Week One with the Alesis Strata Prime

[@scottsimo3170]

Finally, a decent non ad review. Good on You.

[@scott8786]

This is the review I've been waiting for! You are the MVP of the eDrum community. Thank you so much.

[@TheeDrumWorkshop]

Thank you 🙏

[@LongingArc]

@@TheeDrumWorkshop would you recommend buying this kit for a beginner-intermediate drummer? Also could you share your settings with me? I have no idea how I would get the correct settings haha

[@alvarohernandez2764]

You don't understand, those are the best voices, finetuned by the best studios. Hit it baby! "Lets go to room click" "Double back a little" "Lets go to, lets go to room click" "Double dibidi double back a little"

[@flbchbm]

double-back to the future

[@Iamadrummer]

As others have found out, extra triggering and crosstalk can be dialed to limit it, but no matter how you adjust for it, it can not be completely dialed away. I do think the Strata Prime e-kit is an improvement over the Strike Pro Se e-kit, but... I think it is too expensive for not a perfect kit. It is nice to see Alesis coming out with better higher-end e-kits rather than just crappy budget friendly e-kits, but I do think the Strata Prime kit needs some improvements before I would concider buying it. From the honest reviews I have seen, I feel Alesis did not do enough testing on this kit to find the issues many that have played this kit had and fixed them. I do think in the future, Alesis will have a high-end e-kit worth buying, but as of now, I really can not recommend Alesis as a good brand to buy. For less money than the Alesis Strata Prime e-kit, there are better functioning high-end e-kits from other brands out there. Also, I do not like how Alesis has marketed the Strata Prime kit. They seemed to send the kit to quite a few internet drummers and had them show how great the kit is. Sadly, I feel those reviews only showed that the kit is great and totally worth getting. You need to weed through those reviews and get honest reviews from the ones that did not get sent the kit but bought one or had an opportunity to play one. Those reviewers not only showed the good aspects of the kit but also pointed out all the cons and flaws the kit has. Your review, as always, is one of the more honest ones.

[@TheeDrumWorkshop]

Thank you 🙏 Yeah, I think I agree that you could forgive some of Alesis' other kits due to the incredibly low price. This kit has strayed into a price range where there is a lot of solid competition and the trigger performance at least isn't punching at a high enough level currently. The module is the flashy selling point but that can only go so far if there are problems with it.

[@superwotan]

Thank you for this superb video. I was on the edge on purchasing it, but after seeing your review I will definitely wait.

[@ozthekeymaster]

Now this, children, is how to do a review. 👍👏👏 Awesome job, cheers Luke!

[@TheeDrumWorkshop]

Thank you 🙏

[@MR_Robbers]

I love that there's a voice on a few samples...signature!

[@mikosoft]

This is the best video on Strata Prime I've seen. The initial set up was a treat to watch.

[@jamessullenriot]

This is a great review. As a VAD 506 owner I not in the market but would have envy of 3 things. 1: The 3 zone cymbals 2: the built in sounds (actually I think to my ear, Alesis always excels with that) and 3: the module touchscreen

[@iandguzman]

I own both alesis strike pro and just recently bought a roland td27kv2 and the strike is eating dust now. Cant even sell it. Once u go Roland, u never go back!

[@Ludo_A]

I have a VAD 507 and had exactly the same thoughts/envy. The included BFD library and kits sound great. That is why I use SD3, EZ3 with my 507 and of course the kits that Luke makes for the TD 27 😄

[@shackelfro]

​@@iandguzmancould you say more about this? I'm making a decision potentially between the strata prime and a Roland currently!

[@iandguzman]

@@shackelfro Choose Roland. It features digital snare, rides, and hats, which are significantly superior to Alesis. The quality and technology provide ample reasons to prefer it over any Alesis kit. Embrace the innovation.

[@ianmclean5541]

Thank you Luke for another highly detailed thorough review. You do great work, my friend.

[@TheeDrumWorkshop]

Thanks 🙏

[@NigelMarston]

I have a Roland TD27KV2 with an extra tom and crash. I like it - it just works - out of the box I never had to set it up with trigger sensitivity or crosstalk. However, I REALLY love that Alesis has different sized tom pads and I also like that slot feature for the ends of the rack tubes. The sounds are good too - going to see if I can buy/download them and pump them into my kit.

[@kierenmoore3236]

My plan was to buy a 27KV2 … now this new Alesis has popped up … Sounds like I should just stick to Plan A, tho ‘ …

[@Pyrocookies]

I used to own a TD50x but sold it a few months back and bought a TD27 and haven’t looked back. I predominantly use it with SD3 but know that I can always get great sounds from the module if necessary

[@JonnyRobinson]

Man this is a great review, I have watched loads and yours is the first to really pick it apart.

