Nitro Ultimate Kit | Frequently Asked Questions

TABLE OF CONTENTS

• What are the differences between the Nitro Max Kit and the Nitro Ultimate Kit?
• What is included with the Nitro Ultimate Kit?
• What software comes with the Nitro Ultimate Kit?
• Can I expand this kit with more drum triggers?
• What is the size of the kit when it is fully assembled?
• Can I use my own pads with the Nitro Ultimate module?
• Is there a recommended type of drumstick I should use with mesh pads?
• Is there a recommended type of stand I should use with the hi-hat setup?
• How do I setup the hi-hat?
• Is the Hi-Hat control a continuous signal?
• Which pad is the Hi-Hat pad?
• What sample content is included with the Nitro Ultimate module?
• What features will help me learn drums?
• Can I play along with songs on my phone/tablet/computer?
• How do I connect my device via Bluetooth?
• Can the Nitro Ultimate drum module connect to a computer to trigger drum software?
• How do I adjust the volume of each individual pad?
• How to change the Sound/Voice of a specific Drum or Cymbal?
• Can I reset the module to its factory default settings?
• My headphones have a built-in microphone. Can I use these with my module?
• Can I fold this kit away for storage or travel?
• Should I set up the Nitro Ultimate Kit on a rug?

What are the differences between the Nitro Max Kit and the Nitro Ultimate Kit?

As the pinnacle of the Alesis Nitro family, Nitro Ultimate delivers high-quality sound, real-feel response, and modern functionality for the ultimate drumming experience.

The Nitro Ultimate is the first in the Nitro line to include a hi-hat controller that is designed to function seamlessly on a traditional hi-hat stand for an authentic, familiar feel. By using your own hi-hat stand, you can play with greater nuance and dynamic control—just like on an acoustic kit—with the comfort and responsiveness of a setup you already know, instead of adapting to an unfamiliar setup or floor pedal.

The Nitro Ultimate's dual-zone drums and cymbals let you play naturally with full expression. This super-responsive technology allows for more advanced drumming techniques.

The Nitro Ultimate also features 52 kits and over 640 sounds custom-made for the Alesis Nitro Ultimate Module.

What is included with the Nitro Ultimate Kit?

The Alesis Nitro Ultimate Kit includes everything you need to make a complete drum kit:

• Nitro Ultimate Drum Module
• 10" Dual-Zone Mesh Snare Pad
•  (3) 8" Mesh Tom pads
• 10" Hi-Hat Pad w/ Choke
• (2) 10" Crash Pad w/ Choke
• 10" Ride Pad w/ Choke
• 8" Kick Pad Tower
• Kick Pedal with Kick Drum Beater
• Hi-Hat Control module
• 4-Post Steel Rack
  • Left Middle Support Post
  • Right Middle Support Post
  • (2) Outer Vertical Posts
  • Middle Crossbar
  • (2) Outer Crossbars
  • Snare Sidebar and Snare Clamp
• Cable Snake
• Cable Wrap Strips
• (3) Cymbal Support Arms 
  • 18.1”/460mm (ride)
  • (2) 14.2”/360mm (crash)
• (4) L-Rods
• (7) Cymbal and Tom Clamps
• Clutch for Hi-Hat pad*
• Drum Key
• (2) Drum Sticks
• Power Adapter
• Nitro Ultimate Module Quickstart Guide
• Kit Assembly Guide and Box Contents
• Drumeo Lessons Card
• Safety & Warranty Manual

* Hi-hat stand not included.

What software comes with the Nitro Ultimate Kit?

The Nitro Ultimate includes an incredible software package featuring 90-days of Unlimited Drum Lessons and BFD Player with two expansion packs – BFD Core Library and Dark Mahogany. With the Nitro Ultimate you can learn how to play drums or improve your drumming skills with Drumeo ®. Those looking to browse a larger catalog of digital sounds can use the BFD Player for even more professional-level sounds. We've constructed a video playlist that will walk you through setting up your kit with each of these software options. Check out that playlist here!

Can I expand this kit with more drum triggers?

Yes! An additional tom pad can be added to the Nitro Ultimate drum module with the Tom 4 input on the rear of the module. This will need a ¼” TRS cable.

What is the size of the kit when it is fully assembled?

The size of the completed kit will be around 4' x 3'. As with all of our kits, the arrangement is fully customizable, and the exact size can vary with different playing styles and personal preferences.

Can I use my own pads with the Nitro Ultimate module?

While other standard or dual-zone single pads will likely work, the Nitro Ultimate module is configured to respond optimally with the included drum kit. You could potentially use third-party standard triggers; however, since other manufacturers design triggers specifically for different drum modules, not all triggers may respond as expected.

