Pros
Good clean sounds
Small size fits anywhere
Pads are nice
Solid construction and dependable performance
Built-in reverb
Affordable price
Easy to load sounds from SD card
Good sound quality for learning and practice
Decent unit with great sounding samples
Cons
Low visibility view screen for outdoor shows
SD card can pop loose during handling
Low volume output
Main Product Advantages
8 Built-in Sounds
Contains 200+ built-in sounds, including essential samples like handclap and tambourine. Users appreciated the quality of these sounds for live performance.
8 Construction and Build Quality
Generally described as solid and durable. However, specific components, like the power switch and SD card slot, received criticism for poor design.
7 SD Card and Sample Loading
Supports SD card for loading additional samples, though some users reported technical issues with extracting audio from the card.
7 Price Point
Praised as a cost-effective alternative to high-end competitors like Roland SPD-SX. Good value for occasional use but may fall short for professional demands.
7 Reverb Effect
The built-in reverb effect adds value, appreciated by users who need minimal additional equipment.
6 Ease of Use
Considered user-friendly with straightforward loading from SD cards. Still, some users faced difficulties with pad sensitivity settings and occasional false triggers.
5 Velocity Sensitive Drum Pads
While pads are described as solid and reliable, issues with pad sensitivity and inconsistency were commonly noted. Some pads require hard hits to trigger properly.
5 Output Volume
Criticized for low output volume, requiring maxed-out settings to compete with other instruments or in live settings.
5 Cross-talk Issues
Significant cross-talk concerns reported, necessitating delicate sensitivity adjustments; otherwise, pads may trigger erroneously.
Review of Alesis SamplePad Pro - Percussion and Sample-Triggering Instrument
The Alesis SamplePad Pro is the ultimate all-in-one percussion instrument. Whether you’re looking to expand the capabilities of your existing acoustic kit or simply in search of a premium solution to play back samples and loops within a live performance, the SamplePad Pro is the answer. It is an all-in-one percussion instrument that knows no bounds and offers limitless sonic creativity.
8 Velocity Sensitive Pads with LED Illumination
SamplePad Pro features 8 fully responsive and velocity-sensitive pads, each illuminated with blue LED lights. This makes it visually appealing and ensures you hit the right pad every time, even in low-light conditions. The pads are extremely responsive and allow for nuanced performances that every musician desires.
Packed with In-Demand Sound Content
With over 200 carefully crafted drum, cymbal, and percussion sounds built-in, the SamplePad Pro sets no limits on your sonic creativity. These sounds have been created by the professional Alesis sound design team and are arranged into ten onboard preset drum kits for instant access during performances.
Load Your Own Sounds
One of the standout features of the SamplePad Pro is its ability to load custom sounds. Using an SD card (up to 32GB, not included), you can store an additional 512 sounds and create 89 custom kits. Each sound offers individual access to key parameters such as pitch, panning, and reverb, giving you immense control over your sound.
Expanded Control Options
If you need more pads, the SamplePad Pro has got you covered with trigger inputs for two additional drum pads. It also includes kick drum and hi-hat pedal inputs, giving you the flexibility to transform the SamplePad Pro from a percussion powerhouse into a fully-fledged electronic drum kit. It maintains full compatibility with all MIDI-equipped pads, triggers, sequencers, and instruments.
Easy Integration and Customization
The direct USB connection allows for seamless integration with your computer, making it easy to load an endless amount of custom sounds. The SD card slot provides additional storage, ensuring your options are never limited. Note that the SD/SDHC card and computer are not included with the SamplePad Pro.
Conclusion
The Alesis SamplePad Pro is everything you are looking for in a pad-based percussion instrument—and more. With its responsive pads, extensive sound library, customizable options, and expandable controls, it offers unmatched versatility and creativity for both amateur and professional musicians alike. Whether for studio work or live performances, the SamplePad Pro delivers beyond expectations.
