Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 9 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
3.0 (51)
$399.00
Guitar Center
3.0 (13)
$399.00 $349.00 $50.00 · All time low
Amazon
4.1 (1464)
$353.74 $349.00 $4.74 · All time low
Reverb
4.0 (21)
$319.95 New
$195.28 Used
Musician's Friend
3.0 (19)
$399.00
zZounds
3.5 (9)
$399.00
B&H
3.0 (4)
$399.00 $349.00 $50.00 · All time low
Thomann
4.0 (131)
$324.00 $321.00 $3.00 · All time low
Gear4Music
£267.00

Price History

Based on price data from 7 merchants for "Alesis SamplePad Pro". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Unleash your creativity with the Alesis SamplePad Pro, a groundbreaking percussion instrument that bridges the gap between traditional and electronic drumming. This versatile device offers the opportunity to add a unique electronic flair to your acoustic kit, or to compose custom drum tracks in the studio with ease. With its eight responsive pads and expansive onboard storage, you have the ability to load up to 32GB of samples via USB or SD card, customizing each sample to your liking with the built-in effects like reverb, pitch shifting, panning, and sensitivity controls.

The SamplePad Pro isn't just an electronic pad, it's a comprehensive sound station. Load up to 512 of your own samples, easily transferred from your computer via the convenient USB connection. The eight responsive pads offer plenty of room for precise and dynamic triggering of your samples, giving you command of your sound.

Take control of your samples with the fully customizable features of the SamplePad Pro. Adjust parameters such as reverb, pitch, panning, and sensitivity for each pad to craft your perfect sound. With the ability to tweak 10 preset kits or build up to 20 of your own from scratch, the possibilities are virtually endless.

Key Features:

  • Eight responsive pads for dynamic triggering of samples
  • Onboard storage for up to 32GB of samples, loadable via USB or SD card
  • Built-in effects for sample customization, including reverb, pitch shifting, panning, and sensitivity controls
  • Ability to load up to 512 of your own samples, transferred via USB connection
  • Fully customizable sound with adjustable parameters for each pad
  • Capacity to tweak 10 preset kits or create up to 20 of your own kits
  • Two additional trigger inputs, a kick input, and a hi-hat control input for setup expansion
  • USB MIDI, 5-pin MIDI, and an 1/8" audio input for syncing with tracks, modules, and more.

Owner's manual

Alesis SamplePad Pro User Manual

Product specs

Type Drum Trigger Pad
Pads 8 x Velocity-sensitive Blue LED Pads
Kits 10
Sounds Over 200
Analog Inputs 1 x 1/8" (aux in)
Analog Outputs 2 x 1/4" (main out)
Headphones 1 x 1/4"
Trigger Inputs 2 x 1/4" (pads 1/2), 1 x 1/4" (kick), 1 x 1/4" (hi-hat)
MIDI I/O In/Out/USB
USB 1 x Type B
Pedal Inputs 1 x 1/4" (footswitch)
Expansion SD/SDHC card slot (up to 32GB)
Formats 16-bit WAV
Power Source 9V DC power supply (included)
Height 1.5"
Width 15"
Depth 11.2"
Weight 5.8 lbs.

FAQs

How many sounds are included with the Alesis SamplePad Pro?

The Alesis SamplePad Pro comes with over 200 built-in sounds and 10 preset kits, providing a wide range of percussion and electronic drum options for various musical styles.

Can I expand the sound library on the Alesis SamplePad Pro?

Yes, you can expand the sound library by using an SD or SDHC card with a capacity up to 32GB to load your own 16-bit WAV samples, allowing for customization to suit your needs.

Are the pads on the Alesis SamplePad Pro velocity-sensitive?

Yes, the Alesis SamplePad Pro features 8 velocity-sensitive pads with blue LED lighting, allowing for dynamic and expressive playing.

What are the connectivity options for the Alesis SamplePad Pro?

The Alesis SamplePad Pro offers multiple connectivity options, including MIDI In/Out/USB, 1/8" aux input, 1/4" main outputs, and trigger inputs for additional pads, kick, and hi-hat.

Is the Alesis SamplePad Pro suitable for live performance?

Yes, the Alesis SamplePad Pro is designed for live performance with its durable build, easy-to-use interface, and extensive connectivity options, making it ideal for both stage and studio use.

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 PRO - demo and review by SPEARFISHER by SPEARFISHER

Alesis Samplepad PRO - demo and review by SPEARFISHER

SPEARFISHER

SPEARFISHER

Video thumbnail for Alesis SamplePad Pro Preset Kit Sound Demo by Greg Kocis

Alesis SamplePad Pro Preset Kit Sound Demo

Greg Kocis

Greg Kocis

Video thumbnail for Alesis Sample Pad Pro NAMM 2014 by DV247 Music Store UK TV

Alesis Sample Pad Pro NAMM 2014

DV247 Music Store UK TV

DV247 Music Store UK TV

Video thumbnail for Alesis SamplePad Pro apskats by ATTRADE MUSIC

Alesis SamplePad Pro apskats

ATTRADE MUSIC

ATTRADE MUSIC

Reviews

PROS

  • Affordable alternative to more expensive sampling pads

  • MIDI capability enhances versatility for recording and live use

  • Easy SD card integration for custom samples

  • 8 pads plus 4 external trigger inputs expand setup possibilities

  • Built-in reverb adds dimension to sounds

  • Compact size ideal for limited space settings

  • Intuitive menu navigation simplifies use

  • "Mute Groups" feature allows realistic play, like hi-hats

CONS

  • Significant background noise requires noise gate for clean audio

  • Inconsistent pad sensitivity affects performance accuracy

  • Long loading times for samples from SD card

  • Power button issues; inconsistent functionality

  • Crosstalk between pads can disrupt use

  • Poor built-in sound quality; relies heavily on custom samples

  • Poor build quality; reliability issues reported

  • Lack of auto-saving; requires manual saving of settings

  • No crosstalk setting adjustment available

  • Slow sample loading impractical for live performances

Owner Insights

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

Setup and maintenance

  • Cross-sticking on the Alesis SamplePad Pro is challenging due to its flat pad design, making it difficult to replicate traditional hi-hat techniques.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Some users experience sensitivity issues, needing to hit the pads hard for full velocity, even after adjusting settings.

