Red Panda Bitmap User Manual

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Thank you for purchasing the Red Panda bitmap. The bitmap is a bitcrusher, which reduces the sampling rate and
resolution of your signal. When a digital signal is resampled at a lower sampling rate, it creates copies of the signal
(aliasing). These copies fold back down to lower frequencies, creating new partials that are not harmonics of the original
signal.
When too few bits are used to represent a signal, each sample is rounded to the nearest allowed value and no longer
matches the true signal level. The rounding errors cause noise, called quantization noise, because the actual signal is
approximated using a small set of values.

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Output level

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Blend control

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Power: 9V center negative, 100 mA

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Audio output

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Expression/CV input (controls freq)

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Audio input (also switches power)

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Bit reduction / modulation rate

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Sampling frequency

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Bit reduction (crush) / modulation (mod) selection

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mod - waveform (triangle/square/random)
crush - input gain (low/medium/high)

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On/bypass indicator

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True bypass footswitch

Crush Mode

In crush mode, the middle knob sets the number of bits used to represent the signal, from 24 bits down to 1 bit includ­ing fractional bits. Middle settings add quantization noise and nonlinear distortion, similar to early samplers. Extreme
settings create square wave fuzz or dying battery sounds.

The freq knob sets the sampling rate. To see how it works, tune the Freq knob so that it sounds good on the root note,
then play a scale. Higher sampling rates can add sizzle to drum sounds. Middle rates create inharmonic sounds similar
to ring modulation, but which track the notes in strange ways. Low sampling rates warp the signal into new inharmonic
melodies.

Use the level (hi/lo) switch to adjust the input gain based on signal level:

- hi for single-coil pickups, or light strumming

- middle for most guitars

- lo for drum machines, synthesizers, and line-level signals

Choosing a level that does not match the input signal causes no harm and creates interesting eects. Using the lo
setting on quiet signals will cause the signal to sputter and cut out. Using the hi setting on line-level signals will give a
more saturated sound.

Mod Mode

In mod mode, the freq knob sets the sampling rate, as in crush mode. Instead of bit reduction, the middle knob sets
the modulation rate for the sampling rate. Sample rate modulation causes aliasing frequencies to shift above and below
the set rate. Lower rates add motion, while higher rates shred the signal into new textures. The waveform switch selects
the modulation waveform. Use the mix knob to blend with your original signal.

Bit Depth

Bit reduction reduces the number of allowed signal
levels. The smoothness of the output signal is related to
both the input signal level and the number of bits.

Sample Rate

When a signal is sampled at too low a rate, upper
harmonics fold back to lower frequencies.

Harmonics

Sound: 8-bit Sampler Sound: Overtones

Sound: Octave Fuzz Sound: Square Wave Fuzz

Sound: Random Modulation

Sound: Video Game Bass

Sample Settings

Use neck pickup, treble rolled back, volume 20%

Expression Pedals

Plug an expression pedal into the exp jack to control the freq knob. Any expression pedal with a 10k-50k ohm linear pot
will work. For example, the Roland EV-5, Moog EP-3, M-Audio EX-P, or Mission Engineering EP-1. You can also use an
Electro-Harmonix 8-Step Program to sequence the sampling rate. For control voltages, 0-3.3V on the tip is the correct
range, but so you can send +5V and use the freq knob to bring it down to 3.3V. The bitmap has current limiting in case
you use a TS cable, but it is best to use a 1/4” TRS cable with the ring unconnected. The Expert Sleepers “oating ring”
cable is an easy way to do that. We also sell suitable cables at store.redpandalab.com.
When an expression pedal is used, the freq knob sets the maximum value. If your expression pedal has a minimum value
knob, you can control the knob over a specic range of values.

Warranty

This product is warranted against defects in materials or workmanship for one (1) year from date of original purchase. It
does not cover damages or wear resulting from accident, misuse, abuse, or unauthorized adjustment and/or repair.
Should this product require service (or replacement at our option) while under warranty, please contact info@redpanda­lab.com.