Alesis MODFX PHILTRE User Manual
Reference Manual
This page intentionally left blank
10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
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.
7-51-0119-A
8/2002
Table of Contents
Introduction....................................................................3
Welcome! .........................................................................................................3
About the Philtre ...........................................................................4
Important features of your Philtre..............................................................4
Philtre 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 Aux Send/Return of a mixing console: ....................21
Connecting to the inserts on an instrument amplifier: ............................22
Connecting to equipment with XLR inputs and outputs:.......................23
About audio cables.........................................................................................23
Using the ModLink........................................................................24
Using the Philtre ..........................................................25
What is filtering?............................................................................ 25
Filter curves, orders, and slopes ..................................................................26
Modulating the filter frequency ...................................................................26
What is Tempo Sync? ....................................................................................27
To turn Tempo Sync off: ..............................................................................27
Description of Controls...............................................................28
Rate ...................................................................................................................28
Depth................................................................................................................29
Phreeq...............................................................................................................29
Regen ................................................................................................................30
TYPE Rocker Switch.....................................................................................36
Steep..................................................................................................................38
Reset Mod........................................................................................................38
Tap Tempo......................................................................................................39
Bypass...............................................................................................................40
Using the Foot Switch...................................................................................40
Sample Settings.............................................................41
Blank Settings Templates..............................................................................44
Troubleshooting............................................................45
1
Table Of Contents
Troubleshooting Index................................................................ 45
Avoiding ground loop noise.........................................................................47
Line conditioners and spike protectors ......................................................48
Care and Maintenance ................................................................ 49
Cleaning............................................................................................................49
Refer all servicing to Alesis...........................................................................49
Obtaining repair service ................................................................................50
Specifications.................................................................51
Audio Input.....................................................................................................51
Audio Output..................................................................................................51
Audio Performance........................................................................................51
Mechanical.......................................................................................................51
Index...................................................................................53
Warranty/Contact Alesis ...........................................54
Alesis Limited Warranty................................................................................54
Alesis Contact Information ..........................................................................55
2
Introduction
F
Welcome!
Thank you for making the Alesis Philtre 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.
Sincerely,
The people of Alesis
or more effective
service and product
update notices, please
register your Philtre
online at:
www.alesis.com/
support/
warranty.htm
3
Introduction
About the Philtre
Your new Philtre is a member of the Alesis ModFX family of
performance effects boxes. This particular ModFX unit is a filter
effect with modulation.
Each ModFX unit 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 Philtre
High Resolution Processing
The Philtre 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 hook up without needing
patch cords between units in 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
The Philtre features configurable modulation. The user can
control the shape, rate, and depth of the modulation, and it can be
triggered by the audio input itself. The rate of modulation can be
synchronized to the tempo, both by tap tempo and by audio input.
4
Philtre Key Features
• Four different filter types, with steep slope switch and
adjustable regeneration
• Five different modulation sources, including Trigger and
Envelope for note-by-note filter sweeping
• Tempo synchronization keeps filter effect in time with the
music
• Tap Tempo makes it easy to set the speed of modulation by
tapping a beat on the top panel
• Uniform, friendly, uncomplicated user interface—no fiddling
with complicated menus or “hidden” knobs
• 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 Philtre. 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 Philtre 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
Philtre to a variety of typical audio systems. It also discusses the
process of linking the Philtre with other ModFX devices.
Chapter 3: Using the Philtre explains the controls of the Philtre 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 ind ic ate s th a t
this in for ma tio n is vita l whe n
o pe ra tin g th e Philtr e.
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
This page intentionally left blank.
14
1 Quick Start Guide
I
p
p
If you can’t wait to get started
The Alesis Philtre 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 Philtre
right away. If you have questions about any of the features, don’t
worry – later chapters will unveil the mysteries of the Philtre'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 Philtre 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
Philtre.
4. Connect the OUTPUTS of the Philtre to the inputs of a
mixer, powered speakers, or instrument amplifier.
5. Insert the power jack of the Philtre’s power adapter into
the POWER 9VAC input on the rear panel of the
Philtre 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 Philtre 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 Philtre’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 Philtre
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
Philtre to create different sounds.
For more detailed information on connecting the Philtre, see
chapter 2: Connections.
15
Quick Start Guide
1
A quick overview of the controls
TYPE
The TYPE s witch s ele cts the
k in d of filte r as s h own b y th e
LED s ne x t to th e switc h. S ee
p ag e 3 6.
REG EN
( re ge ne r atio n)
This in c re as e s
g ain at th e
filte r c or ne r for
a s ha rp e r filte r
p ea k. I n Ba n d
m od es it a ls o
s ets th e wid th
o f th e b an d.
PHREEQ
D eter min es th e
fre qu en c y
c en te r o r
c or ne r o f th e filte r .
Rear Panel
Plu g th e p owe r ad ap ter in
h er e.
STEEP
This in c re as e s th e s lo pe of the
c ho se n filte r c ur ve s .
Res et Mo d
Retar ts th e m od ulation fr om
the b eg inn in g o f its c yc le.
G en er ate s a trigg er in
TRI GG E RED m od e, o r
c ha ng es th e p atte rn in
PATTERN mo de .
BYPASS le ts s ign al pa ss
thr ou gh with o ut a ny filte ring .
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 TEMPO
Activ e in TEMPO S YNC
m od e
o nly. Tap a re gu la r
b ea t on th is bu tton , a nd th e
m od s pe e d of th e Ph iltre will
b e se t a t so m e mu ltiple o f th at
b ea t, a s s et by the RATE
k no bs .
MOD ULATI ON
SELECT s witc h s elec ts
the typ e o f wav e us e d to
m od ulate the filter
fre qu en c y.
The RATE
k no b affec ts
the m od u la tio n
s pe ed , in
c oo pe ra tio n
with th e
TEMPO S YNC
a nd TAP
TEMPO
b utto ns . Se e
p ag e3 9.
D EPTH
c on tr ols the
d ep th o f the
m od ulation .
SIG NAL LED
Whe n th is lig hts gr e en , the
Philtre is g e ttin g a n in p ut
s ig na l. Whe n it’ s r ed , it’ s
s ee in g too m u ch lev e l, s o tur n
d own th e ins tru me nt ...
...or th e TRI M co ntro l h er e
o n th e b ac k p an el.
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 . Plug sing le - ch an n el
d ev ic e s i n to th e
LEFT/MO NO in p ut.
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.
Loading...