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Description

Unleash your creativity with the Alesis SamplePad Multi-Pad Sample Instrument, a dynamic tool designed to seamlessly integrate into any setup. Combining simplicity with versatility, this compact device is perfect for musicians looking to expand their sonic palette without overwhelming complexity. The SamplePad features four velocity-sensitive trigger pads that respond naturally to your touch, making it an intuitive choice for both beginners and seasoned percussionists.

Explore a rich library of 25 acoustic and electronic sounds, all easily navigable through the bright LCD display. Whether you're crafting a new beat or enhancing your live performance, the SamplePad offers a straightforward interface that encourages experimentation. It's compact enough to fit into any gig bag, yet robust enough to withstand the rigors of the road, making it an ideal companion for both stage and studio environments.

With its user-friendly design, you can quickly and effortlessly load your own samples via the SD card slot, allowing for endless customization and creativity. Whether you're aiming to augment your acoustic kit or build a standalone electronic setup, this versatile pad delivers endless possibilities.

Key Features:

  • Four velocity-sensitive trigger pads
  • 25 pre-loaded acoustic and electronic drum sounds
  • Bright, easy-to-read LCD display
  • SD card slot for loading custom samples
  • Compact and portable design
  • Seamless integration into existing setups

Product specs

Brand Alesis
Model SamplePad
Finish Black, White
Year 2000s
Categories Percussion Pad Controllers

FAQs

What sounds are included in the Alesis SamplePad?

The Alesis SamplePad comes with 25 built-in percussion and electronic drum sounds, providing a versatile range of tones for various musical styles.

Can I add my own samples to the Alesis SamplePad?

Yes, you can load your own samples onto the Alesis SamplePad using a standard SD card, allowing for unlimited sound possibilities.

What sample formats does the Alesis SamplePad support?

The Alesis SamplePad supports 16-bit Mono WAV files with sample rates of 48, 44.1, 32, and 22 kHz.

How many pads does the Alesis SamplePad have?

The Alesis SamplePad features four responsive pads, which are designed to deliver a natural feel and accurate triggering.

Is the Alesis SamplePad suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Alesis SamplePad is compact and versatile, making it ideal for live performances where space and quick access to a variety of sounds are important.

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Alesis SamplePad Pro Review by Sweetwater Sound

Video thumbnail for Alesis SamplePad Pro Review by Sweetwater Sound by Sweetwater

Alesis SamplePad Pro Review by Sweetwater Sound

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Video thumbnail for Alesis SamplePad 4 Demo by Guitar Center

Alesis SamplePad 4 Demo

Guitar Center

Guitar Center

Video thumbnail for Alesis SamplePad by AlesisVideo

Alesis SamplePad

AlesisVideo

AlesisVideo

Video thumbnail for Alesis SamplePad Review - Things to like and things to hate by Ching

Alesis SamplePad Review - Things to like and things to hate

Ching

Ching

Video thumbnail for Alesis Samplepad Drums/Percussion Pad Overview | Full Compass by Full Compass

Alesis Samplepad Drums/Percussion Pad Overview | Full Compass

Full Compass

Full Compass

Video thumbnail for Alesis Sample Pad Drum/Loop Cover by MATTHEW WALMSLEY

Alesis Sample Pad Drum/Loop Cover

MATTHEW WALMSLEY

MATTHEW WALMSLEY

Reviews

PROS

  • Supports 44.1kHz sample rate, ideal for studio-quality sound

  • Built-in reverb for added sound customization

  • Offers five sample locations, including bass drum trigger input

  • Low noise stereo outputs, perfect for studio recordings

  • Minimal cross talk, even with aggressive playing

  • Easy to load samples via SD card

  • External trigger input supports various configurations

  • Straightforward setup with a user-friendly interface

  • Inexpensive entry-level sampling pad with solid performance

CONS

  • Limited to eight kits, which may restrict sample organization

  • Samples need to be in mono format

  • No loop function or advanced trigger modes

  • Some units may ship with incompatible power adapters for the US

  • Cannot rename kits, making organization cumbersome

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Alesis SamplePad Multi-Pad Sample Instrument.

