Rocktron Chameleon On-Line User Manual

PROGRAMMABLE 24-BIT DSP GUITAR PREAMP

User's Manual

HUSH® Licensed by

May be covered by one or more of the following:

U.S. Patents #4538297, 4647876, 4696044, 4745309, 4881047,

4893099, 5124657, 5263091, 5268527, 5319713, 5333201,

5402498 and 5493617.

Other patents pending. Foreign patents pending.

®

Your Chameleon Online has been tested and complies with the following Standards and
Directives as set forth by the European Union:

Council Directive(s): 89/336/EEC Electromagnetic Compatibility
Standard(s): EN55022, EN50082-1

This means that this product has been designed to meet stringent guidelines on how
much RF energy it can emit, and that it should be immune from other sources of interfer­ence when properly used. Improper use of this equipment could result in increased RF
emissions, which may or may not interfere with other electronic products.

To insure against this possibility, always use good shielded cables for all audio input and
output connections. This will help insure compliance with the Directive(s).

Copyright © 1997 Rocktron Corporation.
All rights reserved.

Contents

1. Introduction................................................................................................. 1

PRECAUTIONS ............................................................................................................ 2

POWER REQUIREMENTS ........................................................................................... 2

OPERATING TEMPERATURE .................................................................................... 2

2. Quick Reference ......................................................................................... 3

Selecting a Preset .......................................................................................................... 3

Changing Preset Parameters ........................................................................................ 3

Storing Changed Parameters ........................................................................................ 3

3. Front Panel.................................................................................................. 4

4. Rear Panel ................................................................................................... 6

5. Connections ................................................................................................ 8

Using the Chameleon with a stereo power amp and guitar cabinets ............................ 8

Using the Chameleon direct into a mixing console ....................................................... 9

6. Operating Format ..................................................................................... 10

Chameleon Functions and Parameter Descriptions .................................................... 11

GLOBAL Function ........................................................................................................ 12

MIXER Function ........................................................................................................... 13

HIGH GAIN Function ................................................................................................... 14

LOW GAIN Function .................................................................................................... 15

HUSH® Function ......................................................................................................... 16

PRE EQ (EXPERT) Function ...................................................................................... 17

POST EQ (EXPERT) Function .................................................................................... 18

COMPRESSOR Function ............................................................................................ 19

SPEAKER SIMULATOR Function .............................................................................. 20

WAH-WAH Function .................................................................................................... 21

PHASER Function ....................................................................................................... 22

FLANGER Function ..................................................................................................... 23

TREMOLO Function .................................................................................................... 24

PITCH SHIFT Function ............................................................................................... 25

PITCH SHIFT INTERVALS ......................................................................................... 26

CHORUS Function ...................................................................................................... 27

DELAY Function .......................................................................................................... 28

REVERB Function ....................................................................................................... 30

7. Chameleon Configurations ...................................................................... 31

H-GAIN, CRS, DLY, REV Configuration ..................................................................... 31

H-GAIN, FLAN, DLY, REV Configuration .................................................................... 34

H-GAIN, TREM, DLY, REV Configuration ................................................................... 37

H-GAIN, PSHF, DLY, REV Configuration ................................................................... 40

WAH, H-GAIN, DLY, REV Configuration ..................................................................... 43

PHAS, H-GAIN, DLY, REV Configuration ................................................................... 46

L-GAIN, CRS, DLY, REV Configuration ...................................................................... 49

L-GAIN, FLAN, DLY, REV Configuration .................................................................... 52

L-GAIN, TREM, DLY, REV Configuration ................................................................... 55

L-GAIN, PSHF, DLY, REV Configuration .................................................................... 58

WAH, L-GAIN, DLY, REV Configuration ..................................................................... 61

PHASE, L-GAIN, DLY, REV Configuration ................................................................. 64

8. Operating the Chameleon ........................................................................ 67

Selecting a preset: ....................................................................................................... 67

Changing preset parameters: ...................................................................................... 68

Storing changed preset parameters: ............................................................................ 69

Selecting a configuration: ............................................................................................ 71

Editing a preset title: .................................................................................................... 73

Controller Assignments ............................................................................................... 75

Tap Delay .................................................................................................................... 78

Program Changes ........................................................................................................ 80

MIDI Channels ............................................................................................................. 82

MIDI Dump/Load .......................................................................................................... 84

Factory Restore ........................................................................................................... 90

Selecting a Power on Preset: ...................................................................................... 94

Using the Chameleon with a Rocktron All Access® in REMOTE mode ..................... 95

9. Appendix.................................................................................................... 98

Error Messages ............................................................................................................ 98

MIDI Implementation .................................................................................................... 99

Specifications ............................................................................................................ 100

1. Introduction

Congratulations on your purchase of the Rocktron Chameleon® Online!

The Chameleon Online features presets created and uploaded by Rocktron users from all over the world to
Rocktron's World Wide Web site. These presets can be easily updated from the "Patch Bay" at Rocktron's web
page. In addition, you can also upload your own custom presets to share with other online users. For instructions
on downloading and uploading Chameleon presets, please visit our web site at "http://www.rocktron.com" and click
"Patch Bay".

The Chameleon Online is a 24-bit DSP professional guitar preamp providing 12 unparalleled effect algorithms
and superb sound quality never before heard from a digital guitar preamp. Complete programmability and full MIDI
implementation are coupled with a user-friendly operating format to ensure that designing unique and useful preset
sounds is as simple as possible.

In addition, the Chameleon® Online also features:

• Advanced Speaker Simulation, which provides a strikingly realistic approxima-
tion of a miked speaker cabinet at line-level for direct mixer input or headphone
listening.

