Reference Manual
This page intentionally left blank 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% Copyright 2002, Alesis. All rights reserved Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited. Specifications subject to change without notice. All trademarks are the property of their respective holders.
Table of Contents Introduction....................................................................3 Welcome! .........................................................................................................3 About the Faze ................................................................................4 Important features of your Faze .................................................................4 Faze Key Features ..................................................................................
Table Of Contents Line conditioners and spike protectors ......................................................42 Care and Maintenance ................................................................43 Cleaning............................................................................................................43 Refer all servicing to Alesis...........................................................................43 Obtaining repair service ..........................................................
Introduction Welcome! Thank you for making the Alesis Faze a part of your studio. 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 have achieved with them. One of Alesis' goals is to make high-quality studio equipment available to everyone, and this Reference Manual is an important part of that.
Introduction About the Faze Your new Faze is a member of the Alesis ModFX family of performance effects boxes. This particular ModFX unit is a highquality stereo phase shifter. Each ModFX unit provides a different set of sound effects and signal processing, and they are easy to arrange and connect to each other.
Introduction Faze Key Features • • • • • • • • • Digital emulation of classic stereo phaser effects, with five different modulation sources Uniform, friendly, uncomplicated user interface—no fiddling with complicated menus or “hidden” knobs Tempo synchronization keeps phasing effect in time with the music Tap Tempo makes it easy to set the speed of phasing by tapping a beat on the top panel Reset Mod lets you reset the phase of any modulation shape from its beginning Stereo processing via four 1/4” unbala
Introduction How to Use This Manual A little technical knowledge will help you get the most out of your gear...it’s really pretty simple. This manual is divided into the following sections describing the various functions and applications for the Faze. While it's a good idea to read through the entire manual once carefully, those having general knowledge about effect devices should use the table of contents to look up specific functions.
Safety Instructions/Notices 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 11. Use only attachments or accessories specified by the manufacturer. 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.
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.
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 11. N’utilisez que des accessoires spécifiés par le constructeur. 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 11. Benutzen Sie nur das vom Hersteller empfohlene Zubehör. 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.
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1 Quick Start Guide If you can’t wait to get started The Alesis Faze is a unique product, but its basic hookup and operation is similar to other effects units in most respects. If you're experienced with signal processors, this chapter is a "shorthand" guide for those who want to start using the Faze right away. If you have questions about any of the features, don’t worry – later chapters will unveil the mysteries of the Faze's special features. If you're new to signal processing...
1 Quick Start Guide A quick overview of the controls TYPE The TYPE switch selects the timbre of phasing effect, and how the left channel and the right channel of the Faze relate to each other, as shown by the LEDs next to the switch. See page 31. Reset Mod Restarts the phasor from the beginning of its cycle. Changes the pattern in PATTERN mode. MODULATION SELECT switch selects the type of wave used to modulate the phasor.
2 Connections Unpacking and Inspection Your Faze was packed carefully at the factory. The shipping carton was designed to protect the unit during shipping. Please retain this container in the highly unlikely event that you need to return the Faze for servicing. The shipping carton should contain the following items: • Faze with the same serial number as shown on the shipping carton • Power Adapter • This instruction manual To register your purchase, go to the Alesis website at www.alesis.com.
2 Connections Connecting audio The Faze will work in many different applications, whether you are connecting an instrument directly into it, or connecting it through a mixing console. But since the Faze is a stereo effect unit, it’s important to know whether the source will be stereo or mono. Mono In, Mono or Stereo Out If you’re connecting a guitar or bass directly to the Faze, hook it up this way: 1. Connect a 1/4" phone cord to the [LEFT/MONO] INPUT of the Faze from a mono source.
Connections 2 Connecting to the Channel Inserts of a mixing console: Most recording consoles have a jack near the mic and line inputs labeled "Insert". This is typically a TRS jack with the send and return on the same jack. To use the Faze as a channel insert, you will need an insert cable (not included). Ring: Insert return Tip: Insert send Sleeve: Insert Ground Insert SEND: To ModFX INPUT Insert RETURN: From ModFX OUTPUT This cable splits the TRS insert jack into two unbalanced mono connectors.
2 Connections Connecting to the Main Outputs of a mixing console: In addition to channel inserts, most mixing consoles have main insert jacks near the main outputs. You can use insert cables to connect the Faze to the main L/R bus the same way you connect it to a pair of channels. Simply connect one insert cable to the left main insert of the mixer, and connect the two mono jacks to the left INPUT and OUTPUT of the Faze.
Connections 2 Connecting to the inserts on an instrument amplifier: The insert send on a guitar or bass amp is usually labeled "effects send and return" or "insert send and return". This allows you to preamplify your instrument before phasing it and sending it to the power amp. Most guitar amps are single channel, so connect a single insert cable (see page 19) from the amp to the LEFT INPUT and LEFT OUTPUT of the Faze.
