Alesis SR16 Drum Machine Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Some history on this device: The Alesis SR-16 has been in production since 1991 and has gone through only slight revisions to the hardware since its original release. The 16-bit drum samples are still the same today as they were on this unit over 15 years ago. It is regarded as a break-through piece of studio gear and regarded by many studio engineers as the first rhythm machine capable of producing a convincing enough drum track capable of replacing a real drummer in studio recordings for rock applications. (Prior to the SR-16, rhythm machines were commonly used in pop music in the 80's, but it was always clear to trained ears that a rhythm machine was used, the SR-16 successfully blurred the line and made it possible to use rhythm machines in genres that generally frowned upon electronic drums such as: rock, country and blues) You'll hear the SR-16 on many professional tracks by top name recording artist from the early to mid-90's.
Today the SR-16 can still be found in many professional and home recording studios. With the emergence of Pro Tools and other PC based Digital Audio Workstations, stand alone rhythm machines have become much less popular today in pro recording, but they are still very popular in home studios and for performing solo musicians around the world.
Comparing the SR-16 to newer products: Rhythm machines produced by Roland/BOSS, Yamaha and ZOOM are the SR-16's primary competition, with Roland and Alesis often cited as leaders and innovators in pro electronic percussion (these companies also produce the best quality electronic kits and the same samples are used in their rhythm machine products). Some of the features common to newer rhythm machines not found on the SR-16 include: 24-bit samples, more memory, bass guitar sequencer ability to store MIDI files on device.
Ease of use: Aside from its convincing sound quality, perhaps the reason the SR-16 has remained in production and a favorite among musicians is its ease of use. The SR-16 was designed with the non-drummer solo musician in mind and is considered one of the easiest rhythm machines to program. It's interface has been copied (but many would say not trumped) by BOSS, Yamaha and others. The manual, while poorly edited does more than any other rhythm machine owners guide to cater to solo musician who doesn't understand the first thing about sequencing drum tracks and it's A,FillA,B,FillB pattern foot switch configuration makes it easier to improvise with... In short, you don't get much customization with the SR-16, but what you do get feature was is going to be the most popular setup which makes the device much more approachable than many modern rhythm machines and sequencer options. Has a full MIDI in/out through implementation so the SR-16 can be patched in and controlled from DAW's (Pro Tools, Cubase, Live, etc...)
Comparing generations: If you're buying previously owned model be aware that some features have changed over the years. First generation SR-16 models (1991-circa 2001) had about 1/2 of the user memory than that of the current production SR-16. Also, the first generation units did not have a headphone jack. In the early 2000's Alesis updated all the preset patterns creating a market for "vintage" SR-16 machines. Also, over the years the price has dropped significantly. The SR-16 was originally marketed as a high-end studio product with a price tag around $400. While the quality of the unit has only improved, the price has dropped as computer parts have become less expensive (also newer units are mass produced in Asia).

Click Here to see more reviews about: Alesis SR16 Drum Machine

One of the most popular drum machines ever made, the Alesis SR16 Drum Machine has been used by everyone from songwriters to live performers to remix engineers as their drum machine of choice. It features a great selection of over 200 realistic, natural drum sounds, offered both in dry form and sampled with our quality digital reverbs. And Alesis' exclusive Dynamic Articulation feature enables a drum sound to change its tonal content as it's played harder--just like an acoustic drum--for truly realistic performances.
The SR-16 features 50 preset patterns that were actually played in by top studio drummers, not just programmed and quantized. The SR-16 also provides complete MIDI implementation, a footswitch input, flexible programming and editing features and velocity-sensitive pad buttons. It's easy to use so you'll be up and composing in minutes.
Dynamic Articulation Discerning ears will notice that each sound is actually a series of different samples; multiple dynamic-level samples and articulations are all built in so as you play harder and softer, the drum or cymbal changes its timbre, not just its volume. This engineered realism is known as Dynamic Articulation, an Alesis exclusive.
This results in sounds that respond accurately not only to dynamic changes, but also with the appropriate timbral and color changes you'd expect from their acoustic counterparts. You can play with or without reverb for different room sounds and enjoy a wide variety of rimshots, rim clicks and different stick-placement sounds on the cymbals. The Random Sample feature also ensures you don't get the same sound twice for further creative realism.
Specifications
Audio Outputs: 4 (2 stereo pairs)
Pads: 12 velocity sensitive (w/Dynamic Articulation)
Sample/DAC Bit Resolution: 16/18
Sounds: 233
Sounds Accessible via Pads: 12
Sounds Accessible via MIDI: 120
Polyphony: 16 voice
Panning: 7-position user programmable
Velocity Response: 8 loudness levels via pads, 127 via MIDI
Timing Resolution: 96 ppq
Time Signature Range: 1-128 beats per pattern
Tempo Range: 20-255 bpm
Notes/Patterns/Songs: 12,000/400 (200 user, 200 preset)/100
Kits: 50 user, 50 preset
MIDI Program Change Response: Kit
Sync: MIDI Clock/Song Position Pointer
Footswitch Jacks/Functions: 2; start/stop, count/A/B/fill
Other Features: Sound stacking, step editing, stereo samples with reverb and ambience
Dynamic Articulation: Modulates tone
Power: 9 VAC External Transformer, UL and CSA Approved
Dimensions: 9.25 x 1.5 x 6.5 inches (WxHxD)
Weight: 2.5 pounds