[@CodyBDrums]

Regarding the bass drum triggering issue, I have had the same exact issue. I believe i’ve completely fixed it by making sure the tightness of the head is equal the whole way around. Same thing with the snare. And I made them both a little extra tight which seemed to help too. But I see you’ve removed the head completely and reinstalled it and still have the same issue. It worked for me however. I could definitely see how the mesh head not being equally tuned all the away around could cause some triggering issues.

[@TheeDrumWorkshop]

Interesting to hear that this fixed it for you! Yeah, I've had the head off and tried a few tensions but not seen any improvement so far. I'm usually pretty good at getting things even by feel alone and it's not an issue I've really run into with other kicks except the one mentioned in the video, but I'll crack out the drum dial and see if getting all the lugs exactly the same helps. Cheers!

[@aarond33]

How did it work out?​@@TheeDrumWorkshop

[@aarond33]

What kind of pedal are you guys using? Curious to know if different pedals may be more prone to transmitting vibrations from the down motion pripr to pedal striking drum

[@482jpsquared]

Excellent, fair and granular review, as we've come to expect and appreciate from you, Luke! I really appreciated that you drilled into and analyzed some of the triggering issues and showed the viewer how you were able to correct them.

[@TheeDrumWorkshop]

Thank you John! 🙏

[@adamgarner711]

Another very informative review. Love the depth and topics covered in this review. I’m a hardcore Roland user, have been open minded about moving. This kit has a lot of positive aspects. The triggering issues are a big no go at the price point. If you want to compete with Roland, Alesis needs to ensure the trigger performance at this price point is better.

[@jonnyfgroove]

Thanks Luke! I've been waiting for this one.

[@TheeDrumWorkshop]

Enjoy!

[@andronakys]

I remember when I bought my efnote 5 and never had to do a bunch of settings just to make it work.

[@cliffordswinscoe1584]

Great review - as a fan of Roland reliability, I was thinking of upgrading to the Td27kv2, then the Alesis Strata came along which caused a dilemma......think I'm going to wait a few months to see if the Alesis has any unresolved issues before I make a decision. !!

[@mecdrum7]

I’m getting this kit thanks. I learn more on each vid.

[@EDCaub]

Great honest review!

[@squidskunk]

iv been waiting for your input on this kit. thanks.

[@SuddenAccess]

sounds; Roland, please take notes...

[@philipleblanc62]

The sounds are better but the kit is miles behind I'd buy the efnote before this overpriced pos the hats are bad lacking and so are the individual outs I'll never understand why they don't put individual outs for a front of house mix on these modules there's nothing like trying to incorporate e drums to your acoustic drums only to piss of the sound guy with a left right out of a module these companies are stupid the old module was better with the outs

[@arbogast4950]

I don't really have a problem with Roland's sound design. Sometimes they need a little tweaking but their modules are more than capable.

[@astronaut2005drummer]

Great review! The new Alesis drum looks cool and the module too. Great sounds. Thanks for sharing with us your point of view of this new piece of gear. :)

[@ChontosDrumLessons]

Luke with another exceptional review. Way to go, man!!

[@TheeDrumWorkshop]

Thanks Jared 🙏

[@outforit692]

Hey Luke. Any luck with the missed triggers on the snare and kick? Do you have any planes on follow up video? Thanks in advance. Really enjoy your videos.

[@TheeDrumWorkshop]

So far, I haven't completely narrowed it down. It appears that when I'm using a different pedal it happens less often and playing with the two mask settings has helped a bit. However, I've barely had the kit set up since this video which is why I haven't yet made a follow up. It takes up too much space to get it out regularly when I have other projects on. I aim to do an update when I'm able to, but I can't promise when that will be.

[@outforit692]

@@TheeDrumWorkshopthanks for the reply.

[@fuzzypoet1018]

I upgraded my kit from a Roland KV11 to Drum-tec shells. No regrets. I noticed the issue with the bass drum pedal; Drum-tec's 18" x8" bass came with a rubber piece w/adhesive to allow for perfect bass drum attachment. I have older Alesis cymbals and these seem to a great improvement. I must say that the shell wrap is really nice on your kit; it's a shame that the plastic on th evottom of the shells is so darn thick.

[@JHPRS]

I own this kit, bought it on day 1. The main thing that concerns me is that you can't make backups for kits, instruments, and settings. I really hope this comes in an update. :)

[@mecdrum7]

I heard the right there’s a save look like card computer card

[@bruceperkins2921]

the more hear this kit. the more im digging it

[@jjptech]

Thanks for the review. It's amazing how little to none tunning this brands makes, it seems that the issues are just lack of dialing in it properly before launch, they count on the users to make adjustments. On the other hand, the sounds are just A MA ZING.

