Alesis DM5 manual About Audio Cables, Basic Audio Hookup

Page 7

Chapter 1: Setting Up

ABOUT AUDIO CABLES

The connections between the DM5 and your studio are your music’s lifeline, so use only high quality cables. These should be low-capacitance shielded cables with a stranded (not solid) internal conductor and a low-resistance shield. Although quality cables cost more, they do make a difference. Route cables to the DM5 correctly by observing the following precautions:

•Do not bundle audio cables with AC power cords.

•Avoid running audio cables near sources of electromagnetic interference such as transformers, monitors, computers, etc.

•Do not place cables where they can be stepped on. Stepping on a cable may not cause immediate damage, but it can compress the insulation between the center conductor and shield (degrading performance) or reduce the cable’s reliability.

•Avoid twisting the cable or having it make sharp, right angle turns.

•Never unplug a cable by pulling on the wire itself. Always unplug by firmly grasping the body of the plug and pulling directly outward.

•Although Alesis does not endorse any specific product, chemicals such as Tweek and Cramolin, when applied to electrical connectors, are claimed to improve the electrical contact between connectors.

BASIC AUDIO HOOKUP

✪When connecting audio cables and/or turning power on and off, make sure that all devices in your system are turned off and the volume controls are turned down.

The DM5 has two Main and two Aux audio outputs on the rear panel, as well as a headphone output on the front panel. These can provide an amplification system or mixer with several different audio hookup options:

•Mono. Connect a mono cord from the [MAIN OUTPUT–R] to a mono amplification system or individual mixer input.

•Stereo. Connect two mono cords from the [MAIN OUTPUT–L] and [MAIN OUTPUT– R] to a stereo amplification system or two mixer inputs.

•Dual Stereo/Four Individual Outs. Connect two mono cords from the [MAIN OUTPUT–L] and [MAIN OUTPUT–R] and two mono cords from the [AUX OUTPUT–L] and [AUX OUTPUT–R] to a dual stereo amplification system, or four mixer inputs.

•Stereo Headphones. Plug a set of high-quality stereo headphones into the front panel [PHONES] jack.

6

DM5 Reference Manual

Page 6 Page 8
Image 7
Page 6 Page 8
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
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