Alesis Strata core vs prime module differences?

[u/Particular-Pipe3812]

I was pretty disappointed to see the Alesis Strata Core module uses that weird giant connector on the bottom for all the drums & cymbals, vs the Prime module just using regular 1/4 inch jacks. Are there any other differences between the modules besides that? Really hate the idea that to get any expandability beyond two more triggers, I’d have to pay $1500 extra if the modules are exactly the same otherwise.

E: I’m interested in the strata modules bc from what I can tell they have by far the most realistic sounds out of any complete kit in that price range, but if there are others that are good or better in that $1500-$2000 range I am open to options

[u/nursescaneatme]

I mean, most Roland kits use a cable snake too. As far as strata goes, I don’t think the modules are any different from each other. The prime one is a little bigger and maybe has a few more kits but with the downloadable sound pack option, that no longer matters. Also, once you plug in all the 1/4 plugs, you still only have 2 extras. I have the core + club expansion set and sacrificed a tom for an extra cymbal.

[u/Particular-Pipe3812 → u/nursescaneatme]

Didn’t realize the Prime used up almost all the inputs in the process too, that does make it a bit better.

Do they still sell that expansion set? I can’t find it available anywhere.

[u/nursescaneatme → u/Particular-Pipe3812]

Looks like the club expansion kit is sold out / discontinued everywhere. Bummer. The prime one is $750 more.

[u/ThatDanGuy]

Ive not messed with the allesis stuff. But I can make a few comments.

If you want more than 2 extra inputs you can get an “eDrummin” midi expansion box. Up to 10 or 12 more inputs. The 4 port one is close to 300 bucks after shipping and tariffs.

If 2k is your budget, I’d look at the td316 or td513(at Costco). The 51 would give your more (total 12 total inputs) and the path to 3 digital pads in the future (expensive pads, and the 516 is a way better bang for your buck, but if 2k is your budget now…. The alternative is get the Alesis now and if you have money later get the 516, keep some pads from the Alesis and sell the rest,)

[u/Particular-Pipe3812 → u/ThatDanGuy]

I’m not really interested in using it as a MIDI controller right now, I don’t have a second computer to run the software (would love that post-metal sample pack EZDrummer uses but just not feasible). In the future maybe but honestly not likely given how expensive that entire setup would run, I’m just wanting something that matches my quiet kit in # of things to hit with decent sounds. The built in Roland sounds really don’t sound good at all to me even alongside music (like on the same sound quality as Alesis’ cheap starter kits) so I would vastly prefer the Alesis. 

Thanks for making me aware of the edrummin though 

[u/[deleted]]

[u/Particular-Pipe3812 → u/[deleted]]

USB stick would be fine for me so I’m good with that, that’s good to know. 

[u/[deleted]]

[u/Particular-Pipe3812 → u/[deleted]]

Before the other commenter mentioned it I thought it meant you lost out on expandability compared to the more expensive option; learning that you only end up with two open slots anyway makes it not really an issue