Get 45% OFF

Click here for more information about Alesis SR16 Drum Machine

Read More...

Korg KDM-2 True Tone Advanced Digital Metronome Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)but it doesn't do much more than the less-expensive Korg MA-30. That said, I like the KDM-2 quite a bit. It's an improvement on the KDM-1 (which I like very much also - it's just a more basic metronome), and similarly designed. The KDM-2 shares these features with the MA-30: tap-in beat; subdivided beats; 12 calibrated tuning notes (you can choose the exact tuning - A=440, 441, etc); mute button. The added KDM-2 features: son clave & rumba beats (3-2, and 2-3); choice of 4 different click sounds; LCD display; LED beat indicator; loud volume (I play trumpet & have no problem hearing the metronome), and tempo selection in standard metronomic increments (60, 63, 66, etc) in addition to +/- 1 beats (60, 61, 62, etc).
You should get the KDM-2 instead of the MA-30 if you need the extra latin beats, the different click sounds (at least one of which should cut through most loud playing, or possibly small ensemble volume) or the LED indicator (the light however doesn't seem as strong as that of the KDM-1). If these extras aren't enough, the MA-30 would be an excellent choice.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Korg KDM-2 True Tone Advanced Digital Metronome

The Korg KDM-2 is an easy-to-use, electric metronome that visually marks the tempo with remarkable accuracy, and delivers a powerful sound like never before.

Improved cylindrical resonator speaker This digital electric metronome delivers even clearer and more powerful sound, and Korg's acclaimed cylindrical speaker has been further enhanced with an improved resonator structure to ensure that it is easily heard. Even loud instruments will not overpower the unmistakable, clear sound of the Korg KDM-2. And with the KDM-2 you have the choice of selecting 3 different PCM sounds (cowbell/agogo/clave) for the beat, so you can choose which sound you want to compliment the instrument you're playing. The volume can also be adjusted to the most appropriate level. Since there's a PHONE jack built in to this electric metronome, you can connect a mini-plug (1/8") earphone, perfect for private practice.
Easy-to-see, large LED The START/STOP switch located on the top panel of the Korg KDM-2 blinks in two colors--red and green--providing for unmistakable visual indication of the tempo. The START/STOP switch is a great feature if you are looking to practice with a silent metronome.
A variety of beats cover even sophisticated rhythms From basic beats to variations like son clave and rumba clave, the KDM-2 contains a total of 19 beat patterns. You can set the tempo in any one of three ways. Full Step mode lets you adjust the tempo over a range of 30 through 252 in steps of one. Pendulum Step mode lets you set the tempo using the preset tempo settings, as on a mechanical metronome. and Tap Tempo lets you set the tempo by pressing the TAP switch at the desired interval.
Use the reference pitches to tune by ear Sound Out mode outputs a reference tone that you can use as a tuning guide. You can listen to any one of the twelve pitches from C4-B4. You can also adjust the A4 frequency (calibration) in a broad range from 410 Hz-480 Hz.
Memory backup function The KDM-2 provides a memory backup function that remembers the specified tempo, beat, calibration, and reference pitch, even when the power off.
Designed for stability and ease of use The large LCD screen on this electric metronome makes it easy to view the settings. An encoder-type TEMPO/CALIB dial and a Step Select switch provide quick and direct access to settings and functions. Featuring an original design that is compact yet stable, the KDM-2 is at home on your desk, your piano, or anywhere else.
Long battery life The KDM-2 is designed for long battery life. The electric metronome will continue marking an accurate tempo for approximately 120 hours of continuous use at a tempo of 120 beats per minute.
Three-Year Warranty Korg digital and electric metronomes purchased from a Korg USA authorized dealer now have a three-year warranty.
What's in the Box KDM2 Metronome, Four AAA Batteries, User's Manual

Get 20% OFF

Click here for more information about Korg KDM-2 True Tone Advanced Digital Metronome

Read More...