2 Connections Connecting to equipment with XLR inputs and outputs: If you are connecting the Faze to a product with XLR balanced inputs and outputs, you will need to convert this signal to a 1/4” unbalanced connector. Make sure that Pin 2 of the XLR connector is connected to the Tip of the 1/4” adapter or cable. Watch out for high levels, however: some XLR sources put out levels close to the maximum the Faze can accept (about +12 dBu) even when its trim is at minimum.
Connections 2 Using the ModLink The Faze can be connected to other effect boxes in the ModFX family via the ModLink. The ModLink is a cable-free connection between two ModFX units that transfers digital audio and word clock. The 9-pin male connector on the left side of the unit is the ModLink IN port. The 9-pin female connector on the right side is the ModLink OUT port. By directly connecting two ModFX units via the ModLink, audio will pass from the left-most unit to the right-most unit.
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3 Using the Faze This section defines phasing, and explains the functions of the Faze’s controls in greater detail. The technical information in the next few pages will help you get the most out of your gear...it’s really pretty simple. About phase shifting Phase shifters have been among the most popular signal processors since their introduction in the late 1960s. They provide body and interest to guitars, keyboards, and voices.
3 Using the Faze What is Tempo Sync? Phase shifting has a regular cycle over time. Sometimes, you’ll want the rate of phasing to match the beat of your music instead of being random. For example, you can set the rate so that the phasing effect completes each cycle once per measure, or to a vibrato-like effect that happens in sixteenth notes.
Using the Faze 3 Description of Controls Rate The [RATE] knob changes the phasing modulation speed. When the mod source is set to ENVELOPE it affects the attack and release time of the envelope. In all other modes it affects the LFO (low frequency oscillator) speed. See the descriptions of the Modulation sources for more complete details of how [RATE] relates to each type. In normal modulation modes (TEMPO SYNC LED off), turning the [RATE] knob alters the rate continuously from very slow to very fast.
3 Using the Faze Center The [CENTER] knob changes the center frequency of the Faze’s main filter notch. Its effect varies depending on the mode, [DEPTH] and [RATE], but in frequency terms, when the [CENTER] knob is at the 12 o’clock position, you’ll hear the frequency of the phase shift oscillate up and down from the center frequency.
Using the Faze 3 Modulation Select Switch The up/down rocker switch on the right side of the unit selects the modulation source for the phaser. The LEDs next to the switch light up to indicate the current mode. There are five kinds of modulation available, explained below. The rocker switch also selects TEMPO SYNC mode, as explained earlier. Triangle This mode uses a triangle wave for the phasing effect.
3 Using the Faze Faze almost jitters as it tries to follow the envelope of the incoming signal exactly. In this mode, TEMPO SYNC/TAP TEMPO features have no effect. Uncertainty This mode generates a continually altering random waveform for the phase modulation, changing direction at various points during the cycle. Pattern This mode randomly generates a 16-step sequence to modulate the phase and repeats it over and over.
Using the Faze 3 TYPE Rocker Switch The up/down rocker switch on the left side of the unit selects the type of phasing effect. The LEDs next to the switch light up to indicate the current mode. The Type switch changes the stereo mode—in other words, how its left and right signal paths relate to each other—and the number of filters being used. There are five phasing types available, explained below.
3 Using the Faze Async Stereo In ASYNC (asynchronous) STEREO mode, the modulation of the left and right channels of the Faze are not synchronized. The left and right channels will have a similar rate, but “drift” from each other in a random way (except in PATTERN mode). Liquid Metal This mode is unique to the Faze and takes phase shifting to a whole new level. By adding over three times the filter stages of classic pedals, the phasing effect becomes so steep it sounds like chorusing or flanging.
Using the Faze 3 Reset Mod Press this button to reset the phase of the phaser modulation source as follows: • In TRIANGLE mode, press [RESET MOD] to start the wave from the beginning of its phase. The “starting point” of the phase shift is determined by the setting of the [CENTER] control • In PATTERN mode press this button to generate a new 16step pattern. Bypass This button sends the signal directly from the input to the output without any effect.
3 Using the Faze Tap Tempo This button affects the speed of the effect whenever the [MODULATION] switch is set to a TEMPO SYNC mode. At any time you can tap this button along with the music to set a new tempo. The Tap Tempo light will flash at the current tempo. Tap Tempo technique For a reliable tempo setting, make several taps in a row at a consistent speed, especially if you’re changing the tempo drastically. Watch the flashing of the light to see the current tempo of the Faze.
