Alesis MODFX AMPLITON User Manual [en, fr, de]

Reference Manual

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Copyright 2002, Alesis. All rights reserved
Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited.
Specifications subject to change without notice.
All trademarks are the property of their respective holders.

7-51-0110-A
8/2002

Table of Contents

Introduction....................................................................3

Welcome! .........................................................................................................3

About the Ampliton.......................................................................4

Important features of your Ampliton ........................................................4

Ampliton Key Features .................................................................................5

How to Use This Manual.............................................................6

Safety Instructions/Notices .....................................7

Important Safety Instructions (English)............................ 7

CE Declaration Of Conformity................................................9

FCC Compliance Statement......................................................9

Instructions de Sécurité Importantes (French) .........................................10

Lesen Sie bitte die folgende Sicherheitshinweise

(German) ..................................................................................................12

Quick Start Guide ........................................................15

If you can’t wait to get started......................................................................15

Hook it up to a synthesizer...........................................................................15

A quick overview of the controls ........................................... 16

Rear Panel........................................................................................................16

Connections ....................................................................17

Unpacking and Inspection............................................................................17

Installing in a Rack .........................................................................................17

Power................................................................................................................17

Connecting to the Channel Inserts of a mixing console: ........................19

Connecting to the Main Outputs of a mixing console: ...........................20

Connecting to the Effect Send/Return of a mixing

console: .....................................................................................................20

Connecting to the inserts on an instrument amplifier: ............................21

Connecting to equipment with XLR inputs and outputs:.......................22

About audio cables.........................................................................................22

Using the ModLink........................................................................23

Using the Ampliton......................................................25

The two sides of the Ampliton.................................................25

What is Tremolo? ...........................................................................................25

What is Autopan? ...........................................................................................25

What is Tempo Sync? ....................................................................................26

To turn Tempo Sync off: ..............................................................................26

Description of Controls...............................................................27

Rate ...................................................................................................................27

Depth................................................................................................................27

Tremolo Mode Rocker Switch.....................................................................28

Autopan Mode Rocker Switch.....................................................................30

Reset Mod........................................................................................................32

Tap Tempo......................................................................................................33

Bypass...............................................................................................................34

1

Table Of Contents

Using the Foot Switch...................................................................................34

Sample Settings.............................................................35

Blank templates...............................................................................................38

Troubleshooting............................................................39

Troubleshooting Index................................................................ 39

Avoiding ground loop noise.........................................................................41

Line conditioners and spike protectors ......................................................42

Care and Maintenance ................................................................ 43

Cleaning............................................................................................................43

Refer all servicing to Alesis...........................................................................43

Obtaining repair service ................................................................................44

Specifications.................................................................45

Audio Input.....................................................................................................45

Audio Output..................................................................................................45

Audio Performance........................................................................................45

Mechanical.......................................................................................................45

Index...................................................................................47

Warranty/Contact Alesis ...........................................48

Alesis Limited Warranty................................................................................48

Alesis Contact Information ..........................................................................49

2

Introduction

F

Welcome!

Thank you for making the Alesis Ampliton a part of your studio.
Since 1984, we've been designing and building creative tools for
the audio community. We believe in our products, because we've
heard the results that creative people like you have achieved with
them. One of Alesis' goals is to make high-quality studio
equipment available to everyone, and this Reference Manual is an
important part of that. After all, there's no point in making
equipment with all kinds of capabilities if no one explains how to
use them. So, we try to write our manuals as carefully as we build
our products.

The goal of this manual is to get you the information you need as
quickly as possible, with a minimum of hassle. We hope we've
achieved that. If not, please drop us an email and give us your
suggestions on how we could improve future editions of this
manual.

We hope your investment will bring you many years of creative
enjoyment and help you achieve your goals.

or more effective
service and product
update notices, please
register your Ampliton
online at:

http://www.alesis.com/
support/warranty.htm

Sincerely,
The people of Alesis

3

Introduction

About the Ampliton

Your new Ampliton is a member of the Alesis ModFX family of
performance effects boxes. This particular ModFX unit, the
Ampliton, is an amplitude modulator that combines a tremolo
effect with an autopan effect.

Each box in the line provides a different set of sound effects and
signal processing, and they are easy to arrange and connect to each
other. With a uniform, friendly, uncomplicated user interface and
high-resolution digital processing, the ModFX product line is
perfect for keyboardists, guitarists, and any other studio or live
performance artists.

Important features of your Ampliton

High Resolution Processing

The Ampliton internally uses 28-bit stereo digital signal processing.
The digital-to-analog and analog-to-digital conversion is sampled
at 48kHz with 24 bits of resolution. That means you can get the
effect you want, without adding unwanted noise and distortion.

ModLink

If you’re using multiple ModFX boxes to make your own unique
effects chain, ModLink makes it easy to hookup without needing
patch cords within the chain. The nine-pin connectors built into
each side of the case enable a ModFX box to transfer digital audio
and word clock directly to another. Any number of units can be
connected together.

Configurable Modulation

Both the tremolo and the autopan effects have configurable
modulation. The user can control the shape, rate, and depth of the
modulation. The rate of each modulation can be synchronized to
the tempo, both by tap tempo and by audio input.

4

Ampliton Key Features

• Two digital effects in one box (tremolo and autopan), each

with its own separate controls for modulation sources, depth
and speed

• Uniform, friendly, uncomplicated user interface—no fiddling

with complicated menus or “hidden” knobs

• Tempo synchronization for tremolo and/or autopan speed

keeps effects modulation in time with the music

• Tap Tempo makes it easy to set the speed of tremolo and/or

autopan by tapping a beat on the top panel

• Reset Mod lets you reset the phase of any modulation shape

from its beginning

• Stereo processing via four 1/4” unbalanced connectors

• ModLink port, a cable-free connection that transfers digital

audio and word clock to other boxes in the ModFX family

• Footswitch connection to control the bypass function

• Ability to mount 3 ModFX boxes in the optional ModFX

rack adapter

• Input trim control to adjust input level

• Internal 28-bit digital processing

• 24-bit D/A and A/D conversion at 48kHz sampling rate for

quiet, distortion-free effects

• External 9VAC power supply included

Introduction

5

Introduction

H

How to Use This Manual

A little technical knowledge will help you get the most out of your
gear...it’s really pretty simple. This manual is divided into the
following sections describing the various functions and
applications for the Ampliton. While it's a good idea to read
through the entire manual once carefully, those having general
knowledge about effect devices should use the table of contents to
look up specific functions.

Chapter 1: Quick Start. If you're already experienced with effect
boxes, this will get you started using the Ampliton right away. It's
a short guide to the essential elements of hooking it up and using it
for the first time. A brief tour of the front and rear panels also
directs you to the chapters focused on individual features.

Chapter 2: Connections gives detailed instructions for connecting the
Ampliton to a variety of typical audio systems. It also discusses
the process of linking the Ampliton with other ModFX devices.

Chapter 3: Using the Ampliton explains the controls of the Ampliton
and their functions.

Chapter 4: Sample Settings provides a selection of sound charts
created by the sound designers at Alesis for you to try.

Near the end of the manual are troubleshooting tips,
specifications, and an index to help you find what you're looking
for.

elpful tips an d ad v ic e a re
h ig hlig h te d in a sh a de d b ox
lik e th is

Whe n so m ething im po r ta nt
a pp ea rs in the ma nua l, a n

e xc la ma tio n m ar k (like th e
o ne s ho wn at le ft) will a pp ea r
with so m e ex p la na to r y te x t.
This sy m bo l i nd ic ate s th a t
this in for ma tio n is vita l whe n
o pe ra tin g th e Amp liton .

