Reference Manual
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Table Of Contents Introduction ..................................................................3 Welcome!...................................................................................................... 3 DEQ230 Key Features .................................................................... 4 How to Use This Manual................................................................ 5 Important Safety Instructions..................................7 Important Safety Instructions (English) ..............
Table Of Contents Basic operation: Store mode......................................................... 38 Channel Copy.............................................................................................. 39 Basic operation: Audition mode .................................................. 40 Basic operation: Channel Level mode........................................ 42 The "Hidden" Modes........................................................................ 43 Demonstration mode.................
Introduction Welcome! Thank you for purchasing the Alesis DEQ230. It is a versatile product, and whether it becomes a part of your studio or finds its place in your live setup, we know it will serve you well. Since 1984, we've been designing and building creative tools for the audio community. We believe in our products, because we've heard the results that creative people like you achieve with them.
Introduction DEQ230 Key Features 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21.
Introduction How to Use This Manual This manual is divided into the following sections describing the various functions of and applications for the DEQ230. While it's a good idea to read through the entire manual once carefully, those having general knowledge about audio equipment should use the table of contents to look up specific functions. Chapter 1: Quick Start Guide. If you're already familiar with equalization, this will get you started using the DEQ230 right away.
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Important Safety Instructions Important Safety Instructions (English) Safety symbols used in this product This symbol alerts the user that there are important operating and maintenance instructions in the literature accompanying this unit. This symbol warns the user of uninsulated voltage within the unit that can cause dangerous electric shocks. This symbol warns the user that output connectors contain voltages that can cause dangerous electrical shock.
Important Safety Instructions 12. Use only with a cart, stand, bracket, or table designed for use with professional audio or music equipment. In any installation, make sure that injury or damage will not result from cables pulling on the apparatus and its mounting. If a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over. 13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time. 14.
Important Safety Instructions Instructions de Sécurité Importantes (French) Symboles utilisés dans ce produit Ce symbole alèrte l’utilisateur qu’il existe des instructions de fonctionnement et de maintenance dans la documentation jointe avec ce produit. Ce symbole avertit l’utilisateur de la présence d’une tension non isolée à l’intérieur de l’appareil pouvant engendrer des chocs électriques.
Important Safety Instructions 12. N’utilisez qu’avec un stand, ou table conçus pour l’utilisation d’audio professionnel ou instruments de musique. Dans toute installation, veillez de ne rien endommager à cause de câbles qui tirent sur des appareils et leur support. 13. Débranchez l’appareil lors d’un orage ou lorsqu’il n’est pas utilisé pendant longtemps. 14. Faites réparer par un personnel qualifié.
Important Safety Instructions Lesen Sie bitte die folgende Sicherheitshinweise (German) Sicherheit Symbole verwendet in diesem Produkt Dieses Symbol alarmiert den Benutzer, daß es wichtige Funktionieren und Wartung Anweisungen in der Literatur gibt, die diese Maßeinheit begleitet. Dieses Symbol warnt den Benutzer der nicht isolierten Spannung innerhalb der Maßeinheit, die gefährliche elektrische Schläge verursachen kann.
Important Safety Instructions 12. Verwenden Sie ausschließlich Wagen, Ständer, oder Tische, die speziell für professionelle Audio- und Musikinstrumente geeignet sind. Achten Sie immer darauf, daß die jeweiligen Geräte sicher installiert sind, um Schäden und Verletzungen zu vermeiden. Wenn Sie einen Rollwagen benutzen, achten Sie darauf, das dieser nicht umkippt, um Verletzungen auszuschließen. 13.
Important Safety Instructions CE Declaration Of Conformity See our website at: http://www.alesis.com FCC Compliance Statement This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
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1 Quick Start Guide If you can't wait to get started The Alesis DEQ230 is a unique product, but its basic hookup and operation are similar to other equalizers in most respects. If you're experienced with signal processors, this chapter is a “shorthand” guide for those who want to start using the DEQ230 right away. If you have questions about any of the features, don’t worry – we’ll cover everything in greater detail in later chapters.