• Full parametric Pre and Post EQ gives the user complete EQ control over each
preset.

• Hush Systems' HUSH® noise reduction provides noise reduction while playing
and complete silence when not.

• Variac Simulation, like a conventional Variac, adjusts the level at which the
preamp begins to distort. This provides more gain in high-gain applications, and
allows for full-bodied cleaner presets which just begin to distort when the strings
are attacked harder.

• Internal Wah-Wah allows the player to use an expression pedal for Wah-Wah
effects instead of running long audio cables out to a conventional Wah-Wah
pedal.

• High-quality digital effects, including:

- Reverb - Phasing

- Tremolo - Flanging

- Pitch Shifting - Compression

- Chorus - Delay

• XLR Outputs for direct mixer input.

For a thorough explanation of the Chameleon Online and its features, please read this manual carefully and
keep it for future reference. After removing the Chameleon from the box, save all packing materials in case it
becomes necessary to ship the unit.

1

PRECAUTIONS

NOTE: IT IS VERY IMPORTANT THAT YOU READ THIS SECTION TO PROVIDE
YEARS OF TROUBLE FREE USE. THIS UNIT REQUIRES CAREFUL HANDLING.

• All warnings on this equipment and in the operating instructions should be
adhered to and all operating instructions should be followed.

• Do not use this equipment near water. Care should be taken so that objects
do not fall and liquids are not spilled into the unit through any openings.

• The power cord should be unplugged from the outlet when left unused for
a long period of time.

DO NOT ATTEMPT TO SERVICE THIS EQUIPMENT. THIS EQUIPMENT
SHOULD BE SERVICED BY QUALIFIED PERSONNEL ONLY. DO NOT MAKE
ANY INTERNAL ADJUSTMENTS OR ADDITIONS TO THIS EQUIPMENT AT
ANY TIME. DO NOT TAMPER WITH INTERNAL ELECTRONIC COMPONENTS
AT ANY TIME. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS MAY VOID THE
WARRANTY OF THIS EQUIPMENT, AS WELL AS CAUSING SHOCK HAZARD.

POWER REQUIREMENTS

This unit accepts power from the 9VAC/2A adaptor supplied with the unit. This 9 volt
RMS AC voltage is internally processed by a voltage doubler which generates a bipolar
±15 volts to maintain the headroom and sound quality of professional, studio quality
equipment. Using an external power source such as this minimizes excessive noise and
hum problems often associated with internal transformers, providing optimal performance
for the user.

OPERATING TEMPERATURE

Do not expose this unit to excessive heat. This unit is designed to operate between 32° F
and 104° F (0° C and 40° C). This unit may not function properly under extreme tempera­tures.

2

2. Quick Reference

Selecting a Preset

STEP 1 Turn the PRESET control to the desired preset.

STEP 2 Press the RECALL button to call up the

selected preset.

Changing Preset Parameters

STEP 3 Turn the FUNCTION SELECT control to the

desired effect or utility function.

STEP 4 Turn the PARAMETER SELECT control to the

parameter you wish to alter under the selected
effect or utility function.

STEP 5 Use the PARAMETER ADJUST control to

select the new parameter value.

STEP 6 The COMPARE button may be used to compare

the sound of the altered value to the stored
value.

Storing Changed Parameters

STEP 7 Press the STORE button to start the storing

procedure.

STEP 8 If you wish to save the altered preset in the

current preset location, press the STORE
button a second time.

If you wish to store the altered preset in a
different preset location, turn the PRESET
control to the desired preset number, then
press STORE a second time.

STEP 9 When storing into a different preset location,

the Chameleon will display "COPY TITLE
TOO?". If you wish to copy the title from the
previous preset, press STORE a third time. If
you do not wish to copy the title, turn any knob
to exit the storing procedure.

3

3. Front Panel

1 POWER switch

2 RECALL button

This button is used to recall the displayed preset.

3 PRESET control

This control scrolls through the successive presets.

4 CONFIG button/led

The status of this button determines whether the Chameleon will display either the preset
number and title or the configuration of the currently displayed preset. The configuration
display indicates the effects that the displayed preset executes and, in most cases, the
order in which they are executed.

The LED above the CONFIG button is lit when the configuration is displayed.

5 DISPLAY panel

The DISPLAY panel provides 16 characters consisting of 14 segments each.

6 EFFECT BYPASS button/led

When lit, the Pre and Post effects are bypassed and only the Compressor/Preamp signal is
passed to the Chameleon outputs This button does not affect the condition of the Speaker
Simulator.

7 COMPARE button

The COMPARE button may be used to compare an altered parameter value to its stored
value.

This button may also be used to compare between the altered and stored values of multiple
parameters under the same function heading (i.e. "Reverb", "Mixer", etc.).

Note: If comparing an altered value to the stored value and the stored value is

currently being viewed, turning a knob or pressing a button that
changes the parameter value displayed will cancel the previous altered
value. This will also occur if a MIDI Control change is received while
viewing the stored value(s).

4

8 PARAMETER ADJUST control

This control is used to adjust a displayed parameter value. When the parameter is
changed from its original value, the LED above the STORE button will light until either
the new value is stored, a new preset is selected or the parameter is returned to its
original value.

9 STORE button/led

This button is used to store values into the Chameleon memory when altered. See "Storing
Changed Preset Parameters" for more information on this procedure.

10 PARAMETER SELECT control

When adjusting parameter values, this control will scroll through the available param­eters under the current function heading.

In the "Title Edit" function, this control will scroll through the character locations to be
edited.

