Hart Dynamics Prodigy User manual

Electracoustic
Percussion
Products
OWNERS MANUAL

HART DYNAMICS
PRODIGY DRUMSET
IMPORTANT!
THANK YOU
FOR PURCHASING
HART DYNAMICS
ELECTRACOUSTIC
PERCUSSION PRODUCTS
IF YOU HAVE ANY
TECHNICAL QUESTIONS
OR BELIEVE YOUR ARE
MISSING COMPONENTS,
PLEASE CHECK YOUR
QUALITY CONTROL CHECK LIST
(NEXT PAGE)
AND REVIEW YOUR
OWNERS DOCUMENTATION.
IF YOU NEED ADDITIONAL HELP,
PLEASE CALL HART DYNAMICS
DIRECT AT (850) 654-1466
FOR PROMPT, EXPERT
ASSISTANCE.
THANK YOU

PRODIGY DRUMSET
QTY HDI PART NUMBER DESCRIPTION
X 10 HW-UTCL R ANGLE TUBE CLAMP
X 8 HW-URCL RACK TOM/CYMBAL CLAMP
X 2 HW-CYBS CYMBAL ARM STRAIGHT
X 5 PR-DRUM MT ARM PRODIGY TOM ARM
X 1 PR-URT12" ULTILITE 12" RACK TUBE
X 2 PR-URT16" ULTILITE 16" RACK TUBE
X 1 PR-URT24" ULTILITE 24" RACK TUBE
X 4 PR-URT26" ULTILITE 26” RACK TUBE
X 2 PR-URT30" ULTILITE 30” RACK TUBE
X 4 PR-RACK FOOT T-LEG FOOT-PLASTIC
X 9 HW-UCBLS STUDIO CABLES STEREO
X 1 HW-CLMP-MT-C ALESIS RACK EARS-SET
X 1 DSM-PR OWNERS PACK (Quality Control Checklist, Rack Set Up,
Module Configurations, Trigger Settings)
X 1 HW-TUNING-KEY TUNING KEY
X 5 PR-TOM/BD-PAD PRODIGY DRUM PADS
X 1 PR-HH-PAD PRODIGY HH PAD
X 1 PR-EC12 12 ECYMBAL S/no spring
X 1 PR-EC14 14 ECYMBAL S/ no spring
QUALITY CONTROL CHECKLIST
QUICK SET UP (NEXT PAGE)
This order has been inspected and packed by:
_______________________________________

PRODIGY
RACK
SET-UP
HW-UTCL
Tube Clamp
HW-URCL
Tom/Cymbal/BD
Clamp
HW-CLMP-MT-C
Alesis DM5 Rack Ear Mounts
26"
26"
26" 26"
30"
12"
24"
16"
16"
Rack Assembly
1. Slide clamps on to tubes.
2. Insert Tom arms, Cymbal
arms and Bass Drum mount.
3. Install Drums, Cymbals,
and Hi-Hat pad.
4. Attach Bass Drum pedal.
5. Position all instruments to
desired location.
6. Tighten all clamps and
mounts securely.
7. Install module and cables.

PRODIGY
SET-UP
ALESIS
D4/DM5
1
2
3
4 5
6
7
8
FOOT
SWITCH
INPUT
1 HI-HAT PAD
2 BASS DRUM PAD
3 SNARE PAD
4 TOM PAD 1
5 TOM PAD 2
6 TOM PAD 3
7 14” RIDE CYMBAL PAD
8 12” CRASH CYMBAL PAD
FOOT SWITCH HH PEDAL
1
2
3
4 5
6
7
8
HH
CTRL
ROLAND
TD-3
INPUT
1 HI-HAT PAD
2 BASS DRUM PAD
3 SNARE PAD
4 TOM PAD 1
5 TOM PAD 2
6 TOM PAD 3
7 12” CRASH CYMBAL PAD
8 14” RIDE CYMBAL PAD
HH CONTROL HH PEDAL
Prodigy drum set does not require trigger adjustment with the Alesis DM5.
You may alter trigger settings to suit your playing style.

Dear Friends and Fellow Percussionists,
Thank you for purchasing your Hart Dynamics Electracoustic®
Percussion Product. You have purchased one of the finest Instruments avail-
able, and are assured of years of trouble free operation.
We at Hart Dynamics, are dedicated to providing the finest products and
services available, and continue to design our products with quality, playabili-
ty, ease of set-up, and compatibility being our foremost concerns. Our products
have undergone years of testing and tour/studio use, so that you may concen-
trate on playing. We also subscribe to the philosophy that “drummers want to
play drums” and have implemented this credo into our products so that you
don’t have to alter your playing style.
The future is here, and as drummers, we now have the same technology
available to us that guitar and keyboard players have had. This technology
is continually improving and becoming more affordable, and embracing this
exciting technology will surely provide new creative avenues and opportuni-
ties.
We value your patronage and are very much interested in any comments
you might have. You may write or e-mail us so that we may use your input to
continue to provide the best products and services available.
Enjoy!
Peter Hart
President/CEO
Hart Dynamics, Inc.

