Tips On External Triggering From Acoustic Drums; Output Sensitivity; Mounting - Alesis D4 Quick Setup Manual

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FROTN ACOUSJTC DRUMS
When triggering from an acoustic drum, that is using a contact
pick up (transducer) mounted to the head or shell, the same
general set-up procedures and parameter principles of triggering
from pads apply. However, due to extreme head vibrations and
resonance of acoustic drums, keeping the "factors" under control
is considerably more difficult. These tips should help you in
eliminating potential problems.
There are several things to consider when purchasing
transducers (triggers), and when mounting them to your drums.
Output Sensitivity
The difference in output levels between transducers is
considerable. While a really "hot" trigger might work great on
the snare, it may not work as well on a bass drum. For example,
a high sensitivity trigger will detect the softer "grace" notes on a
snare drum and provide the best tracking in a tight pressed roll.
On a bass drum however, because that same trigger is so
sensitive, it may be over-driven due to the sheer velocity of each
impact from the beater on the head. Over-driving the trigger can
allow it to detect every slight vibration as you hit the bass drum.
This results in double triggering and contributes to cross talk
problems. It can also reduce the life of the trigger itself.
When considering trigger output sensitivity towards
applications, generally these tips will apply.
1. Use "hotter" triggers for shell mounting. Sensitive triggers
can detect signals through the shell more accurately than
others.
2. For direct head mounting use less sensitive triggers. When
possible use a trigger that contains a built-in sensitivity
adjustment There are several types available.
Mounting
One of the most important aspects of triggering is mounting. For
any trigger to work properly it must be correctly mounted to the
drum. Always use some type of a foam tape, and make certain
the trigger is firmly mounted with little or no movement. In
addition to forming a solid foundation for the trigger, the foam
tape also acts as a shock absorber which helps to deter double