The Simmons SD350 is a full-size, 5-piece electronic drum kit designed for practice, rehearsals, and recording. It features mesh-head pads for realistic feel and nuanced sound, offering a variety of drum kits and effects at an affordable price point. Ideal for drummers seeking a convenient and versatile setup, the SD350 delivers quality performance and accessibility for musicians of all skill levels.
1.1 Overview of the Simmons SD350 Electronic Drum Kit
The Simmons SD350 is a full-size, 5-piece electronic drum kit featuring mesh-head pads for a realistic drumming experience. Designed for rehearsals, practice, and recording, it offers 170 custom drum samples, 10 drum kits, and built-in effects. Its affordable price, versatility, and high-quality sounds make it ideal for drummers of all skill levels.
1.2 Target Audience and Use Cases
The Simmons SD350 is designed for drummers of all skill levels, from beginners to professionals. It’s ideal for home practice, rehearsals, live performances, and recording sessions. Its affordability and versatility make it suitable for hobbyists, educators, and musicians seeking a reliable, space-saving drum kit with high-quality sounds and realistic playability.
1.3 Key Features and Benefits
The Simmons SD350 features a 5-piece electronic drum set with mesh-head pads for a realistic feel. It includes a sound module with 170 custom drum samples and 10 drum kits, MIDI functionality, and a built-in metronome. The kit is lightweight, easy to assemble, and offers versatile connectivity options for recording and live use.
Safety Instructions
Always follow safety precautions: avoid water exposure, clean with a dry cloth, and ensure proper ventilation. Read and heed all warnings to prevent damage or injury.
2.1 General Safety Precautions
Read all instructions carefully and follow them strictly. Avoid using the SD350 near water or in humid environments. Ensure good ventilation and never block air vents. Clean only with a soft, dry cloth to prevent damage. Keep the unit away from children and pets to avoid accidental misuse or injury.
2.2 Specific Warnings and Cautions
Avoid exposing the SD350 to water or extreme temperatures. Use only the provided power adapter to prevent damage. Do not modify the unit or use damaged cables. Ensure stable setup to prevent tipping. Avoid overloading inputs and outputs. Keep the sound module away from direct sunlight to maintain optimal performance and longevity.
Unpacking and Inventory
Ensure the box contains the sound module, pads, hardware, cables, power supply, and accessories. Verify all items are complete and undamaged before assembly to avoid delays.
3.1 Items Included in the Box
The Simmons SD350 box includes the sound module, mesh-head pads, hardware components, multi-pin cable harness, single-zone drum and cymbal pads, power supply, and necessary cables. Ensure all items are present and undamaged before proceeding with assembly.
3.2 Checking for Completeness and Damage
Verify all components are present and undamaged upon unpacking. Inspect the sound module, pads, hardware, and cables for any signs of damage or wear. Ensure electrical connections are secure and functioning properly. If any items are missing or damaged, contact Simmons support immediately to resolve the issue before proceeding with assembly.
Assembly and Setup
Connect the multi-pin cable harness to the sound module and pads, ensuring all components are securely attached. Follow the step-by-step guide to assemble hardware and ensure stability for optimal performance.
4.1 Step-by-Step Assembly Guide
- Connect the multi-pin cable harness from the sound module to the 7 pad inputs.
- Attach the single-zone cymbal pads to the corresponding inputs on the harness.
- Plug the single-zone drum pads into the remaining inputs on the harness.
- Assemble the hardware stand, ensuring all components are securely tightened.
- Mount the sound module and pads to the stand for stability.
- Connect the power supply and test all pads to ensure proper functionality.
4.2 Connecting the Sound Module to Pads
Connect the multi-pin cable harness to the sound module and pad inputs. Attach the cymbal pads to their designated ports on the harness. Plug the drum pads into the remaining inputs, ensuring secure connections. Power on the module and test each pad to confirm proper functionality and response.
4.3 Adjusting Hardware and Ensuring Stability
Tighten all hardware components securely to ensure stability. Adjust the drum pads and cymbals to your preferred playing height and angle using the provided clamps and screws. Ensure the stand bases are level and stable to prevent wobbling. Double-check all connections and tighten any loose fittings for optimal performance and durability.
4.4 Connecting the Power Supply
Connect the AC power adapter to the sound module and plug it into a nearby wall outlet. Ensure the adapter is fully seated and the polarity matches the module’s requirements. Avoid exposing the power supply to water or moisture. Use a dry cloth to clean the adapter and module to prevent damage.