1 Quick Start Guide Step 2: Try some equalization Play some signal into the unit While learning the unit, you should play a CD or a multitrack source into the equalizer. Choose a song or musical passage with a fairly consistent level, so you can take your time experimenting with the different features. 1. Put the mixer’s main faders all the way down so you don’t distort the unit by sending it too much signal. 2. Select program 00 on the DEQ230.
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2 Connections Unpacking and Inspection Your DEQ230 was packed carefully at the factory. The shipping carton was designed to protect the unit during transit. Please keep this carton in the highly unlikely event that you need to return the DEQ230 for servicing.
2 Connections AC Power Hookup The DEQ230D has what’s known as a “switching power supply.” This means it will detect any standard line voltage from 90 to 230 volts, 50-60 Hz, and adapt itself to that. All you need is the proper A/C cable for the country in which you find yourself. Just plug the "female" end of the power cable into the DEQ230D’s POWER receptacle and the “male” end into a good quality, noise-free A/C power source.
Connections 2 Connecting Inputs and Outputs Connecting to the Channel or Main Inserts of a mixing console Unbalanced I/O Most mixing consoles have insert jacks near the main outputs and for each channel as well. These are typically Tip-Ring-Sleeve (TRS) jacks with the send and return on the same jack. To use the DEQ230 as an effects insert device, you will need an insert cable (not included). This cable splits the TRS insert jack into two unbalanced mono connectors.
2 Connections Mono connections This example shows how to connect the DEQ230 to one mono source. You can use this method to connect two mono sources or one stereo source to the DEQ230. You would need two insert cables to make both of these connections. Stereo connections Use two insert cables to connect the DEQ230 to the main L/R bus in the same way you would connect it to a pair of channel inserts.
Connections 2 Connecting to the inserts on an instrument amplifier Unbalanced I/O The insert sends on a guitar or bass amp are usually labeled "effects send and return" or "insert send and return." This allows your instrument to be boosted to line level before the signal is sent to the equalizer, processed, and returned to the power amp. Another method would be to insert the DEQ230 between the preamp and the power amp, if you are using a two-piece system.
2 Connections There are three ways to connect the DEQ230D with another digital audio device: Analog Signal In, Digital Signal Out A potential use for this setup would be if you are running your recorded tracks into a mixer that only has an analog output, but your mixdown deck has S/PDIF inputs. Use the DEQ230D to put that finishing touch on the mix, and then use it as a digital audio interface into the mixdown deck.
Connections 2 About Audio Cables The connections between the DEQ230 and your studio are your music’s lifeline, so use only high quality cables. These should be low-capacitance shielded cables with a stranded (not solid) internal conductor and a low-resistance shield. Although quality cables cost more, they do make a difference. Route cables to the DEQ230 correctly by observing the following precautions: • Do not bundle audio cables with AC power cords.
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3 Basics of Equalization This section will explain how equalization works, and explain the functions of the DEQ230’s controls. What is equalization? An equalizer boosts or cuts a frequency range. The DEQ230 is a graphic equalizer, which means it has many fixed frequency bands that can be cut or boosted. The term "graphic" is appropriate because the combined settings of the bands often resemble a curve, or a "graph.
3 Basics of Equalization Description of the Controls There are thirty buttons side-by-side on each channel of the DEQ230. These are the [BAND SELECT] buttons. Above each button is a number like "25" or "8k." These stand for the audio frequencies, measured in Hertz (Hz), which are selected for editing by the [BAND SELECT] buttons below them. Situated between the [BAND SELECT] buttons for Channel A and Channel B you will find three larger buttons. The one in the very middle is the [POWER] button.
Basics of Equalization 3 Description of the Basic Modes Program mode When this manual refers to Program mode, we mean the very top level of functionality of the DEQ230. Program mode is where you are when it is possible to use the [DOWN/UP] buttons to select between the different programs that reside in the unit. In this mode, you have access to the 30 Preset programs and 30 User programs. A Program consists of all of the settings on the front panel, with the exception of the status of the [BYPASS] button.