4 Sample Settings While there’s nothing like discovering new sounds for yourself, we thought it would be a good idea to provide some sample settings of the Faze to help get you started. Simply set the knobs on your Faze so they’re at the positions shown, and press the rocker switches so each effect is in the mode shown by the LEDs. Feel free to modify these any way you want to suit your particular playing style. Fazer On Stun For adding harmonic interest to any instrumental part.
4 Sample Settings Faze Jumper Tap quarter notes in to this patch, and the phase will jump to different levels once per beat. Turn the [RATE] control clockwise to make it jump levels on 1/8th or 1/16th notes. Phreaky Faze This uses the UNCERTAINTY wave with REGEN set to maximum. The CONTRARY STEREO type makes this especially effective on headphones. Triggered Sweep Adjust the input level and *INPUT TRIM carefully to get the desired envelope effect.
Sample Settings 4 Faze Tracker Tap quarter notes in to this patch, and the phase will jump to different levels each beat, in a recurring PATTERN. Turn the [RATE] control to the “12 o’clock” position to make it jump in 1/16th notes; press [RESET MOD] to change the pattern. Blank Fill in your own favorite settings here. Photocopy the next page if you need more space.
4 Sample Settings Blank Settings Templates 38
5 Troubleshooting Troubleshooting Index If you experience problems while operating your Faze, please use the following table to locate possible causes and solutions before contacting Alesis Product Support for assistance. Symptoms No audio outputs. Cause No input audio(SIGNAL LED doesn’t flash). Bad cables. Destination is turned down.
5 40 Troubleshooting Symptoms AC hum Cause Ground loop Whistles or tones in output Can’t hear phasing effect, even with [DEPTH] at maximum [REGEN] set too high [CENTER] set to maximum Solution Place all equipment in the studio on a common ground (see next page) Set [REGEN] to center position for no feedback Set [CENTER] to the middle of its range, or change the TYPE.
Troubleshooting 5 Avoiding ground loop noise In today’s studio, where it seems every piece of equipment has its own computer chip inside, there are many opportunities for ground loop problems to occur. These show up as hums, buzzes or sometimes radio reception and can occur if a piece of equipment "sees" two or more different paths to ground.
5 Troubleshooting 4. Keep all cables as short as possible, especially in unbalanced circuits. If the basic experiments don’t uncover the source of the problem, consult your dealer or technician trained in proper studio grounding techniques. In some cases, a "star grounding" scheme must be used, with the mixer at the center of the star providing the shield ground on telescoping shields, which do NOT connect to the chassis ground of other equipment in the system.
Troubleshooting 5 Care and Maintenance Cleaning Disconnect the AC cord, then use a damp cloth to clean the Faze’s metal and plastic surfaces. For heavy dirt, use a non-abrasive household cleaner such as Formula 409™ or Fantastik™. DO NOT SPRAY THE CLEANER DIRECTLY ONTO THE FRONT OF THE UNIT AS IT MAY DESTROY THE LUBRICANTS USED IN THE SWITCHES AND CONTROLS! Spray onto a cloth, then use cloth to clean the unit.
5 Troubleshooting Obtaining repair service Before contacting Alesis, check over all your connections, and make sure you’ve read the manual. Customers in the USA and Canada: If the problem persists, contact Alesis and request the Product Support department. Make sure you have the unit’s serial number with you. Talk the problem over with one of our technicians; if necessary, you will be given a return order (RO) number and instructions on how to return the unit.
Specifications Audio Input Input Connectors: 2 unbalanced 1/4” jacks Maximum Input Level: +10 dBV Nominal Level: -10 dBV Input Impedance: 470kΩ Input Converter Resolution: 24-bit, 48 kHz sampling All measurements done over a 22Hz – 22kHz range with a 1kHz sine wave at -1dBFS input. Impedances are measured at 1kHz.
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Index amplifier, 21 ASYNC STEREO mode, 32 audio input tempo set by, 34 BYPASS, 16, 33 with foot switch, 33 cables, 22 CENTER, 16, 28, 40 effect on RESET MOD, 33 CLASSIC mode, 31 CONTRARY STEREO mode, 28, 31 controls, 16 DEPTH, 16, 27 interaction with CENTER, 28 digital converters, 33, 45 digital signal processing, 4 DSP, 45 DUAL MONO mode, 25, 31 Effect Send/Return, 20 ENVELOPE, 29 and RATE knob, 27 not affected by Tempo Sync, 34 feedback controlled by REGEN knob, 28 flangers, 25 FOOT SWITCH, 16, 33 ground
Warranty / Contact Alesis 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 Information Alesis Contact Information Alesis Los Angeles, CA USA E-mail: Website: support@alesis.com http://www.alesis.com Alesis Faze Reference Manual Revision 1.0 by Dan Tinen Copyright 2002, Alesis. All rights reserved Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited. Specifications subject to change without notice. All trademarks are the property of their respective holders.