6

Safety Instructions/Notices

Important Safety Instructions (English)

Safety symbols used in this product

operating and maintenance instructions in the literature
accompanying this unit.

the unit that can cause dangerous electric shocks.

voltages that can cause dangerous electrical shock.

This symbol alerts the user that there are important

This symbol warns the user of uninsulated voltage within

This symbol warns the user that output connectors contain

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 or
grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with
one wider than the other. A grounding-type plug has two
blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the
third prong are 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.

Continued next page

7

Important Safety Instructions

11. Use only attachments or accessories specified by the
manufacturer.

12. Use only with a cart, stand, bracket, or table designed for use
with professional audio or music equipment. In any
installation, make sure that injury or damage will not result
from cables pulling on the apparatus and its mounting. If a
cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus
combination to avoid injury from tip-over.

13. 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 power-supply 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
well-ventilated area with at least six inches of clearance from
peripheral equipment.

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. Do not expose the apparatus to dripping or splashing. Do not
place objects filled with liquids (flower vases, soft drink cans,
coffee cups) on the apparatus.

18. WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do
not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture.

8

Important Safety Instructions

CE Declaration Of Conformity

See our website at:

http://www.alesis.com

FCC Compliance Statement

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is
subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not
cause harmful interference and (2) this device must accept any
interference received, including interference that may cause
undesired operation.

NOTE: 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.

9

Important Safety Instructions

Instructions de Sécurité Importantes (French)

Symboles utilisés dans ce produit

de fonctionnement et de maintenance dans la documentation
jointe avec ce produit.

tension non isolée à l’intérieur de l’appareil pouvant engendrer des
chocs électriques.

sur les raccordements de sorties, représentant un risque
d'électrocution.

Ce symbole alèrte l’utilisateur qu’il existe des instructions

Ce symbole avertit l’utilisateur de la présence d’une

Ce symbole prévient l'utilisateur de la présence de tensions

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. Il est potentiellement
dangereux d'utiliser des pulvérisateurs ou nettoyants liquides
sur cet appareil.

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.

Suite de la page suivante

10

Important Safety Instructions

11. N’utilisez que des accessoires spécifiés par le constructeur.

12. N’utilisez qu’avec un stand, ou table conçus pour l’utilisation
d’audio professionnel ou instruments de musique. Dans toute
installation, veillez de ne rien endommager à cause de câbles
qui tirent sur des appareils et leur support.

13. Débranchez l’appareil lors d’un orage ou lorsqu’il n’est pas
utilisé pendant longtemps.

14. Faites réparer par un personnel qualifié. 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. Puisque son fonctionement normale génère de la chaleur,
placez cet appareil au moins 15cm. des équipments
péripheriques et assurez que l’emplacement permet la
circulation de l’air.

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.

17. N'exposez pas l'appareil à l'égoutture ou à l'éclaboussement.
Ne placez pas les objets remplis de liquides (vases à fleur,
boîtes de boisson non alcoolique, tasses de café) sur l'appareil.

18. AVERTISSEMENT: Pour réduire le risque du feu ou de
décharge électrique, n'exposez pas cet appareil à la pluie ou à
l'humidité.

11

Important Safety Instructions

Lesen Sie bitte die folgende Sicherheitshinweise (German)

Sicherheit Symbole verwendet in diesem
Produkt

Funktionieren und Wartung Anweisungen in der Literatur gibt, die
diese Maßeinheit begleitet.

Spannung innerhalb der Maßeinheit, die gefährliche elektrische
Schläge verursachen kann.

Spannungen enthalten, die gefährlichen elektrischen Schlag
verursachen können.

Dieses Symbol alarmiert den Benutzer, daß es wichtige

Dieses Symbol warnt den Benutzer der nicht isolierten

Dieses Symbol warnt den Benutzer, dem Ausgabestecker

Folgen Sie bitte diesen Vorkehrungen, wenn
dieses Produkt verwendet wird:

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.
Verwenden Sie keine flüssigen Reinigungsmittel. Dies kann
gefährliche Folgen haben.

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. Verfehlen Sie nicht den Zweck des grounging Terminals auf
dem Netzstecker. Dieses Terminal wird für Ihre Sicherheit zur
Verfügung gestellt.

10. Verlegen Sie das Netzkabel des Gerätes niemals so, daß man
darüber stolpern kann oder daß es gequetscht wird.

Fortsetzung auf nächster Seite

12

Important Safety Instructions

11. Benutzen Sie nur das vom Hersteller empfohlene Zubehör.

12. Verwenden Sie ausschließlich Wagen, Ständer, oder Tische, die
speziell für professionelle Audio- und Musikinstrumente
geeignet sind. Achten Sie immer darauf, daß die jeweiligen
Geräte sicher installiert sind, um Schäden und Verletzungen zu
vermeiden. Wenn Sie einen Rollwagen benutzen, achten Sie
darauf, das dieser nicht umkippt, um Verletzungen
auszuschließen.

13. Ziehen Sie während eines Gewitters oder wenn Sie das Gerät
über einen längeren Zeitraum nicht benutzen den Netzstecher
aus der Steckdose.

14. 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.

15. Dieses Gerät produziert auch im normalen Betrieb Wärme.
Achten Sie deshalb auf ausreichende Lüftung mit mindestens
15 cm Abstand von anderen Geräten.

16. 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.

17. Setzen Sie den Apparat nicht Bratenfett oder dem Spritzen
aus. Plazieren Sie die Nachrichten, die mit Flüssigkeiten
(gefüllt werden Blumevases, Getränkdosen, Kaffeetassen)
nicht auf den Apparat.

18. WARNING: um die Gefahr des Feuers oder des elektrischen
Schlages zu verringern, setzen Sie diesen Apparat nicht Regen
oder Feuchtigkeit aus.

13

Important Safety Instructions

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14

1 Quick Start Guide

I
p

p

If you can’t wait to get started

The Alesis Ampliton is a unique product, but its basic hookup and
operation is similar to other effects units in most respects. If
you're experienced with signal processors, this chapter is a
"shorthand" guide for those who want to start using the Ampliton
right away. If you have questions about any of the features, don’t
worry – later chapters will unveil the mysteries of the Ampliton's
special features.

Hook it up to a synthesizer

1. First, make sure the power is off to all the components
you’re connecting to: amp, mixer, and instruments.

2. Pull the Ampliton and its power supply out of the
package.

3. Using a pair of 1/4” instrument cables, plug the outputs
of the synthesizer into the INPUTS on the back of the
Ampliton.

4. Connect the OUTPUTS of the Ampliton to the inputs
of a mixer, powered speakers, or instrument amplifier.

5. Insert the power jack of the Ampliton’s power adapter
into the POWER 9VAC input on the rear panel of the
Ampliton and plug the power adapter into an AC outlet
(preferably on a power strip with its switch off).

f you're new to signal

rocessing...

s ta rt with th e mo re de ta ile d
ins tr uc tio ns fo r ho o ku p a nd
o pe ra tio n sta rtin g in th e n ex t
c ha

ter .

The Ampliton doesn’t have a POWER switch of its own. The
moment you plug in the power, its top panel LEDs will come on.

6. Turn the power on to the system: the keyboard, then
the Ampliton’s power strip (if it’s not already on), then
the mixer, then the amp.

7. Turn the INPUT TRIM knob on the back of the
Ampliton while playing the keyboard to adjust the input
level. The SIGNAL LED on the top panel will light
green, not red, when the level is correct.

8. Experiment with the knob and button settings on the
Ampliton to create different sounds.

For more detailed information on connecting the Ampliton, see
chapter 2: Connections.

15

Quick Start Guide

1

A quick overview of the controls

Roc ke r s witc hes

The TREMOLO an d
AUTOPAN switch e s se lec t
the c ur r en t e ffec t m od e, as
s ho wn b y the LED s ne x t to
the m.

