What are the real differences: Crimson vs Crimson II?
According to Alesis' comparison site, they appear identical:
https://www.alesis.com/drum-kit-comparison
Both are listed as having 671 sounds, 54 factory kits/20 user kits, & 120 built-in songs
This thread mentions that the Crimson II has 71 new sounds and 4 additional preset kits (and an additional 12-inch crash w/ choke, if you buy the kit):
https://getsatisfaction.com/alesis/topics/crimson-vs-crimson-ii
I bought a used Crimson Mesh set a few months ago, but just found a used Crimson II module online. I had first seen the "71 additional sounds & 4 kits" comment and thought it would be a worthwhile upgrade, so I bought it. Then I saw the Alesis site and wondered if I just wasted my money on the Crimson II module.
I suppose I should verify what my module has. I think it has 50/20 (rather than 54/20) for kits, but I didn't check the number of sounds.
The Kit Comparison Chart is wrong
The Crimson II module did have a few more kits and samples (4 additional preset kits and some new sounds.)
I neglected to write them down before I sold the kit I had (for R&D)
The Crimson module I still have has 50 Kits and 629 Sounds with 629 being "Mute"
Check here for a better description of the Crimson II ..
https://alesis.com/kb/article/2353#differenceThe Crimson II also has the option in the menu to switch to the Pro-X (FSR).
The Crimson
doesn't have this option.
Hi-Hat Selection
If you are using an Alesis Pro X Hi-Hat (instead of the RealHat hi-hat control pedal included with your Crimson II Kit), you will need to configure the module type for that type of hi-hat control.
To select the type of hi-hat control:
1. Press Kit to enter the Kit Selection page (if you are not already viewing it).
2. Press Menu to enter the Kit Menu.
3. Use the Down and Up buttons to select HiHat Type.
4. Use the dial or Left () and Right () buttons to select On or Off.
• Pedal: Select this if you are using the RealHat hi-hat control pedal included with your Crimson II Kit.
• Pro-X: Select this if you have upgraded to the Alesis Pro X Hi-Hat.
5. Press Exit to return to the previous page.
One other thing to note is the MIDI note for open closed on the Crimson II and the DM10 MKII Studio are tied to one note for sending CC info (note 08)
If you decide to go with a HiHat and stand look for a STRIKE HiHat.
It is the same bottom half/controller,but the top is much quieter and you can usually pick one up on ebay for the same price as the Pro-X.