Alesis SamplePad 4/Pro

A powerful box of tricks for drummers and percussionists, the Alesis SamplePad 4 allows you to play any sample, alter its tuning, add reverb, and more. This compact instrument features four responsive, LED-illuminated rubber pads and 25 built-in sounds in 10 preset kits. Building on the success of its predecessors, the PercPad and original SamplePad, the SamplePad 4 adds the ability to play user-treated samples—and an SD card socket that lets you upload your own. The LCD segment, also new to this model, offers intuitive navigation and displays voice names, sound location, and various control parameters.

For more pads, more sounds, and more creative potential, upgrade to the SamplePad Pro. Along with eight responsive, velocity-sensitive pads, you’ll get two additional inputs for drum pads and two more for kick drum and hi-hat pedals. More than 200 drum, cymbal, and percussion sounds are arranged into 10 preset kits for instant access during your performance. Both the SamplePad 4 and the Pro can accept an SD or SDHC card up to 32 gigs (not included), enough to store 512 samples and 89 kits.