Lexicon PCM81 Owner's Manual

PCM 81

Digital Effects Processor User Guide

A Harman International Company

UNPACKING AND INSPECTION

This triangle, which appears on your component,

alerts you to the presence of uninsulated,

dangerous voltage inside the enclosure -

voltage that may be sufficient to

constitute a risk of shock.

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

This triangle, which appears on your component,

alerts you to important operating and

maintenance instructions in this

accompanying literature.

After unpacking the PCM 81, save all packing materials in case you ever need to ship the unit. Thoroughly inspect the PCM 81 and packing materials for signs
of damage. Report any shipment damage to the carrier at once; report equipment malfunction to your dealer.

PRECAUTIONS

Save these instructions for later use.

Follow all instructions and warnings marked on the unit.

Always use with the correct line voltage. Refer to the manufacturer's operating instructions for power requirements. Be advised that different operating voltages
may require the use of a different line cord and/or attachment plug.

Do not install the unit in an unventilated rack, or directly above heat producing equipment such as power amplifiers. Observe the maximum ambient operating
temperature listed in the product specification.

Slots and openings on the case are provided for ventilation; to ensure reliable operation and prevent it from overheating, these openings must not be blocked
or covered. Never push objects of any kind through any of the ventilation slots. Never spill a liquid of any kind on the unit.

This product is equipped with a 3-wire grounding type plug. This is a safety feature and should not be defeated.

Never attach audio power amplifier outputs directly to any of the unit's connectors.

To prevent shock or fire hazard, do not expose the unit to rain or moisture, or operate it where it will be exposed to water.

Do not attempt to operate the unit if it has been dropped, damaged, exposed to liquids, or if it exhibits a distinct change in performance indicating the need
for service.

This unit should only be opened by qualified service personnel. Removing covers will expose you to hazardous voltages.

NOTICE

This equipment generates and uses radio frequency energy and if not installed and used properly, that is, in strict accordance with the
manufacturer's instructions, may cause interference to radio and television reception. It has been type tested and found to comply with the
limits for a Class B computing device in accordance with the specifications in Part 15 of FCC Rules, which are designated to provide
reasonable protection against such interference in a residential installation. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in
a particular installation. If this equipment does cause 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 the receiving antenna
Relocate the computer with respect to the receiver
Move the computer away from the receiver
Plug the computer into a different outlet so that the computer and receiver are on different branch circuits.

If necessary, the user should consult the dealer or an experienced radio/television technician for additional suggestions. The user may find the
following booklet prepared by the Federal Communications Commission helpful:

"How to identify and Resolve Radio/TV Interference Problems."

This booklet is available from the U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402, Stock No. 004-000-00345-4.

Le présent appareil numérique n'émet pas de bruits radioélectriques dépassant les limites applicables aux appareils numériques de la class B
prescrites dans le Règlement sur le brouillage radioélectrique édicté par le ministère des Communications du Canada.

A Harman International Company

Lexicon, Inc.
3 Oak Park
Bedford, MA 01730-1441 USA
Tel [phone]
Fax [phone]
www.lexicon.com

Customer Support

Tel [phone]
Fax [phone] (Sales)
Fax [phone] (Service)

Lexicon Part No. 070-12614 | Rev 2 | 09/01

© 2001 Lexicon, Inc. All rights reserved.

This document should not be construed as a commitment on the part of Lexicon, Inc. The information it contains is subject to change without notice. Lexicon, Inc.
assumes no responsibility for errors that may appear within this document.

Introduction

DKFINOSEDEESFR

IT

Lexicon

Introduction

Vigtig information om sikkerhed .....................................iv

Tärkeitä turvallisuusohjeita...............................................iv

Viktig informasjon om sikkerhet .......................................v

Viktiga säkerhetsföreskrifter ..............................................v

Wichtige Sicherheitsanweisungen....................................vi

Instrucciones importantes de seguridad ..........................vi

Instructions de Sûreté Importantes .................................vii

Importanti norme di sicurezza ........................................vii

Section 1: Getting Started

About the PCM 81....................................................................1-2

The Presets • The Algorithms • Tempo Control • Editing •
Memory Cards • User Interface

Front Panel Overview ................................................................1-4

Rear Panel Overview..................................................................1-6

Block Diagram...........................................................................1-8

Installation Notes ......................................................................1-9

Mounting • Power Requirements • Audio Connections •
Control Connections • Connectors • Setting Audio Levels •
Configurations • Memory Cards

Section 2: Basic Operation

Modes of Operation..................................................................2-2

Navigating a Matrix • Go or Pro • Info

Control Mode ...........................................................................2-5

Row 0 Audio • Row 1 System • Row 2 Card • Row 3 MIDI •
Row 4 Setup • Row 5 Mapx • Row 6 Chain

Section 2: Basic Operation

Program and Register Banks....................................................2-17

Selecting Effects

Tempo Mode ..........................................................................2-19

The Tempo Mode Matrix • Row 0 Tempo • Row 1 Tap

Editing an Effect......................................................................2-21

The Soft Knob • The Soft Row • Compare • Bypass • Store
Operations • The Full Edit Matrix • Patching

Section 3: Algorithms and Parameters

About the Algorithms................................................................3-2

The 4-Voice Algorithms.............................................................3-2

Concert Hall • Plate • Chamber • Inverse • Infinite

The 6-Voice Algorithms.............................................................3-9

Glide>Hall • Chorus+Rvb • M-Band+Rvb

The Resonant Chord Algorithms..............................................3-13

Res1>Plate and Res2>Plate

The Parameters .......................................................................3-15

Chorus • Controls • Delay Time • Feedback/Cross Feedback •
Filters • Glide FX • Levels • Modulation • Panning • Patching •
Pitch • Resonance • Rvb Design • Rvb Time

The Pitch Algorithms...............................................................3-33

About the Pitch Algorithms • About Pitch Shifting • Quad>
Hall • Dual-Chamb • Dual-Plt • Dual-Inv • Stereo-Chmb •
VSO-Chmb • The Pitch Parameters

Using the Submixer.................................................................3-45

Sends • Returns • Routing • Useful Configurations

Rvb and FX Block Controls ......................................................3-52

The Pitch Correct Algorithm....................................................3-54

The Pitch Correct Parameters

(continued)

ii

PCM 81

Introduction

Section 4: Presets

Overview...................................................................................4-2

Program Bank 0 (P0).................................................................4-3

Multi Effects • Modulation Effects • Special Effects

Program Bank 1 (P1).................................................................4-8

Rhythmic Echo and Delay Effects • Ambience Effects

Program Bank 2 (P2)...............................................................4-13

EQ Effects • Spatial Effects • Gain Effects • Resonant Chord
Effects

Program Bank 3 (P3)...............................................................4-19

Reverb Effects • Processed Reverb Effects • Remix Effects

Program Bank 4 (P4)...............................................................4-24

Vocal Shift • Vocal Harmony • Guitar Magic • Instrument Shift
& Harmony • Percussion & Tempo

Program Bank 5 (P5)...............................................................4-29

Sci-Fi FX • Pitch & Delay • Pitch Sequences • Pads & Drones •
Utility Programs • Pitch Correct

Alphabetical Index of Presets...................................................4-34

Section 5: MIDI Operation

Selecting a MIDI Channel..........................................................5-2

Accessing Programs and Registers.............................................5-2

Controlling Tempo Rate with MIDI Clock..................................5-3

MIDI Tempo Control • Using the PCM 81 as a MIDI Clock
Source • Slaving Two or More PCM 81s

Controller Quirks.......................................................................5-4

The ADJUST Knob, Foot Pedal, Foot SW1, and Foot SW 2 as MIDI

Controllers ................................................................................5-4

Controlling the Soft Knob with MIDI • Controlling the Soft
Knob with a Foot Pedal

Program Change Messages .......................................................5-5

