A Harman
FX |
OUTPUT |
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Program |
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Bypass |
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0 |
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Clip |
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6 |
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DSP |
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12 |
-18 |
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SIGNAL |
PROCESSOR |
PREAMP |
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GUITAR |
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PRESENCE
S-DISC™
PROCESSING
Signal Processor
Owner's Manual
Valve FX Owner’s Manual
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Table Of Contents............................................................. |
1 |
1 |
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Introduction ....................................................................... |
3 |
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Safety Precautions ............................................................ |
3 |
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Lithium Battery Warning.................................................... |
4 |
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Warranty............................................................................ |
4 |
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SECTION 1 - STARTUP |
Supplying Power ............................................................... |
6 |
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Front Panel Controls ......................................................... |
6 |
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Input............................................................................ |
6 |
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Headphone Output..................................................... |
6 |
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Main Output Level ...................................................... |
6 |
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Presence Control........................................................ |
6 |
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Display Window.......................................................... |
7 |
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Cursor Keys................................................................ |
7 |
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Effects Access............................................................ |
8 |
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Global Buttons............................................................ |
8 |
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Data Wheel ................................................................. |
8 |
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Power Switch .............................................................. |
8 |
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Rear Panel Connections ................................................... |
8 |
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AC Line Input.............................................................. |
8 |
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Foot Controller ............................................................ |
8 |
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MIDI In ........................................................................ |
8 |
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MIDI Out ..................................................................... |
8 |
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Outputs ....................................................................... |
9 |
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Input............................................................................ |
9 |
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MIDI and Audio Setups..................................................... |
9 |
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SECTION 2 - BASIC OPERATIONS |
Main Operating Mode....................................................... |
11 |
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Parameter Architecture..................................................... |
11 |
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Accessing Factory Programs ........................................... |
12 |
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SECTION 3 - PROGRAMMING |
Using the Function Keys................................................... |
13 |
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More Special Characters .................................................. |
13 |
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The Effects Access Keys.................................................. |
14 |
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About The I/O Module....................................................... |
14 |
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Modifying Factory Programs............................................. |
14 |
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Basic Program Creation.................................................... |
16 |
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Selecting an Algorithm...................................................... |
16 |
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Storing and Naming Programs ......................................... |
17 |
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SECTION4-EFFECTSANDPARAMETERS About The Effects Library ................................................. |
20 |
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Analog Effects................................................................... |
20 |
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Compressor ................................................................ |
20 |
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Distortion..................................................................... |
20 |
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Equalizers ......................................................................... |
22 |
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4-band PEQ / 10-band GEQ ...................................... |
22 |
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Cabinet Emulator........................................................ |
23 |
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Reverbs............................................................................. |
24 |
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BigVerb / MFX Reverb................................................ |
24 |
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Gated Reverb ............................................................. |
28 |
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Delays / Sampler............................................................... |
30 |
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Delays......................................................................... |
30 |
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Sampler ...................................................................... |
32 |
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Pitch Shifters ..................................................................... |
34 |
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Pitch Shifters............................................................... |
34 |
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Detuners ..................................................................... |
35 |
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Whammy™ ................................................................. |
35 |
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Arpeggiators............................................................... |
36 |
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Table of Contents
2
SECTION 5 - THE UTILITY MENU
SECTION 6 - APPENDIX
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Valve FX Owner’s Manual |
Modulation Effects ............................................................ |
37 |
Choruses .................................................................... |
37 |
Flangers...................................................................... |
38 |
Phasers....................................................................... |
39 |
Tremolos ..................................................................... |
39 |
Auto Panners .............................................................. |
39 |
Mixers................................................................................ |
40 |
More .................................................................................. |
41 |
Noise Gates................................................................ |
41 |
DSP Level ................................................................... |
42 |
Wahs........................................................................... |
42 |
Duckers ...................................................................... |
42 |
Phase Inverter ............................................................ |
43 |
Utility Menu ....................................................................... |
44 |
MIDI Sub-Menu ................................................................. |
44 |
MIDI Channel .................................................................... |
44 |
Send Prg (Program Change) ............................................ |
45 |
Prg Send Map................................................................... |
