Abstrakt Instruments Avalon

abstrakt-instruments Abstrakt Instruments Avalon Avalon Reference Manual 1.06c

REFERENCE MANUAL

v1.06c

September 2016

Information contained in this manual is subject to change without notice. No part of this manual may be reproduced or transmitted in any form, or by any purpose other than the purchaser's personal use, without the express written consent of Abstrakt Instruments LLC.

All other product and company names used in this manual are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.

www.abstraktinstruments.com

2 AVALON - Reference Manual

Read all instructions below and follow them.

IMPORTANT SAFETY AND MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS

1. Do not use this product near water - for example, in the rain, near a bathtub or sink, in a wet basement, or near a swimming pool or the like.

2. This product, in combination with an amplifier and headphones or speakers, may be capable of producing sound levels that could cause permanent hearing loss. Do not operate for a long period of time at a high volume level or at a level that is uncomfortable.

3. Never use aggressive cleaners on the casing. Remove dust, dirt, and fingerprints with a soft, dry, non-abrasive cloth. If the unit is persistently dirty use a slightly damp cloth using only water. Do not use a liquid cleaner, alcohol, acetone, turpentine, or any other organic solutions.

4. Install in accordance with the instructions. Make sure you place the unit on a stable surface before use.

5. The product should be located away from heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, or other products that produce

heat.

6. Connect the unit to an easily accessible electrical outlet that is close to it.

7. The product should be connected to a power supply only of the type described in the operating instructions or as

marked on the product.

8. Unplug the unit during lightning storms or when it is not used for long periods of time.

9. Care should be taken so that objects do not fall and liquids are not spilled into the enclosure through openings.

10. When transporting the unit, use accessories recommended by the manufacturer or the original box and padding.

11. Abstrakt Instruments is not responsible for any damage caused by improper operation of the instrument.

WARNING

To reduce the risk of fire, electrical shock or product damage:

 Do not expose the unit to rain, moisture, dripping or splashing. Also avoid placing objects filled with liquid, such as vases, on the unit.

 Do not expose the unit to direct sunlight, nor use it in ambient temperatures exceeding 30°C as this can lead to malfunction.

 Do not open the casing. There are no user repairable or adjustable parts inside. Leave service and repairs to trained service technicians only.

EXTERNAL POWER SUPPLY SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

 The adapter is not safety grounded and may only be used indoors.

 To ensure good ventilation for the adapter, do not place it in tight spaces. To prevent risk of electric shock and fire because of over-heating,

ensure that curtains and other objects do not prevent adapter ventilation.

 Do not expose the power adapter to direct sunlight, nor use it in ambient temperatures exceeding 40°C.

 In the EU, only use CE approved power cords.

3 AVALON - Reference Manual

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

 Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.  Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.  Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is

connected.

 Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

This Class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Regulation.

Cet appareil numérique de la classe B respecte toutes les exigences du Règlement sur le matériel brouilleur du Canada.

This product has been tested to comply with the Low Voltage Directive 2006/95/EC and the Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive 2004/108/EC. The product meets the requirements of RoHS 2 Directive 2011/65/EU.

This symbol indicates that your product must be disposed of properly according to local laws and regulations.

European Union regulation compliance statement

4 AVALON - Reference Manual

CONTENTS

1 INTRODUCTION............................................................................. 7

1.1 ABOUT THIS MANUAL ....................................................................... 7

1.2 ABBREVIATION & CONVENTIONS ................................................ 7

1.2.1 BUTTON NAMES........................................................................ 7

1.2.2 BUTTON COMBINATIONS (SIMULTANEOUS) ............... 7

1.2.3 STEP BUTTONS .......................................................................... 7

1.2.4 CHROMATIC KEYBOARD ....................................................... 7

1.2.5 PATTERN BUTTONS ................................................................. 7

1.2.6 BUTTONS 1-4 ............................................................................. 7

1.2.7 NOTE, TIE, & REST BUTTONS ............................................... 8

1.2.8 NEXT & BACK BUTTONS......................................................... 8

1.2.9 ROTARY KNOBS......................................................................... 8

1.2.10 LED INDICATORS..................................................................... 8

2 OVERVIEW ..................................................................................... 9

2.1 FRONT PANEL......................................................................................... 9

2.2 REAR PANEL .........................................................................................10

2.3 INITIAL CONNECTIONS.................................................................... 10

3 ANALOG SYNTH ..........................................................................11

3.1 ZERO THE SYNTHESIZER .................................................................11

3.2 OSCILLATOR.........................................................................................11

3.3 FILTER .....................................................................................................11

3.4 FILTER ENVELOPE.............................................................................. 12

3.5 AMPLIFIER............................................................................................. 12

3.6 MODULATION ENVELOPE.............................................................. 12

3.7 OUTPUT................................................................................................. 12

4 SEQUENCER OVERVIEW ..............................................................13

4.1 PRIMARY MODES...............................................................................13

4.1.1 CHANGING PRIMARY MODES ............................................13

4.1.1.1 BETWEEN PATTERN MODES ....................................13

4.1.1.2 BETWEEN TRACK MODES.......................................... 13

4.1.1.3 BETWEEN PATTERN & TRACK MODES................. 13

4.2 WHAT IS A PATTERN? ......................................................................13

4.2.1 THE PATTERN STEP................................................................. 13

4.2.2 PATTERN STEP ATTRIBUTES............................................... 13

4.2.3 PATTERN MODIFIERS............................................................. 13

4.2.4 PATTERN OVERALL STRUCTURE....................................... 14

4.3 PATTERN SELECTION ........................................................................14

4.3.1 PATTERN BANK.........................................................................14

4.3.2 PATTERN GROUP .....................................................................14

4.3.3 PATTERN NUMBER.................................................................. 14

4.4 PATTERN PLAYBACK.........................................................................14

4.4.1 TEMPO ..........................................................................................14

4.5 WHAT IS A TRACK?............................................................................ 15

4.6 TRACK SELECTION............................................................................. 15

4.7 TRACK PLAYBACK ..............................................................................15

5 PATTERN WRITE MO....................................................................16

5.1 OVERVIEW..............................................................................................16

5.2 NORMAL MODE ...................................................................................16

5.2.1 PATTERN CLEAR, COPY & PASTE ......................................16

5.2.2 PATTERN CHAINING ............................................................... 17

5.2.3 PATTERN MODIFIERS............................................................. 17

6) Pattern Direction....................................................................... 17

5.2.3.1 PATTERN LENGTH ........................................................17

5.2.3.2 LAST STEP ........................................................................17

5.2.3.3 COPY PATTERN SECTION ...........................................17

5.2.3.4 TIME SIGNATURE ..........................................................17

5.2.3.5 SHUFFLE ...........................................................................18

5.2.3.6 PATTERN DIRECTION ..................................................18

5.2.3.7 PATTERN ROTATE......................................................... 18

5.2.3.8 PATTERN RANDOMIZE ..............................................18

5.2.3.9 PATTERN TRANSPOSE ................................................ 18

5.2.3.10 FILTER B MODE ..........................................................18

5.2.3.11 SCREENSAVER MODE (LOW NOISE) .................. 18

5.2.4 PITCH ATTRIBUTES .................................................................19

5.2.4.1 PITCH................................................................................. 19

5.2.4.2 ACCENT & SLIDE............................................................ 19

5.2.4.3 TRANSPOSE..................................................................... 19

5.2.4.4 MODULATION ENVELOPE TRIGGERS ................. 19

5.2.4.5 SLIDE TIME....................................................................... 19

5.2.4.6 FILTER CV OFFSET ........................................................ 19

5.2.4.7 GATE LENGTH ................................................................ 20

5.2.5 TIME ATTRIBUTES .................................................................. 20

5.2.5.1 NOTE EVENTS................................................................ 20

5.2.5.2 NOTE LENGTH, TIES & RESTS................................. 20

5.2.5.3 ACTIVE STEPS................................................................ 20

5.3 PITCH & TIME STEP ENTRY MODES ............................................ 21

5.3.1 PITCH STEP ENTRY................................................................. 21

5.3.2 TIME STEP ENTRY ...................................................................21

5.4 RECORD MODE ...................................................................................21

5.4.1 ENTER & EXIT RECORD MODE............................................. 21

5.4.2 RECORDING REALTIME PERFORMANCE........................ 21

5.4.2.2 RECORD TRANSPOSE................................................. 22

5.4.2.3 RECORD ACCENT & SLIDE........................................ 22

5.4.2.4 RECORD MOD ENV...................................................... 22

5.4.2.5 RECORD SLIDE TIME................................................... 22

5.4.2.6 RECORD FILTER CV OFFSET .................................... 22

5.5.1 REALTIME ACCENT & SLIDE ............................................... 22

5.5.2 REALTIME MOD ENV ..............................................................22

5.6 ARPEGGIATOR .....................................................................................23

5.6.1 ARP ON/OFF............................................................................... 23

5.6.2 NOTE ENTRY ..............................................................................23

5.6.2.1 VIA AVALON KEYBOARD........................................... 23

5.6.2.2 VIA EXTERNAL MIDI .................................................... 23

5.6.3 ARP MODE ..................................................................................23

5.6.4 REALTIME ACCENT, SLIDE, & MOD ENV ........................23

5.6.5 ARP RECORD.............................................................................. 23

5.7 PATTERN SYSEX DUMP.................................................................... 23

5.7.1 TRANSMIT................................................................................... 23

5.7.2 RECEIVE........................................................................................ 23

6 PATTERN PLAY MODE ................................................................ 24

6.1 OVERVIEW ............................................................................................. 24

6.2 NORMAL MODE................................................................................... 24

6.2.1 PATTERN SELECTION............................................................. 24

6.2.2 PATTERN CHAINING............................................................... 24

6.3 REALTIME MODE................................................................................. 24

6.3.1 TRANSPOSE............................................................................... 24

6.3.2 REALTIME ACCENT & SLIDE ............................................... 25

6.3.3 REALTIME MOD ENV ..............................................................25

6.3.4 REALTIME MUTE ..................................................................... 25

7 TRACK WRITE MODE................................................................... 26

7.1 OVERVIEW ............................................................................................. 26

7.2 SELECTING TRACKS ........................................................................... 26

7.3 NORMAL MODE................................................................................... 26

7.3.1 TRACK STEP INDICATORS.................................................... 26

7.3.2 LAST TRACK STEP.................................................................... 26

7.3.3 TRACK CLEAR, COPY & PASTE ........................................... 27

7.3.4 WRITING A TRACK ................................................................... 27

7.3.4.1 SELECT PATTERN .......................................................... 27

7.3.4.2 TRANSPOSE..................................................................... 27

7.3.4.3 ADD REPEATS................................................................. 27

7.3.4.4 PREVIOUS & NEXT STEP............................................. 27

7.3.4.5 LAST STEP ........................................................................ 28

7.4 REALTIME MODE................................................................................. 28

7.4.1 REALTIME ACCENT & SLIDE ............................................... 28

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7.4.2 REALTIME MOD ENV ..............................................................28