Section 5: MIDI Operation

Automation...............................................................................5-6

SysEx Automation • Controller Automation • Reset All
Controllers • MIDI Clock and Clock Commands • PCM 90
Compatibility • Dynamic MIDI

Bulk Data Dumps ......................................................................5-8

MIDI Implementation Chart ......................................................5-8

Section 6: Troubleshooting

Low Voltage..............................................................................6-2

Overheating..............................................................................6-2

Common MIDI Problems...........................................................6-2

Operational Problems................................................................6-3

No Input • No Digital Audio Output • No Effects Output

Power On Behavior ...................................................................6-3

Restoring Factory Default Settings.............................................6-3

Reinitialization...........................................................................6-4

Appendix

Specifications ............................................................................A-2

Declaration of Conformity.........................................................A-4

(continued)

iii

Introduction

DKDKFI

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Lexicon

DANSK

VIGTIG INFORMATION OM SIKKERHED

Gem denne vejledning til senere brug.
Følg alle anvisninger og advarsler på apparatet.
Apparatet skal altid tilsluttes den korrekte spænding. Der henvises til

brugsanvisningen, der indeholder specifikationer for strømforsyning. Der gøres
opmærksom på, at ved varierende driftsspændinger kan det blive nødvendigt at
bruge andre lednings- og/eller stiktyper.

Apparatet må ikke monteres i et kabinet uden ventilation eller lige over andet
udstyr, der udvikler varme, f.eks. forstærkere. Den maksimale
omgivelsestemperatur ved drift, der står opført i specifikationerne, skal
overholdes.

Der er ventilationsåbninger i kabinettet. For at sikre apparatets drift og hindre
overophedning må disse åbninger ikke blokeres eller tildækkes. Stik aldrig noget
ind igennem ventilationsåbningerne, og pas på aldrig at spilde nogen form for
væske på apparatet.

Dette apparat er forsynet med et stik med jordforbindelse. Denne
sikkerhedsforanstaltning må aldrig omgås.

Udgangsstik fra audioforstærkere må aldrig sættes direkte i apparatet.
Apparatet må ikke udsættes for regn eller fugt og må ikke bruges i nærheden af

vand for at undgå risiko for elektrisk stød og brand.
Apparatet må aldrig bruges, hvis det er blevet stødt, beskadiget eller vådt, eller

hvis ændringer i ydelsen tyder på, at det trænger til eftersyn.
Dette apparat må kun åbnes af fagfolk. Hvis dækslet tages af, udsættes man for

livsfarlig højspænding.

Denne mærkat på komponenten advarer om uisoleret, farlig spænding
i apparatet ... høj nok til at give elektrisk stød.

Denne mærkat på komponenten advarer om vigtig drifts- og
vedligeholdsinformation i den tilhørende litteratur.

SUOMI

TÄRKEITÄ TURVALLISUUSOHJEITA

Säilytä nämä ohjeet tulevaa käyttöä varten.
Seuraa kaikkia yksikköön merkittyjä ohjeita ja varoituksia.
Käytä aina oikeaa verkkojännitettä. Tehovaatimukset selviävät valmistajan

käyttöohjeista. Huomaa, että eri käyttöjännitteet saattavat vaatia toisenlaisen
verkkojohdon ja/tai -pistokkeen käytön.

Älä asenna yksikköä telineeseen jossa ei ole tuuletusta, tai välittömästi lämpöä
tuottavien laitteiden, esim. tehovahvistimien, yläpuolelle. Ympäristön lämpötila
käytössä ei saa ylittää tuotespesifikaation maksimilämpötilaa.

Kotelo on varustettu tuuletusreiillä ja -aukoilla. Luotettavan toiminnan
varmistamiseksi ja ylilämpenemisen välttämiseksi näitä aukkoja ei saa sulkea tai
peittää. Mitään esineitä ei saa työntää tuuletusaukkoihin. Mitään nesteitä ei saa
kaataa yksikköön.

Tuote on varustettu 3-johtimisella maadoitetulla verkkopistokkeella. Tämä on
turvallisuustoiminne eikä sitä saa poistaa.

Älä kytke audiotehovahvistimen lähtöjä suoraan mihinkään yksikön
liittimeen.

Sähköiskun ja palovaaran välttämiseksi yksikkö ei saa olla sateessa tai kosteassa,
eikä sitä saa käyttää märässä ympäristössä.

Älä käytä yksikköä jos se on pudonnut, vaurioitunut, kostunut, tai jos sen
suorituskyky on huomattavasti muuttunut, mikä vaatii huoltoa.

Yksikön saa avata vain laitteeseen perehtynyt huoltohenkilö. Kansien poisto
altistaa sinut vaarallisille jännitteille.

Tämä kolmio, joka esiintyy komponentissasi, varoittaa sinua
eristämättömän vaarallisen jännitteen esiintymisestä yksikön sisällä.
Tämä jännite saattaa olla riittävän korkea aiheuttamaan
sähköiskuvaaran.

Tämä kolmio, joka esiintyy komponentissasi, kertoo sinulle, että tässä
tuotedokumentoinnissa esiintyy tärkeitä käyttö- ja ylläpito-ohjeita.

iv

PCM 81

NONOSE

SE

Introduction

NORSK

VIKTIG INFORMASJON OM SIKKERHET

Ta vare på denne veiledningen for senere bruk.
Følg alle anvisningene og advarslene som er angitt på apparatet.
Apparatet skal alltid anvendes med korrekt spenning. Produktbeskrivelsen

inneholder spesifikasjoner for strømkrav. Vær oppmerksom på at det ved ulike
driftsspenninger kan være nødvendig å bruke en annen ledning- og/eller
støpseltype.

Apparatet skal ikke monteres i skap uten ventilasjon, eller direkte over
varmeproduserende utstyr, som for eksempel kraftforsterkere. Den maksimale
romtemperaturen som står oppgitt i produktbeskrivelsen, skal overholdes.

Apparatet er utstyrt med ventilasjonsåpninger. For at apparatet skal være pålitelig
i bruk og ikke overopphetes, må disse åpningene ikke blokkeres eller tildekkes.
Stikk aldri noe inn i ventilasjonsåpningene, og pass på at det aldri søles noen form
for væske på apparatet.

Dette apparatet er utstyrt med et jordet støpsel. Dette er en
sikkerhetsforanstaltning som ikke må forandres.

Utgangsplugger fra audioforsterkere skal aldri koples direkte til apparatet.
Unngå brannfare og elektrisk støt ved å sørge for at apparatet ikke utsettes for

regn eller fuktighet og ikke anvendes i nærheten av vann.
Apparatet skal ikke brukes hvis det har blitt utsatt for støt, er skadet eller blitt vått,

eller hvis endringer i ytelsen tyder på at det trenger service.
Dette apparatet skal kun åpnes av fagfolk. Hvis dekselet fjernes, utsettes man for

livsfarlig høyspenning.

SVENSKA

VIKTIGA SÄKERHETSFÖRESKRIFTER

Spara dessa föreskrifter för framtida bruk.
Följ alla anvisningar och varningar som anges på enheten.
Använd alltid rätt nätspänning. Se tillverkarens bruksanvisningar för information

om effektkrav. Märkväl, att andra matningsspänningar eventuellt kräver att en
annan typs nätsladd och/eller kontakt används.

Installera inte enheten i ett oventilerat stativ, eller direkt ovanför utrustningar som
avger värme, t ex effektförstärkare. Se till att omgivningens temperatur vid drift
inte överskrider det angivna värdet i produktspecifikationen.

Behållaren är försedd med hål och öppningar för ventilering. För att garantera
tillförlitlig funktion och förhindra överhettning får dessa öppningar inte blockeras
eller täckas. Inga föremål får skuffas in genom ventilationshålen. Inga vätskor får
spillas på enheten.