45 |
Prg Rcv Map ..................................................................... |
47 |
Continuous Controller Links.............................................. |
48 |
Display CC’s ..................................................................... |
52 |
Bulk Dump ........................................................................ |
52 |
MIDI Program Dump......................................................... |
53 |
MIDI Merging .................................................................... |
54 |
Programming The Footswitch ........................................... |
54 |
Patch Assignment............................................................. |
55 |
Program, Bank Up/Down .................................................. |
56 |
Toggle CC......................................................................... |
56 |
Int Ped = CC ..................................................................... |
56 |
List Up / Down .................................................................. |
57 |
Prg List Asssign ................................................................ |
57 |
Continuous Control Pedal ................................................. |
58 |
Assign CC Number........................................................... |
58 |
CC Transmit Channel........................................................ |
59 |
Pedal Calibration............................................................... |
60 |
LED Assignment ............................................................... |
62 |
Tuning From The Front Panel ........................................... |
62 |
Tuning From The Foot Controller ...................................... |
63 |
Changing The Tuning Reference |
.....................................63 |
Adjusting The LCD Contrast............................................. |
64 |
Output Mode..................................................................... |
64 |
Cabinet Emulation............................................................. |
65 |
Sales Banner..................................................................... |
65 |
Reinitializing The Valve FX................................................ |
66 |
Specifications.................................................................... |
68 |
Factory Algorithm Diagrams ............................................. |
69 |
Block Diagram .................................................................. |
78 |
Factory Program List......................................................... |
79 |
MIDI Implementation Chart............................................... |
80 |
Table of Contents
Valve FX Owner’s Manual
INTRODUCTION |
Congratulations, and thank you for your purchase of the DigiTech |
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Valve FX Guitar Preamp / Signal Processor. The Valve FX combines |
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the world’s most powerful digital signal processor, the S-DISC™ with |
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real tube distortion or one of our three most popular solid state |
distor- |
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3 |
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tion types. These digital multi-effects are second to none, and when |
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joined with the warmth and clarity of one of the best analog preamps |
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on the market, the results are amazing. Special features of the Valve |
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FX include: |
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• Full bandwidth effects (20-20kHz) |
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• 24-bit signal path, 48-bit internal data transmission |
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• Stereo processing |
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• Instant Module and Parameter access |
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• The Control One remote foot controller (optional) |
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• Programmable cabinet emulation for running direct to a mixing |
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console (great for both studio and live applications) |
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• Front panel Presence control and headphone output |
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• Full MIDI implementation |
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• Built-in MIDI merging (MIDI output can act as a standard out or |
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as a merged out) |
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• MIDI Transmit and Receive mapping |
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• All effects and parameters are available for MIDI continuous |
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control with up to 10 CC links available per program |
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For the first time, all of your effects needs can be filled by a single unit |
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with 16-bit digital clarity. This owner’s manual is your key to under- |
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standing the powerful world of the Valve FX. Read it carefully. After |
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you’ve had time to familiarize yourself with the unit, try experimenting |
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with unusual effects settings. You may achieve some interesting |
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results. |
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SAFETY PRECAUTIONS |
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C A U T I O N |
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RIS K O F ELECTRI C SHOCK |
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D O NO T OPEN |
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A TTENTI ON : |
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RISQU E D E CHO C ELECTRIQU E - N E PA S OUVRIR |
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WARN IN G: T O REDUC E TH E RIS K O F FIR E O R ELECTRIC |
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SHOC K D O NO T EXPOS E THI S EQUIPMEN T T O RAI N O R MOISTURE |
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The symbols shown above are internationally accepted symbols that |
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warn of potential hazards with electrical products. The lightning flash |
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with arrowpoint in an equilateral triangle means that there are danger- |
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ous voltages present within the unit. The exclamation point in an equi- |
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lateral triangle indicates that it is necessary for the user to refer to the |
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owner’s manual. |
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Introduction and Safety Precautions
4
LITHIUM BATTERY WARNING
WARRANTY
Valve FX Owner’s Manual
These symbols warn that there are no user serviceable parts inside the unit. Do not open the unit. Do not attempt to service the unit yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel. Opening the chassis for any reason will void the manufacturer’s warranty. Do not get the unit wet. If liquid is spilled on the unit, shut it off immediately and take it to a dealer for service. Disconnect the equipment during storms to prevent damage.
U.K. ONLY - A moulded mains plug that has been cut off from the cord is unsafe. Discard the mains plug at a suitable disposal facility. NEVER UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD YOU INSERT A DAMAGED OR CUT MAINS PLUG INTO A 13 AMP POWER SOCKET. Do not use the mains plug without the fuse cover in place. Replacement fuse covers can be obtained from your local retailer. Replacement fuses are 13 amps and MUST be ASTA approved to BS1362.
CAUTION! This product contains a lithium battery. There is danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with an Eveready CR 2032 or equivalent. Make sure the battery is installed with the correct polarity. Discard used batteries according to manufacturer’s instructions.
ADVARSEL! Lithiumbatteri - Eksplosjonsfare. Ved utskifting benyttes kun batteri som anbefalt av apparatfabrikanten. Brukt batteri returneres apparatleverandøren.
ADVARSEL! Lithiumbatteri - Eksplosionsfare ved fejlagtig håndtering. Udskiftning må kun ske med batteri av samme fabrikat og type. Levér det brugte batteri tilbage til leverandøren.
VAROITUS! Paristo voi räjähtää, jos se on virheellisesti asennettu. Vaihda paristo ainoastaan laitevalmistajan suosittelemaan tyyppin. Hävitä käytetty paristo valmistajan ohjeiden mukaisesti.
VARNING! Explosionsfara vid felaktigt batteribyte. Använd samma batterityp eller en ekvivalent typ som rekommenderas av apparattillverkaren. Kassera använt batteri enligt fabrikantens instruktion.
1.The warranty registration card must be mailed within ten days after purchase date to validate this warranty.
2.DigiTech warrants this product, when used solely within the U.S., to be free from defects in materials and workmanship under normal use and service.
Warnings and Warranty
Valve FX Owner’s Manual 5
3. DigiTech liability under this warranty is limited to repairing or replacing defective materials that show evidence of defect, provided the product is returned to DigiTech WITH RETURN AUTHORIZATION, where all parts and labor will be covered up to a period of one year. A Return Authorization number may be obtained from DigiTech by telephone. The company shall not be liable for any consequential damage as a result of the product’s use in any circuit or assembly.