Korg PX5D Pandora Guitar and Bass Multi Effects Processor Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I've had the Pandora for two weeks now and I've used it extensively. So far, I am pleased that I bit the bullet and shelled out the money for this thing. It's loaded with all sorts of features, and most importantly, it prevents me from being turned off my instrument because of crappy sound (I am on vacation, about 7000 miles away from my beloved amps and mixers and doodads and geegaws).
But take note, if you are listening to this thing through mediocre headphones or earbuds, you will hear a very sub-par and overall tremendously frustrating sound. For example, my Sony earbuds that I would rate 8/10 for iPod listening makes the Pandora sound totally tinny- scoops out all the mids, boosts the uselessly high treble and muddies up the bass. You will sit there trying to dial in a usable tone cursing the paint off your walls.
On the other hand, I have a pair of Audio-Technica M50 studio monitor headphones (no product endorsement, just saying what works for me) that sounds fantastic with the Pandora. So I guess the moral of my story is to pair this headphone amp with headphones that have a flat EQ response.
Because the Pandora is marketed as a headphone amp doesn't mean you are confined to headphones. I plugged the Pandora into a cheap bass amp and my guitar actually sounded pretty good! I can't wait to plug it into a good sound system and let it scream. From what I've heard, people have had a lot of success with going direct into PA or going through guitar or bass amps.
As far as the effects go, they gave me pretty much all I need and much much more. I am overall impressed with the built in reverb and delay effects, and the distortion sounds very good also. Some of the effects work in stereo so you can get that left to right rotary speaker effect. On top of the effects that I use all the time (reverb, distortion, compression, etc.) there are some WACKY stuff in here that I really haven't been able to use except for a few laughs. The intelligent harmonizer holds some potential although the tracking has a tiny, barely noticeable but noticeable hesitation. But since I'm greedy and I like having the option of oodles of stuff even though I might not use them, I would rate the effects on the Pandora 9/10 (where 10 is reserved for OMG EVERYTHING IS SO GOOD)
Korg put a lot of amp/cab/effect combo presets onto the Pandora, and when I started out, I used "Linkin" for my distortion, "Pop" for clean chorusy stuff and "Fab4" for clean tones. I ended up being 10% dissatisfied with them, so I just made my own presets and now I am 99% satisfied. The tweaks weren't big, like dialing down the distortion and adding a touch of reverb to "Linkin" preset and killing the teeny OD on "Fab4" etc. Much like the effects, some of the presets are wacked out. There is a preset on there called "Ill" and I can't for the life of me figure out how to use it in a musical way. Another preset called "Fire" has a really cool fuzzed out sound for single note melodies but goes haywire when you start playing harmonies. It might work really nicely for Muse basslines and such.
One thing I like about this is the AUX input and how it can transcribe recordings to your desire. It has made learning new songs for vocals and guitar much more convenient. The bass canceler function seems to work pretty well, and I imagine it would come in really handy, although I am separated from my bass right now. Korg included a lot of drum loops and an option to add basslines to those drum loops for jamming and practice purposes, but I wouldn't build my career on those drum/bass loops... they can sound kinda cheesy.
The construction of the Pandora looks very solid. I was worried at first that the Pandora would be built like the Korg tuners, which are light plastic without much heft, but I was happy to find that the Pandora feels really rugged. The instruction manual is comprehensive and is multilingual (if you ever get the urge to learn how to talk about flangers in German or something...)! I've been using batteries to power mine since I didn't get a wall adapter, and I burned through a pair of AAs in a week and a half of thorough use.
Other than that, the thing comes with a mini version of Ableton Live, the adapter cable for the footswitches (not included, planning on getting one myself) and the USB cable. Korg even included little rubber pads so the little rectangle doesn't get pulled off the table.
Overall, very happy with the product. Cheers, Korg!
For people who don't want to read all of my drivel,
Pros:
Great sound with good listening devices
Lots of useful effects
Lots of useful amp and cabinet models
Good presets
Very utilitarian (backlight option for the screen, etc.)
Solid construction
Neutral:
Some effects and presets I would never use
Doesn't come with wall adapter
Small learning curve in navigating through the menu
Cons:
Adjusting volume balance between aux and input is finicky.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Korg PX5D Pandora Guitar and Bass Multi Effects Processor

Back in the 1990s, the first Korg Pandora placed its indelible stamp on the pocket multi-effects processor category. Today, Pandora is still king of the category. Today's highly-evolved Korg PX5D is your personal rehearsal hall, an all-hours amp shop, your own audio recording suite as well as your digital doorway to the modern studio. And best of all, the battery-powered PX5D still fits in your pocket, so your great sound is always with you.

