What Module to Buy?

[JLee]

With the edrum project progressing, albeit at a glacial pace, I realize that, sooner rather than later, I will need a module. It seems like DM5's are everywhere, but the fact that they cannot discern between open and closed hi hat sounds, etc. don't really put them in the running for me. I figure that if I just go with the cheapest option that doesn't give me what I want, I will regret it down the line.

I read that the TD 8, as well as the TD10 are great, and even give you the ability to play with brushes. I suppose the success of this part would also be contingent on just how well I locate and install the piezos. The DMPro has been mentioned as another option.

Also, are these fairly sturdy pieces of equipment that one should be able to logically buy off Ebay from a reputable seller? Or are they fragile enough so that they are likely to be damaged in short order?

The features I need (or more specifically, want)

- inputs for a dual zone snare, four single zone toms, 2 single zone cymbals, 1 double zone cymbal, hi hat controller, and bass trigger (it will be a double kick, but it does not look like that should matter as far as inputs are concerned). Looks like 12 inputs total.

- the ability to play with brushes would be very cool - though not essential


Any suggestions?


Thanks in advance

Jon Lee

[drummerdan]

Jon,

Like most things, it depends on the amount of money you want to spend and how you're going to use your drums. Roland has nice modules so I would suggest them. I like my TD-6 module. Of course, the ones you mention have more options, but I get along pretty nicely. Good sounds and you can tweak them pretty well. The hi-hat thing would make me stay away from the DM5 module. Especially if you're going to play live. It's better to pay a little more now than be disappointed in a few weeks/months and wished you would have bought something better. If you go cheap, then you're stuck with a disappointing module and would have to sell/trade it and then buy something else -again. Just a hassle. My momma always told me to pay a little bit more for something you want now than have to regret it and spend more in the long run. Good words to live by.

Be careful on ebay since these are high priced items and if you get burned, it will hurt a lot more. My general rule is that if you buy new, you can always send it back and get it replaced. That's not always the case (rarely, actually) on something used. Plus, the chances of getting ripped off is greater on ebay. Still, I know there's lots of great bargins there, just be careful.

Just my $.02 worth.

[rhjanes]

a dm5 does understand open, closed hats, just not the foot action of an open(no swoosh). The dmPro is the way to go there. dmpros have 16 inputs, about 4 are dual zones.
Brushes? only the TD10 or 20 understand brush strokes!! As far as I know, eventhing else has built in brush sounds, but you still play with a stick to activate the trigger. I've played dm5's, dmpros(have two), TD5, td7 and td10, and the yamahaha dtx. I'd get the td10 or pro only. or the td20 (major bucks).

[JLee]

Thanks for the responses. It is looking like the DMPRO is a good compromise between a reasonable price and the features I would like.

[tcraw1010]

I still think you should check out the Roland TD8 and the new TD12.




TOM

[rhjanes]

check them all out. also, check on ebay (careful) for a deal on used stuff.

[HiString]

Jon,

In reference to the DM-Pro as per the other thread.....................

A quick look at the Alesis site shows that they are only listing the DM-5 and SR-16 in drum products, further searching took me to their "Manual D/load" page and the DM-Pro is in the "Discontinued Items" section. :o

:cool:

[rhjanes]

yes, alesis got into some financial difficulties. I've heard that production of DB5 and DBPro's have stopped. You can find them new at places, or used on ebay. Alesis is supposed to be re-grouping back to studio electronics.

[Stoovey]

I've got a TD-8. For the price, I think it's better than the TD-10. It's like 1/2 the cost of the TD-10 and the functionality and sound is pretty much the same, just not as many "tweeking" capabilities. I think it looks cleaner too.

I've had DM4, DM5, and DMPro modules before. The 4 and 5 are easiest to use, while the Pro has the most (and best) sounds...and has much more sound modification capabilities. But for the money? You'd be better off getting the TD-8. Much easier to use overall.

[WacoKid]

I would look for a TD-10. They are a little pricey, but I've recently been recording with mine and I've finally realized the full potential of it. You won't be dissapointed.

[drummergirl]

JLee - you don't mention your budget or what you are planning to use the kit for (gigging, private practice, recording, etc.). You might have a look at the Roland TD-12. It would have all the inputs you need plus it does a fantastic job with brushes. It's a bit pricey, but it will serve you well in the long run.

If cost is a concern, check out the TD-8 (or the 10). I use a TD-8 on an RET kit at my church and it does a fabulous job. Brushes don't work on it, but there is a 'brush-like' kit on it that might work for some situations. The TD-12 would surpass it by far in this area. I would be a bit hesitant to score one off of ebay, unless you have the utmost confidence in the seller.

Also, the hi-hat sounds are much better from the TD-20 and the TD-12. I'm using a Roland TD-8 pedal with the hi-hat and I can get several sounds out of hat including the sloshy in-betweens. You can also adjust the sensitivity to make it fit your playing style.

Let me know if you have any more questions about the modules.

[JLee]

Drummergirl,

The kit would be used almost exclusively for practice, but I want as much realism as I can get. Price is somewhat of an issue, only because I will not be taking the kit out of the house very much, so I don't need top of the line equipment.

Currently, I am leaning toward either the DMPro or the TD 6. Most of the other models mentioned seem to represent a bit of over kill for what I intend to do.

[drummergirl]

JLee - overkill, indeed. The TD-6 would serve you well, but you might even save a few more bucks and go for the TD-3.

[JLee]

My understanding is that the TD 3 will not read hi hat pedal action. Meaning it will only "Know" open and closed, and not a rhythm on the hi hat pedal. That would be a drawback for me.

Thanks for the response.

[drummergirl]

Good point. The TD-3 does have some variance to it but it is very very minimal. The TD-6V will give you more of what your looking for with the hi-hat. I have played around with both modules and I like the actual sounds on the TD-3 a little more, but the COSM effects on the TD-6V would probably be more beneficial to you.

[JLee]

Thanks

[punkrocksmysocks]

i dont think the td6 has enough inputs for what you stated earlier.

[JLee]

I am about the least informed poster on this subject, with my experience with Edrums coming only from playing them at GC's, but why would the number of inputs come into
play?

I will be using a dual zone ride cymbal, a crash cymbal, 8",10"12"14" toms (single zone), a 13" dual zone snare, and a kick pedal (bought from GN's own DBautista) and a hi hat controller. That adds up to 10 inputs- and I am pretty sure a TD6 has 12 or 13 - NO?

[drummergirl]

The TD-6 has 9 inputs, but two are stereo so technically there are 11.

[JLee]

Then I should be okay with it, as long as I don't decide to add any e-gongs or anything like that.