Produkten är försedd med en jordad 3-trådskontakt. Detta är en
säkerhetsfunktion som inte får tas ur bruk.

Anslut aldrig audioeffektförstärkarutgångar direkt till någon av enhetens
kontakter.

För att undvika elstöt eller brandfara får enheten inte utsättas för regn eller fukt,
eller användas på ställen där den blir våt.

Använd inte enheten om den har fallit i golvet, skadats, blivit våt, eller om dess
prestanda förändrats märkbart, vilket kräver service.

Enheten får öppnas endast av behörig servicepersonal. Farliga spänningar blir
tillgängliga när locken tas bort.

Komponenten er merket med denne trekanten, som er en advarsel om
at det finnes uisolert, farlig spenning inne i kabinettet ... høy nok til å
utgjøre en fare for elektrisk støt.

Komponenten er merket med denne trekanten, som betyr at den
tilhørende litteraturen inneholder viktige opplysninger om drift og
vedlikehold.

Denna triangel, som visas på din komponent, varnar dig om en
oisolerad farlig spänning inne i enheten. Denna spänning är eventuellt
så hög att fara för elstöt föreligger.

Denna triangel, som visas på din komponent, anger att viktiga
bruksanvisningar och serviceanvisningar ingår i dokumentationen i
fråga.

v

Introduction

DEDEES

ES

Lexicon

DEUTSCH

WICHTIGE SICHERHEITSANWEISUNGEN

Heben Sie sich diese Sicherheitsanweisungen auch für später auf.
Befolgen Sie alle auf der Vorrichtung stehenden Anweisungen und Warnungen.
Immer nur mit der richtigen Spannung verwenden! Die ebrauchsanweisungen

des Herstellers informieren Sie über die elektrischen Anforderungen. Vergessen
Sie nicht daß bei verschiedenen Betriebsspannungen ggf. auch verschiedene
Leitungskabel und/oder Verbindungsstecker zu verwenden sind.

Stellen Sie die Vorrichtung nicht in ein unbelüftetes Gestell oder
unmittelbar über wärmeerzeugende Geräte wie z.B. Tonverstärker. Halten Sie die
in den Produktspezifikationen angegebene maximale Umgebungstemperatur bei
Betrieb ein.

Schlitze und Öffnungen im Gehäuse dienen der Belüfung; um verläßlichen
Betrieb sicherzustellen und Überheizen zu vermeiden dürfen diese Öffnungen
nich verstopft oder abgedeckt werden. Stecken Sie nie irgend einen Gegenstand
durch die Belüftungsschlitze. Vergießen Sie keine Flüssigkeiten auf den Apparat.

Dieses Produkt is mit einem 3-drahtigen Erdungsstecker ausgerüstet. Diese
Sicherheitsmaßnahme darf nicht unwirksam gemacht werden.

Schließen Sie nie Tonverstärker unmittelbar an einen Anschluß des Apparates an.
Um elektrischen Schlag oder Feuer zu vermeiden, setzen Sie den Apparat weder

Regen noch Feuchtigkeit aus und betreiben Sie ihn nicht dort wo Wasser
eindringen könnte.

Versuchen Sie nicht den Apparat zu betreiben falls er fallen gelassen, beschädigt,
oder Flüssigkeiten ausgesetzt wurde, oder falls sich seine Arbeitsweise derart
ändert daß daraus ein Bedarf nach Raparatur zu schließen ist.

Dieser Apparat sollte nur von qualifizierten Fachleuten geöffnet werden. Das
Abnehmen von Abdeckungen setzt Sie gefährlichen Spannungen aus.

ESPAÑOL

INSTRUCCIONES IMPORTANTES

DE SEGURIDAD

Guarde esta instrucciones para uso posterior.
Utilice siempre el voltaje correcto. Diríjase a las instrucciones de operación del

fabricante para obtener las especificaciones de potencia. Esté al tanto de que
voltajes de operación distintos requieren el uso de cables y/o enchufes distintos.

No instale esta unidad en un estante sin ventilación, ni tampoco directamente
encima de equipos que generen calor tales como amplificadores de potencia.
Fíjese en las temperaturas ambientales máximas de operación que se mencionan
en las especificaciones del producto.

Las aperturas y ranuras del chasis sirven para proveer la ventilación necesaria para
operar la unidad con seguridad y para prevenir sobrecalentamiento, y por lo tanto
no pueden ser obstruidas o cubiertas. No introduzca objetos de ningún tipo a través
de las ranuras de ventilación, y nunca deje caer ningún líquido sobre la unidad.

Este producto está equipado con un enchufe de 3 clavijas con conexión a tierra.
Éste es un elemento de seguridad que no debe ser eliminado.

Nunca conecte ningún tipo de salida de amplificadores de sonido directamente
a los conectores de la unidad.

Para prevenir descargas eléctricas o incendios, mantenga la unidad alejada de la
lluvia, humedad o cualquier lugar en el que pueda entrar en contacto con agua.

No trate de hacer funcionar la unidad si se ha caído, está dañada, ha entrado en
contacto con líquidos, o si nota cualquier cambio brusco en su funcionamiento
que indique la necesidad de hacerle un servicio de mantenimiento.

Esta unidad deberá ser abierta únicamente por personal calificado. Si usted quita
las coberturas se expondrá a voltajes peligrosos.

Dieses Dreieck auf Ihrem Apparat warnt Sie vor nicht-isolierter,
gefährlicher Spannung im Gehäuse ... stark genug um eine
Berührungsgefahr darzustellen.

Dieses Dreieck auf Ihrem Apparat bedeutet daß wichtige Betriebs- und
Wartungsanweisungen in der mitgelieferten Dokumentation zu finden
sind.

Este triángulo que aparece en su componente le advierte sobre la
existencia dentro del chasis de voltajes peligrosos sin aislantes ...
voltajes que son lo suficientemente grandes como para causar
electrocución.

Este triángulo que aparece en su componente lo alerta sobre las
instrucciones de operación y mantenimiento importantes que están en
los materiales de lectura que se incluyen.

vi

PCM 81

FR

FR

IT

IT

Introduction

FRANÇAIS

INSTRUCTIONS DE SÛRETÉ IMPORTANTES

Gardez ces instructions pour réference future.
Observez toutes les instructions et tous les avertissements marqués sur l’appareil.
Branchez uniquements sur un réseau de tension indiquée. Consultez le manuel

d’instruction du fabriquant pour les spécifications de courant. N’oubliez pas que
différentes tensions peuvent nécessiter l’utilisation de cables et/ou de fiches de
connexion différents.

N’installez pas l’appareil en un compartiment non-aéré ou directement au-dessus
d’équipements générateurs de chaleur, tels qu’amplificateurs de courants, etc.
Ne dépassez pas la température ambiante maximale de fonctionnement indiquée
dans les spécifications du produit.

Des fentes et ouvertures sont prévues dans le boîtier pour l’aération; Pour
assurer le bon fonctionnement et pour prévenir l’échauffement, ces ouvertures ne
doivent pas être couvertes ou bloquées. N’insérez pas d’objets dans les fentes
d’aération. Empêchez tout liquide de se répandre sur l’appareil.

Ce produit est muni d’une fiche à trois fils pour la mise à terre. Ceci est une
mesure de sécurité et ne doit pas être contrariée.

Ne connectez jamais d’amplificateurs audio directement aux connecteurs de
l’appareil.

Pour empêcher les chocs électriques et le danger d’incendie, évitez d’exposer
l’appareil à la pluie ou à l’humidité, et ne le mettez pas en marche en un endroit
où il serait exposé aux éclaboussures d’eau.

N’essayez pas de faire fonctionner l’appareil s’il est tombé à terre, a été
endommangé, exposé à un liquide, ou si vous observez des différences nettes
dans son fonctionnement, indiquant la nécessité de réparations.

