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Alesis DM5 manual

Models: DM5

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External Triggering: Chapter 6

This chart represents three signals which are “seen” by the DM5. Signal 1 is a legitimate hit from the snare pad. Signal 2 is the Tom 1 pad, but it is not a hit. It is the pad being triggered by stand vibrations from the first snare hit. Signal 3 is a second "real" hit from the snare pad.

As you can see the Xtalk threshold is set at a value of 30 (represented by the dotted line). The two snare hits (signals 1 and 3) both register well above the Xtalk threshold. However, the tom (signal 2) registers too soft (at 20), and is correctly ignored by the DM5.

If the Xtalk level had been set at an improper value (in this case lower than 20), signal 2 would exceed the Xtalk threshold, and the DM5 would have triggered the sound. This illustrates how proper adjustment of the Xtalk parameter will result in the elimination of this “interaction” between the pads.

•Decay. This parameter represents the signal decay time, or the amount of time between once a pad has been struck and triggers, to when it will trigger again from another hit. This is one of the more tricky issues of triggering. Here’s why:

When hits are spaced 2 or more seconds apart, the first signal has plenty of time to decay completely, making it easy to determine the second signal as an actual hit. However, when playing quick, repetitive hits it is much more difficult to deter- mine where one hit ends and the next one begins. To further complicate things, some drum sounds (especially acoustic drums) take a long time to decay. During this period, part of the decay can be interpreted as another closely-spaced hit.

This is where the Decay control comes in. The Decay control adjusts the time and threshold of the signal decay making it possible for the DM5 to correctly determine whether closely spaced signals are “real” hits or just decay. Selecting a higher Decay value (long decay times) will allow for the most reliable triggering but may miss quickly repeated hits. Lower Decay values (shorter times) will respond to quickly repeated hits but may be more prone to false triggering. Experimentation with these levels is necessary to achieve the proper results.

DM5 Reference Manual

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Alesis DM5 manual
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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.