Re: pads, it's all about 3 things(IMO): Stick feel, accoustic sound, durability.
I'm far from an expert opinion on edrums, but I've emersed myself in it. As like MoonlightBob, I'm picking up sticks again, after setting them down for years.
What I've learned, I've read or watched on the web. The mylar Alesis pads IMO feel pretty good stick wise, but they are a bit loud accoustically. I've been told the head will wear out pretty quickly with heavy sticks. I was using 5B's, and the pads on my DM5 held up (but, then again, i didn't have the kit that long. I returned it once I figured out the DM5's limitations. With these heads, I could actually feel stick indentations, not on the mylar, but on the pad behind it. So, I'm pretty sure it would wear out in time.
A common thing to do it convert to Mesh heads. These too will wear out, but not as quickly as the mylar setup.. at least that's what I've read. Some people use double ply mesh heads for added durability and less stick bounce. Billy Blast heads offers a 'power dot', so-to-speak, for increased durability. But from what I'm told, that'll increase the accoustic sound of the drum.
I suppose a question is... what are you looking to do? Do you have space requirments? Volume issues?
As for the brain, the DM10 is 64 poly, which means it can only play 64 notes at once. Once the 65th note is stuck, the 1st note will cut out. Some modules have 128 poly. I have not heard/read that 64 poly is an issue. Do you think you'll be able to play 64 notes all at once?
Hellfire knows WAY more about this stuff than I. Further, he's been edrumming for years, so, I recommend picking his brain to get your questions answered.
Have fun!