For musicians seeking an affordable entry into the world of electronic drums, repurposing a Guitar Hero Drum Kit as a MIDI controller presents an intriguing option. Traditional e-drum kits can be costly, often requiring separate trigger modules, pads, and pedals, quickly escalating the budget. Game console drum sets, like those from Guitar Hero or Rock Band, offer a potentially cheaper and more accessible alternative, often found in the $50-$120 range for used models. The core question then becomes: can these gaming peripherals effectively function as MIDI controllers for popular Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) such as Ableton Live or Max/MSP?
Several factors are paramount when considering this unconventional approach, mirroring the priorities of any drummer exploring e-drums. “Feel” is a crucial aspect. Many drummers dislike the hard, unforgiving plastic surfaces of some early electronic drum pads. A preference for softer, quieter pads with a more natural rebound is common. Kits like the Logitech drum set are visually appealing and suggest a potentially better feel compared to older Roland triggers, while the Ion drum kits are acknowledged as desirable but potentially pricier.
Latency is another critical concern. For real-time performance and recording, imperceptible latency is essential. A maximum latency of 2ms is generally considered acceptable for most drummers. The responsiveness of game console drum kits in a MIDI context needs careful evaluation to ensure a lag-free playing experience.
Expandability offers long-term flexibility. The ability to integrate custom trigger pads, cymbals, and hi-hat pedals is a significant advantage. Ideally, a chosen kit would feature a “brain” or module with standard 1/4 inch input jacks, allowing for seamless expansion with professional drum triggers and components in the future. This modularity protects the initial investment and allows for gradual upgrades.
Wireless connectivity is a desirable convenience. A wireless MIDI connection via Bluetooth or a USB dongle simplifies setup and reduces cable clutter. The Logitech kit, for instance, is known to include a USB dongle. Wireless Xbox controllers also utilize USB adapters, which might be compatible with Xbox-branded drum sets. However, latency concerns take precedence over wireless convenience; a wired connection is preferable if it guarantees minimal delay.
Portability is a practical consideration, especially for home studios or musicians with limited space. Game drum kits are generally more compact than acoustic or full-sized e-drum kits. Certain models, such as the Logitech kit, are designed to fold up for easier storage and transport.
Ultimately, while the Logitech drum kit seems promising based on these criteria, firsthand experiences from users who have successfully routed MIDI from Guitar Hero or Rock Band drum sets into DAWs on a Mac are invaluable. Hearing from those who have navigated the setup process and assessed the performance of these kits in a MIDI environment is the crucial next step before making a decision.