The RATE kn ob s a ffec t the
s pe ed o f m od u la tion , in
c oo pe ra tio n with th e TEMPO
S YNC an d TAP TEMPO
b utto ns . Se e p ag e3 3.

Rear Panel

Plu g th e p owe r ad ap ter in
h er e.

Res et Mo d

Res ta rts the mo du la tio n fro m
the b eg inn in g o f its c yc le.
G en er ate s a trigg er in
TRI GG ERED mo d e, o r
c ha ng es th e p atte rn in
PATTERN mo de .

D EPTH co ntro ls ho w m uc h
o f th e e ff ec t y ou ’ll h ea r . The
left on e ’s fo r Tr em o lo , the
r ig ht fo r Au top an .

BYPASS le ts s ign al pa ss
thr ou gh with o ut a ny effe c ts .

The FOO T SWI TCH ma y be
c on ne cte d to an y mo m en ta r y
p ed al, to en g ag e th e BYPASS
fun ctio n .

Tap Tem p o

Activ e for e ffe cts in TEMPO
S YNC mo d e
r eg ular be at on this b utton ,
a nd the sp ee d o f th e e ffe ct
will be se t a t so me mu ltiple of
tha t b ea t , a s se t b y th e RATE
k no bs .

Sig na l LED

Whe n th is lig hts gr e en , the
Amp lito n is g etting an in pu t
s ig na l. Whe n i t’ s r ed , it’ s
s ee in g too m u ch lev e l...s o
tur n do wn th e ins tr u me nt...

...o r th e TRI M co ntro l h er e
o n th e b ac k p an el.

o nly. Tap a

The Mod Link co nnec tor s le t
y ou a rr a ng e s ev er al Mo dFX
u nits in a c h ain, with ou t
h av in g to us e inp ut an d
o utpu t c ab le s ins id e the
c ha in .

16

I NPUTS a nd O U TPUTS a re
s ta nd ar d 1 /4 ” lin e- lev el
jac ks .

I f yo u’ r e us ing a Mo dLin k
c ha in , y ou o n ly n ee d to
c on ne ct to th e firs t u nit’s
inp ut, a nd th e la st un it’ s
o utpu t.

2 Connections

M

I
f

A

D

A

Unpacking and Inspection

Your Ampliton was packed carefully at the factory. The shipping
carton was designed to protect the unit during shipping. Please
retain this container in the highly unlikely event that you need to
return the Ampliton for servicing.

The shipping carton should contain the following items:

• Ampliton with the same serial number as shown on the
shipping carton

• Power Adapter

• This instruction manual

To register your purchase, go to the Alesis website at

www.alesis.com.

Installing in a Rack

The Ampliton is designed for tabletop use, but can also be
installed in a standard 19" audio equipment rack. For rack
mounting, contact your Alesis dealer for the ModFX Rack. This
rack shelf holds three ModFX units in a 3-space high 19” rack.

Power

The Ampliton comes with an AC power adapter that transforms
the voltage from a standard outlet into 9 volts AC (830 mA).
Plug the small end of the power adapter cord into the Ampliton’s
POWER INPUT socket and then plug the adapter itself into a
good quality, noise-free AC power source of the proper rating.

The supplied AC line adapter is designed only for the destination
to which the unit is shipped. To use the Ampliton in another
country, contact your Alesis dealer for an Alesis P3 adapter
suitable for the electrical system in the country you are traveling
to.

ak e su r e yo u r ea d the

initial Im po r ta nt S a fe ty

n s t r u c t i o n s c h a p t e r a t t h e
ro nt o f this m an ua l.

void “popping”:

on ’t p lug th e po we r a da p te r
into th e Amp liton u n til a ll
o th er a u dio c ab le s h av e b ee n
h oo ke d u p. Mak e su r e yo u r
a mp lifie r or po w e r e d
s pe ak er s a re switch e d off
whe n plu gg in g in th e

mp lito n to a vo id d a ma ge .

17

Connections

M

F

f

f

2

Connecting audio

The Ampliton will work in many different applications, whether
you are connecting an instrument directly into it, or connecting it
through a mixing console. But since the Ampliton is a stereo
effect unit, it’s important to know whether the source will be
stereo or mono.

Mono In, Mono or Stereo Out

If you’re connecting a guitar or bass directly to the Ampliton, hook
it up this way:

1. Connect a 1/4" phone cord to the [LEFT/MONO] INPUT
of the Ampliton from a mono source. (The Left input will
then feed both inputs of the effect.)

2. Connect another 1/4" phone cord from the LEFT OUTPUT
of the Ampliton to an amplification system or mixer input.

3. If the amp or mixer is stereo, connect a second 1/4" phone
cord from the RIGHT OUTPUT of the Ampliton to the
other input of the stereo amplification system, or the next
mixer input.

4. If you’re connecting directly to a stereo mixer, pan the two
channels hard left and hard right to get the maximum effect.

Wh en c o nn ec tin g au d io
c ab le s a nd /o r tur nin g po wer
o n an d o ff, m ak e su r e th a t all
d ev ic es in y o ur s ys tem a r e
tur ne d o ff a n d th e v olum e
c on tr ols a re tu rn ed do wn .

Turn up the trim...

os t gu ita rs an d ba s se s h av e

r elativ e ly lo w ou tp u t le v els.

or the qu ie tes t effec t, tu rn

u p th e v olum e o n th e g uitar to

ull, th en c r an k up th e
[ TRIM] c on tr o l on th e ba c k
o f th e Amp liton u ntil th e
S IG NAL LED o n its to p pa n el

la sh es re d while y o u pla y,
the n ba c k it off a b it.

18

Connecting to the Channel Inserts of a

I

mixing console:

Most recording consoles have a jack near the mic and line inputs
labeled "Insert". This is typically a TRS jack with the send and
return on the same jack. To use the Ampliton as a channel insert,
you will need an insert cable (not included).

Connections

2

Rin g:

I ns er t r etur n

Tip : Sle ev e:

n s e r t s e n d I n s e r t G r o u n d

This cable splits the TRS insert jack into two unbalanced mono
connectors. Usually, the tip is connected to the INPUT of the
Ampliton and the ring is connected to the OUTPUT of the
Ampliton. However, this may be reversed on some recording
consoles. Check your mixer’s Reference Manual to be sure or just
try it both ways – this won’t damage the Ampliton.

For stereo operation, you would use two insert cables, inserted
into two adjacent channels of the mixer. One would send and
receive signal to the left channel of the Ampliton, and the pan pot
of that mixer channel would normally be panned to the left. Pan
the next mixer channel, for the right side of the Ampliton, to the
right.

I ns er t SEN D:

To Mo dFX I NPU T

I ns er t RETURN :

Fro m Mo d FX O U TPUT

19

Connections

I
f
A

f

2

Connecting to the Main Outputs of a mixing
console:

In addition to channel inserts, most mixing consoles have main
insert jacks near the main outputs. You can use insert cables to
connect the Ampliton to the main L/R bus the same way you
connect it to a pair of channels. Simply connect one insert cable
to the left main insert of the mixer, and connect the two mono
jacks to the left INPUT and OUTPUT of the Ampliton. Use
another insert cable to connect the right main insert to the right
INPUT and OUTPUT of the Ampliton.

Alternatively, you could plug the mixing console’s main outputs
directly into the Ampliton’s inputs, then feed the Ampliton’s
outputs to your monitor amps or mixdown recorder. However,
with this method if you fade down the volume at the end of the
song, the sound quality may change as you fade. That’s why it’s
better to use insert jacks, if they’re available.