[@MR_Robbers]

Great demo man! I'll be revisiting this once I buy. Super

[@Protpally70]

I have had the kit for a few weeks. The kick issue drives me crazy when I play. Can’t wait to find out how to fix it.

[@suatbaylav7623]

I have the same issue

[@TheeDrumWorkshop]

I'm glad it's not just me that's experienced this! If I find the fix, I'll be sure to update!

[@johnfrith7884]

Any luck resolving the kick issue yet?

[@Protpally70]

No!! I was playing Sunday. So many notes from the kick just don’t come through. So snare hits as well, but manly the kick. I have read a lot of forums, and tried different threshold settings, and sensitivity. Doesn’t help. I am at the most current firmware as well.

[@johnfrith7884]

I am sorry to hear that I was planning on buying this thing Wednesday, but I’m on the fence now I’m thinking I may try to go ahead and get an Efnote or roland I’m assuming I can get them to sound just as good as the Alesis if I add some type of other software, I don’t want something that’s not going to work this would be my first e kit I’ve played acoustic my whole life

[@LordPlaythellSteele-er4qi]

Such a great review. Huge thank you sir...

[@ArgonautDrums]

Great stuff dude!

[@TheeDrumWorkshop]

Thanks 🙏

[@johnsonqjohnson]

it will be the new Zildjian kit for me ...this was a great review

[@outforit692]

Have you ever figured out the issue with the missed triggers on the kick? Or snare? Thanks in advance

[@TheeDrumWorkshop]

So far, I haven't completely narrowed it down. It appears that when I'm using a different pedal it happens less often and playing with the two mask settings has helped a bit. However, I've barely had the kit set up since this video which is why I haven't yet made a follow up. It takes up too much space to get it out regularly when I have other projects on. I aim to do an update when I'm able to, but I can't promise when that will be.

[@marvinpaerran8858]

the most informative StrataPrime video so far 👍

[@kbrown649]

I think it sounds great!

[@mikebruni9881]

I've had this kit a few days and I did have to tweak the kick trigger settings a bunch. I haven't noticed the variable velocity issue over the last few hours of playing. I'm pretty heavy footed, so the threshold is higher than you'd typically think would be OK. One also has to open the hi hats quite deliberately, and slightly before the strike which I typically don't do on my acoustics. Not sure if that's a me thing or not. I'm enjoying the quality of the samples quite a lot, and that ambiance is handled with separate adjustable mic channels and not just processing. SFSG I'd say.

[@TheeDrumWorkshop]

Glad that the velocity issue hasn't hit you. I'll continue to work on it, there's always a chance it's something simple that I've overlooked. I hope so anyway, I want it to work well! The hi-hat lifting thing is quite common on electronic kits in general to be honest. There aren't really any that perform exactly as acoustic ones do, though I think Roland's digital hi-hats play better than the Strata's and I hear great things about EFNOTE's hi-hats (I only tested briefly at The UK Drum Show last year, didn't have enough time to get a proper idea about it).

[@kitdinker]

Excellent review. Thank you!

[@johndef5075]

Roland stuff triggers so good out of the box. Even used stuff. I would not be happy with these problems at that price.

[@TheeDrumWorkshop]

I always have to tweak Roland triggers to my preference but it's rare that I'm "troubleshooting" them, for sure. There have been a small handful of times where I've had a genuine faulty part but otherwise it's a pretty hassle free experience with Roland triggers. I agree that this kit pushes too far into a higher price range for its performance at the moment.

[@JiTiAr35]

This is why for me triggering is the most important. It will affect your playing. Which brand do you think has the best triggering?

[@TheeDrumWorkshop]

I think that Roland generally has the best triggering of all the major brands. The Pearl Mimic Pro comes close and Audiofront's eDRUMin is also fantastic for detailed dialling in if you're only running VSTs or have a bunch of different pads, but Roland's triggering is simpler to set up, especially with their own pads. The digital pads are great too.

[@JiTiAr35]

@@TheeDrumWorkshop Thanks, mate.

[@Rister39]

Can you make a video showing how you dialed your kit in? I have the kit and still struggle with the kick and snare either failing to trigger or triggering way softer than my hits. I do have the head sensitivity turned up on both and I still encounter this issue. I believe all my triggers are set to linear, should those be set to log? I also struggle to get the cymbals dialed in, the bow of my ride acts more like I’m hitting the edge with medium hits and my bell on the ride is hard to trigger.

