Simmons TMI

This rack module does not generate any sounds itself. Its only purpose is to convert triggers (from pads or some other source) into a midi out signal.

127 user patches are avaible and can be edited and saved easily. Internal battery keeps them in memory when switched off. It has a function called sequence (not a sequencer!) that allows programing the order that patches will go in when pressing the arrow buttons on the front panel. No midi-out. Patches and sequence can only be saved and loaded by the cassette interface.

There are 8 trigger inputs. Sensitivity of triggers is controlled by eight knobs on the front and each knob has a led that lights when a pad is hit. The sensitivity is no where near as good as you might get with a modern electronic kit eg: roland td-7 but I'm using simmons sds5 pads - you can make these pads more sensitive but running the output through some type of amp eg. a distortion pedal before you input to the TMI.

I have had it for 5 years now and it is 100% reliable. I have used it live and it always works fine. Only downfall could be if the internal battery decided to go flat and loses your presets in which case you need to save/load from the casette interface which is a pain.

Simmons still exist in some form or another I think, but its very hard to get any info on them or the products - especially older ones like the TMI. I managed to get hold of the manual though.

I would easily by one of these again but they are not easy to come by - in Australia at least. I paid $400 AUD for it including a full set of sds5 pads. I dont know of any other trigger to midi interfaces like this one that dont generate any of their own sounds. Biggest downfall is the user interface is a bit confusing and a midi output for saving patches as sysex would be heaps better than the outdated cassette load/save/verfiy. Any one who needs help with one of these dont hesistate to e-mail me.

This rack module does not generate any sounds itself. Its only purpose is to convert triggers (from pads or some other source) into a midi out signal.

127 user patches are avaible and can be edited and saved easily. Internal battery keeps them in memory when switched off. It has a function called sequence (not a sequencer!) that allows programing the order that patches will go in when pressing the arrow buttons on the front panel. No midi-out. Patches and sequence can only be saved and loaded by the cassette interface.

There are 8 trigger inputs. Sensitivity of triggers is controlled by eight knobs on the front and each knob has a led that lights when a pad is hit. The sensitivity is no where near as good as you might get with a modern electronic kit eg: roland td-7 but I'm using simmons sds5 pads - you can make these pads more sensitive but runnig the output through some type of amp eg. a distortion pedal before you input to the TMI.

I have had it for 5 years now and it is 100% reliable. I have used it live and it always works fine. Only downfall could be if the internal battery decided to go flat and loses your presets in which case you need to save/load from the casette interface which is a pain.

Simmons still exist in some form or another I think, but its very hard to get any info on them or the products - especially older ones like the TMI. I managed to get hold of the manual though.

I would easily by one of these again but they are not easy to come by - in Austarlia at least. I paid $400 AUD for it including a full set of sds5 pads. I dont know of any other trigger to midi interfaces like this one that dont generate any of their own sounds. Biggest downfall is the user interface is a bit confusing and a midi output for saving patches as sysex would be heaps better than the outdated cassette load/save/verfiy.