрын
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 🤔
@TheQuestforGroove3 ай бұрын
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.
@Syncopator9 ай бұрын
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.
@TheQuestforGroove9 ай бұрын
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...
@flylord712710 ай бұрын
Of course they release this after I spent a grand on a drum machine. And this fits my needs in just an eight of the price.
@TheQuestforGroove10 ай бұрын
Time to fire up that eBay account :-) :-)
@davidgoode74168 ай бұрын
Great review, thanks
@phosphore799110 ай бұрын
The review i was waiting for! Brb after the video and a cup of tea^^ Edit: aha i have smiled at the evil marketing.
@streck048610 ай бұрын
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.
@TheQuestforGroove10 ай бұрын
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.
@paradockz10 ай бұрын
I love this thing. I got the 30 about a week ago and I've barely put it down. Using it to practice chops and as a controller in loopy pro for FAC DrumKit and Koala. Absolutely loving it. Absolutely getting a 50 as well once they're in stock. The voice assistance requires...some patience and does not inspire me to make my own kits for my 2 memory slots LMAO. I was going to ask on reddit if you now feel like converting your finger drumming book to FGDP format now, before i even saw this video :"D This is my first foray into finger drumming btw!!
@TheQuestforGroove10 ай бұрын
Hey, I never wrote a book. That might be someone else. My video courses come with sheet music and certain diagrams that are instantly usable on the FGDP anyways so no need to change those. The layouts are also a lot alike so using the videos to get a general idea of what to do is also perfectly possible.
@namenaim15609 ай бұрын
Great funky fingers. Subd. Thanks
@WaterTimeLapse10 ай бұрын
10:30 modest selfknowledge
@TheQuestforGroove10 ай бұрын
:-)
@jonasrygaard10 ай бұрын
Thank you!
@dmsdrumcovers950610 ай бұрын
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.
@TheQuestforGroove10 ай бұрын
Thanks! Yeah for sure give this a shot and let me know if it worked for you!
@peterrams73674 ай бұрын
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...
@TheQuestforGroove4 ай бұрын
So true. I'm hoping for an improved "pro" version in a year or two!
@davidmcdo10 ай бұрын
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
@belutpuaka2 ай бұрын
Hello, can u give your opinion should i buy this FGDP-50 or just buy Machine Micro Mk3 ?
@ayyappanmusic10 ай бұрын
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
@TheQuestforGroove10 ай бұрын
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.
@mungewell10 ай бұрын
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....
@midinotes10 ай бұрын
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).
@mattg10947 ай бұрын
You are an awesome person! :D
@Dirnkus_Ginish9 ай бұрын
If they would have included midi then I'd have bought one in a heartbeat
@SamVecchio7 ай бұрын
Nice video. Just ordered the 50. Arrives tomorrow. Any plans for some tutorials on techniques using the Yamaha FGDP?!
@TheQuestforGroove7 ай бұрын
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
@ssstewart110 ай бұрын
Great video
@buraxmusic10 ай бұрын
I started with mpc 500 , than I bought mpd 218, learned basics from your videos and Melodics. Now I'm thinking to change my drumpad to Maschine MK3 mikro. For me Maschine drumpads are still unbeatable. I also tried others like mpc series, mpd series, novation, push etc. I think it's about finger position and playing technique. Btw I also say thanks to 'Brandon Murphy' and 'you' for the best finger position :) Am I possible customer of Yamaha? - No (thank you for objectively video) Happy to see new videos out here. Maybe you can record some cover videos ?
@TheQuestforGroove10 ай бұрын
Hey, the problem with cover videos is that they often get blocked because of music rights. So while they're a lot of fun, they can be a waste of time when they get blocked. Even if they don't get blocked now, they can get blocked a year from now for example so I decided to stay away from them. I do. put out playalong tracks on my website by the way. If you ever want to try that, send me an email I'll give you a free trial!
@petrgabaj4958Ай бұрын
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.
@TheQuestforGrooveАй бұрын
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.
@mandolinic7 ай бұрын
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.
@TheQuestforGroove7 ай бұрын
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!
@erikostlund703710 ай бұрын
Disclaimer: I haven't tried the device - these are just my impressions from the review. Great review! I somewhat agree on the evil mastermind thing but in order to be a true evil mastermind one has to get away with something without anyone noticing. The 30 strikes me as artificially crippled without the screen and the 50 is outrageously more expensive to get usable navigation. Just about everything has a screen these days - even devices that are given away for free - so the whole thing just leaves a sour taste. I also wish the device would have had best of class pads given that it's targeted for finger drummers. As it is the 50 finds itself in a weird spot where it's too pricey not to be flawless and I would rather just wait and pay more for a future 70 model that is.
@TheQuestforGroove10 ай бұрын
Yes, that's the right phrase: "Artificially crippled". A small lcd screen probably costs a few dollars more. It seems like a weird omission.
@markkilley26839 ай бұрын
I think they would be fun.
@EarleMonroe9 ай бұрын
12:35 has the vibe of “It’s Delacratic” from Three Feet High and Rising
@TheQuestforGroove9 ай бұрын
haha, yeah I can hear it! Fun song by the way.
@EarleMonroe9 ай бұрын
@@TheQuestforGroove It’s not quite a skit, kind of a beatbox idea half sketched out. But it’s such a groundbreaking album, and I’ve listened to it so much, that that silly beat is ingrained in my brain
@tuananh83107 ай бұрын
Can you make a video introducing the functions in the setup menu of fgdp 30 and fgdp 50?
