ALESIS ANDROMEDA A6 User Manual
1 6 - V O I C E R E A L A N A L O G S Y N T H E S I Z E R
REFERENCE
MANUAL
For Software Version 1.40
Your shipping carton should contain the
following items:
1. Andromeda A6 synthesizer
2. AC power cable
3. Sustain Pedal
4. Reference Manual
If anything is missing, please contact your dealer or Alesis immediately.
Alesis contact information:
Alesis Studio Electronics, Inc.
Los Angeles
USA
E-Mail: support@alesis.com
Website: http://www.alesis.com
Alesis Andromeda A6TM Reference Manual
Revision 1.0 by Dave Bertovic
Revision 1.1 by Brian R. Shim
© Copyright 2001, Alesis Studio Electronics, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or
in part is prohibited. “A6”, “QCard” and “FreeLoader” are trademarks of Alesis Studio
Electronics, Inc.
ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL 1
2ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL
Contents
CONTENTS
Important Safety Instructions ....................................................................................7
Instructions to the User (FCC Notice) ............................................................................................11
CE Declaration of Conformity .........................................................................................................13
Introduction ................................................................................................................ 15
How to Use this Manual....................................................................................................................16
Typographic Conventions..................................................................................................17
Key Terminology ................................................................................................................................18
Chapter 1: Getting Started ........................................................................................ 21
What You’ll Need, Unpacking, Set Up, Power .............................................................................21
Audio Connections and Pedals........................................................................................................22
MIDI Connections...............................................................................................................................23
Quick Start............................................................................................................................................26
Chapter 2: Playing the A6 .........................................................................................29
A Brief Tour of the Front Panel........................................................................................................30
How Functions are Grouped............................................................................................. 30
Interacting with the Display .............................................................................................................32
Selecting Programs and Mixes .........................................................................................................38
PROGRAM Mode Parameters...........................................................................................39
MIX Mode Parameters........................................................................................................ 39
Storing Edited Programs and Mixes ...............................................................................................43
Setting Up Splits and Layers ............................................................................................................47
Using Global Mode.............................................................................................................................49
GLOBAL Mode Parameters...............................................................................................49
Master Controls................................................................................................................................... 52
Volume...................................................................................................................................52
Tune........................................................................................................................................ 52
The Keyboard and Keyboard Modes.............................................................................................. 54
Performance Features (KBD MODE, UNISON X, DETUNE) .....................................55
Portamento............................................................................................................................ 59
The Performance Wheels and Ribbon Controller.........................................................................65
Programming the Wheels and Ribbon.............................................................................66
Pedals and Footswitches ....................................................................................................68
The CLOCK Section............................................................................................................................69
Clock Parameters .................................................................................................................70
Sequencer ..............................................................................................................................71
Arpeggiator...........................................................................................................................79
Chapter 3: Basics of Analog Synthesis ................................................................... 81
An Overview of Synthesis.................................................................................................................81
Analog and Digital Technologies .....................................................................................81
A Little History ....................................................................................................................81
A Little Theory ...................................................................................................................................82
Waveforms............................................................................................................................ 82
Fundamentals and Harmonics.......................................................................................... 83
Sound Dynamics................................................................................................................................. 84
LFOs .......................................................................................................................................87
Components of an Analog Synthesizer ..........................................................................................88
ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL 3
Contents
Chapter 4: Overview of the Andromeda A6 ..........................................................93
A Few Basic Concepts........................................................................................................................93
A6 Function List..................................................................................................................................95
A6 Functions At-a-Glance ................................................................................................................. 97
MIDI Overview .................................................................................................................................102
Chapter 5: Oscillators and Filters...........................................................................103
Oscillators...........................................................................................................................................103
Oscillator Parameter Descriptions..................................................................................104
VCO Modulation ...............................................................................................................107
Filters...................................................................................................................................................116
What Filters Do ..................................................................................................................116
How Filters Are Designed................................................................................................117
How Filters Work ..............................................................................................................122
Filter Parameter Descriptions..........................................................................................127
Chapter 6: Modulation and Envelopes ................................................................. 131
Modulation.........................................................................................................................................131
Background.........................................................................................................................131
Modulation Principles ......................................................................................................131
Hardware and Software Modulation, Default Mod Paths ........................................133
Envelopes ...........................................................................................................................................134
Envelope Properties ..........................................................................................................134
Envelope Parameter Descriptions ..................................................................................135
TIME Page Parameters......................................................................................................137
SHAPE: Selecting the Stage Slope .................................................................................139
LEVEL Page Parameters .................................................................................................. 141
TRIG Page Parameters .....................................................................................................142
Envelope Modes (Norm 1 & 2, Freerun, Susrel) ..........................................................144
Envelope Modulation Triggering (MODTRG).............................................................153
How Modulation Triggering Works ............................................................................. 155
DYN Page Parameters ......................................................................................................158
LOOP Page Parameters ....................................................................................................160
MOD Pages .........................................................................................................................164
Envelope Examples ...........................................................................................................165
Chapter 7: LFOs, Sample & Hold and Process..................................................... 171
Low Frequency Oscillators .............................................................................................................171
LFO Parameter Descriptions ...........................................................................................171
WAVE Page ........................................................................................................................172
TRIG Page ...........................................................................................................................175
SYNC Page ..........................................................................................................................176
MOD Page...........................................................................................................................176
Using LFOs as a Trigger Source......................................................................................176
Sample and Hold ..............................................................................................................................177