[@outforit692]

I replied to you a few days ago and don’t know what happened to it. I had the same issue. I put a ticket in with Alesis and after trying a bunch of stuff they suggested didn’t fix it. So they sent me a new module. It has helped but I still get a missed or low trigger in the kick and snare but no where near as I originally had. I would recommend to put a ticket in with Alesis support.

[@josephflannery6136]

As a newer owner of this kit. I can say I am astounded by this thing. The way that it both feels AND sounds like an acoustic kit is so great. Yes, the cymbals are rubber, but their triggers are spot on. The feel of them are great, and you can see they're built pretty well. I've been having a blast with this kit ever since I've got it. My one problem I've encountered was from the drum key screw on Tom One. I went to re tighten it, and it ended up stripping, which sucks. easy to fix, but it is good to keep noted that the screws aren't the strongest and worth looking into getting some backups eventually. Other than that, however, no problems. Highly recommend

[@TheeDrumWorkshop]

I'm glad you're enjoying it and haven't run into any issues that affect the playability. That's a shame about the screw stripping - did you have a matching gold tension rod or did you just go with a regular one?

[@steevidrums]

I knew you come in with the answering some of the questions that have sprung to mind when this was released and and everyone was going ape shit. This is why YOU ARE the man to go to for edrum reviews that really delve into the finer points of a system and not be over-wowed with the bells and whistles. Of course, buyer purchase in me had a degree of protective bias over this when a bunch of people started calling it a Mimic Slayer, especially as some rumours where circling of the Mimic's end of life, (which has since been dispelled too... so who knows) But I concede it's an excellent addition to the edrum market, it's extremely competitively priced and does sound fantastic. I cannot wait until you do a follow up! PS. Hope your USA tour went well mate. Best wishes, your most loyal fan from Wales (or any other place!)

[@TheeDrumWorkshop]

Thanks Steve 🙏 The tour went great but completely flew by! Yeah, I don't think the Mimic power users have much to fear at the moment. If some of these issues are resolved and plenty of expansions get released, maybe we'll have to reassess that situation!

[@edwarddanilzadeh]

tnx for making this video

[@chrxs_1397]

bro i rlly wanted to buy it but u changed my mind ty i will wait and find better for that price range

[@ashadowawhisper]

Alesis needs to do a deal with Gibraltar or PDP and use actual metal hardware, let that be a feature "true all metal drum hardware"... I think you're right about the Strike PRO... that's an incredible kit and its a ton of fun to play, it FEELS like you're playing an acoustic kit.

[@thewinegeekdan]

Can’t believe Alesis didn’t send you a review kit!! Probably scared of your technical prowess!!

[@TheeDrumWorkshop]

I wouldn't like to presume why I wasn't sent one!

[@thewinegeekdan]

Thank you very much!!!

[@thewinegeekdan]

Thank you for the info

[@Garagedrummer]

Luke…finally! Let’s go

[@TheeDrumWorkshop]

Hope you enjoyed it!

[@symunut9316]

So how do you configure the outputs to play live other than left and right? That will upset sound engineers. My Strike Pro SE is great because you can adjust all toms, cymbals, kick, hat, and snare separately.

[@davo0593]

Hi Luke. Please if it is possible would You try the 18 inch arc cymbal with the edrumin interface? To test if you can get working all the three zones? Please please please.

[@sampilsbury9415]

Zero crosstalk or miss triggering with my Roland VAD

[@jezusmylord]

This review looks hella funny and good after 10 seconds allready

[@petersinol]

How good are sounds of this module compared to mimic?

[@howiethedrummer]

Great in depth review!!!

[@Drum2]

Good review. Looks a lot better than previous Alesis kits. But I can't do without the X-Sticks on my Roland Digital snare. No MIDI over USB?? that's killed it for me, as that's what I use the most.

[@Kozouakomachan9079]

Awesome alwais✰you are the best drummer!!🥁🎶⚡✨🌠🌟👌🏻👍🏼

[@batbeardscs]

Just got the Strata Prime and I’m mostly loving it. I’m having the same issue with the kick on mine as you did and I’m curious if you’ve found a solution?

[@TheeDrumWorkshop]

So far, I haven't completely narrowed it down. It appears that when I'm using a different pedal it happens less often and playing with the two mask settings has helped. However, I've barely had the kit set up since this video which is why I haven't yet made a follow up. It takes up too much space to get it out regularly when I have other projects on. I aim to do an update when I'm able to though.

