Want to replace TD9/TD6 combo with cheaper trigger only module - Advice please!

[ohlarikd]

I am looking to sell my TD9 and TD6 since I am severely underutilizing them. I use Superior Drummer, so I am only using MIDI OUT on the modules. I figure I can sell them and get a 'trigger only' brain such as the Alesis Trigger I/O (and slightly cheaper rebranded ddrum DDTI). The Roland trigger interfaces seem to be more expensive with less inputs.

I have no plans to use this setup out of my house, so using Superior and a PC is fine for my situation, so the reliability and built in sounds of a TD module are not necessary.

Is the Trigger I/O the best option? Is the ddrum version any different? The Alesis rack version costs more due to the built in sounds capability I guess, so that is not so attractive for me.

Hellfire?

Thanks!

[fulrmr(Daniel)]

IMO if a TMI is all that you need.....MegaDrum is the way to go. It's the least expensive option with the most versatility and it supports all your Roland gear plus most others. I wouldn't worry with the "learning curve" as any new platform will come with one of these. Just contact angr77 he's the "MD Guru" and has been more that happy to walk folks through any challenges they might face.

[ohlarikd]

Daniel - the megadrum is cheaper than a Trigger I/O? My 7 toms are all single zone, but I still may need two I/Os for a total of say $300.

[angr77]

Daniel, confess that you are a bit tempted to do the MD route again....:-) A very nice recommendation!

Yes, The MD could be an option when reading the post above. I think the Trigger I/O is very old in design and a bit limited in some functions. With the MD you get total freedom. Up to 56 channels...the absolute fastest trigger2midi implementation. With the new 120 MHz ARM implementation...you get a latency on 1 ms. Yes, the complexity could be an issue...but the forum and our config library of pad/cymbals/triggers will hopefully take down the journey a bit - but it is not a walk in the park. When you get it right...it just delivers!! Pricing starts from 165 english pounds for the 32 channel implementation. Have a look at www.megadrum.info

Best Regards

ANGR77

[ohlarikd]

Hmm, not sure yet. I don't feel like building it, and I know you can build it for me but at what cost? Cannot tell from site yet. I just am not sure I am willing to deal with all the complexity of a MD at this point. Seems like in the end it may be more expensive when its all said and done over 2 Alesis Trigger I/Os. But I am still researching pros and cons, so the option is good to know about.

Derek

[airflamesred]

There is a perceived complexity to Megadrum, not sure why. It has features which cover all pads cymbals etc from any manufacturer, features you won't find on any other module. Comes with pc/mac interface to make programming a real pleasure.
You'll regret the alesis on latency alone.

[angr77]

165 gbp is for a complete 32 channel module and 205 Gbp is for 56 channel module. These are finished and there is nothing to build here...:-)

Angr77

[ohlarikd]

165 gbp is for a complete 32 channel module and 205 Gbp is for 56 channel module. These are finished and there is nothing to build here...:-)

Angr77

Ah, not bad! We'll talk. ..

[ohlarikd]

So is it true there is a latency problem with Trigger I/O?

[airflamesred]

So is it true there is a latency problem with Trigger I/O?

Well it wouldn't be fair for me to comment on it's actual latency but latency really is one of those things that is infernally annoying.

[ohlarikd]

Deleted Post... My response to airflamesred seemed a little rude... sorry about that.

[perceval]

Trigger IO is getting really old. The triggering and crosstalk functions will be far inferior to what a MD will give you. If that Alesis module was given to me, I might use it, got things like FX and stuff. I wouldn't spend money on tech that is so old... Especially since drum modules have evolved so much since.

The MD will work with any pads you have, Roland, Yamaha, Pintech, Alesis, ... and DIY.

I think it's a no brainer.

[ohlarikd]

Ok - I see what everyone is saying. I don't mind the complexity, and the price is about the same for much newer and more flexible tech. I never considered MD before so I will read up more about it since the website seems very full of information.

[Guest]

I am looking to sell my TD9 and TD6 since I am severely underutilizing them. I use Superior Drummer, so I am only using MIDI OUT on the modules. I figure I can sell them and get a 'trigger only' brain such as the Alesis Trigger I/O (and slightly cheaper rebranded ddrum DDTI). The Roland trigger interfaces seem to be more expensive with less inputs.

I have no plans to use this setup out of my house, so using Superior and a PC is fine for my situation, so the reliability and built in sounds of a TD module are not necessary.

Is the Trigger I/O the best option? Is the ddrum version any different? The Alesis rack version costs more due to the built in sounds capability I guess, so that is not so attractive for me.

Hellfire?

Thanks!

It all depends on what you want out of your system and what you expect. I can only assume you like having the dual zone hi-hats that you have with your TD-9/6 combo. If you do, the DDTi (Trigger I/O) isn't for you. It only handles single zone hats. I would assume you like your dual zone cymbals with choke. The Trigger I/O can only handle single zone with choke.

The truth is the Trigger I/O is best used as an expansion to a existing set-up. If you don't mind some of the limitations, the Trigger I/O is a great little box at its price point. I know of couple people who set-ups use two I/O and they are quite happy with it.

The MD is a good option, but if you don't like DIY or a more complex menu system you will not like the MegaDrum. I've seen many users who thought the MD was the answer only to hate the interface menu and end up selling it on ebay. Yes, the MD is a great box, but there is a learning curve that most don't expect from it.

So it comes down to what you want out of your system. Most who try to do what you want are trying to put money in their pocket and are hoping that they can get the same results from a cheaper/easier set-up. That can be difficult to do.

Here's an option you may not have considered, how about a used Roland TD-10? It has many advantages:

1) Since you would be using it with a computer, you don't care about the internal sounds.
2) It's Roland and you are already familiar with the way Roland modules work.
3) It's cheaper than your TD-9/TD-6 combo. At least based on current eBay prices. So you would be putting a little money back in your pocket.
4) Since your current kit uses Roland compatible gear, there shouldn't be any compatibility issues.

I hope that helps.

[ohlarikd]

Hellfire -

Yes, truthfully I am trying to put some money back in my pocket (well, it will immediately go to a new snare...). The TD9/6 combo I have works great and I have zero issues with it. But I feel like I am wasting their potential since I just use them for triggers and MIDI OUT. For years I did use the internal sounds and a VH-11, but eventually switched to SD and Gen16.

I use a Gen16 HH so I do not have a real use for the HH inputs. I like dual zone cymbals, choke, swells, etc. SD can create swells though from a non-swell TD9.

The sole reason I have a TD9 AND a TD6 is because I needed the extra inputs. I think I would need two Trigger I/Os, unless I used a lot of Y-Cables, which is an option. I have 7 toms, a snare, and various amounts of Roland/Yamaha cymbals (but a Gen16 HH and Ride only). I am not sure I would save too much getting a TD10, and I think I would not have enough inputs and still need the expansion. Seems like a MD would be cheaper with more inputs.

I appreciate your advice Hellfire, as I know you are a big Alesis fan.

I shall investigate MD some more...