Is there a recommended type of drumstick I should use with mesh pads?

Although some companies make sticks specifically marketed toward mesh drumheads, it is not necessary to use a specific style of drumstick with mesh heads. Any wooden or plastic-tipped drumstick will not damage the drum head. Unlike acoustic drums, the style of the stick will not affect the sound produced.

If you would like to use a set of drumsticks other than those supplied with the kit, we recommend using a new set of sticks that have not been chipped, worn down, or otherwise damaged from playing an acoustic drum kit. The irregularities on a damaged drumstick can pull at the material on the mesh drumheads and cause it to deteriorate which over time may puncture the head.

Avoid using felt beaters or mallets. The friction caused by the felt can wear the mesh over time.

Is there a recommended type of stand I should use with the hi-hat setup?

We would encourage the use of any hi-hat stand that you are currently using with another kit, as the kit's setup is universal and does not require a specific stand or setup to begin playing. For players who have exclusively used hi-hat pedal setup as seen on our other kits, we would suggest a heavier feeling stand so that your transition into a closed position does not require as much force.

How do I setup the Hi-hat?

To start, you will need a hi-hat stand. Any hi-hat stand you have should be adequate.

1. Begin by removing the clutch, which will expose only the pull rod and the empty hi-hat basket. If your basket includes a felt or rubber spacer, you may leave it on the stand. Your only other concern should be that the stand is level. If this is a concern, most stands should have a leveling screw to adjust the angle for stability.
   
   
   
2. Next, take your hi-hat controller and place it over the pull rod, lowering it to rest flat on the basket.
   
   
   
   
   Ensure that the spring-loaded piston is facing upwards. It is important to note that this hi-hat controller is designed for free rotation, so no additional securing is necessary.
   
3. Following this, we will attach the clutch to the hi-hat cymbal.
   Ensure that felt is present on both sides of the cymbal, and tighten the nuts on both ends to secure the clutch. While some movement is acceptable, it is advisable to keep this snug to prevent cymbal pad rotation.
   
   
   
4. At this stage, we will lower the hi-hat and the secured clutch onto the pull rod. If the clutch is not properly tightened, the weight of the hi-hat cymbal will compress the piston on the controller. Rather than tightening the hi-hat clutch at this point, our objective is to elevate the cymbal so that the piston is nearly fully extended, ensuring that we do not lose contact with the piston entirely.
   
   
   
   
5. The most accurate hi-hat response will be achieved when your cymbal is secured at the upper limit of the piston’s range.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
6. After connecting your cable snake to the back of the module, identify the following cables: one is designated as Hi Hat, and the other as Hi Hat Control. The Hi Hat cable should be inserted into the cymbal pad, while the Control cable connects to the controller’s 1/4" input.

From a technical standpoint, your hi-hat should be functioning properly at this stage; however, it is not unusual to experience some pad rotation, especially during intense playing. To address this rotation, please try the following tips:

• Start by ensuring that your pull rod is securely twisted to the right, or in a clockwise direction. The base of this pull rod is threaded, and you may notice rotation if it is not adequately tightened.
  
• If manual tightening proves insufficient, you may employ pliers or vice grips, taking care to avoid any damage to the pull rod.
• Alternatively, if tools are not at your disposal, you can utilize the hi-hat cymbal itself by tightening the clutch and then rotating the entire hi-hat clockwise to secure the threads of the pull rod.
  
• Once this is accomplished, you may need to adjust the orientation of your cymbal to face you.

If your pull rod is fully tightened yet you still encounter spinning hi-hats, it is recommended to examine your clutch. If the clutch is not sufficiently tightened on the hi-hat cymbal, the cymbal may rotate independently, even if all components on the stand are secure.

Once all adjustments have been made correctly, you can expect to experience a highly smooth and responsive hi-hat control.

For a video guide to this setup, please see:  

Is the Hi-Hat control a continuous signal?

The Hi-Hat control included with the Nitro Ultimate Kit is a continuous variable type pedal. This setup allows for open, half-open, and closed hi-hat sounds, and will also allow for "chick" and "splash" sounds when the pedal is pressed down and released without striking the hi-hat cymbal pad.

Which pad is the Hi-Hat pad?

The Hi-Hat pad is labeled on the underside of the pad via a sticker. It will be the only pad that fits the clutch.

What sample content is included with the Nitro Ultimate module?