7.4.3 REALTIME MUTE...................................................................... 29

7.5 TRACK SYSEX DUMP .........................................................................29

7.5.1 TRANSMIT ................................................................................... 29

7.5.2 RECEIVE........................................................................................ 29

8 TRACK PLAY MODE......................................................................30

8.1 OVERVIEW..............................................................................................30

8.2 SELECTING TRACKS ...........................................................................30

8.3 NORMAL MODE ...................................................................................30

8.3.1 TRACK STEP INDICATORS ....................................................30

8.4 REALTIME MODE................................................................................. 30

8.4.1 REALTIME ACCENT & SLIDE ............................................... 30

8.4.2 REALTIME MOD ENV ..............................................................30

8.4.3 REALTIME MUTE...................................................................... 30

9 MIDI PLAY....................................................................................31

9.1 STOP THE SEQUENCER ..................................................................... 31

9.2 SET MIDI INPUT CHANNEL.............................................................. 31

9.3 DISABLE MIDI SYNC........................................................................... 31

9.4 MIDI RECEIVE PARAMETERS..........................................................31

9.4.1 NOTE ON / ACCENT/ SLIDE .................................................. 31

9.4.2 FILTER CUTOFF .........................................................................31

9.4.3 MODULATION ENVELOPE TRIGGER ................................31

10 CONFIGURATION MODE ...........................................................32

10.1 ENTER CONFIG MODE .....................................................................32

10.1.1 SYNC INPUT ............................................................................. 32

10.1.1.1 MIDI SYNC IN BEHAVIOR ........................................32

10.1.2 SYNC OUTPUT .......................................................................32

10.1.3 MIDI INPUT CHANNEL......................................................... 32

10.1. 4 MIDI OUTPUT CHANNEL ...................................................32

10.1.5 USB MIDI................................................................................... 32

10.1.6 LED DIMMING........................................................................ 32

10.1.7 DUMP MACHINE STATE .................................................... 32

10.1.8 DUMP PATTERN BANK ...................................................... 33

10.1.8.1 PATTERN BANK SEND .............................................. 33

10.1.8.2 PATTERN BANK RECEIVE ......................................... 33

10.1.9 MIDI PROGRAM CHANGE .................................................33

10.1.10 OS VERSION .......................................................................... 33

10.2 EXIT CONFIG MODE .........................................................................33

11 INPUTS & OUTPUTS.................................................................. 34

11.1 AUDIO I/O........................................................................................... 34

11.2 CV & GATE I/O................................................................................... 34

12 SPECIFICATIONS....................................................................... 35

13 TB-303 SETTINGS...................................................................... 36

13.1 ANALOG VOICE................................................................................. 36

13.1.1 OSCILLATORS ......................................................................... 36

13.1.2 FILTER ........................................................................................ 36

13.1.3 FILTER ENVELOPE.................................................................. 36

13.1.4 VCA ENVELOPE ......................................................................36

13.1.5 MODULATION ENVELOPE................................................. 36

13.2 SEQUENCER........................................................................................ 36

13.2.1 PATTERN WRITE MODES.................................................... 36

13.2.2 PATTERN MODIFIERS.......................................................... 36

13.2.3 PATTERN STEP ATTRIBUTES ............................................36

14 BLOCK DIAGRAM...................................................................... 36

APPENDIX A - CALIBRATION.......................................................... 38

APPENDIX B - FILTER & VCA BEHAVIOR ....................................... 40

APPENDIX C - AVALON VS. TB-303 SEQUENCER ......................... 44

APPENDIX D - MIDI IMPLEMENTATION........................................ 45

6 AVALON - Reference Manual

1 INTRODUCTION

Thank You for purchasing the Avalon Bassline Synthesizer! The Avalon is a powerful synth and sequencer designed to be equally at home in the studio or in live performance.

Be sure to visit www.abstraktinstruments.com for the latest firmware and tutorials.

1.1 ABOUT THIS MANUAL

This manual was written to help familiarize you with Avalon synthesizer. There are a lot of features packed into the Avalon, we recommend reading this manual in its entirety.

1.2 ABBREVIATION & CONVENTIONS

Additional info on a given topic.

Tips to simplify specific topics.

1.2.1 BUTTON NAMES

Button names are illustrated in bold uppercase. For example, the button labeled "home" is written HOME. Buttons that are specific to "pitch", "time" or secondary "functions" are typed in color-coded brackets, such as [PITCH], [TIME] and [FUNCTION].

1.2.2 BUTTON COMBINATIONS (SIMULTANEOUS)

Whenever multiple buttons are to be pressed simultaneously the "+" sign is used. The first button name is the first button pressed. The second button name after the "+" sign is the second button pressed (while holding the first button). In some cases there are additional button presses.

For example, to clear a pattern the "function" and "clear" buttons are pressed in order as shown below. This would be written as

[FUNCTION] + [CLEAR], and illustrated as shown below:

In some instances button combinations are indicated using the "finger point" graphic. In these instances the order of button presses is indicated by the number of each hand. For example, SECTION +

BUTTON 2 is equivalent to the graphic below.

1.2.3 STEP BUTTONS

The (16) step button indicators are used for entering various step attributes. They are also used for certain secondary functions such as setting MIDI channels and Sync modes. The step buttons will be abbreviated as STEP BUTTON * in bold font where "*" denotes the step number. For example "step button 4" would be denoted STEP

BUTTON 4.

1.2.4 CHROMATIC KEYBOARD

The buttons that make up the one octave keyboard are used for multiple functions. Whenever they are used for pitch (note) entry the buttons will denoted by [BUTTON KEY *] in bold font. For example, when referring to the "C#" key it would be written [BUTTON KEY C#].

The upper C is denoted [BUTTON KEY C'].

1.2.5 PATTERN BUTTONS

The "white" keys of the chromatic keyboard are used for pattern selection. Whenever the pattern 1-8 buttons are used in reference to pattern selection they will be denoted by PATTERN BUTTON in bold font. For example, when referring to pattern 6 it would be written as PATTERN BUTTON .

1.2.6 BUTTONS 1-4

The black buttons labeled 1-4 are used for various duties such as selecting pattern sections, pattern time signature, and for setting gate lengths and slide times per step.

When these buttons are referenced they are written BUTTON 1, BUTTON 2, BUTTON 3, & BUTTON 4. When referred to as a group they are written BUTTON 1-4.

7 AVALON - Reference Manual

1.2.7 NOTE, TIE, & REST BUTTONS

The note, tie and rest buttons are indicated by musical notation on the control surface of the Avalon. When used in this manual these buttons will be written NOTE, TIE and REST.

NOTE = (16th note symbol)

TIE = (16th tie symbol)

REST = (16th rest symbol)

1.2.8 NEXT & BACK BUTTONS

The Avalon has NEXT and BACK operations that are used in some modes. These buttons are not labeled with text, but rather with direction arrows ( ) as shown below. When used in this manual these buttons will be written NEXT and BACK.

1.2.9 ROTARY KNOBS

Rotary knob names are shown in uppercase bold italic. For example the "tune" control would be written as TUNE.

1.2.10 LED INDICATORS

LED states are illustrated below.

Fully Lit

Dimly Lit

Blinking

Off

LED indicators are illustrated by their function. This usually corresponds to the button text above or below the LED. For example, the accent led above the accent button would be written as [ACCENT

LED].

8 AVALON - Reference Manual

2 OVERVIEW

2.1 FRONT PANEL

[1] TUNE control sets the master tune of the oscillators.

[2] SUB/INPUT sets the level of the sub oscillator or

external input.

[3] WAVEFORM switches select the waveshape for the main

and sub oscillators. The main oscillator can be selected between saw, square and off. The sub oscillator can be selected between saw, triangle, and square waveforms.

[4] FILTER controls are used to set the cutoff, resonance

and key tracking amounts.

[5] FILTER ENVELOPE controls are used for setting the filter

envelope decay times, modulation depth, and accent amount.

[6] MODULATION ENVELOPE controls are used for setting the

attack and decay times of the modulation envelope and for setting the modulation depth to the filter and final amplifier.

[7] VCA DECAY sets the decay time of the VCA envelope.

[8] VOLUME sets the output level to the main output and

headphones.

[9] STEP BUTTONS are used to select and display sequence step

parameters.

[10] TIME is used to enter TIME related parameters and for entering

TIME ENTRY mode for step input.

[11] RECORD is used to record realtime performance into a

sequence.

[12] ARP - ARP MODE are used for enabling the arpeggiator and

setting the arp direction.

[13] BUTTONS 1-4 are used when selecting parameters such as such as pattern sections, time signatures, pattern & arp directions, and various pitch and time step attributes.

[14] KEYBOARD is used for selecting the pitch of notes. The white

keys together with the GROUP A/B buttons and PATT. BANK selector are also used for pattern selection.

[15] HOME is used to return the sequencer back to NORMAL MODE

for each primary mode.

[16] RUN is used to start and stop the sequencer.

[17] FUNCTION is used when selecting various alternate functions.

[18] PITCH is used to enter PITCH related parameters and for

entering PITCH ENTRY mode for step input.

[19] TEMPO sets the bpm of the sequencer when using internal sync.

TRACK / PATT. BANK selects the current track or pattern bank.

[20]

[21] MODE selects the sequencer primary mode.

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2.2 REAR PANEL

[1] DC POWER connector for connecting the external 6VDC PSU.

[2] PWR switch for turning the machine on and off.

[3] MAIN OUT is a 1/4" unbalanced jack for connecting the main

output to the sound system.

Make all audio connections before you turn on the power to

your audio mixer or amplifier. Turn on the power of your powered speaker or amplifier last. Turn off the power of your powered speaker or amplifier first.

[4] PHONES is a stereo 1/4" output jack for connecting

headphones.

[5] CV & GATE IN are 1/8" mono jacks used for controlling the

Avalon keyboard CV and filter/amp envelope gating from external analog gear.

[6] CV & GATE OUT are 1/8" mono jacks that output sequencer

pitch CV and gate. The CV output is 1V/Oct and the range is 0V to 5V. The gate output is a 0-12V V-trigger.

[7] SWP OUT is a normalized copy of the accent sweep control

voltage that is derived on accented notes. The output is 0V to 5V max.

[8] FILT CV accepts a CV input for controlling filter cutoff frequency.

The response is 1V/Oct. The useful range is 0-5V.

[9] VCA OUT is the output signal from the VCA.

[10] EXT IN is an audio input to the filter. It accepts a wide range of

signal levels as it has an internal preamp stage. When the external input is used the sub oscillator is bypassed.

[11] CARTRIDGE SLOT is used for optional filter cartridges.

[12] SAW and SQR are +/-5V buffered outputs from the oscillator.

[13] USB class compliant port for connection to a PC or Mac.

[14] MIDI jacks for MIDI input & output.

[15] DINSYNC jacks for DINSync input & output.

[16] FR selects the low frequency response of the audio between

normal and extended range. Normal range is -6dB @ 70Hz. Extended range is -6dB @ 30Hz.

[17] FILT B selects between the internal filter and a filter cartridge.

When the switch is pushed in (enabled) the filter cart is selected. If FILT B is selected and there is no filter cartridge inserted there will be no audio output from the synth.

[18] SUB (-2) selects the octave of the sub oscillator between (-1)

and (-2) octave. When the switch is pushed in (-2) octaves is selected.

2.3 INITIAL CONNECTIONS

AUDIO OUTPUTS. To hear the audio output from the synth you

will need to use headphones or connect the main output to your sound system.

POWER. Turn on the unit. The step indicators will splash a startup

pattern.

10 AVALON - Reference Manual

3 ANALOG SYNTH

3.1 ZERO THE SYNTHESIZER

Before starting to program a pattern it is a good idea to reset the analog synth voice to the default settings to ensure sound will be heard when a pattern is played.

The analog voice of the Avalon is backwards compatible with the Roland® TB-303. The additional features can be viewed as a layer on top of the original TB-303 which greatly expand the capabilities without being cumbersome or overwhelming. Together with the external filter cartridges from the Synth Cartridge System™ the Avalon is an extremely flexible mono synth with capabilities far beyond the TB-303 subset of sound and

performance.

The analog controls are laid out in a straightforward manner.

3.2 OSCILLATOR

TUNE sets the master tune of the oscillators. The range of the control is +/- 500 cents.

SUB/INPUT controls the level of the Sub Oscillator. When the external input is used the Sub Oscillator is bypassed and it controls the external input level.

The SUB and MAIN switches select the waveform for the main and sub oscillators. When the main oscillator switch is set to the center position the main oscillator is turned off. The switch selects the sub oscillator between (-1) and (-2) octaves. When the switch is pushed to the "in" position the sub oscillator is set to (-2) octaves and the indicator lights up for visual confirmation.

3.3 FILTER

CUTOFF adjusts the cutoff frequency of the filter. The internal filter is a low-pass diode ladder filter (TB-303), so in this case it controls the low-pass cutoff frequency. External filter cartridges may have any topology, so in these cases the CUTOFF control may relate to highpass, low-pass, band-pass, or notch frequency depending on the topology and filter mode of the cartridge being used.