Cet appareil ne doit être ouvert que par un personnel de service qualifié. En
enlevant les couvercles vous vous exposez à des tensions électriques dangereuses.

ITALIANO

IMPORTANTI NORME DI SICUREZZA

Conservare le presenti norme per l’utilizzo futuro.
Osservare tutte le istruzioni e le avvertenze apposte sull’unità.
Utilizzare esclusivamente con la tensione di rete corretta. Consultare le istruzioni

operative fornite dal fabbricante per i dati riguardanti la tensione e
l’assorbimento di corrente. Potrebbe essere necessario l’uso di cavi di rete e/o di
spine diverse a seconda della tensione utilizzata.

Non installare l’unità in uno scaffale privo di ventilazione oppure direttamente
sopra una fonte di calore, come, ad esempio, un amplificatore. Non superare la
temperatura ambientale massima di funzionamento riportata nei dati tecnici del
prodotto.

Le fessure e le altre aperture nella scatola servono alla ventilazione. Per un
funzionamento affidabile, e per evitare un eventuale surriscaldamento, queste
aperture non vanno ostruite o coperte in nessun modo. Evitare in tutti i casi di
inserire oggetti di qualsiasi genere attraverso le fessure di ventilazione. Non
versare mai del liquido di nessun tipo sull’unità.

Questo prodotto viene fornito con una spina a 3 fili con massa. Tale dispositivo di
sicurezza non va eliminato.

Evitare sempre di collegare le uscite dell’amplificatore audio direttamente ai
connettori dell’unità.

Per prevenire il pericolo di folgorazione e di incendio non esporre l’unità alla
pioggia o ad un’umidità eccessiva; evitare di adoperare l’unità dove potrebbe
entrare in contatto con acqua.

Evitare di adoperare l’unità se la stessa è stata urtata violentemente, se ha subito
un danno, se è stata esposta ad un liquido o in caso di un evidente cambiamento
delle prestazioni che indichi la necessità di un intervento di assistenza tecnica.

Ogni intervento sull’unità va eseguito esclusivamente da personale qualificato. La
rimozione della copertura comporta l’esposizione al pericolo di folgorazione.

Ce triangle, sur votre appareil vous avertit de la présence de tension
dangereuse, non-isolée à l’intérieur du boîtier...une tension suffisante
pour représenter un danger d’électrocution.

Ce triangle sur sur votre appareil vous invite de suivre d’importantes
instructions d’utilisation et d’entretien dans la documentation livrée
avec le produit.

Il presente triangolo impresso sul componente avverte della presenza
di tensioni pericolose non isolate all’interno della copertura... tali
tensioni rappresentano un pericolo di folgorazione

Il presente triangolo impresso sul componente avverte l’utente della
presenza nella documentazione allegata di importanti istruzioni relative
al funzionamento ed alla manutenzione.

vii

1

Getting Started

About the PCM 81........................................................................1-2

The Presets • The Algorithms • Tempo Control • Editing • Memory Cards • User
Interface

Front Panel Overview....................................................................1-4

Rear Panel Overview .....................................................................1-6

Block Diagram ..............................................................................1-8

Installation Notes ..........................................................................1-9

Mounting • Power Requirements • Audio Connections • Control Connections •
Connectors • Setting Audio Levels • Configurations • Memory Cards

Getting Started

Lexicon

ABOUT THE PCM 81

Thank you for your purchase of the PCM 81, one of Lexicon’s most
powerful and versatile digital effects processors. The PCM 81 brings
you exciting new effects with extensive processing and control
capabilities, and uncompromising sonic clarity.

THE PRESETS

The PCM 81 contains a built-in library of 300 preset programs that
provide a comprehensive array of effects ranging from beautiful
and lush to completely wild. The presets are organized into 6 Banks
of 50, and functionally grouped for a wide range of applications.
Be sure to experiment with all 300 presets to get a feel for the full
range of PCM 81 capabilities.

Bank P0

• Multi Effects

• Modulation Effects

• Special Effects

Bank P3

• Reverb Effects

• Processed Reverb
Effects

• Remix Effects

Every preset has one or more of its parameters patched to the front
panel ADJUST knob, giving you instant control over the primary
aspect of the effect — without going into Edit mode. In the preset,
Concert Hall, for example, Mid Reverb Time is patched to ADJUST.

Bank P1

• Rhythmic Echo &
Delay Effects

• Ambience Effects

Bank P4

• Vocal Shift

• Vocal Harmony

• Guitar Magic

• Instrument Shift &
Harmony

• Percussion & Tempo

Bank P2

• EQ Effects

• Spatial Effects

• Gain Effects

• Resonant Chord
Effects

Bank P5

• Sci-Fi FX

• Pitch & Delay

• Pitch Sequences

• Pads & Drones

• Utility Programs

• Pitch Correct

When you turn the knob, you will adjust the reverb decay. In Prime
Blue, ADJUST is patched to several parameters, so that turning the
knob changes the effect from a tight chorus, to a chorus with
recirculating echoes and, finally, into a reverb.

THE ALGORITHMS

The PCM 81 uses 17 stereo algorithms to create different types of
effects. Each algorithm includes an uncompromised stereo reverb
effect, as well as several voices of additional stereo effects. There
are three general classes of algorithm: 4-Voice, 6-Voice and Pitch.
The 4-Voice algorithms: Concert Hall, Plate, Chamber, Inverse and
Infinite each combine a specific type of reverberation with a
4-voice, general purpose, stereo effect “toolbox”, as well as
additional post-processing for the reverb. The 6-Voice algorithms:
Glide>Hall, Chorus+Rvb, M-Band+Rvb, Res1>Plate and Res2>Plate
each combine a specific type of reverberation with a specialized
6-voice stereo effect. The Pitch algorithms: Quad>Hall, Dual­Chmb, Dual Plt, Dual Inv, Stereo-Chmb, VSO-Chmb and Pitch
Correct each offer a unique type of pitch shifting, combined with
an uncompromised Lexicon reverb.

Many of the PCM 81 algorithms include parameters that make it
possible to create dynamic spatialization effects for 2-channel or
surround applications. Check out the Ambience Effects in Bank P1
and the Spatial Effects in Bank P2 for examples. The Dual FX Pitch
algorithms have dedicated Submixer controls that allow instant
reconfiguration of the reverb and effects blocks.

TEMPO CONTROL

The PCM 81 gives you a unique set of tempo controls. Tempos can
be tapped in with the front panel Tap button (or an assigned
controller) or “dialed-in”, in BPM (beats per minute) on the display.
The PCM 81 also lets you generate MIDI clock from your tempo, as

1-2

PCM 81

Getting Started

well as receive MIDI tempo from an external sequencer or drum
machine. In the PCM 81, tempo can control LFO speeds and Time
Switch controls, as well as all delay parameters, ensuring that all of
your modulations are in tempo with your music. You can even set
independent rhythmic values for different parameters within a
single program.

Tempo can be set and displayed in either rhythmic value or time
values. Many presets, particularly the Rhythmic Echo & Delay
Effects in Program Bank P1, have delay times assigned to Tap
tempo. Try loading some of these and pressing Tap twice in rhythm
to change tempo.

EDITING

An enormous range of editing control is provided for each
algorithm, with parameters organized in an edit matrix of as many
as 100 main controls. In addition to providing this powerful sound
design capability, the PCM 81 also allows you to customize these
controls for your day-to-day editing needs, or to use a subset of
controls specially designed for each preset.

The PCM 81 has two levels of Edit Mode control called Go mode
and Pro mode. In Go mode, the most useful parameters within an
effect are grouped for instant access via the front panel Edit button.
Each preset has a specially selected set of Go mode parameters
which let you make value changes to the effect without losing the
character of the sound. Pro mode gives you access to the full
parameter editing matrix for the algorithm of any loaded effect
when you press Edit. In this mode, you can access a complete set
of Modulation and Patching parameters, create your own ADJUST
knob patch and assign your own Go mode parameters.