PROCESS Module.............................................................................................................................179
Tracking Generator (TGEN) ............................................................................................179
Track Gen Level and Track Gen Step.............................................................................179
Tracking Generator Parameter Descriptions................................................................180
Chapter 8: The A6 Mixing System ........................................................................183
Pre Filter Mix/Post Filter Mix ........................................................................................................183
Pre Filter Mix Overview ..................................................................................................................183
Pre Filter Mix Operation..................................................................................................................184
OSC and SUB OSC Controls............................................................................................184
RING MOD Control ..........................................................................................................184
NOISE/EXTERNAL Control...........................................................................................185
Signal Routing through the Filters .................................................................................187
4ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL
Contents
Post Filter Mix Overview ................................................................................................................189
Post Filter Mix Operation................................................................................................................189
Voice Mix.............................................................................................................................190
MAIN and AUX outputs..................................................................................................190
Setting Levels in Mix Mode .............................................................................................190
Individual VOICE OUTPUT............................................................................................190
Chapter 9: Custom Modulations ............................................................................. 191
MOD Functions Overview..............................................................................................................191
Avoid duplication with hard-wired mods....................................................................191
Performance control of mods ..........................................................................................192
Using the Modulation Matrix..........................................................................................192
A Few Ground Rules.........................................................................................................197
The Control Routes Section.............................................................................................................198
To change modulation amounts using the CROUTES page: ....................................198
To change the source of a Control Route: .....................................................................199
About Signal Flow in a MOD Path................................................................................................200
About Modulation Sources.............................................................................................................201
Chapter 10: Using Effects ....................................................................................... 203
Introduction .......................................................................................................................................203
Signal Flow..........................................................................................................................203
Basic Controls .....................................................................................................................203
Analog Distortion ..............................................................................................................204
Editing Digital Effects ......................................................................................................................205
To select a Digital Effects Configuration Type:............................................................205
Editing Effect Parameters................................................................................................................206
Choosing a Parameter Page ............................................................................................. 206
Changing an Individual Parameter................................................................................ 206
MOD: Modulating Effects Send/Output ......................................................................207
Tutorial: How to Edit a Reverb .....................................................................................................208
Set the Type and Audio Levels .......................................................................................208
Set the Reverb's Decay and Tone....................................................................................208
Set the Reverb Predelay....................................................................................................209
Change the Tone of the Reverb Decay...........................................................................209
Adjust the Mix....................................................................................................................210
Digital Effects Architecture.............................................................................................................211
The Signal Flow Through the Effects Section...............................................................211
Single....................................................................................................................................211
Dual Effects: Parallel .........................................................................................................212
Dual Effects: Mono ............................................................................................................213
Multi Chain.........................................................................................................................214
Configurations & Parameter Descriptions...................................................................................215
Reverbs ................................................................................................................................215
Delays...................................................................................................................................220
Pitch Effects.........................................................................................................................222
Table of Digital Effects Parameters ...............................................................................................227
Chapter 11: Mix Mode ..............................................................................................243
What is a Mix? ...................................................................................................................................243
Mix Channels vs. MIDI Channels...................................................................................243
Common Mix Settings for MIDI Sequencers...............................................................................244
To make a custom multitimbral Mix:.............................................................................244
MIDI Program Change Messages...................................................................................245
Editing Programs from Mix Mode ................................................................................................245
Mix SOLO............................................................................................................................245
ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL 5
Contents
To copy a Mix Channel from another Mix:................................................................... 245
Effects in Mix Mode..........................................................................................................................246
To set effect send levels for different Mix Channels: ..................................................246
To copy an effect from another Program or Mix: ........................................................246
Chapter 12: MIDI Functions .....................................................................................247
MIDI Basics ........................................................................................................................................247
MIDI Hardware..................................................................................................................247
MIDI Messages...................................................................................................................248
To send an individual Program or Mix out as a MIDI System Exclusive
dump:...................................................................................................................................253
To send an entire Program or Mix Bank out as a MIDI System Exclusive
dump:...................................................................................................................................254
About receiving SysEx dumps: .......................................................................................254
MIDI and the A6 Andromeda ........................................................................................................255
A6 Channel Messages: Multitimbral Sequencing....................................................... 255
Setting MIDI Parameters in Global Mode..................................................................... 256
Appendix A: Glossary ..............................................................................................259
Appendix B: Table of Mod Sources ....................................................................... 261
Appendix C: Troubleshooting .................................................................................265
The Auto Tune Display ...................................................................................................................265
How to Use the Tune Display ........................................................................................................266
Upgrading the Operating System..................................................................................................268
Troubleshooting Chart.....................................................................................................................270
Cleaning and Maintenance .............................................................................................................272
Appendix D: Specifications ..................................................................................... 273
MIDI Implementation Chart...........................................................................................................273
Specifications .....................................................................................................................................274
Appendix E: Warranty .............................................................................................275
Index ......................................................................................................................... 277
6ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL
Important Safety Instructions
IMPORTANT SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS
SAFETY SYMBOLS USED IN THIS
PRODUCT
This symbol alerts the user that there are important operating and
maintenance instructions in the literature accompanying this unit.
This symbol warns the user of uninsulated voltage within the unit
that can cause dangerous electric shocks.