RESONANCE sets the emphasis amount at the cutoff frequency.

TRACKING sets the key tracking amount. This determines how

much the filter cutoff frequency tracks the keyboard. The tracking is purposely non-linear with regards to keyboard scaling, so a one octave increase in key pitch will never correspond to a one octave increase in filter cutoff frequency for all notes. It is desirable to have a greater response at lower octaves in a bassline synthesizer. In the case of the Avalon the tracking is logarithmic, so tracking becomes progressively greater at lower octaves and progressively gradual at higher octaves. The changeover key for tracking is D#2 (77.78Hz), so as tracking is increased notes below D#2 will decrease the filter cutoff frequency and notes above it will increase the cutoff frequency.

The switch labeled is a hardware switch that selects between the internal TB-303 filter and an external filter residing on an optional filter cartridge. When the switch is in the 'out' position the internal filter is selected. When the switch is pushed to the 'in' position the filter plugin cartridge is selected and the LED indicator in the filter section lights up for visual confirmation that the external cartridge has been selected.

The switch stands for frequency response (or full range) and selects the low frequency response of the audio signal to the VCA. When the switch is in the 'out' position the frequency response rolls off at 70Hz. When the switch is pushed to the 'in' position the frequency response extends down below 30Hz.

11 AVALON - Reference Manual

The frequency response of the audio signal to the final amplifier in the TB-303 (and hence the Avalon w/ default setting) is limited to ~70Hz. This was done to maximize the signal-to-noise performance of the TB303 by removing the low frequency component of the signal that would drive it into clipping faster. If exact TB-303 clone behavior is desired this switch should be left in he 'out' position. However, for a full-range response, especially when using the sub oscillator, you may want to extend the frequency response.

3.4 FILTER ENVELOPE

The filter envelope is a simple decay envelope. ENV MOD controls the depth of the envelope modulation. ACC DECAY and ENV DECAY set the decay time of the filter envelope for accented and unaccented notes respectively. In both cases the decay time can be adjusted between 200ms and 2s.

The implementation of the filter envelope and filter modulation in

general is non-standard. For specific details please see Appendix B.

The original TB-303 does not allow the filter envelope modulation to be turned all the way off. The Avalon has an internal switch setting that allows the filter envelope depth to maintain the TB-303 behavior. See Appendix A for details.

When an accent has been programmed (or played) an additional control voltage (envelope) is sent to the filter and final amplifier (VCA). First, a copy of the filter envelope is sent to the VCA control input to give a volume boost on accented notes. Second, a slewed copy of the filter envelope is sent to the filter control input. This is responsible for the characteristic wow sounds you can get with accented notes. The character of this slewed version also varies with the setting of the RESONANCE control, as increasing resonance also increases the slew of this control voltage. The depth of this additional accent modulation is determined by the ACCENT control.

For specific details on the behavior of accents on the filter and

amplifier see Appendix B.

3.5 AMPLIFIER

3.6 MODULATION ENVELOPE

The modulation envelope is an additional attack-decay (AD) envelope that can be used to modulate the filter and the final amplifier (VCA). In addition to the dedicated filter and amp decay envelopes, this modulation envelope allows for more complex modulation. The modulation is bipolar and the envelope can be triggered on any step of a sequence and manually in REALTIME modes.

ATTACK and DECAY set the attack and decay time of the envelope. The attack time ranges from 0.9ms to 6s. The decay time ranges from

1.7ms to 10s.

VCF DEPTH and VCA DEPTH sets the amount of positive (+) or negative (-) envelope modulation to the filter and VCA respectively.

VCF DEPTH has been designed with a progressive voltage offset for increasing (+) or (-) modulations amounts. When the control is rotated clockwise for (+) modulation a negative offset is applied to the filter control input. Likewise, as an increasing (-) modulation amount is set by rotating the control counter-clockwise a positive offset is applied to the filter control input. See Appendix B for more

details.

The VCA Depth implementation as described above and in Appendix

B allows the VCA to be opened (drone mode) by setting the control for maximum (-) modulation.

A key feature of the Avalon is the triggering of the modulation envelope via the sequencer. The term "MOD ENV" as used in this manual refers to programming or playing a modulation envelope trigger. This should not be confused with "ENV MOD" , which is the name given to the filter envelope depth control.

3.7 OUTPUT

VCA DECAY sets the decay time of the final amplifier (VCA) envelope. The control ranges from off to 4s decay time.

The VCA Envelope is identical to TB-303. While the decay time is

variable in the case of the Avalon, the attack is fixed to retain the behavior of the TB-303. This envelope can be turned completely off by setting VCA DECAY to the minimum setting.

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VOLUME controls the output level.

There is a discrete "mixer" stage after the volume control. This is a

carryover from the TB-303 which has a Mix Input before the output jack. In order to retain the same behavior the Avalon incorporates this same circuit. This stage clips asymmetrically and can clip easily. If you hear unwanted distortion in the main or phones outputs try turning down the volume control.

4 SEQUENCER OVERVIEW

4.1 PRIMARY MODES

The sequencer has (4) primary modes as indicated by the MODE switch:

 PATTERN WRITE  PATTERN PLAY  TRACK WRITE  TRACK PLAY

4.1.1 CHANGING PRIMARY MODES

The primary mode can be changed in realtime while the sequencer is running.

4.1.1.1 BETWEEN PATTERN MODES

When changing the primary mode between pattern write and pattern play modes the current pattern or pattern chain continues to play uninterrupted.

4.1.1.2 BETWEEN TRACK MODES

When changing the primary mode between track write and track play modes the current track continues to play uninterrupted.

4.1.1.3 BETWEEN PATTERN & TRACK MODES

When changing the primary mode from a track mode to a pattern mode, the selected pattern will begin in sync at the end of the current track step.

When changing the primary mode from a pattern mode to a track mode, the selected track will start in sync after the current pattern or pattern chain.

4.2.2 PATTERN STEP ATTRIBUTES

Various pitch and time attributes can be entered for each step as shown in the diagram below:

* attributes not found on the TB-303

4.2.3 PATTERN MODIFIERS

In addition to per STEP attributes there are top level pattern modifiers. These are settings that are performed on the entire pattern as opposed to the individual steps. These include parameters such as the time signature and pattern length. These settings are saved with each pattern.

4.2 WHAT IS A PATTERN?

Before continuing with details on pattern editing it is necessary to understand the structure of a pattern. A pattern is a sequence of pitch and time events, or steps.

4.2.1 THE PATTERN STEP

As is the case with traditional step sequencers, the PATTERN STEP is the fundamental parameter of a pattern, representing a musical event, such as a 1/16th note. Pattern steps relate directly to the (16) lighted STEP BUTTONS on the control surface. These buttons are a linear time representation of the pattern:

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4.2.4 PATTERN OVERALL STRUCTURE

Below is a diagram of the overall pattern structure:

4.3 PATTERN SELECTION

The Avalon has (112) internal patterns. Patterns are organized into (7) banks with (16) patterns within each bank. The (16) patterns of each bank are further organized into two groups of eight.

4.3.1 PATTERN BANK

First, select one of seven pattern banks with the PATT. BANK selector.

4.3.2 PATTERN GROUP

Second, select Group A or Group B with the GROUP A-B buttons.

4.3.3 PATTERN NUMBER

Lastly, select a pattern number using the PATTERN BUTTONS - .

4.4 PATTERN PLAYBACK

To play back a pattern using internal sync Press RUN while in PATTERN PLAY or PATTERN WRITE MODE. Set the TEMPO control so that you can see the step indicators running across the sixteen steps. The RUN indicator is lit when the sequencer is running.

For information on sequencer sync options, including how to slave the Avalon to DINSync or MIDI please see section 10.1.

4.4.1 TEMPO

Set the tempo using the TEMPO control. The tempo ranges from 40 300BPM.

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4.5 WHAT IS A TRACK?

A TRACK is a sequence of PATTERNS. TRACKS are used to compose entire songs from one or more patterns.

Each TRACK is made up of a series of TRACK STEPS. A TRACK can contain up to (64) individual TRACK STEPS. Each TRACK STEP can have it's own transpose value and number of repeats.

4.6 TRACK SELECTION

The Avalon has (7) internal tracks. Tracks are selected using the rotary switch and are denoted by the roman numerals I through VII. Tracks are made up of patterns within the pattern bank that corresponds to the track number. For example, TRACK IV uses patterns that reside in PATTERN BANK .

4.7 TRACK PLAYBACK

To play back a track using internal sync Press RUN while in TRACK PLAY MODE. Set the TEMPO control so that you can see the step indicators running across the sixteen steps. The RUN indicator is lit when the sequencer is running.

For information on sequencer sync options, including how to slave the Avalon to DINSync or MIDI please see section 10.1.

TEMPO

Set the tempo using the TEMPO control. The tempo ranges from 40 300BPM.

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5 PATTERN WRITE MO

PATTERN WRITE MODE is where patterns are composed & edited. Pattern and Track modes can be changed and all programming can be done realtime while the sequencer is running.

For details on PATTERN SELECTION please see section 4.3.

5.1 OVERVIEW

Within PATTERN WRITE MODE there are several (sub) modes for editing pattern data. Below is a diagram of the basic workflow of PATTERN WRITE MODE:

5.2 NORMAL MODE

NORMAL MODE is the most direct and comprehensive method for entering pattern data. It is the default "HOME" state of PATTERN WRITE MODE. NORMAL MODE is indicated by a solid lit indicator above the HOME button.

5.2.1 PATTERN CLEAR, COPY & PASTE

To clear a pattern press [FUNCTION] + [CLEAR] and the current pattern will be cleared.

NORMAL MODE is the main mode for entering pattern data. It is also the "HOME" state of the sequencer in PATTERN WRITE MODE.

RECORD MODE is for recording a pattern in realtime by playing the control surface or external MIDI/USB-MIDI device.

PITCH & TIME (STEP ENTRY) MODE is based on the TB-303 style of entering pattern data.

REALTIME MODE is used to add or mute accent, slide and/or modulation envelope triggers in realtime without overwriting pattern data.

ARPEGGIATOR is used for playing arpeggios. Arpeggios can also be recorded realtime directly into a pattern.

The various editing modes are not exclusive of each other, you can go back and forth between them to modify pattern data.

A NOTE ON SAVING TO MEMORY

The memory contents of a pattern bank are stored temporarily in RAM, so any changes to patterns are automatically stored in RAM to allow the sequencer to playback in all main modes without being interrupted. In this regard there is no explicit save function for patterns, and workflow is not interrupted. Whenever the sequencer is stopped, or the Pattern Bank or Track is changed, the scratchpad RAM contents are stored to permanent memory.

The default settings for a pattern are shown below:

 Time Signature = 1x (one step is 1/16 note)  Pattern Length = 16 steps  All steps = ACTIVE  All steps = REST  All steps = PITCH C3 (65.4Hz)  SLIDE TIME = 100mS for all steps  FILTER CV offset = 0  GATE TIME = 50% for all steps  SHUFFLE = 1 (off)  No transpositions, accents, slides, or mod env triggers

To copy a pattern press [FUNCTION] + [COPY]. The current pattern wil be copied to the pattern buffer.

To paste to a new location select a new pattern and press

[FUNCTION] + [PASTE].

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Patterns can also be copied between banks by selecting a new bank

before pasting.

5.2.2 PATTERN CHAINING

A group of patterns within the current PATTERN GROUP can chained. A pattern chain will loop continuously until a different pattern or a new pattern chain is selected. To create a pattern chain select the first pattern in the chain followed by the last pattern in the chain. The LED indicators of the patterns within the chain will remain lit to show the chain. The LED indicator of the currently playing pattern will blink.

5.2.3 PATTERN MODIFIERS

Pattern modifiers are the global settings for each pattern, such as the time signature, pattern length, and shuffle amount. Pattern modifiers can only be performed in NORMAL MODE.