11 FUNCTION SELECT control

This control allows access to each function of the Chameleon, depending on what configu­ration is currently recalled.

12 SPEAKER SIMULATOR indicator

When lit, this LED indicates that the Speaker Simulator is activated for the current preset.

13 OUTPUT LEVEL control

This control is used to adjust the output level of the unit at the unbalanced outputs.

14 INPUT LEVEL meter

These LEDs provide visual indication of the peak level of the input signal when in the
Preset Select mode. For the optimal signal-to-noise ratio, it is best to adjust the input level
so that the last LED (0dB) is rarely lit. This will guard against the possibility of
overdriving the unit.

These LEDs also display the final digital mixer output levels when any other functions are
selected. This will help you to guard against clipping the output of the mixer at the digital­to-analog converter.

15 INPUT LEVEL control

This control adjusts the unit's gain to match the signal level at the input of the Chameleon.
Use the INPUT LEVEL meter to determine the setting of this control.

16 INPUT jack

This standard, unbalanced mono 1/4" jack is used to provide input to the unit. It is front
panel mounted for easy access.

5

4. Rear Panel

1 BALANCED OUTPUT LEVEL control

This control determines the output level at the XLR BALANCED OUTPUTS. Note that the
balanced outputs pass the same signals as the unbalanced outputs, except that the levels
are independently adjustable.

2 (L) BALANCED OUTPUT connector

This balanced XLR connector provides the left balanced output of the Chameleon for
direct use into a mixing console.

3 (R) BALANCED OUTPUT connector

This balanced XLR connector provides the right balanced output of the Chameleon for
direct use into a mixing console.

4 (L) UNBALANCED OUTPUT jack

This 1/4" unbalanced RTS jack provides the left unbalanced output of the Chameleon for
use with a guitar amplifier or rack system setup.

In addition, this jack also allows for the connection of stereo headphones (600ohms
impedance or greater).

5 (R) UNBALANCED OUTPUT jack

This 1/4" unbalanced RTS jack provides the right unbalanced output of the Chameleon for
use with a guitar amplifier or rack system setup.

6 FOOTSWITCH jack

This 1/4" mono jack allows for the connection of a momentary footswitch to control the
Tapped Delay feature of the Chameleon. The Tapped Delay feature allows the player to
set (or reset) the current delay time by tapping the footswitch. The new delay time will be
based on the length of time between two taps. For more information on this feature, refer
to the "Tap Delay" section .

7 REMOTE jack

This 7-pin DIN connector is provided for the connection of a Rocktron All Access® MIDI
footswitch, which can be configured to act as a dedicated remote footswitch for the
Chameleon. This feature allows the user to access Chameleon functions and parameters
via the remote footswitch.

6

8 PHANTOM POWER jack

This 2.5mm PIN jack offers the ability to power Rocktron MIDI foot controllers from a 7­pin MIDI cable which connects from the Rocktron MIDI foot controller to the MIDI IN
jack on the rear panel of the Chameleon. This eliminates the need to find an AC outlet
near where the footpedal would be placed during a performance, or the need to run an
extension cord out to the footswitch. Instead of inserting the AC adaptor into the
"POWER" jack of the footswitch as you would normally, plug it into the "PHANTOM
POWER" jack on the Chameleon. This will power the Rocktron MIDI foot controller
through pins 6 and 7 of the MIDI cable connecting the two units. A 7-pin MIDI cable must
be used and is available from your Rocktron dealer.

9 MIDI IN jack

This 7-pin DIN connector must be connected to the MIDI OUT jack of the transmitting
MIDI device via a standard MIDI cable, or to the MIDI THRU jack of the preceding
device (if the Chameleon is within a chain of MIDI devices).

Pins 6 and 7 of this connector carry the phantom power to power a Rocktron MIDI foot
controller when a 7-pin MIDI cable is used.

10 MIDI THRU/OUT jack

This standard 5-pin DIN connector can be connected to the MIDI IN jack of another
device via a standard MIDI cable. There are limitations to the number of devices that can
be chained (or series connected) in this fashion.

Note: Inherently in MIDI there is a limit to the number of devices which can be chained
together (connected in series). With more than 3 devices, a slight distortion of the MIDI
signal can occur (due to signal degradation) which can cause an error in MIDI signal
transmission. Should this problem arise, a MIDI Thru box can be used which connects
directly to the MIDI device which transmits MIDI information and has multiple connec­tors for the multiple devices receiving MIDI. MIDI cables should not exceed 50 feet (15
meters) in length.

11 POWER jack

This 4-pin DIN connector accepts power from the 9VAC adaptor supplied with the unit.

7

5. Connections

Using the Chameleon with a stereo power amp and guitar cabinets

8

Using the Chameleon direct into a mixing console

9

6. Operating Format

The Chameleon provides 254 stored sounds called presets. Any of the 254 presets
can be called up at any time via the front panel PRESET control (used to select a preset)
and RECALL button (used to call up the selected preset), or by a remote MIDI footswitch.

The root of each preset's sound is its configuration. The configuration determines both
the effects available for a given preset and the order in which those effects are executed.
The Chameleon provides 12 fixed configurations to achieve a wide array of preset sounds,
any of which may be instantly called up at any time.

