Using a D4 to control a DTXPress

FlamTap · Posted: Mon Feb 23, 2004 6:36 am Post subject: Using a D4 to control a DTXPress

Hi,

I just started working with electronic drums in the hopes that I can utilize them more easily in my one-man recording studio, since I can't play and monitor peaks, etc at the console at the same time, and I figure the eDum solution might be the ticket. However, as a lifelong acoustic drummer, I feel limited by only having two cymbal sounds (ride and crash) available on the used DTXpress I bought, without foresaking another pad for more cymbal sounds (alternate crash/bell sound, etc).

So, I have the opportunity to buy a used Pearl Rhythm Traveler with mesh heads and ddrum triggers, along with a used Alesis D4 unit. With the small size of that set, I can fit it in, along with the DTXPress pads on the rack, and gain some additional triggers.

Since the D4 has more inputs than the DTXPress, I was hoping to use the D4 for the additional inputs, and then feed the MIDI out of it to the DTXPress, thereby utilizing the Yamaha sounds which I prefer.

I've tried connecting the snare trigger to various inputs of the D4 and MIDI Out to the DTX MIDI In. The D4 indicates it's sending signals, but the DTX plays nothing (I'm not exactly sure what should be indicating MIDI reception on the DTX). I've checked that MIDI Communication is on correctly in the two according the their respective manuals, but still no audio out of the DTX. Am I trying to do something that can't be done? Question

Or, am I just trying the wrong approach? Question

I read a review where the D4 was listed as "somewhat MIDI friendly" and am now wondering if it's not really capable of being a proper MIDI controller for the DTX.

Any thoughts, insight and suggestions would be most welcome.

Thanks,

FlamTap