Alesis QuadraSynth Reference Manual
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Alesis QuadraSynth Reference Manual

Alesis quadrasynth audio-keyboard: reference manual
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ALESIS
QuadraSynth
S4 QuadraSynth
Reference Manual

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Summary of Contents for Alesis QuadraSynth

  • Page 1 ALESIS QuadraSynth S4 QuadraSynth Reference Manual...

  • Page 2: How To Use This Manual

    QuadraSynth, using all capital letters and in brackets (Example: [PROGRAM] button, MIDI [¬] and [ ®] buttons, Quad Knob [1], etc.). When text from the QuadraSynthÕs display is quoted, it is indicated by a set of quotation marks (Example: ÒEDITING: SOUND 4Ó) .
  • Page 3 QuadraSynth Reference Manual...

  • Page 4: Table Of Contents

    Basic MIDI Hookup ...21 Typical Application 1: MIDI Keyboard/Master Controller for Live Use...22 Using the S4 in Live Performance...22 Typical Application 2: Using the QuadraSynth with an External Sequencer ...23 About the Keyboard Mode ...24 Using the S4 with a Sequencer ...24 Pedal and Footswitch Hookup ...24...
  • Page 5 Effect ...44 Naming a Mix ...44 Polyphony in Mix Mode...45 Using the QuadraSynth as a Master Keyboard ...45 Setting MIDI Out Channels for Mix (QuadraSynth Keyboard only) ...45 6: Editing Programs...47 Overview ...47 The ÒNormalizedÓ Synth Voice...47 How the QuadraSynth Generates Sound ...48 Program Sound Layers...48...
  • Page 6 8: Global Settings...107 Editing Global Parameters ...107 LCD Contrast ...107 Master Pitch and Master Tuning ...107 Keyboard Sensitivity ...(QuadraSynth only) ...108 Keyboard Curve ...(QuadraSynth only) ...108 Keyboard Transpose ...(QuadraSynth only) ...108 Keyboard Mode ...(QuadraSynth only) ...108 Mix Group Channel ...(S4 Sound Module only) ...109 Controller A Ñ...
  • Page 7 MIDI Hardware ...119 MIDI Message Basics ...120 Channel Messages: Mode Messages ...120 Channel Messages: Voice Messages ...120 System Common Messages ...122 MIDI Implementation Chart ...123 APPENDIX C: Parameters Index ...124 Program Parameters ...124 Mix Parameters ...126 INDEX ...127 QuadraSynth Reference Manual...

  • Page 8: 1: Setting Up

    Alesis, please take the time to do so now. AC Power Hookup The QuadraSynth works with the voltage of the country it is shipped to (either 110 or 220V, 50 or 60 Hz), and comes with a line cord or power supply suitable for the destination to which the keyboard is shipped.

  • Page 9: Line Conditioners And Protectors

    Setting Up Do not operate any electrical equipment with ungrounded outlets. Plugging the QuadraSynth into an ungrounded outlet, or ÒliftingÓ the unit off ground with a three-to-two wire adapter, can create a hazardous condition. Alesis cannot be responsible for problems caused by using the QuadraSynth or any associated equipment with improper AC wiring.

  • Page 10: About Audio Cables

    These should be low-capacitance shielded cables with a stranded (not solid) internal conductor and a low-resistance shield. Although quality cables cost more, they do make a difference. Route cables to the QuadraSynth correctly by observing the following precautions: ¥...
  • Page 11 Setting Up QuadraSynth Reference Manual...

  • Page 12: 2: Your First Session With The Quadrasynth

    Turn on the [ON/OFF] (power) switch on the rear panel of the QuadraSynth. Upon power-up, the QuadraSynth will display the last selected Program or Mix. If this Program/Mix has been edited, the display will indicate this by showing the word ÒEDITEDÓ...

  • Page 13: Adjusting The Display Contrast

    The upper-right display will read ÒPlaying Demo. Press MIX to stop.Ó Press [MIX] to stop the demo. The demo was composed specially for the QuadraSynth by Stephen Kay. There will be no MIDI OUT messages during the demo, and the keyboard will be disabled.

