Hey all,

I'm wondering if I can use the Alesis ControlPad with session drummer 3 using the MIDI connectivity?



Thanks in advance 

Yes

+1 Yep!

OK This is good. I also bought a ControlPad, though I have yet to use it with Sonar.  
   I am new to SD3 and wondering about using SD3 and the Step Sequencer to create a scratch track and then another midi track of "played fills" (me playing fills on the ControlPad). Anyone already done this? I'm sure I will work it out, but would appreciate tips & advice.
   Having just gone through a thread RE usb midi devices not creating issues with my usb audio/interface, I am also, wondering whether putting the Control Pad on a hub with my mouse would be an issue. I have 4 usb ports and all are used.
1. Tascam us1641, 2. usb mouse, 3. usb3 external library drive, and 4. Virus Ti2 (which I guess I will only be using in a plugin sense vs an audio interface).
I understand that I don't have to have them all on, since I am working one part-track at a time.
 
Thanks Michael

The control pad has both MIDI and USB, You could plug it into the Tascam MIDI in jack instead. I would try both to see which has the least amount of latency. I too have the 1641 and I have to bypass all efxs bins while tracking.

Thanks sock monkey! I will keep your tip in mind. I am working on another way to plug my gear in and keep the wires from being a bother and the cats off or away from them, too! For awhile my small spare bedroom has to do and I am used to a mixer and patchbay, both of which I will replace. For the moment, it feels a bit like balancing my dinner on my lap at a crowded party! Though, it is ofen humorously awkward, I'm OK with this temporary closet phase. I'm in the habit of doing "one thing" (drums or guitars or vocals or keys) for a bit, and don't mind moving things around.
    Michael

Thanks all.
As I read through the comments, I can connect it using USB as well. Will it then be recognized as a midi device too?

 The best thing to do is try it and if it doesn't work then come here and we'll help ya out. But first at least hook it all up and follow the direction in the help menu. You question is like getting in a brand new car and asking if it will run before you even turned the key... :)   

cargoX


Thanks all.
As I read through the comments, I can connect it using USB as well. Will it then be recognized as a midi device too?

Yes.
As Cactus said, try it out.
You can download the manual here:
http://www.alesis.com/controlpad?tt=5
That should give you some ideas while you are waiting for it.
Also, get a pair of these:
http://www.musiciansfriend.com/drums-percussion/zildjian-anti-vibe-drumsticks
I like them for the rubber surfaces of my ControlPad and DM6Kit.
This stand is also worth considering:
http://www.guitarcenter.com/Simmons-Pad-Support-Stand-105143994-i1476506.gc
Much better than a tabletop.
The ControlPad is a pretty slick little unit.
I use mine in conjunction with the DM6 (both connected via USB) to give me a total of 16 drums.
With the mapping options, it makes for a very flexible setup.