Free Software Upgrade Adds Functionality to Alesis Synth Products

February 6, 2000 -- Alesis announces the eminent release of Sound Bridge 3.0, the software utility that connects the flexibility of computer-based recording, sampling, sequencing and editing with the flawless performance and highly regarded sounds of an Alesis synthesizer or module. The new version of Sound Bridge software features key map editing which simplifies the process of creating multi-samples by eliminating the need for additional hardware or software.

"The fact that Sound Bridge is included on the companion CD-ROM that ships with Alesis synthesizer products really gives the Alesis synthesizer line a distinct and unique advantage," relates David Bryce, marketing manager -synthesizers. "This version of the software has been highly anticipated among Alesis synthesizer users who will now be able map individual sounds into a single multi-sampled instrument completely within Sound Bridge without requiring other hardware or software."

Using the Sound Bridge program, files are sent from a PC or Macintosh computer via MIDI interface or serial cable and burned to a Type I PCMCIA flash memory card in the slot on a Sound Bridge-compatible product. Once the samples, sequences and programs are burned onto a card, the synth handles them as if they were onboard. Any Alesis product with a PCMCIA card slot is Sound Bridge-compatible, except the DG8 Digital Grand Piano and the Alesis A6 Andromeda.

The beta version of Sound Bridge 3.0 is now available for download from the Alesis website www.alesis.com. The final version will begin shipping in new products as of March 1, 2000.

Alesis also announces availability of the Sound Bridge Video Tutorial. The 25-minute video demonstrates how to transfer custom MIDI sequences, samples and program banks from a computer into an Alesis synthesizer or module, including setting up and assembling projects for transfer, saving sequences and sending sysex (system exclusive MIDI information) dumps to a PCMCIA memory card. The Sound Bridge Tutorial video can be purchased through the Alesis Parts department (800-5-ALESIS or parts@alesis.com ) for $29.99 USD MSRP. Dealer and distributor pricing is available.

For more information, visit Alesis at www.alesis.com.