Sound Module Overview
The Simmons SD350 sound module offers 10 customizable drum kits and 170 high-quality samples. Its intuitive interface features a backlit LCD screen for easy navigation and editing.
5.1 Navigating the Sound Module Interface
The SD350 sound module features a backlit LCD screen and intuitive controls. Use buttons to navigate menus, select kits, and adjust settings. A data wheel allows for quick scrolling and parameter adjustments, while a straightforward layout ensures easy access to sounds and customization options for a seamless drumming experience.
5.2 Understanding the Layout and Controls
The SD350 sound module features a backlit LCD screen, navigation buttons, and a data wheel for scrolling and adjusting settings. Dedicated buttons for kit selection and metronome control simplify workflow. A volume dial and MIDI/output jacks are located on the rear, ensuring easy access to essential functions and connectivity options.
5.3 Factory Reset Procedure
To reset the SD350 sound module to factory settings, power it off, then press and hold the ‘-‘ and ‘+’ buttons while turning it on. Release the buttons after three seconds. The module will revert to its original factory configuration, restoring default kits, settings, and preferences.
Customizing Your Sound
The Simmons SD350 allows you to tailor your drumming experience by adjusting sensitivity, creating custom kits, and using built-in effects. MIDI connectivity further expands your creative possibilities.
6.1 Adjusting Sensitivity and Trigger Settings
Adjust sensitivity and trigger settings on the Simmons SD350 to optimize response. Fine-tune thresholds for pads and cymbals to match your playing style. Customize dynamics and ensure accurate triggering for consistent performance. This feature enhances the overall drumming experience, allowing for precise control over sound expression and playback accuracy.
6.2 Creating Custom Drum Kits
To create a custom drum kit on the Simmons SD350, navigate to the kit customization section in the sound module. Assign desired sounds to each pad, adjusting levels and effects as needed. Save your custom kit in the user section to avoid overwriting factory settings. Experiment with sound layers and MIDI assignments for enhanced versatility.
6.3 Using Built-In Effects and Editing Sounds
The Simmons SD350 allows you to enhance your drumming experience with built-in effects like reverb, delay, and compression. Users can edit sound parameters such as decay, attack, and tuning to create unique tones. These features enable customization of drum kits, offering a tailored sound to suit individual preferences and musical styles effectively.
6.4 MIDI Functions and Connectivity
The Simmons SD350 supports MIDI connectivity, enabling integration with computers, DAWs, and external devices. The MIDI In/Out ports and USB connection allow seamless data transfer and control. This feature enhances recording and live performances, providing versatility for musicians to expand their creative possibilities with external MIDI controllers and software tools.
Using the Metronome
The Simmons SD350’s built-in metronome helps drummers maintain precise timing. Enable it via the sound module, adjust tempo and time signature, and use it for practice sessions to improve rhythm and accuracy.
7.1 Enabling and Configuring the Metronome
To enable the metronome on the Simmons SD350, press and hold the ‘-‘ and ‘REC/PLAY’ buttons while powering on the module. Use the navigation buttons to set the tempo and time signature. Adjust the metronome volume separately for optimal practice sessions. Save your settings to maintain consistency across rehearsals.
7.2 Setting Tempo and Time Signature
Press the ‘TEMPO’ button to adjust the tempo using the ‘+’ and ‘-‘ buttons. Select the desired time signature by pressing the ‘SIGNATURE’ button and scrolling through options. Use the navigation buttons to confirm your settings. The module will display the tempo and time signature for accurate practice. Save your configuration for future use.
Connecting External Devices
Connect the Simmons SD350 to external devices via MIDI, auxiliary input, or USB for DAW integration. Ensure compatibility with recording software like Logic Pro or Ableton for seamless functionality.
8.1 Connecting to a Computer or DAW
To connect the Simmons SD350 to a computer or DAW, use the MIDI interface or USB connection. Ensure MIDI ports are properly configured in your DAW. Compatible with Logic Pro, Ableton, and other major recording software. Install the latest drivers and configure settings for optimal performance and seamless integration.
8.2 Using the Auxiliary Input for External Audio
The Simmons SD350 features an Auxiliary Input jack for connecting external audio devices such as smartphones or MP3 players. Use a 1/8-inch stereo cable to connect your device. Adjust the external audio volume via the module’s controls to blend with your drum sounds, ensuring a balanced mix for practice or performance.
