Alesis DG8 manual Bass Banks

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Chapter 2: Playing the DG8

The Keyboard Bank buttons are used in conjunction with the ▲ and ▼ arrows to access the Keyboard Programs in each Bank:

•Press a Keyboard Bank button to select a Keyboard category. The name and label of a Keyboard Program from the selected Bank will appear in the PRIMARY SOUND segment of the display.

•Use the ▲ arrow on the right side of the display to scroll forward through the four Keyboard Programs in the Bank. If you continue to scroll forward with the ▲ arrow, when the last Program in the bank is reached, the display will “wrap” to the first Program.

•Use the ▼ arrow to scroll backward through the four Keyboard Programs in each Bank. If you continue to scroll backward with the ▼ arrow, when the first Program in the Bank is reached, the display will wrap to the last Program.

A Keyboard Program can be played by itself as single program, layered with another Keyboard Program or Card Program, or split with a Bass (or Card) Program. See the topics on Layers and Splits starting on page 36 for information on these Play Modes.

Bass Banks

Similar to the Keyboard Banks, the Bass Banks contain the main bass sound programs in the DG8’s internal memory. And, like the Keyboard Banks, each of the seven Bass Banks contains four Bass Programs. Each Bank represents a category of related bass sounds and the name of the category is printed on each button.

Note that the DG8’s internal Bass Programs are programmed without modulation – they will not respond to a mod pedal plugged into its back panel or to received MIDI modulation commands. Also, there is a minimal amount of Reverb and Chorus effects programmed into the Bass Programs.

The Bass Bank buttons are used in conjunction with the ▲ and ▼ arrows to access the Bass Programs in each Bank:

Press a Bass Bank button to select a Bass category. Bass Programs are always played as the Split sounds on the lower range of keys, and the selected Bass Program’s label will appear in the SPLIT segment of the display.

Use the ▲ and ▼ arrows to step forward or backward through the four Bass Programs in the Bank.

The Card Bank

You can take advantage of the DG8’s expandability by acquiring an Alesis QCard or other compatible PCMCIA Type I sound card. The QCard provides an additional library of 128 new sounds you can play on the DG8. Just be aware that the effects programmed into each card sound may act unpredictably.

The card’s sounds act just like the internal DG8 programs. You can use Card Programs for Primaries, Layers and Splits by pressing the CARD button instead of a Bank button when selecting a sound. The last card sound that was selected will load and its name and/or label will appear in the appropriate segment of the display. Use the ▲ and ▼ arrows to step forward or backward through the Card Programs in the Card Bank to select another program.

Card sounds can be combined with the DG8’s internal sounds or can be layered and/or split within the Card Bank. A complete tutorial on using Card Programs is provided in the section Using the External Card Sounds starting on page 40.

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DG8 REFERENCE MANUAL

 

 

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Contents Spring Page Alesis Contact Information Your shipping carton should contain the following itemsContents Warranty Index Contents Midi FunctionsTroubleshooting SpecificationsSafety Symbols Used in this Product Important Safety InstructionsImportant 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 SET IT UP Getting StartedWhat YOU’LL Need Unpack ITAttaching the Music Stand Sustain Pedal Setting UP the DG8 in a HomePower Hook IT UPDG8 in a Music System Cable to the Midi in of the next device in the system As a SlavePlay Mode Keyboard Banks Turn IT on and Play ITHOW the Sounds are Organized AutoDemosCard Bank HOW the Sounds are Selected Single ModeLayers Split-with-Layer SplitsLevel Controls Using the ControlsTune Button TransposeMidi Channel Function Graphic EQHow the Basic Midi Channel Works on the DG8 Getting Started Overview Playing the DG8HOW the Sounds are Organized Bass Banks Using the Cursor and the and Arrows Using the Display and Sound Selection ButtonsHow Sound Programs are Named Other and Arrow Functions Selecting Internal Sounds Single ModeLayer Mode Playing the DG8 Playing the DG8 Split Mode Split-with-Layer Card Programs in Single Mode Using the External Card SoundsCard Programs in a Layer QCard Programs in a Split Create the Split Playing the DG8 QCard Programs In a Split-with-LayerGroup Name Primary Sound Labels LAYER/SPLIT Sound Labels DG8 Sound ChartTune Front Panel ControlsTranspose Graphic EQ EffectsChannel Messages Midi FunctionsController Name Midi Controller # 2 Local Control Background PedalsSustain Soft Pedal SostenutoPedal Connections Playing the DG8 Outputs Audio Inputs and OutputsInputs POWER-UP Resetting Factory DefaultsInitializing the DG8 Midi Basics Midi FunctionsMidi Messages Midi HardwareChannel Messages Voice Messages Midi Functions Controller # Function Data Range Channel Messages Mode Messages Channel Messages Midi and the DG8Midi Functions Program Changes Midi Program # Primary/Layer Bass Split Channel PedalsAppendix a Glossary GlossaryMode All Notes OffChannel ControllersAppendix B Troubleshooting TroubleshootingJack Cleaning and Maintenance Appendix B Troubleshooting Midi Implementation Chart SpecificationsAppendix C Specifications Specifications Refer ALL Servicing to Alesis WarrantyObtaining Repair Service Appendix D WarrantyAppendix D Warranty A Split As both Primary and Split sound IndexSPLIT/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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