4. Proof-of-purchase is considered to be the burden of the consumer.
5. DigiTech reserves the right to make changes in design or make additions to or improvements upon this product without incurring any obligation to install the same on products previously manufactured.
6. The foregoing is in lieu of all other warranties, expressed or implied, and DigiTech neither assumes nor authorizes any person to assume for it any obligation or liability in connection with the sale of this product. In no event shall DigiTech or its dealers be liable for special or consequential damages or from any delay in the performance of this warranty due to causes beyond their control.
DigiTech™, S-DISC™, Whammy™ and Silencer™ are registered trademarks of DOD Electronics Corporation.
The information contained in this manual is subject to change at any time without notification. Some information contained in this manual may also be inaccurate due to undocumented changes in the product or operating system since this version of the manual was completed. The information contained in this version of the owner’s manual supersedes all previous versions.
Warnings and Warranty
|
Valve FX Owner’s Manual |
SECTION 1 - STARTUP |
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SUPPLYING POWER |
Line Conditioning - The Valve FX, like any piece of computer hard- |
6 |
ware, is sensitive to voltage drops, spikes, and surges. Interference |
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such as lightning or power “brownouts” can seriously, and in extreme |
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cases, permanently damage the circuitry inside the unit. Here are |
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some ways to avoid this type of damage: |
•Spike/Surge Suppressors - This is an inexpensive solution to all but the severest of AC line conditions. Surge protected power strips usually cost only slightly more than unprotected strips, making them a worthy investment for protection of all your valuable gear.
•AC Line Conditioners - This is the best way to go for total protection from improper line voltages, albeit the more expensive way. Line conditioners constantly monitor for excessively high or low voltages and adjust accordingly, thus delivering consistent power levels.
FRONT PANEL CONTROLS |
The front panel controls and functions of the Valve FX are as follows |
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(refer to diagram): |
1 |
2 |
3 |
4 |
5 |
6 |
FX |
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Program Number |
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0 |
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6 |
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--12 |
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-18 |
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DSP Clip |
Bypass |
INPUT |
OUTPUT |
PRESENCE |
GUITAR PREAMP / SIGNAL PROCESSOR |
CURSOR |
1)Input - Plug your instrument in here. The front panel input is a 1/4” unbalanced tip-sleeve connector. When using the front panel input, the rear panel input is automatically disengaged.
2)Headphone Output - 1/4” stereo plug for headphones (do not use a mono 1/4” plug). The headphone level is controlled by the main output level knob.
3)Main Output Level - Controls the overall output level of the Valve FX. Also controls the overall level of the headphones.
4)Presence Control - Controls the overall brightness of the output signal. Turn it up for bright, sparkling high-end response or down for a dark, mellow tone. Frequency center for this control is 10 kHz.
Section 1 - Startup
Valve FX Owner’s Manual
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5) Display Window - The display window shows all current operating |
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and programming information and is comprised of several parts: |
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the LCD display, the input level meter, the Program number indica- |
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tor, and the Bypass and DSP Clip indicator LEDs. The LCD |
display |
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7 |
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shows all Program names, Parameters and Parameter values, and |
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is the communication interface between you and the Valve FX. The |
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input level meter monitors the level of the signal before it enters the |
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analog to digital converter. In the Program number indicator win- |
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dow you will find the currently selected Program number. This |
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changes as you scroll through the available Programs. The func- |
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tions of the Input Level Meter, Bypass and DSP Clip indicator LEDs |
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are as follows: |
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• Input Level Meter - Displays the strength of the incoming signal |
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in 6 dB steps before it enters the analog to digital converter. |
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• Bypass Indicator - Indicates (when lit) that all effects have been |
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bypassed using either the Bypass button or the optional Control |
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One foot controller. To exit bypass mode, simply press the |
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Bypass button on the front panel or on the foot controller. |
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• DSP Clip - Indicates digital information overflow in the proces- |
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sor. When lit, distortion may be heard in the output signal. The |
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guideline for this indicator is let your ears be the judge. If this |
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indicator lights occasionally and no audible distortion is present, |
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it can be ignored. If distortion is audible in the output signal, the |
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EQ levels or perhaps one of the internal digital effects levels of |
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the Program must be turned down to eliminate the problem. |
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5 |
6 |
7 |
8 |
9 |
10 |
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Program Number |
Reverb |
Delay |
Chorus |
Name |
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0 |
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-6 |
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S-DISC™ |
-12 |
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Pitch |
Sample |
EQ |
Midi/Util |
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PROCESSING |
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-18 |
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DSP Clip |
Bypass |
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Mod |
1 |
Mix 2 |
More 3 |
Bypass |
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PROCESSOR |
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CURSOR |
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EFFECTS ACCESS |
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DATA |
6)Cursor Keys - The Cursor keys perform several different functions depending on your location in the menu. When the Program title is displayed, the <UP> and <DOWN> Cursor keys scroll through Programs, while the <LEFT> and <RIGHT> Cursor keys move through Parameters. The Algorithm selection screen is one screen to the right of the Program title screen. On this screen, the <UP> and <DOWN> Cursor keys select the Algorithm you want to use with the Program. On any other screen, the <UP> and <DOWN> keys increment or decrement through Parameter values.