A unique Patching and Modulation system provides
unprecedented control over your effects, with a versatile set of
internal modulators: LFO, AR Envelope, Envelope Follower, Latch
and Time Switches. These allow you to create modulation sweeps
which move in time with music, or wildly animated effects. You can
create as many as 10 patches per effect, each with as many as 8
pivot points. You can patch multiple parameters to a single
controller, or patch multiple sources to a single destination.

MEMORY CARDS

The front panel memory slot will accept industry standard PCMCIA
SRAM cards (up to 1Meg). Use these cards to store effects (as many
as 2350 on a 1 Meg card), system setups, MIDI program maps, and
more.

PCM 81 and PCM 80 SRAM cards are readable by either system.

USER INTERFACE

For all of its programming power and flexibility, you’ll find the PCM
81 simple to use. The large, 2-line fluorescent display is easy to see
from any angle whether the surroundings are bright or dark.
Separate SELECT and ADJUST knobs make program loading and
editing quick and easy. We’ve even designed in a special Info mode
— press and hold any button to find out what its function is, or to
get status information such as the name of the running effect,
current tempo rate, etc.

To get the most out of the PCM 81, we suggest that you invest the
time to explore this manual. We think you’ll agree that the time
spent investigating will reward you with enjoyment of its full
capabilities.

1-3

Getting Started

FRONT PANEL OVERVIEW

Lexicon

1 2

HEADROOM

0dB

6
12
18
24

INPUT SELECT POWER

PCM 81

DIGITAL EFFECTS PROCESSOR

Chorus+Rvb

010

P0 0.0

Prime Blue

3

ADJUST

1. Headroom

Five-position indicator for analog and digital signal levels and
overload conditions.

2. INPUT

Adjusts analog input level.

3. Display

Two rows of 20 alphanumeric characters display effect names
and ID numbers, and parameter names and values.

4. ADJUST

In Edit mode, changes values of parameters chosen with
SELECT. With Program Banks or Register Banks selected,
behaves as a soft knob for patched parameters.

4 5 6

Down

5. SELECT

6. Up/Down

7. Program Banks

8. Load/✱

7 9 11 13 15 18

Program

Up

6 8 10 12 14 16

Register

Banks

Banks Edit Control Tempo

Load

❊

Compare Bypass Tap

Store

Memory Card

Eject

17

Scrolls through presets, registers or parameters. With Program
Bank or Register Bank selected, scrolls through the 50
programs in the selected bank. With Edit selected, scrolls only
through the parameters of the active row.

Press to move up and down through a program, register, or
parameter matrix.

Enables selection of factory presets. Press repeatedly to cycle
selection of 4 internal preset banks. Press and hold to display
the name of the current bank.

In Program or Register mode, loads the selected program. In
Edit mode, scrolls through any multi-field parameter.

1-4

PCM 81

Getting Started

9. Register Banks

Enables selection of user memory. If a RAM card is loaded into
the Memory Card slot, each press of this button selects a new
register bank. Press and hold to display the name of the current
bank.

10. Store

Initiates register store function.

11. Edit

Enables parameter selection for editing of values.

12. Compare

Active in Program, Register, and Edit modes. Press to compare
the active version of the current effect with the most recently
stored version.

13. Control

Enables selection of system and global parameters.

16. Tap

Sets tempo. Press twice in rhythm to establish tempo rate.
Press once to reset LFO.

17. Memory Card

Slot for optional preset ROM or register RAM cards. Press Eject
button to remove card.

18. POWER

On/Off.

14. Bypass

Bypasses or mutes audio, depending on the setting of each
program's bypass parameter.

15. Tempo

Press to display tempo rate and to initiate tempo functions.
LED flashes in time with current tempo rate.

1-5

Getting Started

MIDI

FOOT

SWITCH

L

R

IN

MIDI

AES/EBU

THRU OUT

OUT IN

FOOT

CONTROLLER

BALANCED OUTPUTS

INPUTSBALANCED

INPUT
LEVEL

L

R

S/PDIF

IN

OUT

UNBAL

-20dB

0dB

PUSH

PUSH

PUSH

PUSH

PUSH

PUSH

REAR PANEL OVERVIEW

Lexicon

1 5

2

1. AC Power

Standard 3-pin IEC power connector. 100-240V, 50-60Hz
automatic switching to correct voltage range.

2. MIDI IN

Receives MIDI information from other MIDI equipment such as
master keyboard controllers, MIDI foot controllers, sequencers
and synthesizers.

MIDI THRU

Passes any MIDI data received without change.

3

4 8

6

7

3. AES/EBU and S/PDIF Inputs

AES/EBU format digital connectors conform to AES
professional standards. S/PDIF format digital connectors
conform to CP-340 Type II and IEC-958 consumer standards.
Only one of these options (AES or S/PDIF) may be selected for
input.

4. FOOTSWITCH

A 1/4” Tip/Ring/Sleeve phone jack for two independent
momentary footswitches.

MIDI OUT

Transmits MIDI data to other equipment.

1-6

5. FOOT CONTROLLER

A 1/4" Tip/Ring/Sleeve phone jack provided for footpedal with
10kΩ to 100Ω impedance.

PCM 81

TIP
RING
SLEEVE

Tip Sleeve

Ring

PEDAL

10-100K

Typical Pot(entiometer)

TipSleeve Ring

TIP

RING
SLEEVE

Tip Sleeve

Ring

Footswitch 2

Footswitch 1

TIP
RING
SLEEVE

Tip Sleeve

Ring

+

–

Ground
(Shield)

Balanced I/O

6. BALANCED OUTPUTS

Output impedance is 125Ω, each side, balanced, and levels up
to +18dBu maximum full scale. 1/4" phone connectors and
XLRs provided. Both S/PDIF and AES outputs are active at all
times.

7. BALANCED INPUTS

Combined 3 pole XLR and 1/4" jacks, electronically balanced.
Input impedance is 50kΩ unbalanced, and 100kΩ balanced.
Inputs accept input levels from -22dBu to +20dBu.

8. INPUT LEVEL

Two-position (In/Out) switch for matching input gain to the
source being used. In position adds 20dB of input gain
(unbalanced) to the input stages. Out position provides 0dB of
gain (balanced).

Getting Started

1-7

Getting Started

BLOCK DIAGRAM

Left Input

Headroom

Overload

Digital Audio

Transmitter

Digital Audio

Transmitter

Lexicon

S/PDIF Out

AES Out

BAL/UNBAL
0dB +20dB

Right Input

S/PDIF In

AES/EBU In

100-240V

50-60 Hz

Input
Level

Digital Audio

Receiver

Foot Controller

Power

Supply

A/D

L/R

L/R

Footswitch

+ 5V

+ 15

- 15

Analog

In Lvl

Digital

In Lvl

L/R

Control

Soft

Knob

EFFECTS

Data

CPU

Keys

LEDs

Display

Mix

PCMCIA
Memory

Card

L/R

D/A

L/R

-10dBu/+4dBu

MIDI IN

MIDI OUT

MIDI THRU

Mute

Mute

1-8

PCM 81

Getting Started

INSTALLATION NOTES

MOUNTING

The PCM 81 uses one EIA-standard rack space, and can be
mounted on any level surface or in a standard 19 inch (483 mm)
rack. If the PCM 81 is mounted in a rack or road case, support the
rear of the chassis to prevent possible damage from mechanical
shock and vibration.

The maximum ambient operating temperature is 104°F (40°C).
Provide adequate ventilation if the PCM 81 is mounted in a closed
rack with heat-producing equipment such as power amplifiers.

POWER REQUIREMENTS

The PCM 81 is equipped with a 3-pin IEC power connector and
detachable cord.

