Alesis manual Playing the DG8, Overview, HOW the Sounds are Organized

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Chapter 2: Playing the DG8

CHAPTER 2

PLAYING THE DG8

OVERVIEW

The DG8 contains a total of 88 sound programs in its internal memory. 60 of these are called Keyboard Programs and represent a selection of pianos and other keyboard instruments such as harpsichord, electric piano, clavinet, pipe and electric organs. In addition, popular electronic keyboard sounds such as traditional synthesizer and “pad” sounds, strings (orchestral or ensemble type), choir and vibes are included. For Splits – where the DG8 plays a sound on the lower range and another sound on the upper range of the keyboard – a selection of 28 popular Bass Programs are included for left hand accompaniment on the lower keyboard range.

Each of the DG8’s sound programs is a digital sample – an electronic recording of an audible sound – that is stored in the instrument’s memory. The DG8’s memory is a type of memory used in a wide variety of electronic instruments and computers called ROM (“Read-Only Memory”) which cannot be erased or altered.

Sound programs in the DG8 may be constructed of only one instrument or, as in the case of PAD, SYNTH or MULTI sounds (to name a few), a composite sound.

A composite sound is a sound that was constructed from one or more synthesizers and/or samplers. When playing one of these DG8 sounds, you may hear what appears to be several sounds mixed together. In this case, that’s exactly what we did. The resulting program in the DG8 is a rich and full sound, but only takes up a single location in memory.

HOW THE SOUNDS ARE ORGANIZED

The DG8 divides its sound memory into two categories, internal and external sounds. Internal sounds are accessed from the Keyboard Banks and the Bass Banks. External sounds are called Card Bank programs and are accessed from a sound card inserted in the back panel’s EXPANSION CARD slot.

Keyboard Banks

The DG8 has 60 Keyboard Programs in its internal memory. These 60 sounds are arranged into 15 Banks that correspond to the 15 rectangular buttons on the right side of the control panel.

Each Bank contains four variations of the sound that is printed on the button label.

For example, FM PIANO contains four well-known FM-type electronic piano sounds; PIPE ORGAN contains four variations of pipe organ ensembles usually associated with church or cathedral organs.

DG8 REFERENCE MANUAL

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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.
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