Section 1 - Startup
8
REAR PANEL CONNECTIONS
1
Valve FX Owner’s Manual
7)Effects Access - This group of buttons allows you to jump directly to the first Parameter of Modules in the currently selected Algorithm. The buttons in this group are: <EXIT>, <CMP/DIST>, <EQ>, <REVERB>, <DLY/SMP>, <PITCH>, <MOD>, <MIX>, and <MORE>. Also included in this section and sharing buttons with the <MOD>, <MIX>, and <MORE> buttons are the Function keys (indicated by ¡, ™,and £) which act as menu selection keys in the Utility menus. The <EXIT> key is used for backing out of multi-level submenus one level at a time or returning to the title screen (depending where you currently are in the menus).
8)Global Buttons - Buttons in this group are: <STORE>, <UTILITY>, and <BYPASS>. These buttons perform global functions, including those required for storing Programs, Utility functions such as LCD contrast and footswitch setup, MIDI setups (including transmit and receive maps), and global bypass.
9)Data Wheel - Increments (clockwise) or decrements (counterclockwise) through Programs, Algorithms, or Parameter values.
10)Power Switch - Turns the unit on or off.
The Valve FX rear panel connectors and functions are as follows:
2 |
3 |
4 |
5 |
6 |
120 V
60 Hz
30 WATTS
FUSE: 200 mA 250 V SLOW BLOW
WARNING: This |
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jack is not a MIDI |
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connection. |
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Connecting a MIDI |
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device to this jack |
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may damage the |
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device. |
FOOTSWITCH |
MIDI |
MIDI |
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IN |
OUT |
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE REPLACE ONLY WITH SAME TYPE FUSE.
ATTENTION: UTILISER UN FUSIBLE DE RECHANGE DE MEME TYPE.
MANUFACTURED
IN THE USA BY
SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH |
LEFT (MONO) |
RIGHT |
INPUT |
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1)AC Line Input - This is the power cord receptacle.
2)Foot Controller - This 5-pin DIN plug is for connecting the optional DigiTech Control One foot controller. THIS IS NOT A MIDI PORT. CONNECTING A DEVICE OTHER THAN THE DIGITECH CONTROL ONE FOOT CONTROLLER TO THIS JACK MAY DAMAGE THE DEVICE. A standard MIDI-type 5-pin DIN connector was chosen for the Control One foot controller connector because cables are so readily available.
3)MIDI In - The MIDI In port allows the Valve FX to respond to incoming MIDI messages, including Program Change, Continuous Control, and System Exclusive data.
4)MIDI Out - Sends out MIDI data generated by the Valve FX to other devices. It can also pass MIDI data received by the Valve FX’s MIDI In to other devices.
Section 1 - Startup
Valve FX Owner’s Manual
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5) |
Outputs - These are the main left and right audio outputs of the |
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Valve FX. Use both outputs when possible since Programs are set |
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up to take advantage of stereo effects. When the Output mode is |
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set to mono, either output can be used. |
9 |
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6) |
Input - This is the audio input to the Valve FX. Plug your instru- |
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ment in here. This input is disengaged when the front panel input |
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is used. |
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MIDI AND AUDIO SETUPS |
The following diagrams show possible MIDI and audio routing setups |
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for the Valve FX. |
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Section 1 - Startup
10 |
Valve FX Owner’s Manual |
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Section 1 - Startup
Valve FX Owner’s Manual
SECTION 2 - BASIC OPERATIONS |
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MAIN OPERATING MODE |
After the Valve FX powers-up, the current Program title11 |
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screen is dis- |
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played. This is the main operating mode for the Valve FX from which |
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any of the operating Parameters can be easily reached and modified. |
PARAMETER ARCHITECTURE |
The Program’s Parameter architecture in the Valve FX has been |
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designed to be a linear series of items rather than a multiple-level |
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menu (see diagram). In other words, instead of including several sub- |
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menus, or levels, under a single Parameter heading, all Parameters |
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and functions are included in a single level, and are accessed using |
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the <LEFT> and <RIGHT> Cursor keys. This makes access to specif- |
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ic Parameters of a Program quick and easy, and provides a much |
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clearer picture of exactly where you are in the menu. |
The diagram above shows the linear arrangement of Parameters in the Valve FX. Notice that if you press the <RIGHT> Cursor key from the last item in the list (the Parameter item to the left of the title screen), the display jumps, or “wraps around to” the first item in the menu (in this case, the title screen).
Likewise, if the <LEFT> Cursor key is pressed from the title screen, the display will wrap to the last Parameter in the list. This wraparound menu feature is provided so that Parameters that appear near the end of a long list of items can be just as easily reached as items near the beginning of the menu. If you press and hold either the <LEFT> Cursor key or the <RIGHT> Cursor key, the Valve FX will begin scrolling at high speed through the available Parameters in the Parameter menu.