PLEASE FOLLOW THESE PRECAUTIONS
WHEN USING THIS PRODUCT:
1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with a damp cloth. Do not spray any liquid cleaner onto the
faceplate, as this may damage the front panel controls or cause a dangerous
condition.
7. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves,
or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized plug on the AC power
adapter. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. The
wide blade is provided for your safety. When the provided plug does not fit
into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at
plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the
apparatus.
11. Use only attachments or accessories specified by the manufacturer.
ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL 7
Important Safety Instructions
12. Use only with a cart, stand, bracket, or table designed for use with
professional audio or music equipment. In any installation, make sure that
injury or damage will not result from cables pulling on the apparatus and its
mounting. If a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus
combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long
periods of time.
14. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when
the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as when the powersupply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have
fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture,
does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
15. This unit produces heat when operated normally. Operate in a wellventilated area.
16. 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. If you experience any hearing loss or
ringing in the ears, you should consult an audiologist.
17. WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this
apparatus to rain or moisture.
8ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL
Important Safety Instructions
INSTRUCTIONS DE SÉCURITÉ IMPORTANTES
(FRENCH)
SYMBOLES UTILISÉS DANS CE PRODUIT
Ce symbole alèrte l’utilisateur qu’il existe des instructions de
fonctionnement et de maintenance dans la documentation jointe
avec ce produit.
Ce symbole avertit l’utilisateur de la présence d’une tension non
isolée à l’intérieur de l’appareil pouvant engendrer des chocs
électriques.
VEUILLEZ SUIVRE CES PRÉCAUTIONS LORS DE
L
’UTILISATION DE L’APPAREIL:
1. Lisez ces instructions.
2. Gardez ces instructions.
3. Tenez compte de tous les avertissements.
4. Suivez toutes les instructions.
5. N’utilisez pas cet allareil à proximité de l’eau.
6. Ne nettoyez qu’avec un chiffon humide. Ne pas vaporiser de liquide nettoyant
sur l’appareil, cela pourrait abîmer les contrôles de la face avant ou engendrer
des conditions dangeureuses.
7. Installez selon les recommandations du constructeur.
8. Ne pas installer à proximilé de sources de chaleur comme radiateurs, cuisinière
ou autre appareils (don’t les amplificateurs) produisant de la chaleur.
9. Ne pas enlever la prise de terre du cordon secteur. Une prise murale avec terre
deux broches et une troisièrme reliée à la terre. Cette dernière est présente pour
votre sécurité. Si le cordon secteur ne rentre pas dans la prise de courant,
demandez à un électricien qualifié de remplacer la prise.
10. Evitez de marcher sur le cordon secteur ou de le pincer, en particulier au niveau
de la prise, et aux endroits où il sor de l’appareil.
11. N’utilisez que des accessoires spécifiés par le constructeur.
12. N’utilisez qu’avec un stand, ou table conçus pour l’utilisation d’audio
professionnel ou instruments de musique. Dans toute installation, veillez de ne
rien endommager à cause de câbles qui tirent sur des appareils et leur support.
13. Débranchez l’appareil lors d’un orage ou lorsqu’il n’est pas utilisé pendant
longtemps.
ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL 9
Important Safety Instructions
14. Faites réparer par un personnel qualifié. Une réparation est nécessaire lorsque
l’appareil a été endommagé de quelque sorte que ce soit, par exemple losrque le
cordon secteur ou la prise sont endommagés, si du liquide a coulé ou des objets
se sont introduits dans l’appareil, si celui-ci a été exposé à la pluie ou à
l’humidité, ne fonctionne pas normalement ou est tombé.
15. Cet appareil produit de la chaleur en fonctionnement normal.
16. Ce produit, utilisé avec un amplificateur et un casque ou des enceintes, est
capable de produite des niveaux sonores pouvant engendrer une perte
permanente de l’ouïe. Ne l’utilisez pas pendant longtemps à un niveau sonore
élevé ou à un niveau non confortable. Si vous remarquez une perte de l’ouïe ou
un bourdonnement dans les oreilles, consultez un spécialiste.
10 ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL
Important Safety Instructions
BEIM BENUTZEN DIESES PRODUKTES BEACHTEN
SIE BITTE DIE FOLGENDEN SICHERHEITSHINWEISE:
(GERMAN)
1. Lesen Sie die Hinweise.
2. Halten Sie sich an die Anleitung.
3. Beachten Sie alle Warnungen.
4. Beachten Sie alle Hinweise.
5. Bringen Sie das Gerät nie mit Wasser in Berührung.
6. Verwenden Sie zur Reinigung nur ein weiches Tuch. Sprühen Sie keine flüssiger
Reiniger auf die Oberfläche, dies könnte zur Beschädigung der Vorderseite
führen und auch weitere Schäden verursachen.
7. Halten Sie sich beim Aufbau des Gerätes an die Angaben des Herstellers.
8. Stellen Sie das Gerät nich in der Nähe von Heizkörpern, Heizungsklappen oder
anderen Wärmequellen (einschließlich Verstärkern) auf.
9. Verlegen Sie das Netzkabel des Gerätes niemals so, daß man darüber stolpern
kann oder daß es gequetscht wird.
