PCM 81
Digital Effects
Processor
User Guide
Unpacking and Inspection
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.
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.
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 Subpart J of 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.
Lexicon Inc.
Copyright 1998
All Rights Reserved.
3 Oak Park
Bedford MA 01730-1441
Telephone 781-280-0300
Lexicon Part # 070-12614
Fax 781-280-0490
PCM 81
Digital Effects
Processor
User Guide
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 ylläpitoohjeita.
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.
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.
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 infor-
mation 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.
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.
Wichtige Sicherheitsanweisungen
Deutsch
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 Gebrauchsanweisungen
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.
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 Betriebsund Wartungsanweisungen in der mitgelieferten Dokumentation zu
finden sind.
Instrucciones importantes de seguridad
Español
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.
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.
Instructions de Sûreté Importantes
Français
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 audessus 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.
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.
Importanti norme di sicurezza
Italiano
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.
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.
Introduction
1. Product Overview
Block Diagram .................................................................................... 1-1
The Front Panel .................................................................................. 1-2
The Rear Panel................................................................................... 1-3
Installation Notes ................................................................................ 1-4
Mounting ...................................................................................... 1-4
Power Requirements.................................................................... 1-4
Audio Connections ....................................................................... 1-4
Control Connections..................................................................... 1-5
Connectors ................................................................................... 1-5
Setting Audio Levels .................................................................... 1-6
Headroom Display • Overload • Setting Analog and Digital
Input Level • Setting Output Level
Configurations .............................................................................. 1-8
Memory Cards.............................................................................. 1-9
2. Basic Operation
Modes of Operation ............................................................................ 2-1
Navigating a Matrix ...................................................................... 2-2
Info ............................................................................................... 2-3
Control Mode ...................................................................................... 2-4
Program and Register Banks............................................................ 2-17
Tempo Mode .................................................................................... 2-19
Editing an Effect................................................................................ 2-22
The Soft Knob ............................................................................ 2-22
The Soft Row ............................................................................. 2-23
Compare .................................................................................... 2-24
Bypass ....................................................................................... 2-24
Store operations ......................................................................... 2-25
Turning Memory Protection Off • Storing an Effect
Renaming the Effect • Renaming the ADJUST Knob Patch
Selecting a Bank and Register Location
The Full Edit Matrix .................................................................... 2-27
Creating a Soft Row
Patching ..................................................................................... 2-30
About Sources • The Patch Row • Assigning a Source
Patch Sources • Assigning a Destination • Assigning
Values • Jump • Patching Examples • Multiple Patches
with the Same Destination • Mod Row Patching
Contents
Contents, cont'd.
3. The Algorithms and their Parameters
About the Algorithms .......................................................................... 3-1
The 4-Voice Algorithms ...................................................................... 3-2
The Reverb Shell ......................................................................... 3-2
Concert Hall ................................................................................. 3-3
Plate ............................................................................................. 3-4
Chamber ...................................................................................... 3-5
Inverse ......................................................................................... 3-6
Infinite........................................................................................... 3-7
The 6-Voice Algorithms ...................................................................... 3-8
Glide>Hall .................................................................................... 3-9
Chorus+Rvb ............................................................................... 3-10
M-Band+Rvb .............................................................................. 3-12
The Resonant Chord Algorithms Res1>Plate and Res2>Plate.. 3-14
The 4-Voice and ^-Voice Parameters ............................................... 3-16
Chorus........................................................................................ 3-16
Controls ...................................................................................... 3-17
Delay Time ................................................................................. 3-19
Feedback/Cross-Feedback ........................................................ 3-21
Filters ......................................................................................... 3-22
Glide FX ..................................................................................... 3-22
Levels ......................................................................................... 3-23
Modulation.................................................................................. 3-24
Panning ...................................................................................... 3-28
Patching ..................................................................................... 3-29