Chameleon Configurations:

HIGH-GAIN DISTORTION • CHORUS • DELAY • REVERB
HIGH-GAIN DISTORTION • FLANGE • DELAY • REVERB
HIGH-GAIN DISTORTION • TREMOLO • DELAY • REVERB
HIGH-GAIN DISTORTION • PITCH SHIFT • DELAY • REVERB
WAH • HIGH-GAIN DISTORTION • DELAY • REVERB
PHASE SHIFT • HIGH-GAIN DISTORTION • DELAY • REVERB
LOW-GAIN DISTORTION • CHORUS • DELAY • REVERB
LOW-GAIN DISTORTION • FLANGE • DELAY • REVERB
LOW-GAIN DISTORTION • TREMOLO • DELAY • REVERB
LOW-GAIN DISTORTION • PITCH SHIFT • DELAY • REVERB
WAH • LOW-GAIN DISTORTION • DELAY • REVERB
PHASE SHIFT • LOW-GAIN DISTORTION • DELAY • REVERB

10

To see the configuration of each preset, press the CONFIG button on the front panel
of the Chameleon - the LED above the CONFIG button will light and the display will show
the configuration for the current preset. Turning the PRESET control will then scroll
through each successive preset (displaying its configuration instead of its preset number
and title).

The configuration of each preset can also be changed from within the desired preset.
For more information on selecting a configuration, see
section titled "Operating the Chameleon".

Selecting a Configuration

in the

Chameleon Functions and Parameter Descriptions

Each Chameleon preset is divided up into individual blocks called functions (such as
"Mixer", "Reverb", etc.). Within each function of each configuration is a set of controls
which allow you to manipulate various aspects of that function. These controls are called
parameters. It is the setting of each of the parameters which determines the overall sound
of each preset.

The Chameleon is set up to allow you to first access each function (via the FUNC­TION SELECT control), then the parameter list for each function (via the PARAMETER
SELECT control) and finally the adjustable value for each parameter (via the PARAM­ETER ADJUST control).

STEP 3:

Turn to alter the value of

the selected parameter.

STEP 2:

Turn to select a parameter

within the function.

STEP 1:

Turn to select

a function.

The functions available for each preset are dependent upon which configuration is
currently recalled. The remainder of this section will describe each of the effect-based
functions and the associated adjustable parameters they provide.

The remaining functions are utility-based, and are described in the section titled
"Operating the Chameleon".

11

GLOBAL Function

The first function displayed after turning the FUNCTION SELECT control is the Global function. The param­eters provided in this function affect all presets (i.e. the settings stored for these parameters are the same for all
presets).

The PARAMETER SELECT control will allow you to access these Global parameters:

OUTPUT

SPKR SIM

HUSH OFFSET

MUTE

The OUTPUT parameter determines whether the output of the Chameleon is a stereo
(left and right) signal or two mono signals.

This SPEAKER SIMULATOR parameter under the Global function allows you to globally
(all presets) lock the Speaker Simulator off (LOCKOFF) so that it will always be off for all
presets - regardless of the status of the "SPKR SIM" parameter under the Speaker
Simulator function. It may also be locked on for the left channel (LOCK L) or on for both
channels (LOCK B).

Note: The Chameleon will only recognize the "SPKR SIM" parameter under the Speaker
Simulator function when this parameter is stored as UNLOCK.

The HUSH OFFSET parameter allows you to globally (all presets) adjust the HUSH
Expander Threshold. This means that if this parameter is altered from 0dB to +3dB, the
Expander Threshold will be 3dB higher for all presets. This feature can be useful when
switching from a quiet guitar with passive electronics to a noisy guitar with active elec­tronics - as the active guitar would require a higher Threshold level in all presets.

The MUTE parameter allows you to mute the output of the Chameleon. This feature is
especially useful when changing guitars during a live set. If a Rocktron All Access® is
used in remote mode with the Chameleon, a single All Access button can be configured
as a momentary switch which will mute the output when it is held down. (See "Using a
Chameleon with a Rocktron All Access in REMOTE mode".)

®

12

MIXER Function

The next function displayed after turning the FUNCTION SELECT control is the Mixer function. The Mixer
function parameters are included in all presets - regardless of which configuration is currently recalled - although
the parameter values stored in this function are only for the currently recalled preset.

This digital mixer allows you to control most signal levels pertaining to each preset's configuration and stores
these levels for each preset.

The PARAMETER SELECT control will allow you to access these Mixer parameters:

VOLUME

LEFT OUT LVL

RIGHT OUT LVL

MIX DIR/EFF

DIR PAN

DELAY LVL

REVERB LVL

The VOLUME parameter determines the overall signal level of the current preset.
The LEFT OUT LEVEL parameter allows you alter the level of the left channel output of

the current preset independent of the right channel.
The RIGHT OUT LEVEL parameter allows you alter the level of the right channel output

of the current preset independent of the left channel.
The DIR/EFF MIX parameter is used to define the ratio of direct signal level to effect

(Chorus, Flange, Pitch Shift) signal level.
The DIRECT PAN parameter allows you to pan the direct signal to the left or right.
The DELAY LEVEL parameter determines the overall level of the delayed signal at the

output relative to the direct signal and other effect signals. This parameter can also be
accessed from the Delay function parameter list.

The REVERB LEVEL parameter determines the level of the reverb signal at the output
relative to the direct signal and other effect signals. This parameter can also be accessed
from the Reverb function parameter list.

13

HIGH GAIN Function

The HIGH GAIN function is only accessible in configurations which display "H-GAIN" in the configuration title.
The preamp stage in these configurations is set up to provide high gain levels for maximum sustain and distortion.