Section 2 - Basic Operations
12 |
Valve FX Owner’s Manual |
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ACCESSING FACTORY PROGRAMS There are four methods for recalling Programs. The first method uses |
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the <UP> and <DOWN> Cursor keys. The procedure is as follows: |
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• From the title screen, press the <UP> Cursor key. Note that the |
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Program shown in the display changes and the number shown |
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in the LED display increments by one each time the <UP> |
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Cursor key is pressed. Pressing the <DOWN> Cursor key caus- |
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es the reverse to occur: the Valve FX decrements through the |
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Programs in memory. |
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• To scroll at high speed through the Programs in memory, press |
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and hold either the <UP> or <DOWN> Cursor key. |
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The second method for changing Programs is the same as the first, |
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except that instead of using the Cursor <UP> and <DOWN> keys, |
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turn the Data wheel. Turning the Data wheel clockwise from the title |
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screen increments through Programs, while turning it counter-clock- |
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wise decrements through Programs. |
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The third method uses the optional Control One foot controller. |
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NOTE: When you send a Program change to the Valve FX using |
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the optional Control One foot controller, any unstored modifica- |
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tions you have made will be lost. |
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The procedure is as follows: |
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• Press the Select switch (in the upper right corner of the Control |
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One foot controller) once. The foot controller display reads: |
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PROGRAM NUMBER |
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• Using the numbered foot switches, enter the number of the |
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Program you want to recall. If the Program number is only two |
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digits long, press the Select switch again to accept the selected |
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Program number. |
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The fourth method is through the use of MIDI. This method will be |
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covered later in the Utilities section of this manual, pg. 44. |
Section 2 - Basic Operations
Valve FX Owner’s Manual |
13 |
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SECTION 3 - PROGRAMMING |
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USING THE FUNCTION KEYS The Valve FX has three Function keys that perform several functions in different menus. They are located in the bottom row of the Effects Access keys and they share buttons with the <MOD ¡>, <MIX ™>, and <MORE £> options. Each Function key is numbered and performs several functions in the Utility mode (depending on the selected menu screen). These keys are also used in the Program naming process (see Storing / Naming Programs, pg. 17). For more on the Utility and MIDI Menus, see pg. 44.
¡Indicates that Function key 1 performs the function shown in the display.
™Indicates that Function key 2 performs the function shown in the display.
£Indicates that Function key 3 performs the function shown in the display.
MORE SPECIAL CHARACTERS There are several special characters that the Valve FX uses to tell you at a glance exactly what it is doing. All special characters in the Valve FX (except CC) are in inverted type, that is, reversed out of a black background, and they will usually appear in the upper righthand corner of the display.
ßIndicates that the Cabinet Emulator is currently active.
Ç Indicates that a MIDI continuous controller is linked to the Parameter.
å Characters from this group are used for distinguishing between redundant Modules in a single Algorithm. This special character will immediately follow the Module name rather than appear in the corner of the display.
Section 3 - Programming
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Valve FX Owner’s Manual |
THE EFFECTS ACCESS KEYS |
The Effects s are used to jump to specific places in menus. For |
14 |
example, if a Program contains several delays and you want to |
change the delay time on only one of them, you could press the |
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<DLY/SMP> Effects Access button from Program’s title screen and |
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you would be jumped to the first Parameter of the first delay in the |
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Algorithm. Press the button again, and you are taken to the first |
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Parameter of the next delay in the Algorithm, and so on. |
ABOUT THE I /O MODULE |
Each Program in the Valve FX is equipped with Compression, |
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Distortion, Clean / Distortion Level, Noise Gate, DSP Master Level, |
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Parametric EQ, and Cabinet Emulator controls. These items are per- |
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manent residents of every Algorithm in the unit. |
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This group of items is called the Input / Output Module (or I/O Module) |
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because they are always a part of both the input and output audio |
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paths of the Valve FX. The following diagram shows how the I/O |
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Module affects the signal as it flows through the unit. |
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Bypass Switch |
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I / O |
Algorithm |
From Inst. |
Module |
(Digital Section) |
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To Outputs |
Compression (A) |
Reverb |
Master Mix (D) |
Distortion (A) |
Delay / Sampler |
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Clean / Dist Level (A) |
Modulation |
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Noise Gate (D) |
Pitch Shift |
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DSP Master Level (D) |
Mixers |
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Parametric EQ (D) |
Etc... |
A = Analog |
Cabinet Emulator (D) |
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D = Digital |
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The Valve FX’s Compression, Distortion, and Clean / Distortion Level are analog for warmth and power. The Noise Gate, DSP Master Level, Parametric EQ, and Cabinet Emulator are all accomplished in the digital realm for absolute flexibility and precision.
MODIFYING FACTORY PROGRAMS After you’ve had time to familiarize yourself with the Valve FX, you may find that there are several factory Programs that are very close to what you’re looking for, but that need a few small tweaks to get them perfect. The effects used in each Program are arranged as Algorithms and are explained in more detail on page 15.
Section 3 - Programming
Valve FX Owner’s Manual 15
Program 105 (Infusion) has a Whammy™, a chorus, and a 200 millisecond stereo delay. Let’s suppose that in order to work in your application, it needs to have a 425 millisecond delay. Using this Program as an example for Program modification, the procedure for changing the delay time is as follows:
•From the Program title screen, scroll to Program 105 using the <UP> and <DOWN> Cursor keys or the Data wheel. The display reads:
Infusion
Wah Wham Cho Dly
•Using the <RIGHT> or <LEFT> Cursor keys, scroll to the DELAY TIME Parameter. The display reads:
Delay Time Tap 1 (0.200)
NOTE: By pressing the <DLY/SMP> key you can skip directly to the first Parameter of the Delay effect in the Algorithm and continue scrolling with the <RIGHT> Cursor key to the desired Parameter.
