Alesis announced today that they are now shipping the Trigger I/O, USB/MIDI, pad trigger interface.

The Trigger I/O uses electronic triggers placed on traditional acoustic percussion sources (such as drum heads or cymbals) or electronic drum pad triggers, and converts them into MIDI note messages. With MIDI and USB 1.1 Plug and Play connectivity and ten inputs, an artist can expand performance options exponentially – playing sounds on synthesizers, drum modules, or even a computer.

The intuitive, cross-platform interface was designed with the user in mind. Set-up is quick and editing is easy. The Trigger I/O is not only for percussionists, but also for all musicians and producers. Now anyone can incorporate computers, samplers, and synthesizers into live performances and studio recording sessions, with one powerful tool.

The Trigger I/O’s dual-zone inputs select two different surface areas of the percussion instrument. For example, hit the center of the snare and it reproduces flawlessly; a rim shot cracks like a rim shot. These zone inputs are fully compatible with acoustic and pad triggers from many popular manufacturers (visit www.alesis.com for a complete list).

The Trigger I/O has 20 programmable presets to store and recall perfect sound combinations in an instant. A hi-hat input lets musicians switch effortlessly between on/off and continuous control modes, while the unique up/down foot-switch input selects kits remotely, without ever missing a beat.

The Trigger I/O is versatile, quick and responsive, with user-adjustable trigger sensitivity settings. Users can assign MIDI channels, note numbers, crosstalk, velocity curve, threshold settings, re-trigger times, and pad types. The Trigger I/O even has mounting holes for an optional drum stand, so it’s at home in any environment.

Trigger I/O comes bundled with BFD Lite software, featuring a full range of professional-quality drum libraries. The software’s multi-velocity kits, customizable drum sounds, microphone mixing features and preset grooves help every percussion artist to realize their musical vision.