[@galwaytribesman9289]

That was a tasty fill at 12:55 man

[@Kevinf63]

Hey folks, thought I post in here, 7th October 2024, the current list of module firmware updates (Latest Firmware Version: 1.1.0). I was curious had they implemented the Bluetooth feature or sorted specific gripes Luke had with the Strata Prime. As I didn't wanted to stick a direct link in here, you can find this documentation for yourself under the Alesis Strata Prime downloads page. The "update guide" button opens a PDF, including this text below. Changes Since Firmware v1.0.2 Feature Updates • New simplified home page with quick Kit and Kit Piece selection Other Improvements • Resolved a crash/freeze when powering down the drum module. • Fixed issue with the hihat MIDI map which may cause a crash. • Replaced or removed some individual audio samples. Changes Since Firmware v1.0.1 Feature Updates • Added Bluetooth audio. Other Improvements • Resolved an issue where some modules would show a file system corruption message. • Other minor bug fixes. Changes Since Firmware v1.0.0 Feature Updates • Added 55 additional Trigger presets, including all modern Alesis triggers and some third-party manufacturers. • Added a preference for hit select responding to external midi input. • Added a "CDD Class" Factory Kit. • Added DSP & CPU meters to the UI. Other Improvements • Improved preset load times. • Added stack support across all articulation zones. • Improved the audition volume in the Kit Edit - Import Browser. • Reduced the width of the Mixer channel. • Resolved an issue where re-attaching USB drives would cause files to be invisible. • Resolved an issue where Aux In and Output channels were -1.94 dB by default. • Resolved an issue where save icons on other kit pieces became greyed out after exiting Stacks on an empty kit piece. • Resolved an issue with USB MIDI note output note length being too short. • Other minor bug fixes.

[@nakleh]

I'm quite interested in this kit.. I wish there was a version with 3 toms instead of 4, but I could always sell one of the toms to recoup some of the price I wonder if you could get shorter rack arms for the right side if only using one tom? The kit seems to have a large footprint

[@nakleh]

I'd also love to hear how loud the kit is in a room acoustically (sometimes videos demonstrate this, but don't have any other sounds like talking to compare it to). Having someone talking at a normal volume while playing would be very valuable

[@Ludo_A]

Great review and drumming Luke! You know your stuff. A 'normal' novice buyer will not be able to tweak things like you do/can.

[@TheeDrumWorkshop]

Thank you 🙏

[@tbip2001]

On the stratas kits, is there a way of turning up and down the ‘room mics’ ? Often this is what really makes a kit sound acoustic. There very dry processed sounds are exactly that, but bring up the room mics and eberything starts to sound much more natural

[@derekmaynard5619]

Yup there is that adjustment. Many others too. They updated the module since this and ive had very little issues. Im personally enjoying this kit like a little kid! Thats me, i also just came from an alesis dm8 lol super old and not even in the same league, so almost any upgrade would've been better. That being said, i also had a pearl export pro series acoustic kit for many ywars and the strata has brought me to that level of love again, and the sounds has captured even more love for drumming.

[@tbip2001]

Really want to know abiut pad compatibility with the module especially diy centre triggers . I’m considering a edum 10 and then seeing what the cheapest laptop/micro pc/vst software is to create my own ‘module’ Would be great to see just how little it can be done for. I reckon these days a 200 quid laptop with an older i7 proccessor should be able to handle ezdrummer

[@thewinegeekdan]

Great review!!! How does the Prime module compare sound wise to the Mimic?

[@TheeDrumWorkshop]

Thank you! 🙏 They have very different sound characters, to be honest. I feel like the Prime sounds are generally punchier in the mid-range - feels like there's a lot of presence around the 2K range and more top-end in general. They also feel very transient-heavy, but then the SSD sounds in the Mimic could be described similarly. There's a "closeness" to the Prime samples compared to the typical Slate "big room" sound. You'd be best served by just listening to as many demos as possible though really because some of that can be adjusted anyway and it's all a matter of preference.

[@thewinegeekdan]

@@TheeDrumWorkshop thank you!!

[@bobvanster]

Hey mate I rented this kit vs purchasing due to my hearing sensitive issues. So far it's been not too bad with the option of purchasing it. So far I'm digging it. They did address alot of the issues the Strike had. Not being a 2 ft player. I put the front part of the rack on the ride side so I can have 3 Toms up 1 ft down. I did notice the issue with the kick

[@TheeDrumWorkshop]

Glad to hear you've been enjoying it. Do you think you'll go on to purchase it?

[@bobvanster]

@TheeDrumWorkshop If my hearing can tolerate it, most likely. I get almost $400 CAD and my rental fee off since it was the store demo which is in mint condition. It is cheaper than the roland DP back I had purchased 7 years back I have till the 20th to decide 🙃

[@bobvanster]

@TheeDrumWorkshop Like I posted on our forum. I wonder if rhe Crimson/Command style pads vs the KV style of the Strike was due to being sued by Roland which Alesis lost from what I understand.

