[3] With the extensibility of sample-sounds via Waveform Data Cartridge,[4] and the multiple voice-parameters[5] (including chromatic pitch and envelope[6][4]) controlled for each note,[7] Yamaha RX5 offered the ability to create relatively simple sample-based music tracks all in one device, as on the groove machines.
[6] The RX-5 has 24 built-in digitally sampled drum sounds and another 28 on the RX5 ROM cartridge that was included with every RX5.
Each pair has a fixed set of sounds at its disposal, for example 6 bass drum samples at the first two buttons.
The RX-5 also features: chromatic pitch to program the music tracks consists of melody-bass-chord parts as on the groove machines, pitch bend, accent and individual level control, envelope controls (consists of: attack, decay, decay2 and release), and sampling effects including reverse and damp (looping).
Three additional Waveform ROM Cartridges were made to suit various genres: WRC-02 "Jazz/Fusion," WRC-03 "Heavy Metal," and WRC-04 "Effects."