10. Benutzen Sie nur das vom Hersteller empfohlene Zubehör.
11. Verwenden Sie ausschließlich Wagen, Ständer, oder Tische, die speziell für
professionelle Audio- und Musikinstrumente geeignet sind. Achten Sie immer
darauf, daß die jeweiligen Geräte sicher installiert sind, um Schäden und
Verletzungen zu vermeiden. Wenn Sie einen Rollwagen benutzen, achten Sie
darauf, das dieser nicht umkippt, um Verletzungen auszuschließen.
12. Ziehen Sie während eines Gewitters oder wenn Sie das Gerät über einen
längeren Zeitraum nicht benutzen den Netzstecher aus der Steckdose.
13. Die Wartung sollte nur durch qualifiziertes Fachpersonal erfolgen. Die Wartung
wird notwendig, wenn das Gerät beschädigt wurde oder aber das Stromkabel
oder der Stecker, Gegenstände oder Flüssigkeit in das Gerät gelangt sind, das
Gerät dem Regen oder Feuchtigkeit ausgesetzt war und deshalb nicht mehr
normal arbeitet oder heruntergefallen ist.
14. Bei normalem Betrieb des Gerätes kommt es zu Wärmeentwicklungen.
15. Dieses Produkt kann in Verbindung mit einem Verstärker und Kopfhörern oder
Lautsprechern Lautstärkepegel erzeugen, die anhaltende Gehörschäden
verursachen. Betreiben Sie es nicht über längere Zeit mit hoher Lautstärke oder
einem Pegel, der Ihnen unangenehm is. Wenn Sie ein Nachlassen des Gehörs
oder ein Klingeln in den Ohren feststellen, sollten Sie einen Ohrenarzt aufsuchen.
ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL 11
Important Safety Instructions
INSTRUCTIONS TO THE USER
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 and 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 equipment has been verified to comply with the limits for a class B computing
device, pursuant to FCC Rules. In order to maintain compliance with FCC
regulations, shielded cables must be used with this equipment. Operation with nonapproved equipment or unshielded cables is likely to result in interference to radio
and TV reception. The user is cautioned that changes and modifications made to the
equipment without the approval of manufacturer could void the user’s authority to
operate this equipment.
12 ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL
Important Safety Instructions
CE DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
Please see the Alesis website, www.alesis.com, for the CE Declaration of Conformity
ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL 13
Important Safety Instructions
14 ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL
Introduction
INTRODUCTION
There was a time when most of us thought that analog synthesis was dead. Yeah,
there were a few new analog instruments – and rather decent ones, at that – that have
come and gone over the past few years. They were glimmers of hope that the robust,
full and rich sounds of the analogs could peacefully co-exist with the digitals. I was
excited that a handful of manufacturers were still “carrying the ball” and believed
that there will always be a place in the music world for a great analog synth. But for
some reason, these instruments – as good as they are – seem to be a little lacking in
many respects.
Then I was introduced to the Andromeda A6. Simply stated, this box has more
features and music power per square inch than any other synthesizer I’ve owned.
And I’ve owned a bunch of them, starting with an obscure little monophonic
instrument called the MiniMoog
significant step in the development of musical instruments that celebrate this
technology.
The Andromeda A6 starts out with 16 of the most elaborate synthesizer voices to
date, and these voices sound absolutely wonderful. The attention to detail applied as
Alesis Engineering researched the great analog synths of the past has paid off in
producing an instrument that has the world-class analog sound, complete with every
nuance. There’s nothing “virtual” about the A6: it is a real analog synthesizer.
®
in 1973. To me, the A6 represents the next
This synthesizer has more modulation and control functionality than most players
can fully use in a lifetime. It has an studio-quality effects system, an elaborate MIDI
system and one of the most logical and useful displays on the market. Add to that an
Arpeggiator, a classic 16-event Sequencer, a Ribbon controller and CV inputs, and
you have an analog powerhouse with all of the tools — and all of the toys.
Last, but certainly not least, the A6 is gorgeous. And its striking layout and front
panel artwork is every bit as functional as it is beautiful.
We’ve just touched on the some of the highlights of this product; there’s much more
to be explored. After you’ve read through this Reference, and experienced the sound
and feel of the A6, I’m confident that you will be every bit as excited about it as I am.
There will always be a place in the music world for a great analog synth.
Dave Bertovic
Winter 2001
ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL 15
Introduction
HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL
STRUCTURE
This manual was designed to take you through the A6 in a logical order of topics.
This way, anyone who is new to this type of instrument can read through the book
from front to back and get the most basic information first. The manual progressively
deals with more complex topics as you read through to the end. Experienced users
can simply use this manual as a reference resource, browsing through the topics as
needed. An Index is provided at the end of the manual for quick referrals to specific
subjects or problems. The Appendices provide technical information about the A6.
The Chapters can be grouped into five categories of information:
Overview – Chapters 1 and 2
Chapter 1 is your basic introduction to the A6, from getting it out of the box, setting it
up and plugging it in to making simple audio and MIDI connections, and hooking
up pedals and footswitches.
Once you get everything connected, Chapter 2 takes you on a detailed tour of the A6.
This Chapter runs you through the most commonly used performance features of the
unit, including a discussion of how the display works and how to select sounds.
We’ll also take a good look at Master Volume and Tune, the keyboard and its modes,
Portamento, the Sequencer and Arpeggiator, the two performance Wheels and the
Ribbon Controller.