[@amoscampista5380]

Hi! Thanks for the great video. Would you mind sharing what settings you adjusted to dial-in the strata prime? I just purchased one and don’t have a midi set up. I would certainly appreciate having it dialed in like yours.

[@jasonwright4144]

Could you show how you set it up to record with Reaper and how you got isolated drum tracks?

[@TheeDrumWorkshop]

I didn't get isolated drum tracks, I just ran the two XLR outputs into two inputs on my interface (Focusrite Scarlett 18i20), set up a stereo track for those two inputs in Reaper and recorded those. So it's just a stereo recording of the master outputs. I also recorded the MIDI by running a DIN MIDI cable from the Prime's MIDI out to the interface's MIDI in port.

[@666rbr]

hi, great vid! what are the dimensions assembled? thanks

[@Casa_7]

Hi man! Thanks for ur videos, they are all really helpful! What would you suggest me as beginner on drums to buy along with a td 17kvx2 as double kick, hi hat stand and throne? For kicks and hat stand I'd say my budget is around 300€ and 150€, for the throne I really don't know a price range, but I'd like to get something decent that lasts but that won't cost me a lot. I mainly plan on learning metal and rock, but some jazz maybe in the future. What would you recommend?

[@theresonlytwogenders852]

I have the expanded strata prime and I am having the same issues with the kick drum too.

[@whoathatcombo]

I heard that you have to like perfectly tune the mesh head to fix it but it seems to be software so maybe they will fix it with a update

[@Andyroid62]

Helpful video, thanks. Can I ask about the ability to import the BFD expansions? I was surprised that there are no included bar chimes by default (I think that's right?) so I would want to import from the Percussion expansion. Do you know if that feature has been (or might be) added?

[@TheeDrumWorkshop]

As of yet there doesn't seem to be a way to import the expansions. It was clearly planned at some point as the manual used to reference it, but it hasn't happened so far. Hopefully it will, but I don't know what Alesis have planned. There is a BFD Percussion library in the module already but I can't remember what is included. You can import one-shot samples if necessary though.

[@charlesoverly3472]

Great content as always, Luke. Love the channel. Have you had a look inside the Strata pads? I am wondering if it would be feasible to transplant the triggers into acoustic shells for aesthetic and form factor reasons?

[@TheeDrumWorkshop]

Thanks! I've not opened my own up but I have seen the internals. As far as I know/can tell, the triggers are built onto the bottom plastic plates which are wider than a drum shell, so a straight "drop in" wouldn't be possible like it might with a Roland basket design. I saw a thread on the VDrums forum where someone butchered a pad and transplanted the trigger section, but it looks like they properly cut it out! - www.vdrums.com/forum/advanced/diy/1293674-cannibalized-an-alesis-strata-prime-tom-for-snare-trigger

[@charlesoverly3472]

@@TheeDrumWorkshop Thank you, Luke. Definitely don’t want to have to hack a new kit to bits! I’ve also heard that the Strata is the largest “stock” kit out there even compared to most acoustic-like kits. Did it feel that way in your studio? I’ve got a pretty small space.

[@TheeDrumWorkshop]

@charlesoverly3472 Yeah, the rack is particularly large. You could get away with a smaller footprint with the right combo of smaller stands if you happen to have them. I actually swapped out the left side rack with a short bar which helped, as shown in this video, but it does mean finding an alternative place for the module to go.

[@charlesoverly3472]

@@TheeDrumWorkshop That’s a great idea. It didn’t occur to me until you said it, but the VAD line seems much more compact using the pair of multi-clamp stands. I guess there’s no reason a similar setup couldn’t be configured for the Strata and I could put a new wrap on it. After watching all of your and Justin‘s content on the various mid-range kits, I feel like skipping that step in my e-drum journey might not make sense given my skill level. BTW, your kits are awesome (metal being my favorite) and one of the only reasons I would consider a TD-27 module over this one. Do you have any plans to do some custom Strata kits? I imagine you could go hog wild with three sample layers per instrument! Thank you again.

[@TheeDrumWorkshop]

I have a video on the channel all about ditching your rack if you want some ideas! I'm hoping to make custom kits for the Prime module but at the moment you can't actually export settings on the module, whether that's a backup of trigger settings or kit files. I assume they'll be adding the feature at some point but it isn't there yet for some reason. It's been an odd launch, to be honest - they've got a lot right with this approach but a lot of previous features just don't seem to be in there at the moment.

