How To Optimize Crosstalk, Sensitivity, and Triggering

  1. Make sure your SamplePad firmware is up to date.

    Visit the Docs & Downloads section of the SamplePad Pro product page on the Alesis website to download and install the latest version if you haven't already. Please not that the firmware update only applies to the Sample Pad Pro. Do not attempt the update if your Sample Pad Pro is already running a firmware version higher than v1.0.19.
    Sample Pad Pro 

  2. Adjust the Sensitivity parameter on the SamplePad.  

    The number you set the Sensitivity to determines how hard the pads must be hit on the SamplePad Pro before a sample triggers. A lower number requires the pads to be hit harder before a sample is triggered. The higher the Sensitivity is set, the lighter the force required to trigger. Many players use the SamplePad Pro to play loops, or trigger percussion samples. Since these applications do not typically require or benefit from nuanced playing, we recommend setting the Sensitivity to a value around 2. This should allow you to play effectively without triggering other pads unintentionally (crosstalk).

  3. Change the surface you are playing on.

    If you're using the SamplePad Pro on a flat surface such as a table, you may experience increased crosstalk. Setting the Sensitivity around 2 should prevent this for the most part, but some surfaces or situations may not be ideal to play on. The Alesis SamplePad Pro is an entirely self-contained electronic percussion instrument that can be affected by excessive vibration. For performing, most players position SamplePad Pro in a typical snare drum stand or percussion mount. This greatly reduces vibration and also makes the SamplePad Pro easy to integrate into your existing percussion setup.