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 Ampliton.......................................................................4 Important features of your Ampliton ........................................................4 Ampliton Key Features .................................................................................
Table Of Contents Using the Foot Switch ...................................................................................34 Sample Settings.............................................................35 Blank templates...............................................................................................38 Troubleshooting............................................................39 Troubleshooting Index................................................................
Introduction Welcome! Thank you for making the Alesis Ampliton 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 Ampliton Your new Ampliton is a member of the Alesis ModFX family of performance effects boxes. This particular ModFX unit, the Ampliton, is an amplitude modulator that combines a tremolo effect with an autopan effect. Each box in the line provides a different set of sound effects and signal processing, and they are easy to arrange and connect to each other.
Introduction Ampliton Key Features • • • • • • • • • • • • • Two digital effects in one box (tremolo and autopan), each with its own separate controls for modulation sources, depth and speed Uniform, friendly, uncomplicated user interface—no fiddling with complicated menus or “hidden” knobs Tempo synchronization for tremolo and/or autopan speed keeps effects modulation in time with the music Tap Tempo makes it easy to set the speed of tremolo and/or autopan by tapping a beat on the top panel Reset Mod let
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 Ampliton. 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 Ampliton 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 Ampliton right away. If you have questions about any of the features, don’t worry – later chapters will unveil the mysteries of the Ampliton's special features. If you're new to signal processing...
1 Quick Start Guide A quick overview of the controls Rocker switches The TREMOLO and AUTOPAN switches select the current effect mode, as shown by the LEDs next to them. Reset Mod Restarts the modulation from the beginning of its cycle. Generates a trigger in TRIGGERED mode, or changes the pattern in PATTERN mode. The RATE knobs affect the speed of modulation, in cooperation with the TEMPO SYNC and TAP TEMPO buttons. See page33. DEPTH controls how much of the effect you’ll hear.
2 Connections Unpacking and Inspection Your Ampliton 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 Ampliton for servicing. The shipping carton should contain the following items: • Ampliton 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.
2 Connections Connecting audio The Ampliton 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 Ampliton 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 Ampliton, hook it up this way: 1. Connect a 1/4" phone cord to the [LEFT/MONO] INPUT of the Ampliton 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 Ampliton 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 Ampliton 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 Ampliton.
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 flanging it and sending it to the power amp. Most guitar amps are single channel, so connect a single insert cable from the amp to the LEFT INPUT and LEFT OUTPUT of the Ampliton. Some amps have separate “effect send” and “effect return” jacks; for these, use standard cables.
2 Connections Connecting to equipment with XLR inputs and outputs: If you are connecting the Ampliton 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 Ampliton can accept (about +12 dBu) even when its trim is at minimum.
Connections 2 Using the ModLink The Ampliton 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 Ampliton This section defines tremolo and autopan, and explains the functions of the Ampliton’s controls in greater detail. The two sides of the Ampliton The basic operation of the Ampliton couldn’t be simpler. It gives you access to two different kinds of amplitude-based effects: on the left side is tremolo, which feeds the autopan on the right side. Each side is independent of the other, so they can be used alone or together.
3 Using the Ampliton What is Tempo Sync? Tremolo and Autopan are both rhythmic effects—they have a beat. Sometimes, you’ll want the rate of the effect to match the beat of your music instead of being random. For example, you can set the rate so that the Autopan effect pans from side to side once per measure, or once per quarter note.
Using the Ampliton 3 Description of Controls Rate The [RATE] knobs change the speed of the Ampliton’s effects: • The [RATE] knob on the left controls how quickly the Tremolo effect will happen. • The [RATE] knob on the right controls how quickly the Autopan effect will happen. In normal modulation modes (TEMPO SYNC LED off), turning the [RATE] knobs will smoothly alter the rate from very slow to very fast. Turn the knobs clockwise for a faster tremolo or autopan effect.
3 Using the Ampliton Tremolo Mode Rocker Switch The up/down rocker switch beside the Tremolo label on the left side of the unit selects the type of tremolo effect. The LEDs next to the switch light up to indicate the current mode. There are four kinds of Tremolo available, explained below. The rocker switch also selects TEMPO SYNC mode, as explained earlier. Triangle This mode uses a triangle wave for the tremolo effect.
