Alesis DG8 manual Local Control

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Chapter 2: Playing the DG8

Page 2: Local Control

It is possible to use the DG8 as a MIDI controller in a MIDI system without playing its own internal or card sounds by turning Local Control off. In this situation, the DG8’s keyboard becomes a MIDI transmitter only and does not affect the voices.

This feature is particularly useful when playing the DG8 with a sequencer. The sequencer controls the DG8 while the DG8’s keyboard can be used to play another MIDI instrument. Just be sure that the sequencer (or any device controlling the DG8) is not “echoing” MIDI notes from the DG8’s keyboard back into the DG8 (unless that’s what you want to do).

When this display is shown, pressing the and arrows turns Local Control ON (the default setting: the keyboard plays the DG8 normally) or OFF (the DG8’s keyboard plays to MIDI OUT only).

Page 3: AUX Pedal Assignment

This page allows you to determine how the rear panel FOOT PEDAL AUX jack responds to a pedal input, either modulation – rotating speaker for the ELECTRIC ORGAN Bank – or volume control. This means that you can tell the DG8 that if a pedal is plugged into the AUX jack, it be either a modulation pedal or a volume control pedal.

When this display is shown, pressing the and arrows toggles between Modulation and Volume. The default setting is Volume.

Page 4: Keyboard Scaling

This function is a sensitivity control for the DG8’s velocity response. This function tells the DG8 how to respond to changes in how hard or how soft you play the keys.

When this page is displayed, you will have a choice of values between 00 and 99 with the default setting at 50. It’s harder to play loudly and easy to play softly when Keyboard Scaling is set to 00.

At the other extreme, a setting of 99 makes it very easy to play loudly and difficult to play softly.

Use the and arrows to scroll through the range until the desired scaling value is displayed. Pressing and together resets the display to the default value of 50.

Page 5: Bass Sustain

When using the sustain pedal in Split mode, it is usually not desirable to have the left-hand bass sustain when the pedal is stepped on. This parameter defaults to OFF so that only the sound on the upper key range sustains. Use the and arrows to turn this function ON if you want the Bass Programs to sustain with the pedal.

Page 6: Sustain Catching

There may be circumstances where the DG8’s Sustain Pedal Catching function is not especially useful for what you’re playing. Use the and arrows on this page to turn the Sustain Catching feature of the DG8 ON or OFF. For details on what this function does, see the description on the next page. Its default setting is ON.

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 HOW the Sounds are Selected Single ModeLayers Splits Split-with-LayerUsing the Controls Level ControlsTranspose Tune ButtonMidi 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 Single Mode Selecting Internal SoundsLayer 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 Playing the DG8 QCard Programs In a Split-with-Layer Create the SplitDG8 Sound Chart Group Name Primary Sound Labels LAYER/SPLIT Sound LabelsTune Front Panel ControlsTranspose Effects Graphic EQChannel 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 Functions Midi BasicsMidi Messages Midi HardwareChannel 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 Midi Implementation Chart SpecificationsAppendix 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.