1) Pattern Length 7) Pattern Rotate

2) Last Step 8) Pattern Randomize

3) Section Copy 9) Pattern Transpose

4) Time Signature 10) Filter Mode

5) Shuffle 11) Screensaver Mode

6) Pattern Direction

5.2.3.1 PATTERN LENGTH

Patterns can be up to (64) steps long. They are divided into four SECTIONS of (16) steps.

Sections are selected by pressing SECTION + BUTTON 1-4. When the current section is changed the control surface shifts to display and control the parameters for the newly selected section. For example, to select SECTION 2 press SECTION + BUTTON 2 (if the pattern is less than or equal to 16 steps there may not yet be active data in the section):

b) Select the last step within SECTION 2 (step 29) by pressing [TIME] + STEP BUTTON 13. The indicator will light solid.

When pressing and holding the [TIME] button the last step will show on the STEP BUTTON indicators.

Pitch & Time data can be entered for sections beyond the section that

includes the last step. This allows for realtime manipulation.

5.2.3.3 COPY PATTERN SECTION

A section of a pattern can be copied to another section as follows:

a) Select a section to copy from by pressing SECTION + BUTTON 1-4 as described in section 5.2.3.1. b) Press [TIME] + [FUNCTION] + [COPY] to copy. c) Select a section to paste to by pressing SECTION + BUTTON 1-4. d) Press [TIME] + [FUNCTION] + [PASTE] to paste to the new section.

5.2.3.4 TIME SIGNATURE

Patterns can be assigned one of (8) time signatures.

 1/2x: each step = 1/32 note  1x : each step = 1/16 note (default)  2x: each step = 1/8 note  4x : each step = 1/4 note  1/2x triplet: each step = 1/32 note triplet  1x triplet: each step = 1/16 note triplet  2x triplet: each step = 1/8 note triplet  4x triplet: each step = 1/4 note triplet

The scale is set using the scale buttons. To change the scale the press

[TIME] + [1/2x]/[1x]/[2x]/[4]. For example, to select the 2x scale press [TIME] + [2x].

5.2.3.2 LAST STEP

Before changing pattern lengths and entering step attributes it is important to understand LAST STEP.

LAST STEP sets the last step of a pattern so that the sequencer knows when to loop. To set the last step for a pattern first select the SECTION of the desired last step as described in section 5.2.3.1. Once viewing the desired section press [TIME] + STEP BUTTON of the desired last step.

For example, to set the last step as step 29 of a sequence you would do as follows:

a) Select SECTION 2 by pressing SECTION + BUTTON 2 as shown in section 5.2.3.1.

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To select the triple variation of a scale double-click the corresponding button.

Whenever the [TIME] button is pressed and held the current timing scale of the pattern displays on the scale buttons indicators. When in a triplet scale the indicator blinks.

When in triplet modes a pattern must be a triplet division. When

switching scales between a duple and triplet, the last step is automatically changed to a triplet division to keep the pattern in sync. For example, switching from 1x time scale to 1x (triplet) on a 16 step pattern will automatically change the last step to step 12.

Changing the scale will not take effect until the pattern loops so the

pattern stays in sync.

5.2.3.5 SHUFFLE

Shuffle is available for all duple meters. The amount of available shuffle depends on the selected scale as shown below. The shuffle setting is saved with each pattern.

 1/2x - 4 levels of shuffle  1x - 6 levels of shuffle  2x - 8 levels of shuffle  4x - 8 levels of shuffle

The shuffle amount is set and displayed using the PATTERN BUTTONS and corresponding indicators. To view the current shuffle

setting press & hold [TIME] . While the button is held the shuffle amount is indicated on the pattern button indicators. The higher the number the greater the shuffle amount. To set the amount of shuffle press [TIME] + PATTERN BUTTON - .

A setting of "1" indicates no shuffle.

Changes in shuffle amount do not take effect until the pattern loops.

5.2.3.6 PATTERN DIRECTION

There are (4) options for pattern direction. The direction is set and displayed using the [FUNCTION] &

[UP]/[DOWN] buttons.

5.2.3.8 PATTERN RANDOMIZE

Randomizing a pattern overwrites all pitch & time parameters with random data. Once a pattern is randomized the original data is lost. To randomize a pattern press [FUNCTION] + [RANDOM].

PATTERN RANDOMIZE is different than pattern random direction as

described in section 5.2.3.5. 'Randomize' randomizes all pattern data. The 'Random' pattern direction simply plays the pattern steps in random order.

5.2.3.9 PATTERN TRANSPOSE

Patterns can be globally transposed in semitones and octaves. To transpose a pattern press the [PITCH] and the octave [UP]/[DOWN] buttons and/or [BUTTON KEYS] to enter the transpose amount. The transpose amount is relative to [BUTTON KEY C], where C corresponds to the root pattern (no transpose). For example, to transpose a pattern by a 5th (seven semitones) press [PITCH] + [BUTTON KEY G].

 RANDOM. When the [UP] & [DOWN] indicators are both

unlit the pattern steps are played in a random repeating pattern.

 FORWARD. When the [UP] indictor is lit the pattern is

played forwards.

 REVERSE. When the [DOWN] indictor is lit the pattern is

played in reverse.

 PENDULUM. When both the [UP] & [DOWN] indicators are

lit the pattern is played forwards & then backwards.

The graphic above the buttons shows the indicator combination for each option so it doesn't have to be memorized.

To change the pattern direction press [FUNCTION] + [UP]/[DOWN] and select the desired option.

Pendulum mode repeats the last step so that the pattern remains a

the same time division.

5.2.3.7 PATTERN ROTATE

Pattern steps can be rotated forwards and backwards using the

[FUNCTION] & [ROTATE] buttons. For example, to rotate the pattern

data forwards one step press [FUNCTION] + [ROTATE ].

5.2.3.10 FILTER B MODE

The [FILT MODE] button is for selecting between filter modes for an

external filter cartridge. Filter cartridges are referred to as FILTER B as they are a secondary plugin filter option. All filter carts support two filter modes, and the mode is saved with each pattern. Mode "1" is selected when the [FILT MODE LED] is unlit. Mode "2" is selected when the [FILT MODE LED] is lit. Details on FILT B MODES are specific to each filter cartridge.

5.2.3.11 SCREENSAVER MODE (LOW NOISE)

SCREENSAVER MODE is useful for getting the best noise performance when using the Avalon with distortion pedals or plugins. In these instances where the signal-to-noise ratio is diminished as the output is effectively compressed 30dB or more it may be possible to hear artifacts from analog and digital system noise.

To enter SCREENSAVE MODE press [FUNCTION] + [SYSTEM]. This will minimize digital noise by turning off the STEP BUTTON LED's and minimizing noise from the button and LED scanning matrix.

To exit SCREENSAVER MODE press HOME.

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5.2.4 PITCH ATTRIBUTES

There are several pitch-related parameters for each pattern step. These include the following:

1) Pitch

2) Accent & Slide

3) Transpose

4) Modulation Envelope Triggers

5) Slide Time

6) Filter CV Offset

7) Gate Length

These attributes can all be set while the sequencer is running.

5.2.4.1 PITCH

To enter a pitch, press and hold a step button and select a key on the chromatic keyboard. For example, to enter a "C#" on step 1 press STEP BUTTON 1 + [BUTTON KEY C#]. The C# indicator will remain lit while the step button is held to indicate C# has been programmed.

The keyboard has two "C" keys. The low C key can be transposed [UP]

(3) octaves as the note will first shift to the higher C' key.

To Transpose a pattern step press STEP BUTTON + [UP]/[DOWN]. For example, to transpose step 4 up an octave press STEP BUTTON 4

+ [UP].

5.2.4.4 MODULATION ENVELOPE TRIGGERS

The Avalon has an extra modulation envelope that can be triggered on any step in a similar way to accents and slides. To trigger the modulation envelope press STEP BUTTON + [ENV]. For example, to add a trigger to step 1 press STEP BUTTON 1 + [ENV].

5.2.4.5 SLIDE TIME

The Avalon allows each note event to have a different slide time. To set the slide time for a note event press STEP BUTTON + SECTION + BUTTON 1-4.

 TIME 1 = 30mS  TIME 2 = 100mS (default 303)  TIME 3 = 250mS  TIME 4 = 1s

For example, to set a slide time of 250mS on step 1 press STEP BUTTON 1 + SECTION + 3.

5.2.4.2 ACCENT & SLIDE

Accent and Slide are entered in the same way as pitch. Press and hold a STEP BUTTON and press [ACCENT] and/or [SLIDE] to enter the respective data. For example, to accent step 1 press STEP BUTTON 1 + [ACCENT]. The accent indicator will remain lit while the step button is held to indicate an accent has been programmed.

5.2.4.3 TRANSPOSE

Since the chromatic keyboard is only one octave, a step can be transposed down one octave and up one or two octaves. When transposing down the [DOWN LED] is lit. When transposing up one octave the [UP LED] is lit. When transposing up two octaves the [UP

LED] blinks.

5.2.4.6 FILTER CV OFFSET

The Avalon allows for a Filter CV Offset to be set for each step. This will open or close the filter by the offset value for the duration of the step. There are a total of 112 values (-64 to +48) covering a (4) octave range.

5.2.4.6.1 ENTER FILTER CV OFFSET MODE

Press [FUNCTION] + [FILT CV] to enter Filter CV Mode. The [FILT CV] indicator will blink while in this Mode:

5.2.4.6.2 HOW FILTER CV OFFSETS ARE DISPLAYED

The Filter CV Offset value is indicated using BUTTONS 1-4 & PATTERN BUTTON - LED's.

The BUTTON 1-4 LED's signify groups of (16) values. The PATTERN BUTTON - LED's indicate the (16) discrete values within each

group.

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When positive Filter CV Offset values are selected the BUTTON 1-4 LED's are lit solid. When negative Filter CV Offset values are selected

the BUTTON 1-4 LED's blink.

A step with no Filter CV Offset is indicated by a solid BUTTON 1 LED with no lit PATTERN BUTTONS LED's:

As the first (16) positive values are selected the BUTTON 1 LED will remain lit solid and the PATTERN BUTTON LED's - will light up sequentially with increasing value. Each LED indicates two discrete values so the pattern buttons show a total of (16) values. As the value increases beyond the first (16) positive values the BUTTON 2 LED will light up along with the PATTERN BUTTON LED's - to show the next groups of (16) values, in this case values (17-32). Likewise, after the first (32) positive values BUTTON 3 will light up along with PATTERN BUTTON LED's - to show values (33-48).

For example, a FILTER CV Offset value of +32 is indicated by a solid lit BUTTON 2 LED and all PATTERN BUTTON LED's lit:

Negative Filter CV offset values are displayed in the same manner but in reverse (descending) order, so the first group of (16) negative offset values will be indicated by a blinking BUTTON 4 LED along with lit PATTERN BUTTON LED's. There are (64) negative Filter CV offset values.

This operation is logical and makes easier sense when actually

performed! Check the online video tutorials for more information.

5.2.4.6.3 HOW FILTER CV OFFSETS ARE SELECTED

The offset value for a step is set using the STEP BUTTONS, PATTERN BUTTON - , and the NEXT & BACK buttons. The are two

methods to enter the offset.

a) Press and hold a STEP BUTTON to select a step to edit. While holding the STEP BUTTON use NEXT & BACK to scroll through the Filter CV Offset values to increase & decrease the offset.

b) Alternatively, you can type in the value directly using BUTTONS 1- 4 & PATTERN BUTTONS - . This will allow you to enter/jump to a value quickly, or to improvise and play offsets in realtime. To select a positive offset group press BUTTON 1-4 once. To select a negative offset group double click one of the BUTTONS 1-4.

A Filter CV Offset of '0' is equivalent to a MIDI CC#74 value of 78. The

range of Filter CV Offset values is equivalent to MIDI CC#74 values of 13-

126.

5.2.4.6.4 CLEAR ALL

To reset all Filter CV Offsets to "0" simply press [CLEAR] while in FILTER CV MODE.