The cursor appears under the 2 and the entire number is enclosed in parenthesis indicating that this is the stored value for that Parameter.
IMPORTANT:Delay Time Parameters in the Valve FX are editable in two different ranges, giving the most flexibility and accuracy in the least amount of scrolling time. In this example Parameter, the cursor appears under the 2 in 0.200. The 2 resides in the hundred milliseconds position. In other words, if you press the <UP> Cursor key when the cursor is in this position, you will increase the delay time by 100 milliseconds. If you press the <RIGHT> Cursor key, the cursor will move to the third position to the right of the decimal point (0.200), or milliseconds position. Each press of the <UP> Cursor key from this position increases the delay time in single millisecond steps. Using this method of ranging allows you to scroll rapidly to large-value delay times without having to wait for the unit to scroll to it in single millisecond steps.
•Using the <UP> Cursor key, scroll upward until the hundreds position shows a 4. The display reads:
Delay Time
0.400
Section 3 - Programming
16
BASIC PROGRAM CREATION
SELECTING AN ALGORITHM
Valve FX Owner’s Manual
•Press the <RIGHT> Cursor key once. The cursor moves to the milliseconds position.
•Using the <UP> Cursor key, scroll until the last two digits of the delay time read 25. The delay time is now set at .425 seconds.
If you change Programs at this point, either through MIDI or via the front panel, any modifications that you have made to the Program will be lost. In order for the Valve FX to remember the changes that you have made, you must store the Program in memory. The procedure for storing Programs is covered in more detail in Section 3, pg. 17.
There are several requirements for creating a Program on the Valve FX. The first is that an Algorithm needs to be assigned to the Program; second, Parameters must be modified to your liking, and third, the Program must be stored in memory in order to be recalled for later use.
The Algorithm you choose for a Program determines the basic function of the Program. It is therefore necessary to choose an Algorithm that contains all the Modules you want to use in an appropriate configuration. For a complete list of the available Algorithms in the Valve FX, see Section 6 on page 69. The Algorithm selection screen for all Programs in the Valve FX is one screen to the right of the title screen.
The Algorithm selection screen works in conjunction with the LED display to show the Algorithm number When in the Algorithm selection screen, the LCD display looks something like this:
Wham 2TDly Revrb
Comp Dist MVol
Press the <UP> or <DOWN> Cursor keys from the Algorithm selection screen, the LED display to the right of the screen shows an A followed by the Algorithm’s number. To select an Algorithm for a Program, the procedure is as follows:
•From the title screen, press the <RIGHT> Cursor key once. This is the Algorithm selection screen. The name of the currently selected Algorithm is shown on the top line of the display, while the bottom line shows the effects in the Algorithm.
NOTE: When there are more effects in the Algorithm than will fit on a single line of the display, an arrow will appear in the first and/or last character of the bottom line of the display. These arrows indicate that there is more information about the effects that could not be displayed on a single screen. To see the remaining information, simply press the <RIGHT> or <LEFT> Cursor key (depending on the arrow direction indicated in the display).
Section 3 - Programming
Valve FX Owner’s Manual 17
• Use the <UP> and <DOWN> Cursor keys to select the Algorithm you want to use with the Program. The LED display now shows the Algorithm number as you scroll up or down.
• Use the <RIGHT> and <LEFT> Cursor keys to begin modifying the Parameters of the currently selected Algorithm to suit your purpose.
NOTE: When you change the currently selected Algorithm, the default Parameters selected for the new Algorithm are taken from the first Program in memory that uses it.
Once you have selected the Algorithm you want to use and modified its Parameters, an asterisk appears in the upper right corner of the title screen. This asterisk indicates that the Program has been modified and any changes you have made will be lost if not stored in the Valve FX’s memory.
STORING / NAMING PROGRAMS In order for modified Programs to be available for later recall, you must store them in memory. This is accomplished using the <STORE> key. The Valve FX also allows you to give your Programs custom names up to 15 characters in length. The naming procedure uses the <UP> and <DOWN> Cursor keys, the Function keys, and/or the data wheel to make Program naming extremely quick and easy. The <MOD ¡> key changes the character from upper to lower case and back. The <MIX ™> key places a space into the Program name, and the <MORE £> key instantly jumps you to the numbers section of the character set. The complete procedure for storing and naming a Program is as follows:
•After you have made all the necessary modifications to the Algorithm, press the <STORE> button once. The Valve FX is now in Name mode. The display shows:
[PROGRAM NAME] ¡CAPS ™SPC £NUM
The blocked numbers preceding each option on the bottom line indicate the Function key that will perform the function shown.
•Using the <UP>/<DOWN> Cursor keys or the Data wheel, scroll to the character you want to use, or press one of the Function keys. When you have selected the character you want, press the <RIGHT> Cursor key. Note that the cursor moves to the next character. Repeat this procedure until the Program name is satisfactory.
