Is this what the Simmons SD2000 should have been?

Simmons has just released a new “top-tier performance kit for the advanced drummer”, the SD1200 mesh head electronic drum kit.

The new kit has everything that went into the relaunched flagship, the SD2000 – except the quirky hexagonal-form pads and cymbals.

Combined with more “conventional styling”, the SD1200 comes with the Simmons Signature Sound Library, an expansive 764-sound collection of the world's most coveted drum kits and snares.

The kit consists of a 12” dual-zone snare; two 8” and one 10” dual-zone toms, and a 6” kick drum. The cymbal offering includes a 12” two-zone crash cymbal and a 14” triple-zone (bell/bow/edge) ride cymbal with choke. A variable pedal controls the 12” dual-zone hi-hat.

The SD1200 sound module features a large, full-colour graphic LCD screen, dedicated faders, knobs and buttons for kit customisation and Bluetooth MIDI for wireless connectivity.

Users can load their own one-shot samples or loops via USB.

Like the SD2000, a companion app can be used to customise kits, record new samples, and practise with recorded tracks.

digitalDrummer is currently putting the kit through its paces and a review will be published soon.