5.2.4.6.5 EXIT FILTER CV MODE

Press HOME to exit FILTER CV MODE and return to NORMAL MODE.

5.2.4.7 GATE LENGTH

The Avalon allows for (4) different gate lengths per step. Gate lengths are shown as a percentage of the step length. The default gate length is 50% (same as the TB-303). The available gate lengths are 10%, 30%, 50% and 90%.

BUTTON 1 = 10% BUTTON 3 = 50% (default 303)

BUTTON 2 = 30% BUTTON 4 = 90%

To set the gate length for a step press STEP BUTTON + [FUNCTION] + BUTTON 1-4.

For example, to set a gate time of 50% on step 1 press STEP BUTTON 1 + [FUNCTION] + BUTTON 3:

5.2.5 TIME ATTRIBUTES

There are also time-related parameters for each pattern step:

1) Note Event

2) Tie / Rest

3) Active Steps

5.2.5.1 NOTE EVENTS

Note events are added to a sequence simply by pressing the STEP BUTTONS. When a note has been added to a step the STEP BUTTON LED will light up. This indicates that the step is active and a note is

entered. If you press the same STEP BUTTON again the indicator will go out and the step is set as a REST.

5.2.5.2 NOTE LENGTH, TIES & RESTS

To set a note length greater than one step press & hold the first step of the note and then press the last step of the note. Now it is one long note with ties automatically programmed for the intermediate steps. For example, to make steps 1-4 one long note (this would be a quarter-note at the default 1x scale) you would press STEP BUTTON 1 + STEP BUTTON 4. Steps that are tied are easily seen as the indicators will be half-brightness.

Steps that don't have a note or tie programmed are RESTS and are indicated by unlit STEP BUTTON LED's.

5.2.5.3 ACTIVE STEPS

Steps in a pattern can be skipped by pressing [TIME] + [ACTIVE] + STEP BUTTON. While holding down [TIME] + [ACTIVE] you can easily see which steps are inactive in a pattern section, as steps that are not active are not lit. De-activating steps will inherently change the pattern length.

For example, to set step 16 as an active step hold [TIME] + [ACTIVE] and press STEP BUTTON 16 until it is lit.

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5.3 PITCH & TIME STEP ENTRY MODES

The Avalon can also be programmed like the TB-303 where pitch and time information are entered separately. There are also enhancements to the TB-303 method.

5.3.1 PITCH STEP ENTRY

Double click [PITCH] to enter pitch entry mode. The [PITCH LED] lights up and the Avalon is ready to accept note events in a step entry fashion.

To enter note events (pitches) press the keys on the chromatic keyboard. When a pitch is entered the sequencer will automatically advance to the next step. The current step awaiting note entry is indicated by the blinking STEP BUTTON LED.

To skip a step forwards or backwards use the NEXT and BACK buttons:

When a note, tie, or rest is entered the sequencer will automatically advance to the next step. The current step awaiting time data entry is indicated by the blinking STEP BUTTON LED.

To skip a step forwards or backwards use the NEXT and BACK buttons.

The sequencer will automatically exit to NORMAL MODE once the time attributes for the LAST STEP have been entered. If you want to exit PITCH ENTRY MODE before the last step of the sequence simply press HOME to go back to NORMAL MODE.

If it is desired to use TIME STEP ENTRY MODE as the exclusive mode for

entering time information the pattern length (last step) still must be set as described in section 5.2.3.1.

Avalon uses 16th note, tie and rest symbols even though the step length (time division) may be different if not using the default 1x time signature. A step may correspond to a 32nd (1/2x scale), an eight, (2x scale), or a quarter (4x scale). The notation is a salute to the original TB-

303 control surface.

5.4 RECORD MODE

The sequencer will automatically exit to NORMAL MODE once the pitch attributes for the LAST STEP have been entered. If you want to exit PITCH ENTRY MODE before the last step of the sequence simply press HOME to go back to NORMAL MODE.

If the pattern uses more than one section the current section view

will automatically increment when the current step gets to the next section.

5.3.2 TIME STEP ENTRY

Double click [TIME] to enter time entry mode. The [TIME LED] lights up and the Avalon is ready to accept time events in a step entry fashion.

To enter time attributes use the NOTE, TIE, & REST BUTTONS.

Record mode is useful for recording pattern data realtime by playing the chromatic keyboard or an external MIDI device.

5.4.1 ENTER & EXIT RECORD MODE

To enter RECORD MODE simply press RECORD. The HOME LED will blink to indicate that you are in RECORD MODE.

If the sequencer is stopped press RUN to start it. To exit RECORD MODE press HOME to return to NORMAL MODE.

5.4.2 RECORDING REALTIME PERFORMANCE

There are several step attributes that can be recorded realtime:

1) Record Notes

2) Record Transpose

3) Record Accent & Slide

4) Record Modulation Envelope Triggers

5) Record Slide Time

6) Record Filter CV Offset

5.4.2.1 RECORD NOTES

As the sequencer is running simply play notes on the Avalon or from an external MIDI device. If you hold a key down for multiple steps it will program the note length automatically.

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5.4.2.2 RECORD TRANSPOSE

To record realtime TRANPOSE press [PITCH] + [UP]/[DOWN]. For example to transpose a step, series of steps, or an entire pattern down one octave press and hold [PITCH] + [DOWN] in realtime.

5.5 REALTIME MODE

5.4.2.3 RECORD ACCENT & SLIDE

To record realtime ACCENT & SLIDE press [PITCH] + [ACCENT]/[SLIDE]. For example, to record accents to a step or series

of steps press and hold [PITCH] + [ACCENT] in realtime.

If recording from an external MIDI device ACCENTS will be programmed for notes with a NOTE ON velocity higher than MIDI value 63. SLIDES are programmed when notes are played legato (overlapping).

5.4.2.4 RECORD MOD ENV

To record realtime MOD ENV triggers press [PITCH] + [ENV] whenever you would like to add a trigger to a step or series of steps.

If recording realtime from am external MIDI device MOD ENV triggers can be recorded by sending MIDI CC#80 with a value higher than 63.

5.4.2.5 RECORD SLIDE TIME

You can also record realtime SLIDE TIME by pressing [PITCH] + SECTION + BUTTON 1-4.

BUTTONS 1-4 select the four available slide times.

 TIME 1 = 30mS  TIME 2 = 100mS (default 303)  TIME 3 = 250mS  TIME 4 = 1s

Realtime Mode is used for adding or muting accent, slide and/or modulation envelope triggers in realtime without overwriting the pattern data. If you want to edit the data permanently use Record Mode as described in section 5.4.

5.5.1 REALTIME ACCENT & SLIDE

Accent and Slide can be played to trigger accents and slides.

To override pattern step data with accents and/or slides, press [PITCH] + [ACCENT] / [SLIDE]. For example, to force a pattern to accent steps press and hold [PITCH] + [ACCENT].

Accent and Slide can also be played to mute accents and slides.

To override pattern step data and mute accents and/or slides, press

[FUNCTION] + [PITCH] + [ACCENT] / [SLIDE] . For example, to force a

pattern to mute accents press and hold [FUNCTION] + [PITCH] +

[ACCENT].

5.5.2 REALTIME MOD ENV

The modulation envelope can be triggered in realtime by pressing [PITCH] + [ENV]. Each time the button combination is pressed the modulation envelope will be triggered.

5.4.2.6 RECORD FILTER CV OFFSET

FILT CV offsets can be recorded from an external MIDI device by sending MIDI CC#74 messages while in RECORD MIDE. The incoming

The modulation envelope can also be triggered with the sequencer

stopped. This can be useful for drones with long evolving filter and/or VCA modulation.

To mute modulation envelope triggers to prevent it from being triggered press and hold [FUNCTION] + [PITCH] + [ENV].

MIDI data will be sampled and the value set for each step.

Filter cutoff data (MIDI CC#74) is also received by the Avalon outside

of RECORD MODE for traditional cutoff control (not a per-step parameter lock).

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5.6 ARPEGGIATOR

The Avalon includes an arpeggiator with multiple modes and a realtime record option.

5.6.1 ARP ON/OFF

To turn on the arpeggiator press ARP. When the arpeggiator is active the ARP LED blinks.

To exit the arpeggiator press HOME to return to NORMAL MODE. When back in NORMAL MODE the ARP LED will stop blinking and the NORMAL LED will be lit solid to indicate the sequencer is back in NORMAL MODE.

5.6.2 NOTE ENTRY

To enter notes for the arpeggio simply enter notes on the chromatic keyboard or via an external MIDI device.

5.6.2.1 VIA AVALON KEYBOARD

The method for entering notes for an arpeggio from the control surface is consecutive note input. This means notes are entered one at a time. For example, the enter a C-major chord comprised of notes CE-G you would press and release [BUTTON KEY C], then press and release [BUTTON KEY E], and then press and release [BUTTON KEY G]. If notes are pressed simultaneously the results are not predictable as a result of a design limitation imposed by the TB-303 compatible keyboard input matrix.

5.6.2.2 VIA EXTERNAL MIDI

To enter notes for an arpeggio from an external MIDI device make sure the MIDI input channel is set (see section 10.1.2). The arpeggio can be played across the entire range that the Avalon responds to (F#0 to D#5). The notes for the arpeggio must be held, they are not latched as they are when entering notes from the Avalon control surface.

5.6.3 ARP MODE

There are four arpeggiator modes:

 Up  Down  Up/Down  Played

The mode is entered using the ARP MODE and [UP]/[DOWN] buttons in a similar way as pattern direction. The two buttons and their corresponding indicators allow for four states as indicated on the graphic:

1) To select UP mode press ARP MODE + [UP] (the UP LED will be lit).

2) To select DOWN mode press ARP MODE + [DOWN] (the DOWN

LED will lit).

3) To select UP/DOWN mode press ARP MODE + [DOWN] + [UP] (the DOWN & UP LED's will be lit).

4) To select PLAYED mode press ARP MODE + [DOWN]/[UP] until both the [DOWN LED] & [UP LED] are not lit.

In PLAYED mode the notes in the arpeggio are played in the order they are entered on the Avalon keyboard or played via MIDI.

5.6.4 REALTIME ACCENT, SLIDE, & MOD ENV

Accents, slides, and modulation envelope triggers can be played realtime while the arpeggiator is running by pressing [ACCENT],

[SLIDE] and/or [ENV].

5.6.5 ARP RECORD

If you like an arpeggio and want to record it directly into the current pattern simply press and hold RECORD. While the button is pressed and held, the arpeggio data is recorded into the pattern in realtime.

You can also record realtime accent, slide, and modulation envelope triggers into the pattern by holding the RECORD button while entering realtime accent, slide, & mod env as described above in section 5.6.4.

5.7 PATTERN SYSEX DUMP

The pattern data of the pattern copy buffer can be dumped over MIDI as system exclusive information. This allows patterns to be backed up to a computer for storage. Pattern dumps can be sent and received while the sequencer is running.

5.7.1 TRANSMIT

To transmit a specific pattern, it should first be copied to the pattern copy buffer using the track copy function as described in section

5.2.1. Once the pattern is copied make sure the receiving MIDI device is setup to listen for the SYSEX dump. Press [FUNCTION] + [DUMP] to initiate the dump.

5.7.2 RECEIVE

Once the external MIDI device is setup press [FUNCTION] + [DUMP] to initiate the dump. When a SYSEX pattern dump is received over MIDI it is placed into the pattern copy buffer and must be pasted into a destination pattern location by selecting a pattern and pressing

[FUNCTION] + [PASTE]

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6 PATTERN PLAY MODE

PATTERN PLAY mode is used for playing back existing patterns. It is useful for performance playback as it allows for realtime changes of some pitch and time parameters without the ability to destructively edit step attributes.

PATTERN SELECTION is described in section 4.3.

