Alesis DM5 manual About Trigger Parameters

Page 41

Chapter 6: External Triggering

ABOUT TRIGGER PARAMETERS

The DM5 now offers five user controllable trigger parameters. These are:

•VCrv. (Velocity Curve). This represents the velocity curve, or the sensitivity of the trigger input. There are eight separate curve tables, 0 through 7. Using these settings it is possible to adjust the DM5’s triggers to accompany a wide variety of playing styles, and to help compensate for sensitivity variances between different brands of drum pads and triggers.

The lower the setting, the less sensitive the velocity curve and the higher the setting, the more sensitive. For example, a pad using a setting of 7 will reach a MIDI velocity of 127 with just a moderate strike. For a pad whose velocity curve setting is 1, only a very hard hit would generate such a velocity.

For average type of play (striking pads with velocities ranging from very soft to very hard) the default setting of 4 is ideal in achieving the full range of sensitivity which corresponds to MIDI velocities of 1 through 127.

Note: Curve 0 is named “Unassigned”. The function of this curve is explained fully in the section entitled “Velocity Curve” on page 44.

•Xtalk. (Crosstalk). Sometimes hitting one pad will cause a nearby pad to false trigger or “crosstalk”. This is generally due to stand vibrations which can affect the other pads. These vibrations send signals to the nearby pads which can cause false triggering. The Xtalk adjustment acts as a suppression control.

A higher value adjustment equals greater suppression of the signal, a lower value equals less suppression. Therefore, the higher the value setting, the less likely the nearby pad (or drum) will trigger from stand or head vibrations.

This is how it works:

First, you strike a pad and the DM5 triggers its sound. Shortly after this hit the DM5 receives a secondary, “softer” signal from a nearby pad. Before the DM5 will play this softer signal, it will scan the other inputs to determine whether this was a legitimate hit, or simply a vibration from a stand or head.

It does this by comparing the level of this soft signal with the threshold level set in the Xtalk parameter. If this secondary signal level is greater than the allowable threshold level, the DM5 will trigger its sound. If the signal is less than the allowable threshold level, the DM5 will ignore it.

By adjusting the crosstalk level to a higher value, you set a higher threshold for the signal to exceed, and reduce the ability of a pad (drum) to crosstalk. The following chart shows a scenario with a properly adjusted Xtalk level.

40

DM5 Reference Manual

Page 40 Page 42
Image 41
Page 40 Page 42
Contents Alesis DM5 Introduction HOW to USE this ManualDM5 Reference Manual Contents Midi Implementation Chart Appendix a TROUBLE-SHOOTINGMidi Functions External TriggeringAC Power Hookup Setting UPUnpacking and Inspection ChapterBasic Audio Hookup About Audio CablesTo turn on the Midi Thru parameter Midi HookupExternal Triggers Hookup Playing the Demo Sequence Powering UPYour First Session With the DM5 Playing the DM5 WHAT’S a Drum SET?Auditioning Internal Programs Selecting the Midi ChannelChoosing Voices in a Drum SET Recalling the Factory Drum Sets Storing AN Edited Drum SETNaming a Drum SET Connections Midi OUT/THRU ModeTo turn on Midi Thru Mode To set the Root Note Example 1 Using a Midi KeyboardTo set the Midi Channel 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 HookupBasic and Definitions OverviewVoice Random VoicesMidi Note Range DM5 PolyphonyReading the Display About the User InterfaceMULTI-PAGE Functions Function ButtonsButtons Editing Parameter Values Drum Note SelectionStore Button Preview ButtonTune Function ButtonsOutput MIXOutput Options Group Drum SETEXT Trig Copying a NOTE’S Parameters to Another MidiDrum SET Root Note Midi FunctionsMidi Channel Local Control Program Change EnableControllers Enable To edit the Program Change table Program Change TableSaving Data VIA Midi To back up Receiving Data from Another Midi DeviceOverview External TriggeringAbout Trigger Parameters Page Example Trigger Selection Velocity Curve Trigger Note AssignmentGain Method Two Method OneCrosstalk Noise Footswitch ModeDecay Understanding HI HAT Pedal Mode Tips on Triggering from Acoustic Drums Trigger PlacementOutput Sensitivity MountingIf you play with a looser head, try this If you play with a fairly tight batter head, try thisFor head mounting For shell mountingLarge Toms Mounting Hardware and ConfigurationMuffling External Triggering DM5 Reference Manual TROUBLE-SHOOTING Index TROUBLE-SHOOTINGMAINTENANCE/SERVICE RE-INITIALIZINGObtaining Repair Service MaintenanceRefer ALL Servicing to Alesis Customers in the USA
Related manuals
Manual 1 pages 58.02 Kb

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.
Top Page Image Contents