Contents
Introduction...............................................................2
Drum Rack Set-up.............................................................3
Installing Drums and Cymbals......................................4
Cable Installation.........................................................5
Crash/Splash Set-up......................................................6
Installing Drum Module...................................................6
Ready To Play
Setting the Trigger Parameters......................................7
Advanced User Tips and Tricks
Advanced Features......................................................8
LIFETIME GUARANTEE..................................................9
1

Introduction
Your Hart Dynamics Electracoustic® Drum System is the result of years
of research and development and represents the most comprehensive
electronic drum system available. Easy enough to use for the beginning
drummer with features that allow the most advanced user flexibility never
before available. To assure proper set up, take full advantage of your
drum set’s functions, and to enjoy long and trouble free use, please read
the Set-up Guide and Module Reference Manual carefully.
How to Use this manual
This Set-up Guide is designed to help you configure your drumset to the
“power on” stage. Please refer to your Module Reference Manual for
playing and programming. Our Quick Set Up page will provide additional
assistance. After basic operation is achieved, you will probably want to
“fine tune” settings to your personal style and taste.
Conventions
TRS stands for Tip / Ring / Sleeve.
This is the same as a “stereo” jack, where one input, output or cable carry
two signals at the same time.
8When something important appears in the manual, an
icon (like the one on the left) will appear in the left margin.
This symbol indicates that this information is vital when set-
ting up/operating your drum set.
2

Drum Rack Set-up
Your PRODIGY Drumset comes with complete hardware and cables. We
have provided the quick set-up sheet so you have pictures of the assem-
bled rack and module mount recommendations for reference.
NOTE: HW-UMMT/A (ALESIS) module mounts are shown in all
rack set up pictures. Module mount for Roland/ Yamaha modules are not
included.
During the following assembly, we recommend you tighten each
clamp only enough to hold it in place. After complete assembly and posi-
tioning, it is then recommended you tighten each clamp securely.
NOTE: The following pages contain information that includes basic
global tips for connecting HDI Electracoustic® Percussion Products to all
manufacturers sound modules. You should consult the manufacturer’s
owners manual of the sound/trigger module you are using for optimum
playability. Our products are the finest products available in the world,
and go through extensive testing to insure compatability, but you will only
achieve optimum results by using optimum settings. For best results,
adjust each instrument individually by unplugging all inputs except the
one you are adjusting (Not necessary for users who are familiar with X-
talk settings).
DISCLAIMER
NOTE: All Company and Product names, numbers, models and/or
Trademarks in this manual are assumed to be registered and are the
property of their respective commercial entities. HDI makes no claims to
endorse or recommend any of the above which might be mentioned.
8
3
8
8

Installing Drums and Cymbals
There are as many ways to configure your drum set as there are drum-
mers. Our HARTWARE® or ULTILITE® rack and mounting system will
allow you to position each drum and cymbal to suit your taste.
1. Start with the SNARE drum. Position your drum throne to the height at
which you are most comfortable, then install the snare pad on to the snare
mount.
2. Locate the bass drum pad and install.
3. Install bass drum pedal and clamp pedal to Bass drum. Adjust position.
4. Locate the hh pedal and adjust position on floor.
5. Install Hi-Hat pad and adjust position.
6. Install Ride and adjust position.
7. Install Toms and adjust position.
8. Install Crash and adjust position.
Adjust the drum head tension. All drums are pre-tensioned from the
factory, but you may adjust them to your taste and playing style. Snare
drums usually have the tightest tension, high tom next , then down to loos-
est on floor tom(s) and Bass Drum. It is important to adjust head tensions
BEFORE setting up module as different tensions will affect triggering char-
acteristics slightly. Adjust using any standard drum key (supplied).
IMPORTANT! Hart Dynamics KONTROL SCREEN® drum heads
are extremely durable and will typically last much longer than their
acoustic conterparts. ALL PRODIGY DRUM HEADS ARE SPECIFIC
8" PRODIGY HEADS. YOU MAY ONLY USE 8" (KSM08-P) PRODIGY
DRUM HEADS ON PRODIGY DRUMS. ALL BASS DRUM HEADS MUST
BE TREATED AS YOU WOULD AN ACOUSTIC BASS DRUM HEAD.
Felt beaters are recommended and you should not have to replace the
bass drum head for a very long time, if ever. If you choose to use a plastic
or wooden beater, you should take the same precautions that you would
normally take on an acoustic bass drum. We recommend using a protec-
tive patch just as you would on an acoustic kick. Hart Dynamics does not
guarantee drum heads.
8
4
8