3 Basics of Equalization Bypass mode This mode is nearly as simple as it sounds: push the [BYPASS] button and the DEQ230 will let you hear the non-equalized audio. But there’s a bit more to it than that. There are also two gain adjustment stages that can be used to compensate for a reduction or increase in signal level caused by the equalization curve being used.
Basics of Equalization 3 Basic operation: Program mode Program mode is where to be if you want to call up another program, or if you just want to know the number of the program you are using. The DEQ230 has 60 programs in all: 30 Preset programs and 30 User programs. The Preset programs are the ones numbered 00-29, while the User programs are numbered 3059. You can use the Preset programs as starting points for your own programs, but you cannot store your creations back on top of a Preset program.
3 Basics of Equalization Basic operation: Edit mode If you're not already there, exit to Program mode by using the [LINK/EXIT] button. Then select program 00 on the DEQ230 by pressing the [DOWN] and [UP] buttons at the same time. Program 00 is a "flat" program, and it's easy to see why it's called that: the gain setting for every band is 0 dB. Calling up this program is almost the same as pressing the Bypass button, in that the audio passing through the unit will not be equalized in any way.
Basics of Equalization 3 Band Gain Cut/Boost Ranges Whether you are cutting or boosting a band, the first 10 dB of change happens in 0.5 dB increments. The last 2 dB of change, going from +/-10 dB to +/-12 dB, happens in increments of 1.0 dB. So as you make the change, the Numeric LED Display will show you values like this: 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5 ... 9.0, 9.5, 10, 11, 12. It’s not possible to show a minus sign in the LED display for negative gain values.
3 Basics of Equalization Multiple Band Edit Selecting an Edit Group Pressing a [BAND SELECT] button puts the DEQ230 into Edit mode. And until you press one of the [DOWN/UP] buttons, you can keep pressing [BAND SELECT] buttons until you have several of them selected simultaneously. This is called selecting an Edit Group. An Edit Group can be made up of any number of bands from both channels if the Link LED is not active.
Basics of Equalization 3 upward until it reaches 24. This is because that's how far the band that was set to -12 dB had to travel until it hit the "ceiling," or + 12 dB (see fig. 2). But what about the band that was set to 0 dB originally...was it boosted to +24 dB? The answer is, "Yes and no." It was, in the sense that the DEQ230 keeps track of the proportional values of the bands, even if they exceed the +/-12 dB limit of gain change for a frequency. But the audible audio gain is limited to +/-12 dB.
3 Basics of Equalization One important note, though; Proportional Gain Memory is only temporary. If you have run one or more bands "past" the +/-12 dB limit and then you exit Edit mode for any reason (such as to store the program), the gain value of those bands will be remembered as +/-12 dB (whichever was the value that was last reached for those bands). The Limits of Relative Gain There will be times when the Relative Gain display will not go all of the way up or down to a value of 24.
Basics of Equalization 3 Likewise, if the lowest gain setting of any band in this same Edit Group is -4 dB, then the largest number you will see in the Relative Gain display going all the way up is 16 (see fig. 5). So if you run the Relative Gain display up and down repeatedly with this Edit Group, the display will hit the "ceiling" at 16 and bottom out at 18.
3 Basics of Equalization Basic operation: Store mode Once you have created a program you would like to save, press the [STORE] button to enter Store mode. This will cause the Numeric LED Display to blink with the number of the current program. If you were on a Preset program while editing, you will not be able to store the program until you select one of the 30 User program locations as its destination. To do this, use the [DOWN/UP] buttons.
Basics of Equalization 3 Channel Copy You can use the Link function while editing to help set up identical curves on both channels. But at some point the curves may need to diverge slightly (or significantly). Rather than unlinking the channels and starting all over again on Channel B, we have included a handy feature called Channel Copy as a subset of Store mode. The Channel Copy feature is a real time-saver.
3 Basics of Equalization Basic operation: Audition mode No doubt there will be times when you want to switch back and forth between different programs to determine which one is best suited for the audio source. But as easy as it is to navigate between the DEQ230's programs in Program mode, it's still difficult to focus on what's happening to the audio when you're making sure you land on the right program. Audition mode provides the solution.
