Gear article

Yamaha CYAT-500 DTX Cymbal Arm and Clamp

The Yamaha CYAT-500 is a specialized drum hardware accessory designed for integrating additional cymbals into DTX-series electronic drum kits. It serves as a direct successor to the previous CYAT65 model, providing a reliable mounting solution via a rack-attachable clamp and straight cymbal arm.

Yamaha CYAT-500 DTX Cymbal Arm and Clamp
Yamaha CYAT-500 DTX Cymbal Arm and Clamp
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Overview

The Yamaha CYAT-500 is a straight cymbal arm and clamp assembly specifically engineered for use with electronic drum sets. It is primarily marketed as an expansion component for Yamaha's DTX range, allowing drummers to increase their kit's configuration by adding more crash, ride, or effect cymbals to the existing rack structure.

Design and Functionality

The unit consists of two main components: a robust clamp that secures to the standard tubing of a drum rack and a straight arm that holds the cymbal pad. The design focuses on ease of installation, allowing for quick adjustments to the height and angle of the cymbal. As a 'straight' arm, it provides a direct vertical profile, which is often preferred for maintaining a compact footprint within a crowded electronic drum setup.

Yamaha HS740A Hi Hat Stand
Yamaha HS740A Hi Hat Stand

Evolution from CYAT65

The CYAT-500 represents an update to the older CYAT65 model. While it maintains the core functionality of its predecessor, it is designated as the newer version for current DTX kit generations. This ensures compatibility with modern Yamaha rack systems while maintaining the brand's standards for hardware durability and stability.

Target Audience

This hardware is suited for owners of Yamaha DTX electronic drum kits who find their current cymbal count insufficient. Whether a player is looking to add a second crash or a dedicated splash pad, the CYAT-500 provides the necessary physical support without requiring an entirely separate floor-standing tripod.

Market Comparisons

Within the Yamaha ecosystem, the CYAT-500 sits alongside other high-quality hardware like the HS740A Hi-Hat stand. Compared to third-party alternatives such as the Pearl Mini Closed Hi-Hat Holder or offerings from Gibraltar, the CYAT-500 is specifically tailored for the diameter and aesthetics of Yamaha's proprietary electronic racks, ensuring a seamless fit that generic hardware may not always guarantee.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary purpose of the Yamaha CYAT-500?
The CYAT-500 is designed to allow drummers to add extra cymbals to a Yamaha DTX electronic drum rack. It provides both the mounting clamp and the arm needed to secure a cymbal pad in place.
Is the CYAT-500 a straight or boom arm?
This specific model features a straight cymbal arm design. It does not include a secondary tilter boom, making it ideal for vertical mounting in compact spaces.
Which previous model does the CYAT-500 replace?
The CYAT-500 is the newer version of the Yamaha CYAT65. It serves as the direct replacement for that legacy hardware component.
Can I use the CYAT-500 with acoustic drum kits?
While primarily designed for DTX electronic racks, the clamp may fit standard 1.5-inch diameter rack tubes used in some acoustic setups. However, it is optimized for the lighter weight of electronic cymbal pads.
How does the CYAT-500 attach to the drum kit?
The unit includes an integrated clamp that facilitates easy attachment to the horizontal or vertical pipes of a drum rack. It is designed for tool-less or simple adjustment during setup.
What is the typical price for the Yamaha CYAT-500?
The typical price range for this hardware component is approximately £48.00. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and regional availability.
Does the CYAT-500 include a cymbal pad?
No, the CYAT-500 is a hardware mounting solution only. The electronic cymbal pads themselves must be purchased separately.
Is this hardware compatible with non-Yamaha racks?
The CYAT-500 is designed for Yamaha DTX racks, which typically use standard industry diameters. It may work with other racks like those from Gibraltar, but official support is for Yamaha systems.
Why should I choose the CYAT-500 over a standard cymbal stand?
Using the CYAT-500 saves significant floor space compared to a tripod stand like the Tama HTS88W. It keeps the kit footprint small by utilizing the existing rack structure.
What finish does the CYAT-500 have?
Following Yamaha's standard drum hardware aesthetic, the CYAT-500 features a chrome-style finish on the arm with a durable black or silver clamp to match DTX racks.
Is the height of the cymbal arm adjustable?
Yes, the straight arm can be adjusted within the clamp to set the desired height for the cymbal. This allows for ergonomic positioning relative to the other pads in the kit.
Does this product require a drum key for adjustment?
Most Yamaha rack clamps use wing bolts for manual adjustment without tools. However, having a drum key, such as those from Tackle Instrument Supply or Gibraltar, is always recommended for general kit maintenance.