So, you’re checking out the Millenium MPS-850 E-Drum Set, huh? Curious if it’s worth your time?
Well, let me cut to the chase: this kit’s got a lot going for it, especially considering the price tag. Here are five big reasons why I believe it’s worth it.
5 Main Benefits Of Millenium MPS-850
1. Massive Sound Library and Custom Kits
First things first, this drum set comes loaded with a seriously huge sound library—we’re talking 550 voices. That’s a crazy amount of sounds at your fingertips.
Whether you’re into classic drum kits, electronic beats, or some wild, experimental stuff, this kit’s got you covered. And, with 30 preset kits and 20 user kits, you can jump right in with a pre-made setup or get creative and design your own.
Plus, there are 100 songs built in for you to jam along with, and you can even save up to 2 user songs. There’s just a ton to work with, and it keeps things interesting.
Have a look at the demo below.
2. Versatile Controls for Performance
When it comes to dialing in your performance, the MPS-850 doesn’t disappoint. The kit is equipped with 6 faders that let you control the volume of individual pads, the metronome, and even the songs you’re playing along to.
It’s a game-changer when you’re trying to get the perfect balance. And, with an equalizer per kit, you can tweak the tonal balance to suit your environment or personal taste. You’ve also got pitch, reverb, and compressor settings to further refine your sound.
Want a tighter snare or some spacious reverb on your cymbals? This kit’s got you covered.
3. Advanced Connectivity Options
One of the big perks of the Millenium MPS-850 is how well it connects with other gear. The set includes USB MIDI and MIDI In & Out ports, which makes it easy to hook up to your computer or any other MIDI-capable device.
This is a huge plus if you’re into recording or producing music at home. You can even import WAV samples directly into the module via the USB memory function, letting you add your own unique sounds to the mix.
Plus, there’s a variety of outputs: 2 x 6.3 mm Jack main outputs for your amp or PA, a 6.3 mm stereo jack headphone output for private practice, and a 3.5 mm stereo jack line input for jamming along with your favorite tracks.
4. Realistic Mesh Head Playability
Now, let’s talk about feel. The MPS-850 features mesh head pads for the snare and toms, which are a big deal if you’re looking for something that feels more like an acoustic drum kit.
Mesh heads provide better rebound and are generally more responsive than rubber pads. The set includes a 10″ two-zone mesh head snare pad, two 8″ two-zone mesh head tom pads, and two 10″ two-zone mesh head tom pads.
The dual-zone design means you can trigger different sounds depending on where you hit the pad, adding more expressiveness to your playing. And, of course, there’s the 8″ mesh head bass drum pad that’s sturdy enough to handle your hardest hits.
5. Comprehensive Cymbal Setup
The cymbals on the MPS-850 are another highlight. You get two 12″ two-zone crash cymbal pads with a stop function, allowing you to choke the cymbals just like you would on an acoustic set.
The 12″ three-zone ride cymbal pad is also top-notch, giving you distinct zones for the bell, bow, and edge, plus the ability to choke the sound. The 12″ hi-hat pad with a controller on a stand delivers a realistic playing experience, mimicking the feel of a traditional hi-hat.
These cymbals are responsive and dynamic, making them a joy to play whether you’re practicing at home or performing live.
Specs – Quick Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Voices | 550 |
| Preset Kits | 30 |
| User Kits | 20 |
| Songs | 100 (2 User Songs) |
| Recording | Quick Record |
| Metronome | Yes |
| Effects | Equalizer, Pitch, Reverb, Compressor |
| Faders | 6 (Volume control for individual pads, metronome, and songs) |
| Main Outputs | 2 x 6.3 mm Jack |
| Headphone Output | 1 x 6.3 mm Stereo Jack |
| Line Input | 1 x 3.5 mm Stereo Jack |
| Trigger Inputs | 2 x 6.3 mm Stereo Jack (occupied by crash and tom pads) |
| MIDI | USB MIDI, MIDI In & Out |
| WAV Sample Import | Yes |
| Required Floor Space | Approx. 140 x 80 cm |
| Snare Pad | 10″ Two-zone mesh head |
| Tom Pads | 2x 08″ Two-zone mesh head, 2x 10″ Two-zone mesh head |
| Bass Drum Pad | 08″ Mesh head |
| Crash Cymbals | 2x 12″ Two-zone with stop function |
| Ride Cymbal | 12″ Three-zone with stop function |
| Hi-Hat | 12″ Pad with controller on stand |
| Included Hardware | Drum rack, Hi-Hat machine, Foot machine, Power supply, Wiring, 1 Pair of sticks |
Potential Disadvantages
Now, as great as the MPS-850 is, it’s not without its downsides.
1. Complexity for Beginners:
There’s a lot to learn with this kit. If you’re new to electronic drums, the sheer number of features might be a bit overwhelming. The interface isn’t the most intuitive out there, so you’ll need to spend some time getting familiar with it.
2. Space Requirements:
The kit needs about 140 x 80 cm of floor space, so it’s not exactly compact. If you’re planning to set it up in a small room or apartment, make sure you have enough space to accommodate it comfortably.
3. Mesh Head Durability:
While mesh heads are great for feel, they tend to wear out faster than rubber pads, especially if you’re a hard hitter. You might find yourself replacing them sooner than you’d like.
My Rating
Here’s how I’d rate the Millenium MPS-850 E-Drum Set:
- Sound Library & Customization: 9/10
- Performance Controls: 8.5/10
- Connectivity Options: 9/10
- Playability: 8.5/10
- Value for Money: 9/10
Overall Rating: 8.8/10
The Millenium MPS-850 E-Drum Set is an excellent choice for drummers who want a feature-rich kit at a reasonable price. Whether you’re practicing, recording, or performing, this set delivers in all the right areas.
Must-read: 20 Fun Facts About Drums (Polish Article)
FAQ
1. Is the Millenium MPS-850 suitable for beginners?
The MPS-850 might be a bit overwhelming for total beginners due to its feature set. But if you’re up for learning, it’s a great long-term investment.
2. Can I connect the MPS-850 to my computer?
Definitely! The kit comes with USB MIDI and MIDI In & Out, so you can easily hook it up to your computer for recording or triggering virtual instruments.
3. Does the kit include everything I need to start playing?
Yes, it comes with all the hardware you need to start playing right out of the box, including sticks. Just add your own headphones or an amp.
4. How durable are the mesh heads?
Mesh heads provide a great feel, but they might wear out faster than rubber pads, especially if you’re a heavy hitter. Keep an eye on them and be ready to replace if needed.
5. Is it easy to customize the sounds and kits?
Yes, once you get the hang of the module, it’s pretty straightforward to customize kits and sounds. There’s a lot of flexibility built into this kit.
Final Thoughts
All in all, the Millenium MPS-850 E-Drum Set offers a lot of bang for your buck. It’s packed with features, customizable, and built with the needs of both beginners and advanced players in mind.
Sure, there’s a learning curve, but once you get past that, this kit really shines. If you’re on the hunt for an electronic drum set that offers versatility, durability, and great sound, the MPS-850 is definitely worth considering.
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