Alesis Unveils DM Dock – Percussion Module / Clam-Case For iPad
Alesis has announced the DM Dock. Similar to Akai’s MPC Fly concept, it features a case/interface for the iPad that contains 13 individual 1/4″ TRS trigger inputs for connecting drum and cymbal pads and other triggers.
The DM Dock harnesses the power of your iPad to give you a wide selection of sounds, the iPad’s touchscreen for hands-on visual control, and wireless connectivity. This builds upon the design of the Alesis iO Dock, harnessing the processing power of your iPad or iPad 2 to give you a fully-integrated, stage-ready module with a wide array of professional trigger inputs and audio outputs.
Thanks to your iPad’s WiFi, Bluetooth, AirPlay, and 3G connectivity, you can change and enhance your sound library at a moment’s notice, download a new snare drum or ride cymbal to suit a venue, download a reverb or room delay to suit a particular room’s acoustics or load an entirely new kit to suit a last-minute gig. The DM Dock delivers the convenience, power and simplicity you’ve always wanted in a drum module, and works with virtually any iPad music app that permits external MIDI control.
The DM Dock is also compatible with Alesis’ and most other brands’ dual-zone drum and cymbal pads, triple-zone ride cymbals, continuous-control hi-hats, multiple-choke cymbals, and acoustic drum triggers. Plus, it mounts to any stand or rack using the Alesis Module Mount (sold separately).
With a hinged door on one side, the DM Dock completely encloses your iPad in its silver housing, providing complete integration and protection for live performances, while still giving you complete access to your iPad’s touchscreen. The DM Dock comes equipped with 13 1/4″ TRS trigger inputs, all of which are dual zone. It supports multiple choke-able cymbals including triple-zone ride, and dual-zone continuous hi-hats. You also get a 1/4-inch headphone jack, a 1/8-inch mix input for connecting external audio sources, and balanced 1/4-inch stereo outputs. Traditional MIDI and USB MIDI connections, and an assignable footswitch input are also onboard so you can toggle between kits, tap in a click tempo, or start and stop sequences without missing a beat. The DM Dock powers and charges your iPad using an included worldwide switching power supply, so you don’t need worry about draining your iPad’s power during gigs.