@Video-Misc-ix6ew4 ай бұрын
Hi thanks for the video. I'm want to begin finger drumming. Should I buy FGDP or the "normal" pad controller? My purpose I just want to use it as a drum kit
@TheQuestforGroove4 ай бұрын
It's hard to say because it seems like a very personal choice. If you want to have a device that just turns on and drum sounds come out, the FGDP is the obvious choice. If you want bigger, more sensitive pads and/or if you want to do my finger drumming lessons online and you want to copy them 1:1, and you do not mind setting everything up and using your computer every time you want to play then a traditional pad controller like Maschine mikro will be better for you.
@caseyrocksohard19 күн бұрын
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)
@TheQuestforGroove17 күн бұрын
Ah I'm not an expert at that at all. I only use usb and digital (software) instruments I'm afraid :-(
@paulmalikov27774 ай бұрын
Thanks
@TheQuestforGroove4 ай бұрын
Thanks Paul!!
@MarcoRElena3 ай бұрын
Can the white one record onboard? Maybe with quantization?
@TheQuestforGroove3 ай бұрын
No to both answers. No onboard recording, no quantization.
@The-die-youve-created4 ай бұрын
Yup, the Yamaha is way cool! If i didn't already have a Circuit Tracks and Launchpad pro MK3, or if it had premium pads, I'd totally jump on it. This brings me to a question. What's your thoughts on the Circuit Tracks? I love mine. While it doesn't have a built-in speaker, built-ins tend to be shit.
@TheQuestforGroove4 ай бұрын
Ah yes I've tried the drum version of it but I felt the layout did not work for me. You could not use all the pads in a convenient way. Also, no nice acoustic sounds... more synthy if I remember correctly. It was years ago.
@The-die-youve-created4 ай бұрын
@TheQuestforGroove yeah, it is a synth at it's core. Though I've worked around that with samples and packets, it is still a work-around. I do see your point about thre lay out, too. They cut two 8x8 in half to accommodate the loop function. The pads are kind of small and though nicely responsive they are the same size as the Mini and I too wold rather Novation used the Pro/X pads.
@chabacano__Ай бұрын
hi bro! thanks for this great review!, could you please talk about UVI SOUL DRUMS plugin and a pad layout configuration for mpd218?
@TheQuestforGrooveАй бұрын
Hey I don't have a dedicated guide for this plugin, I don't really make those because there are so many. But... you can definitely set this up with your mpd218. Just sign up for my free beginner course and go to this lesson: questforgroove.com/course/beginnercourse/basic-setup/installation/ At 2:51 I tak about linking sounds to padsin two ways. This is a universal guide and it will always work with any pad controller software combo. At least one of the two options.
@chemeisterАй бұрын
Is the amen break drum kit as heard in the intro also available on the fgdp-30?
@TheQuestforGrooveАй бұрын
No it has 39 kits, a wide range of sounds but it does not have the Drum n Bass kit.
@chemeisterАй бұрын
@@TheQuestforGroove 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭 Guess I'm buying the 50 then. Thank you for replying and have a great day.
@joelowery999Ай бұрын
Love this video. What AD preset are you using for the drums?
@TheQuestforGrooveАй бұрын
Oh man, I don't know anymore... I use a lot of different kits, mostly the Addictive drums "Black Oyster, Fairfax 1, Funk" kits. And sometimes also the "Indie, Black Velvet and "Vintage Dry" kits. All great sounds.
@joelowery999Ай бұрын
@@TheQuestforGroove Thanks! I’ll try some of the presets out on Blue Oyster and the others. I’m thinking of gettin the Mikro 3 because I really want to be able to sequence my drums more naturally and you seem to be doing a good job using that. I also want a Launchpad pro but like you said the pads are tiny!
@99rpm10 ай бұрын
Thanks for the review Rob! I'm curious to try the the FGDP-50 as you can still have the toms on top. Do the pads on the top row feel and behave the same as the regular pads, I wonder? As far as Yamaha improving/iterating on this, I hope so but I'm somewhat skeptical considering the MULTI12 was launched in 2009 and still sold today as the exact same model/version as when it was launched (besides software updates). Let's see!
@TheQuestforGroove10 ай бұрын
Yeah all pads feel the same. The tom placement up top is still not ideal with the smaller pads though... So I can recommend also trying the Yamaha tom layout.
@philliamproject81137 ай бұрын
I couldn't get one here in Canada so got mine through Sweetwater Music in the USA. I can't seem to turn off the external speaker while recording and I can't make it playback in time and I'm an ex Pro drummer ROFL! Subbed mate!
@TheQuestforGroove7 ай бұрын
If you record through the usb port you can simply turn down the volume. If you record through the headphone jack, I think there is an option to turn the speaker off when a headphone jack is plugged in!
@philliamproject81137 ай бұрын
@@TheQuestforGroove I wondered about that I've only used it twice going up in a few to have an early morning tweak. Was curious if I could hear it in my DAW. New toys rofl, Thanks for your answer I subbed too ,you're a great musician all round! 👍
@DinoFancellu9 ай бұрын
It would be nice if it had a mode to remember what is played, automatically, so if you play something you like, you don't have to then set it to record and try again. For example remembering the last 10 minute window It doesn't seem to have that.