6.1 OVERVIEW

Within PATTERN PLAY MODE there are two (sub) modes for editing pattern data. Below is a simple graphical representation of the basic workflow of PATTERN WRITE MODE:

6.2.2 PATTERN CHAINING

A group of patterns within the current pattern group can chained. A pattern chain will loop continuously until a different pattern or new pattern chain is selected. To create a pattern chain select the first pattern in the chain followed by the last pattern in the chain. The LED indicators of the patterns within the chain will remain lit to show the chain. The LED indicator of the currently playing pattern will blink.

6.3 REALTIME MODE

NORMAL MODE is the main mode for entering pattern data. It is also

the "HOME" state of the sequencer in PATTERN PLAY MODE. REALTIME MODE is used for overriding pattern step attributes realtime.

All editing in PATTERN PLAY MODE can be performed with the sequencer running.

6.2 NORMAL MODE

NORMAL MODE is where patterns and pattern chains are selected. NORMAL MODE is indicated by a solid lit indicator above the HOME button.

6.2.1 PATTERN SELECTION

Patterns are selected using the PATTERN BUTTONS & GROUP A/B BUTTONS as described in section 4.3.

There are several pattern attributes that can be performed realtime to override the pattern settings.

1) Transpose

2) Accent & Slide

3) Mod Env Triggers

4) Pattern Rest (Mute)

6.3.1 TRANSPOSE

Patterns can be transposed in semitones and octaves. To transpose realtime press the [PITCH] and the octave [UP]/[DOWN] buttons and/or [BUTTON KEYS] to enter the transpose amount. The transpose amount is relative to [BUTTON KEY C], where C corresponds to the root pattern (no transpose). For example, to transpose a pattern by a 5th (seven semitones) press [PITCH] + [BUTTON KEY G].

Pattern Transpose settings in PATTERN PLAY MODE are saved. This is

the only parameter that can be edited/saved in PATTERN PLAY MODE.

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6.3.2 REALTIME ACCENT & SLIDE

Accent and Slide can be played to trigger accents and slides.

To override pattern step data with accents and/or slides, press [PITCH] + [ACCENT] / [SLIDE]. For example, to force a pattern to accent steps press and hold [PITCH] + [ACCENT].

Accent and Slide can also be played realtime to mute accents and slides.

To override pattern step data and mute accents and/or slides, press

[FUNCTION] + [PITCH] + [ACCENT] / [SLIDE] . For example, to force a

pattern to mute accents press and hold [FUNCTION] + [PITCH] +

[ACCENT].

6.3.3 REALTIME MOD ENV

The modulation envelope can be triggered in realtime by pressing [PITCH] + [ENV]. Each time the button combination is pressed the modulation envelope will be triggered.

The modulation envelope can also be triggered with the sequencer

stopped. This can be useful for drones with long evolving filter and/or VCA modulation.

To mute modulation envelope triggers to prevent it from being triggered press [FUNCTION] + [PITCH] + [ENV].

6.3.4 REALTIME MUTE

Rests can be played realtime to override the pattern time data. This selectively mutes the pattern. This is done by pressing REST .

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7 TRACK WRITE MODE

7.1 OVERVIEW

Within TRACK WRITE MODE there are two (sub) modes for editing track data. Below is a simple graphical representation of the basic workflow of TRACK WRITE MODE:

NORMAL MODE is the main mode for entering track data. It is also the "HOME" state of the sequencer in TRACK WRITE MODE. REALTIME MODE is used for overriding track step attributes in realtime.

All editing in TRACK WRITE MODE can be performed with the sequencer running.

7.2 SELECTING TRACKS

Select one of the (7) TRACKS to write to using the TRACK / PATT. BANK selector.

NORMAL MODE is where TRACKS STEPS are programmed. It is the default "HOME" state of TRACK WRITE MODE. NORMAL MODE is indicated by a solid lit indicator above the HOME button.

7.3.1 TRACK STEP INDICATORS

The current TRACK STEP is indicated on the STEP BUTTONS & BUTTON 1-4 LED's. The indicators light solid to show the current

TRACK STEP whenever the NEXT or BACK button is held down. They are arranged as (4) groups of (16) track steps.

The BUTTON 1-4 LED's signify the TRACK STEP group.

 BUTTON 1 LED = 1st group of 16 track steps (steps 1-16)  BUTTON 2 LED = 2nd group of 16 track steps (steps 17-32)  BUTTON 3 LED = 3rd group of 16 track steps (steps 33-48)  BUTTON 4 LED = 4th group of 16 track steps (steps 49-64)

The STEP BUTTON LED's signify the track steps (1-16) within the current group.

For example, below indicates TRACK STEP 14:

...and below indicates TRACK STEP 64:

7.3 NORMAL MODE

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7.3.2 LAST TRACK STEP

The last TRACK STEP is indicated by the [TIME LED] being lit solid when the NEXT or BACK button is held down:

7.3.3 TRACK CLEAR, COPY & PASTE

To clear the current selected track press [FUNCTION] + [CEAR].

This sets each track step to PATTERN 1 of the corresponding bank, with no transpositions, one repeat per track step, and a track length of (64) steps.

A track can be copied from one location to another. To copy a track select the first track with the selector.

Press [FUNCTION] + [COPY] to copy the current track to temporary memory.

7.3.4.1 SELECT PATTERN

To write the first TRACK STEP select a pattern from one of the two pattern groups available for the current track. Pattern selection is described in section 4.3.

7.3.4.2 TRANSPOSE

Track steps can be transposed by semitones and an octave up or down.

To transpose the current track step up or down one octave press [PITCH] + [UP]/[DOWN]. When the transpose is selected the corresponding LED indicator will light up while the [PITCH] button is held.

To transpose a track step by semitones press the [PITCH] and one of the [BUTTON KEYS] to enter the transpose amount. The transpose amount is relative to [BUTTON KEY C], where C corresponds to the root pattern (no transpose). For example, to transpose a pattern by a 5th (seven semitones) press [PITCH] + [BUTTON KEY G].

Next, select the track to paste to. For example, TRACK VII:

Next press [FUNCTION] + [PASTE] to paste to TRACK VII.

7.3.4 WRITING A TRACK

A track can be written with the sequencer running. To begin a new TRACK press HOME to set the sequence to NORMAL MODE and reset the track to TRACK STEP 1.

Track step transpose settings are not saved with patterns, so a single

pattern can be used with different track step transpose settings to create a musical sequencer from a single pattern.

7.3.4.3 ADD REPEATS

To add repeats press [TIME] + STEP BUTTON 1-16. For example, to add (4) repeats to the current track step press [TIME] + STEP

BUTTON 4.

7.3.4.4 PREVIOUS & NEXT STEP

Track steps are not advanced automatically. Once finished selecting the pattern, repeats, and transpose settings for a track step use the

BACK and NEXT buttons to proceed to the previous or next step.

Pressing HOME will always return the track to TRACK STEP 1.

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7.3.4.5 LAST STEP

To set the last track step press [TIME] while on any track step. This track step will now be the last track step..

When the last track step is set, the [TIME LED] will light when the last step is reached. For example, if the last track step is track step 16 the

[TIME LED] will light when the NEXT or BACK button is pressed

and held on track step 16.

TRACK WRITE MODE is for editing tracks, not for playing back

tracks. When in TRACK WRITE MODE the current track step loops for editing. To play back a track TRACK PLAY MODE is used.

7.4 REALTIME MODE

In REALTIME MODE track steps can be manipulated realtime by overriding transpose, accent, slide, and mod env. settings.

7.4.1 REALTIME ACCENT & SLIDE

Accent and Slide can be played to trigger accents and slides.

To override pattern step data with accents and/or slides, press [PITCH] + [ACCENT] / [SLIDE]. For example, to force a pattern to accent steps press and hold [PITCH] + [ACCENT].

Accent and Slide can also be played realtime to mute accents and slides.

To override pattern step data and mute accents and/or slides, press

[FUNCTION] + [PITCH] + [ACCENT] / [SLIDE] . For example, to force a

pattern to mute accents press and hold [FUNCTION] + [PITCH] +

[ACCENT].

7.4.2 REALTIME MOD ENV

The modulation envelope can be triggered in realtime by pressing [PITCH] + [ENV]. Each time the button combination is pressed the modulation envelope will be triggered.

To mute modulation envelope triggers to prevent it from being triggered press [FUNCTION] + [PITCH] + [ENV].

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7.4.3 REALTIME MUTE

Rests can be played realtime to override the pattern time data. This selectively mutes the pattern. This is done by pressing REST .

7.5 TRACK SYSEX DUMP

The track data of the track copy buffer can be dumped over MIDI as system exclusive information. This allows tracks to be backed up to a computer for storage. Track dumps can be sent and received while the sequencer is running.

7.5.1 TRANSMIT

To transmit a specific track, it should first be copied to the track copy buffer using the track copy function as described in section 7.3.3. Once the track is copied make sure the receiving MIDI device is setup to listen for the SYSEX dump. Press [FUNCTION] + [DUMP] to initiate the dump.

7.5.2 RECEIVE

Once the external MIDI device is setup press [FUNCTION] + [DUMP] to initiate the dump. When a SYSEX track dump is received over MIDI it is placed into the track copy buffer and must be pasted into a destination track location as described in section 7.3.3.

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8 TRACK PLAY MODE

TRACK PLAY MODE is used to play back programmed tracks without

the ability to destructively edit them.

8.1 OVERVIEW

TRACK PLAY MODE does not allow editing of pattern or track step parameters. Below is a simple graphical representation of the basic workflow of TRACK PLAY MODE:

8.4 REALTIME MODE

In REALTIME MODE track steps can be manipulated realtime by overriding transpose, accent, slide, and mod env. settings.

8.4.1 REALTIME ACCENT & SLIDE

Accent and Slide can be played to trigger accents and slides.

To override pattern step data with accents and/or slides, press [PITCH] + [ACCENT] / [SLIDE]. For example, to force a pattern to accent steps press and hold [PITCH] + [ACCENT].

Accent and Slide can also be played realtime to mute accents and slides.

To override pattern step data and mute accents and/or slides, press

[FUNCTION] + [PITCH] + [ACCENT] / [SLIDE] . For example, to force a

pattern to mute accents press and hold [FUNCTION] + [PITCH] +

[ACCENT].

8.2 SELECTING TRACKS

Select one of the (7) TRACKS to write to using the TRACK / PATT. BANK selector.

8.3 NORMAL MODE

NORMAL MODE is the only (sub) mode with TRACK PLAY MODE. Simply press RUN to play a track.

8.3.1 TRACK STEP INDICATORS

The current track step can be viewed on the STEP BUTTON & BUTTON 1-4 LED's as described in section 7.3.1.

8.4.2 REALTIME MOD ENV

The modulation envelope can be triggered in realtime by pressing [PITCH] + [ENV]. Each time the button combination is pressed the modulation envelope will be triggered.

To mute modulation envelope triggers to prevent it from being triggered press [FUNCTION] + [PITCH] + [ENV].

8.4.3 REALTIME MUTE

Rests can be played realtime to override the pattern time data. This selectively mutes the pattern. This is done by pressing REST .

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9 MIDI PLAY

The Avalon can be used as a MIDI sound module. This allows the internal synthesizer to be sequenced or played as a traditional monosynth from an external MIDI device.

9.1 STOP THE SEQUENCER

In order to play the Avalon as a MIDI sound module the sequencer must be stopped.

9.2 SET MIDI INPUT CHANNEL

Set the MIDI Input Channel as described in section 10.1.3.

9.3 DISABLE MIDI SYNC

In order to play the Avalon as a MIDI sound module MIDI SYNC must be disabled as described in section 10.1.1.

9.4 MIDI RECEIVE PARAMETERS

The Avalon receives the MIDI parameters listed below:

1) Note On / Velocity / Slide

2) Filter Cutoff

3) Modulation Envelope Trigger

9.4.1 NOTE ON / ACCENT/ SLIDE

Note Range: 18-75 (F#0 to D#5) Velocity Range:

 Accent Off = 0-63  Accent On = 64-127

Slide: Overlapping Notes

There are only on/off states for accent... accents are triggered with a

note on velocity value of 64-127. .

