Customer Reviews

Alesis USB Pro Kit Drumset with SURGE Cymbals

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This is the first drum kit without any rubber triggers at this price point. Or at twice the price. Real drum heads, real brass cymbals. And loaded with features. All the triggers except the kick are dual zone. The ride is dual-zone, bell and edge. The crash is chokeable. The mounting hardware is plenty rigid, much more sturdy than I expected. It's too soon to say how it will last, but since the joints and mounting collars are tightened with metal nuts and bolts (with drum key heads) I know there won't be any problems stripping plastic threading.

For an entry-level kit, it has quite a bit of upgrade potential too. The TriggeriO interface is also being used as standard equipment by other trigger makers (such as RET) so adding a larger snare or better toms will not be an issue. Feel free to mix 'n match. And since the stock triggers use real drum heads, switching to mesh heads is also an option.

It does take a bit of tuning. The default settings on the TriggeriO result in lots of cross talk. Be sure to punch in the recommended settings from the back of the manual immediately, or your initial experience will be disappointing. This really should have been taken care of at the factory. The BFD Lite demo software included is also underwhelming. You will need to budget for either BFD Pro or EZdrummer to get drum sounds that show this kit off to best advantage.

These are really quibbles though. Even after adding the cost of a little time and a few extra bucks for software, this kit is a great bargain.

Pros: 1) Rating of 5 stars based on price point, 2) Works well with Steinberg Cubase-4 and SONY Acid, 3) Works well with GM MIDI hardware and software drum kits, 4) Cymbols look impressive, 5) Excellent choice and value for beginners, 6) Runs well with Windows XP and Vista, 7) BFD2 (upgrade) is brilliant!

Cons: 1) Reputed quality is not "Pro" in comparison to best Roland V-Drum mesh pads and pedals, therefore, 3 out of 5 stars against all kits at any price, 2) Disappointing compatability with Roland SPD-20, 3) High-hat pedal not adjustable and seems "cheap", 4) No cymbol choke, 5) BFD Lite is minimal. It has only a few drum sounds and only one instance possible within a sequencer, 6) BFD2 is a pricey upgrade at $199, 7) Made in China. Is this thing toxic?

Final Thoughts: Great fun and very addictive. I can't stop myself from playing with this gear!

I returned this item after three days. A pad was failing, the Trigger I/O was glitchy and the dynamic response was unacceptable. Commissioning the high hat was difficult. (it never worked correctly) Standard sound cards that come with PC's will not be adequate for skilled drummers and the included BFD Lite software leaves much to be desired. I am thankful that Amazon has a fair return policy.