Pearl EM1 Malletstation

I have had this for 1 week and have already used it for a small gig to play timps, vibraphone and glockenspiel. Once linked to my mac through main stage, it really was very easy to control in a live situation. I have not started to use it to its full capacity as I have never used midi before and it starts to become complex. However there are great Facebook groups with experienced users where you can ask questions and get helpful support.

At £1200 a unit these are pretty poor bits of highly inconsistent midi hardware. Individual pads are not even balanced - strike top third - full note - strike bottom third - nothing. Next one - exact opposite. Individual strokes often not even registering. OK for practice but if you want go and use this live somewhere I would suggest paying the extra for the better quality alternatives. This is a bit of kit but trading on a major brand name but let down by very poor build quality.
First one returned and replaced with a brand new one byThomann when some keys stopped working correctly (cannot fault the service - first one replaced without any problem by very helpful service staff).
Second one developed faults within 6 months of light use by playing random notes and more inconsistent keypad issues. This unit is now being returned to the service department. I am now asking for a refund as this piece of equipment is clearly not of a marketable standard. Not Thomann's fault - just poorly made by Pearl - and really would expect better from an established major manufacturer of percussion equipment. Visit the fb user forum - tells you all you need to know!! If you are a serious/professional user avoid the Malletstation and pay the extra or one of the alternatives. its just not reliable. Even if you are just a fun/recreational user you still expect to get something that works properlay and is relaiable for £1500!