Unique to the Valve FX naming process are several special naming
Section 3 - Programming
Valve FX Owner’s Manual
18 |
functions. The <REV> and <PITCH> keys allow you bump an entire |
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name or section of a name either left or right in one-space increments. |
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The procedure is as follows: |
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• In Name mode, use the <RIGHT> and <LEFT> Cursor keys to |
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place the cursor underneath the character to be moved. |
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• Press the <REV> or <PITCH> keys to move the characters |
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either left or right. |
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The <CMP/DIST> key copies the character under which the cursor |
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sits into memory. This allows you to place a copy of that character |
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(using the <DLY/SMP> key) anywhere else in the name that you want. |
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The procedure is as follows: |
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• In Name mode, use the <RIGHT> / <LEFT> Cursor keys to |
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place the cursor under the character to be copied. |
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• Press the <CMP/DIST> key. The selected character is copied |
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into memory. |
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• Move the cursor to the location into which you want to place a |
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copy of the character and press the <DLY/SMP> key. A copy of |
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the character appears in the location you selected. |
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• When the Program name appears as you want it, press the |
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<STORE> key. The display reads: |
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Store To Prg ## |
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[PROGRAM NAME] |
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This screen allows you to select the location in which you want to |
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store the new Program. |
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• Using the <UP>/<DOWN> Cursor keys, scroll to the Program |
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number location in which you want to store the new Program. |
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• To store the Program in the selected location, press the |
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<STORE> key again. The display briefly reads: |
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***Storing*** |
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after which you will be returned to the previous mode. To abort |
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the command, press <EXIT>. |
Section 3 - Programming
Valve FX Owner’s Manual 19
The Store function can also be used to copy Programs from one memory location to another. If no changes have been made to the selected Program and the <STORE> key is pressed, the Valve FX is placed in Name mode; press the <STORE> key a second time and the display reads:
Copy To Prg ## [PROGRAM NAME]
Select the memory location in which you want to place a copy of the selected Program using the <UP>/<DOWN> Cursor keys, and press <STORE> again. The display briefly reads:
***Copying***
after which you will be returned to the previous mode. To abort the command and return to the naming screen, press <EXIT>.
Section 3 - Programming
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Valve FX Owner’s Manual |
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SECTION 4 - EFFECTS AND PARAMETERS |
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ABOUT THE EFFECTS LIBRARY |
The Effects Library consists of all the effects Modules you can find in |
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the Valve FX. Broken down into individual categories, specific |
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Modules and their abbreviated library names are as follows: |
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Analog Effects |
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Module Name |
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Module Abbrv. |
Description |
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Compressor |
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Compr |
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Analog compressor tailored for instruments |
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Distortion |
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Distrt |
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Analog distortion (3 tube or 3 solid-state types) |
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The analog section of the Valve FX includes the compressor and the |
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distortion section. These two items are always available in all |
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Programs. |
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COMPRESSOR |
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The Valve FX’s compressor is a high-quality, low-noise circuit special- |
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ly designed for guitars. Compression can be used to increase sustain |
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and to tighten up guitars, and is particularly useful on clean sounds. |
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Parameters of the Valve FX compressor are as follows: |
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Comp On / Bypass .......Turns the Module on or off. When Modules |
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are bypassed their Parameters disappear |
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from the Parameter menu. To see the |
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Parameters, you must turn the Module on. |
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Comp Amount ...............Controls the amount of compression applied |
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to the signal. Higher settings yield a tighter, |
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more focused sound, while lower settings |
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allow better dynamics. Ranges from 0 to 31. |
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Comp Level...................Sets the output level of the compressor before |
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feeding to the distortion. Higher settings send |
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more signal level into the distortion, yielding |
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extra gain and drive. Varies from 1 to 7. |
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DISTORTION |
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The distortion section of the Valve FX provides six distinctly different |
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types of distortion. There are three tube-driven (12AX7) voicings and |
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three are solid-state distortion sounds ranging from a light overdrive |
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tone to a screaming grunge. The Overdrive and Heavy Sustain set- |
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tings offer classic distortion sounds while the Grunge setting provides |
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extremely high-gain distortion, without the mush and tonal sacrifices |
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found in other manufacturers’ products. The Tube distortions give you |
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the added warmth, touch, power, and grind that only a tube can pro- |
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duce for a lethal combination of tube power with the programmability |
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of digital control. |
Section 4 - Effects and Parameters
Valve FX Owner’s Manual 21
The Distortion Parameters are as follows:
Dist On / Bypass ...........Turns the Module on or off. When Modules are turned off, their Parameters disappear from the Parameter menu. To see the Parameters, you must turn the Module on.
Distortion Type ..............Selects the type of distortion to be used in the Program. Options are: SATURATED TUBE - Hot, loud, and thoroughly modern grind of the best tube amps and guitar rigs. Capable of generating extremely high gain, but remains quiet enough for use in any studio. DISTORTED TUBE - Great for heavy rhythms or gritty leads. CLEAN TUBE - For sparkling, breathy clean sounds. OVERDRIVE - Solid-state overdrive with extra punch. HEAVY SUSTAIN - Smooth, warm distortion sound with lots of sustain. GRUNGE - Tons of solid-state gain. Tight and highly focused for powerful rhythms and leads.
Distortion Gain ..............Controls the amount of distortion produced by the Valve FX. High settings produce greater gain and drive for effortless soloing, while low settings offer better control of playing nuances and touch. Ranges from 0 to 11.
