Alesis DM5 manual External Triggers

Page 19

Chapter 3: Connections

EXTERNAL TRIGGERS

The DM5 has twelve trigger inputs designed to accommodate the most widely used drum pads and other triggering sources. It’s triggering mechanism is an advanced Signal-to-MIDI converter which incorporates five user controllable parameters.

Trigger parameters are independent for each of the twelve inputs, and the set up is global for all Drum Sets.

The five types of user controlled parameters are:

Gain

Gain. This is the signal strength that the transducer is sending to the

 

triggers in the DM5. It’s adjustment is very similar to that of a tape

 

recorder’s VU meter. With the gain threshold set too low, soft hits may

 

never be recognized.

VCrv

Velocity Curve. There are eight separate curve tables, 0 through 7 which

 

represent the velocity curve, or sensitivity of the trigger input. Curves 1-

 

3 have the least amount of sensitivity; curve 4 has the median, or

 

“average type of play” sensitivity; and curves 5-7 are the most sensitive.

 

Curve 0 is “Unassigned”. This is a special situation parameter which is

 

fully explained in page 44.

Xtalk

Crosstalk. The Crosstalk parameter is the trigger suppression level

 

adjustment. It is used to control interaction problems between pads or

 

drums. Crosstalk problems can occur when two or more pads are

 

mounted on a single stand or rack.

Dec

Decay. This represents the signal decay time and threshold of the DM5’s

 

trigger inputs. In other words, Decay controls the amount of time

 

between once a pad has been struck and triggers, to when it will trigger

 

again from another hit. When properly adjusted, this parameter defeats

 

“double triggering” by allowing the DM5 to determine which signals

 

are actual hits, and which are secondary decay signals.

Nois

Noise. This parameter allows you to control the noise floor, or the signal

 

level threshold that an exterior vibration or sound must exceed before it

 

will trigger a drum sound. This is used mostly in situations where the

 

stage volume and vibrations are strong enough to “rattle” the drum

 

hardware to such a point that the DM5 “thinks” these vibrations are

 

actual hits. With the Noise set too high, you may experience false, or

 

“double” triggering. A properly adjusted Noise setting will allow the

 

highest dynamic range for the pad being used.

For more detailed information and examples, regarding the functions of these individual parameters, please refer to Chapter 5.

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DM5 Reference Manual

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Contents Alesis DM5 Introduction HOW to USE this ManualDM5 Reference Manual Contents External Triggering Appendix a TROUBLE-SHOOTINGMidi Implementation Chart Midi FunctionsChapter Setting UPAC Power Hookup Unpacking and InspectionBasic Audio Hookup About Audio CablesTo turn on the Midi Thru parameter Midi HookupExternal Triggers Hookup Your First Session With the DM5 Powering UPPlaying the Demo Sequence Selecting the Midi Channel WHAT’S a Drum SET?Playing the DM5 Auditioning Internal ProgramsChoosing Voices in a Drum SET Naming a Drum SET Storing AN Edited Drum SETRecalling the Factory Drum Sets To turn on Midi Thru Mode Midi OUT/THRU ModeConnections To set the Midi Channel Example 1 Using a Midi KeyboardTo set the Root Note Example 2 Using a Midi Sequencer To turn the Local Control off Local ModeTo turn the Midi Overflow Mode on Example 3 Using TWO or More DM5 ModulesExternal Triggers To setup the external triggers To Set the Crosstalk value CrosstalkTo set the Noise value To set the Decay valueTo set the Footswitch Mode Footswitch HookupRandom Voices OverviewBasic and Definitions VoiceMidi Note Range DM5 PolyphonyReading the Display About the User InterfaceButtons Function ButtonsMULTI-PAGE Functions Preview Button Drum Note SelectionEditing Parameter Values Store ButtonTune Function ButtonsOutput MIXOutput Options EXT Trig Drum SETGroup Copying a NOTE’S Parameters to Another MidiDrum SET Root Note Midi FunctionsMidi Channel Local Control Program Change EnableControllers Enable Saving Data VIA Midi Program Change TableTo edit the Program Change table To back up Receiving Data from Another Midi DeviceOverview External TriggeringAbout Trigger Parameters Page Example Trigger Selection Gain Trigger Note AssignmentVelocity Curve Method Two Method OneCrosstalk Decay Footswitch ModeNoise Understanding HI HAT Pedal Mode Mounting Trigger PlacementTips on Triggering from Acoustic Drums Output SensitivityFor shell mounting If you play with a fairly tight batter head, try thisIf you play with a looser head, try this For head mountingMuffling Mounting Hardware and ConfigurationLarge Toms External Triggering DM5 Reference Manual RE-INITIALIZING TROUBLE-SHOOTINGTROUBLE-SHOOTING Index MAINTENANCE/SERVICECustomers in the USA MaintenanceObtaining Repair Service Refer ALL Servicing to Alesis
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DM5 specifications

The Alesis DM5 is a renowned drum machine and percussion synthesizer that has garnered acclaim for its versatile features and high-quality sound. Embracing both the beginner and professional musician, the DM5 serves as an ideal platform for creating drum tracks, enhancing live performances, and adding depth to music productions.

At the heart of the DM5 is its comprehensive sound engine, which boasts a library of over 1,000 pre-recorded samples. These samples encompass a diverse range of instruments, from acoustic drums to electronic beats, allowing users to explore various music genres seamlessly. The DM5 features 25 of the most popular drum and percussion sounds that can be played via a MIDI controller or the built-in pads. This wide selection provides musicians with the flexibility to craft unique rhythms and textures.

An essential aspect of the DM5 is its user-friendly interface. The backlit LCD screen enables easy navigation through the vast array of features and settings. Users can quickly select sounds, adjust parameters, and create grooves with intuitive controls. The built-in sequencer is another standout feature, allowing musicians to record and edit patterns with precision. It supports up to 99 preset songs, enabling easy recall of favorite patterns for live gigs.

The DM5 also includes MIDI capabilities, facilitating seamless integration with other music production equipment. Users can connect external MIDI devices, triggering sounds directly from their keyboards or controllers. This interconnectedness promotes a fluid workflow in studio and live environments.

Furthermore, the DM5 offers a variety of built-in effects, such as delay and reverb, which enhance the overall sound. These effects provide additional depth and richness to drum tracks, ensuring that the final output remains polished and dynamic. The unit also supports audio outputs for connecting to mixers or amplifiers, making it suitable for both studio recordings and live performances.

In summary, the Alesis DM5 stands out as a powerful drum machine and percussion synthesizer. With its extensive sound library, user-friendly interface, integrated sequencer, MIDI capabilities, and built-in effects, it provides musicians with the tools to create and perform with ease. Whether in a home studio or on stage, the DM5 remains a versatile choice for anyone looking to explore the world of drum programming and music production.
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