Roland has always been the top dog in the electronic drum kit world. The brand constantly innovates and brings out new high-end features that haven’t been seen before.
Well, they’ve done it again with their newest drum module to add to their flagship drum kit lines.
In this review, we’re going to look at the latest Roland VAD716 electronic drum kit. It’s a monster set with premium features, so we’ll dive into those features to see how they line up with what’s come previously.
This kit is mostly based on Roland’s current VAD706, but it has a few significant upgrades.
The main feature is the Roland V71 drum module, which is the brand’s latest and greatest creation. It’s packed with high-end features to make it feel like you’re playing one of the best kits available.
The set also comes with a PD-14DSX digital snare drum pad. It’s a new and improved snare pad compared to the standard PD-140DS digital snare pad.
Finally, the kit comes with an extra floor tom compared to the single floor tom that comes with the VAD706.
The main thing we need to look at is the new V71 drum module. Also found on the TD713 and the TD716 Roland purchased DW a few years back, so all of their newest products involve some sort of collaboration with DW acoustic kits.
With this module, you get access to DW Soundworks, which is a VST based mostly on recorded DW sets. With DW sets being some of the best-sounding instruments in the business, you get some top-quality sounds.
Roland has ensured that you get the best playability possible out of the kit, so it truly feels like a seamless experience when you play. The gap between acoustic drums and electronic drums keeps getting closer and closer.
The only big construction difference between this kit and the Roland VAD706 is the new and improved digital snare drum. It feels very similar, but the responsiveness is a bit better.
Something more noticeable and important is Roland’s new editor software. One of the most frustrating things to do is edit sounds using all of the controls on a drum module. It would be much easier to just download software on your computer, edit on the software, and then transfer that over to the module.
With the new V-Drums software editor, that’s exactly what you can do. It’s fantastic!
Finally, we should mention the physical design of the drum module. There is so much possibility due to all of the inputs and outputs on the back. That’s why this kit is primed for live or studio performances.
When you combine the digital snare, hi-hat, and ride cymbal pads with the V71 drum module, you get some of the best performance quality possible from an electronic drum set.
As we mentioned earlier, this kit comes incredibly close to feeling like an actual acoustic set, and it’s seriously impressive how Roland has managed to do that.
The rubber cymbals would be the one downside if you were to really think deeply about it, but we think they feel great.
Some other electronic brands have been pushing plastic and metal cymbals with their kits, but those honestly don’t feel as smooth to play.
The high price tag is the big elephant in the room with this set. Coming close to $10,000, this is one of the most expensive drum sets available. It’s only going to be a realistic option for drummers who are willing to spend that much, and most aren’t.
However, it’s worth noting that the price tag isn’t much different from the Roland VAD706, and this kit is a much better option. So, that’s one positive aspect to take with you!
Roland has done something incredible here by improving what is already a top-tier option with the VAD706.
The Roland VAD716 is arguably the top electronic drum set available at the moment. Whether you need something to practice or play on stage with, this kit can do everything. And it sounds amazing while doing it.
Founder of TheDrumNinja
I’m crazy about drums, it’s been my passion since I was 12 years old. I played in numerous bands going through different styles like Rock, Progressive, Pop & Jazz-Rock. After being featured in major music publications (Drumeo, Guitar Guitar, AudioIssues, MusicThinkTank) I started this website to share my knowledge and create a resource for drummers of all levels.
We specialize in helping drummers of all levels become rhythmic assassins and develop ninja-like skills, quickly. Our mission is to create the best resources for all musicians and build a community where you can learn and share everything related to your musical journey.
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