Does anyone know about v-drums?

[Space Pickle]

Hi, I know there are some drummers here, so there's a chance this question may be answered. I'll register for a drum forum as well but figured I'd ask TB first.

For a variety of reasons, I am interested in getting an entry level set of v drums. I have a line on a used Yamaha DTX500 kit. Here are my questions:

1) Can I upgrade the triggers to mesh at some point? Does the brand matter (i.e. will Roland triggers work with the Yamaha module?)?

2) Is there a way to bypass the midi module, route the midi into my computer via USB or midi patchbay, and trigger drum sounds on my computer in the DAW? I have Logic 8 & Garage Band, and can likely get my hands on the BFD library.

I know v-drums can be a bit controversial here but suffice it to say my reasons for getting the kit are really good ones , I'd appreciate it if we could avoid a debate on the relative merits of electric vs. real drums.

 

[Frank Tuesday]

1. Pads are just piezo transducers. Most pads and modules use 1/4" phone plugs to connect. If you can connect one to another, you can use it.
2. You could get a [Invalid or Expired Link Removed] to convert the piezo signals to midi. If you like DIY, there are a variety of kits and Link Removed to do just that.

 

[MonetBass]

The Yamaha DTX500 kit is exactly what we bought our son when he was taking drum lessons. Here's the deal:
1. That kit comes with the base-level pads which are single-zone triggers. They can be upgraded to dual-zone and will work with the existing module.
2. The module has a MIDI out on it, so I would suggest just using that.
That Yamaha module has some really cool kits on it, so check those out before using a soft synth for kits.

 

[Space Pickle]

Thanks so much guys.