Alesis Kitstream | Frequently Asked Questions

TABLE OF CONTENTS

• What is the Kitstream?  
• Are extra microphones required to use the drum kit?
• Can the input jacks be split for drum triggers?
• Can using the Kitstream benefit my live performance?
• Do I need to use Mesh Heads like the ones featured on Alesis's other drum kits?
• What kind of headphones should I use with this module for monitoring?
• Do I need to adjust my technique when using the Kitstream?
• Why am I getting multiple sounds triggering at once?
• How many samples are built into the Alesis Kitstream?
• How do you record the Kitstream?
• I need help setting up the Kitstream
• Can drum triggers also be used with the TRS ports?
• Is there a passthrough mode for my direct drum sound for recording without the effects and sounds?
• Can personal presets be saved to the module?
• Can the module be used with BFD?
• What software is included with the Kitstream?

What is the Kitstream?  

The Alesis Kitstream is a hybrid drum module designed to bring the flexibility of electronic drums to your acoustic drum kit. It allows drummers to retain the natural feel, power, and response of their favorite acoustic setup while gaining access to the sound-shaping capabilities of an electronic system.

Using microphones and drum triggers, the Kitstream captures your performance and allows you to shape your sound in real time. From subtle enhancements to more dramatic sound transformations, you can customize your drum sound with effects, processing, and triggered samples—all within a streamlined, easy-to-use setup.

Are extra microphones required to use the drum kit?

No. The Kitstream features a built-in, dual-mounted stereo microphone system that captures the natural sound of your acoustic drum kit for recording. The mounting assembly also functions as a kick drum trigger, allowing you to trigger replace sounds for your kick drum with a bank of kick samples.

Can the input jacks be split for drum triggers?

Yes. The inputs can be expanded using TRS splitter cables, allowing you to connect additional compatible drum triggers, depending on your configuration.

Can using the Kitstream benefit my live performance?

Absolutely. The Kitstream gives you greater control over your acoustic drum sound by providing access to effects and processing, including studio-quality compression and reverb. You can shape your sound directly from the module and send your output to the venue's sound system for a more consistent, controlled drum sound across different performance spaces.

Do I need to use Mesh Heads like the ones featured on Alesis's other drum kits?

No. The Kitstream is designed to work with your existing acoustic drum kit, so you can continue using the drum heads you prefer. There is no need to switch to mesh heads.

What kind of headphones should I use with this module for monitoring?

We recommend the Alesis DRP100 headphones, which are designed to provide effective sound isolation from external noise. This allows you to monitor your drum performance clearly and hear the processed sounds coming directly from the Kitstream module.

Do I need to adjust my technique when using the Kitstream?

No. The Kitstream is designed to accommodate your natural playing style, allowing you to maintain your usual technique and playing dynamics without needing to adapt to an electronic drum setup.

Why am I getting multiple sounds triggering at once?

Unintended triggering can result from several factors, including retrigger settings, crosstalk between triggers, and microphone gain levels.

For optimal performance, review your trigger sensitivity and retrigger settings, adjust microphone gain as needed, and ensure that microphones are positioned to minimize unwanted bleed from other drums and sound sources. Avoid aiming multiple microphones directly at one another or positioning them in ways that increase unwanted interaction.

How many samples are built into the Alesis Kitstream?

Within the module, you will find the following sounds, kits and effects-

• 500 onboard sounds, 99 slots for USB-C imported samples (44MB)
• 50 preset kits, 100 user kits
• 13 reverbs, 26 FX, comp+EQ

How do you record the Kitstream?

The Kitstream functions as a USB audio interface, allowing you to capture your performances directly on a compatible computer or mobile device.

Whether you're recording ideas in a digital audio workstation (DAW), such as Ableton Live Lite, or capturing audio for livestreaming, the Kitstream supports recording workflows that can include a stereo mix of your acoustic drums and separate processed audio stems, depending on your routing and recording configuration.

I need help setting up the Kitstream

Can drum triggers also be used with the TRS ports?

Yes. The Kitstream's TRS inputs can be used with compatible drum triggers. This can be particularly useful if you're incorporating triggers from other Alesis electronic drum kits into your acoustic setup.

Check trigger compatibility and input configuration requirements when planning your setup.

Is there a passthrough mode for my direct drum sound for recording without the effects and sounds?

The Kitstream is designed to combine the natural sound of your acoustic drums with electronic sounds and processing. The available routing and output options determine how you can capture the unprocessed microphone signal separately from the processed sound.

Can personal presets be saved to the module?

Yes. The Kitstream allows you to save and customize user kits using your preferred sounds and processing settings, including effects, reverb, compression, and EQ.

The module includes 32 GB of storage, providing space for your personal configurations and supported imported content.

Can the module be used with BFD?

The Kitstream can receive MIDI input from external trigger inputs and transmit MIDI data to a connected computer for use with compatible drum software. However, the Kitstream's trigger inputs do not currently have a supported mapping within BFD, so additional configuration may be required to achieve the desired functionality.

What software is included with the Kitstream?

The Kitstream includes Ableton Live Lite, giving you a starting point for recording performances, experimenting with sounds, and creating music in a digital audio workstation.

To access the software, register your Kitstream product and redeem the included license through the inMusic Software Center, following the registration instructions provided with the product.