Chapter 3: Connections

EXAMPLE 1: USING A MIDI KEYBOARD

The DM5 may be “played” from a MIDI keyboard (or some other type of MIDI controller) by connecting the keyboard’s [MIDI OUT] to the DM5’s [MIDI IN]. This is illustrated in the diagram on page 17. This connection requires that two MIDI parameters be set to your satisfaction: MIDI Channel and Root Note.

MIDI Channel

Once connected, you will need to set the MIDI channels on both your keyboard and the DM5 so that they match. You can choose any of the 16 available channels. However, if you are also connected to other MIDI devices from your keyboard, you should consider assigning the DM5 to a MIDI channel that is not already in use. If you do assign the DM5 to the same channel as another device your keyboard is connected to, understand that (when the keyboard is set to that channel) both the DM5 and the other device(s) will be played simultaneously.

Note: If you are not sure which MIDI channel your keyboard is set to, set the DM5 to MIDI Channel 00 (omni mode); this selects all 16 MIDI channels.

To set the MIDI Channel:

➀Press the [MIDI] button.

The [MIDI] button will light. This selects the MIDI parameters for editing. There are 5 different pages of parameters; the bottom left corner of the display will indicate that this is PAGE 1. There are three parameters in this page: Root, Chan and Thru. The first parameter, Root will be selected (the value beneath it will be flashing).

➁Press the [] button once to select the Chan parameter (MIDI channel).

The Chan parameter’s value will flash in the display to indicate it is selected for editing.

➂Use the [VALUE] knob to select a MIDI channel from 01 – 16, or 00 to select all channels (this is also known as “omni mode”).

The display will change to indicate the currently selected MIDI channel.

Root Note

The default (factory setting) for triggering the notes in the DM5 from a MIDI keyboard is on a 1 to 1 ratio (no transposition). This means when you play a C1, you are triggering the Voice associated with C1 in the DM5. The DM5 responds to a “window” of 61 notes, beginning from C1 (note #36) to C5 (note #96). The beginning (low end) of this note window is called the “Root Note”. By changing the Root Note parameter in the DM5, you can “shift” the note window up or down, thus changing the relationship between the MIDI keyboard and the DM5’s Voices.

To set the Root Note:

➀Press the [MIDI] button.

The [MIDI] button will light. There are 5 different pages of parameters.

➁If not already selected, press the [MIDI] button repeatedly until PAGE 1 is selected. In the bottom left corner of the display, PAGE 1 will have a square around it. There are three parameters in this page: Root, Chan and Thru. The first parameter, Root will be selected (the value beneath it will be flashing).

➂Use the [VALUE] knob to set the Root Note parameter anywhere from 00 C-2to 67 G3.

The display will change to indicate the currently selected Root Note.

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DM5 Reference Manual

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Alesis DM5 manual Example 1 Using a Midi Keyboard, To set the Midi Channel, To set the Root Note
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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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