Synthesis and the A6 – Chapters 3 and 4
This section of the manual starts out with Chapter 3 giving you a broad background
of analog synthesis, including some history and acoustic theory. All of this is then
applied to a generic analog synthesizer to illustrate the electronic counterparts of a
sound’s components.
If you are new to analog synthesis, we strongly recommend that you read this
Chapter in its entirety. What you will learn here will help the rest of the manual
make sense.
Where Chapter 3 provides you with concepts, Chapter 4 brings it all home to the A6.
Here, you’ll learn how the A6’s sounds are organized, and how the front and back
panels are laid out. A complete list of the A6’s functions are presented along with
concise descriptions.
Program Functions – Chapters 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9
These five Chapters take you through every function that makes up a Program.
Here’s where the theory we covered in Chapter 3 meets reality: what the knobs and
switches do to affect each aspect of the sound.
Sound Applications – Chapters 10, 11 and 12
Chapter 10 covers all the bases when it comes to using the Andromeda’s powerful
internal effects. Chapter 11 deals with Mix mode: the A6’s memory functions for
combining two or more Programs. Mix mode is where you create splits and layers,
multiple splits and layers and other multitimbral configurations. We’ll also explore
incorporating external Programs with the A6’s internal sounds.
Chapter 12 takes a good, long look at MIDI: an introductory tutorial on MIDI
functions followed by MIDI operations specific to the A6.
16 ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL
Technical – The Appendices
The appendices at the end of the A6 Reference Manual provide concise information
about the instrument from a technical perspective:
Appendix A is a complete reference that documents every function in the unit.
Appendix B is glossary of common terms we use throughout the manual.
Appendix C provides troubleshooting assistance and covers the majority of
common problems you might incur while using the A6.
Appendix D provides a list of the A6’s technical and design specifications
including the instrument’s MIDI Implementation Chart.
Appendix E covers all warranty, servicing and maintenance issues.
The Index is a comprehensive cross-reference to all of the topics and terminology
in the manual.
TYPOGRAPHIC CONVENTIONS
Knob, button and back panel jack labels are printed in SMALL BOLD CAPITALS.
Introduction
Words or phrases that appear in the display are
resembles the DISPLAY characters
A new or important term is in italics followed by its definition or contextual meaning.
Paragraphs in italics provide additional information on a topic that might be helpful in
understanding certain important concepts.
Tip: A hint or special example called a Tip is set off from the main text by a box with
a light-gray fill.
Important instructions or emphasis on a word or phrase are printed in boldface
type.
printed using type that
.
ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL 17
Introduction
KEY TERMINOLOGY
While we define terms throughout this manual, and also provide a Glossary at the
end, we’d like to list a few terms now that will help you get a head start on some of
the technical expressions used in this document:
Voice
A synthesizer voice is the most basic component of a synthesizer that produces
sound. A voice is all of the hardware and software that is necessary to produce one
note of sound.
The A6 has 16 voices: 16 independent “sound-producing components” that play
when a key or keys are played on its keyboard, or when MIDI Notes are received.
This also means that 16 voices is the limit: if you play more than 16 keys at a time (or
the A6 receives more than 16 MIDI Notes), only 16 will play.
Program and Mix
Where a voice is the instrument’s sound-producing component, a Program is all the
settings that cause the voices to produce a particular sound. This is where many of
the front panel controls come in. They are used to create the individual sounds of the
A6 and their values (settings) are stored as a Program.
A Mix is two or more Programs that can be played at the same time. Mix mode is
where you make settings for splits and layers plus numerous combinations of
Programs, and keyboard/MIDI control.
RAM and ROM
Related to Programs and Mixes, these two terms refer to the physical circuit chips
inside the A6 where data is stored. RAM stands for Random Access Memory and is a
type of memory that you can change. This manual refers to RAM as user memory.
In addition to Programs and Mixes, Global setings are also stored in RAM (see the
definition of Global mode later in this topic).
ROM stands for Read Only Memory and is a type of memory that is, for the most
part, permanent. The A6 uses a type of ROM called Flash ROM which can be
modified but only under special circumstances. So, for all intents and purposes,
consider ROM to be read-only. This manual refers to ROM as preset memory.
Parameter
Virtually all of the main functions of the A6 are comprised of smaller elements or
parts. These elements are all related in some way to the overall operation of the
function they constitute. Each of these elements or parts is referred to as a parameter.
Using an Envelope as an example, it is comprised of no less than 47 parameters: six
adjustments for time, five adjustments for level, eight trigger settings, six dynamics
settings, eight loop parameters, plus settings for slope (with nine options), 12
modulation parameters and clock-synchronization settings.
Page
The display will group a function’s parameters together on the screen called a
display page. Some A6 functions have more than one page because they have more
parameters than can be displayed in the available screen area. This is called a multi-
page display and each page’s title is printed on a page tab which resembles a tab in a
notebook.
Editing
When you make a change to a parameter in a Program or Mix, or to a Global function
– by adjusting its numeric value, turning it on or off and so forth – this is called
editing.
18 ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL
Introduction
Offset
Many of the Andromeda A6’s parameters have an additional adjustment called offset.
This is simply an adjustment of the parameter by a fixed amount
Default
When the A6 is shipped from the factory, each of its parameters has a pre-assigned
value called a default. This is so that when a parameter is selected, it displays some
setting – on or off status, positive or negative status, a number or another
appropriate entry – that is either a neutral setting, or one that's a good starting point
for editing.