Using the Ampliton 3 Pattern This mode randomly generates a 16-step sequence to modulate the tremolo or autopan and repeats it over and over. Pattern mode sometimes makes the level jump quickly from step to step, while other levels “glide” from step to step. It sounds somewhat like using “sample and hold” to modulate a VCA on a synthesizer, except that the pattern repeats regularly until you change the pattern. • Press the [RESET MOD] button to generate a new 16-step pattern.
3 Using the Ampliton Autopan Mode Rocker Switch The up/down rocker switch beside the Autopan label on the right side of the unit selects the type of autopan effect. The LEDs next to the switch light up to indicate the current mode. There are five kinds or shapes of Autopan available. Four of these are similar to the Tremolo modes, except of course they modulate the stereo pan position instead of the amplitude of the signals. Triangle This mode selects a triangle wave for the autopan effect.
Using the Ampliton 3 Uncertainty This mode randomly generates a continually altering waveform for the autopan. Pattern This mode randomly generates a 16-step pattern for the autopan modulation and repeats it over and over. Pattern mode sometimes makes the level jump quickly from step to step, while other levels “glide” from step to step. Another important difference is that the pattern will repeat regularly until you change the pattern.
3 Using the Ampliton Reset Mod Press this button to reset the autopan and tremolo modulation as follows: • In TRIANGLE and SQUARE modes, press [RESET MOD] to start the wave from the beginning of its phase. In Autopan, the wave starts at the right side, then moves to the center/left. In Tremolo, the wave starts loud, then becomes softer. • In TRIGGERED mode press this button to generate a trigger for the modulation (momentarily speeding it up before slowing back down to the normal rate).
Using the Ampliton 3 Tap Tempo This button affects the speed of the effect whenever the tremolo and/or autopan is set to TEMPO SYNC mode. In that mode, 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 from four to eight taps in a row at a consistent speed, especially if you’re changing the tempo drastically.
3 Using the Ampliton Bypass This button sends the signal directly from the input to the output without any effect. Press [BYPASS] to check the sound of the source without any effect from the Ampliton. When the red BYPASS LED is lit, both Tremolo and Autopan are off. The Bypass function can also be activated by the foot switch.
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 Ampliton to help get you started. Simply set the knobs on your Ampliton 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.
4 Sample Settings Around the World This setting will make the sound revolve around your head. Both Tremolo and Autopan are synchronized at full depth. Use [TAP TEMPO] to match the speed to your music, and experiment with changing the [RATE] of either side. DJ Transform This is a DJ transform (gating) effect in time with the music at 16th note intervals. Use [BYPASS] to toggle the effect on and off on cue.
Sample Settings 4 Spin the Wheel Tremolo starts fast, ends slow, and you never know quite where the pan will end up. Trigger off the audio input or press [RESET MOD] to trigger it manually Blank Fill in your own favorite settings here. Photocopy the next page if you need more space.
4 Sample Settings Blank templates 38
5 Troubleshooting Troubleshooting Index If you experience problems while operating your Ampliton, 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 Troubleshooting Symptoms AC hum 40 Cause Problem with the source Ground loop Solution Try bypassing the Ampliton by connecting the input cables to the output cables and see if the problem remains. Place all equipment in the studio on a common ground (see next page).
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 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 Ampliton’s metal and plastic surfaces. For heavy dirt, use a nonabrasive 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 AUTOPAN, 25 switch, 16 Autopan switch, 30 BYPASS, 16, 34 with foot switch, 34 cables, 22 DEPTH, 16, 27 digital converters, 34, 45 DSP, 45 Effect Send/Return, 20 FOOT SWITCH, 16, 34 Ground Loop, 41 grounding, 7 guitar, 18 Hums and buzzes, 41 INPUTS, 15 INPUTS and OUTPUTS, 16 Insert Cables, 19 levels, 22 LFO, 25 mixing console hookup, 20 ModLink, 16, 23 OUTPUTS, 15 on ModLink slave units, 23 Pattern, 29, 31 power adapter, 17 Power cable, 7 Rack mounting, 17 RATE, 16, 27 Reset Mod, 16, 32
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 Studio Electronics Los Angeles, CA USA E-mail: Website: support@alesis.com http://www.alesis.com Alesis Ampliton Reference Manual Revision 1.0 by Alex Souppa & Dan Tinen Copyright 2002, Alesis. All rights reserved Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited. Specifications subject to change without notice. Trademarks are the property of their respective holders.