Xjam vs FGDP-50 dilemma

Finger Drumming Gear / Software / Setup
1

Hey everyone.

I’m curious to learn about the experiences of those who got the FGDP-50, and regretted it, and why?
I haven’t seen anyone regretting Xjam. Please also share if you have!

I’m asking this somewhat general question because I want to get a broad perspective of all kinds of users. All backgrounds, all proficiency levels, hobbyists, beginners, finger drummers, home beatmakers, producers, professional drummers, everyone.

Some context:
I’m not a professional musician, or producer. I have played several instruments, learning songs by listening and working on my skills through those songs.
And I’m very private when it comes to playing. I don’t enjoy playing for an audience or in someone’s presence.

For the past few years, I’ve been considering drumming. The only hands-on experience I’ve had was a few brief rounds with an e-drum kit. What I wanted was to understand the physical feel and the kinds of skills I’d be working on down the line. I’ve been playing with Melodics for a while and progressed to a good intermediate level, both in pad and drum lessons, using my Mac keyboard (RIP).
In the drum lessons, I’ve gone as far as also physically trying to ‘practice’ coordination with an imaginary drum set to develop limb independence (kick, hi-hat, hands) and coordination.

Realistically, it is highly unlikely that I will ever get a real drum set or e-drums (fully aware of the cons), mainly due to the space they take up, the inevitable noise, and costs.
For the last months, I’ve been digging all the information available online to decide between Xjam or FGDP-50. I’m fully aware of the pros and cons of each and what I would be losing by choosing one over the other.
One reason I cannot let go of FGDP as an option is that it seems to feel more like playing an instrument in terms of physical engagement and experience, compared to a pad.

So I’m assuming that exploring all sorts of its users and their needs and backgrounds might give me (and probably many others) a better understanding and potentially a decisive factor.

Would appreciate your input.

Cheers!

2

Hi

I had 2 4x4, one Maschine Mikro and one Nektar Aura, and one 8x8 Launchpad X, and one DGDP-50, maybe the first unit in Brazil, before it was launched in the USA.

The pads of the 4x4 and 8x8 are very good, especially the Nektar’s, but the hassle of the computer and VST was a nightmare and therefore I only kept the FGDP-50!!!

The FGDP50 doesn’t have the best pads, they lack sensitivity for very light hits, but I managed to configure it to be acceptable and very enjoyable to play. And one thing that I realized is that it is more sensible when using external VST, don’t ask me why, but is a fact. Maybe the internal sounds have very low volume samples when hit lightly, who knows. I tried all configurations possible and adjusted my technique to play as light as possible to the point that I am satisfied, but still anxious to have a new release with better pads and some other features.

I think the internal sounds are very good and can be tweaked and stacked using some creativity. It has internal effects, can record what you play along with backing tracks, have a metronome and some songs to playalong.

The best thing is to turn it on and play immediately!!! I plug my iPhone into the audio in or the USB port and play it anywhere, and this is the best thing to do in long flights!!!

I would not purchase the FGDP-30 at all, it is a nightmare to configure and have less 8 pads.

So, hope this helps…

Cheers!

2 Likes
3

I think Xjams are better for many reasons, but I prefer a two-pad setup. The TL;DR of the comparison is pad sensitivity. Here’s my analysis and comparison, if helpful.

-David

1 Like