  • Page 14: Playing The Quadrasynth

    Playing the QuadraSynth The QuadraSynth is shipped from the factory with a full bank of 128 Preset Programs (sounds) and 128 User Programs. Additionally, there are 100 Preset Mixes and 100 User Mixes, 128 Preset Effects Patches, and 128 User Effects Patches.

  • Page 15: Auditioning Internal Programs

    [5] for Program 5; press [0] then [1] then [3] for Program 13. Only begin with [1] if you are selecting a Program from 100 Ñ 127. If you start entering a number and change your mind, wait a few seconds and the QuadraSynth will revert to the previous Program number.
  • Page 16 Your First Session with the QuadraSynth QuadraSynth Reference Manual...

  • Page 17: Selecting The Midi Channel

    Your First Session with the QuadraSynth Selecting the MIDI Channel While in Program Mode, the QuadraSynth can transmit and receive information on any single MIDI channel of the 16 available channels. The currently selected channel appears at the top left of the display.

  • Page 18: Auditioning Mix Mode

    There are many different ways to program a Mix. For more about Mix Mode, refer to Chapter 5. For more about connecting the QuadraSynth to a MIDI sequencer, see Chapter 3. Press the [MIX] button.

  • Page 19: Editing A Mix

    Your First Session with the QuadraSynth Editing a Mix In this section, we will assign Programs to and set volume levels for the 16 MIDI channels in a Mix, for playing back tracks from a MIDI sequencer. However, there is much more about a Mix that may be edited.

  • Page 20: Auditioning Effects

    Changes to Program parameters are temporary and will be lost if another Program is selected. To make changes permanent, you must store the Program into the User bank. Refer to Chapter 4 for information about storing changes. QuadraSynth Reference Manual Your First Session with the QuadraSynth "Ch EFFECT NUMBER...

  • Page 21: Setting The Effects Level

    Each of these sounds has its own effects , as well as effects bus assignment. Many of the Programs in the QuadraSynth use only one or two sound layers, while others may use all four sounds. You can adjust the effect send amount for each sound independently, or you can view/edit all four sounds simultaneously.
  • Page 22 Your First Session with the QuadraSynth QuadraSynth Reference Manual...

  • Page 24: 3: Connections

    MIDI OUT to the QuadraSynthÕs MIDI MIDI The MIDI jack carries a replica (or echo) of the signal appearing at the QuadraSynthÕs MIDI , allowing you to trigger other devices from the same controller which is feeding the QuadraSynth.

  • Page 25: Typical Application 1: Midi Keyboard/Master Controller For Live Use

    16 MIDI channels, each with its own keyboard range (for more information on Program mode and Mix mode, see Chapter 4). When using the QuadraSynth as a master keyboard to play other MIDI devices, be sure the Keyboard Mode is set to ÒFRM MIX.Ó The Keyboard Mode parameter is found on Page 2 of Global mode (for more information, see Chapter 8).

  • Page 26: Typical Application 2: Using The Quadrasynth With An External Sequencer

    Example: If the sequencer transmits a piano part over channel 1, a bass part over channel 2, and a drum part over channel 10, you could set up a QuadraSynth Mix so that a piano sound plays only the MIDI data assigned to channel 1, a bass sound plays only the MIDI data assigned to channel 2, and drums play only the MIDI data assigned to channel 10.

  • Page 27: About The Keyboard Mode

    QuadraSynthÕs MIDI IN, which is the same as the sequencerÕs MIDI OUT. About the Keyboard Mode In a Mix, the QuadraSynthÕs keyboard may be set up in several ways using the Keyboard Mode parameter found on Page 2 of Global mode. You need to determine which way is best for your application.

  • Page 28: Using The S4 With A Sequencer

    In OUT 1 Ñ OUT 16 mode, you will not hear the QuadraSynth unless your sequencer echoes the MIDI data back to the QuadraSynthÕs MIDI IN. This is a way of verifying that the sequencer is set to receive properly. Depending on the capabilities of your sequencer, it may Òauto-channelizeÓ...

  • Page 29: Digital Audio/Optical Hookup

    ADAT or AI-1 DIGITAL IN. To test the cable and QuadraSynth digital output, plug one cable end into the QuadraSynth. The other end should emit a soft red light (it is not dangerous to look directly at this light).
  • Page 30 Connections QuadraSynth Reference Manual...