Basics of Equalization 3 Audition Automation There are two ways to toggle between the programs in the Audition List: manually and automatically. The DEQ230 defaults to the automatic method, which we call Audition Automation. Once you have finished adding programs to the Audition List, the DEQ230 begins cycling through the programs from left to right. It will start with the currently active program, pause for several seconds, and move on to the next.
3 Basics of Equalization Basic operation: Channel Level mode Channel Level mode allows you to adjust the output level of channels A and B independently or simultaneously. Use this feature to compensate for a reduction or increase of signal level due to the equalization curve you have selected. To enter this mode you must start from Program mode.
Basics of Equalization 3 The "Hidden" Modes There are several sub-levels of operation that can be accessed from Program mode by pressing different buttons. We covered Channel Level mode and Audition mode on the preceding pages; here are two more “hidden” modes: Demonstration mode Sometimes it’s fun to have a lot of little lights flashing from the stage or in the studio. The DEQ230 has a special key combination that will activate a “light show” for the entertainment of your clients, audience, or children.
3 Basics of Equalization Setup mode This is where you will find some of the features that govern the way the DEQ230 operates in the other modes. They are what you would call "Global" settings, in that their status is not stored with a program. No matter which program you call up, these settings will not change. And since they make such a big difference in how the unit works, they have been "tucked away" so they won’t be altered accidentally. To access Setup mode, first you must turn off the DEQ230.
Basics of Equalization 3 Here's a description of what each function does. Button 1: Master Level (+/- 6 dB) The Master Level function is one way to customize the DEQ230 to your environment. If the equipment in your setup tends to send very hot signals, you can use this function to prevent the output of the DEQ230 from clipping. When a hot line level signal comes in, the DEQ230 has plenty of headroom to deal with it.
3 Basics of Equalization If the Release Edit Group feature is off, the next [BAND SELECT] button you press after you have changed the level of the Edit Group will simply add that band to the Edit Group. The upside of this is the convenience of being able to edit three frequencies +3 dB, for example, and then add another frequency to the pile and edit them all another +2 dB without having to reselect the first three.
Basics of Equalization 3 current program, and/or storing a different program on top of the one you have created for a particular application. Before you try this feature, make sure you're happy with the program you had selected prior to turning the unit off. It will be the program you are "stuck" with when you turn the unit back on after enabling the Lock feature.
3 Basics of Equalization Button 9: System Exclusive Receive (Waiting) As long as this page is active, the DEQ230D will allow an external device such as a computer to transmit a new bank of 30 User programs into its User memory space. Once the external device begins sending the proper sys-ex data, the DEQ230D displays the message “Rcving,” or “receiving.” Depending on the speed of the transmission, the transfer can happen so quickly you may not see that message.
Basics of Equalization 3 “Auto” is the default value. To force the DEQ230D to listen only to the balanced inputs, switch this setting from Auto to Analog.
3 Basics of Equalization Equalization Artifacts When you apply a lot of EQ (6dB or more), you may hear some consequences on the output. Here are a few common side effects to applying a lot of equalization and some ways to avoid them. Distortion If you boost too many frequencies too high, you will distort the output. If this happens, the red CLIP LED will light. To avoid this, turn down the signal being sent to the DEQ230.
Basics of Equalization 3 Constant Q vs. Variable Q What makes the DEQ230 unique? At their inception, graphic equalizers relied solely on a form of equalization known as "Variable Q." The DEQ230, on the other hand, is what is known as a "Constant Q" equalizer. This method of equalization is a relatively recent development in the history of sound reinforcement and recording technology.
3 Basics of Equalization In the next illustration, the difference between a narrow Q and a wide Q is seen: Variable Q Now we're ready for a visual definition of the term Variable Q. In the next illustration, the wider and more gradual curve represents a lower gain setting for a variable Q equalizer.
Basics of Equalization 3 Multi-band application and results So far we have only dealt with cutting or boosting single frequency bands. The differences between the constant Q and variable Q methods become more "graphic," if you will, when adjacent frequency bands are involved. In this example, three adjacent bands are used.
