The Alesis Nitro Mesh electronic drum kit has quickly become a popular choice for both beginners and seasoned drummers. Its blend of affordability, quality features, and mesh heads sets it apart in the crowded market of electronic drum sets. This comprehensive review will dive deep into its features, performance, and overall value, answering many common questions potential buyers might have.
What Makes the Alesis Nitro Mesh Stand Out?
The Nitro Mesh's most significant advantage lies in its mesh heads. Unlike rubber pads found in cheaper kits, mesh heads provide a more realistic and comfortable playing experience, closer to the feel of acoustic drums. This translates to better rebound and quieter playing, ideal for practice sessions in apartments or at night. The kit also boasts a surprisingly robust sound module, offering a wide range of drum and percussion sounds, along with built-in play-along tracks and recording capabilities. Its compact and relatively lightweight design makes it easy to set up, transport, and store.
Is the Alesis Nitro Mesh Good for Beginners?
Absolutely! The Nitro Mesh is a fantastic entry-level kit. Its intuitive design makes it easy to learn on, and the mesh heads help develop proper playing technique from the start. The included lessons and play-along tracks offer a fun and engaging way to improve drumming skills. The affordable price point also makes it a low-risk investment for aspiring drummers.
How Does the Alesis Nitro Mesh Sound?
While not on par with high-end electronic kits, the Nitro Mesh's sound module provides a surprisingly rich and versatile array of sounds. The sounds are well-sampled and offer plenty of options for different musical genres. While some users may choose to upgrade the sounds with custom samples down the line, the built-in sounds are more than adequate for most players, especially beginners.
What are the Pros and Cons of the Alesis Nitro Mesh?
Pros:
- Mesh Heads: Superior feel and response compared to rubber pads.
- Affordable Price: Excellent value for money, especially for beginners.
- Compact Design: Easy to set up, transport, and store.
- Good Sound Module: Offers a wide variety of sounds and features.
- Built-in Lessons and Play-Along Tracks: Helpful for learning and practicing.
Cons:
- Plastic Cymbals: While functional, the plastic cymbals lack the feel and expressiveness of higher-end rubber or mesh cymbals.
- Sound Module Limitations: May not satisfy advanced players seeking highly customizable sound shaping.
- Occasional Quality Control Issues: Like any mass-produced product, there can be occasional reports of minor defects.
Is the Alesis Nitro Mesh Durable?
Generally, the Alesis Nitro Mesh is considered durable enough for regular use. The mesh heads are surprisingly resilient, and the hardware is sturdy enough for home use. However, like any drum kit, it's important to handle it with care to avoid damage.
What Accessories Do I Need for the Alesis Nitro Mesh?
While the kit comes with everything you need to get started, you may want to consider adding a few accessories to enhance your playing experience. A good drum throne, headphones (essential for quiet practice), and a drum rug can significantly improve comfort and sound isolation.
How Does the Alesis Nitro Mesh Compare to Other Electronic Drum Sets in its Price Range?
The Alesis Nitro Mesh often tops comparisons within its price range due to its superior mesh heads. Competitors often feature rubber pads, which offer a less realistic feel. The Nitro Mesh's feature set – including the lessons and play-along tracks – also provides extra value.
Can I Use the Alesis Nitro Mesh for Gigging?
While technically possible, the Nitro Mesh is better suited for home practice and smaller gigs. For larger professional gigs, a more robust and feature-rich kit might be preferred. The plastic cymbals, in particular, may not hold up to the rigors of heavy gigging.
This in-depth review should equip you with the information you need to decide if the Alesis Nitro Mesh Electronic Drum Set is the right choice for you. Remember to check reviews from other users to get a broader perspective. Happy drumming!