  • Page 32: 4: Overview

    A Mix consists of up to 16 Programs, each assigned to a specific MIDI channel and one Effect Patch. The QuadraSynth has 100 User Mixes plus 100 Preset mixes. This is extremely useful for multitimbral setups where the QuadraSynth plays back different sounds on different MIDI channels.

  • Page 33: Modes

    16 channels of MIDI data at once. Therefore, much thicker and richly textured sounds can be created. In Mix mode, the QuadraSynth can be used in a wide range of applications. It can be used for live performance, in which sounds are layered or assigned to sections of the keyboard.

  • Page 34: Mix Edit Mode

    Store mode is used for storing changes of Programs, Mixes and/or Effects into the User memory bank. It is also used for transmitting the QuadraSynthÕs parameters over MIDI for data storage purposes, and for loading banks to or from a QuadraCard PCMCIA memory card accessory.

  • Page 35: The User Interface: Display, Functions, Pages, And Parameters

    The User Interface: Display, Functions, Pages, and Parameters The key to the QuadraSynth user interface is the combination of the Display and four Quad Knobs/Buttons [1] Ñ [4] located toward the right of the front panel. The Display constantly informs you of the QuadraSynthÕs status.

  • Page 36: Midi Buttons

    The MIDI [¬] and [ ®] buttons serve two purposes. In Program mode, they select the basic MIDI channel the QuadraSynth will receive and transmit MIDI messages on. In Mix mode, they are used to select one of the 16 Programs for viewing and editing.

  • Page 37: Editing Program Parameters

    Editing Program Parameters Here is an example of how to use the QuadraSynthÕs editing features to change Program parameters. Feel free to make changes and twist dials; these will not be made permanent unless you store the Program (described later). Simply selecting another Program cancels the results of any edits youÕve made unless youÕve stored...

  • Page 38: Edit 4 And Edit 1 Modes

    The status line in the display will indicate ÒSOUND 1 2 3 4.Ó In Edit 4 mode, the four Quad Knobs represents the four sound layers of a Program. The currently selected parameterÕs name will appear at the top right of the display, QuadraSynth Reference Manual Overview...

  • Page 39: Resetting A Parameter Value

    While Compare mode is selected, you can move around to view the various parameters, but you will not be able to edit anything. This is because you are seeing what is in memory, not what is in the edit buffer. QuadraSynth Reference Manual...

  • Page 40: Preset Memory And User Memory

    SRAM PCMCIA card, or (via MIDI System Exclusive) into a data storage device like the Alesis DataDisk or a MIDI sequencer. See Chapter 9 for more information on external storage operations.

  • Page 41: Store A Program

    Storing a Mix only stores the Mix parameters, not the individual Programs or Effect Patch used in the Mix. If you have edited any of the Programs in the Mix or the Effects Patch, you must store them separately. QuadraSynth Reference Manual...

  • Page 42: To Audition Programs Before Storing

    The top right of the display will read ÒSTORE PRG AT XXX?Ó where XXX is a User Program number from 000Ñ127. Use Quad Knob [1] to enter the Program number you noted in step 6. Press [STORE] again. The Program is now stored. QuadraSynth Reference Manual Overview...
  • Page 43 Press [MIX], then [SELECT] to access Mix Edit mode. Use the MIDI [¬] and [ ®] buttons to select the MIDI channel you want, and use the VALUE [-] and [¯] buttons or Quad Knob [1] to select the Program number. QuadraSynth Reference Manual...

  • Page 44: 5: Mix Mode

    What Mix Mode Does Mix Mode is one of the most powerful features of the QuadraSynth. While in Program Mode you can play only one Program at a time, in Mix Mode you can play up to 16 Programs at once, either from the keyboard (as layers or splits) or from an external sequencer (via 16 MIDI channels) or a combination of both.

  • Page 45: Understanding The Edit Buffers

    Effects patch. If you select another Mix before storing, your changes will be lost. MIDI Output Sends 1—4 Effects Effects Effects Processor Level Buss (reverb, delay, chorus, etc.) QuadraSynth Reference Manual MIDI Output Main L Aux L Main R Aux R...