Setup and maintenance

  • Ergonomics can be challenging; setting up with clamps and stands for additional pads and cymbals requires careful arrangement for optimal playability.

    Source
  • When switching preset kits using samples from an SD card, it takes around 10 seconds for the kit to load.

    Source
  • Positioning the Alesis SamplePad Pro on a sturdy Gibraltar stand reduces crosstalk by increasing the stiffness and mass of the setup.

    Source

Comparisons

  • For nightly gig use, the Roland SPD-SX is recommended over the SamplePad Pro for its sturdier build and better functionality.

    Source
  • For mobile jamming, a low volume acoustic kit with a Meinl boombox is preferred over the SamplePad 4 due to sound quality and ease of setup.

    Source
  • The Yamaha DTX-Multi 12 and Avatar HXW PD705 are considered potential alternatives due to frustrations with the SamplePad Pro's crosstalk and sensitivity issues.

    Source

User experience

  • Some users experience subtle pad triggering due to vibrations, indicating potential sensitivity to external movement.

    Source
  • Practice pads like the SamplePad Pro are seen as limited for transitioning to acoustic or full electronic kits, highlighting the need for additional components for a realistic setup.

    Source
  • Some owners report difficulties with sustain pedals triggering the bass drum sound in reverse, suggesting compatibility issues with pedal polarity.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • The SamplePad Pro can be run through a guitar amp, offering flexibility in setup for performances.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The SamplePad Pro utilizes an SD card for sample storage, requiring conversion via an Alesis program, but no additional software purchase is necessary.

    Source
  • The SamplePad Pro has been critiqued for its sensitivity, requiring hard hits to achieve full velocity, which may impact playability and responsiveness.

    Source
  • The SamplePad Pro's external trigger inputs are noted for limited range, especially with higher-end Roland triggers.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The SamplePad 4 is favored for tracking into DAWs like Ableton, despite crosstalk issues, due to its affordability and ease of post-production editing.

    Source
  • Transportability and quick setup are major concerns; acoustic kits with mute pads may offer better room sound for jamming than the SamplePad 4.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Adding a Roland CY-6 or Lemon cymbals from Alibaba can improve the hi-hat trigger experience, offering better compatibility than higher-end models.

    Source
  • Users recommend adding a Pintech cymbal trigger and a cheap keyboard sustain pedal using a 1/4" TS cable with a right-angle plug for enhanced setup options.

    Source

4.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 10 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
nerfmophix

Love it

Used for triggering primarily drum samples live.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Disclosure uses Alesis SamplePad Multi-Pad Sample Instrument

Disclosure

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

This Alesis SamplePad Multi-Pad Sample Instrument can be spotted in a photo titled "New toys" shared by Disclosure. The duo uses gear like this one to trigger samples during their live show.

See how Giorgia Angiuli uses Alesis SamplePad Multi-Pad Sample Instrument

Giorgia Angiuli

Keyboardist, Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

Alesis SamplePad Multi-Pad Sample Instrument is in this post.

See how Daktyl uses Alesis SamplePad Multi-Pad Sample Instrument

Daktyl

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

In this picture on Daktyl's Instagram you can see his home studio set up which includes an Alesis SamplePad Multi-Pad Sample Instrument.

See how Kris Mazzarisi uses Alesis SamplePad Multi-Pad Sample Instrument

Kris Mazzarisi

Drummer

LMFAO

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video he talks about his Alesis SamplePad Multi-Pad Sample Instrument.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Alesis SamplePad Multi-Pad Sample Instrument, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

Show yours
manu_hibe

manu_hibe

Gear IQ 75

manu_hibe

manu_hibe

Gear IQ 75

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