Amplitude
The most common use of this word is using it to describe loudness or volume. But
strictly speaking, amplitude refers to the level of a signal, its “intensity” (or lack of it)
or the “signal strength”. And this includes any signal: the sound coming from the
oscillators, vibrato from an LFO, an envelope and so forth.
So care must be taken not to associate amplitude with volume exclusively; it can be
(and most often is) used to generically describe a signal’s level whether it’s volume
or not. When we cover envelopes in the next chapter, for example, amplitude control
is one of an envelope’s main characteristics, but it doesn’t always mean volume.
We’ll simply use the term amplitude when referring to any kind of level.
Frequency
The most common use of this word is to describe musical pitch or notes. Although
this is accurate, there are other things that have frequency even though you might
not be able to hear them directly. Frequency is defined as rate or speed, usually
expressed in “cycles-per-second” which indicates how many times a wave or pattern
is repeated in one second. Cycles-per-second is most often referred to as “Hertz” –
abbreviated “Hz” – named after the German physicist who established this unit of
measurement, Heinrich Hertz. Many of our examples will involve frequencies in the
thousands of cycles per second, referred to as “kilo-Hertz” and abbreviated “kHz”.
We’ll use the term frequency to refer to the rate of repetition of any component of the
A6: the pitch of the
FILTERs and the CLOCK rate, among others.
VCOs, the speed of the LFOs, the harmonic characteristics of the
Note On and Note Off
The A6 can be played from four sources. The two primary ones are its own built-in
keyboard, or a MIDI device such as another MIDI keyboard. It also can be played by
a sequencer (including software sequencers running on a computer), or a drum
machine – anything capable of sending MIDI Note On commands and a MIDI Note
Off commands. In addition, the A6 can be “played” by its own Sequencer and
Arpeggiator.
To simplify our discussions in the manual, we’ll use the term Note On to refer to a
key being pressed on the A6’s keyboard, a MIDI Note On message being received by
the A6, or notes being played from the A6’s Arpeggiator and Sequencer, since they
all essentially accomplish the same thing.
We’ll use the term Note Off when referring to a pressed key being let go on the A6’s
keyboard, a received MIDI Note Off message or the end of the Gate Time from the
Sequencer and Arpeggiator.
Trigger and Gate
The concept of triggers and gates is often a confusing one for many synthesizer users.
They are similar in that they both instruct a modulation source to begin, but that’s
where the similarity ends.
A trigger is best described as a “go” signal that is routed from a source (such as the
keyboard) to a modulation function. A trigger has no significant duration as it is
ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL 19
Introduction
simply an electronic pulse. Translating our definition of trigger to MIDI, a trigger is
the equivalent of a Note On command.
By contrast, a gate not only performs a “go” instruction but also carries with it a
duration characteristic. Using the keyboard as in the above example, a gate signal is
active for the time that a key is held down; a trigger is generated only at the instant
the key is first played. Translating our definition of gate to MIDI, the duration of a
gate is the time that elapses between the Note On and the Note Off commands.
LED
This acronym stands for Light Emitting Diode, a technical name for a simple feature.
It refers to the small panel lights on the A6’s front panel. When an LED next to a
knob or button is on, this indicates that the function is active.
Global
The term global, used often in this manual, refers to any function that affects the A6
no matter what play mode it’s in: global functions affect all Programs and Mixes. You
can think of global functions as “master” functions. Master Tune is a perfect example
of this – it tunes the whole instrument. Other global functions, described in detail
later in the manual, include Master Volume, Pitch and Mod Wheel assignments, the
Clock’s tempo and certain MIDI functions. While not programmable in the sense of
being stored with Programs and Mixes, global settings are kept in a section of RAM
dedicated to global functions and are retained when the A6 is turned off.
Linear, Exponential and Logarithmic
These are mathematical terms that are used in A6 to describe the way certain
functions perform, most notably Envelope stages and Portamento. When a function
is said to have a “linear response”, we mean that it produces an even rate of change
that, when depicted by a graph, resembles a straight line (hence the term “linear”).
Functions that have exponential and logarithmic responses produce rates of change
that accelerate (speed up) or decelerate (slow down) rather than stay even. Instead of
a straight line which represents simple ratios, expo and log functions are a little more
complex and are graphed by curves.
20 ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL
GETTING STARTED
WHAT YOU’LL NEED
The A6’s basic requirements include:
1. an AC electrical outlet
2. a stand or table to put it on
3. audio cables and a sound system or amplifier, or a pair of headphones
USING THE A6 WITH OTHER INSTRUMENTS
If you plan to use the A6 with other MIDI devices, you’ll need standard MIDI cables
that connect your A6 to other MIDI devices in your system. See the topic
below for more information. It would also help if you have basic working knowledge
of MIDI. If you’re new to MIDI, read our MIDI tutorial in Chapter 10.
UNPACK IT
Chapter 1: Getting Started
CHAPTER 1
Hook It Up
The A6 is packaged in a cardboard box with molded styrofoam inserts. After you
remove your A6, its AC power cord, the Warranty card and this manual, we suggest
you keep all packing materials in a safe place. You’ll need the box and styrofoam in
case the unit needs to be transported or shipped.