Connecting to the Effect Send/Return of a
mixing console:

Since the ModFX boxes don’t have a wet/dry mix control, they’re
designed more for in-line processing than the send/receive kind of
processing typically used for reverb units. However, plugging the
Ampliton into a mixer’s effect send/return loop will allow you to
flange a mix of several instruments, from any mixer channel that
has its effect send raised.

To do this, connect a single cable from the Effect Send Out
(sometimes labeled “Aux Out”) to the [LEFT/MONO] input of
the Ampliton. Use two separate cables to connect the [LEFT
OUTPUT] and [RIGHT OUTPUT] of the Ampliton to the left
and right inputs of a Stereo Effect Return, or to two adjacent
mixer channels panned to left and right.

Fro m Aux /Eff S en d

To re tu r ns

f yo u use m ixe r cha nnels

o r t h e r e t u r n s f r o m t h e

mp lito n, b e su re th e Effec t

S en ds fo r t h o s e c h a n n e l s a r e
tur ne d a ll th e wa y o ff to a vo id

ee db ac k .

20

d

Amp

Connecting to the inserts on an instrument
amplifier:

The insert send on a guitar or bass amp is usually labeled "effects
send and return" or "insert send and return". This allows you
to preamplify your instrument before flanging it and sending it
to the power amp.

Most guitar amps are single channel, so connect a single insert
cable from the amp to the LEFT INPUT and LEFT OUTPUT of
the Ampliton. Some amps have separate “effect send” and “effect
return” jacks; for these, use standard cables. Check the manual of
your amplifier for details.

Connections

N e v e r c o nn e c t t he
A mp li t o n b e t w e e n th e
p ow e r a m p an d t he
s pe a k e r !

The h ig h p owe r le ve ls cr e ate
b y th e p ower am p will
d es tr oy th e c ir cu itr y of th e

lito n .

2

If you are using a dedicated rack-mount preamplifier, another
method would be to insert the Ampliton between the preamp and
the input(s) of the power amp.

21

Connections

D

M

N

D

y

2

Connecting to equipment with XLR inputs
and outputs:

If you are connecting the Ampliton to a product with XLR
balanced inputs and outputs, you will need to convert this signal to
a 1/4” unbalanced connector. Make sure that Pin 2
connector is connected to the Tip

Watch out for high levels, however: some XLR sources put out
levels close to the maximum the Ampliton can accept (about +12
dBu) even when its trim is at minimum. Lower the level of the
source if the [SIGNAL] LED flashes red.

of the 1/4” adapter or cable.

of the XLR

About audio cables

The connections between the Ampliton and your studio are your
music’s lifeline, so use only high quality cables. These should be
low-capacitance shielded cables with a stranded (not solid) internal
conductor and a low-resistance shield. Although quality cables
cost more, they do make a difference.

Route cables to the Ampliton correctly by observing the following
precautions:

• Do not bundle audio cables with AC power cords.

• Avoid running audio cables near sources of

electromagnetic interference such as transformers,
monitors, computers, etc.

• Do not place cables where they can be stepped on.

Stepping on a cable may not cause immediate damage,
but it can compress the insulation between the center
conductor and shield (degrading performance) or reduce
the cable’s reliability.

• Avoid twisting the cable or having it make sharp, right

angle turns.

• Never unplug a cable by pulling on the wire itself.

Always unplug by firmly grasping the body of the plug
and pulling directly outward.

on't use line

transformers:

an y XLR-to- 1 /4 " ad a pter s

s old at elec tro nics stor e s ar e

OT a da p te rs , b ut
tra ns fo r me rs (a nd v e ry lo w
q ua lity tr an s fo rm er s a t tha t) .

o n ' t u s e t h e s e o n the o u tp ut
o f th e Amp liton —the y 'r e
u nn ec es s ar y a nd g en e ra lly
s ou nd a wfu l b ec au se th ey
d on 't h a ve th e he ad r oo m to
h an dle the Amp lito n 's o u tp ut..
G et a h a rd -wire d ad a pter or
c ab le fr om y o ur p ro fes sio na l
a ud io d e aler , o r ma k e on e

o u r s e l f f r o m c o m p o n e n t s .

22

Using the ModLink

j

j

j

A

The Ampliton can be connected to other effect boxes in the
ModFX family via the ModLink. The ModLink is a cable-free
connection between two ModFX units that transfers digital audio
and word clock. The 9-pin male connector on the left side of the
unit is the ModLink IN port. The 9-pin female connector on the
right side is the ModLink OUT port. By directly connecting two
ModFX units via the ModLink, audio will pass from the left-most
unit to the right-most unit.

Inputs AC adapter Outputs

Master First Slave Second Slave

udio Flow

Connections

What about the 1/4”

acks on the slave

units?

Whe n a u nit is a sla ve to
a no th er un it, its a u dio inp ut

ac ks a r e dis ab le d; it will g et
its a ud io in p ut d ig ita lly fro m
its Mod Lin k p or t. The o u tp ut

ac ks , h owev e r, a re alwa y s
a ctiv e; so a n a ud io ou tp u t
c an b e tap pe d fro m a ny
lin ke d u nit, with ou t
inter ru p ting th e flo w to th e
r es t of th e c ha in .

2

The audio signal flows from left to right. The Master will send its
digital audio output to the First Slave, and the First Slave will, in
turn, send its output to the Second Slave.

23

Connections

2

This page intentionally left blank.

24

3 Using the Ampliton

A

This section defines tremolo and autopan, and explains the
functions of the Ampliton’s controls in greater detail.

The two sides of the Ampliton

The basic operation of the Ampliton couldn’t be simpler. It gives
you access to two different kinds of amplitude-based effects: on
the left side is tremolo, which feeds the autopan on the right side.
Each side is independent of the other, so they can be used alone or
together. The particular type of tremolo is chosen by the switch
on the left, with the rate and depth of tremolo set by the two
knobs on the left. The switch and two knobs on the right control
the Autopan effects. Down the center of the Ampliton are
controls that affect both sides: RESET MOD, TAP TEMPO, the
SIGNAL LED, and the BYPASS switch.

What is Tremolo?

Tremolo is an effect that rapidly changes the volume of a signal up
and down. If you have ever grabbed the volume knob on your
radio and moved it up and down as fast as you could, that was
tremolo. Tremolo first became a common effect on surf guitar in
the 50s and 60s. It also sounds good on electric piano.

m or e tec hn ica l te r m fo r

tre mo lo is a mp litud e
m od ulation—y ou c an
a ch ie ve it o n a s yn the siz er b y
r ou ting a lo w-fre qu e nc y
o sc illa tor ( LFO ) to th e fin al
a mp lifie r sta ge ( VCA). Man y
c la ss ic tu be am ps fe atur e d

What is Autopan?

Autopan is similar to Tremolo, but it changes pan position (the left
and right balance in a stereo field) instead of volume. The
simplest autopan would take a signal and slowly pan it from the
left to the right speaker and back again. However, the Ampliton is
capable of much more complex autopan effects than that, as you
will see later in this chapter.

Autopan is by definition a stereo effect. If the left and right
outputs of the Ampliton aren’t connected to two different amps
and speakers (for example, inline to a mono guitar amplifier),
Autopan will sound like tremolo...as it pans to the side that’s not
connected, the level will go down in the side that is.

Autopan and a stereo input

The Ampliton can take any mono input and turn it into a quasi­stereo output, by panning it from side to side. (In some cases, you
may want to connect only to the left input to get the most
dramatic panning effect.) But Autopan does interesting things
when it receives two different inputs. In Triangle mode, for
example, the left and right inputs will start the cycle panned to the
left output. Then the right input will move towards the right
output; when it gets there the left input will pan towards the right
output, then back again, followed by the right side, sounding as if
they’re “chasing” each other. The best way to learn about how this
works in different modes is to split a keyboard (violin on the right
and flute on the left, for example) and listen to the result on
headphones.