9.4.2 FILTER CUTOFF

Controller Number: 74 Controller Value: 0-127

9.4.3 MODULATION ENVELOPE TRIGGER

There are (2) ways to trigger the modulation envelope.

9.4.3.1 MIDI NOTE EVENT

The Avalon will respond to MIDI NOTE 0 to trigger the modulation envelope. This is note C-4 and is rarely used. This is the easiest and preferred method to trigger the envelope. Hardware controllers can assign keys or buttons to send MIDI Note events.

9.4.3.2 MIDI CC#80

MIDI CC#80 messages can also be used to trigger the envelope.

Controller Number: 80 Controller Value: 0-127

 Mod Env Off = 0-63  Mod Env On = 64-127

There are only on/off states for MOD ENV. When using MIDI CC#80 the envelope is triggered with a controller value of 64-127. To retrigger the envelope the trigger must be reset by sending a controller value of 0-63. If controlling from a hardware midi controller it may be mapped to a button set to momentary mode (non-latching) using parameter values 0 & 127).

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10 CONFIGURATION MODE

Configuration mode is used for setting the following system parameters:

1) Sync Input

2) Sync Output

3) MIDI In Ch

4) MIDI Out Ch

5) USB MIDI

6) LED Dimming

7) Dump Machine State

8) Dump Pattern Bank

9) OS Version

10.1 ENTER CONFIG MODE

To enter configuration mode press [FUNCTION] + HOME (the buttons can be pressed in either order). When configuration mode is

entered the [PITCH LED] and [TIME LED] will blink.

Configuration mode can be entered and parameters modified while

the sequencer is running.

10.1.1 SYNC INPUT

The sequencer can be controlled via Internal clock, MIDI clock, or DINSync. To set the SYNC IN source press SYNC IN + STEP BUTTON 1-3. The three sync input options are indicated by the text below.

 STEP BUTTON 1 = Internal Clock  STEP BUTTON 2 = MIDI Clock (default)  STEP BUTTON 3 = DINSync

10.1.1.1 MIDI SYNC IN BEHAVIOR

When MIDI Sync is enabled the Avalon will automatically begin playback when a MIDI start or continue message is received. The sequencer tempo will lock to incoming MIDI clock messages after receiving a MIDI start message. When a MIDI stop message is received, the Avalon will revert back to internal clock.

The internal clock generator always runs independently, regardless of the MIDI sync setting, enabling the sequencer to be started by pressing the RUN button, even when being controlled from external MIDI.

If a MIDI start is received after the internal clock is started, the Avalon will automatically switch to MIDI sync, and then back to internal clock when MIDI stop is received without stopping the sequencer. A subsequent MIDI start will restart the current pattern at the first step, allowing the sequencer to continue uninterrupted playback while remaining in sync. This is very useful for live performance.

The Avalon merges MIDI Clock data via DIN and USB (if USB-MIDI is enabled). The Avalon will sync to the first MIDI clock it receives. For example, if MIDI Clock is received over DIN-MIDI (first) clock messages will be filtered from USB-MIDI. If DIN MIDI Clock is stopped the Avalon will dynamically switch to USB-MIDI clock if received.

10.1.2 SYNC OUTPUT

The sequence can output MIDI and DINSync clock. DINSync is always enabled. MIDI clock can be turned on and off.

 To enable MIDI CLK OUT press SYNC OUT + STEP BUTTON 2

so that the indicator is lit.

10.1.3 MIDI INPUT CHANNEL

To set the MIDI Input channel press INPUT CH + STEP BUTTON 1-16. For example, to set the MIDI input channel to channel 3 press INPUT

CH + STEP BUTTON 3.

10.1. 4 MIDI OUTPUT CHANNEL

To set the MIDI Output channel press OUTPUT CH + STEP BUTTON

1-16.

10.1.5 USB MIDI

The Avalon is a class compliant USB device. When plugged into a USB host the Avalon will show up as AVALON MIDI.

To enable USB MIDI press USB MIDI. The indicator will light to show that USB MIDI is enabled. Pressing the button again will disable USB MIDI and the indicator will go off.

The Avalon will be discovered by the host computer regardless of

whether USB-MIDI is enabled.

10.1.6 LED DIMMING

The STEP BUTTON indicators can be varied in brightness by pressing the buttons directly. STEP BUTTON 1 is the dimmest, STEP BUTTON 16 is the brightest.

When a new brightness is selected the STEP BUTTON LED's will light to the corresponding brightness.

The LED indicators below the STEP BUTTONS LED's do not have as

many levels of brightness as the STEP BUTTON LED's. This is due to a design limitation of the original TB-303-based design.

10.1.7 DUMP MACHINE STATE

To send or receive a SysEx dump of the entire contents of memory including patterns, songs, and configuration settings press

[SYSTEM].

Restoring an Avalon System dump will overwrite all contents of

memory including all patterns, songs, and configuration settings.

USB-MIDI Out supersedes DIN-MIDI Out for SysEx data. If it is desired to send Pattern Bank Dumps via DIN-MIDI, USB-MIDI should be disabled as described in section 10.5.1.

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10.1.8 DUMP PATTERN BANK

To send or receive a SysEx dump press [DUMP].

10.1.8.1 PATTERN BANK SEND

When a Bank dump is initiated the currently selected bank is sent via MIDI Out.

USB-MIDI Out supersedes DIN-MIDI Out for SysEx data. If it is desired

to send Pattern Bank Dumps via DIN-MIDI, USB-MIDI should be disabled as described in section 10.5.1.

10.1.8.2 PATTERN BANK RECEIVE

Pattern banks are received to the same bank as initialized saved from, not the currently selected Bank!

For example, if you backup pattern Bank 1 and then restored the bank via SysEx dump, the bank is always received and written to Bank 1, not necessarily the currently selected bank.

10.1.9 MIDI PROGRAM CHANGE

To enable MIDI Program Changes press [RANDOM]. When enabled the [RANDOM LED] will light. To disable press [RANDOM] until the LED toggles off.

Patterns can be selected using MIDI program change messages. As described in section 4.3, there are 16 patterns per Bank organized as two groups of eight patterns each. In terms of MIDI program change numbers, the 16 patterns are recognized as programs 1-16. All other Program Change numbers are ignored. It is not possible to select Pattern Banks via Program Change.

Make sure to set the same MIDI Input channel for the Avalon and

the external device.

Pattern can also be configured to send MIDI program change messages when patterns are changed. This allows a pattern to change the selected patch on a synthesizer or drum machine automatically. The messages will be sent on the MIDI channel set for MIDI Output.

USB-MIDI Out supersedes DIN-MIDI Out. If it is desired to send MIDI

Program Change via DIN-MIDI, USB-MIDI should be disabled as described in section 10.5.1.

10.1.10 OS VERSION

The OS version is displayed while pressing and holding [SECTION]. The major version number is shown by a bright STEP BUTTON INDICATOR. The minor version number is shown by a dim STEP BUTTON

INDICATOR.

10.2 EXIT CONFIG MODE

To exit configuration mode press HOME or [FUNCTION].

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11 INPUTS & OUTPUTS

The Avalon includes numerous audio and CV / Gate inputs & outputs.

11.1 AUDIO I/O

The audio I/O consists of 1/4" and 1/8" jacks on the rear panel. The 1/8" audio jacks are differentiated from the 1/8" CV/Gate I/O jacks in two ways. First, the text labels for the audio I/O on the top and rear panels of the unit are surrounded by a box. Second, the audio I/O direction indicators are shown in color (red or blue).

MAIN OUT is a 1/4" mono jack and is the main output.

PHONES is a 1/4" stereo jack and is the headphone output.

SAW & SQR are buffered +/-5V outputs of the saw and square VCO

waveforms.

EXT IN is an external input to the filter. It accepts a wide range of signal levels as it has an internal preamp stage. When the external input is used the sub oscillator is bypassed.

VCA OUT is the output from the VCA before the mixer stage and the main out. This output can be used to feed the signal back to the filter input or to external hardware, or to simply bypass the internal mixer stage to improve performance by reducing noise and distortion.

11.2 CV & GATE I/O

The numerous CV & Gate 1/8" jacks are used for interfacing the Avalon with external hardware.

CV & GATE INPUTS The GATE IN 1/8" jack allows other analog devices to trigger the Avalon's envelopes. The CV IN 1/8" jack allows control of the pitch of the Avalon oscillators from an external source. When a CV input is plugged into the jack the internal sequencer pitch CV is bypassed.

GATE IN is a positive 0-5V gate. CV IN is 1V/octave with a 0-5.333V range.

2V = C3 (65.4Hz)

CV & GATE OUTPUTS are used for sending the Avalon's sequencer/keyboard CV & GATE to external analog gear.

GATE OUT is a positive 0-12V gate. CV OUT is 1V/octave with a 0- 5V range.

FILT CV is an input to the filter frequency control input and is used for modulating the Avalon filter(s) from external gear.

FILT CV is 1V/octave.

The Avalon Filter CV input is non-standard due the nature of the TB-

303 compatibility. The resting voltage of the filter control input is 3.28V. See Appendix B for details.

SWEEP is short for accent sweep out and is a control voltage output that gives a normalized and amplified copy of the accent sweep signal. This is the short burst (wow) envelope that is derived from the filter envelope on accented notes. This signal is 0-5V max.

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12 SPECIFICATIONS

ANALOG SYNTHESIZER

Main Oscillator

 Waveform: Saw & Square  Range: 5 Octaves

Sub Oscillator

 Waveform: Saw, Triangle, & Square  Range: (-1) and (-2) Octaves relative

Oscillator Control

 Tune: +/-500 Cents  Slide Time: (4) Settings (per step)

Filter A/B (common controls)

 Cutoff Frequency  Resonance  Filter Envelope Depth (Env Mod)  Filter Tracking  Modulation Envelope Depth

Filter B (additional control)

 Filter B Mode

Filter Envelope

 Decay Time  Accent Decay Time  Accent Depth

Modulation Envelope

 Attack Time  Decay Time  Filter Modulation Depth (bi-polar)  VCA Modulation Depth (bi-polar)

VCA Envelope

 Decay Time

CONNECTIONS

Power: DC6V/2A

Audio Inputs & Outputs

 Main Output  Headphone Output  Saw Output  Square Output  Filter Input  Filter/Amp Output

Control Inputs & Outputs

 Gate/CV In  Gate/CV Out  Filter CV In  Accent Sweep Out  USB  MIDI In & Out  DINSync In & Out

DIGITAL SEQUENCER

Pattern Details

 112 Patterns (Transferable via MIDI/USB)  Pattern Length = 64 steps maximum  1 Step = 1/4, 1/8, 1/16, 1/32 (includes triplet modes)  Pattern Copy, Paste, Clear  Shuffle - up to 8 stages  Pattern Directions: Forward, Reverse, Pendulum, Random  Skip Steps  Slide Times: 50ms, 100ms (303), 400ms, 2s (per step)  Arpeggiator - Realtime & Record modes

Pattern Memorized Content

 Per Step: Note Length, Pitch, Accent, Slide, Env Trig,  Slide Time, Filter CV, Gate Length  Per Pattern: Time Signature, Length, Direction, Shuffle,  Rotate, Filter B Mode

Pattern Write Modes

 Normal Mode  Record Mode  Pitch & Time Step Entry Mode (303)

Tracks Details

 7 Tracks (Transferable via USB/MIDI)  64 Track Steps per track  Transpose & Repeats per Track Step  Copy, Paste, Clear, Dump  Realtime Accent, Slide, Env Trg, Rest

Track Memorized Content

 Order of Patterns  Transposition per Track Step  Repeats per Track Step  Cue (Loop) Points

Sequencer Primary Controls

 Tempo: 40~300BPM  Primary Modes: Pattern Play/Write, Track Play/Write  Chromatic Keyboard  Pattern/Bank Select Buttons  Step LED Buttons  Function (Secondary) Menu  Run/Stop

DIMENSIONS

 346mm (13.62")W x 172mm (6.77")D x 45mm (1.77”)H  352mm (13.86")W x 176mm (6.93")D x 65mm (2.56”)H w/ Hardware &

Feet:

 Weight: 5.2lbs (2.36kg)

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13 TB-303 SETTINGS

13.1 ANALOG VOICE

The analog voice is backwards compatible with the TB-303. The additional features can be viewed as a layer on top of the original TB303 subset of controls. To limit the Avalon sound capabilities to that of the TB-303 use the settings as shown above and described below:

13.1.1 OSCILLATORS

The sub oscillator should not be used. Set the SUB/INPUT control to the minimum setting.