  • Page 46: Program Assign For Each Midi Channel

    OFF, the channel will not be sent to either set of outputs (but can still feed an effect bus). Pitch The function lets you transpose a channelÕs Program in either semitone or octave increments. By using both parameters together, you have a total transposition range of ±3 octaves. QuadraSynth Reference Manual Mix Mode...

  • Page 47: Setting The Range And Midi

    Look at the MIDI MONITOR section of the display. A thick line will appear above any active MIDI channels as you play notes or send notes to the QuadraSynth from a sequencer on those channels.

  • Page 48: Effects In Mix Mode

    MIDI Out (On or Off) This determines whether or not the selected channel will transmit MIDI messages. This has no effect on the S4 module; it only applies to the QuadraSynth keyboard. Keyboard (On or Off) (Keyboard Model only) This determines whether or not the selected channel will respond to the , pitch-bend and mod wheels, foot pedals and sustain pedal of the QuadraSynth itself.

  • Page 49: Effect

    The function allows you to change the name of the . The Mix name can be up to 10 characters long. Use the PAGE [¬] and [ ®] buttons to position the cursor. Quad Knob [1] selects the character. Here is a chart of available characters: " ¥ % & ’ < > QuadraSynth Reference Manual ® ¬...

  • Page 50: Polyphony In Mix Mode

    Global Mode (QuadraSynth Keyboard only) The QuadraSynth offers a wide variety of ways to set the MIDI output. It is very easy in Program Mode; you just use the MIDI [¬] and [ ®] buttons to set the MIDI channel for the whole instrument. But when using the QuadraSynth in Mix Mode, you need to be able to transmit on several MIDI channels at once, and to temporarily isolate certain channels within a Mix.
  • Page 51 Mix Mode CH SOLO. In this mode, the only sounds coming from the QuadraSynth, and the only MIDI Out messages, will come from the layer or range of the underlined MIDI channel in the display. This allows you to isolate individual channels in a Mix. So, if you play in a range of the keyboard that is active on MIDI CH 1, and 1 is underlined, you'll hear it.

  • Page 52: 6: Editing Programs

    Also, become familiar with the signal and modulation flow within the QuadraSynth (as shown in the various block diagrams included in this manual) so that you can understand the many ways in which you can process a signal as it works its way from oscillator to output.

  • Page 53: How The Quadrasynth Generates Sound

    You can take a "snapshot" of the QuadraSynthÕs parameters and save this in memory as a program. The QuadraSynth comes with 128 factory preset programs, and 128 user-editable programs.

  • Page 54: Quadrasynth Signal Flow

    (Pitch LFO, Filter LFO, Amp Envelope) which affect how each will function in the Program. You can layer these sounds together, or divide them into regions of the keyboard, or a combination of these things. The following diagram illustrates the signal flow within each QuadraSynth Program. MIDI Sound 1...

  • Page 55: Voice

    Editing Programs Note that the waveforms in the QuadraSynth are different from those found in samplers or many sample-playback units. Because the QuadraSynth has its own filter module and amplitude module for each voice, the pure waveforms are relatively bright--as bright as the original instrument can be--and have a constant sustaining amplitude, like an organ.

  • Page 56: About Modulation

    The QuadraSynth lets you assign several modulation sources to one modulation ÒtargetÓ parameter, which allows for interaction between two modulation signals.

  • Page 57: About Signal Processing

    NOTE ON About Signal Processing The signal processing section of the QuadraSynth provides the same kind of power as the Alesis QuadraVerb. It is a complete digital signal processing unit with four input buses, simultaneous multiple effects, and flexible signal routing.
  • Page 58 When using Edit 4 mode, sounds using Drum Mode will be unavailable for editing; only sounds not in Drum Mode will be editable in the bargraph display. If a sound is in Drum mode, the display will show ÒdrmX,Ó whereby X is the sound number (1Ñ4). QuadraSynth Reference Manual Voice Filter...

  • Page 59: Program Edit Functions

    Editing Programs If you enable Drum Mode for a sound while in Edit 4 mode, the QuadraSynth will automatically switch to Edit 1 mode for that layer. Program Edit Functions Assign Voice To edit a Program you must select Program Edit mode, Press [SELECT] from Program Mode.

