After perfecting these Patterns, Song mode offers two ways to create a song:

•Program a list of Patterns, in the order in which they are to be played.

•Select Patterns in real time, and the SR-16 will remember your performance.

The SR-16 stores up to 100 User-programmable Songs.

Breaking a song into Patterns saves time since elements of a song often repeat. Example: The second verse might have the same drum pattern as the first verse. Rather than record the same Pattern twice, simply record one Pattern, then list it twice when assembling a Song. This also saves memory (thus leaving room for more Patterns and Songs) since listing a Song step takes up much less memory than recording a Pattern.

1.2B The Four Different Types of Patterns

The SR-16 introduces exciting new Song construction techniques. The SR-16 excels at live performance—something usually not associated with drum machines. The key to using these advanced features is understanding the different types of available Patterns.

•Preset Patterns provide a variety of rock, jazz, pop, and other rhythms programmed by professional drummers.

•User Patterns are Patterns you can program, edit, and save. The Preset/User button selects between these two master banks of Presets. The only way to modify a Preset Pattern is to copy it to a User Pattern, where it can be edited.

There are 50 of each type of Pattern, numbered 00-49. However, each numbered Pattern actually contains four different "sub-Patterns":

•A pair of independent Main Patterns (A and B, selected by their respective buttons).

•A pair of associated Fill Patterns (A Fill and B Fill, selected by pressing the FILL button when either A or B is selected). The Fills primarily provide transitional Patterns between Main Patterns, which makes for more realistic drum parts. The associated Fill Patterns share the same length, Drum Set, and name as their Main Patterns (e.g., if A is 16 beats, A Fill is 16 beats). Otherwise, they are independent.

The reason for pairing the two different A and B Patterns together is simply so that you can switch back and forth between them rapidly in live performance or while improvising. However, A and B Patterns can be treated as completely independent Patterns if desired and can have different lengths, Drum Sets, etc.

Always think of the Main Pattern and its associated Fill as a unit. For example, if you copy a Main Pattern to another Main Pattern, its Fill will travel along with it.

Note that even though there are "only" 50 Patterns, the A and B variations double that to 100 Patterns, and the Fills double that again to 200 Patterns. Added to the Preset Patterns, 400 total Patterns are available.

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Alesis SR-16 manual 2B The Four Different Types of Patterns
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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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