8 . 3 SOUND STACKING™

8.3A Basics

Sound Stacking™ was introduced by Alesis on its two earlier drum machines, the HR-16 and HR-16:B. It is a quick and efficient way of layering drum sounds to create thicker drum textures and gives the user wide capabilities for experimenting with new, personalized drum sounds. Through some intelligent software manipulation, a drum sound's rhythm pattern can be copied to any other drum pad thereby simultaneously triggering the drum sounds assigned to both pads. You can stack as many sounds as there are drum pads, but you'll most often need to have enough drum groups to create a drum set. Typically, the snare would be stacked with one or two other sounds and the kick might be stacked with one other sound. Of course, the actual use is totally up to you, but the possibilities are endless.

The operation is a simple copy function performed when the SR-16 is in stop mode and can be done at any time: while developing a rhythm pattern, during mixdown, if you're driving the SR-16 live through MIDI, or stack sounds on the SR-16's preset rhythm patterns. In conjunction with the SR-16's mix, pan, and tune functions, you can customize the drum sound to the specific needs of the song you are working on. This kind of flexibility makes the SR-16 a powerful production tool in the critical decision making process that gives personality to recorded music.

8.3B Sound Stacking when Using the SR-16 as a Drum Machine

When used as a drum machine, one pad's rhythm can be copied to another pad so that as the Pattern plays, both pads double a part (use the directions in section 3.3B to perform Sound Stacking). You can also copy the rhythm to additional pads if desired.

8 . 3C Editing Stacked Combinations

Remember that the stacked sounds can be further modified with the Drum Set parameters. Example: Timbale could be stacked with a snare, but mixed a bit lower than the snare to give the snare sound a "ring" without overpowering it.

Tuning changes can also be very effective. Example: Slightly detune two identical drums to create a thicker sound.

8 . 3D Sound Stacking via MIDI

When using the SR-16 as an expander module, each pad responds to a particular MIDI note number. Assigning two pads to the same note number (section 6.4) stacks those two pads into one combined sound (as triggered by the assigned MIDI note number). You are not limited to assigning two pads to the same note number—trigger all the pads from one MIDI note if you dare.

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Alesis manual 3A Basics, 3B Sound Stacking when Using the SR-16 as a Drum Machine, 3C Editing Stacked Combinations
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SR-16 specifications

The Alesis SR-16 is a legendary drum machine that has carved its niche in the realm of music production since its initial release in the early 1990s. Renowned for its affordability and user-friendly interface, the SR-16 has become a staple for musicians, producers, and composers across various genres. Its robust set of features and reliable performance make it an attractive choice for both beginners and seasoned professionals.

One of the standout features of the Alesis SR-16 is its expansive library of high-quality drum sounds. It houses 233 onboard drum and percussion sounds, encompassing everything from acoustic drum kits to electronic beats. The samples are derived from real instruments and meticulously recorded to provide a rich, authentic sound that can enhance any musical project. Additionally, the SR-16 allows users to layer and mix different sounds, giving them the flexibility to create customized drum tracks.

The SR-16 employs advanced sequencing capabilities, letting users create intricate patterns and beats with ease. It offers 50 preset patterns, spanning multiple musical styles, which can be edited and modified to suit individual needs. Users can also record their own patterns in real-time or step mode, allowing for greater creativity and control over the final output.

Alesis has designed the SR-16 with a user-friendly interface, featuring a backlit LCD screen and intuitive layout that simplifies the programming process. This accessibility makes the drum machine ideal for live performances as well as studio sessions. Furthermore, the SR-16 includes facilities for triggering sounds via MIDI, enabling seamless integration with other hardware and software setups.

Another notable feature is the onboard effects processing, which enhances the sound quality and provides additional sonic possibilities. The SR-16 includes reverb and filter effects, allowing users to manipulate their sounds and create depth within their musical arrangements.

The compact and rugged build of the Alesis SR-16 makes it suitable for musicians on the go. With its substantial battery life and adaptability for power sources, it is a reliable companion for live performances or recording sessions.

In conclusion, the Alesis SR-16 stands out as an essential tool for anyone looking to expand their musical toolkit. With its high-quality sounds, intuitive sequencing, and versatility, it remains a relevant choice decades after its introduction, merging classic design with modern technological advancements. Whether for crafting beats in the studio or performing live, the SR-16 delivers a unique and engaging drumming experience.
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