The PARAMETER SELECT control will allow you to access these High Gain parameters:

GAIN

VARlAC ADJUST

BASS LVL

MID LVL

TREBLE LVL

The GAIN parameter determines the gain value in the distortion stage.
The VARIAC ADJUST parameter adjusts the level at which the preamp stage in the

Chameleon begins to distort. A Variac is a voltage attenuating device that plugs into an
AC wall outlet and adjusts the voltage level to any device which is plugged into it. For
years, many guitarists have plugged their amplifier heads into a Variac and reduced the
voltage coming into the amplifier from the AC wall outlet. This allows the amplifier tubes
to reach saturation at a lower input level and increases the gain produced. The VARIAC
ADJUST parameter operates in a similar manner as a conventional Variac - where
lowering the parameter value lowers the level at which saturation will take place.

The post BASS LEVEL parameter adjusts the amount of low frequency information at the
output of each preset. This parameter is also accessible from the "Post EQ (Expert)"
function. (In the Post EQ function, the center frequency and bandwidth of this EQ section
are also
adjustable.)

The post MID LEVEL parameter adjusts the amount of mid frequency information at the
output of each preset. This parameter is also accessible from the "Post EQ (Expert)"
function. (In the Post EQ function, the center frequency and bandwidth of this EQ section
are also adjustable.)

The post TREBLE LEVEL parameter adjusts the amount of high frequency information at
the output of each preset. This parameter is also accessible from the "Post EQ (Expert)"
function. (In the Post EQ function, the center frequency and bandwidth of this EQ section
are also adjustable.)

14

PRESENCE LVL

The post PRESENCE LEVEL parameter also adjusts the amount of high frequency
information at the output of each preset. This parameter is also accessible from the "Post
EQ (Expert)" function. (In the Post EQ configuration, the center frequency and bandwidth
of this EQ section are also adjustable.

LOW GAIN Function

The LOW GAIN function is only accessible in configurations which display "L-GAIN" in the configuration title.
The preamp stage in these configurations provides four distortion types, and can also be used for clean tones.

The PARAMETER SELECT control will allow you to access these Low Gain parameters:

GAIN

DIST

BASS LVL

MID LVL

TREBLE LVL

The GAIN parameter determines the gain value in the distortion stage.
The DISTORTION TYPE parameter allows you to select between four different distortion

types - Solid State, Pentode, Triode A and Triode B. The Solid State setting provides the
hardest clipping, while the Pentode type provides a softer clipping and the Triode A and B
types provide the softest clipping. Triode A emulates a triode tube operating in Class A,
with non-symmetrical clipping - and therefore more even harmonics produced. Triode B
emulates a pair of triode tubes operating in Class B, with symmetrical clipping. The
differences between these types are most pronounced at moderate gain settings of about
30dB or less, where Triode B produces the least amount of upper harmonics.

The post BASS LEVEL parameter adjusts the amount of low frequency information at the
output of each preset. This parameter is also accessible from the "Post EQ (Expert)"
function. (In the Post EQ function, the center frequency and bandwidth of this EQ section
are also adjustable.)

The post MID LEVEL parameter adjusts the amount of mid frequency information at the
output of each preset. This parameter is also accessible from the "Post EQ (Expert)"
function. (In the Post EQ function, the center frequency and bandwidth of this EQ section
are also adjustable.)

The post TREBLE LEVEL parameter adjusts the amount of high frequency information at
the output of each preset. This parameter is also accessible from the "Post EQ (Expert)"
function. (In the Post EQ function, the center frequency and bandwidth of this EQ section
are also adjustable.)

PRESENCE LVL

The post PRESENCE LEVEL parameter also adjusts the amount of high frequency
information at the output of each preset. This parameter is also accessible from the "Post
EQ (Expert)" function. (In the Post EQ configuration, the center frequency and bandwidth
of this EQ section are also adjustable.)

15

HUSH® Function

The HUSH® function is accessible in all presets - regardless of the configuration currently recalled.

HUSH is Hush Systems' patented single-ended noise reduction system. The HUSH system contained in the
Chameleon, though modeled after the latest analog HUSH design, is a fully digital implementation achieved
through Digital Signal Processing (DSP).

The low level expander of the HUSH system operates like an electronic volume control. The analog version of
the HUSH utilizes a voltage-controlled amplifier (VCA) circuit which can control the gain between the input and the
output from unity to 30, 40 or even 50dB of gain reduction. When the input signal is above the user preset thresh­old point, the VCA circuit remains at unity gain. (This means that the amplitude of the output signal will be equal to
that of the input signal.) As the input signal level drops below the user preset threshold point, downward expansion
begins. At this point the expander acts like an electronic volume control and gradually begins to decrease the
output signal level relative to the input signal level. As the input signal drops further below the threshold point,
downward expansion increases. A drop in the input level by 20dB would cause the output level to drop approxi­mately 40dB (i.e., 20dB of gain reduction). In the absence of any input signal, the expander will reduce the gain so
that the noise floor becomes inaudible.

16

The HUSH circuit is located after the A/D converter in the signal chain to reduce any noise generated from the
guitar and the A/D converter. This ensures a quiet input signal to the preamp section. Because the preamp section
of the Chameleon is digital, it is virtually noise-free (even in the high-gain mode). Therefore, a quiet input signal to
the preamp will result in a quiet output signal.

The PARAMETER SELECT control will allow you to access these Hush parameters:

HUSH I/O

HUSH THRESH

The HUSH I/O parameter simply determines whether the HUSH® circuit is active for the
current preset.

The HUSH THRESHOLD parameter determines the level at which downward expansion
begins. For example, if the HUSH THRESHOLD was set at -20dB and the input signal
dropped below -20dB, downward expansion would begin.

PRE EQ (EXPERT) Function

The PRE EQ (EXPERT) function is available in all presets—regardless of which configuration is currently
recalled.