Pitch ........................................................................................... 3-30
Resonance ................................................................................. 3-34
Reverb Design ........................................................................... 3-34
Reverb Time............................................................................... 3-36
The Pitch Algorithms......................................................................... 3-38
About the Pitch Algorithms ......................................................... 3-38
About Pitch Shifting .................................................................... 3-39
Quad>Hall .................................................................................. 3-40
Dual-Chmb ................................................................................. 3-42
Dual-Plt ...................................................................................... 3-44
Dual-Inv ...................................................................................... 3-46
Stereo-Chmb .............................................................................. 3-48
VSO-Chmb ................................................................................. 3-49
The Pitch Parameters ....................................................................... 3-51
MstrCents ................................................................................... 3-51
MstrScale ................................................................................... 3-51
Low Pitch.................................................................................... 3-51
Splice ......................................................................................... 3-51
GldResp ..................................................................................... 3-51
Voice 1-4 (or 1-2) ....................................................................... 3-52
Shift L+R .................................................................................... 3-52
Tips for Setting Pitch Parameters ..................................................... 3-52
Using the Submixer .......................................................................... 3-53
Sends ......................................................................................... 3-54
Returns....................................................................................... 3-54
Routing ....................................................................................... 3-55
Useful Configurations ................................................................. 3-55
Rvb and FX Block Controls ........................................................ 3-61
The Pitch Correct Algorithm and Its Parameters .............................. 3-63
4. The Presets
Program Bank 0.................................................................................. 4-2
Multi Effects (0.0-1.9) ................................................................... 4-2
Modulation Effects (2.0-3.5) ......................................................... 4-3
Special Effects (3.6-4.9) ............................................................... 4-5
Program Bank 1.................................................................................. 4-6
Rhythmic Echo and Delay Effects (0.0-3.6) ................................. 4-6
Ambience Effects (3.7-4.9)......................................................... 4-10
Program Bank 2................................................................................ 4-11
EQ Effects (0.0-1.0) ................................................................... 4-11
Spatial Effects (1.1-2.4).............................................................. 4-12
Gain Effects (2.5-4.0) ................................................................. 4-13
Resonant Chords (4.1-4.9)......................................................... 4-15
Program Bank 3................................................................................ 4-16
Reverb Effects (0.0-2.8) ............................................................. 4-16
Processed Reverb Effects (2.9-3.9) ........................................... 4-18
Remix Effects (4.0-4.9) .............................................................. 4-19
Program Bank 4................................................................................ 4-20
Vocal Shift (0.0-0.9) ................................................................... 4-20
Vocal Harmony (1.0-1.9) ............................................................ 4-21
Guitar Magic (2.0-2.9) ................................................................ 4-22
Instrument Shift & Harmony (3.0-3.9)......................................... 4-23
Percussion & Tempo (4.0-4.9) ................................................... 4-24
Program Bank 5................................................................................ 4-24
Sci-Fi FX (0.0-0.9) ...................................................................... 4-24
Pitch & Delay (1.0-1.9) ............................................................... 4-25
Pitch Sequences (2.0-2.9).......................................................... 4-26
Pads & Drones (3.0-3.7) ............................................................ 4-27
Utility Programs (3.8-3.9) ........................................................... 4-27
Pitch Correct (4.0-4.9) ................................................................ 4-28
Alphabetical Index of Presets ........................................................... 4-29
Contents, cont'd.
5. MIDI Operation
Selecting a MIDI Channel ................................................................... 5-1
Controlling PCM 81 Tempo Rate with MIDI Clock .............................. 5-2
MIDI Tempo Control • Using the PCM 81 as a MIDI Control
Source • Slaving two or more PCM 81s
Controller Quirks................................................................................. 5-4
The ADJUST Knob, Foot Pedal, Foot Sw 1 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
Automation ......................................................................................... 5-7
Bulk Data Dumps................................................................................ 5-8
MIDI Implementation Chart................................................................. 5-9
Contents, cont'd.
6. Troubleshooting
Low Voltage ........................................................................................ 6-2
Overheating ........................................................................................ 6-2
Common MIDI Problems .................................................................... 6-2
Operational Problems ......................................................................... 6-3
Power On Behavior............................................................................. 6-3
Reinitialization .................................................................................... 6-3
Restoring Factory Default Settings ..................................................... 6-4
7. Specifications
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.