3 Basics of Equalization To further illustrate the differences, here is a pair of examples in which three adjacent bands have settings of + 3 dB, -3 dB, and + 3 dB, respectively: Remember that at lower gain settings, there is an even wider Q for a given frequency band on a variable Q equalizer. The center frequency band needs to be edited even more drastically in order for any noticeable reduction of frequencies in its range.
4 Applications This section is designed to get you started with the DEQ230 by giving some sample settings. These are merely suggested settings; experiment and find your own once you begin to hear what the DEQ230 does to your sound. In a way, it’s absurd to suggest EQ settings without knowing what the source sounds like. EQ is a tool that’s used to change the timbre of a sound, and it’s impossible to suggest an EQ setting that, for example, will make all guitars sound better.
4 Applications Eliminating Feedback During a live performance, you may experience feedback if a microphone is placed too close to a monitor. However, this feedback often occurs at one frequency before it happens at others. You can "ring out" the monitor by using EQ to cut the frequency that’s feeding back. The following is best to try when the band and audience are not present: 1. Insert the EQ between the mixer’s monitor output and the monitor amplifier. 2.
Applications 4 Comb filtering You'll understand how this effect process got its name once you see the way it looks when recreated on the DEQ230: 1. Follow the instructions for items 1 and 2 from Step 2. 2. Starting from the far left of Channel A, press every other [BAND SELECT] button and take those bands all the way down to -12 dB. Then select the unedited bands and boost them +6 dB. When you’re done, look at the LEDs on the DEQ230 and remember the “comb” analogy.
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5 Program Charts Note for all program charts An "L" in the middle of the picture of the front panel indicates that a program’s LINK function is active. # Title Description 0 Flat The DEQ230 will not affect the signal; the output signal will sound the same as the input signal. 1 Smile The smile curve is a time-tested technique used by live sound engineers. No time for a sound check? Start here. 2 Brighten If you need to give your sound a little sharpness to cut through...
5 Program Charts 6 Loudness Plus This curve approximates what happens when you press the “Boost” button on some consumer-level stereo equipment. It makes for a nicely balanced sound when listening at low levels. 7 Techno This setting emphasizes the extremes to get the dancing bodies really moving.
Program Charts 12 Cross-Over Split a full-range mono signal into both channels; send the output of Channel A to an amplifier feeding the woofers and send Channel B to an amplifier feeding the tweeters. 13 Hum Reduction Some signals have 60Hz hum no matter what you do. This program de-emphasizes 60Hz and its harmonics without taking a noticeable bite out of the sound. 14 Telephone 15 Less SSS 5 Use this as an effect to simulate what signals sound like passing through the phone.
5 62 Program Charts 18 Narrow Boost 3 (800Hz) See note for programs 16-20 and 22-26 19 Narrow Boost 4 (2.
Program Charts 25 Narrow Cut 4 (2.5kHz) See note for programs 16-20 and 22-26 26 Narrow Cut 5 (8kHz) See note for programs 16-20 and 22-26 27 High Shelf Use this to eliminate the high end and leave everything else untouched (corner frequency is approximately 7kHz). 28 Sine Wave Pattern I Mostly for show, but because Channel A & B are not linked, there can be some happy accidents in terms of how these programs affect your signals. 29 Sine Wave Pattern II See note for program 28.
5 64 Program Charts 31 Tape Hiss Reduction This is a way to deal with noisy source material that originates from magnetic media. 32 Mini TV 33 Megaphone Bandlimit 34 Air Boost Just the opposite of the high shelf curve. 35 AM Radio Another band-limiting curve for using as an effect. 36 R&B Radio A simulation of the general emphasis of certain bass and treble frequencies found across modern R&B radio stations.