8.3 Connecting to a Drum Amplifier or Sound System
Connect the Simmons SD350 to a drum amplifier or sound system using the stereo output jacks on the sound module. Use a 1/4-inch cable to link the module’s stereo outputs to the amplifier’s input. This setup is ideal for live performances or practice sessions, ensuring high-quality sound output through external speakers or PA systems.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Regularly clean the mesh pads with a dry cloth to maintain performance. Inspect cables and connections for damage or wear. Lubricate moving parts as needed.
Troubleshoot issues like pad responsiveness by recalibrating sensors or resetting the module to factory settings. Refer to the manual for detailed diagnostic procedures and solutions.
9.1 Cleaning and Maintaining the Drum Kit
Use a dry cloth to clean the mesh pads and outer surfaces regularly. Avoid exposure to water or moisture to prevent damage. Ensure good ventilation to prevent overheating. Lubricate moving hardware parts periodically for smooth operation. Inspect cables and connections for wear or damage. Replace any damaged components promptly to maintain performance.
9.2 Troubleshooting Common Issues
Common issues include low sensitivity or pad misfires, often resolved by adjusting trigger settings or cleaning connections. If the module freezes, restart it or perform a factory reset. Check power supply stability and ensure all cables are securely connected. For persistent problems, refer to the manual or contact Simmons support for assistance.
9.3 Calibrating Pads and Sensors
Calibrate pads and sensors by adjusting sensitivity and threshold settings in the module. Power off, then press and hold specific buttons while turning on. Follow on-screen prompts to complete calibration. Ensure accurate trigger response by testing pads after calibration. This ensures optimal performance and eliminates false triggers or delayed responses during play.
Warranty and Support
The Simmons SD350 comes with a limited warranty covering manufacturing defects. Visit the official Simmons website for warranty details, manual downloads, and support contact information.
10.1 Understanding the Warranty Terms
The Simmons SD350 is backed by a limited warranty covering manufacturing defects for one year from purchase. This warranty applies to the sound module, pads, and hardware. Exclusions include normal wear, misuse, or unauthorized modifications. For full details, refer to the official manual or visit Simmons’ website.
10.2 Contacting Simmons Support
For assistance, visit Simmons’ official website or refer to the manual. Contact support via email or phone for inquiries. Additionally, online forums and communities provide resources and troubleshooting tips for the SD350, ensuring comprehensive support for users.
10.3 Additional Resources and Online Support
Simmons offers extensive online resources, including user forums, video tutorials, and downloadable guides. The official website provides access to manuals, firmware updates, and troubleshooting tips. Engage with online communities for peer support and expert advice to optimize your SD350 experience and resolve any issues efficiently.
The Simmons SD350 offers exceptional value for drummers seeking an affordable, versatile electronic drum kit. Its ease of use, robust features, and realistic sound make it ideal for practice, recording, and performance. Explore the manual and online resources to unlock its full potential and enhance your drumming experience.
11.1 Final Thoughts on the Simmons SD350
The Simmons SD350 is a standout choice for drummers seeking affordability without compromising on quality. Its mesh-head pads, versatile sound module, and user-friendly interface make it ideal for practice, recording, and performance. With a wealth of customization options and reliable construction, the SD350 delivers excellent value for both beginners and seasoned musicians.
11.2 Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Kit
Adjust sensitivity settings to match your playing style, explore factory drum kits, and customize sounds for personalized tones. Regularly clean pads and check connections for optimal performance. Experiment with MIDI functions and external audio inputs to expand your creative possibilities. Familiarize yourself with the manual to unlock all features and stay updated with firmware for enhanced functionality. Enjoy your drumming journey with the Simmons SD350!
References and Further Reading
Refer to the official Simmons SD350 manual for detailed instructions. Explore online communities and forums for user insights and troubleshooting tips. Visit Simmons’ official website for additional resources and support.
12.1 Official Simmons SD350 Manual
The official Simmons SD350 manual is available for free download as a PDF from Simmons’ website. It provides comprehensive guidance on assembly, features, troubleshooting, and warranty details. This essential resource ensures optimal use of the drum kit, covering all technical aspects and user instructions for a seamless experience.
12.2 Online Communities and User Forums
Active online communities and forums dedicated to Simmons SD350 users offer valuable resources, tips, and troubleshooting advice. These platforms provide peer support, shared knowledge, and insights from experienced drummers. They are excellent for resolving common issues, learning advanced techniques, and staying updated on the latest developments and modifications for the SD350.