The PCM 81 will operate with power sources from 100 to 240 volts
AC, 50-60Hz. Power switching to actual line voltage is automatic.

AUDIO CONNECTIONS

Mono Applications

Use a Y-connector inserted at the analog inputs and outputs to
have the signal summed to mono.

Note:

Be careful to keep input and output to all channels
wired consistently. Out-of-phase wiring can produce
audible effects.

Digital Audio

S/PDIF (CP-340 Type II) Consumer Digital Audio connections
require 75Ω coaxial cable suited for digital audio or video signals.
Audio grade cable is not suitable.

AES/EBU connections require balanced connections using
high-quality, low-capacitance, controlled-impedance, data
communication, twisted-shielded pair cable. Microphone cable
may introduce a significant amount of jitter into the signal, causing
distortion.

CONTROL CONNECTIONS

Analog Audio

For best performance, maintain balanced connections, and use
high-quality, low-capacitance, twisted-shielded pair cable.

When connecting to single-ended, unbalanced devices, connect
the low side to signal ground at the unbalanced piece of
equipment. Output level does not change when connected to an
unbalanced input.

Footswitch/Foot Controller

One 1/4 inch T/R/S phone jack is provided for 2 momentary
footswitches. Another 1/4 inch T/R/S phone jack is provided for a
footpedal (minimum 100Ω to maximum 10k impedance).
Normally open or normally closed momentary switches are
suitable. At power on, the PCM 81 assumes the switch is off. Use
shielded, twisted-pair cable with shield connected to sleeve. See
diagram on page 1-9.

1-9

Getting Started

2 = high

3 = low

1 = ground

1 = ground

3 = low

2 = high

Female

Male

Lexicon

MIDI

Five-pin DIN connectors are provided for MIDI IN, THRU and OUT.
Use standard 5-pin DIN MIDI cable assemblies, available from your
local dealer.

CONNECTORS

Mating

Signal Connector Description

L and R Analog XLR A3M Active balanced, pin 2 high
Audio Input +2dBu min; +20dBu max

at 0dB setting

L and R Analog XLR A3F Active balanced, pin 2 high
Audio Output -2dBu to +18dBu

at full scale output

AES/EBU XLR A3M Balanced RS-422
Digital Input pin 2 high

AES/EBU XLR A3F Balanced RS-422
Digital Output pin 2 high

S/PDIF 1/4" EIAJ Consumer Digital
CP-340 Type II Audio Format
Consumer Digital tip high
Audio Input and
Output

MIDI In 5-pin DIN Standard MIDI Interface
MIDI Out
MIDI Thru

Pin 2 high by convention

SETTING AUDIO LEVELS

The PCM 81, with both analog and digital input and output
connections, requires some attention to proper setting of signal
level.

Analog inputs are first gain-conditioned by the rear panel input
gain switch, and then by the front panel INPUT knob. Proper
setting of both the switch and knob are important for best
performance of the A/D converter. Audio data from the A/D
converter is level adjusted by the Analog Lvl parameter before
reaching the effects processors. Digital inputs are also level
adjusted before reaching the effects processors via the Digital Lvl
parameter.

Analog and the selected digital source are mixed at the input to the
effects processors. For example, setting both Analog Lvl and Digital
Lvl to 50% will mix the analog and the selected digital input
signals equally and send them to the effects. Creating a mix which
exceeds 100% can cause overload.

1-10

PCM 81

Getting Started

Proper setting of Input level on the PCM 81 is dependent on:

• Proper signal level into the analog front end to avoid signals
causing overload at the DSP input

• Proper adjustment of the signal level into the analog-to-digital
converter to optimize noise and avoid overload

• Proper setting of signal level into the digital signal processor to
optimize noise.

Headroom Display

HEADROOM

0dB

6
12
18
24

INPUT

0 10

the Level parameter of the subject data stream be set to 100%,
while the Level parameter of the other is set to 0%.

The chart below illustrates the adjustment range that will set input
levels for both balanced and unbalanced operation.When a choice
can be made, it is best to operate at the higher amplitude end of
the recommended range to optimize noise performance.

overload: >0dBu >+20dBu

acceptable: 0dBu to -22dBu +20dBu to -2dBu

too low (noisy): <-22dBu <-2dBu

The headroom display provides both
headroom and overload information from a
variety of measurement points. The meters
display the sum of both the analog and the
digital input data. Examining either the
analog or the digital level alone requires that

Unbalanced Balanced

Overload

The 0db (overload) indicators will light under the following
conditions:

• A/D overload

• Overload at any point in effects processing

For example, internal peaking of high Q filters, or level buildup
from certain reverberation modes can result in overload, even
when the input A/D or digital receiver data stream is not at full
scale. Such conditions are most often caused by a combination of
extreme parameter settings. Adjusting parameter/level settings can
eliminate these overload conditions.

Selecting a Digital Input Source

1. Press Control.

2. Press Up or Down until the leftmost digit in the lower lefthand
corner of the display is 0.

3. Turn SELECT to 0.0 Word Clock, and turn ADJUST to display
Ext: XLR or Ext: Coax, depending on the input you are using.

Selecting Word Size

1. Press Control.

2. Press Up or Down until the leftmost digit in the lower lefthand
corner of the display is 0.

3. Turn SELECT to 0.3 Word Size, and turn ADJUST to display
desired Word Size.

• When using analog outputs as primary outputs, set Word Size
to 20 bits.

1-11

Getting Started

Lexicon

Setting Analog and Digital Input Level

1. Press Control.

2. Press Up or Down until the leftmost digit in the lower lefthand
corner of the display is 0.

3. Turn SELECT to 0.2 Dig In Lvl, and turn ADJUST to display 0%.

Note:

If you are not running digital audio, controlled by
External Clock, into the PCM 81, the digital audio
input will be disabled or muted. Until there is valid
digital audio input, select 0.0 External to enable the
digital input level control. Until valid digital audio is
connected, the Dig In Lvl control will remain muted.

4. Turn SELECT to 0.1 Analog In Lvl, and turn ADJUST to display
100%.

5. Adjust the front panel INPUT knob so that program material
level peaks cause the headroom display to reach the top of the
column without lighting the overload indicators. An
occasional large signal peak causing momentary flashing of the
overload indicator is acceptable in most instances, but should
be validated by listening to the actual result.

6. If you are running digital audio, turn SELECT back to 0.2 Dig In
Lvl, and turn ADJUST to the desired level. You may want to
back off the Analog In Lvl setting to prevent the analog/digital
mix from overloading the effects processor.

Setting Output Level

While still in Control mode, turn SELECT to 0.6 Output Level. The
Output Level parameter has two range positions. The appropriate
position depends on the level handling capability of the device
connected to the analog outputs. Devices capable of handling
outputs with peak levels of 18dBu require setting Output Level to
the +4dBu setting. Devices which cannot handle peak levels
greater than +4dBu require the -10dBu setting.

CONFIGURATIONS

If you will be using a PCM 81 as your primary effects unit, and your
system includes a console with one or more auxiliary (effects)
sends, connect the PCM 81 as shown on the next page. In most
applications, it is preferable to connect the PCM 81 outputs to two
of the console's input channel strips, panned full left and right,
rather than to the effects returns. This allows the greatest
flexibility in routing and equalization.

