Alesis SR18 (Pt.1) How to write your own basic pattern

This is the 1st of my series of "How to" videos on programming the Alesis SR18 drum machine. I aim to show that the SR18 is so much more than a preset drum machine. So if you don't know how to program/write your own drum patterns, customise your drum kit and bass, write & add an accompanying bass track, write your own drum fills and put the lot together into an entire song, these videos will hopefully be of help to you.

[lumberpilot]

I've had this little box for a year just using the presets. This video is a game changer for me.

[TrinityMartin]

I used Zoom 234 drum machines since 98 and wrote hundreds of songs on them. I absolutely adored them, but they have been long discontinued. It became increasing difficult to find a used one that wasn't broken or didn't break within just a few weeks, was frustrating. Since I am not really a fan of building drum tracks using DAWs and software drums, I FINALLY pulled the trigger and decided to try out a different physical drum machine. I decided on the Alesis SR-18. An old dog learning a new trick about almost 25 years isn't always easy! So these videos have been a tremendous help. Great job, and thank you!

[tweakthatproductions]

Thanks so much! I used to be in a band back in the 90’s. Had the Alesis SR16 & a Boss drum machine I programmed for the band. I totally forgot how to do it. My drum machines broke & I got married, had to forgo my musician lifestyle. Just now getting back to being solo again & I got an Alesis SR16 & the SR18! I am in heaven again! Thx so much I am a happy one man band programming drums & having a lovely time!

[lindseyjohn]

This is very helpful. Me and a friend of mine have had this drum machine for 10 years and have not figured out how it works. When i first got it, there was no video or a good video out on how to use it. Now I've got a good idea on what to do. I've saved all 3 of your video's. Now to the shed. Thank you so much.

[musicismyreligion]

Thank you. Yes please keep these clear and concise SR18 tutorials coming.

[michaelskasick]

Finally getting around to seriously deep diving into your series. As a solo singer/songwriter, I invested in this thing to create everything completely. Thank you for being so clear and concise!

[jeremytate]

I like the branding. You really take the 80's man thing seriously. The titles and video quality look like it's straight out of the early 80's!

[glevernmv]

Finally I found your lesson. So many people have SR-18 lessons on you-tube and it's a lot of talking and not explaining anything. Thanks for posting this it is very helpful.

[caylenwill]

Very helpful. I was trying to figure out how to make tracks for my church. For songs and praise breaks. Now I have them thanks to you! So thank for helping me it really helped/helps a lot.

[johndavidpeer]

So, my SR-18 started freezing up...came to yt for fix...added batteries, it works! So need new adapter is my guess.
Then I saw this vid, and I finally learned to program a beat...after having it for 10 years, lol!
I just use presets, but this will be even more awesome, thx!

[teetee]

Examples like this video should have been at the beginning of all Sr 18 Alesis purchases. Best video to date Great Job. Guess I will take it out of the box now and start over.

[christophergauthreaux]

Tremendously helpful, thank you so much for tanking your time to break it down.

[GregWorzel]

Great tutorial. Very informative. Under the quantize part of this recording, I think what he meant by "one note and two bars" was 16th notes.

[thatpianochick]

This was the video I sorely needed! Much appreciated!

[EdistoDavid]

Thank you so much. My first pattern is named, "Dear Amy." I will be watching the next ones on the SR-18!

[tazwoh]

This is a great tutorial, Just obtained one of these for our 10 piece brass ensemble and will certainly use the rest of your tutorials.

[rufusemmanuel]

Thank you sir. I had one of these several years ago. I just decided to purchase another one. Your video was extremely helpful. Thank you.

[palmerize]

Much appreciated indeed !!! I haven't used the Alesis drum machines since I had the HR-16 and MMT-8 back in the day. The SR-18 has really stepped things up. ;-)

[Stoic-liege]

It definitely is a piece of equipment, easy does it for me l just got the drum machine pattern book to use with it just started today its going to be along process but it will be good once i get the hang of it, thanks for people like you explaining this stuff.

[totallyfrozen]

My first drum machine was the Alesis HR:16. I later paired it with the HR:16-B.
I skipped the SR-16 and have been shopping for an affordable drum machine now. It’s nice to see the control design from the HR:16 was carried over to this, more versatile unit. I think I’ll pick one of these up.