Chapter 4: Overview

Output Options

Having two stereo output pairs allows for several options.

Stereo with Fixed Placement: Plug the left Main output into the left channel of your amp (or mixer), and the right Main output into the right channel. The default voice mix for the preset Drum Sets pans the drums between the Main output jacks in a way that works well for most applications.

Stereo with Variable Placement: Plug the left Main output into the left channel of your amp (or mixer), and the right Main output into the right channel. Pan the Drum Set drums between the Main output jacks as desired.

Stereo with Individual Outputs: This requires a stereo mixer with at least four channels, and provides individual outputs for any two drum voices. Plug the left Main out into a mixer channel panned fully to the left. Plug the right Main out into a mixer channel panned fully to the right. Plug the left Aux output into a third channel (panned to center for now) and the right Aux output into a fourth channel (also panned to center for now). Decide which two voices should be individual voices, such as kick and snare; assign these to the Aux outputs, and all other drums (panned as desired) to the Main outputs.

Pan the kick full left and the snare full right. Thus, the kick will appear in the left aux output, and the snare will appear in the right aux output. These outputs can feed different signal processors and then be sent to a mixing board. Make sure that the drums selected for individual outputs are panned to the extreme left or right in the DM5. Otherwise, some of the sound from one drum will leak into the other output.

Separate Percussion/Drum Outputs: Standard drum kit sounds can be spread in stereo and assigned to the main outputs, with percussion sounds spread in stereo and assigned to the Aux outputs. Run the outputs to a mixing console, and you can treat the drum kit and percussion sounds as two submixes. This technique might also be useful if you’re recording the part on tape; feed the drums to two tape tracks, and the percussion to two other tracks. Adjust the balance between the two in the mix, or fade the percussion in and out independently of the trap drum sounds. Or, process the two groups individually.

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DM5 Reference Manual

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Alesis DM5 manual Output Options
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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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