Program Charts 38 Electric Guitar Bandlimit 39 Rap Drums Hype 40 Sizzle Cymbals 41 Cardboard Tube 42 Bathtub 43 Mild Comb This is a variant on the comb-filter effect that is not as drastic as some of the other comb filter presets. 44 Resonance (125Hz) This setting is meant to emphasize 125Hz and all its harmonics such as 250Hz, 500Hz, 1kHz, 2kHz, etc. 5 Very often a really hot guitar track has to find a place in a crowded mix. This is one place to start looking for that special fit.
5 Program Charts 45 11kHz Sample Rate 46 Next Door Neighbor If you want to digitize your signal at a very low sample rate like 11kHz for effect, bandlimiting it to half the sample rate (approximately 5kHz) will help you avoid some nasty sounding artifacts of the sampling process. This is what it sounds like when there's a party going on next door.
Program Charts 51 Proximity Effect 52 Presence This curve gives the signal a little more life when you want to get the listener's attention. 53 Distance Sometimes you want the signal to not be so much of an attention grabber. 54 Combfilter Combo This is just whacky. This is what happens when you send a stereo signal through two different comb filter curves--Channel A using a resonant base of 125Hz while Channel B uses a resonant base of 50Hz. 55 Blank Store one of your programs here.
5 Program Charts 57 Blank Store one of your programs here. 58 Blank Store one of your programs here. 59 Blank Store one of your programs here. Notes regarding the Settings Chart on the next page Let’s face it; 30 User Memory locations is a lot (not so very long ago, that was unheard of for a graphic EQ!), but it’s entirely possible you’ll fill those up someday.
Program Charts 5 DEQ230 Settings Chart 69
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6 Troubleshooting Restoring the Factory Programs & Defaults There is a power-up button combination that will restore the DEQ230's User programs to the factory default programs. This same combination of buttons will reset all of the Setup functions to their default values. This procedure is called "reinitializing." WARNING! Following the procedures in this section will ERASE ALL OF YOUR USER PROGRAMS and replace them with the User programs that shipped with the DEQ230.
6 Troubleshooting Troubleshooting Index Symptoms No audio at outputs. Cause No input audio. Bad cables. Destination is turned down. Weak output signal. Input level weak. Output level weak. Clip LED lights often. (Decide which is the case by pressing the Bypass button.) Input level too high. Output level too high. (Decide which is the case by pressing the Bypass button.) 72 Can’t edit program, can’t select new program. Numeric LED Display keeps flashing “Li.” DEQ230 is locked.
Troubleshooting 6 Refer All Servicing to Alesis We believe that the DEQ230 is one of the best signal processors that can be made using current technology, and should provide years of trouble-free use. However, should problems occur, DO NOT attempt to service the unit yourself unless you have training and experience. Service on this product should be performed only by qualified technicians. NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.
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Specifications DEQ230D Analog I/O (switchable) Input connectors: Output Connectors: 2 balanced 1/4” TRS jacks 2 balanced 1/4” TRS jacks Switch set to +4: Nominal input level: Maximum input level: +4dBu (-15dBFS) +19dBu (6.9 Vrms) Nominal Output Level: Maximum Output Level: +4dBu (-15dBFS) +19dBu (6.9 Vrms) Switch set to –10: Nominal input level: Maximum input level: -10dBV (-16dBFS) +6dBV (2.0 Vrms) Nominal Output Level: Maximum Output Level: -10dBV (-16dBFS) +6dBV (2.
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Warranty / Contact Alesis Limited Warranty ALESIS CORPORATION ("ALESIS") warrants this product to be free of defects in material and workmanship for a period of one (1) year for parts and for a period of one (1) year for labor from the date of original retail purchase. This warranty is enforceable only by the original retail purchaser and cannot be transferred or assigned. For the most effective service, the purchaser should register the purchase on the ALESIS website at http://www.alesis.
Warranty/Contact Alesis Contact Information Alesis Distribution, LLC Los Angeles, CA USA E-mail: Website: support@alesis.com http://www.alesis.com Alesis DEQ230/DEQ230D Reference Manual Revision A by Randy Lee, with thanks to Mike Murphy Revision B by Randy Lee Copyright 2003, Alesis Distribution, LLC. All rights reserved Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited. Specifications subject to change without notice.