Cable Installation
PRODIGY drumset is supplied with 10’ "Stereo" TRS cables for use with
ALESIS D4 and DM5 modules. These Modules do not require TRS cables.
PRODIGY sets are not compatable with dual trigger snare (rimshot),
choke capability, and variable HH with Roland modules. The Snare pad,
Prodigy Ecymbals, and Prodigy HH pedal will function properly and will
play fine, but these advanced functions will not be accessable.
Start with input #1 and work your way around the set. You may use cable
ties, velcro, or black electrical tape to secure cables to rack hardware
(Figure 2b). You may also make a “snake” by securing cables together
once you determine the optimum position for each component.
IMPORTANT:
It is VERY IMPORTANT that enough slack is provided for crash and
splash cymbals which move up and down and that cable is not just hang-
ing from the cymbal. This may cause jack failure, bend trigger housing,
and cause intermitant triggering. When installing cable, bend cymbal to full
extension and attach cable to stand. (Fig. 2a,2b,2c)
Sound Source Connection
Plug cables into sound source. Most modules come with pre-programmed
drumset settings, so check the inputs for ease of set-up (tom-tom, snare-
snare, etc...). You may also program any sound to any input. Please
consult your Module Owners Manual to determine which inputs to use
to correspond with the drums and cymbals on your PRODIGY drum-
set. Our Quick Set Up guide will help you with your cable installation.
8
5
MONO 1/4” PLUG
STEREO/TRS 1/4” PLUG

Fig. 2a
CORRECT
MOUNTING
NOTE:
CABLE RELIEF
Fig 2b
CYMBAL
FLEXES
WITHOUT
STRAIN ON
CABLE
Fig 2c
INCORRECT:
INCONSISTENT
TRIGGERING.
DAMAGED
CYMBAL/CABLE
Crash/Splash/China Cable Care
6
Module Mounts
Attach ALESIS modules to rack tube using 2 AMMT fittings.
x
Using Roland/
Yamaha Module
requires 1 HW-
URCL rack clamp
and 1 P-MT-TD10
Roland/Yamaha
mount plate.
Note: The Ecymbals above are Series X (ten) cymbals.
These are shown to provide a better view. Cymbal Springs®
are not provided with the Prodigy set, but the same cable
relief set up should be observed.

Ready To Play
You are now ready to “Power Up” your drum set. Locate the power supply
(or power cord) and plug connector into module back panel (where appli-
cable). Plug other end into AC outlet. Press Power button on front panel.
Please refer to the Module Reference Manual for advanced trigger and
programming features. PRODIGY set requires no adjustment and is
ready to play with ALESIS D4/DM5. (Enhanced adjustments below)
Enhanced Adjustments
1. Start by setting the VELOCITY CURVE. This parameter adjusts how the
drum responds over the entire the dynamic range. In general, the lower the
better, so this should be set at linear or "1" on the D4 and DM5. This will allow
you to hit the drums and cymbals very soft and very hard with the correspond-
ing matched output. In general, the HIGHER the setting, the LEAST amount of
dynamic range will be acheived.
2. Once you have set the V-CURVE it is time to adjust the SENSITIVITY.
Adjust module sensitivity for each drum and cymbal individually so that the
sound is loudest when you are hitting the instrument as hard as you will ever
hit it.
3. The Prodigy sets ship with self adhesive rubber pads which are replace-
able as a wear and tear item. These pads allow the cymbals to be played
very quietly. Gain adjustment may be required for optimum sensitivity. You
may also remove the rubber pads for enhanced "feel" and improved trig-
gering with stock settings. It is VERY IMPORTANT that you rotate the trig-
ger housing to the back side of the cymbal (opposite of where you play) if
pads are removed. Playing the cymbals directly over the trigger hous-
ing WITHOUT protective rubber will cause "hot spots", eratic trig-
gering, and may void guarantee. It is recommended that you purchase
Cymbal Springs® (part # P-EC-SPGC) to prevent the cymbals from rotat-
ing and enhance "feel" if you choose to play the cymbals in this manner.
7

