ALESIS SR-16 TROUBLESHOOTING CHART

Symptom

What’s Wrong

What To Do

No display.

Power switch not on.

Push power switch in.

 

Power supply not connected.

Check Power supply connections.

 

Bad power supply.

Try known good power supply.

 

Improper supply.

Try known good power supply. Power supply must be 9-

 

 

12V A.C. A 9 volt D.C. supply won’t work, but it won’t

 

 

harm the unit.

 

 

 

Buttons have no effect. LCD reads “Software Error”.

Software values are out of range (unit has “crashed”). As

Reinitialize software. Turn power on while holding down

LCD shows nonsense, all lights on, or unit has lost all

with all computing devices, crashes can be caused by any

“ERASE” and PLAY”.

memory.

loss of power while the unit is NOT sitting idle. Machine is

 

 

in idle when in either the Pattern or Song select pages

 

 

(i.e., not playing or recording). Crashes can also be

 

 

caused by errors during tape loads or corrupted MIDI sys

 

 

ex loads. It is recommended that data be saved and

 

 

verified frequently to prevent losses of large amounts of

 

 

data.

 

 

 

 

No sound.

Volume knob at minimum.

Turn knob clockwise.

 

Bad audio cable(s).

Replace with known good cable(s).

 

Pads set to wrong outputs.

Check Drum Set setup for proper output selection.

 

Miv volume too low.

Check Drum Set and increase mix volumes if necessary.

 

 

 

Sound is distorted.

Mix volume(s) set too loud.

Check Drum Set and decrease mix volume(s) if necessary.

 

SR-16 output level is too high and is overdriving receiver input.

Reduce overall volume or reduce drum set mix levels.

 

 

 

Drums don’t “pan” in stereo field.

Drum set panning parameters are set incorrectly.

Set Drum Set panning as per section 4.4.

 

Bad audio cable(s).

Check cables by replacing with known good cables.

 

Effects processors or mixing consoles being used in

 

 

conjunction with the SR-16 are corrupting the stereo mix.

Isolate and correct the problem.

 

 

 

One or more pads not working.

Improper output selection.

Check Drum Set parameters for correct output selection.

 

Bad audio cable(s).

Check cables by replacing with known good cables.

 

Pad’s mix level is set to 00.

Check Drum Set parameters for correct mix level.

 

Panning not correct.

Check Drum Set parameters for useful pan position.

 

 

 

Drums don’t play back as recorded. Some beats seem

Quantize values not set correctly.

Check quantize and swing values in RECORD SETUP.

shifted.

 

 

 

 

 

Won’t display certain drum beats in step edit mode.

"

"

 

 

 

Pads not touch sensitive.

Pad dynamics set to fixed volume.

Check pad velocity parameters in RECORD SETUP.

 

 

 

Other sequencers won’t “slave” to the SR-16.

SR-16 “Clock Out” turned off.

Turn the SR-16’s “Clock Out” on.

 

 

 

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Alesis manual Alesis SR-16 Troubleshooting Chart

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.