Alesis SR16

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Drum machine

16-Voice polyphony
233 Realistic, natural stereo sounds
50 Preset + 50 user drum sets
Tempo adjustable from 20-255 bpm
4 Outputs (2 stereo outputs)
2 Connections for footswitch (start/stop, count/A/B/fill)
Large LCD display
Sync: MIDI Clock / Song Position Pointer
12 Velocity sensitive drum pads
Dimensions (L x H x D): 235 x 38 x 165 mm
Weight: 1.1 kg
Incl. power adapter

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Item number 102976
Sales Unit 1 piece(s)
Sound Synthesis Sample-based
Pads 12
Effects No
Bass No
Display Yes
MIDI interface 1x In, 1x Out
Number of analog outputs 4
Headphone Connector Yes
Mains Operation Yes
Battery Operation No
Footswitch connection 2
Extras None
Shape Desktop

€148

All prices incl. VAT

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in Drum Machines

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The return of the classic from Alesis

With the SR16, Alesis has brought back a classic drum machine in a refreshed edition, featuring 233 stereo sounds that can be triggered using 12 velocity-sensitive pads. Each sample responds dynamically to the playing intensity, with adjustable pitch, volume, and tonal character based on attack velocity, offering a high degree of versatility and expression, while two footswitch inputs expand its functionality further, enabling hands-free control for triggering and performance flexibility. Whether it is used for songwriting or live performances, the SR16 will stand out as a reliable and adaptable tool for musicians of all kinds.

Flexible MIDI control

The Alesis SR16 drum machine is fully MIDI controllable, with the necessary IN and OUT/THRU connections conveniently located on the back of the unit, alongside the two footswitch inputs - one for sending start or stop commands, and the other for triggering variations and fills. Also on the rear panel is a stereo AUX output, ideal for tapping signals directly when using the SR16 for both speaker playback and recording. In addition to the headphone output, the unit features two stereo 6.35mm (1/4") main outputs and is powered by a 12V power supply, which is included in the package.

Connections on the back of the Alesis SR16 drum computer

Intuitive and easy to handle

Thanks to its clear user interface, the Alesis SR16 allows patterns to be programmed quickly and easily with all of the essential data - such as preset or song name, quantisation, swing, click, tempo, and mode (record or play) - displayed on a single screen for a comprehensive overview of each pattern or song. Its compact size makes the SR16 a perfect fit for small home studios or live stages, offering convenient portability for any gig. Additionally, the SR16 gives users the option of loading patterns from data tapes via the tape in/out connections on the back, making it possible for nostalgic users to bring classic grooves back to life.

About Alesis

Alesis was founded in 1984 by Keith Barr in Hollywood, California, and has become one of the leading manufacturers of signal processors, drum machines, synthesizers, and other studio equipment. The company’s most successful products during its early years were the MIDIverb, the HR-16 drum machine, and the ADAT multitrack digital recorders. In 2001, Alesis was acquired by Numark owner Jack O’Donnell and is now part of his InMusic parent company alongside brands like AKAI, Denon, and many other well-known names in the audio manufacturing industry. Alesis has also been a major player in the field of e-drums for many years and offers a large choice of products in all price ranges.

Memory for up to 100 songs

The 50 preset patterns available on the Alesis SR16 were recorded unquantised by real drummers, delivering a natural feel that closely mimics live performance and is often hard to distinguish from hand-programmed beats; however, if tighter timing is preferred, it is also possible for all of the notes to be quantised. Each preset comes with variations and fills, allowing users to build full drum tracks for complete songs, while custom patterns, fills, and variations can also be programmed and saved with ease. The Copy function makes duplicating patterns or entire songs into new structures simple, and quick numeric entry on the display provides fast access to stored material. And as mentioned above, the tape in/out on the back allows patterns to be transferred to and from data tapes - bringing a vintage touch to a modern workflow for those who like a bit of nostalgia.

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4.3 / 5

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130 Reviews

Metronom on steroids.

Bogdan M. 04.07.2013

This machine was pretty good about 20 years ago when it was designed. The sound quality was great at that time. But this does not applies as of today, unfortunately.

Why you should buy this item?
1. If you want to practice with the drums.
2. If the quality sound is not the primary problem for you.
3. You do a small gigs and/or jams.
4. You are OK with metronome-like clicker without anything more in its mind.

When you should consider other products instead?
1. You are looking for more-less modern naturalistic sounds.
2. You are looking for more advanced pattern handling, like own tempo per pattern etc.
3. It is dark in the room you're giggin' and you want LCD backlit. :)

Good part is that this machine is pretty easily operated. It does remembers the patterns in place and you cannot ran out of memory as you can always dump the MIDI data out of the device. It is very easy to handle and all the interface is very intuitive. You can set the tempo with the pattern switch pedal just by tapping it. You can predict when your fills ends up between the pattern switching.

However, do not consider this item if you want realistic sounds. None of the sounds are realistic on this item. They are not bad, but simply not realistic and everyone will feel the drum machine robotics.

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Great Product great service

Jakerob 15.10.2020

fast deliver, good customer service, theres a reason why I keep coming back to buy here1

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alesis sr16

Ann B. 07.03.2015

a very good drum machine sound is very good better than most i had had one for 15 years this has just replaced it and fell right into place as if the other one never broke now that is what you call a good product well pleased and you will be to

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Classic Performer

Rocky NZ 31.05.2013

Still great sounds on the SR16.
I am new to this sort of module but after a couple of weeks it has become very easy to programme.
The manual gets you only 50% of the way.

I am really pleased with the simplicity and the quality of sound for live performance.
It works well by adding two foot pedals.

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Alesis SR16

Drum machine