25

Using the Ampliton

I
R

R
f

3

What is Tempo Sync?

Tremolo and Autopan are both rhythmic effects—they have a
beat. Sometimes, you’ll want the rate of the effect to match the
beat of your music instead of being random. For example, you can
set the rate so that the Autopan effect pans from side to side once
per measure, or once per quarter note. The TEMPO SYNC
feature of the Alesis ModFX series not only lets you set a tempo
naturally by tapping on the TAP TEMPO button, it can
automatically adjust its speed slightly relative to a “tapped” audio
input, after setting the basic speed using the TAP button.

To use Tempo Sync:

Both the tremolo and the autopan can be independently set to
TEMPO SYNC mode, as follows:

1. Press the down side of the rocker switch for the tremolo or
autopan to select the next modulation type.

You can see the type of effect by the LED lit next to the name—for
example, TRIANGLE, SQUARE, TRIGGERED and so on.

2. Keep pressing the rocker switch through all the normal modes
until you enter TEMPO SYNC mode, and then advance to the
type of modulation you want.

Both the Mod Type and TEMPO SYNC LEDs will be lit. For
example, if you press the down side of the rocker switch when you’re in
PATTERN mode, the Ampliton will go to TRIANGLE/TEMPO
SYNC mode. At this point, the TAP TEMPO LED will start
flashing at the last speed it was set at (or at the default rate of 120 bpm
if no tempo has been set since the unit was turned on).

3. Tap the [TAP TEMPO] button several times to set the desired
tempo.

The TAP TEMPO LED will flash in time to the hits. As long as
the [RATE] control is in the center position, the tremolo or autopan
speed will match the tempo.

4. If the tempo isn’t quite right, “tap” a steady, discrete beat on
any instrument connected to the input. The internal processor
will then synchronize the tapped tempo with the audio input.
The processor will make slight alterations to the tempo such
that it stays synchronized with the beat of the audio input.

To turn Tempo Sync off:

Simply press the UP side of the [MODULATION] switch
repeatedly until the Tempo Sync LED goes off, then select the
autopan or tremolo mode/waveform you want.

The RATE knob is
different in Tempo
sync mode

n TEMPO S YNC m od e, th e

ATE kn o b ac ts as a
m ultiplier to the s p ee d s et b y
TAP TEMPO, s o y ou c a n’ t
g et the te mp o to ch a ng e
s ligh tly b y a djus tin g th a t
k no b. Note tha t ch a n g e s t o

ATE wo n ’t a ffe ct th e

la sh in g o f the TEMPO LED .

26

Using the Ampliton

F
A

e xa mp le .

Description of Controls

Rate

The [RATE] knobs change the speed of the Ampliton’s effects:

• The [RATE] knob on the left controls how quickly the
Tremolo effect will happen.

• The [RATE] knob on the right controls how quickly the
Autopan effect will happen.

In normal modulation modes (TEMPO SYNC LED off), turning
the [RATE] knobs will smoothly alter the rate from very slow to
very fast. Turn the knobs clockwise for a faster tremolo or
autopan effect.

3

Rate knobs in TEMPO SYNC mode

When an effect is in TEMPO SYNC mode, the fundamental
speed of the effect is set by the TAP TEMPO function, and the
rate knob can be used to adjust that rate to an even fraction or
multiple of the current tempo:

• With the knob indicator in the 12 o’clock position, the mod
rate will be the same as tempo (i.e, quarter note).

•Turn the knob to the left to set the mod rate at a half of the
tempo (i.e., one cycle per half note), then a quarter of the
tempo (once per measure).

•Turn the knob to the right to set the modulation to twice the
tempo (eighth notes), or four times the tempo (sixteenth
notes).

The diagram below shows where you can set the [RATE] knob to
modulate the Ampliton at different multiples of the tempo during
TEMPO SYNC mode.

Depth

The [DEPTH] knobs change the intensity of the tremolo or
autopan effect. As with the [RATE] knobs, the left [DEPTH]
knob affects Tremolo, and the right affects Autopan. A tremolo
with low depth will barely affect the volume of the output, but a
higher depth will cause the volume to drop out completely. A
mono signal going into an autopan with little depth will cause it to
pan slightly, but a greater depth will cause it to pan all the way
from the left to the right output and back again. Turn the knobs
clockwise for a deeper tremolo or autopan effect.

Synchronizing the
Tremolo and Autopan

Whe n bo th effec ts a r e in
TEMPO S YNC m o de , yo u
c an a dju st th e ra te kn ob s o f
e ac h sid e, b u t th ey ’ ll a lwa ys
b e a mu ltiple o f th e s am e
tem po . Tr y s etting th e

utop an Ra te to its slowe st
s etting , a nd th e Tr e mo lo ra te
to th e fas te s t se tting a s a n

To turn one effect off
but leave the other on,
use the DEPTH
knobs:

or e xa m ple, tu rn th e
Tre mo lo de pth k no b full
c ou nter - cloc k wise wh ile
lea ving th e Autop an de pth

27

3

p

y

Using the Ampliton

Tremolo Mode Rocker Switch

The up/down rocker switch beside the Tremolo label on the left
side of the unit selects the type of tremolo effect. The LEDs next
to the switch light up to indicate the current mode. There are
four kinds of Tremolo available, explained below. The rocker
switch also selects TEMPO SYNC mode, as explained earlier.

Triangle

This mode uses a triangle wave for the tremolo effect. Use this
when you want the smooth up-and-down cycle of traditional
tremolo (such as for electric piano or surf guitar).

Square

This mode uses a square wave for the tremolo effect, so the
volume level sharply alternates between two different levels, or
plateaus. If the [DEPTH] knob is turned all the way up, the sound
will jump between on and off once each cycle.

28

Triggered

This is one of the most useful effects in the Ampliton. The
triggered mode selects a triangle wave for the tremolo effect that
will increase its rate for a short interval when a trigger occurs. A
trigger is any sudden increase in the input audio level. Pressing the
[RESET MOD] button will also cause a trigger.

Triggering reacts
directly to your

laying

With a little p ra ctice a n d
s om e ca r eful le ve l a djus tme nt
o f yo ur in str um en t, yo u’ ll
a djus t to th e fee l o f ho w lou d

o u h a v e t o p l a y t o g e n e r a t e
a trigg e r an d s pe e d u p t h e
e ffec t, an d h ow s oft to p la y to
k ee p th e r ate low.

Using the Ampliton

R

p

Pattern

This mode randomly generates a 16-step sequence to modulate the
tremolo or autopan and repeats it over and over. Pattern mode
sometimes makes the level jump quickly from step to step, while
other levels “glide” from step to step. It sounds somewhat like
using “sample and hold” to modulate a VCA on a synthesizer,
except that the pattern repeats regularly until you change the
pattern.

• Press the [RESET MOD] button to generate a new 16-step
pattern.

• Try using the [RATE] knob, or the TEMPO SYNC/TAP
TEMPO features, to make the steps of the pattern play in
sync with your music. Keep in mind that the pattern has 16
steps per 4 beats, so adjust the RATE knob accordingly.

ATE in Pattern

mode

You c an th in k o f Pa tte rn
m od e as be in g 4 x th e r ate o f
Trian gle o r S qu ar e. I n
Tem po S y nc m o de , tu r n th e
[ RATE] k no b full clo ck wis e
( 1/4 sp e ed ) to ge t o ne s tep

er b ea t, th e s am e a s th e
o th er m o d so u rc es a t a 1 2
o ’c lo ck se tting o f [ RATE] .