This function allows you to shape the tone prior to the distortion stage. Considerable tone variations can be
achieved by modifying these pre-distort EQ parameters.

The PARAMETER SELECT control will allow you to access these PRE EQ parameters:

LF LEVEL

LF FREQ

MID LEVEL

MID FREQ

MID BW

The pre-LF (low frequency) LEVEL parameter allows you to cut or boost the low frequen­cies from -15dB to +6dB prior to the distortion stage. This EQ section is a shelving-type.

The pre-LF (low frequency) FREQUENCY parameter allows you to select a frequency
band with an upper frequency between 63Hz and 500Hz to be cut or boosted by the pre­LF LEVEL parameter.

The pre-MID LEVEL parameter allows you to cut or boost the mid-band frequencies from

-15dB to +12dB prior to the distortion stage.
The pre-MID FREQUENCY parameter allows you to select a mid-band center frequency

between 500Hz and 4KHz to be cut or boosted via the pre-MID LEVEL parameter.
The pre-MID BANDWIDTH parameter determines how wide or narrow the bandwidth of

the selected mid-band frequency is (in octaves). A small bandwidth only boosts or cuts
frequencies close to the center frequency, while a large bandwidth affects the level of
frequencies up to two octaves from the center frequency.

17

POST EQ (EXPERT) Function

The POST EQ (EXPERT) function is available in all presets - regardless of which configuration is currently
recalled.

This function allows you shape the tone after it has passed through the distortion stage. These post-distortion
EQ parameters have a more dramatic effect on the overall tone than the pre-distortion parameters.

The PARAMETER SELECT control will allow you to access these POST EQ parameters:

BASS LVL

BASS FREQ

BASS BW

MID LVL

MlD FREQ

MID BW

TREBLE LVL

TREBL FRQ

The post-BASS LEVEL parameter allows you to cut or boost the low frequencies by 15dB
after the distortion stage.

The post-BASS FREQUENCY parameter allows you to select a center frequency be­tween 63Hz and 500Hz to be cut or boosted by the post-BASS LEVEL parameter.

The post-BASS BANDWIDTH parameter determines (in octaves) the width of the se­lected bass band.

The post-MID LEVEL parameter allows you to cut or boost the mid-band frequencies by
15dB after the distortion stage.

The post-MID FREQUENCY parameter allows you to select a mid-band center frequency
between 250Hz and 2kHz to be cut or boosted via the post-MID LEVEL parameter.

The post-MID BANDWIDTH parameter determines (in octaves) the width of the selected
mid-band.

The post-TREBLE LEVEL parameter allows you to cut or boost the high-band frequen­cies by 15dB after the distortion stage.

The post-TREBLE FREQUENCY parameter allows you to select a high-band center
frequency between 1kHz and 8kHz to be cut or boosted via the post-TREBLE LEVEL
parameter.

TREBLE BW

PRESENCE LVL

PRES FREQ

PRES BW

The post-TREBLE BANDWIDTH parameter determines (in octaves) the width of the
selected high band.

The post-PRESENCE LEVEL parameter allows you to cut or boost another high-band
frequency by 15dB after the distortion stage.

The post-PRESENCE FREQUENCY parameter allows you to select a high-band center
frequency between 2kHz and 8kHz to be cut or boosted via the post-PRESENCE LEVEL
parameter.

The post-PRESENCE BANDWIDTH parameter determines (in octaves) the width of the
selected high band.

18

COMPRESSOR Function

The COMPRESSOR function is available only in configurations which display "L-GAIN" in the configuration
title.

This function allows you to compress the signal prior to the distortion stage. Compression is often used to
maintain an even level when using clean tones, and also to increase sustain when using distorted tones.

The PARAMETER SELECT control will allow you to access these COMPRESSOR parameters:

COMPRESSOR I/O

COMP THRESH

COMP ATTACK

COMP RELEASE

The COMPRESSOR IN/OUT parameter determines whether the compressor is active for
the current preset.

The COMPRESSOR THRESHOLD parameter determines the input level (in dB) at which
compression will begin. Lower settings of this parameter will result in more compression.

The COMPRESSOR ATTACK parameter determines the speed (in milliseconds) in which
the compressor will reach its maximum compression level after the input signal has
exceeded the threshold level (set by the COMPRESSOR THRESHOLD parameter).

The COMPRESSOR RELEASE parameter determines the speed in which compression
will cease after the input signal has dropped below the threshold level.

19

SPEAKER SIMULATOR Function

The SPEAKER SIMULATOR function is included in all presets and provides a realistic approximation of a
miked speaker cabinet for applications involving connecting the Chameleon directly to a mixing board, recording
system or other full range system.

When a preset is recalled which has the Speaker Simulator on for either the left channel or both channels, the
front panel SPKR SIM LED will light.

Note: The parameters provided in this function are operational only when the SPKR SIM parameter

under the GLOBAL FUNCTION is stored UNLOCK, LOCK L or LOCK B.

The PARAMETER SELECT control will allow you to access these SPEAKER SIMULATOR parameters:

SPKR SIM I/O

SPKR TYPE

MIC PLACEMENT

REACTANCE

The SPEAKER SIMULATOR parameter allows you to select whether the Speaker
Simulator is on for BOTH outputs, on for only the LEFT output or OFF.

The SPEAKER TYPE parameter determines the type of speaker to be simulated.
15",12",10", 8" and full range speakers are available.

The MIC PLACEMENT parameter simulates a microphone placed anywhere from the
center of the speaker cone out to the edge of the cone. Positive parameter values
simulate moving the microphone toward the center of the speaker, while negative values
move it to the edge.