SET IT UP
You can place the A6 just about anywhere that’s convenient. Before placing the A6
on a stand or table, be certain that is capable of securely holding an object that
weighs 40 lbs. (18.15kg). You should also consider any pounding that you might be
giving it. If the stand collapses under the A6’s weight (or your playing), the unit
could suffer permanent damage and you could be injured. Take the time right now to
make sure that your stand is adequate.
HOOK IT UP
POWER
Use the AC power cord (or equivalent) that is included with the A6. Make sure that
the unit is turned off before you plug the power cord into the rear panel receptacle
and the wall outlet. The unit has a universal power supply that should work with
local AC power in most countries. If in doubt, check with your power company
before plugging it in. In the U.S., the A6 must be plugged into a standard 117 VAC,
50 - 60 Hz outlet.
Do not attempt to use another type of power cable and do not
attempt to modify this receptacle or the cable itself. Doing so may
cause serious injury or death. Please refer to the section Important
Safety Instructions at the beginning of this manual.
ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL 21
Chapter 1: Getting Started
AUDIO CONNECTIONS
After you’ve set up the A6 and plugged it into an AC outlet, connect your A6 to a
sound system. Since the A6 does not contain an amplifier or speakers, you’ll need to
connect it to some kind of a sound system in order to hear it. An amp with a fullrange speaker will also suffice, as will a stereo music system with external audio
inputs. You can also use a pair of standard stereo headphones with a 1/4” TRS plug
inserted into the back panel.
For stereo, connect two 1/4” 2-conductor (unbalanced) audio cables from the unit’s
LEFT and RIGHT jacks on the rear panel to two inputs on your sound system. For a
monophonic output, use an audio cable from the A6’s
jacks plus the eight stereo VOICE OUTPUTS will be covered in Chapter 4.
LEFT jack. The four AUX OUT
For use with stereo headphones, the A6 sports a 1/4” stereo
rear panel.
In any case, turn your A6 on first, then your sound system or amplifier. Use the
MASTER VOLUME control located near the front panel’s upper left-hand corner to set
the overall output level of the synthesizer.
PEDALS AND FOOTSWITCHES
Momentary, 2-conductor foot switches are used for the SWITCH and SUSTAIN inputs
on the A6’s back panel. “Momentary” means that it is a spring-loaded switch that
operates by “pressing and releasing” for
A potentiometer, 2-conductor foot pedal is used for the
This input is typically used for volume or modulation (typically vibrato, but you can
use it for other types of modulation). “Potentiometer” means that the pedal
mechanically operates an internal knob giving you “more” or “less” rather than
or OFF like a switch. These pedals are often referred to as “rocker pedals”.
HEADPHONE jack on the
ON (press) or OFF (release) signals.
PEDAL/CV back panel input.
ON
22 ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL
MIDI CONNECTIONS
If you plan to use the A6 with other MIDI instruments and devices in a music system,
use the following guide to connect it to your rig.
Chapter 1: Getting Started
As a Master: If you intend to use the A6 as the master controller in your
rig, plug a standard MIDI cable into the A6’s MIDI OUT port. The
other end of this cable should plug into the
MIDI IN of the first
slave in the system. If there are several MIDI instruments in your
setup, connect
MIDI THRU from the first slave to the MIDI IN of the
second device and so forth to create a “chain”.
POWER
A
B
PHONES VOLUME
64 VOICE EXPANDABLE SYNTHESIZER MODULE
MIDI CHANNEL
PLAY MODE
VALUE
EDIT MODE
CURSOR
PROGMIXEDIT
DOWN UPSTOREMIDI CH
GLOBAL
COMPARE
BANK SELECT
PCMCIA EXPANSION CARDS
MIDI
ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL 23
Chapter 1: Getting Started
As a Slave: If you plan to control the A6 from another MIDI device, you’ll
need a
MIDI cable connected to its MIDI IN port.
You will also need a MIDI cable connected to the A6’s
if you plan to pass MIDI data from the master through the A6 to
other MIDI devices in your rig. Connect one end of the MIDI
cable to the A6’s
MIDI IN of the first device in the chain.
the
64 VOICE EXPANDABLE SYNTHESIZER MODULE
PHONES VOLUME
MIDI CHANNEL
MIDI THRU port and the other end of the cable to
PLAY MODE
VALUE
EDIT MODE
CURSOR
PROGMIXEDIT
DOWN UPSTOREMIDI CH
GLOBAL
COMPARE
BANK SELECT
PCMCIA EXPANSION CARDS
POWER
A
B
MIDI THRU
24 ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL
Chapter 1: Getting Started
With a MIDI Patchbay: If you’re using a MIDI patchbay or “patcher” to connect all of
your MIDI devices centrally, the patcher will have a pair of MIDI
connectors for each MIDI device. The patcher’s back panel will
have a series of paired
MIDI OUT and MIDI IN ports for each device
in your rig (the A6 being one of them).
Connect the A6’s
same pair’s
MIDI OUT to the MIDI IN of one of the pairs. The
MIDI OUT connects to the MIDI IN of the A6. Consult the
patcher’s Owner’s Manual to find out how it routes MIDI data
among the devices connected to it.