3

29

3

p

Using the Ampliton

Autopan Mode Rocker Switch

The up/down rocker switch beside the Autopan label on the right
side of the unit selects the type of autopan effect. The LEDs next
to the switch light up to indicate the current mode. There are five
kinds or shapes of Autopan available. Four of these are similar to
the Tremolo modes, except of course they modulate the stereo pan
position instead of the amplitude of the signals.

Triangle

This mode selects a triangle wave for the autopan effect. In
Triangle mode, the sound pans smoothly from side to side at
whatever rate you select.

Square

This mode selects a square wave for the autopan effect so the
position of each signal jumps more sharply from side to side, and
holds its position until it’s time to jump again. If the [DEPTH]
knob is turned all the way up, the sound will jump completely
from side to side once each cycle.

30

Triggered

The triggered mode selects a triangle wave for the autopan effect
that starts out fast when a trigger occurs, then slows down. A
trigger is any sudden increase in the input audio level. So, if you
play a heavy accent on a note, the signals will flutter from side to
side quickly, then slow down. Pressing the [RESET MOD] button
will also cause a trigger.

Triggering with a
volume pedal

With su s ta in e d so un d s, y o u
c an trig ge r the Auto pa n o r
Tre mo lo by u s in g a v olum e

ed al, o r th e v olum e k no b o n
the ins tru me n t itse lf. Try it!

Using the Ampliton

R

I

p

Uncertainty

This mode randomly generates a continually altering waveform for
the autopan.

Pattern

This mode randomly generates a 16-step pattern for the autopan
modulation and repeats it over and over. Pattern mode sometimes
makes the level jump quickly from step to step, while other levels
“glide” from step to step. Another important difference is that
the pattern will repeat regularly until you change the pattern.

• Press the [RESET MOD] button to generate a new 16-step
pattern.

• Try using the [RATE] knob, or the TEMPO SYNC/TAP
TEMPO features, to make the steps of the pattern play in
sync with your music. Keep in mind that the pattern has 16
steps per 4 beats, so adjust the RATE knob accordingly.

When the Autopan is in Pattern mode, the signals will jump
around to varying positions in the stereo field according to the
pattern.

3

ATE in Pattern

mode

You c an th in k o f Pa tte rn
m od e as be in g 4 x th e r ate o f
the o th e r mo d ulatio n s ou r ce s.

n T e m p o S y n c m o d e , t u r n t h e
[ RATE] k no b full clo ck wis e
( 1/4 sp e ed ) to ge t o ne s tep

e r b e a t , t h e s a m e a s S q u a r e
a t a 12 o’ clo ck s ettin g o f
[ RATE].

31

Using the Ampliton

R

I

f
y
f

3

Reset Mod

Press this button to reset the autopan and tremolo modulation as
follows:

• In TRIANGLE and SQUARE modes, press [RESET MOD] to
start the wave from the beginning of its phase.

In Autopan, the wave starts at the right side, then moves to the
center/left. In Tremolo, the wave starts loud, then becomes softer.

• In TRIGGERED mode press this button to generate a trigger
for the modulation (momentarily speeding it up before slowing
back down to the normal rate).

• In PATTERN mode press this button to generate a new 16­step pattern.

ate settings are
crucial in Triggered
modes

f th e r ate is to o s lo w to be gin
with, th e in c re as e in sp e ed
whe n yo u g en e ra te a tr ig g er
m ay n ot be n o tice ab le, e v en i

o u u s e t h e R E S E T M O D

ea tu re .

32

Using the Ampliton

Tap Tempo

This button affects the speed of the effect whenever the tremolo
and/or autopan is set to TEMPO SYNC mode. In that mode, you
can tap this button along with the music to set a new tempo. The
Tap Tempo light will flash at the current tempo.

3

Tap Tempo technique

For a reliable tempo setting, make from four to eight taps in a row
at a consistent speed, especially if you’re changing the tempo
drastically. Watch the flashing of the light to see what tempo the
Ampliton is currently at.

Adjusting tempo with audio input

After the basic tempo has been set using the [TAP TEMPO]
button, it is possible to make small adjustments to the tempo via
the audio input. You do this by “tapping” on the instrument
(playing sharp chords, or beats, without sustain or notes
inbetween) at almost the same speed as the Ampliton’s tempo
LED, or by slightly changing the speed of a drum machine feeding
the inputs. The Ampliton can derive a beat from a complex
musical input, as long as it is reasonably close to the original
“tapped” tempo. The tempo can adjust up or down about 15%
from the original tempo tapped in.

How Tap Tempo works with Tempo Sync and
the Rate knobs

When TEMPO SYNC mode is enabled, the rate of the modulation
will be based on the tempo currently being flashed, multiplied by
the position of its [RATE] knob: when it’s in the middle position
(around “12 o’clock”), the speed of the triangle, square, pattern
etc. wave will be the same as the tempo. See the earlier
descriptions of the [RATE] knob and Tempo Sync for more
information.

To get fast
modulations...

it is n’ t n ec e ss ar y to ta p a t a
h ig h sp e ed if y ou wa nt th e
e ffec t to mo d ulate a t eig hth or
s ix te en th no tes . J u st ta p on
the q ua rter - no t e b e at, the n
tur n th e [ RATE] k no b to the
r ig ht to d ou b le o r q ua dr u ple
the s pe e d ma d e by Ta p
Tem po .

33

Using the Ampliton

3

Bypass

This button sends the signal directly from the input to the output
without any effect. Press [BYPASS] to check the sound of the
source without any effect from the Ampliton. When the red
BYPASS LED is lit, both Tremolo and Autopan are off. The
Bypass function can also be activated by the foot switch.

Since the Ampliton is a digital effect, signal always passes through
the digital A/D–D/A conversion process, so that digital signal will
flow through to other effects in a ModLink chain even when
[BYPASS] is on. So, unlike old analog effects, this is not a
“hardwire” bypass switch—the Ampliton must be powered on to
pass signal through, even in bypass mode. Similarly, the [TRIM]
control is always active, since it’s an analog control regulating the
level feeding the analog-to-digital converters.

Using the Foot Switch

If you need to bypass the effect totally but your hands aren’t free,
simply connect any momentary footswitch (such as those used for
keyboard sustain pedals, either NC normally closed or NO
normally open) to the [FOOT SWITCH] jack on the rear panel.
The footswitch will turn the BYPASS LED on and off.

34

4 Sample Settings

A

M

A

While there’s nothing like discovering new sounds for yourself, we
thought it would be a good idea to provide some sample settings
of the Ampliton to help get you started. Simply set the knobs on
your Ampliton so they’re at the positions shown, and press the
rocker switches so each effect is in the mode shown by the LEDs.
Feel free to modify these any way you want to suit your particular
playing style.

Classic Tremolo

c la ss ic se tting fo r gu ita rs
a nd e le c tr ic pian os , this
" pa tc h" us es a tr ia n gle wav e
to ge ne r ate a r an do m -s pe e d
tre mo lo , with n o a utop an .

aster Pan

s lo w, ma je s tic a utop an
e ffec t, with no tre m olo.

35

Sample Settings

D

A

A
f

K

M

p

4

round the World

This se tting will m a ke th e
s ou nd r e vo lv e a ro un d y ou r
h ea d. Both Tre mo lo an d

utop an ar e s yn ch ro n iz ed at

ull de p th . Us e [TAP
TEMPO ] to ma tch the sp ee d
to yo ur mu sic , an d
e xp er im e nt with c ha n ging th e
[ RATE] o f eithe r sid e.

