Chapter 1: Getting Started

TURN IT ON AND PLAY IT

Flip the power switch on the DG8’s rear panel. The front panel display will illuminate and, if this is the first time you’ve used the DG8, it will recall Keyboard Program Pno1A:True Grand and display it under the PRIMARY SOUND heading.

1.AutoDemos

Press and hold the PLAY button, then press the TUNE button to enter Demo mode. The display will prompt you to select one of three demonstration songs to play by pressing the PIANO 1, PIANO 2 or PIANO 3 Bank buttons. You can listen to any demo in its entirety, or press the PLAY button to end a demo that is playing.

HOW THE SOUNDS ARE ORGANIZED

2.Keyboard Banks

The Keyboard Banks contain the main polyphonic sound programs in the DG8’s internal memory.

Each of the 15 Keyboard Banks contains four Keyboard Programs. Thus, each Bank represents a sound category – a group of related sounds – and the name of the category is printed on each button.

The Keyboard Bank buttons are used in conjunction with the and arrows to access the Keyboard Programs in each Bank:

Press a Keyboard Bank button to select a Keyboard category. The name of a Keyboard Program from the selected Bank will appear in the PRIMARY SOUND segment of the display.

Use the arrow on the right side of the display to scroll forward through the four Keyboard Programs in the Bank. If you continue to scroll forward with the arrow, when the last Program in the bank is reached, the display will “wrap” to the first Program.

Use the arrow to scroll backward through the four Keyboard Programs in each Bank. If you continue to scroll backward with the arrow, when the first Program in the Bank is reached, the display will wrap to the last Program.

Keyboard Programs can be played by themselves, layered together (or layered with a Card Program) or split with a Bass or Card Program. See topics 4, 5 and 6 on the next few pages for information on these Play modes.

3.Bass Banks

Similar to the Keyboard Banks, the Bass Banks contain the main bass sound programs in the DG8’s internal memory. And, like the Keyboard Banks, each of the seven Bass Banks contains four Bass Programs. Each Bank represents a category of related bass sounds and the name of the category is printed on each button.

Note that the DG8’s internal Bass Programs are programmed without modulation – they will not respond to the modulation setting for the AUX pedal, nor modulation commands received over MIDI. Also, there is a minimal amount of Reverb and Chorus effects programmed into the Bass Programs.

DG8 REFERENCE MANUAL

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Alesis DG8 manual Turn IT on and Play IT, HOW the Sounds are Organized, AutoDemos, Keyboard Banks, Bass Banks

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.