Introduction
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 P1
Rhythmic Echo
& Delay Effects
Ambience Effects
Bank P2
EQ Effects
Spatial Effects
Gain Effects
Resonant Chord
Effects
Bank P3
Reverb Effects
Processed Reverb
Effects
Remix Effects
Bank P4
Vocal Shift
Vocal Harmony
Guitar Magic
Instrument Shift &
Percussion & Tempo
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. 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 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 postprocessing for the reverb. The 6-Voice algorithms: Glide>Hall, Chorus+Rvb, MBand+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, Dual-Chmb, 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.
The Presets
Harmony
The Algorithms
Bank P5
Sci-Fi FX
Pitch & Delay
Pitch Sequences
Pads & Drones
Utility Programs
Pitch Correct
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.
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 well as receive MIDI tempo from an external
sequencer or drum machine. In the PCM 81, tempo can control LFO speeds and
Tempo Control
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
Memory Cards
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.
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.
User Interface
PCM 81 and PCM 80 SRAM cards are readable by either system.
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.
Product Overview
1
Product Overview
Block Diagram
1-1
PCM 81 User Guide
The Front Panel
Headroom
5-position indicator for
analog and digital signal levels and overload conditions.
INPUT
Adjusts analog input
level.
Display
Two rows of 20 alphanumeric characters
display effect names
and ID numbers, and
parameter names and
values.
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.
SELECT
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.
Lexicon
POWER
On/Off.
Memory Card
Slot for optional preset
ROM or register RAM
cards. Press Eject
button to remove card.
Up/Down
Press to move up and
down through a program, register, or parameter matrix.
Program Banks
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.
Load/✽
In Program or Register mode, loads the
selected program. In
Edit mode, scrolls
through any multi-field
parameter.
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.
Store
Initiates register store
function.
Edit
Enables parameter
selection for editing of
values.
Compare
Active in Program,
Register, and Edit
modes. Press to compare the active version
of the current effect
with the most recently
stored version.
Control
Enables selection of
system and global parameters.
Bypass
Bypasses or mutes
audio, depending on
the setting of each
program's bypass parameter.
Tempo
Press to display tempo
rate and to initiate
tempo functions. LED
flashes in time with
current tempo rate.
Tap
Sets tempo. Press
twice in rhythm to establish tempo rate.
Press once to reset
LFO.
1-2
Product Overview
The Rear Panel
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.
AC Power
Standard 3-pin IEC
power connector. 100240V, 50-60Hz automatic switching to correct voltage range.
MIDI
IN
Receives MIDI information from other
MIDI equipment such
as master keyboard
controllers, MIDI foot
controllers, sequencers and synthesizers.
THRU
Passes any MIDI data
received without
change.
OUT
Transmits MIDI data to
other equipment.
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.
Footswitch
1/4" Tip/Ring/Sleeve
phone jack for two independent momentary footswitches
Input Level
2-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).
Foot Controller
1/4" Tip/Ring/Sleeve
phone jack provided
for footpedal with
10kΩ to 100Ω impedance.
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.
1-3
PCM 81 User Guide
Installation Notes
Lexicon
Mounting
Power Requirements
Audio Connections
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.
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.
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.
Mono Applications
Use a Y-connector inserted at the analog inputs and outputs to have the signal
summed to mono.
1-4
NOTE
Be careful to keep input and output to all channels wired consistently. Out-ofphase 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, lowcapacitance, controlled-impedance, data communication, twisted-shielded pair
cable. Microphone cable may introduce a significant amount of jitter into
the signal, causing distortion.
Product Overview
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 3.
MIDI
5-pin DIN connectors are provided for MIDI IN, THRU and OUT. Use standard
5-pin DIN MIDI cable assemblies, available from your local dealer.
Signal Mating 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
Control Connections
Connectors
S/PDIF 1/4" EIAJ Consuner 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
1-5
PCM 81 User Guide
Lexicon
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.
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
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 the Level parameter of the subject data stream be set to 100%,
while the Level parameter of the other is set to 0%.
1-6
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.
Unbalanced Balanced
overload: > 0dBu >+20dBu
acceptable: 0dBu to -22dBu +20dBu to -2dBu
too low (noisy): <-22dBu <-2dBu
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.
NOTE: When using analog outputs as primary outputs, set Word Size to 20
bits.