Dist/Clean Level ............This Parameter allows two separate levels to be set. If the Distortion is turned on, the Distortion level can be adjusted. If the Distortion is turned off, the Clean level can be adjusted. Both level settings are saved when the Program is stored. Settings include MUTE or ranging from -60dB to +12dB.
Section 4 - Effects and Parameters
22Equalizers
Valve FX Owner’s Manual
Module Name |
Module Abbrv. |
Description |
10 Band GEQ |
GEQ10 |
Full bandwidth 10-band graphic equalizer |
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4Bnd ParamtrcEQ |
PEQ4 |
4-band parametric equalizer w/adjustable Q |
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Cabinet Emulator |
CabEm |
Full-bore stack sound direct-to-console |
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4-BAND PEQ / 10-BAND GEQ The equalizer Modules provided in the Valve FX offer superb noise performance, and allow accurate tonal shaping of many different types of sound sources. There is a standard 4-band parametric equalizer with adjustable Q available in all Algorithms. The Valve FX also features a 10-band graphic equalizer in select Algorithms. All equalizer Modules offer silent, hyper-accurate (double-precision) for tonal shaping.
Adjustable Q equalizers offer the ability to control the bandwidth of the boost/cut ranges. High Q settings yield extremely narrow bandwidth, where boost and cut have minimal effect on adjacent frequencies of the program material. Low Q settings affect a wider number of frequencies when the selected band is boosted or cut.
DigiTech Audio Precision STD AMPL (dBr) vs FREQ (Hz)
20.000
15.000
10.000
5.0000
0.0
-5.000
-10.00
-15.00
-20.00
100
2 |
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4 |
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Q |
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= |
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Q |
8 |
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Q |
1k |
10k |
20k |
With a Q setting of 2, you can see that a large number of frequencies are affected by boosting the center frequency. Now take a look at the middle and lower curves in the diagram, and notice the much narrower bandwidth of the curves with a Q setting of 4 and 8.
Section 4 - Effects and Parameters
Valve FX Owner’s Manual
CABINET EMULATOR |
The Valve FX’s programmable Cabinet Emulator circuitry allows you to |
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use it in both recording and live situations without lugging heavy |
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amps and/or cabinets around. Just connect the Valve FX outputs to a |
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miking hassles, |
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mixing console and kick in the Cabinet Emulator. No23 |
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no heavy equipment; just a full-on miked cabinet sound. Programs |
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can be stored with different Cabinet Emulator settings so you can cus- |
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tomize your banks or setlists for whatever sound types you need. |
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Parameters are as follows: |
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Effect On / Bypass ........Turns the Module on or off. When Modules |
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are turned off, their Parameters disappear |
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from the Parameter menu. To see the |
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Parameters, you must turn the Module on. |
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Cabinet Type.................Selects the tonal characteristics of the simulat- |
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ed cabinet. There are 10 different cabinet |
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types; 3 warm cabinets, 3 medium cabinets, 3 |
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bright cabinets, and 1 full bandwidth cabinet |
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for maximum frequency response. The full |
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bandwidth cabinet is useful when the Cabinet |
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Emulator is set globally on (in the Utility menu) |
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and a full bandwidth sound is still desired. |
Section 4 - Effects and Parameters
24Reverbs
Valve FX Owner’s Manual
Module Name |
Module Abbrv. |
Description |
BigVerb |
Big |
Studio-quality reverb. |
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MFX Reverb |
MVerb |
Reverb used in multi-effects Algorithms. |
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Gated Reverb |
GtRvb |
Professional gated reverb |
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BIGVERB / MFX REVERB |
Bigverb is the flagship reverb Module of the Valve FX. It contains 14 |
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Parameters, giving exceptional soundfield and tonal shaping control |
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over reverberation. Bigverb is capable of producing reverberation of |
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virtually any size, shape, depth, timbre or soundfield location. |
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MFX Reverb is a slightly trimmed version of the Bigverb, offering much |
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of the same flexibility and controls as Bigverb, but in less memory |
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space. MFX Reverb allows you to achieve high-quality reverb in con- |
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junction with other effects. |
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Before covering all the reverb Parameters and their definitions in |
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detail, however, let’s discuss the benefits and theory behind reverber- |
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ation Algorithms. |
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Ambience, or reverberation, is produced when sound energy is |
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reflected off room surfaces and objects. Using reverberation in |
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recorded program material gives the listener a sense that the material |
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is being performed in an actual room or hall. It is this similarity to |
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actual acoustic spaces that makes reverberation a useful tool in |
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recorded music. |
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The length of the reverberation, or reverb time, can be perceived by |
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the listener and is useful during the course of continuous program |
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material (reverb time is defined as “the length of time the reverbera- |
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tion takes to decay to inaudibility”, or -60 dB). Studies have shown |
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that the character of reverberation depends heavily upon the initial |
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buildup and decay of the reverberation reflections. |
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The Valve FX uses early reflections to better emulate the natural |
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sound of a hall. Early reflections are short clusters of direct reflections |
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from the closest room walls. In an average size hall, these direct |
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reflections usually occur within the first 30 to 100 milliseconds, |
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depending on the size of the room and the placement of the sound |
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source within the room. Adding these early reflections to the rever- |
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beration increases the perceived reverberation time and the apparent |
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size of the reverberant space, but adding more than small amounts |
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tends to make the reverb sound unnatural. |
Section 4 - Effects and Parameters