Alesis MODFX SMASHUP User Manual

Reference Manual

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7-51-0121-A 8/2002

Table of Contents

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

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

About the Smashup....................................................................... 4

Important features of your Smashup.........................................................4

Smashup 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 inserts on an instrument amplifier: ............................20

Connecting to equipment with XLR inputs and outputs:.......................21

About audio cables.........................................................................................21

Using the ModLink........................................................................22

Using the Smashup......................................................23

What is a compressor?.................................................................23

What the controls do .....................................................................................24

How the Smashup goes beyond “just compression”...............................25

Operational advice........................................................................ 26

Gain structure .................................................................................................26

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

Threshold.........................................................................................................27

Attack................................................................................................................28

Look Ahead.....................................................................................................28

Release..............................................................................................................28

Output ..............................................................................................................29

Sizzle.................................................................................................................29

Type Select Switch..........................................................................................30

Bypass...............................................................................................................32

Using the Foot Switch...................................................................................32

Sample Settings.............................................................33

Blank Settings Templates..............................................................................36

Troubleshooting............................................................37

Troubleshooting Index................................................................ 37

Avoiding ground loop noise.........................................................................39

Table Of Contents

Line conditioners and spike protectors ......................................................40

Care and Maintenance ................................................................41

Cleaning............................................................................................................41

Refer all servicing to Alesis...........................................................................41

Obtaining repair service ................................................................................42

Specifications.................................................................43

Audio Input.....................................................................................................43

Audio Output..................................................................................................43

Audio Performance........................................................................................43

Mechanical.......................................................................................................43

Index...................................................................................45

Warranty/Contact Alesis ...........................................46

Alesis Limited Warranty................................................................................46

Alesis Contact Information ..........................................................................47

Introduction

Welcome!

Thank you for making the Alesis Smashup 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 Smashup online at:

http://www.alesis.com/supp ort/warranty.htm

Introduction

About the Smashup

Your new Smashup is a member of the Alesis ModFX family of performance effects boxes. This particular ModFX unit is a deluxe compressor with the ability to model several different types of compression.

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 products are perfect for keyboardists, guitarists, and any other studio or live performance artists.

Important features of your Smashup

High resolution processing

The Smashup 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 between units in a 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.

Selectable compression types

Capitalizing on the unique capabilities of Alesis’s digital signal processing techniques, the Smashup is able to sound like several different types of classic analog compressors. Adjustable attack and release controls, plus unique “look ahead” and “sizzle” features, make this compressor uniquely suited to the needs of guitarists, bassists, remix engineers, and producers.

Smashup Key Features

• Digital emulation of six different kinds of analog

compression

• Adjustable threshold, attack, release, and output level

• Look Ahead feature anticipates upcoming peaks for

compression before they’re processed

• Sizzle feature keeps clarity and punch even with extreme

compression settings

• Uniform, friendly, uncomplicated user interface—no fiddling

with complicated menus or “hidden” knobs

• 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

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 Smashup. 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 Smashup 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 Smashup to a variety of typical audio systems. It also discusses the process of linking the Smashup with other ModFX devices.

Chapter 3: Using the Smashup explains the controls of the Smashup 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 S ma sh u p.

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

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.

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.

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.

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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.

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

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.

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