Alesis manual Hook IT UP, Setting UP the DG8 in a Home, Power, Sustain Pedal

Page 18

Chapter 1: Getting Started

SETTING UP THE DG8 IN A HOME

Placement of your DG8 in the room can have a great effect on its overall tonal balance. Placing the DG8 is like placing loudspeakers in a room – placing the unit right up against a wall will accentuate the bass and if the wall has thick draperies, they will also cut the treble producing a dark, boomy sound.

The most accurate sound is usually achieved when the DG8 is placed on an appropriate stand and positioned out and away from highly reflective or highly absorptive wall surfaces. But when the DG8 must be situated close to a wall, as in a home, here are some recommendations:

If the wall is hard and smooth (a “reflective” surface), try positioning the keyboard at least 6” away. Too close and the tweeter frequencies will bounce back at you and cause a blurred and “splashy” high frequency effect. Also in this position, the wall may give a “boomy” character to the lower octaves. This is called bass coupling where bass sounds get a boost from the nearby wall.

If the nearby wall is curtained or otherwise presents a highly absorptive environment, the DG8 should be positioned out at least 12”. As mentioned earlier, thick draperies will cut treble and the result will be a dark, muffled sound.

HOOK IT UP

POWER

Use the AC power cord (or equivalent) that is included with the DG8. Make sure that the unit is turned off before you plug the power cord into the rear panel receptacle and the wall outlet. The unit has a universal power supply that should work with local AC power in most countries. If in doubt, check with your power company before plugging it in. In the U.S., the DG8 must be plugged into a standard 117 VAC, 50 - 60 Hz outlet.

SUSTAIN PEDAL

Before powering on the DG8, plug the included sustain pedal into the SUSTAIN/SOST jack on the back panel.

THE DG8 AS A STAND-ALONE INSTRUMENT

After you’ve set up the DG8 and plugged it into an AC outlet, you can go right ahead and dig in. If you plan to play the DG8 by itself, skip ahead to the topic Turn It On and Play It on page 23.

If you plan to use the DG8 with other MIDI instruments and devices in a music system, use the examples on the next few pages to connect it to your rig.

DG8 REFERENCE MANUAL

19

 

 

Image 18
Contents Spring Page Your shipping carton should contain the following items Alesis Contact InformationContents Specifications Contents Midi FunctionsTroubleshooting Warranty IndexImportant Safety Instructions Safety Symbols Used in this ProductImportant Safety Instructions Important Safety Instructions Important Safety Instructions Important Safety Instructions Instructions to the User CE Declaration of Conformity Important Safety Instructions Introduction Typographic Conventions Unpack IT Getting StartedWhat YOU’LL Need SET IT UPAttaching the Music Stand Hook IT UP Setting UP the DG8 in a HomePower Sustain PedalDG8 in a Music System As a Slave Cable to the Midi in of the next device in the systemPlay Mode AutoDemos Turn IT on and Play ITHOW the Sounds are Organized Keyboard BanksCard Bank Single Mode HOW the Sounds are SelectedLayers Splits Split-with-LayerUsing the Controls Level ControlsTranspose Tune ButtonGraphic EQ Midi Channel FunctionHow the Basic Midi Channel Works on the DG8 Getting Started Playing the DG8 OverviewHOW the Sounds are Organized Bass Banks Using the Display and Sound Selection Buttons Using the Cursor and the and ArrowsHow Sound Programs are Named Other and Arrow Functions Single Mode Selecting Internal SoundsLayer Mode Playing the DG8 Playing the DG8 Split Mode Split-with-Layer Using the External Card Sounds Card Programs in Single ModeCard Programs in a Layer QCard Programs in a Split Playing the DG8 QCard Programs In a Split-with-Layer Create the SplitDG8 Sound Chart Group Name Primary Sound Labels LAYER/SPLIT Sound LabelsFront Panel Controls TuneTranspose Effects Graphic EQMidi Functions Channel MessagesController Name Midi Controller # 2 Local Control Pedals BackgroundSustain Sostenuto Soft PedalPedal Connections Playing the DG8 Audio Inputs and Outputs OutputsInputs Factory Defaults POWER-UP ResettingInitializing the DG8 Midi Functions Midi BasicsMidi Hardware Midi MessagesChannel Messages Voice Messages Midi Functions Controller # Function Data Range Channel Messages Mode Messages Midi and the DG8 Channel MessagesMidi Functions Program Changes Pedals Midi Program # Primary/Layer Bass Split ChannelGlossary Appendix a GlossaryControllers All Notes OffChannel ModeTroubleshooting Appendix B TroubleshootingJack Cleaning and Maintenance Appendix B Troubleshooting Specifications Midi Implementation ChartAppendix C Specifications Specifications Appendix D Warranty WarrantyObtaining Repair Service Refer ALL Servicing to AlesisAppendix D Warranty Index A Split As both Primary and Split soundSPLIT/OFF button 26, 39, 40 Splits

DG8 specifications

The Alesis DG8 is a cutting-edge electronic drum kit designed for both beginners and seasoned drummers looking for an affordable yet feature-rich option. This versatile kit caters to a wide range of musical styles and is perfect for practice, recording, or live performances.

One of the standout features of the Alesis DG8 is its dual-zone drum pads, which provide an enhanced playing experience. These pads are responsive to different striking techniques, allowing drummers to produce a variety of sounds from a single surface. The kit includes a 10-inch snare pad and 8-inch tom pads, offering a realistic feel comparable to acoustic drums.

The DG8 also comes equipped with a robust sound module that features over 400 high-quality drum and percussion sounds. With its extensive library, drummers can explore a range of styles, including rock, jazz, and electronic music. The sound module is user-friendly, featuring a clear LCD screen for easy navigation, and it includes several customizable preset kits for those who want to get started right away.

For added creativity, the DG8 includes built-in effects such as reverb and chorus, which can enhance the overall sound without the need for additional equipment. Additionally, the module supports MIDI connectivity, allowing users to connect the kit to their favorite digital audio workstation (DAW) for more advanced production capabilities.

Another notable characteristic of the Alesis DG8 is its compact and portable design, making it an ideal choice for drummers who may have limited space or need to transport their kit frequently. The durable hardware ensures stability while playing, and the adjustable rack allows for the perfect setup based on personal preference.

The kit also includes essential practice tools, such as a metronome and play-along tracks, which provide drummers with the resources needed to improve their timing and rhythm. Furthermore, the DG8 supports USB connectivity, enabling users to record and share their performances directly to computers and other devices.

In summary, the Alesis DG8 electronic drum kit combines quality, versatility, and portability, making it a fantastic option for drummers of all skill levels. With its advanced technologies, vast sound library, and user-friendly features, it offers a comprehensive drumming experience that is sure to inspire creativity and enhance playing skills.