13.1.2 FILTER

If the exact CUTOFF range of the TB-303 is desired see Appendix A for adjustment options. The Avalon ships with default settings that give an extended range.

TRACKING should be set the minimum (off) setting as it is not found on the TB-303. IA

13.1.3 FILTER ENVELOPE

If the exact range of ENV MOD (filter envelope modulation) is desired see Appendix A for adjustment options. The Avalon ships with default settings that allow envelope modulation to be turned off completely when the control is a the minimum setting.

Set the ACC DECAY control to minimum as this corresponds to the fixed setting of the TB-303.

13.1.4 VCA ENVELOPE

The TB-303 has a fixed VCA Decay time of 3s. This is equivalent to the 3 o'clock position of the VCA DECAY control.

13.1.5 MODULATION ENVELOPE

The modulation envelope should not be used. Set the VCF DEPTH and VCA DEPTH controls to the center-off position.

13.2 SEQUENCER

To limit the sequencer to TB-303 behavior you'll have to ignore several pattern write modes and the additional pattern step attributes.

13.2.1 PATTERN WRITE MODES

To program the sequencer like the TB -303 use PITCH & TIME STEP ENTRY MODES as described in section 5.3. You will still need to set the pattern length as described in section 5.2.3.1.

The TB-303 does not include the following pattern write modes:

 Normal Mode  Realtime Mode  Record Mode

13.2.2 PATTERN MODIFIERS

Do not use the following pattern modifiers (the default settings correspond to the TB-303):

 Pattern Length (use 16 steps max)  Pattern Direction  Shuffle  Pattern Rotate  Pattern Randomize  Filter B Mode

13.2.3 PATTERN STEP ATTRIBUTES

Do not use the following step attributes (the default settings correspond to the TB-303):

 Modulation Envelope Triggers  Slide Time  Filter CV Offset  Gate Length  Active Steps

14 BLOCK DIAGRAM

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37 AVALON - Reference Manual

APPENDIX A - CALIBRATION

1 VCO CALIBRATION

The oscillator can be calibrated through the two holes in the bottom of the unit:

To enter CALIBRATION MODE hold PATTERN BUTTON and power on the unit.

Once booted into calibration mode the keyboard and transpose buttons are active so the synth can be played manually.

1. Enter CALIBRATION MODE as shown above.

2. Make sure the MAIN OUT is plugged in to your sound system so you can hear the audio output.

3. Set the VCA DEPTH control for the Modulation Envelope to the full counterclockwise setting. This will allow the synth to drone so you can hear the audio output continuously without having to retrigger notes.

4. Set TUNE to center position.

5. Using a frequency counter or tuner monitor the SAW OUTPUT from the 1/8" jack on the rear of the unit.

6. Press KEY C . You will hear note C3. This is the root note that will be calibrated for 65.4Hz. Adjust the TUNE trimmer until the frequency is close to 65.4Hz. This frequency doesn't have to be perfect the first time you set it as you will have to repeat the next few steps several times to converge to the final tuning.

7. Press KEY C'. You will hear note C4. This is the higher octave pitch (130.8Hz) that will be used for adjusting the scale. Adjust the SCALE trimmer for 130.8Hz.

8. When the SCALE trimmer in step 7 is adjusted it changes the base C3 frequency in step 6, so steps 6 & 7 will need to be repeated several times until the frequency and scale are dialed in.

As an alternative to using a frequency counter or tuner you can use a simple comparison tone from another device (most likely from software or a

digital device) to tune the Avalon oscillator against. In this case you can listen to the 'beating' of the two tones. If using this method it is still beneficial to use the SAW OUTPUT versus the MAIN OUT as it is a direct output form the oscillator (pre-filter).

The Avalon is usually calibrated at a one octave interval like the TB-303 as it is a bassline synth with limited range. The oscillator will go flat at higher octaves. The Avalon uses the same 6bit R-2R DAC and oscillator design as the TB-303 and does not use any digital feedback to enhance the scaling. In some cases it may be desirable to calibrate the Avalon at a two octave interval to get better tuning at higher octaves.

Use only the included trimmer tool or equivalent or the trimmers will likely be damaged. Suitable replacements are Bourns Part # H-90 or Vishay Part # ACCTRITOB308. These are available from your electronics supplier or from our online store.

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INTERNAL FILTER ADJUSTMENTS

These adjustments should only be performed by a qualified technician.

There are (3) internal adjustments relating to the filter. These adjustments allow the filter controls to retain the same behavior as the TB-303 controls or to allow an extended range. To access these switches the bottom cover of the synth needs to be removed. To remove it unscrew the (6) M3 metric screws. A Phillips #2 JIS (Japanese industrial standard) screwdriver should be used.

Once the bottom cover is removed the DIP switch can be viewed through the hole in the PCB.

The ON position for these DIP switches is towards the top of the unit (all switches in the graphic above are in the ON position).

a) SWITCH 1: CUTOFF low end range. This switch sets the low end of the cutoff range allowed by the CUTOFF knob. The TB-303 low cutoff range is limited. This switch allows for extended range.

 OFF: TB-303 setting (minimal range)  ON: Extended range (*default)

b) SWITCH 2: ENV MOD minimum depth. This switch sets the ENV MOD depth when the control is at the minimum position. The TB-303 doesn't allow the filter envelope modulation to be turned all the way off, and there's still some modulation when the control is at the minimum setting. This switch allows for ENV MOD to extend to "off" when the ENV MOD knob is at its minimum setting.

 OFF: ENV MOD goes to "off" (*default)  ON: TB-303 range

c) SWITCH 3: ENV MOD maximum amount. This switch sets the maximum filter envelope modulation amount when the control is at the maximum setting. When enabled the maximum modulation depth is doubled versus the default setting.

 OFF: TB-303 setting (*default)  ON: Extended amount

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APPENDIX B - FILTER & VCA BEHAVIOR

1 FILTER CONTROL INPUT BEHAVIOR

Because the Avalon filter control input is based on the TB-303, and the TB-303 is a battery powered 'single supply' instrument, the resting state of the filter control input is set to a positive voltage in order to allow for negative modulation. This value is 3.28V. Because of this, a control voltage input less than 3.28V will decrease the filter cutoff frequency and an input greater than 3.28V will increase the cutoff frequency. The control input can be viewed as a standard 1V/octave input simply offset by 3.28V.

1.1 EFFECTS ON FILTER ENVELOPE

If you pay particular attention to the way the filter envelope effects the filter throughout the range of the ENV MOD control you may notice some peculiar behavior. If you have a more experimental approach and prefer to find good sounds and settings without particular attention to what's going on behind the scenes you may not want to read this. If you are more analytical and wanted to understand the machine behavior and what the adjustments are doing you may be interested in what follows:

You will notice that for increasing ENV MOD amount the filter decays to a lower frequency, so for increasing ENV MOD the control voltage has a greater range but also has a progressively negative offset. The graph below shows what's happening. As the ENV MOD amount is reduced the control voltage converges towards the filter resting voltage of 3.28V. The reason for this is that the filter envelope is a 0-10V control voltage, but the ENV MOD control is referenced to the filter resting voltage, so the less ENV MOD the more the filter envelope converges to the reference.

1.2 EFFECTS ON MODULATION ENVELOPE

The control voltage from the MODULATION ENVELOPE to the filter is progressively offset in the same way as ENV MOD above. This allows for a wider range of complex modulation. As the VCF DEPTH amount is decreased from (+) modulation towards the center off position the control voltage converges to 3.28V. Likewise, as the VCF DEPTH amount is decreased from (-) modulation towards the center off position the control voltage also converges to 3.28V.

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41 AVALON - Reference Manual

2 ACCENT BEHAVIOR

When an accent has been programmed (or played) an additional control voltage (envelope) is sent to the filter and final amplifier (VCA). A slewed copy of the filter envelope is sent to the filter control input. This is responsible for the characteristic wow sounds you can get with accented notes. The character of this slewed version also varies with the setting of the RESONANCE control, as increasing resonance also increases the slew of this control voltage. The plot below shows an example of this accent sweep envelope at maximum accent setting for minimum, mid, and max setting of the resonance control.

3 MODULATION ENVELOPE VCA DEPTH

VCA DEPTH has been designed with a progressive voltage offset for negative (-) modulation amounts. When the control is rotated counter- clockwise for (-) modulation a positive offset is applied to the VCA control input. For example, when VCA Depth is set to a negative amount and the modulation envelope is not triggered, the VCA will remain open (drone). The plot below shows the behavior of (-) modulation for (4) settings of negative VCA DEPTH.

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3 VCA FREQUENCY RESPONSE

The switch selects the low frequency response of the audio signal to the VCA. When the switch is in the 'out' position the frequency response rolls off at 70Hz. When the switch is pushed to the 'in' position the frequency response extends down below 30Hz.

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APPENDIX C - AVALON VS. TB-303 SEQUENCER

1 AVALON VS. TB-303 PATTERN STRUCTURE

The pattern structure of the Avalon and TB-303 differs in the way that pitch & time data are stored. The Avalon saves pitch & time attributes together as a pattern step. The TB-303 has independent pitch and time steps for each pattern, they are not saved 1-to-1 as a pattern step.

1.1 AVALON PATTERN STRUCTURE

As shown below, pitch & time attributes are saved together as a pattern step.

Every time the pattern step is advanced both pitch & time attributes are advanced, hence a series of pitch & time attributes always correspond 1-to1 to define a pattern step.

Pattern steps correspond directly to the step button indicators on the control surface of the Avalon:

1.2 TB-303 PATTERN STRUCTURE

TB-303 pitch and time attributes are always programmed separately. A pattern consists of independent sequences of pitch steps and time steps. Pitch step attributes are only advanced when a note event occurs in the sequence of time steps. As a result, the series of pitch step attributes does not always correspond 1-to-1 with the series of time steps. Specifically, if a tie or rest is programmed on a time step, the pitch step is not advanced. This is shown in the graphic below - Time Step 3 does not have a note event programmed, it's a tie/rest, so the pitch step is not advanced.

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2 STEP BUTTONS

The Avalon has several pattern write modes as detailed in sections 5.2 - 5.5. All of these pattern write modes make use of the STEP BUTTONS. This is a major addition to the traditional TB-303 style step sequencer, as these button indicators are used for parameter entry and visual feedback. The STEP BUTTONS correspond 1-to-1 with the pattern steps.

In PITCH ENTRY MODE, when a pitch is entered, the step advances automatically like the TB-303. In addition, the STEP BUTTONS also show the current pattern step as it automatically advances.

In TIME ENTRY MODE, when a time attribute is entered, the step advances automatically. In addition, the STEP BUTTONS also show the current pattern step as it automatically advances. The pattern step advances regardless of whether the time attribute is a note event, tie, or rest.

3 WHERE IS TAP MODE?

TAP MODE is an alternative method in the TB-303 for programming time steps by playing time steps realtime while the sequencer is running. TAP MODE is superseded by RECORD MODE in the Avalon. RECORD MODE allows both pitch and time information to be programmed realtime via the control surface or from an external MIDI device.

APPENDIX D - MIDI IMPLEMENTATION

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46 AVALON - Reference Manual

Abstrakt Instruments

725 5th St Suite 4B

Hermosa Beach CA 90254

www.abstraktinstruments.com

00193-003 09-2016

USA

47 AVALON - Reference Manual

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