Big for Its Size Despite its compact size, the Pandora PX5D is laid out with game-controller efficiency--so you can spend more time playing and less time wishing you were already playing! Modern and up to date, the PX5D serves double duty as a stereo USB audio interface, allowing you convenient access to audio recording software on your computer.
High-Quality "REMS" Based Effects Korg's "REMS" Modeling Technology has been widely acclaimed for its natural, authentic sound quality. A total of 180 effect types are available in the Pandora PX5, divided into seven categories that match the seven effect modules that are simultaneously available.
Dynamics This section includes everything from simple compression to advanced algorithms that can emulate a humbucking sound from a single coil pickup (or vice-versa); transform an electric guitar into an acoustic timbre, add a fretless character to any bass sound; plus a series of wahs and auto-wahs.
AMP Modeling In addition to some of the most popular and widely recorded amps, the PX5D multi-effects processor includes a number of rare and boutique amplifier models--everything from the ubiquitous VOX AC30 to a US Hi-Gain (think snakeskin) amp. A total of 15 guitar amps and 11 bass amps are all delivered with spot-on accuracy. Bass synth and Guitar Synth models are also featured in the PX5D.
Cabinet Simulations Matching the right amp to the right cabinet is a necessity for capturing a classic tone. But go ahead and mix and match to build your own custom "virtual" rig. From a single 8" tweed to a 4 x 15" mammoth, the PX5d has it all.
Modulation Effects You name it, Pandora has it--phasers, flangers, choruses, filter sweeps, U-Vibes, tremolos, intelligent pitch shifting, rotary speaker, auto-panning. Best of all, each effect can be tweaked to your own personal preference.
Delay Settings Five Delay effects--each with five variations relating to feedback amount--are available in this Pandora PX5D multi-effects processor. Delay time is conveniently set using the Tap key on the front panel and a versatile Reverse Delay is onboard.
Reverbs Eleven Reverb algorithms place the final ambience and sheen on your sound.
Noise Reduction Keep your sound clean--and silent in between songs.

100 Presets, 100 user programs Seventy Guitar Presets and Thirty Bass Presets are ready and waiting to get you started with your new Korg PX5D. For those who like to make their sound their own, 100 User Program location are available for storing your custom settings. Using the Software Editor Librarian provides faster, graphic editing and allows you to build up libraries of custom patches. A simple USB cable provides the connection to your computer.
Clean panel design for intuitive control With almost gamer styling, the PX5D is an easy-to-operate multi-effects processor. A four-way cursor to the left and a recessed dial to the right combine for easy navigation of the backlit LCD screen. For the amplifier traditionalist, dedicated thumb wheels across the top offer real-time control of Gain, Bass, Treble and Volume. Four Program Memory buttons keep your favorite programs close at hand! An adapter cable is included, allowing two optional footswitches to be connected to the PX5D for hands-free operation.
Drummer and bassist included 128 accurate and professional Rhythm & Bass groove patterns are built in to your Korg PX5D--including simple "click-track" style metronome beats. The Rhythm patterns have three variations, so you can find the one you like. Use the Tap key to set the tempo to anything from 40 to 240 Beats per Minute (BPM). Both Major and Minor bass lines are included with each groove, and you can set the Bass Key to any note. Up to sixteen patterns can be strung together into one of twenty chains--an excellent feature for writing a new tune, practicing a part or crafting that killer solo--in context!
The world outside Connect an MP3 player, CD, USB or other external audio source to the AUX IN jack and you can play along. Wrong key? Use the Key Transpose function to change the pitch of the song into any musical key. For the bassist, the PX5D multi-effects processor also contains a Bass Cancelling function that removes the bass sound from an external audio source so that you can play and hear your bass along with the song.
Repeat as necessary Phrase Training is a fun feature for learning difficult material or for working on solos. You can record up to 80 seconds of audio from any external source and play it back repeatedly (looped) at a slower speed--without changing the pitch. This is a great way to learn complex or rapid passages by ear, since you will be able to hear the phrase slowly. You can also record yourself chording along with the built-in rhythm and bass accompaniment, and then practice your soloing skills.
Digital USB doorway In its off hours, the Pandora PX5D moonlights as USB audio interface for all your computer needs, offering two-channel audio communication to and from your Mac or PC.
What's in the Box Korg PX5D, Owner's manual, Two AA alkaline batteries, Strap holder, CD-ROM, Footswitch adapter cable, Rubber feet

Get 47% OFF

Click here for more information about Korg PX5D Pandora Guitar and Bass Multi Effects Processor

Read More...