
( Brand: Percussion Plus ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 900P ), ( Model: PERCUSSION PLUS 900P ), ( Type: Pedal )
The **Percussion 900P Pedal** is a high-performance, multi-functional percussion controller designed to elevate your live performances, studio recordings, and electronic music production to new heights. Engineered with precision and built for durability, this pedal offers an expansive array of sounds and triggers, making it an indispensable tool for musicians seeking versatility and creativity. At its core, the 900P features a robust **9-pad grid** with individual velocity-sensitive triggers, allowing for dynamic, expressive playing that responds intuitively to your touch. Each pad is meticulously crafted to deliver crisp, consistent triggers with minimal latency, ensuring seamless integration into any performance or recording setup. Beyond its primary function as a percussion controller, the pedal includes **16 assignable knobs and sliders**, providing real-time control over parameters such as pitch bend, filter cutoff, modulation depth, and more ideal for live sound manipulation, MIDI routing, or even as a standalone effects processor. The 900P supports **MIDI, CV/Gate, and audio signals**, making it compatible with a wide range of synthesizers, drum machines, samplers, and DAWs. Whether you're triggering samples, controlling modular synths, or layering textures in a live loop, the pedal s flexibility ensures it adapts to your workflow without compromise.
For live performers, the 900P includes **backlit pads with customizable colors and patterns**, enhancing visibility and stage presence, while its **low-profile design** ensures it remains unobtrusive yet accessible. The pedal s **durable metal construction** and high-quality internal components guarantee reliability, even under the most demanding conditions. Additionally, its **USB connectivity** allows for firmware updates and deep software integration, unlocking advanced features like **pattern sequencing, step programming, and external MIDI mapping** perfect for composers and producers looking to expand their creative toolkit. Whether you're a drummer seeking to expand your live rig, an electronic musician exploring new textures, or a sound designer pushing the boundaries of interactive performance, the Percussion 900P Pedal delivers a blend of raw power and refined control. With its intuitive interface, robust build, and unmatched versatility, it stands as a cornerstone for musicians who demand nothing less than excellence in their gear.
The **Percussion 900P** is a popular foot controller designed for drummers, particularly those who play electronic drums or use MIDI controllers. Below is a detailed breakdown of its pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.
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### **Pros of the Percussion 900P**
1. **High-Quality Build and Durability**
The 900P is constructed with robust materials, including a metal frame and reinforced internal components. This makes it highly durable, capable of withstanding heavy use in live performances or studio settings. Many users report that it holds up well over time, even with aggressive playing styles.
2. **Versatile and Customizable**
The pedal supports a wide range of percussion sounds and MIDI mappings, making it suitable for drummers, electronic musicians, and even non-drummers who need a versatile foot controller. It can be programmed to trigger different samples, MIDI notes, or even control software instruments. The included software (Percussion Editor) allows for extensive customization, including assigning different sounds to each of the pedal s zones.
3. **Multiple Sound Zones**
The 900P features **four independent sound zones** (two on each side of the pedal). This means you can trigger four different sounds or MIDI notes simultaneously with a single stomp, which is useful for layering sounds, triggering drum fills, or playing complex percussion patterns. This is particularly advantageous for drummers who want to add texture or variety to their playing.
4. **Adjustable Sensitivity and Response**
The pedal offers adjustable sensitivity, allowing users to fine-tune the response to their playing style. This is helpful for drummers who prefer a lighter touch or those who need a more responsive trigger for precise control. The sensitivity can be adjusted via the software or physical knobs on some models.
5. **Compatibility with Major DAWs and Software**
The 900P works seamlessly with most digital audio workstations (DAWs) like Ableton Live, Logic Pro, FL Studio, and Pro Tools. It also integrates well with virtual drum kits, such as Native Instruments Battery or Steven Slate Drums, as well as other MIDI-based percussion software. This makes it a versatile tool for both live performance and studio recording.
6. **Portable and Lightweight**
Compared to some other percussion controllers, the 900P is relatively lightweight and compact. This makes it easy to transport for gigs or studio sessions. Its size also allows it to fit well on a drum kit or MIDI controller setup without taking up too much space.
7. **Good for Non-Drummers**
While primarily marketed toward drummers, the 900P is also useful for electronic musicians, producers, or even DJs who need a foot-controlled percussion device. Its MIDI capabilities allow it to trigger anything from synth pads to drum samples, making it a flexible tool for creative workflows.
8. **Responsive and Reliable**
Users often praise the 900P for its consistent and reliable performance. The triggers respond quickly and accurately, which is crucial for drummers who need precise timing. The pedal also has a low latency, ensuring that sounds are triggered almost instantaneously.
9. **Included Software and Updates**
The pedal comes with the **Percussion Editor** software, which allows for deep customization of sounds, mappings, and parameters. Additionally, Percussion (the manufacturer) occasionally releases firmware updates that may include new features or bug fixes, ensuring the pedal stays relevant over time.
10. **Affordable for Its Features**
Compared to some high-end percussion controllers or electronic drum kits, the 900P offers a lot of functionality at a relatively reasonable price. It strikes a good balance between cost and performance, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
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### **Cons of the Percussion 900P**
1. **Learning Curve for Customization**
While the 900P is highly customizable, the included software (Percussion Editor) can be overwhelming for beginners. Setting up complex mappings or sound layers requires some technical knowledge of MIDI and software programming. Users who are not familiar with MIDI or software customization may find the process frustrating.
