Chapter 3: Connections

EXTERNAL TRIGGERS

The DM5 has twelve trigger inputs designed to accommodate the most widely used drum pads and other triggering sources. It’s triggering mechanism is an advanced Signal-to-MIDI converter which incorporates five user controllable parameters.

Trigger parameters are independent for each of the twelve inputs, and the set up is global for all Drum Sets.

The five types of user controlled parameters are:

Gain

Gain. This is the signal strength that the transducer is sending to the

 

triggers in the DM5. It’s adjustment is very similar to that of a tape

 

recorder’s VU meter. With the gain threshold set too low, soft hits may

 

never be recognized.

VCrv

Velocity Curve. There are eight separate curve tables, 0 through 7 which

 

represent the velocity curve, or sensitivity of the trigger input. Curves 1-

 

3 have the least amount of sensitivity; curve 4 has the median, or

 

“average type of play” sensitivity; and curves 5-7 are the most sensitive.

 

Curve 0 is “Unassigned”. This is a special situation parameter which is

 

fully explained in page 44.

Xtalk

Crosstalk. The Crosstalk parameter is the trigger suppression level

 

adjustment. It is used to control interaction problems between pads or

 

drums. Crosstalk problems can occur when two or more pads are

 

mounted on a single stand or rack.

Dec

Decay. This represents the signal decay time and threshold of the DM5’s

 

trigger inputs. In other words, Decay controls the amount of time

 

between once a pad has been struck and triggers, to when it will trigger

 

again from another hit. When properly adjusted, this parameter defeats

 

“double triggering” by allowing the DM5 to determine which signals

 

are actual hits, and which are secondary decay signals.

Nois

Noise. This parameter allows you to control the noise floor, or the signal

 

level threshold that an exterior vibration or sound must exceed before it

 

will trigger a drum sound. This is used mostly in situations where the

 

stage volume and vibrations are strong enough to “rattle” the drum

 

hardware to such a point that the DM5 “thinks” these vibrations are

 

actual hits. With the Noise set too high, you may experience false, or

 

“double” triggering. A properly adjusted Noise setting will allow the

 

highest dynamic range for the pad being used.

For more detailed information and examples, regarding the functions of these individual parameters, please refer to Chapter 5.

18

DM5 Reference Manual

Page 18 Page 20
Page 19
Image 19
Alesis DM5 manual External Triggers
Page 18 Page 20

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