In this configuration the console controls are used to set the
amount of effect heard—the PCM 81's MIX control should be set
for 100% wet. To assign a global MIX setting:

1. Press Control.

2. Press Up or Down until 1.x is displayed in the lower left of the
display and System is displayed on the upper line.

3. Turn SELECT until System Mix Mode is displayed on the upper
line. 1.1 will be displayed in the lower left.

4. Turn ADJUST until the lower line reads:

1.1 ✱Global

5. Press Load /✱ to show the current global setting of MIX; use
ADJUST to set it to 100% wet.

1-12

PCM 81

MIDI

Effects Send (R)

Effects Send (L)

Channel Input or
Effects Return (R)

Channel Input or
Effects Return (L)

FOOT

SWITCH

L

R

IN

MIDI

AES/EBU

THRU OUT

OUT IN

FOOT

CONTROLLER

BALANCED OUTPUTS

INPUTSBALANCED

INPUT
LEVEL

L R

S/PDIF

IN

OUT

UNBAL

-20dB

0dB

PUSH

PUSH

PUSH

PUSH

PUSH

PUSH

Connecting to a Mixing Console’s
Effects Sends

Getting Started

MEMORY CARDS

You can use Memory cards to store as
many as 2350 PCM 81 registers (47
banks of 50 on a 1 Meg card). Registers
stored on a properly formatted card will
be recognized whenever the card is
inserted, and can be accessed via the
front panel Register Banks button,
exactly as internal registers.

Memory cards can also be used to store
"setups" (your system configuration, as

set in Control mode). As many as 5 PCM
81 setups can be stored on a card, allowing you to transport not
only your effects, but complete PCM 81 environments to another
PCM 81. Cards also provide storage for additional program maps
and effect chains.

See Control Mode Store and Load functions for details on saving
setups on a card and reloading them.

Memory cards must be of the following type:

PCMCIA SRAM Memory Card — 68 pin, Type I

Usable densities: 64 kByte

128 kByte
256 kByte
1 MByte

Access Time: 250 nsec or faster

Conforms to PCMCIA 2.0/JEDIA 4.1. Can use either 8-bit or
8/16-bit bus configuration. Attribute memory can be present, but
is not used.

1-13

2

Basic Operation

Modes of Operation......................................................................2-2

Navigating a Matrix • Go or Pro • Info

Control Mode ...............................................................................2-5

Row 0 Audio • Row 1 System • Row 2 Card • Row 3 MIDI • Row 4 Setup •
Row 5 Mapx • Row 6 Chain

Program and Register Banks........................................................2-17

Selecting Effects

Tempo Mode ..............................................................................2-19

The Tempo Mode Matrix • Row 0 Tempo • Row 1 Tap

Editing an Effect..........................................................................2-21

The Soft Knob • The Soft Row • Compare • Bypass • Store Operations •
The Full Edit Matrix • Patching

Basic Operation

The PCM 81 always operates in one of these modes.

Here, the lit LED indicates that Control Mode is active.

Lexicon

The PCM 81 provides a wide range of control over an extraordinary
set of reverb, delay, pitch and modulation effects. All of the controls
are easily accessed from the front panel and are described in detail
in this section.

MODES OF OPERATION

The PCM 81 has five basic modes of operation, each of which is
selected by pressing a front panel button (Program Banks, Register
Banks, Edit, Control and Tempo). Each of these first four mode
buttons has an LED which lights when the mode is active. The
Tempo LED (unless you elect to have this function turned off)
flashes the current tempo. When Tempo mode is active, no other
mode LEDs will be lighted.

• Press Register Banks to access a bank of 50 memory locations,
called registers, where you can store your customized effects.
Memory cards can be used for storage of additional banks of
registers. When a formatted memory card containing stored
registers is inserted, pressing Register Banks repeatedly will
cycle through all of the available register banks.

• Press Edit to access all of the available parameters for the
currently running effect.

• Press Control to select system parameters, MIDI, card
formatting, etc.

• Press Tempo to set tempo-related values that affect the delay
time and LFO rate parameters of the currently-running effect.
This is an exciting feature which is unique to the PCM 81, and
which will be described in detail later in this chapter.

NAVIGATING A MATRIX

All of the controls available in a mode are arranged in a matrix of
up to 10 columns (numbered 0-9) and 10 rows (each numbered
.0-.9). This arrangement allows any one of as many as 100
parameters to be selected simply by using the SELECT knob and
the Up and Down buttons to select a position in the matrix.

The five mode buttons give you the first level of access to all of the
functions and parameters in the PCM 81.

• Press Program Banks repeatedly to access six banks of factory
preset programs. Each bank contains 50 programs.

2-2

GO OR PRO

The PCM 81 offers a choice between two levels of Edit mode
parameter access. We call these Go mode and Pro mode.

Go mode makes use of an extra row in the edit mode matrix called
the Soft Row, where you can assign as many as 10 effect
parameters for easy access. Selecting Go mode (Control mode 1.0)
limits the action of the Edit button to displaying only the Soft Row
parameters assigned to the current effect.

PCM 81

g

Basic Operation

Simultaneously pressing Up and Down
will always return you to 0.0.

0 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9

1 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 1.7 1.8

2 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 2.7

The Up and Down
buttons move you
vertically through
the rows of the
matrix.

3 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 3.6

Up

4 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5

Down

5 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4

6 6.0 6.1 6.2 6.3

7 7.0 7.1 7.2

8 8.0 8.1

9 9.0

ADJUST

SELECT

The Select knob moves you
horizontally across the matrix.

An asterisk in the display indicates that
Load/✱ is active and, depending on the
mode, will load effects or will display
additional parameters when pressed.

DIGITAL EFFECTS PROCESSOR

PCM 81

XXXXXXX ❋XXXXXXXXXX

3.6 XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Your current location in the matrix is shown
in the lower lefthand corner of the display.

In the Program and Register Banks, the Adjust knob acts as a
soft knob for adjustment of one or more patched effect
parameters. In the other modes, Adjust scrolls through the

e of available settings for the control you have selected.

ran

Each preset has a set of Soft Row assignments which we've
selected for you (as well as an assignment for the ADJUST knob).
When shipped, the PCM 81 will power up in Go mode with the first
preset (P0 0.0) loaded. Press Edit to display the Soft Row of
parameters.

Pro mode gives you access to the full parameter matrix, including
the Soft Row. Use this mode when you want to do in-depth effects
editing or patching, or when you want to customize Soft Row
assignments.

Go mode and Pro mode selection is made in Control mode at
matrix location 1.0.

2-3

Basic Operation

Up

Program

Banks

Register

Banks Edit Control Tempo

Down

Load

Compare Bypass Tap

❊

Store

Displays the currently loaded effect
name, bank, and matrix location.

Displays the current tempo and the
clock source (MIDI or internal).

Displays the type of system
bypass currently selected,
and the current status
(on or off).

Inactive until an effect has been
altered, then displays "Press to
hear stored effect."

Displays action needed to
perform a store operation or
Memory Protect message when
store function is disabled.

Displays the current function
assigned to the Down button
and the Select knob.

Displays the current function
assigned to the Up button
and the Adjust knob.

Info messages are displayed when a button is pressed
and held down. Generally, info messages describe the
function of a button, or provide current status information.

INFO

Lexicon

The PCM 81 offers an extensive set of informa­tive display messages which can be activated
from the front panel.

2-4

The front panel switches perform various
functions when pressed. Most of these functions
are activated on release of the button. If you
want to know more about the function of a par­ticular button (without actually executing any
action) press and hold the button down. While
you are holding down the button, an
explanatory message will appear on the display.
The activation of an Info message overrides the
normal function of the button, so that no action
is taken on release.

PCM 81

p

CONTROL MODE

Simultaneously press Up and Down to return to 0.0.

