Two new electronic drumsets are now available from Alesis: the DM8 USB Kit and DM8 Pro Kit. Introduced at the 2011 Winter NAMM Show, both kits offer drummers a fresh choice of pads, sizes, and racks.

The DM8, the latest Alesis drum module, builds on the features of the DM10, sharing the DM10's essential architecture, including playback of genuine recordings of real drums and cymbals and advanced Dynamic Articulation multi-samples. The new DM8 is loaded with over 750 studio and live drums and cymbals, dozens of play-along tracks, and an advanced metronome for practice and performance. In addition, the DM8 features professional audio and trigger inputs and outputs and MIDI and USB MIDI for expansive flexibility and connection to a wide range of devices.

The five-piece DM8 USB Kit features a dual-zone snare pad, three tom pads, and a kick pad that accommodates single and double pedals. Drummers seeking quiet pads and a compact setup need look no further than the DM8 USB Kit, says Alesis. The new kit also includes a hi-hat with control pedal, crash with choke, and a triple-zone ride. The responsive, rubber pads are designed to withstand the heaviest hitters, yet capture performance dynamics and articulation. The DM8 USB Kit comes with a preassembled, four-post DMRack complete with clamps with large wingscrews and mini-boom cymbal arms.

Drummers after a kit with a realistic sound and feel will want to check out the DM8 Pro Kit, which has Alesis' RealHead drum pads (a 12-inch snare, 8-, 10- and 12-inch toms, and an 8-inch kick pad that accommodates single and double pedals) and DMPad Cymbals (a 12-inch Hi-Hat with RealHat control pedal, 14-inch Crash with choke, and a 16-inch triple-zone Ride). What's more, the DM8 Pro Kit comes with a rugged StageRack, which features a sturdy four-post design, clamps with large wingscrews for easy tool-less adjustments, and boom cymbal arms for excellent flexibility in cymbal positioning.

The DM8 USB Kit ($899 Retail, $699 Street) and DM8 Pro Kit ($999 Retail, $799 Street) are now available. For more information on the new electronic drumsets, visit alesis.com.