    Source
  • The SamplePad Pro can serve as a MIDI controller to trigger sounds within Ableton, offering versatile integration for recording and live performance.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Adding a cheap cymbal trigger to external inputs enhances the setup; recommended brands include Pintech and Roland for hi-hat triggers.

    Source
  • Using a sustain pedal as a kick trigger can lead to early activation; a real kick trigger like the Roland KD-7 is suggested for better feel.

    Source

User experience

  • The SamplePad Pro can experience crosstalk from shoulder pads, and external trigger inputs may not handle the range from Roland triggers well.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Consider alternatives like Yamaha DTX-Multi 12 or Avatar HXW PD705 for better compatibility and features, as some users are frustrated with the SamplePad Pro’s limitations.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Amazon Marketplace and Warehouse can offer significant discounts on gear like the SamplePad Pro, allowing users to purchase it in like-new condition for reduced prices.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • To record directly to Ableton using the SamplePad Pro's default samples, an audio interface is required for either MIDI out or direct audio input.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Sampling all hits from preferred patches and organizing them in Ableton's drum rack allows for more personalized sound arrangement and flexibility.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Alesis SamplePad Pro review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Alesis SamplePad Pro is a budget-friendly, versatile sampling tool that expands creative options for musicians in live and studio settings. It offers eight pads, expandable triggering options, and a free sample pack. However, it lacks dedicated menu controls, making navigation cumbersome. While the pads are playable, they don't match the solid feel of competitors like Roland and Yamaha. Issues like crosstalk have been addressed via firmware updates. Despite its lightweight build, which might not endure heavy touring, its flexibility and price make it a compelling choice for those seeking an expressive sample player and controller.

Review of the Alesis Sample Pad Pro Drum Pad - DRUM! Magazine

drummagazine.com

The Alesis SamplePad Pro is a budget-friendly option for drummers venturing into the world of electronic pads. It offers eight velocity-sensitive pads, over 200 sounds, and the flexibility to add custom samples via an SD card. Its lightweight and compact design is a boon for gigging musicians. However, the unit faces criticism for pad sensitivity, cross-talk issues, and weak output volume, which could be problematic in live settings. While a firmware update addresses some concerns, users might still find limitations compared to higher-end alternatives. Overall, it's a cost-effective choice for beginners or those on a budget, but may not satisfy pro-level expectations.

4.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 20 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how II uses Alesis SamplePad Pro

II

Drummer

Sleep Token

...
Verified via YouTube

II is confirmed to use the Alesis SamplePad Pro, as seen in his live performances and his Drumeo session for the track "Dark Signs." A clear view of the SamplePad can be observed at the 2:13 mark in the Drumeo YouTube video titled "Sleep Token II Plays 'Dark Signs.'"

See how Paul Meany uses Alesis SamplePad Pro

Paul Meany

Singer, Keyboardist

MUTEMATH

...
Verified via Photo

In an Instagram post, Paul Meany is seen using the Alesis SamplePad Pro in his studio, highlighting its role in creating 90s-inspired beats.

See how RÜFÜS / Rufus Du Sol uses Alesis SamplePad Pro

RÜFÜS / Rufus Du Sol

Music Producer

RÜFÜS

...
Verified via YouTube

Can be seen at 1:04.

See how Eskmo uses Alesis SamplePad Pro

Eskmo

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

He can be seen using it during his NPR performance

See how French 79 uses Alesis SamplePad Pro

French 79

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

French 79 dans Passengers - ARTE Concert for example 33:04

See how Tennyson uses Alesis SamplePad Pro

Tennyson

Drummer, Keyboardist

...
Verified via YouTube

In their Ableton Loop presentation, we get a very clear look at the equipment Tennyson uses. We can see that Luke uses what looks like an Alesis Samplepad Pro (old model), and he also mentions that Tess has one as well.

See how sleep party people uses Alesis SamplePad Pro

sleep party people

...
Verified via YouTube

if you watch the drummer, at a point you can see the alesis samplepad pro

See how Hannah Ford uses Alesis SamplePad Pro

Hannah Ford

Drummer

Prince

...
Verified via Photo

As seen in Hannah's Instagram video.

See how Anthony Rodriguez uses Alesis SamplePad Pro

Anthony Rodriguez

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified via Photo

Anthony is playing the Alesis in his video showcasing the TOM HOLKENBORG percussion.

See how Anonymous Animal uses Alesis SamplePad Pro

Anonymous Animal

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

Joe from Anonymous Animal reviews the Alesis SamplePad in this video.

See how Kevin Boutot uses Alesis SamplePad Pro

Kevin Boutot

Drummer

The Acacia Strain

...
Verified via Photo

Kevin Boutot utilizes the Alesis SamplePad Pro during live performances, as evidenced by his Instagram post reflecting on his recent tour experiences.

See how Nils Hoffmann uses Alesis SamplePad Pro

Nils Hoffmann

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

In this Instagram video, we see Nils Hoffmann using the Alesis SamplePad Pro.

Album Usage

The Alesis SamplePad Pro has been featured on the following albums:

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 Pro, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

Show yours
rui_berton

rui_berton

Gear IQ 87

rob_ettinger

rob_ettinger

Gear IQ 110

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