Connections: Chapter 3

To setup the external triggers:

➀Plug in all of the triggers you will be using.

Refer to the chart on page 8 as a guide for connecting your triggers.

➁Press the [NOTE CHASE] button to turn the Note Chase feature off. The [NOTE CHASE] button’s light should be off. Note Chase is a feature that automatically displays the most recently struck pad, enabling you to easily “move” around the kit for editing purposes. However, the active trigger should always be selected manually since other unadjusted inputs could “fire” simultaneously during editing, resulting in confusion in the display.

➂Press [EXT TRIG].

The [EXT TRIG] button will light and the display will look like this:

In the middle section of the display there will appear three parameters: Note (NOTE), Gain (Gain) and Velocity Curve (VCrv). The lower section shows all 12 triggers; the selected trigger has a circle around it. The above example shows Trigger 1 selected. It is assigned to Note #46 (b∫1), its Gain is set to 80, and its Velocity Curve is set to 7. Note that the circle around Trigger 1 is flashing, indicating that it is selected for editing (using the [VALUE] knob).

➃Turn the [VALUE] knob to select a trigger from 1 to 12.

The selected trigger will have a flashing circle around its number in the display.

➄Press [] to select the NOTE parameter (the circle around the selected Trigger will stop flashing, and the NOTE parameter will flash); turn the [VALUE] knob to select a different note for the selected trigger.

Only follow this step if you want the trigger to play a different note than what it is already assigned to. If you wish to change the Drum Sound (Voice) associated with this note, see page 11.

➅Press [] to select the Gain parameter, and use the [VALUE] knob to set the selected trigger’s Gain (00-99) while watching the TRIG LEVEL bar-graph meter. Be aware that the gain values are extremely sensitive even in small increments. If the TRIG LEVEL shoots all the way from left to the far right, it indicates that the trigger level is reaching it’s full dynamic range. If a trigger’s Gain is adjusted properly, this will occur only on the strongest hits.

➆Press [] to select the VCrv parameter, and use the [VALUE] knob to set the selected trigger’s Velocity Curve (0-7).

Choose the sensitivity value which bests suits the style of play, or the pads being used. For average play, (hits ranging from very soft to very hard) the default setting of 4 will give you the full range of sensitivity which corresponds to MIDI velocities 1 through 127. Note: Velocity Curve 0, Unassigned, is fully explained on page 44.

DM5 Reference Manual

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Alesis DM5 manual To setup the external triggers
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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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