[@alanvaughan2937]

Great review and once again Alesis has blown it's load to early ......what about the load in times when switching from kit to kit with effects added

[@eDrumsInANutshell]

That was awsome, mate! Thank you! 3500$ ... Again, I will stay with my 4 eDRUMins, 6 Alesis pads, Lemon cymbals, 2x DIY snares, 2x Roland KD-7 :-) and Superior Drummer 3. And since I am as nerdy as you, everthing is dialed in perfectly. Damn, I really have to do a video for the german guys about the eDRUMin and my GAS (gear aquisition syndrome) and the Lemon cymbals. Just puchased 3 cute little 9" splash pads and a 15" china. I recently changed my setup from 2 rack toms to three. So, there is one of to high toms left. What would you do with that pad?

[@sqc7806]

Great review! We're you playing through an amp? If so what was it? I got the Alesis 2500 watt amp and not happy with the sound. I have an older Roland TD set and a Roland amp that has a larger box and sounds great. Interested in your thoughts. Also does it matter which pad one uses for the snare? Thanks Again

[@KevinZ2269]

LOL it’s funny. I’ve seen like 20 reviews on this new set, and all of them made me want it. Until this review LOL. Bummer seems like it has lots of flaws

[@djashjones]

It's hard to find any unbiased review on anything on you tube. Too many shill's

[@TheeDrumWorkshop]

Sorry if I've put a downer on it for you! I would definitely recommend testing it out yourself if you get the chance to, as with any product. There's no guarantee that everyone else will run into the same things I have and going hands-on is the only way to work out if you gel with the "feel" of any kit.

[@TheeDrumWorkshop]

@@djashjones I think there are many reasons for different kinds of videos about products and I don't necessarily think that someone who makes a different kind of video is a shill. There are a few great reviews from people I trust. I also think the way I use or approach a kit is often different to how others might which is why different things come up. But some videos are definitely closer to promo videos than "reviews" which can make sifting through them difficult!

[@djashjones]

@@TheeDrumWorkshop I class you as a power user, therefore i trust you more. The other popular edrum channel is middle of the road type pro's and con's type. Then the shilling type, it's great, blah, blah.

[@Glenndrums]

Are there any plans to do a deep dive review for the Strata Prime?

[@TheeDrumWorkshop]

Potentially down the line. I needed a break from very in-depth reviews after the DWe. I'm aiming to at least do an update after a few more months.

[@aarond33]

Appreciate your review. Interested in uodate on bass drum triggering issue. I am also curious how the runner along the rims holds up aftwr time. Years back i had a dm10 pro, the runner along the rims came off on the snare where i used regularly. ​@TheeDrumWorkshop

[@TheTruth70777]

Just for the sound and feel, should I buy this or the Roland TD27 KV2

[@marknorton2429]

Do you have a review of the new Zildjian kit coming soon?

[@TheeDrumWorkshop]

I've not had any contact with Zildjian so far, so nothing planned as of yet.

[@nakleh]

OH before I forget- I have a question for you If I decided to forego the 8" tom, and put the 10" and 12" up top, and just have the 14" on bottom- will the 10 and 12 fit on the top crossbar together? I can't find this info online anywhere

[@SouthernMaineRemodel]

So 6 months later and now after the release of firmware upgrade version 1.1 in August 2024 and after reading all the comments it appears that several have asked you if you have resolved the triggering issues but you have not responded. Its a great little video for sure but you ought to respond and tidy this omission up since you are setting the bar pretty high here. I know it is not your intention but people are delaying and/or not purchasing this kit based off your remarks I know because I'm one of them.

[@TheeDrumWorkshop]

So far, I haven't completely narrowed it down. It appears that when I'm using a different pedal it happens less often and playing with the two mask settings has helped a bit. However, I've barely had the kit set up since this video which is why I haven't yet made a follow up. It takes up too much space to get it out regularly when I have other projects on. I aim to do an update when I'm able to, but I can't promise when that will be.

[@davo0593]

Hi luke. Will you test the arc cymbals with other modules including the edrumin?

[@davo0593]

And will you open the pads to see how are they inside?

[@emanuelpelide7667]

midi latency millisecond? reach roland midi latency? no positional sensing on snare right?