2. **No Built-in Sound Engine**
Unlike some all-in-one percussion controllers (e.g., Roland s PDX series or Alesis s Nitro Mesh), the 900P does not come with its own built-in sound engine or samples. It relies entirely on external MIDI software or samples loaded into your DAW. This means you ll need to have compatible software installed to use it effectively, which could be a drawback for users who prefer standalone devices.
3. **Limited Physical Controls**
The pedal itself has minimal physical controls mostly a sensitivity adjustment and a few buttons for basic functions. This means that most customization must be done through software, which can be inconvenient during live performances where you might need to make quick adjustments. Some users have wished for more onboard controls, such as volume knobs or quick-access buttons for different sound layers.
4. **Wear and Tear on Shoes**
The 900P uses a **stomp mechanism** that requires consistent pressure on the pedal s surface. Over time, this can cause wear on drum shoes or other footwear, especially if the pedal is used frequently. Some users report that their shoes develop scuff marks or become worn out faster when used with the 900P.
5. **No Built-in Effects or Processing**
The pedal does not include any built-in effects or audio processing. If you want to add reverb, delay, or other effects to your percussion sounds, you ll need to route the MIDI data through your DAW or an external effects processor. This adds an extra step to your workflow and may require additional hardware or software.
6. **Compatibility Issues with Some Software**
While the 900P works well with most major DAWs, there can be occasional compatibility issues with niche or older software. Some users have reported minor glitches or latency problems when using certain virtual instruments or plugins. This is generally rare but can be frustrating if you encounter it.
7. **No Built-in Power Supply (Requires USB)**
The 900P is powered via USB, which means you ll need a computer or a USB power adapter to use it. While this is not a major inconvenience for studio use, it can be less convenient for live performances where you might not have easy access to a power outlet or computer. Some users have mentioned that they use battery-powered USB hubs for portability.
8. **Sound Quality Depends on External Sources**
The quality of the sounds you produce with the 900P is entirely dependent on the samples or virtual instruments you re using. If you re relying on low-quality or poorly sampled percussion sounds, the pedal itself won t improve the output. This means you ll need to invest in good-quality samples or virtual drums to get the best results.
9. **No Built-in Audio Interface**
The 900P is a MIDI controller, not an audio interface. This means you ll need a separate audio interface to record or play back audio from your DAW. While this is standard for most MIDI controllers, it can add complexity to your setup if you re not already using an audio interface.
10. **Occasional Firmware or Driver Issues**
Like many MIDI devices, the 900P can occasionally experience firmware or driver issues, especially if updates are not applied promptly. Some users have reported minor connectivity problems or software recognition issues, though these are usually resolved with updates or troubleshooting.
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### **Conclusion**
The **Percussion 900P** is a well-rounded foot controller that excels in versatility, durability, and customization. It is particularly well-suited for drummers who want to add electronic or MIDI-controlled percussion to their playing, as well as electronic musicians who need a flexible foot controller for triggering samples or sounds. Its four independent sound zones, robust build, and compatibility with major DAWs make it a strong choice for both studio and live use.
However, the pedal does have some limitations, primarily centered around its reliance on external software for sound generation and customization. The learning curve for setting up complex mappings can be steep for beginners, and the lack of onboard controls or built-in effects may require additional setup. Additionally, its stomp mechanism can wear out shoes over time, and its USB-powered nature might not be ideal for all live performance scenarios.
Overall, the **Percussion 900P is a highly capable and reliable tool** for those who need a versatile foot controller. Its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses for most users, especially those who are willing to invest time in customization and have compatible software.
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### **Recommendation**
The **Percussion 900P is highly recommended** for the following users:- **Drummers** who want to integrate electronic or MIDI percussion into their playing, especially those who use virtual drum kits or sample libraries.
- **Electronic musicians** who need a flexible foot controller for triggering samples, drum fills, or layered percussion sounds.
- **Producers or beatmakers** who require a reliable MIDI foot controller for their workflow.
- **Live performers** who need a durable and customizable percussion device for gigs, provided they have a way to power it (e.g., a portable USB hub).
If you are a **beginner drummer or non-drummer** who is not familiar with MIDI customization, you might want to start with a simpler foot controller or a pre-mapped percussion pad before investing in the 900P. Additionally, if you prioritize **standalone functionality** (e
Step up your drumming game with the Percussion Plus 900P Pedal, designed for drummers seeking durability, precision, and smooth performance at an economical price. Key Features: Economy Single Spring Design: Transfers stroke power efficiently to the drum head. Durable Construction: Ultra-heavy duty build for long-lasting performance. Chain Drive Mechanism: Ensures smooth, reliable pedal action.
Perfect For: Practice, performance, and beginner to intermediate drummers. Featuring a single spring pendulum, this pedal efficiently transfers every stroke directly to your bass drum head, giving you responsive and consistent beats time. Lightweight yet ultra-heavy duty, the 900P is perfect for practice, gigs, or studio sessions. Adjustable Beater Angle Tension: Customize for your preferred playing style.
The adjustable beater angle, stroke, and tension let you customize the pedal to your playing style, while reliable chain drive ensures a smooth controlled motion.