The REACTANCE parameter simulates the characteristics of the interaction between a
tube amplifier and a guitar speaker cabinet. The higher the parameter value selected, the
more these characteristics will be apparent. Negative values of reactance can be used to
simulate an open-back cabinet.

20

WAH-WAH Function

The WAH-WAH function is available only in configurations which display "WAH" in the configuration title.

The Chameleon has an internal wah-wah which allows for an expression pedal to be used as a wah-wah pedal
through continuous Control changes. Use of this feature eliminates the need to run long audio cables out to a
conventional wah-wah pedal.

To use an expression pedal as a wah-wah pedal, connect it to a MIDI controller (such as a Rocktron MIDI
Mate™) and set the controller's MIDI channel to correspond with the Chameleon's receiving MIDI channel. Then set
the pedal's control number on the MIDI Mate to match the Wah Frequency parameter's control number on the
Chameleon. This control number is set on the Chameleon in the "CONTROLLER ASSIG" function. (See "Controller
Assignments" for more information on assigning control numbers.)

The PARAMETER SELECT control will allow you to access these WAH-WAH parameters:

WAH-WAH I/O

WAH FREQ

The WAH-WAH I/O parameter determines whether the wah-wah is active for the current
preset.

The WAH FREQUENCY parameter allows you to manually sweep the frequency range of
the wah-wah via the PARAMETER ADJUST control. Selecting a frequency for this
parameter and storing the WAH-WAH parameter IN allows you to use the wah-wah as a
fixed wah.

21

PHASER Function

The PHASER function is available only in configurations displaying "PHAS" in the configuration title.

Phase shifting involves splitting the input signal into two signals, then shifting the phase of different frequencies
of one signal and mixing it back with the original signal.

The PARAMETER SELECT control will allow you to access these PHASER parameters:

PHASER I/O

DEPTH

RATE

RESONANCE

STAGES

The PHASER IN/OUT parameter determines whether the Phaser is active for the current
preset.

The DEPTH parameter determines the modulation depth of the phase shift effect. Higher
parameter settings result in the sweep of the filtering effect occurring over a wider
frequency range.

The RATE parameter determines the speed at which the phase shifted signal is modu­lated.

The RESONANCE parameter adds feedback to the Phaser so that it has a more pro­nounced effect.

The STAGES parameter determines how many stages of phase shift are to be active. A
parameter setting of "4" produces a result similar to a vintage Phase 90, while a setting of
"6" emulates other phaser pedals.

22

FLANGER Function

The FLANGER function is available only in configurations displaying "FLAN" in the configuration title.

Flanging involves splitting the input signal into at least two individual delayed signals (Voice 1 and voice 2),
then modulating these delayed signals so that, when summed back with the direct signal, phase cancellations will
occur at some frequencies while peaks in the response will occur at others.

The PARAMETER SELECT control will allow you to access these FLANGER parameters:

LEVEL 1

PAN 1

DEPTH 1

RATE 1

LEVEL 2

PAN 2

DEPTH 2

RATE 2
REGEN

The LEVEL 1 parameter determines the volume of Voice 1 relative to Voice 2.

Tip: Keep the settings of these levels high and use the DIR/EFF mix

parameter in the Mixer function to control the overall amount of
flanged signal.

The PAN 1 parameter allows you to pan Voice 1 to the left or right channel.
The DEPTH 1 parameter adjusts the amount of modulation of Voice 1 . Lower DEPTH

settings produce more subtle effects, while higher settings will result in a more drastic
effect.

The RATE 1 parameter determines the speed at which Voice 1 is modulated.
The LEVEL 2 parameter determines the volume of Voice 2 relative to Voice 1.
The PAN 2 parameter allows you to pan Voice 2 to the left or right channel.
The DEPTH 2 parameter adjusts the amount of modulation of Voice 2. Lower DEPTH

settings produce more subtle effects, while higher settings will result in a more drastic
effect.

The RATE 2 parameter determines the speed at which Voice 2 is modulated.
The REGENERATION parameter determines how much of the delayed output signal is

fed back into the input. More regeneration produces a more pronounced "jet airplane"
type of effect.

23

TREMOLO Function

The TREMOLO function is available only in configurations displaying "TREM" in the configuration title.

The Tremolo effect continuously varies the volume of the signal.

The PARAMETER SELECT control will allow you to access these TREMOLO parameters:

TREMOLO I/O

LOCATION

DEPTH

RATE

SHAPE

The TREMOLO IN/OUT parameter determines whether the Tremolo is active or by­passed for the current preset.

The LOCATION parameter determines whether the Tremolo is located Pre-Reverb or
Post-Reverb. Most vintage amplifiers configured the Tremolo (or vibrato) Post-Reverb.

The DEPTH parameter determines the amount of modulation for the Tremolo signal.
Lower DEPTH settings produce more subtle tremolo effects, while higher settings will
result in a more extreme tremolo effect.

The RATE parameter determines the speed at which the tremolo signal modulates (or
increases and decreases in volume).

The SHAPE parameter determines the waveshape of the tremolo signal. Selecting a
different waveshape produces a different tremolo effect.

24

PITCH SHIFT Function

The PITCH function is available only in configurations displaying "PSHF" in the configuration title.

Pitch Shifting is used to change the pitch of the input signal to produce a harmony note based on the input
signal. The harmony voice may be of any fixed interval—up to one octave above the input signal to two octaves
below—and is selected in 20-cent increments. Fine adjustment can be made in one cent (1/ 100th semitone)
increments.