  • Page 60: Level

    To send a sound to an individual output, use Output in conjunction with Pan. Example: Panning a sound full left and selecting the Aux outputs means that the sound will appear at only the left Aux output. QuadraSynth Reference Manual Editing Programs...

  • Page 61: Effect Level

    Editing Programs Effect Level The QuadraSynth isnÕt just a synthesizer; it also has a built-in effects system and mixer, with four effect buses and sends. This section lets you feed the sound to one of the effect buses for processing. For more on effect buses, see Chapter 6.

  • Page 62: Pitch

    The higher the number (negative or positive), the greater the effect. Pitch Envelope parameters (such as attack and decay time) are programmed within the PENV Function (see page 74). QuadraSynth Reference Manual Editing Programs...
  • Page 63 Use 1-PITCH mode when you want a program sound layer to play a single pitch throughout the entire keyboard range. In 1-PITCH mode, the QuadraSynth will play the sample used for note C3 for all notes in the range. 1-PITCH mode is often...

  • Page 64: Filter

    Tip: Many acoustic instruments, such as acoustic guitars, sound brighter when you play them more forcefully. Adding a little positive velocity control over the filter can simulate more realistic acoustic sounds. Filter (Page 2) Depth (-99 to +99) QuadraSynth Reference Manual Editing Programs...
  • Page 65 The higher the number (negative or positive), the greater the effect. Filter Envelope parameters (such as attack and decay time) are programmed within the FENV Function (see page 76). QuadraSynth Reference Manual...
  • Page 66 The higher the number (either positive or negative), the greater the effect for a given amount of aftertouch. Tip: Use aftertouch to ÒswellÓ the amplitude of brass and horn parts. QuadraSynth Reference Manual INVERTED MAXIMUM VELOCITY...

  • Page 67: Amp

    Quad Switch [2] and tapping the key on the keyboard you want to set as the highest note in the range. If the lower limit is set above the high limit, there will be no sound from this program layer. QuadraSynth Keyboard Range Program Sound Range QuadraSynth Reference Manual...
  • Page 68 64 voices in no time. By adjusting the Sound Overlap to a lower value, you decrease the number of voices used by each new note, and thereby ensure there are voices available to play other sounds, if necessary. QuadraSynth Reference Manual...

  • Page 69: Mod

    Editing Programs About General Purpose Although there are several dedicated modulators in the QuadraSynth (e.g., the pitch can always be modulated by the pitch LFO and pitch envelope), sophisticated synthesizer programming demands the ability to use as many modulation sources as possible to modulate as many modulation destinations as desired.
  • Page 70 ¥Ê Polyphonic Pressure This is similar to aftertouch, but each key can respond to individual pressure messages. Although the QuadraSynth keyboard does not generate poly pressure, the sound generators can respond to poly pressure signals entering via the MIDI In.
  • Page 71 Editing Programs ¥Ê MIDI continuous controllers (A, B, C, D) Four incoming MIDI controllers can be recognized by the QuadraSynth and used as modulation sources. These controllers are assigned as A, B, C and D within Global Mode (see Chapter 8).

  • Page 72: Pitch Lfo

    LFO. However, the LFO Trigger parameter determines whether or not they should be in sync, and whether or not they can be retriggered independent from one another. QuadraSynth Reference Manual TRIANGLE SQUARE...
  • Page 73 This is the modulation amount of Aftertouch over the Pitch LFOÕs Level. A positive value raises the level as more Aftertouch is applied. A negative value will lower the amount of PLFO level as more Aftertouch is applied. QuadraSynth Reference Manual...

  • Page 74: Filter Lfo

    Mod Wheel will add more tremolo. On the other hand, if the Mod Wheel parameter is set to -10, raising the Mod Wheel to the top will cancel out all tremolo. QuadraSynth Reference Manual...

  • Page 75: Amp Lfo

    The Trigger parameter determines how the LFO should be triggered, or started. There are four possible settings: Mono, Poly, Key Mono and Key Poly. A description of these settings is found in the Trigger section of the PLFO description on page 70. QuadraSynth Reference Manual...

