Twelve is the magic number with the Yamaha DTX-Multi 12 (projected MSRP: $899.99). Yamaha really outdid itself this time, as the new electronic percussion pad sports a full dozen onboard pads, more than 1,200 voices, and a built-in sound module.

The DTX-Multi 12's myriad voices cover drums, percussion, and keyboard sounds, many of which were drawn from the Yamaha Motif synthesizer range. With just the internal sounds and 42 effects, you can create and store up to 200 custom setups. If the 1,200 included voices aren't up to par with your taste, load and store your own sounds in the unit; the DTX-Multi 12 includes 64 MB of memory. Play the unit as a standalone instrument, or work it into your existing acoustic setup.

Furthermore, the DTX-Multi 12 features up to 4 assignable voices per pad, 128 phrase patterns in a variety of styles, a click track function for live performances, MIDI recording and editing, sample playback, USB connectivity, and more. The unit comes with Steinberg Cubase AI 5 software for additional recording and audio editing options.

Expect the electronic percussion pad to be available in December of 2009. For more information, visit the official Yamaha Web site.