[@johnfrith7884]

Please Help I’m thinking of switching to an E kit exclusively because I cannot hear my acoustic drums through my in ears and Mics without turning the volume of the music up too loud and further damaging my hearing the bleed is too much even with custom in ear monitors and gunshot headphones over that When I’m just practicing I like to just sit behind the kit with no hearing protection any hearing protection I’ve ever used makes the drum sound crappy so I just play cold turkey. I can’t do this anymore my tinnitus is really bad. I’ve done that through my whole childhood. I’m 44 now I played on the Alesis strata prime at guitar Center, but I could only play on it a little bit with no songs to play along too just drums From what little I played on it I very much liked it Is it safe to assume that if I got an kit with headphones on playing music through with drum-less tracks that I would be able to hear much better and have better clarity and a better experience than my current set up with Drum and Mics what would be the difference between the two in clarity balance of sound with playing along to songs with in ears or headphones in your experience? Also can you make the rims on the Alesis Strata Prime sound like efx cymbals splash/china etc or can they only be made to sound like rim?crossstick clicks THANK YOU to anyone for responding I appreciate it.

[@hoodholmes]

Great review, exactly what I was looking for. Have any of the initial issues you mentioned such as the issue with the module and the inconsistent bass drum been resolved by any firmware updates? Would you advise picking this kit up, I currently have a Roland TD25KV.

[@TheeDrumWorkshop]

Thanks. Currently no, but I haven't spent as much time as I'd have liked behind the kit since this video so that doesn't mean it's not possible. I'll do an update video when I'm able to.

[@aaronsudasna]

Great video, Luke! I was wondering if you have tested the module with other pads/cymbals yet? I’m sure at some point you’ll address this in another video, but wasn’t sure if you’d tried that out yet. 🥂

[@NielsHeusinkveld]

Thanks. I've noticed all cymbal thresholds are broken, you need to hit 3x the set threshold to hear something. At a threshold of 4, soft hihats for example are lost as this is a 12 threshold. How do you find the cymbal edge sensitivity? I find I have to go quite close to minimum (1.0) sensitivity in order to have to hit 'fairly hard' to max it out. I also think I've had some regular hits on snare and kick registering as lower velocity, but I could just be pants.

[@TheeDrumWorkshop]

Interesting, I'll have to look into that more closely! Regarding the edge sensitivity, I didn't notice anything too weird about it but I'll definitely check over it again.

[@gabedestellano]

There's a little bar inside? How late are they open and how big are the drinks?

[@webcamel1]

😅

[@tschaderdstrom2145]

What size drum rug is that? I'm trying to figure out the footprint of this kit for fitting into my music room. Does everything fit on that rug? Would any of the cymbals be hitting the wall if this were put in a corner?

[@King_LD]

Would this work if you live in an apartment on the second floor? Asking mainly because of the floor tom but also in general.?

[@fernandogoncalves7188]

Hi, do you think the strata snare will work with Strike Performance module, I made my own trigger bars, they work great with the module except for the snare,even with DIY 3 cone system.....I am thinking to buy Strata snare from Drum Tec,is not very expensive. Thanks

[@TheeDrumWorkshop]

I haven't tested it yet but I plan to in the future, along with testing the pads on other modules. Not sure when it'll be but stay tuned.

[@fernandogoncalves7188]

I have emailed Drum Tec ,and the strata snare , indeed works well with the strike performance module, Thanks

[@shackelfro]

Thanks for the very informative video! I'm trying to decide at the moment between kits in this sort of price range. Do you (or anyone else in the comments section) have thoughts about how this compares to other kits in this general price range, the roland td27kv2, td50, vads, efnotes etc? I'm down a bit of a rabbit hole, as to whether the digital snare and cymbals are things I actually "need" versus are marketing hype. Any thoughts appreciated!

[@maddzyreviews6612]

Hey mate I have a Alesis nitro max and I’m trying to find another good pair of headphones, I see that you’re using in ears. Are they good to use if so what’s the brand and I will try to find a pair

[@millerjimd]

1:13 drumroll please....

[@ZZ_mangled]

Very funny

[@plazima]

Hey Luke, can you help me get a snare sound I’m looking for from my td17?

[@orenji13]

Alesis, say thank you to him for discovering problems!

[@oldcmputer]

I thought the loose cymbals were normal but I got that same issue on my roland kit :( First E-kit. Is it better for the tom/snare mesh heads to use nylon tips or am I fine w/ a fresh pair or wood tips? I don't use felt on the kick but not sure about sticks on toms for longevity / durability.

[@TheeDrumWorkshop]

I wouldn't worry about wood tips, I've used them for years with no issues. If you have any chips in the sticks or bits begin to fray, that's where the problems might come in. I've actually had a nylon tip damage a head before because it had a little sharp point at the end that hadn't been smoothed over. It caught the mesh and unpicked it a bit which then went on to get worse. If I was to go with nylon tips, I'd run some sandpaper over the tip to make sure.

[@klopey8852]

just got this kit and when i hit my snare and kick drum together the kick drum sound doesn’t come through