Advanced User Tips and Tricks
X-TALK/ REJECTION
Once Vcurve and sensitivity/gain settings are programmed,
plug in all inputs. Cross-talk (also referred to as rejection) keeps the vibra-
tion created by hitting a specific trigger (drum/cymbal) from firing other
triggers. Usually, the default (stock) settings are sufficient, but if false trig-
gering should occur, you may adjust each trigger input accordingly. (consult
module manufacturers owners manual).
DECAY/MASK/RETRIGGER
Decay adjusts the amount of time before the module will allow the spe-
cific input you are triggering to re-trigger. Again, default (stock) set-
tings should work fine. This setting is mostly used on acoustic drums
where there is residual resonance. For instance, if you are triggering an
acoustic snare drum without any muffling, raising the decay setting will
eliminate “machine gunning” or multiple triggers per hit. (B-d-d-d)
NOISE/THRESHOLD/GATE
This setting is used in extreme cases where cross-talk/ rejection are not
enough. The higher the setting, the harder you have to hit the trigger
before it passes the noise floor/ threshold and sound is heard. This feature
is also very useful for setting up your dual trigger pad. By raising this set-
ting on rim trigger only, this will eliminate rim from firing until it is actually
hit. This setting is most critical when acoustic instruments are incorporated
into the drumset at close proximity to triggered devices.
We would like you to enjoy your HDI products to the fullest extent, and set-
up should be quick and easy. Once you learn your module, you should be
able to do a complete set up in about 30 minutes. You should NOT have to
change your playing style to adjust to an Electronic Drumset. If you need
assistance, we will be pleased to assist you. If you have any questions, call
our technical support line at 850-654-1466.
Thank You. 8

HART DYNAMICS, INC. (HDI) Guarantees all Electracoustic® Percussion Products* against defects in material and/or workmanship
for the life of the product** purchased from an authorized HDI reseller. All guarantee claims must be processed directly through
HDI. HDI Electracoustic® Percussion Products are manufactured to patented design specifications for transducer protection (where
applicable) and utmost durability. If you are experiencing any problems, please contact HDI with any questions or concerns for prompt
and accurate assistance. HDI will repair or replace any product that fails including all shipping costs*** for 30 days from the invoice
date of original sale from an authorized HDI retailer. All returns must be accompanied by a copy of the original sales receipt. After 30
days, HDI is not responsible for shipping and handling charges. This does not cover deterioration of any part due to normal wear and
tear (i.e.: drum heads, replaceable playing surfaces, finishes, etc.), abuse or misuse. All wear and tear items are user replaceable and
products are not required to be returned to HDI. User replaceable parts may be purchased through your preferred retailer or directly
from HDI. Please contact our Technical Support Department for assistance in determining the nature of your problem. Most issues can
be solved without returning the product to HDI. Any damage incurred during user replacement is the sole responsibility of the user.
User alteration or modification of any HDI Electracoustic® Percussion Product may void guarantee. HDI reserves the right to evaluate
and approve any product returned for repair or replacement and shipment must be properly packaged and shipped to Hart Dynamics
for evaluation. No shipments will be accepted without a return authorization number (RA#) printed clearly on the package. HDI must
be able to duplicate the problem with any product that is returned for service that user has determined is not functioning to factory
specifications. Any product that is evaluated by HDI may be subject to additional charges.
Thank you for purchasing HDI products expertly hand crafted in the USA.
Please contact us with any questions or comments you have.
We are dedicated to 100% Customer satisfaction and personal customer service is our rule, not exception.
We look forward to providing you with the best products and service in the World!
For a Return Authorization number (RA#) please call
Customer Service at 850.654.1455
You may also e-mail [email protected]
HART DYNAMICS, INC.
500 INDUSTRIAL PARK ROAD
BUILDING K4
DESTIN FLORIDA 32541
PHONE: 850.654.1455
FAX: 850.654.8505
www.hartdynamics.com
*Electracoustic® Percussion Products are defined as electronic percussion products designed and manufactured by HDI. All guarantee
information and product specifications are subject to change without notice. HDI reserves the right to change any information at any
time, and assumes no responsibility for any damage or injury that occurs from use or from any information provided by HDI, HDI
employees, agents, distributors, resellers or third parties. Purchasing or using HDI products constitutes that you agree to these terms of
use and will hold HDI harmless. If you do not agree to these terms, kindly return your purchase before use. HDI makes no warranties
either expressed or implied other than our product lifetime guarantee. This warranty allows U.S. purchasers specific legal rights. Other
legal rights may vary from state to state.
** Any product that has been discontinued, modified, upgraded, improved or replaced with newer technology by HDI may or may not
be able to be repaired or replaced to original specification due to replacement parts that are no longer available to, or manufactured by
HDI. Under these circumstances HDI will advise user of optional repair/replacement/improvement/upgrade services. Optional repair/
replacement/improvement/upgrade services which are available may be subject to additional charges.
*** Shipping costs are for standard ground shipping via HDI’s preferred shipping agent in the continental U.S. Expedited service is
available for an additional fee which is equal to the difference between HDI’s standard service and users choice of expedited service
and/or users preferred service provider.
Copyright© 2004 HDI

Copyright© 2004 HDI
HART DYNAMICS, INC.
500 INDUSTRIAL PARK ROAD
BUILDING K4
DESTIN FLORIDA 32541
PHONE: 850.654.1455
FAX: 850.654.8505
www.hartdynamics.com
Table of contents
Other Hart Dynamics Drum manuals