Splitting a signal from one trigger to two modules?

[LamaRax]

This is a hypothetical question regarding the use of one trigger to activate two drum modules. Let's say I wanted to incorporate a NORD 2 into my TD-10 setup, and I wanted to use the same kick/snare and tom triggers for both units. What would be the best way to route the trigger signals to both units simultaneously while retaining the option of using each sound source separately? Is there some kind of a signal router controlled with a foot switch? I am imagining a unit with one input for each trigger and a 2-channel output for each input, where one channel would go to the TD-10 and the other to the NORD. Thanks!

[fulrmr(Daniel)]

The simple way is to just use a stereo splitter "TRS to dual TRS" which will send the signal to both devices simultaneously....and continuously. However if you want to "switch these on and off" for use individually you may need a latch a switch in line to each instrument or a mute button on the console that they are attached to.

[allanjohn]

I do this for trigger testing at digitalDrummer, with most of my inputs split between a TD-30 and a 2box module. This saves me moving cables each time I switch modules. You'll probably need to low-resistance TRS/double TRS adapters built for you by a cable specialist as you won't find anything suitable pre-made.

[hairmetal-81]

Another way to go about this could be to MIDI-out the TD-10 into the Nord-Drum. Less cable-salad...


HTH

[soccerdude84]

Another way to go about this could be to MIDI-out the TD-10 into the Nord-Drum. Less cable-salad...


HTH

This is what I use for my DM's

[fulrmr(Daniel)]

I do this for trigger testing at digitalDrummer, with most of my inputs split between a TD-30 and a 2box module. This saves me moving cables each time I switch modules. You'll probably need to low-resistance TRS/double TRS adapters built for you by a cable specialist as you won't find anything suitable pre-made.

Headphone spliters are are TRS x dual TRS. ..and you can still find these in 1/4" online.

[allanjohn]

Headphone spliters are are TRS x dual TRS. ..and you can still find these in 1/4" online.

It's not just the jack configuration. Resistance may be an issue with off-the-shelf cables which may not provide enough signal as piezo output is fairly limited.

[fulrmr(Daniel)]

Nah....it worked fine everytime ive ever done it with any of the modules and consoles i have......unless something is different with the nord

[allanjohn]

Sorry Dan, I've had signal issues with a couple of different cables and had to resort to custom low resistance versions. I would urge anyone to ensure the can return any cables if they don't work out. I'm splitting inputs between a TD-30 and a 2box, as well as a dtx700, from time to time. It's especially noticeable on the snare, with the signal reduced by about a third when two outputs are being driven. There are also issues with 2box cymbals when inputs are split between two modules with some regular cables.

[fulrmr(Daniel)]

Sorry Dan, I've had signal issues with a couple of different cables and had to resort to custom low resistance versions. I would urge anyone to ensure the can return any cables if they don't work out. I'm splitting inputs between a TD-30 and a 2box, as well as a dtx700, from time to time. It's especially noticeable on the snare, with the signal reduced by about a third when two outputs are being driven. There are also issues with 2box cymbals when inputs are split between two modules with some regular cables.

Really? Never had any problems splitting the pads between the TD-30 and the 2Box. (PD128S & DIY) Even when I was using the VH-13 pad to trigger them both I never had any signal loss. I did eventually go to 2 separate trigger assemblies....but only to expand upon my personal experimentation to see the difference in side and center trigger optimization. At the moment I even split my snare and kick between Both 2Box modules...with no loss of signal using 1 side mounted Quartz trigger assembly of my own design.

I guess it's a trial and error experiment as most things of this nature are. Well....at least stereo splitters are inexpensive. Making them is even less expensive...and very easy to....but I do agree...one should always be aware of the return policy.

[LamaRax]

Thanks everyone for the suggestions!

[BWaj]

Another way to go about this could be to MIDI-out the TD-10 into the Nord-Drum. Less cable-salad...


HTH

Agreed, if it's purely to trigger both modules to layer sounds or use the best sounds from each module, midi is the way to go, imo. I occasionally do this with the TD-9 and 30 to add like a tambourine to a snare or put a snare, timbale and splash cymbal on one pad to make me sound like two really average drummers instead of one really bad one, lol.

Easier to control changes too.