Alesis Command Mesh SE Kit Electronic Drum Set User Manual

1. Introduction

The Alesis Command Mesh SE Kit is an advanced electronic drum set designed to provide a natural and responsive drumming experience. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting your drum kit.

Key Features:

• Responsive Mesh Pads: Features a 10-inch dual-zone mesh snare drum, three 8-inch dual-zone mesh tom pads, and an 8-inch mesh kick drum for realistic feel and quiet practice.
• Dynamic Cymbals: Includes a 10-inch hi-hat, 10-inch crash cymbal with choke, and a 10-inch ride cymbal with choke for expressive play.
• Command Advanced Drum Module: Equipped with 74 pre-set kits, 671 high-quality drum sounds, and 120 built-in play-along tracks.
• Custom Sound Integration: Allows loading of custom drum samples via USB thumb drive.
• Connectivity: USB/MIDI connectivity for use with computer-based recording software (DAW) and virtual instruments (VST).
• Sturdy Rack System: Mounted on a durable 4-post adjustable rack, designed for stability and easy storage.
• Included Accessories: Comes with a cable snake, drum sticks, drum key, kick pedal, hi-hat control pedal, and power supply.

2. Setup Guide

Follow these steps to assemble and connect your Alesis Command Mesh SE Kit.

2.1 Unpacking and Rack Assembly

Carefully remove all components from the packaging. Assemble the 4-post rack according to the diagrams provided in the quick start guide. Ensure all clamps are securely tightened to prevent movement during play.

Image: Diagram illustrating the various components of the Alesis Command Mesh SE Kit, including the drum module, mesh pads, cymbals, pedals, and the 4-post rack.

2.2 Pad and Cymbal Installation

1. Attach the 10-inch dual-zone mesh snare drum to the rack.
2. Mount the three 8-inch dual-zone mesh tom pads to their respective positions on the rack.
3. Install the 10-inch hi-hat, 10-inch crash, and 10-inch ride cymbals. Ensure they are positioned comfortably for playing.

2.3 Pedal Connection

1. Place the 8-inch mesh kick drum tower in front of the rack. Attach the included kick pedal to the kick drum tower.
2. Position the hi-hat control pedal on the floor near the hi-hat cymbal.

Image: Close-up view of the 8-inch mesh kick pad with the included single kick pedal attached. The pad is designed to accept double pedals (sold separately).

2.4 Module and Cable Connections

1. Mount the Command Advanced Drum Module to the rack using the provided clamp.
2. Use the included cable snake to connect all drum pads, cymbals, and pedals to the corresponding inputs on the drum module. Refer to the labels on the module and cables for correct connections.
3. Connect the power adapter to the module's power input and then to a power outlet.
4. For audio output, connect headphones to the PHONES jack or connect external speakers/amplifier to the L/MONO and R OUTPUTS.

Image: Rear view of the Alesis Command Advanced Drum Module's control panel, highlighting the various input and output ports including USB MIDI, MIDI In/Out, Tom 4, Crash 2, L/Mono Outputs, Aux In, and Phones.

3. Operating Instructions

This section details the basic operation of your Alesis Command Mesh SE Kit.

3.1 Powering On and Kit Selection

1. Press the POWER button on the drum module to turn it on.
2. Use the UP and DOWN buttons or the large data dial to navigate through the 74 pre-set drum kits.
3. Press ENTER to select a kit.

Image: Close-up of the Alesis Command Advanced Drum Module's control panel, showing the display, navigation buttons, data dial, and various function buttons.

3.2 Playing Along with Tracks

The module includes 120 built-in play-along tracks.

1. Press the SONG button to enter song mode.
2. Use the UP and DOWN buttons or the data dial to select a track.
3. Press START/STOP to begin playback.
4. Adjust the tempo using the TEMPO button and data dial.

3.3 Customizing Sounds and Recording

• Sound Customization: The module allows for extensive sound editing. Refer to the full user manual (available online) for detailed instructions on adjusting individual drum and cymbal parameters.
• USB Sample Import: Connect a USB thumb drive to the module's USB port to import your own WAV samples.
• Performance Recording: Use the RECORD button to capture your drumming performances directly to the module.

3.4 External Connectivity

• USB MIDI: Connect the module to a computer via the USB MIDI port for use with digital audio workstations (DAW) and virtual instrument software (VST). This allows for recording MIDI data and triggering software sounds.
• MIDI In/Out: Use standard 5-pin MIDI cables to connect to other MIDI devices.
• Aux Input: Connect an external audio source (e.g., smartphone, MP3 player) to the AUX IN jack to play along with your favorite music.

4. Maintenance

Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your Alesis Command Mesh SE Kit.

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the drum module, pads, and cymbals. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Mesh Heads: The mesh heads are durable but can be replaced if damaged. Consult the Alesis support website for replacement parts and instructions.
• Cable Management: Keep cables organized and free from kinks or excessive tension to prevent damage.
• Storage: When not in use for extended periods, store the kit in a dry, temperate environment. The foldable rack design allows for more compact storage.

5. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your drum kit.

5.1 No Sound or Intermittent Sound

• Check Connections: Ensure all cables from pads, cymbals, and pedals are securely connected to the correct inputs on the drum module.
• Volume Levels: Verify that the Master Volume knob on the module is turned up and that your headphones or external speakers are powered on and have their volume adjusted.
• Pad Sensitivity: If a specific pad or cymbal is not responding, check its connection and the sensitivity settings within the drum module.

5.2 Kick Pad Response Issues

If the kick pad does not respond consistently, especially when striking the center:

• Beater Position: Ensure the kick pedal beater strikes the center of the kick pad. Adjust the pedal's beater length or angle if necessary.
• Pad Sensitivity: Increase the sensitivity setting for the kick drum within the module's utility menu.
• Physical Inspection: Inspect the kick pad's mesh head and internal components for any visible damage or obstruction.

5.3 Hi-Hat Control Issues (e.g., half-closed not sounding)

If the hi-hat pedal's half-closed position or other nuances are not registering correctly:

• Pedal Connection: Ensure the hi-hat control pedal is fully plugged into the correct input on the module.
• Calibration: Many electronic drum modules require hi-hat pedal calibration. Refer to the full user manual for specific calibration steps for the Command Advanced Drum Module.
• Software Settings (when using MIDI): If using the kit with computer software (e.g., BFD Player, EZdrummer), ensure the hi-hat settings within the software are correctly configured for your Alesis kit. Check for software updates as these often include bug fixes for compatibility.

5.4 Rack Stability

If the drum rack components feel loose or rotate during play:

• Tighten Clamps: Re-check and securely tighten all clamps and wing nuts on the rack system.
• Level Surface: Ensure the drum kit is placed on a flat, stable surface.

6. Specifications

7. Warranty and Support

For detailed warranty information, please refer to the official Alesis website or the warranty card included with your product. Alesis provides customer support for product assistance.

• Official User Manual (PDF): For comprehensive instructions and advanced features, download the full user manual from the Alesis website or via this direct link: Alesis Command Mesh SE Kit User Manual PDF
• Customer Support: Contact Alesis customer support for technical assistance, troubleshooting, or service inquiries. Visit the Alesis Store on Amazon for more information and support resources.