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.
Product Overview
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.
1-7
PCM 81 User Guide
Configurations
Connection to a
mixing console's
Lexicon
effects sends
Effects Send (R)
Effects Send (L)
Channel Input or
Effects Return (R)
Channel Input or
Effects Return (L)
1-8
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 above. 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.
Product Overview
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.
Memory Cards
Memory cards can be used to store
PCM 81 registers, or setups.
1-9
PCM 81 User Guide
Lexicon
1-10
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.
Basic Operation
2
Basic 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.
The PCM 81 is always operating in one of these modes.
Here, the lighted LED indicates that Control mode is active.
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.
• 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.
Modes of Operation
2-1
LexiconPCM 81 User Guide
Navigating a Matrix
Simultaneously pressing
Up and Down will always
return you to 0.0
↑
The Up and Down
buttons move you
vertically through
the rows of the
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 arrangment 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 SELECT knob moves you
horizontally across the matrix.
←
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
range of available settings for the control you have selected.
→
An asterisk in the display indicates that
Load /✱ is active and, depending on the
mode, will load effects or display
additional parameters when pressed.
XXXXXXX ✱XXXXXXXXXX
3.6 XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Your current location in the matrix is shown
in the lower lefthand corner of the display.
Go or Pro
2-2
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.
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.
Basic Operation
The PCM 81 offers an extensive set of informative display messages which can
be activated from the front panel.
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.
Info messages are displayed when a button is pressed and
held down. Generally, Info messages inform you of the
function of a button, or provide current status information.
Displays the currently loaded
effect name,bank, and matrix
location.
Displays the current function
assigned to the Up button and
the ADJUST knob.
Displays the current function
assigned to the Down button
and the SELECT knob.
Displays action needed to
perform a store operation or
Memory Protect message when
store function is disabled.
Inactive until an effect has been
altered, then displays "Press to
hear stored effect"
Displays the current tempo and the
clock source (MIDI or Internal).
Info
Displays the type of system
bypass currently selected,
and the current status (on
or off).
2-3
LexiconPCM 81 User Guide
Control Mode
Simultaneously press Up
and Down to return to 0.0.
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 subparameter. From any point in the matrix, press Up or Down together
with Load /✱ to backstep 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 below, followed by descriptions of each
available selection.
2-4
Row 0
Audio
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
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.
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.
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 NoLock (Int:44.1)
Basic Operation
Upon loss of lock, or reception of nonaudio 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.
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LexiconPCM 81 User Guide
Parity, Biphase: Indicate that at least one bit (and therefore at 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 (■) 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 (■ CRC) and
that there have been more than (>) 9999 instances of CRC errors since Word Clock was
last set to Ext.
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).
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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 nonaudio data, the digital input will be muted. Whenever this occurs, the PCM 81
remains functional, while an error message, such as those shown below, is
displayed.
Basic Operation
Error : Lock
(Press any button)
Error : Non Audio
(Press any button)
Error : Out Of Range
(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.
Audio Dig In Lvl
0.2 30% (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.
0.3 WordSize
The WordSize control allows you to dither the PCM 81 24-bit word size to match
the device receiving digital audio from the PCM 81. If you are recording to the
digital input of a DAT machine, select 16 bits. If you have a digital console with
a 24-bit bus, select 24 bits.
If you are using the analog outputs, select 20 bits (the default setting).
0.4 SCMS
Digital audio signals, in order to comply with copyright standards, are encoded
with control information which can limit the ability to copy audio data. This control
information is generally known as SCMS (Serial Copy Management System).
Under this system, you can choose to have the audio material processed by the
PCM 81 encoded to allow one of three levels of copy restriction. To make your
selection, use ADJUST to select No Copy, One Copy, or Multi Copy.
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System
LexiconPCM 81 User Guide
0.5 Emphasis Bit
The Emphasis control allows you to explicitly set the emphasis "flag" in the digital
audio, or to pass along the incoming signal without changing its emphasis
coding. (The PCM 81 does not perform any emphasis or de-emphasis as part
of its signal processing. The AES input/output path will correctly pass either 15/
50 or CCITT emphasis.) The choices available with ADJUST are: Yes, No, and
Pass Thru.
