Overview: Chapter 4

ABOUT THE USER INTERFACE

READING THE DISPLAY

The display is made up of 6 sections.

1)Drum Set Number. This consists of two large digits which indicate the currently selected Drum Set (from 00 to 20).

2)Page Number Strip. When a Function button is selected (lit) which contains more parameters than will fit in the display at once, they will be divided among multiple pages. In this situation, the word PAGE will appear in the bottom left corner of the display followed by a series of numbers (up to 5) which indicate the total number of pages. The currently selected page’s number will have a box around it. Pressing the

selected Function button will advance to the next page. You can also navigate between pages and the parameters that appear in them by using the [] and [] buttons.

3)Drum Set Name/Parameter Name Strip. The top right section of the display will indicate the currently selected Drum Set’s name (when the [DRUM SET] button is lit), or the currently selected parameter’s name (when editing a Drum Set’s parameters). When editing, the named parameter’s value/setting will appear below it.

4)Parameter Value Strip. When editing, the selected parameter’s value will appear in the middle section of the display. When a parameter’s value flashes on and off, it indicates that it is selected for editing by using the [VALUE] knob. This section will appear blank when the [DRUM SET] button is selected (lit).

5)Triggers Strip. The lower middle and right sections of the display list all twelve external triggers. When a trigger is detected, a circle will appear around its number. When editing the External Trigger parameters ([EXT TRIG] button lit), a circle will appear around the selected trigger that you are editing.

6)Trigger Level. The bottom of the display acts as a VU meter indicating the current level of the incoming trigger(s). When a trigger is struck hard, this indicator will jump from left to right by an amount that accurately reflects the trigger’s signal. When a trigger is struck lightly, the level indicator will move only slightly from left to right. Use this indicator when adjusting the Gain parameter for each of your triggers.

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Alesis DM5 manual About the User Interface, Reading the Display
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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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