0 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6
Audio

System

2 2.0 2.1 2.2
Card

3 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4
MIDI

4 4.0 4.1
Setup

*Word Clock

Edit Mode Mix Mode Tempo Mode Bypass Mode Pgm Bypass Mem Protect Auto Load

Bank Copy Load Format

Reset Receive Transmit *Pgm Change Automation *Send Int Clock SysEx Dump Dump Speed

Store Load

Analog In Lvl Dig In Lvl Word Size SCMS Emphasis Bit Output Level

1.5 1.61 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4

3.5 3.6 3.7 3.8 3.9

1.7 1.8
Patch Update Initialize

Basic Operation

Mapx

Chain

Map 0 Map 1

Chain
Pgm Assign

Chain 0 Chain 1 Chain 2 Chain 3 Chain 4 Chain 5 Chain 6 Chain 7 Chain 8 Chain 9

An asterisk (✱) accompanying a parameter name indicates that there are subparameters available
at that matrix location. The Load/✱ LED will light whenever an asterisk appears in the display. Press
Load/✱ to step to the next sub parameter. From any point the the matrix, press Up or Down together
with Load/k to backste

to the previous parameter.

Selections of various system states and conditions are made in
Control Mode. Press Control to enter this mode. The Control
button LED will light to indicate that the mode is active. Note that
Control Mode functions are not available when the Compare
function is active.

The Control Mode matrix is shown above. Following are
descriptions of each available selection.

2-5

Basic Operation

Lexicon

ROW 0 AUDIO

0 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4

Audio *Word Clock Analog In Lvl Dig In Lvl Word Size SCMS

0.5 0.6
Emphasis Bit Output Level

0.0 Word Clock

The PCM 81 can use its own internal clock as a timing reference,
or it can reference an external clock source from the rear panel
S/PDIF or AES jacks. Use ADJUST to select Ext XLR (AES), Ext Coax
(S/PDIF), Int: 48kHz or Int: 44.1kHz. When either Internal rate is
selected, the digital input is disabled. To process audio from the
digital input, you must select Ext.

When External clock is selected, and the PCM 81 detects valid
digital audio, the rate of the External word clock will be displayed
with a label indicating the digital audio format type: Prf
(Professional [AES]) or Cns (Consumer [S/PDIF]).

Audio ✱Word Clock

0.0 Ext:XLR Prf 48

When the PCM 81 is receiving valid digital audio, selecting Word Clock will

display the audio format and the rate of the incoming signal.

Audio ✱Word Clock

0.0 Ext:Coax Cns 44.1

The following types of errors are detected when the PCM 81 is set
to Ext:

• No Lock: The PCM 81, at some point, lost lock to the
incoming digital audio signal. Digital audio
input is muted.

• Out of Range: The sampling rate of the incoming audio
signal is outside of acceptable tolerance limits
of +4%. Digital audio input is muted.

• Non Audio: Indicates transmission of non-audio data, such
as from a CD ROM. Digital audio input is
muted.

Dig In Status

Pressing Load/✱ from Word Clock will display the current digital
input status. This status display is continuously updated, acting as
a real-time monitor of the PCM 81 digital input. This display is
active even when the PCM 81 is set to Internal clock. Note that in
the case of an AES Pro format signal, "Emp:Yes" means either CCITT
or 50/15µs emphasis.

If valid digital audio is detected, the display will show the external
clock rate and format information, along with the status of the
Emphasis bit(s) in the incoming audio signal. If the PCM 81 has lost
lock, the display message will indicate "No Lock" and
parenthetically show the internal clock rate now in use.

When External clock is selected, any loss of lock detected in the
incoming digital audio, or reception of non-audio data will cause
the PCM 81 to immediately mute the digital input, and switch to
Internal clock at the sample rate of the last valid external signal. An
error message will be displayed if this occurs. The PCM 81 will
continuously try to re-establish lock, returning automatically to
External clock if and when lock is confirmed.

2-6

Audio ✱Dig In Status

0.0 Prf 44.1 Emp:Yes

When the PCM 81 loses lock, it will mute the digital input and switch to Internal Clock.

Audio ✱Dig In Status

0.0 No Lock (Int:44.1)

PCM 81

Basic Operation

Upon loss of lock, or reception of non-audio data, the PCM 81 will
mute the digital input and display the following messages when
Word Clock or Dig In Status is selected:

Word Clock Dig In Status

Not Locked No Lock (Int 44.1)

Out of Range No Lock (Int 44.1)

Non Audio: 44.1 Non Audio: 44.1

Error Log

The following errors are continuously logged and are available for
review by pressing Load/✱ from the Dig In Status display and using
ADJUST to scroll through the error list:

• Validity: A Validity error indicates that the Validity bit
was set in a frame of incoming data and that
the data attached to it may be corrupted. This
bit may also be sent when the transmitting
device is paused.

• Confidence: The PCM 81 is detecting excessive jitter or
noise on the digital audio line. No data has
been corrupted, but corrective action should
be taken.

• SlipSample: Indicates that a single sample is misaligned
with the window defined by the Word Clock.
This may occur when an external master
changes sample rate, or when it is just
powering up, but should not occur in normal
operation.

• CRC: Indicates a Cyclic Redundancy Check error in
the incoming data.

• Parity, Indicate that at least one bit (and therefore at
Biphase: least one audio sample) was corrupted.

Parity, Biphase, and Confidence errors are most often caused by
inappropriate cabling. Be sure to use 75Ω video-grade cable, kept
as short as possible — standard audio cable will not work reliably.
Each error is reported by name, with the number of occurrences of
that particular type of error.

The display might show, for example "CRC: 4752". As many as
9999 instances of each error can be shown. If the number of actu­al errors exceeds 9999, the display will indicate ">9999". A special
symbol (n) before the error type indicates the most recently
received error.

Press Load/✱ from the Dig In Status display and use ADJUST to scroll through the Error Log.

A typical Error Log display showing that the
last error received was a CRC error (
and that there have been more than (>)
9999 instances of CRC errors since Word
Clock was last set to Ext.

■

CRC)

Audio ✱Error Log

0.0 ■ CRC >9999

To clear the Error Log, reselect Ext from the Control Mode Word
Clock display. This will cause the PCM 81 to attempt to lock to the
current external source and will reset the Error Log. The log is also
cleared on power up, and whenever it relocks (Auto Lock On).

2-7

Basic Operation

0.1 Analog In Lvl

This is a master level control for analog left and right inputs. Use
ADJUST to select values from 0-100%. If using only analog inputs,
this should be 100% for best audio performance. Values between
0% and 100% are for mixing analog and digital sources.

Note:

If the analog signal being fed into the PCM 81 is too
hot, turn it down by adjusting the front panel INPUT
level control, or by changing the rear panel Input
Gain switch. (See Setting Audio Levels in Chapter 1.)

0.2 Dig In Lvl

This is a master level control for the selected digital left and right
input connector. Use ADJUST to select values from 0-100%. If using
only digital inputs, this should be 100%, with Analog InLvl set to
0% for best audio performance. Values between 0% and 100% are
for mixing analog and digital sources.

Note:

Only one digital input connector can be active: XLR
(AES/EBU) or Coax (S/PDIF).

If digital audio is interrupted by lock or range errors, or by
transmission of non-audio data, the digital input will be muted.
Whenever this occurs, the PCM 81 remains functional, while an
error message, such as those shown at the top of the next column,
is displayed.

Lexicon

Error : Lock

(Press any button)

Error : Non Audio

(Press any button)

Any such message will remain on the display until you dismiss it by
pressing any front panel button. If the condition causing the error
is corrected, and the digital input is unmuted, the message will still
remain until you dismiss it to ensure that you are informed of a
condition that has muted digital audio, even if only for a brief
period of time. Once the message is dismissed, the display will
return to its previous state.

Some errors detected in an incoming
digital audio signal will cause the PCM 81
to mute the digital input. When this
happens, the Dig In Lvl display will show
both the level you selected, and the fact
that the signal is muted.

If you select the Dig In Lvl parameter while there is a lock, range,
or non-audio error, the display will continue to show the level you
have selected, and parenthetically show that the signal has been
muted.

Note, if Word Clock is set to Int, Dig In Lvl is disabled. You must
select Ext to process digital audio.

Error : Out of Range

(Press any button)

Audio Dig In Lvl

0.2 30% (Muted)

2-8