J Transform

This is a DJ tr an sfo rm
( ga ting ) e ffe ct in tim e with th e
m us ic a t 1 6
U se [ BYPAS S] to tog g le th e
e ffec t o n an d o ff o n c ue .

t h

no te in te rv a ls .

aleidophone

ov es a u dio in, o ut, left, an d

r ig ht in a c o mp le x r ep ea tin g

a t t e r n in time with the
m us ic . Pr es s [ RESET MOD ]
to ge ne r ate a n ew p a tter n .

36

Sample Settings

B

F

Spin the Wheel

Tre mo lo star ts fa st, e nd s
s lo w, a n d yo u n ev er kn ow
q uite wh er e the p an will en d
u p. Tr igg er off th e a ud io
inp ut o r p re s s [RES ET MO D ]
to tr ig g er it m an ua lly

lank

ill in yo ur own fa v or ite
s etting s h er e . Pho toc op y the
n ex t pa g e if yo u ne e d mo r e
s pa ce .

4

37

Sample Settings

4

Blank templates

38

5 Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting Index

If you experience problems while operating your Ampliton, please
use the following table to locate possible causes and solutions
before contacting Alesis Product Support for assistance.

Symptoms Cause Solution

No audio output s. No input aud io(SIG NAL

[TAP T EMPO] button is
not working

Mod Linked units are n ot
working p roperly

Distorted sound

Distortio n when you leave
TEM PO SYN C mode

Buz z or h um fro m
out puts

LED doesn ’t flash).
Bad cables.Rep lace t he cab les.
Destination is turned

down.

Inp ut Trim knob is tu rned
down

Inp ut cab les are conn ected
to a linked unit

Power is no t conn ected Go take a walk
Neither T remolo nor

Aut opan are in Tempo
Syn c mode

Power dropo ut to one of
the units in th e chain

Inp ut level too h igh
(SIGNAL LED on fro nt
pan el flashes red)

RATE set at a hig h speed,
to a poin t where it sounds
like ring modulation

[RATE] knob is set high
to get 4x the T ap Tem po
rat e; when you go back to
a n ormal mode, the RATE
jum ps up high and sounds
like dist ortion

Aud io cab les are crossing a
power cable or a power
adapter.

Bad cables Rep lace t he cab les

Test with a known good
inp ut.

Check the connections
and the level of th e mixer
or amp th at the Ampliton
is connected to .

Adjust th e knob to th e
pro per level.

Con nect t he inp ut cab les
to the Master o f the link
chain

Select Tempo Sync mod e
on Tremolo or Autopan

Plug in a power supply to
ever y unit in a chain.

Turn down the so urce, or
the TRIM cont rol on th e
Amp liton’s back panel.

Turn down the RATE
kno b (below about “ 3
o’clock”)

Red uce th e [RATE]
set ting

Make sure that t he
Amp liton and it s audio
cab les are kept away fro m
power cables and wall
warts.
Don ’t wrap cable in t ight
bun dles.

39

Troubleshooting

5

Symptoms Cause Solution

Pro blem w ith th e source Try bypassing t he

AC hum Gro und lo op Place all equip ment in the

Amp liton by con nectin g
the input cables to t he
out put cables and see if
the problem rem ains.

studio on a com mon
gro und (see next page) .

40

Troubleshooting

Avoiding ground loop noise

In today’s studio, where it seems every piece of equipment has its
own computer chip inside, there are many opportunities for
ground loop problems to occur. These show up as hums, buzzes
or sometimes radio reception and can occur if a piece of
equipment "sees" two or more different paths to ground. While
there are methods to virtually eliminate ground loops and stray
radio frequency interference, most of the professional methods are
expensive and involve installing a separate power source just for
the sound system. Alternatively, here are some helpful hints that
professional studio installers use to keep those stray hums and
buzzes to a minimum.

KEEP ALL ELECTRONICS OF THE SOUND
SYSTEM ON THE SAME AC ELECTRICAL
CIRCUIT.

Most stray hums and buzzes happen as a result of different parts
of the sound system being plugged into outlets of different AC
circuits. If any noise generating devices such as air conditioners,
refrigerators, neon lights, etc., are already plugged into one of these
circuits, you then have a perfect condition for stray buzzes. Since
most electronic devices of a sound system don’t require a lot of
current (except for power amplifiers), it’s usually safe to run a
multi-outlet box or two from a SINGLE wall outlet and plug in all
of the components of your system there.

5

KEEP AUDIO WIRING AS FAR AWAY FROM AC
WIRING AS POSSIBLE.

Many hums come from audio cabling being too near AC wiring.
If a hum occurs, try moving the audio wiring around to see if the
hum ceases or diminishes. If it’s not possible to separate the audio
and AC wiring in some instances, make sure that the audio wires
don’t run parallel to any AC wire (they should only cross at right
angles, if possible).

TO ELIMINATE HUM IF THE ABOVE HAS FAILED:

1. Disconnect the power from all outboard devices and
tape machines except for the Ampliton, the mixer and
control room monitor power amp.

2. Plug in each tape machine and outboard effects device
one at a time. If possible, flip the polarity of the plug of
each device (turn it around in the socket) until the
quietest position is found.

3. Make sure that all of the audio cables are in good
working order. Cables with a detached ground wire will
cause a very loud hum!!

4. Keep all cables as short as possible, especially in
unbalanced circuits.

41

Troubleshooting

5

If the basic experiments don’t uncover the source of the problem,
consult your dealer or technician trained in proper studio
grounding techniques. In some cases, a "star grounding" scheme
must be used, with the mixer at the center of the star providing the
shield ground on telescoping shields, which do NOT connect to
the chassis ground of other equipment in the system.

Line conditioners and spike protectors

Although the Ampliton is designed to tolerate typical voltage
variations, in today’s world the voltage coming from the AC line
may contain spikes or transients. These can cause audible noises,
and they can stress your gear and, over time, possibly cause a
failure. There are three main ways to protect against this, listed in
ascending order of cost and complexity:

• Line spike/surge protectors. Relatively inexpensive,
these are designed to protect against strong surges and
spikes, acting somewhat like fuses in that they need to
be replaced if they’ve been hit by an extremely strong
spike.

• Line filters. These generally combine spike/surge
protection with filters that remove some line noise
(dimmer hash, transients from other appliances, etc.). A
good example is the Isobar™ series from Tripp Lite.

• Uninterruptible power supply (UPS). This is the
most sophisticated option. A UPS provides power even
if the AC power line fails completely. Intended for
computer applications, a UPS allows you to complete an
orderly shutdown of a computer system in the event of a
power outage. In addition, the isolation it provides
from the power line minimizes all forms of
interference—spikes, noise, etc.

42

Troubleshooting

Care and Maintenance

Cleaning

Disconnect the AC cord, then use a damp cloth to clean the
Ampliton’s metal and plastic surfaces. For heavy dirt, use a non­abrasive household cleaner such as Formula 409™ or Fantastik™.
DO NOT SPRAY THE CLEANER DIRECTLY ONTO THE
FRONT OF THE UNIT AS IT MAY DESTROY THE
LUBRICANTS USED IN THE SWITCHES AND CONTROLS!
Spray onto a cloth, then use cloth to clean the unit.

Refer all servicing to Alesis

We believe that the Ampliton is one of the best signal processors
that can be made using current technology, and should provide
years of trouble-free use. However, should problems occur, DO
NOT attempt to service the unit yourself unless you have training
and experience. Service on this product should be performed only
by qualified technicians. NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS
INSIDE.

5

43

Troubleshooting

5

Obtaining repair service

Before contacting Alesis, check over all your connections, and
make sure you’ve read the manual.

Customers in the USA and Canada:

If the problem persists, contact Alesis and request the Product
Support department. Make sure you have the unit’s serial number
with you. Talk the problem over with one of our technicians; if
necessary, you will be given a return order (RO) number and
instructions on how to return the unit. All units must be shipped
prepaid and COD shipments will not be accepted.

