Index

CONTENTS

 

1: SETTING UP

5

Unpacking and Inspection

5

AC Power

5

Line Conditioners and Protectors

5

About Audio Cables

6

Basic Audio Hookup

6

MIDI Hookup

7

External Triggers Hookup

8

2: YOUR FIRST SESSION WITH THE DM5

9

Powering Up

9

Playing the Demo Sequence

9

What’s a Drum Set?

10

Playing the DM5

10

Auditioning Internal Programs

10

Selecting the MIDI Channel

10

Choosing Voices in a Drum Set

11

Storing an Edited Drum Set

12

Naming a Drum Set

12

Recalling the Factory Drum Sets

12

3: CONNECTIONS

13

MIDI

13

Example 1: Using a MIDI Keyboard

14

Example 2: Using a MIDI Sequencer

15

Example 3: Using Two or More DM5 Modules

17

External Triggers

18

Footswitch Hookup

22

4: OVERVIEW

23

Basic and Definitions

23

The Voice

23

Random Voices

23

About the Edit Buffer

23

MIDI Note Range

24

DM5 Polyphony

24

Reading The Display

25

Function Buttons

26

/ Buttons

26

Multi-Page Functions

26

The Store button

27

The Note Chase Button

27

The Preview Button

27

Drum Note Selection

27

Function Buttons

28

Voice

28

Tune

28

Mix

29

Output

29

Drum Set

31

DM5 Reference Manual

3

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Alesis DM5 manual Contents

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.