The PARAMETER SELECT control will allow you to access these PITCH SHlFT parameters:

PITCH SHIFT I/O

LEVEL

PAN

PITCH

FINE

SPEED

The PITCH SHIFT IN/OUT parameter determines whether the Pitch Shifter is active or
bypassed for the current preset.

The LEVEL parameter determines the volume of the pitch shifted signal. The DIR/EFF
MIX parameter in the Mixer function also affects this volume.

The PAN parameter allows you to pan the shifted signal to the left or right channel.
The PITCH parameter selects what harmony note the Chameleon will produce based on

the input note. The value displayed for this parameter represents the number of cents
that the signal will be shifted (adjustable in 20-cent increments). Each 100 cents (or five
20-cent steps) above or below "0" represents the number of half-steps the shifted signal
will be from the input signal.

This parameter is adjustable from "-2400" to "+1200", where "-2400" = two octaves below
the input signal, "0" = unison and "+1200' = one octave above the input signal. Refer to
the table below to determine the cent value for each fixed interval.

The FINE parameter allows for adjustment in 1-cent steps for fine adjustment of the
harmony note.

The SPEED parameter determines the amount of time delay used in the shifting process.
SLOW results in the longest delay and the highest quality shifted signal (especially at
larger amounts of pitch shift), FAST results in the least delay, but the lowest quality
shifted signal. This setting should only be used for slight amounts of pitch shift.

25

PITCH SHIFT INTERVALS

PARAMETER

VALUE

+1200
+1100
+1000

+900
+800
+700
+600
+500
+400
+300
+200
+100

-100

-200

-300

-400

-500

-600

-700

-800

-900

-1000

-1100

-1200

-1300

-1400

-1500

-1600

-1700

-1800

-1900

-2000

-2100

-2200

-2300

-2400

CORRESPONDING
INTERVAL

1 Octave
Major 7th
minor 7th
Major 6th
minor 6th
perfect 5th
diminished 5th
perfect 4th
Major 3rd
minor 3rd
Major 2nd
minor 2nd

0

unison
Major 7th
minor 7th
Major 6th
minor 6th
perfect 5th
diminished 5th
perfect 4th
Major 3rd
minor 3rd
Major 2nd
minor 2nd
1 octave
1 octave plus a Major 7th
1 octave plus a minor 7th
1 octave plus a Major 6th
1 octave plus a minor 6th
1 octave plus a perfect 5th
1 octave plus a diminished 5th
1 octave plus a perfect 4th
1 octave plus a Major 3rd
1 octave plus a minor 3rd
1 octave plus a Major 2nd
1 octave plus a minor 2nd
2 octaves

Voices above the input signal

Equal to the input signal

Voices below the input signal

26

NOTE: There are 5 steps of the parameter adjust control between each of the intervals shown above (each step equals 20

cents). This allows for smooth pitch change when an expression controller (such as a volume pedal used with a
Rocktron All Access® or MIDI Mate™ foot controller) is assigned to the PITCH parameter to change the pitch by
remote means.

CHORUS Function

The CHORUS function is available only in configurations displaying "CRS" in the configuration title.

The Chorus effect in the Chameleon is produced by using two delayed signals (Voice 1 and Voice 2), detuning
these delayed signals (slightly changing their pitch), then modulating the detune effect so that the amount of pitch
detune is constantly varying. Using different detune amounts, modulation rates, modulation depths and pan
settings for each delayed signal will produce a greater perceived spaciousness.

The PARAMETER SELECT control will allow you to access these CHORUS parameters:

CHORUS I/O

LEVEL 1

PAN 1

DEPTH 1

RATE 1

DELAY 1

LEVEL 2

PAN 2

The CHORUS I/O parameter determines whether the Chorus is active or bypassed for
the current preset.

The LEVEL 1 parameter determines the volume of Voice 1 in relation to Voice 2. The
DIR/EFF MIX parameter in the Mixer function also determines the Chorus level.

The PAN 1 parameter allows you to pan Voice 1 to the left or right channel.
The DEPTH 1 parameter adjusts the amount of modulation of the Voice 1 signal. A lower

depth setting will produce a more subtle detune effect, while a higher setting will produce
a more extreme detuning of Voice 1 .

The RATE 1 parameter determines the sweep speed (or the speed at which Voice 1 is
modulated). Lower parameter settings will result in slower speeds, while higher settings
will result in faster speeds.

The DELAY 1 parameter allows you to select the minimum delay time (in milliseconds)
for Voice 1. This delayed signal (along with Voice 2) is detuned and modulated to pro­duce the chorus effect. Using shorter delay times will result in a tighter sounding cho­rused signal, while longer delay times will produce a larger ambient effect.

The LEVEL 2 parameter determines the volume of Voice 2 in relation to Voice 1 .
The PAN 2 parameter allows you to pan Voice 2 to the left or right channel.

DEPTH 2

RATE 2

DELAY2

The DEPTH 2 parameter adjusts the amount of modulation of the Voice 2 signal. A lower
depth setting will produce a more subtle detune effect, while a higher setting will produce
a more extreme detuning of Voice 2.

The RATE 2 parameter determines the sweep speed (or the speed at which Voice 2 is
modulated). Lower parameter settings will result in slower speeds, while higher settings
will result in faster speeds.

The DELAY 2 parameter allows you to select the minimum delay time (in milliseconds)
for Voice 2. It is this delayed signal (along with Voice1) that is detuned and modulated to
produce the chorus effect Using shorter delay times will result in a tighter sounding
chorused signal, while longer delay times will produce a larger ambient effect.

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