Chapter 4: Overview

FUNCTION BUTTONS

The eight Function buttons select eight different groups of parameters, as shown in the display. Upon pushing a Function button, it will illuminate and deselect any previously-selected Function button (its button’s light goes out). The Functions are:

Button

Function

VOICE

Chooses the drum sound to be edited and/or assigned.

TUNE

Sets the drum sound’s tuning.

MIX

Sets the drum sound’s Volume and Pan parameters.

OUTPUT

Selects one of the two sets of stereo outputs.

DRUM SET

Selects one of the 21 Drum Sets.

EXT TRIG

Determines which trigger inputs will trigger which drums, and

 

sets up trigger input response for the most reliable triggering.

GROUP

Determines how a drum sound (or group of drum sounds) will

 

respond to successive series of triggers.

MIDI

Edits DM5 MIDI parameters.

For more information about each Function button, see pages 28 though 30.

/ BUTTONS

Upon selecting a function, the display will show one or more editable parameters. A flashing parameter indicates that it is selected and ready to be edited (using the [VALUE] knob). You can select a different parameter to be edited by pressing the appropriate [] or [] button (see next paragraph) until the selected parameter is flashing.

Pressing the [] button moves the cursor from left to right, or clockwise (if editing External Trigger parameters). Pressing the [] button moves the cursor from right to left, or counterclockwise.

MULTI-PAGE FUNCTIONS

The [MIDI] and [EXT TRIG] Function buttons have more parameters than can fit in the display at once. Therefore, their parameters are divided among multiple pages (the [MIDI] Function button has five different pages, [EXT TRIG] also has five). To access different pages within these functions, either:

Press the [EXT TRIG] or [MIDI] button to advance to the next page. Upon reaching the last page in the series, further pressing of these buttons “wraps around” to the first page in the series.

Repeatedly pressing either [] or [] button will eventually move past all the parameters on the current page to another page.

The total number of pages is indicated by the numbers appearing in the bottom left corner of the display. The currently selected page will have a box around its number.

26

DM5 Reference Manual

Page 27
Image 27
Alesis DM5 manual Function Buttons, MULTI-PAGE Functions

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.