The Nitro Ultimate module comes complete with 36 ready-to-play classic, modern and BFD kits. These kits and their component drums can be mixed and matched for maximum flexibility! The USB/MIDI connection allows MIDI information to be transferred between the module and the computer, so while it will not allow for audio file upload or transfer, it will allow for the module to send MIDI information to the computer to trigger your favorite DAW or virtual instrument. The new Bluetooth functionality will allow you to stream music into your Nitro Ultimate Module so you can play along effortlessly!

What features will help me learn drums?

The Nitro Ultimate module features three different learning modes for developing your skills and becoming a better drummer. Start by pressing the Mode button until the LED next to the bottom row of text is lit, and then choose from one of three learning mode buttons:

• Beat (BEA) - This mode is for the snare pad only and helps develop timing, meter, and basic patterns.
• Rhythm (RHM) - Rhythm mode expands the learning environment to the entire kit and helps develop coordination and timing with the entire kit.
• Pattern (PTN) - This mode adds backing tracks for practice playing with accompanying instruments.

Choose a pattern using the - and + buttons and press Start/Stop to begin. The pattern will count off and then repeat for you to follow along.

To help with the learning process, every practice is recorded and scored by default. If you wish to practice without being scored, use the Play/Practice button to begin the sequence.

Can I play along with songs on my phone/tablet/computer?

Yes, the Nitro Ultimate module features brand new Bluetooth connectivity in addition to a 1/8" (6.35mm) Aux input to allow you to connect a phone or other device for playback. To balance the levels, use the Volume knob on the Nitro module and the volume controls on your device.

How do I connect my device via Bluetooth?

1. Press and release the Power button to power on the Nitro Ultimate drum module. When no Bluetooth device is connected, the Bluetooth button LED will be off. 
2. Press the Bluetooth button to enter pairing mode. The Bluetooth button LED will flash. 
3. Navigate to your device’s Bluetooth settings and select Alesis Nitro Ultimate. Once your device has been paired, the Bluetooth button LED will be fully lit.
   Note: If the Bluetooth button is pressed again, pairing mode will be canceled, and the LED will return to the previous state (paired with the previous device or no device). 

To disconnect a paired device, press and hold the Bluetooth button again.

Can the Nitro Ultimate drum module connect to a computer to trigger drum software?

There is a USB/MIDI connection for use with virtual instruments and recording software. It is class-compliant which means that it will work with any modern Mac or PC without the need to download any software or drivers.

How do I adjust the volume of each individual pad?

1. Make sure the module is in Normal mode (top Mode LED is lit).
2. Hit the pad whose settings you want to adjust.
3. Press the Voice button.
4. Press the Voice button repeatedly until "VOL" is displayed
5. Use the – and + buttons to adjust the value.

To save your settings:

1. Press Save.
2. Use the – and + buttons to select the User Kit slot you want to save it to (33 -48).
3. Press Save again.
   
   

To cancel a change before saving, press Kit, Voice, or Song.

How to change the Sound/Voice of a specific Drum or Cymbal?

1. Make sure the module is in Normal mode (top Mode LED is lit).
2. Hit the pad whose settings you want to adjust.
3. Press the Voice button.
4. Press – / + buttons to change a sound.
5.  Use the – and + buttons to adjust the value.

To save your settings:

1. Press Save.
2. Use the – and + buttons to select the User Kit slot you want to save it to (33 -48).
3. Press Save again.

To cancel a change before saving, press Kit, Voice, or Song.

Can I reset the module to its factory default settings?

Yes. Hold the + and - buttons simultaneously while powering on the unit. The screen will show "RST---" for one second and then the module will restore to the factory default settings and be ready to use.

My headphones have a built-in microphone. Can I use these with my module?

Headphones that feature a built-in microphone have a 'TRRS jack' may not work properly with the Nitro Ultimate module. The TRRS headphone jack features an extra channel which may prevent it from lining up properly inside the headphone port on the module and can cause audio dropouts or incomplete signals. Standard studio headphones which feature a 'TRS' headphone jack are required for a consistent and reliable connection.

Can I fold this kit away for storage or travel?

Absolutely! If the crossbars connected to the two center posts are loosened, the kit can be "folded" to make it easier for travel. When folded, the dimensions are around 36” x 23” x 12”. (Height x Width x Depth). This estimate is based on lowering the drums as much as possible and pushing the rack together.

Should I set up the Nitro Ultimate Kit on a rug?

A rug is not technically required; however, most drummers will use one by default to prevent the kick, pedals, or entire kit from shifting during play. When using any drum kit on a bare floor, the force of playing can cause some pieces to move (usually the kick pedal and pad). Arranging the kit on a rug or carpet is a regular solution to this.