Roland has announced the V-Drums 7 Series, the newest addition to its renowned V-Drums lineup. This latest series represents a significant advancement in electronic drumming, featuring a redesigned sound module, next-generation pads, and expanded creative tools. At the core of the series is the V71 module, which includes a multi-sampled sound library developed in partnership with Drum Workshop (DW). The module allows users to browse and download new sound content via Wi-Fi and the Roland Cloud Connect app. Three configurations—VAD716, TD716, and TD713—offer different options, all equipped with the V71 module and Roland’s latest digital and analog pads. Each purchase includes a six-month subscription to Roland Cloud Ultimate, providing access to DW Soundworks and other exclusive content.
For years, V-Drums have been favored by top professional drummers. Butch Vig, known for his work with Nirvana, Smashing Pumpkins, and Garbage, has long used V-Drums on stage and in the studio. He, along with Abe Cunningham of Deftones, recently collaborated on a recording project with the V-Drums 7 Series at Dave Grohl’s Studio 606. Vig noted that the new kits feature impressive ambiance, particularly the legacy kits, which reminded him of Sound City, where Nirvana’s Nevermind was produced.
The V71 module stands as Roland’s most advanced V-Drums sound engine to date. While retaining its signature hands-on workflow, the V71 has been fully overhauled, offering enhanced DSP and expanded waveform memory. It boasts a vivid color display, tactile controls, and an ergonomic layout that improve operation. The module’s drum library has been created from scratch, featuring instruments recorded at 32-bit/192 kHz in professional studios worldwide. Several sessions were held at DW’s studio in Oxnard, California, contributing to a collection of premium sounds.
The V71 module utilizes multi-layer sample playback and round-robin randomization for a natural, dynamic sound, eliminating the “machine-gun” effect that sometimes occurs with electronic drums. Roland’s behavior modeling further refines the sound, delivering smooth transitions between different articulations and over 16,000 dynamic variations when used with Roland digital pads. Drummers can customize their sound with V-Edit tools, adjusting details like head types, tuning, snare wire tension, and microphone distance. Additionally, the module supports sample imports and comprehensive audio connectivity, making it a versatile tool for both live and studio environments.
The V-Drums 7 Series provides two key ways to play: through the V71’s expandable sound library or with DW Soundworks, a software instrument designed for computer-based drumming. DW Soundworks runs as a standalone application or DAW plug-in, featuring samples from various DW kits. Expansion packs are available via Roland Cloud, and many align with V-Drums Instrument Expansion titles, allowing users to seamlessly transition between hardware and software drumming.
The VAD716 kit brings the power of the 7 Series to a flagship V-Drums Acoustic Design setup, featuring real wood shells and chrome hardware that mirror the appearance of high-end acoustic drums. It includes the PD-14DSX snare, which advances digital pad technology, and Roland’s digital VH-14D hi-hat and CY-18DR ride pads for maximum playability. The new KD-22 kick pad features a full-depth wood shell and innovative drumhead-mounted sensor, enhancing stability and durability. The kit also includes two PDA100 rack toms, two PDA120 toms, and two PDA140F floor toms, along with two CY-16R-T V-Cymbals.
The VAD716 kit comes in a variety of finishes, including Pearl White gloss, Satin Walnut, and several transparent maple veneers like Gloss Cherry, Ebony, and Natural.
For drummers seeking a modern electronic kit, the TD716 and TD713 offer an alternative with the V71 module and Roland’s latest low-profile pads. Both kits feature the PD-14DSX snare, VH-14D hi-hat, and CY-18DR ride, along with the new KD-18-BK kick pad on the TD716, which combines acoustic aesthetics with a full-depth wood shell and a head-mounted sensor. The TD716 also includes a set of new PD-10X and PD-12X pads, along with two CY-16R-T V-Cymbals, all mounted on the MDS-STG2 stand.
The more compact TD713 kit offers the KD-12 kick pad, which provides a satisfying playing experience in a smaller footprint. This kit includes four PDX-100 tom pads, two CY-16R-T and CY-14R-T V-Cymbals, and is supported by the MDS-GND2 stand, making it an excellent choice for drummers looking for a streamlined electronic setup.
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