Yamaha has launched the EAD10 acoustic/electronic drum module which transforms acoustic drum kits into a powerful digital/electronic hybrid with sampled sounds and studio-quality digital effects.

The Yamaha EAD10 consists of an EAD Sensor and an EAD Module. The sensor is attached to the bass drum hoop and records the entire drum kit from this position. The bass drum itself activates a trigger in the EAD Sensor while the entire kit is picked up by the two integrated microphones. These signals are transmitted via two cables to the EAD Module where they can be processed with effects and monitored through headphones, a PA system or sent to a laptop or mobile device via USB.

The EAD Module also offers the option of extending and layering the acoustic drum sound with more than 750 built-in samples or up to 100 user sounds.

The module also has inputs for up to six triggers (external or pads).

The Yamaha EAD10 is currently shipping, with a recommended price of $639 (£556).

digitalDrummer will be putting the system through its paces soon.