0.6 Output Level
This control allows you to select the maximum output level at the PCM 81's
analog outputs. Use ADJUST to select +4 dBu, or –10 dBu.
Exercise care when switching this control, as a 14dB level change
instantly occurs when going from -10dBu to +4dBu.
1.0 Edit Mode
The PCM 81 has been designed with a "plug and play" feature called Go mode.
In this mode, the most useful parameters of each effect are grouped together in
a single row which is available whenever you press Edit.
Each PCM 81 preset has a set of Go mode parameters which we've selected for
you. When shipped, the PCM 81 will power up in Go mode, with the first preset
(P0 0.0) loaded. Press Edit to display the first available parameter in the Soft
Row.
If you want access to the full parameter matrix for any effect, including the Soft
Row parameters, use ADJUST to select Pro mode. Now, when Edit is pressed,
you can select any parameter for adjustment, and customize any effect with your
own Soft Row assignments. For more information about the Soft Row, see
Editing an Effect later in this chapter.
1.1 Mix Mode
Each PCM 81 effect has its own Mix parameter, with the Mix setting stored as
an integral part of the effect. Mix Mode allows you to override these individual
Mix settings and set a global Mix value for all effects. This is useful when using
a mixing console's controls to set the amount of wet signal in a mix. In such a
case, you can use this control to set all PCM 81 effects to 100% wet.
When shipped, the PCM 81 has the Mix Mode set to Pgm. This setting
determines that effects will be loaded with their stored Mix settings, and allows
the individual Mix controls in the edit matrix of each effect to be adjusted from
0-100% Wet. To set a global Mix value, use ADJUST to select Global, press
Load/✱ to display the current value, and use ADJUST to assign any value from
0-100% Wet.
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1.2 Tempo Mode
The PCM 81 gives you an exciting new approach to working with delay times and
modulation parameters. Now you can set these parameters in beats, allowing
you to control your effects in a completely musical way. Each PCM 81 effect has
its own Tempo parameters, with tempo settings stored as an integral part of the
effect. These include: Tempo Rate, Tempo Beat, Tempo Source (internal or
MIDI), Tap Duration, and Tap Average. The Global setting here allows you to
override individual Tempo Rate settings with a global value which can then be
changed on the fly.
When shipped, the PCM 81 has the Tempo Mode set to Pgm, with each effect
driven by its own stored tempo rate. To change to a global Tempo Rate, use
ADJUST to select Global, press Load/✱ to display the current tempo in BPM
(beats per minute), then use ADJUST to assign a global tempo value of 40400BPM.
Whether Tempo Mode is set to Global or Pgm, you can set a new tempo rate
by pressing the front panel Tap button twice. Alternatively, you can choose to
have tempo set automatically from incoming MIDI clock. The rate you tap, or the
MIDI tempo, will be displayed here.
For more information about working with the tempo parameters, see Tempo
Mode later in this chapter.
Basic Operation
1.3 Bypass Mode/Bypass Src
This control alows you to determine the behavior of the PCM 81 when the front
panel Bypass button is pressed. You can also assign an external controller to
perform identically to the front panel button. When the Bypass button is
pressed, the LED will light, and a message indicating bypass type will be
displayed. Pressing Bypass again will turn bypass off.
The choices available via ADJUST are:
AllMute: Mutes both the input and the output signal, giving com-
plete silence.
InputMute: Mutes the input to the PCM 81, allowing the tail of the
effect to ring out. (This is the default setting.)
OutputMute: Mutes the output. Audio signals are still being fed to the
PCM 81, so processed audio returns immediately when
Bypass is turned off.
Bypass: Completely bypasses the PCM 81, passing unproc-
essed audio directly through to the outputs.
To assign an external controller to perform the selected bypass function, press
Load/✱ to display Bypass Src. Use ADJUST to select a footswitch or any MIDI
controller (or Off). Once a source is selected, it will perform the same function
assigned to the front panel Bypass button.
1.4 Pgm Bypass
This control allows you to determine the behavior of the PCM 81 when a new
effect is loaded. The choices available are: AllMute or Bypass.
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