Alesis DM5 manual Decay, Noise, Footswitch Mode

Page 48

External Triggering: Chapter 6

DECAY

If a pad or drum “double triggers” when it is struck, it may be necessary to adjust the Decay level. This is evident when shortly after the initial strike to a pad, a second trigger from the same pad is generated, or it “double triggers”. Note: With certain pads it may not be necessary to adjust this parameter.

With the Dec parameter selected (flashing), turn the [VALUE] knob to select the desired level of decay suppression necessary to stop the pad from double triggering (00 is minimum, 99 maximum). This level will depend on your current set up, including the mounting configurations and the type of pads used.

When triggering from acoustic drums, the factors involved are staggering. Not only do the type and size of drum make a big difference. Whether the drum is single or double headed, the tension of the head(s), the muffling, and the trigger placement all play very important roles in getting good results and proper “tracking” of your play. For more detailed tips and suggestions in these areas please refer to Tips On Triggering From Acoustic Drums, on page 49.

NOISE

When in a high Noise floor level situation such as playing live on a stage with bass cabinets nearby, it may be necessary to adjust the Noise parameter level.

With the Nois parameter selected (flashing), turn the [VALUE] knob to select the desired level of suppression necessary to stop the pad from false triggering (00 is minimum, 99 maximum). Stage Noise and rumble, the stability of drum risers and platforms, volume, and crowd vibrations are all factors in choosing the proper level.

Remember: In keeping potential problems to a minimum, it is a good idea to try to keep some distance between your pad or drum kit, and nearby speaker cabinets (especially bass cabinets). Whenever possible, try to aim them so they are not facing directly towards your set up. Also, avoid unsteady drum risers and hardware.

FOOTSWITCH MODE

There are two footswitch options, Hi Hat Pedal (which lets a footswitch act like a hi hat pedal) and Drum Set Advance (pressing the footswitch increments the Drum Set to the next higher number; past 20, it wraps around to 00 again).

You can use either a normally closed or normally open momentary contact footswitch. Plug it in to the rear panel [FOOTSWITCH] jack before powering up the DM5; on power up, it will automatically sense the footswitch polarity and calibrate itself accordingly. If your footswitch seems to respond “backwards,” make sure the footswitch plug is fully inserted into the footswitch jack, then turn power off and on.

➀Press the [EXT TRIG] button repeatedly until page 3 is selected.

➁Use the [VALUE] knob to select the desired Footswitch function (HAt or Adv).

Two additional parameters (located in pages 4 and 5) are used when the Footswitch Mode is set to HAt. Ext Trig page 4 shows the MIDI note number that the footswitch will trigger when it is pressed. Page 5 shows the MIDI note number that Trigger Input #1 will play when that pad is hit while the footswitch is held closed.

DM5 Reference Manual

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Contents Alesis DM5 HOW to USE this Manual IntroductionDM5 Reference Manual Contents Appendix a TROUBLE-SHOOTING Midi Implementation ChartMidi Functions External TriggeringSetting UP AC Power HookupUnpacking and Inspection ChapterAbout Audio Cables Basic Audio HookupMidi Hookup To turn on the Midi Thru parameterExternal Triggers Hookup Powering UP Your First Session With the DM5Playing the Demo Sequence WHAT’S a Drum SET? Playing the DM5Auditioning Internal Programs Selecting the Midi ChannelChoosing Voices in a Drum SET Storing AN Edited Drum SET Naming a Drum SETRecalling the Factory Drum Sets Midi OUT/THRU Mode To turn on Midi Thru ModeConnections Example 1 Using a Midi Keyboard To set the Midi ChannelTo set the Root Note Example 2 Using a Midi Sequencer Local Mode To turn the Local Control offExample 3 Using TWO or More DM5 Modules To turn the Midi Overflow Mode onExternal Triggers To setup the external triggers Crosstalk To Set the Crosstalk valueTo set the Decay value To set the Noise valueFootswitch Hookup To set the Footswitch ModeOverview Basic and DefinitionsVoice Random VoicesDM5 Polyphony Midi Note RangeAbout the User Interface Reading the DisplayFunction Buttons ButtonsMULTI-PAGE Functions Drum Note Selection Editing Parameter ValuesStore Button Preview ButtonFunction Buttons TuneMIX OutputOutput Options Drum SET EXT TrigGroup Midi Copying a NOTE’S Parameters to AnotherMidi Functions Drum SET Root NoteMidi Channel Program Change Enable Local ControlControllers Enable Program Change Table Saving Data VIA MidiTo edit the Program Change table Receiving Data from Another Midi Device To back upExternal Triggering OverviewAbout Trigger Parameters Page Example Trigger Selection Trigger Note Assignment GainVelocity Curve Method One Method TwoCrosstalk Footswitch Mode DecayNoise Understanding HI HAT Pedal Mode Trigger Placement Tips on Triggering from Acoustic DrumsOutput Sensitivity MountingIf you play with a fairly tight batter head, try this If you play with a looser head, try thisFor head mounting For shell mountingMounting Hardware and Configuration MufflingLarge Toms External Triggering DM5 Reference Manual TROUBLE-SHOOTING TROUBLE-SHOOTING IndexMAINTENANCE/SERVICE RE-INITIALIZINGMaintenance Obtaining Repair ServiceRefer ALL Servicing to Alesis Customers in the USA
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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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