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Alesis DM5

^# 5

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$80.00

4.0 (15)

2 Critic Reviews

3 Reviews

This product is Vintage or Discontinued

Find out who is using Alesis DM5

2 community setups

2 wishlisted

42 saved

Page last updated Jul 03, 2026

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4.0 (10)

$80.00 4 available Used

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Description

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DM5 is a classic Alesis drum-sound module for drummers, programmers, producers, and anyone else who needs great-sounding drums and percussion. DM5 contains 540 stereo, 18-bit drum sounds that can be assigned to any of the 21 programmable drumsets. 12 trigger inputs enable DM5 to be used with all Alesis drum and cymbal pads, SURGE Cymbals, and the triggering devices from most other major manufacturers.

DM5 also has full MIDI I/O so it can be used as a sound source for composing, programming, and sequencing with a wide variety of controllers including keyboards, pad triggers, MPCs, and more.

Alesis' exclusive Dynamic Articulation™ technology modifies sample sounds so they change as you play them. 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. Our Random Sample feature also ensures you don't get the same sound twice for further creative realism.

Built-in Alesis studio effects including reverb and ambiance ensure that you can send a complete, finished sound to the PA, recording system, and your headphones with no additional processing.

Product specs

Brand	Alesis
Model	DM5 Electronic Drum Module
Finish	Black
Year	2000s
Categories	Electronic Drum Modules

FAQs

What are the main features of the Alesis DM5 drum module?: The Alesis DM5 features Dynamic Articulation for realistic sound variation, 12 trigger inputs, and over 500 drum and percussion sounds. It also offers ultra-fast trigger-to-MIDI conversion and multiple programmable parameters for each trigger.
How many outputs does the Alesis DM5 have?: The Alesis DM5 has two Main and two Aux audio outputs on the rear panel, along with a headphone output on the front panel for monitoring.
Is the Alesis DM5 suitable for live performances?: Yes, the Alesis DM5 is suitable for live performances due to its fast trigger-to-MIDI conversion and extensive sound library, allowing for dynamic and responsive play in various settings.
Can the Alesis DM5 be used with acoustic drum triggers?: Yes, the Alesis DM5 can be used with acoustic drum triggers, making it a versatile choice for drummers looking to expand their setup with electronic capabilities.
What kind of power supply does the Alesis DM5 require?: The Alesis DM5 requires a standard 9V AC power supply, which is typically included with the module.

Videos

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Julien Jacquier

HART PRODIGY & ALESIS DM5

Julien Jacquier

The 20 drum kits of the Alesis DM5 Drum Module - How does it sounds? (quick test)

Jean Ahizp

ION Audio Drum Rocker & Alesis DM5: Demo

ION Audio

Alesis DM5 Demo.mpg

IplayMusic2

Alesis DM5 Quick Demo

Scott Wegner

Alesis DM5 & Bateria Royalty Edrums (DEMO)

Royalty Hybrid Drums

Alesis DM5 & Staff Drum VWS9 (Realistic) & Addictive Drums 2 DEMO

Royalty Hybrid Drums

Alesis DM5 Pro Kit Demo

rdub205

Reviews

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PROS

Captures classic drum sounds ideal for retro music production
Compatible with various controllers for versatile setup options
Offers 540 stereo, 18-bit drum samples for diverse sound creations
Dynamic Articulation technology enhances sound realism
Multiple trigger inputs for easy interfacing with sequencers and MIDI
Features like reverb and ambiance add to sound quality
Can be used with a range of Alesis and other manufacturer's pads
Favored in professional music productions between 1997-2004
Manual available online for easy reference and setup

CONS

Cymbal sounds may not meet everyone's expectations
Potential issues with memory storage, possibly due to battery
Not the most realistic drum kit for current standards
Sliding issue without additional modification (e.g., rubber feet)

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Alesis DM5.

Features and functionality

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The DM5 module allows for customizable sounds, enhancing the cymbals and drum pieces through tweakable settings.
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Software and compatibility

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The DM5 supports MIDI out capabilities, which can be expanded using a Strymon MIDI HUB for enhanced computer integration.
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Comparisons

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While newer models like the Nitro Mesh offer updated features, the DM5's tweakable sound bank remains a notable advantage for sound customization.
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Use cases and applications

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The DM5 can directly connect to a DAW via stereo out, beneficial for those interested in recording or digital production.
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Setup and maintenance

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The DM5's internal battery requires unsoldering, with a recommendation to replace it with a battery holder for easier future maintenance.
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Replacing the battery involves careful soldering; excessive heat may damage components, suggesting professional assistance if unsure.
Source

Build quality

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The battery is spot welded, making it challenging to replace without a tabbed battery or significant soldering skills.
Source

Critic Reviews

Alesis DM5

soundonsound.com

The Alesis DM5 is a budget-friendly electronic drum kit that excels in sound quality and ease of use, thanks to its well-regarded DM5 module. It's perfect for home practice and studio use, offering a plethora of drum and percussion sounds. However, its lightweight hardware and noisy playing surfaces may disappoint serious drummers seeking durability and playability. While the kit's compact design and included accessories make it a convenient starter choice, the fragile construction and limited bounce of the pads could be improved. Overall, it's a solid entry-level option with room for enhancement.

neutral

Full Review

Alesis DM5

soundonsound.com

The Alesis DM5, an updated successor to the D4, brings a wealth of new sounds and features while retaining the strengths of its predecessor. It impresses with its extensive library of over 550 sounds, including dynamic ethnic and dance samples, and offers a user-friendly experience for both MIDI and drum pad users. The Random sound mode adds variety, enhancing its appeal for contemporary music creators. However, it lacks proper real-time pitch bend functionality, and its new data wheel design may not appeal to everyone. Despite these minor drawbacks, the DM5's sound quality and versatility make it a valuable addition to any sequencer setup.

positive

Full Review

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4.0 out of 5

Based on 3 Reviews and 15 Ratings

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alicegrimaude

116

about 6 years ago

Realistic? No. Retro fun? Absolutely.

These are the drum sounds used in Mega Man X5, Tales of Destiny, Valkyrie Profile, Golden Sun 2, Tales of Symphonia, Mario Golf: Toadstool Tour and many of Motoi Sakuraba's soundtracks in the time period between 1997-2004. Getting that out of the way for anyone obsessively searching and looking for confirmation.

This isn't a very realistic drum kit nowadays, but it's still massive fun for making retro music or just sampling drums from in that retro style.

Roles:

Composer

Genres:

Stage & Screen Metal Soundtrack

bubbajones

1312

about 11 years ago

a classic Alesis drum-sound module for drummers, programmers, producers, and anyone else who needs great-sounding drums and percussion

DM5 also has full MIDI I/O so it can be used as a sound source for composing, programming, and sequencing with a wide variety of controllers including keyboards, pad triggers, MPCs, and more.

Built-in Alesis studio effects including reverb and ambiance ensure that you can send a complete, finished sound to the PA, recording system, and your headphones with no additional processing.

Roles:

Guitarist Bassist Music Producer

Genres:

Electronic Electronica