Using an ESI XJam to practice and analyze your own playing style with Aerodrums

[Go4Sail]

For the past 4 weeks I’ve been using an ESI XJam together with my smartphone and the Koala Sampler to improve my sense of rhythm and to learn how to compose something simple. After a few attempts, I figured out how to combine everything into a smooth workflow.
I recorded the samples almost losslessly using the MiniFuse 2 audio interface and saved them as Koala samples (one sample bank per kit-size: A, B, and C). Then I connected the ESI XJam (any other pad controller will work as well) via a USB‑C to USB‑C data cable. The power is supplied by the phone even for the audio interface and the pad in a daisy chain !
Next comes the MIDI mapping, which also works for the rotary encoders, and then you’re ready to go. As a starting point in Koala Sampler, I’d recommend setting SEQ.Snap to 1/16 and Quantize to 1/32.
For example, you can create really nice rhythm patterns using the ESI pad and then play accents over them with the Aerodrums via MIDI triggers – and see just how badly you actually play
As always, I’d be happy if others tried this setup as well and shared their impressions.