Simmons Introduces New SD500 Electronic Drum Kit

	Simmons SD500 5-piece Electronic Drum Kit.

Simmons, a designer and manufacturer of electronic drums, announces the newest addition to the growing Simmons family, the SD500 5-piece Electronic Drum Kit.

The company says the SD500 marks new territory as an affordable full-featured five-piece electronic drum kit available for under $500. Loaded with a host of professional features, this rugged, full-size, go-anywhere kit is ideal for rehearsals, recording, schools, houses of worship, and small to mid-sized club gigs.

The SD500 kit features a 9" dual-zone snare pad, three 8" tom pads, and kick drum with integrated pedal. Cymbal pads include a 10" hi-hat with pedal, a 12" ride, and a 10" crash with an ultra-real choke function. The kit is housed on a rugged, steel rack, with robust custom T-fittings, detachable stick rest, and skid-resistant rubber feet.

At the heart of the SD500 kit is the all-new SD500 drum module, which features a sleek new look with a 16-character backlit LCD screen and 64 voice polyphony. The SD500 comes loaded with 64MB of custom Simmons sounds, including more than 350 different sounds across 50 drum kits, and a 60-song internal memory.

The SD500 module also offers USB MIDI connectivity for easy tracking to DAW or sequencer software. An integrated 1/8" TRS input makes it easy to connect an MP3 player or other audio source for practicing to recorded tracks.

The SD500 kit features Simmons' exclusive V.A.R. Variable Attack Response technology, delivering the ultimate in playability and performance, with intelligent sample playback and unparalleled responsiveness to dynamics.

For acoustic drummers and drum students who need a low-volume kit for practice or rehearsal, the SD500 provides the sound and feel of a real playing experience. It's an ideal kit for schools or churches needing a full size, low-impact stage setup, or for small or mid-sized project studios where recording acoustic drums might not be an option.

"Most electronic drum sets in this price range don't offer a complete, full-size kit, which compromises the playing experience," remarked Jim Norman, Simmons product manager. "The SD500 is the first and only electronic kit that delivers a true drumming experience, along with professional features and an incredible range of sounds, all for under $500."

The SD500 is available now at all Guitar Center stores and online via musiciansfriend.com.