PLAY MODE
PHONES VOLUME
64 VOICE EXPANDABLE SYNTHESIZER MODULE
MIDI CHANNEL
VALUE
EDIT MODE
CURSOR
PROGMIXEDIT
DOWN UPSTOREMIDI CH
GLOBAL
COMPARE
BANK SELECT
PCMCIA EXPANSION CARDS
POWER
A
B
This covers the basics of setting up the A6.
ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL 25
Chapter 1: Getting Started
QUICK START: PLAYING YOUR FIRST PROGRAM
AUTO TUNE
Now that it's all hooked up, there's one more thing you have to do. If you've jumped
the gun and played a few chords, you probably heard that the unit was way out of
tune. Because the Andromeda is a true analog synthesizer, and analog circuitry is
sensitive to temperature and other factors, each one of the sixteen voices (and the
oscillators and filters within each voice) must be tuned before playing. Luckily, the
Andromeda has a software routine that will do this for you.
To tune the Andromeda's voices automatically:
On the left side of the control panel above the Mod Wheel, find the MASTER section,
with a Volume and a Tune knob. Press the
will bring up the Auto Tune display. Press
process.
On the display, you will see each individual oscillator, pulse width, and filter tuned in
turn. This takes about three and a half minutes, during which you won't be able to play
the unit. (Later, you can save time by tuning only the oscillators if you wish, by pressing
the button under
OSCFRQ in the display.)
AUTO TUNE button beneath these, which
AUTO TUNE again to start the tuning
Once the unit is tuned, you'll see a chart showing the results of the tune. A “
under each voice number shows that the voice was properly tuned. There is one row
showing the VCA tune status and one row showing the Oscillator/Filter tune status
(more on this later). After the unit has warmed up some more, if you hear something
off-key, you may press
The A6 also automatically tunes unused voices in the background without
interrupting playing. This is called Background Tuning. In addition, the A6 monitors
the temperature of the analog hardware and adjusts tuning to compensate for
temperature changes. This is called Temperature Tuning. (More about turning these
on and off can be found in later sections of the manual.)
AUTO TUNE again.
T”
26 ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL
SELECTING PROGRAMS
You don't have to know what all the knobs do to enjoy the A6; it comes preprogrammed with hundreds of sounds. You can simply listen to these sounds and
find out more about them later. When playing the A6, the instrument operates in
one of two play modes: Program mode and Mix mode. In Program mode, the
keyboard plays a single sound across the entire keyboard. Program mode has 3
banks: User, Preset 1, and Preset 2. Each bank has 128 different Programs, so you
have a total of 384 Programs to audition. In Mix mode, it may play different sounds
in different ranges (a split), a stack of sounds on top of each other, or combination of
splits and stacks. There are two banks in Mix mode (one User and one Preset) for a
total of 256 Mixes. Between the two modes, you have 640 "patches" to select from.
To select Programs and Mixes:
1. To select a Program, make sure that the A6 is in Program mode: the LED next to
PROGRAM button should be on. If not, press the PROGRAM button.
the
The easiest method of selecting Programs or Mixes to use the row of direct-select
buttons just above the Ribbon Controller. Pressing a 2-digit
selects the “tens group”...
Chapter 1: Getting Started
PROGRAM GROUP button
and pressing a single-digit PROGRAM NUMBER button selects the specific Program:
OR
To select a Mix, make sure that the A6 is in Mix mode: the LED next to the
MIX button should be on. If not, press the MIX button.
2. To select a specific Program, press a
NUMBER
selects Program
button. Pressing the “50” button, for example, plus the “8” button
58, Mix 58, or PROG 58 in a Mix Channel.
3. You can move among Banks by pressing the
For example, when the Andromeda is in
PROGRAM GROUP button then a PROGRAM
< BANK or BANK > button:
PROGRAM
mode, you have three Program Banks from which to
choose Programs: two factory Preset Banks and the
User Bank (where you store Programs that you create).
Use the
BANK buttons to switch among these three
Banks. Mix Mode works the same: when MIX Mode is
active, use the
BANK buttons to switch among the two
Mix Banks (one Preset and one User).
As you change programs, you'll notice various lights on the top panel will change.
Disregard this for now.
ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL 27
Chapter 1: Getting Started
MASTER VOLUME
And finally, adjust the level using the MASTER VOLUME on the left side of the control
panel. The
to do the same thing, but avoid using it for now.
MASTER VOLUME knob is a
The
global (affects the A6 in all
modes) volume control that
determines the final output
level of the unit’s
RIGHT stereo outs, the
HEADPHONE output and the two
AUX OUTs. It does not affect the
sixteen inidividual
OUTPUTS
MASTER VOLUME is post (comes
after) the
mixes and the VOICE MIX. This
means that any relative level
settings you make within the
Programs and Mixes are preserved.
VOICE MIX LEVEL on the right side is a programmable control—it may seem
MAIN LEFT and
. To use an audio term,
PRE and POST FILTER
VOICE
You operate this control by simply turning it: fully counter-clockwise shuts the audio
outputs off, fully clockwise is maximum.
The next chapter covers the basics of playing the A6: more detail about how to select
Programs and Mixes, understanding the various keyboard modes including setting
up splits and layers and using portamento, using the performance wheels and the
ribbon controller, using pedals and footswitches, and understanding the
CLOCK
section in using the sequencer and arpeggiator.
Chapter 2 will also devote much attention to the display, as it is the central focus of
the A6 when operating its controls.
28 ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL
Loading...