SR18 : Using it for real gigs

So you've read in the Internets how better is Alesis SR16 (predecessor) and now being scared, and therefore have some doubts to buy SR18? Well, I was the same. :-)

What I really like:

1. Each pattern/song has own default tempo!

2. Sounds are really great, not "nintendo'ish" and sounds much more like human is playing. Especially, if you record the pattern with the real drum kit (electric).

3. Percussion mode.

4. Tempo and switching knob. This this was simply missing in the SR16!

5. Awesome effects for the drums.

6. Possibility to connect another instrument through (I play also bass).

7. Glowing display is just great when your gig is in the dark.

What I don't like very much (but survivable):

1. Playing pads. They are by no means better than in previous model SR16. Now they are fixed and does not canceling previous sound and does not sound triple-piano silent (PPP) when you really hitting them, like in SR16. However, you still have challenge to let it sound real.

2. MIDI channels are somewhat oddly set. When I connect my Roland V-Drums TD-20 Pro, they trigger "who knows what", but what I do expect. For that reason I had to create my own MIDI setup only for this machine. But once you've done it, it works fine.

3. You don't have much drums to use in the current set. I cannot squeeze several crash cymbals, bell, ride, toms etc. But it is enough for the rhythm and simple fills.

Myths, you could hear in the Internet:

1. Myth: Switching fills between patterns is unpredictable. Reality: They do work just like in SR16 with no differences.

2. Myth: Is very difficult to use for gigs and live play. Reality: Just like SR16, except you can much faster switch between patterns and they even do remember their default tempos!

3. Myth: It is very difficult to handle. Reality: It is as same as SR16, except it just has more features, therefore more things needs to be known. Hint: read the documentation. :-)

4. Myth: It is too expensive for its value. Reality: In fact, if you compare to other machines within its class, the prices of other devices are much higher, while feature-wise they are not as SR-18.

Verdict:

1. Totally worth its price.

2. Awesome for gigs.

3. Easily replaces your lousy drummer. :-P