For prompt service, indicate the RO number on the shipping label.
Units without an RO will not be accepted. If you do not have
the original packing, ship the unit in a sturdy carton, with shock­absorbing materials such as Styrofoam pellets (the kind without
CFCs, please) or "bubble-pack" surrounding the unit. Shipping
damage caused by inadequate packing is not covered by the Alesis
warranty.

Tape a note to the top of the unit describing the problem, include
your name and a phone number where Alesis can contact you if
necessary, as well as instructions on where you want the product
returned. Alesis will pay for standard one-way shipping back to
you on any repair covered under the terms of this warranty. Field
repairs are not authorized during the warranty period, and repair
attempts by unqualified personnel may invalidate the warranty.

Customers outside the USA and Canada:

Contact your local Alesis distributor for any warranty assistance.
The Alesis Limited Warranty applies only to products sold to users
in the USA and Canada. Customers outside of the USA and
Canada are not covered by this Limited Warranty and may or may
not be covered by an independent distributor warranty in the
country of sale. Do not return products to the factory unless you
have been given specific instructions to do so.

44

Specifications

A

Audio Input

Input Connectors: 2 unbalanced 1/4” jacks

Maximum Input Level: +10 dBV

Nominal Level: -10 dBV

Input Impedance: 470kΩ

Input Converter Resolution: 24-bit, 48 kHz sampling

Audio Output

Output Connectors: 2 unbalanced 1/4” jacks

Maximum Output Level: +9 dBV

Output Impedance: 500Ω

Output Converter Resolution: 24-bit, 48 kHz sampling

Audio Performance

(Analog In to Analog Out)

Signal To Noise Ratio: >100 dB A-weighted

THD+N: < 0.005%

Frequency Response: ± 1dB from 22Hz to 22kHz

Internal DSP Resolution: 28-bit

ll m ea s ur em e nts do n e ov e r
a 2 2H z – 2 2k H z ra ng e with a
1 kH z sin e wa v e at - 1 dBFS
inp ut. I mp ed a nc es ar e
m ea su re d a t 1 kH z.

Power Consumption: 7 Watts max (9VAC Alesis P3)

Mechanical

Size: 2.1” H x 5.8” W x 3.9” D

Weight: 12.6oz. (357 g)

(53mm H x 148mm W x
98mm D)

45

Specifications

6

This page intentionally left blank.

46

Index

amplifier, 21
AUTOPAN, 25

switch, 16
Autopan switch, 30
BYPASS, 16, 34

with foot switch, 34
cables, 22
DEPTH, 16, 27
digital converters, 34, 45
DSP, 45
Effect Send/Return, 20
FOOT SWITCH, 16, 34
Ground Loop, 41
grounding, 7
guitar, 18
Hums and buzzes, 41
INPUTS, 15
INPUTS and OUTPUTS, 16
Insert Cables, 19
levels, 22
LFO, 25
mixing console

hookup, 20
ModLink, 16, 23
OUTPUTS, 15

on ModLink slave units, 23

Pattern, 29, 31
power adapter, 17
Power cable, 7
Rack mounting, 17

RATE, 16, 27
Reset Mod, 16, 32

in Triggered Mode, 28
Safety, 7
SIGNAL LED, 15, 16, 18, 22
Square, 28, 30
stereo, 18

effects, 25
Tap Tempo, 16, 26, 33
Tempo Sync, 26

effect on RATE knob, 27
transformers, 22
TREMOLO, 25

switch, 16
Tremolo switch, 28
Triangle, 28, 30
Triggered, 28, 30

by RESET MOD, 32
TRIM, 15, 16, 18

active in bypass mode, 34
Uncertainty, 31
XLR, 22

47

Warranty / Contact Alesis

F

Alesis Limited Warranty

ALESI S CORPORATI ON ("ALES IS") war rants this product to be free of defects
in material and workmanship for a perio d of one (1) year for parts and for a period of
one (1) year for labor from the date of original retail purchase. This warranty is
enforceable only by the original retail purc haser and cannot be t ransferre d or assigned.
For the most effective service, the pu rchaser should re gi ster the purchase o n the
ALESI S website at http://www.alesis.com/support/warranty.htm.
Duri ng the warranty period ALESIS shall, at its sole and absolute option, either repair
or replace free of charge any product th at proves to be defecti ve on ins pection b y
ALESI S or its aut horized service representative. In all cases disputes co ncerning this
warranty shall be resolved as prescribed by law.
To ob tain warra nty service, the purchaser must first call or write ALESIS at th e
address and tel ephone number av ailable on the Alesis Website to obtain a Return
Autho rization Num ber and i nst ructions concerning where to return the unit for
service. All inquiries must be accom panied by a descripti on of the problem. All
autho rized returns must b e sent to ALESIS o r an authorize d ALESIS repair facili ty
postage prepaid, insured and properly packaged. Proof of purchase must be
presented in the form of a bill of sale, cance led check or some oth er positi ve proof
that the product is within the warranty period. ALESIS reserves the r ight to update
any u nit returned for repair. ALESIS reser ves the righ t to change or improve design
of the p roduct at any time without prior notice.
This war ranty does not cover claims for damage due t o abuse, neglect, alt eration or
atte mpted repair by unauthorized personnel, and is limited to failures arising during
normal use that are due to defects in material or workmanship in the product.
THE ABOVE WARRANTIE S ARE IN LIEU OF ANY OTHER
WAR RA NT IE S O R R EPRESENTATIONS WHETHER EXPRESS OR
IMPLIED OR OTHERWISE, WITH RESPECT TO THE PRODUCT, AND
SPECIFICALLY EXCLUDE ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF FITNESS
FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR MER CHANTABILITY OR OTHER
IMPLIED WARRANTIES. Some states do not allow limitations on how long an
implied warranty lasts, so the above limitation may no t apply to you.
IN NO EVENT WILL ALESIS BE LIABLE FOR INCIDENTAL,
CONSEQUENTI AL, INDIR ECT OR OTHER DAMAGES R ESULTING
FROM THE BREACH OF ANY EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTY,
INCLUDING, AMONG OTHER THI NGS, DAMAGE TO PROPERTY,
DAMAGE BASE D ON INCO NVENIENCE OR ON LOS S OF USE OF THE
PRODUCT, AND, TO THE EXTENT PERM ITTED BY LAW, DAMAGES
FOR PERSONAL INJURY. Some states do not allow the exclusion or li mitation of
incidental or consequential damages, so the above limi tatio n or exclusion may not
apply to you.
THIS CONTRACT SHALL BE GOVERNED BY THE INTERNAL LAWS
OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA WITHOUT REFERENCE TO
CONFLICTS OF LAWS. This warranty gives you speci fic le gal rights, and you may
also have other rights require d by law which vary from state to state.
This war ranty only applies to products sold to purchasers in the United States of
America or Canada. The terms of this warranty and any obligations of Alesis under
this warranty shall apply only within the count ry of sale. Without limiting the
foregoing, repairs under this warranty shall be made only by a duly authorized Alesis
service representative in the count ry of sale. For warranty information in all other
count ries please re fer to your local distributor.

or more effective
service and product
update notices, please
register your Ampliton
online at:

http://www.alesis.com/
support/warranty.htm

48

Warranty/Contact Information

Alesis Contact Information

Alesis Studio Electronics
Los Angeles, CA USA

E-mail: [email protected]
Website: http://www.alesis.com

Alesis Ampliton Reference Manual
Revision 1.0 by Alex Souppa & Dan Tinen

Copyright 2002, Alesis. All rights reserved
Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited. Specifications
subject to change without notice. Trademarks are the property of
their respective holders.

7-51-0110-A
8/2002

49