Alesis DG8 manual Midi Hardware, Midi Messages, Channel Messages Voice Messages

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Chapter 3: MIDI Functions

MIDI HARDWARE

MIDI instruments and devices are connected by a fairly simple system of cables. The MIDI OUT port transmits data from one device one-way through the cable to the receiving instrument’s MIDI IN. You can setup each device in the system to send and respond to MIDI commands in a certain way. For example, you can tell a keyboard or guitar synth to send everything in MIDI except for Program Change commands. By the same token, you can tell your sound module to respond to any MIDI command sent to it but ignore Velocity data.

MIDI THRU simply passes data received by MIDI IN right back out to another device connected to it. This makes “chaining” possible in a MIDI system. For some examples in connecting MIDI devices together, see our illustrations in the section entitled The DG8 in a Music System starting on page 20.

Also of importance in discussing MIDI hardware is the term voice. An instrument’s voice is the most basic unit of sound generation. It can be an integrated circuit chip (or chips) or can be a sampled sound in the instrument’s memory, like the DG8.

MIDI MESSAGES

The are two types of MIDI messages that are communicated through your network of MIDI cables: Channel and System.

Channel Messages are typically the messages you’ll be most concerned with for routine MIDI operations and can originate (be transmitted) from virtually any device in the system. MIDI provides 16 “Channels” through which certain MIDI data is shared among devices in the system. The communication of certain messages along Channels makes it possible to connect many devices together but allows you to specify which devices communicate directly with each other. For example, you could have seven MIDI devices that are all connected to each other. Two of the devices can be communicating on Channel 2, two others on Channel 9 and the remaining three on Channel 4, as one possible setup.

Channel messages are further divided into two groups: Voice messages and Mode messages. Because these messages are channelized – they are communicated on a designated Channel number – they are only recognized by instruments that have been set to receive on that Channel.

System messages, on the other hand, do not have a channel number and can be received by any device in a system. This permits devices in a MIDI system to share certain data without having to be set to a particular Channel. System messages, like Channel messages, can originate from just about any MIDI device in the system. The three types of System messages are called Real Time messages, Common messages and Exclusive messages. Because none of these types of messages are implemented on the DG8, we will not be covering them in this manual.

CHANNEL MESSAGES: VOICE MESSAGES

Each MIDI device is assigned a Basic MIDI Channel. This is the MIDI Channel that the instrument will use to transmit MIDI data and can be set to any Channel # 1 - 16. This is also the MIDI Channel that the instrument will receive on.

This principle is not set in concrete, however. For many MIDI instruments, the ability to communicate – both transmit and receive – on several Channels at once is quite

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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 Troubleshooting Contents Midi FunctionsSpecifications Warranty IndexSafety 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 What YOU’LL Need Getting StartedUnpack IT SET IT UPAttaching the Music Stand Power Setting UP the DG8 in a HomeHook IT UP Sustain PedalDG8 in a Music System Cable to the Midi in of the next device in the system As a SlavePlay Mode HOW the Sounds are Organized Turn IT on and Play ITAutoDemos Keyboard BanksCard Bank Layers Single ModeHOW the Sounds are Selected Split-with-Layer SplitsLevel Controls Using the ControlsTune Button TransposeHow the Basic Midi Channel Works on the DG8 Graphic EQMidi Channel Function Getting Started HOW the Sounds are Organized Playing the DG8Overview Bass Banks How Sound Programs are Named Using the Display and Sound Selection ButtonsUsing the Cursor and the and Arrows Other and Arrow Functions Selecting Internal Sounds Single ModeLayer Mode Playing the DG8 Playing the DG8 Split Mode Split-with-Layer Card Programs in a Layer Using the External Card SoundsCard Programs in Single Mode 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 ChartTranspose Front Panel ControlsTune Graphic EQ EffectsController Name Midi Controller # Midi FunctionsChannel Messages 2 Local Control Sustain PedalsBackground Pedal Connections SostenutoSoft Pedal Playing the DG8 Inputs Audio Inputs and OutputsOutputs Initializing the DG8 Factory DefaultsPOWER-UP Resetting Midi Basics Midi FunctionsChannel Messages Voice Messages Midi HardwareMidi 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 GlossaryChannel All Notes OffControllers ModeAppendix B Troubleshooting TroubleshootingJack Cleaning and Maintenance Appendix B Troubleshooting Appendix C Specifications SpecificationsMidi Implementation Chart Specifications Obtaining Repair Service WarrantyAppendix D Warranty Refer ALL Servicing to AlesisAppendix 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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