  • Page 76: Pitch Envelope

    Setting the Attack to 0 will make the pitch go to maximum immediately on hitting the key (if the Delay is also set to 0 in PENV Page 2--see below); a setting of 99 will result in a much slower attack, taking many seconds before the envelope gets to maximum. QuadraSynth Reference Manual...
  • Page 77 When set to Reset-Freerun, the envelope will start at the beginning whenever a new note is played and will complete its entire cycle, even if the note is released in the middle. QuadraSynth Reference Manual...

  • Page 78: Filter Envelope

    MOD function. Also note that the Filter Envelope may have no effect if some other modulation source, or the basic setting of the filter, has already pushed the filter cutoff frequency to its maximum. QuadraSynth Reference Manual...
  • Page 79 0. If this is set to 99, the envelope will remain at the Sustain level until the note is released. This is the normal setting for organ-type sounds. When set to 0, the envelopeÕs level will immediately jump down to 0 upon reaching the sustain stage. QuadraSynth Reference Manual...
  • Page 80 This determines how keyboard dynamics will affect the envelope level. When set to 99, note velocity controls the envelopeÕs output; notes played hard will deliver a higher envelope output than notes played soft. When set to 0, note velocity will have no effect on the envelopeÕs output level. QuadraSynth Reference Manual...

  • Page 81: Amp Envelope

    When the Delay is set to 0, the envelope attacks right away, without any delay. Play some notes while turning up the delay and see that the time between playing the note and hearing the effect of the Pitch Envelope gets progressively longer as the Delay control is turned up. QuadraSynth Reference Manual...
  • Page 82 When the Sustain Pedal parameter is turned off, the Sustain Pedal will have no effect on the envelope. Level (00 to 99) This is the overall output level of the envelope. QuadraSynth Reference Manual...

  • Page 83: Tracking Generator

    However, the Tracking Generator interpolates between steps; this is sort of like playing Òconnect the dots.Ó In other words, the Tracking Generator does not step directly from one point to the next, but ramps from point to point. LINEAR NON-LINEAR QuadraSynth Reference Manual...

  • Page 84: Name

    Program Edit mode is to hold the corresponding Quad Button [1]Ñ[4] and press VALUE [¯] to disable or VALUE [-] to enable. Example: Holding Quad Button [1] and pressing VALUE [¯] will disable sound 1. QuadraSynth Reference Manual ¥ Velocity ¥...

  • Page 85: Programming Drum Sounds

    Drum Mode will be editable in the bargraph display. If a sound is in Drum mode, the display will show ÒdrmX,Ó whereby X is the sound number (1Ñ4). If you enable Drum Mode for a sound while in Edit 4 mode, the QuadraSynth will automatically switch to Edit 1 mode for that layer.

  • Page 86: Effects Level

    (in a three-way velocity split, drum 1 would use curve Ò1 of 3,Ó drum 2 would use curve Ò2 of 3Ó while drum 3 would use Ò3 of 3Ó). For more details about the 13 velocity curves, see the illustration on page 64. QuadraSynth Reference Manual...

  • Page 87: Amp Envelope

    Mute Group. The additional Mute Groups can be used by other sounds that you wish to cut-off each other, but do not want to interfere with the Hi Hat sounds. Use Quad Knob [4] to select the drum (1Ñ10) you wish to edit. QuadraSynth Reference Manual...

  • Page 88: Copying Sounds

    While holding down both Quad Buttons [1] and [4], turn on the power. The QuadraSynth will come on showing Program 00 and Effect 00, with the EDITED flags showing in the display. These are the edit buffers, set to the default settings.
  • Page 89 Editing Programs QuadraSynth Reference Manual...

  • Page 90: 7: Editing Effects

    DITING About Signal Processing The built-in effects processor of the QuadraSynth is similar to that of the Alesis QuadraVerb, capable of generating multiple, fully digital effects simultaneously. The QuadraSynth effects processor has four inputs, or effect sends. You might think of these as the typical post-fader sends found on a mixing console.

  • Page 91: Selecting An Effects Patch

    Programs and Mixes that use the same Effects Patch. "Ch EFFECT NUMBER PRESET LEVEL EFFECT–LEVEL RANGE EFFECT NAME PENV FENV AENV TRACK MISC. "Ch EFFECT NUMBER TYPE LINK CHAN PRESET LEVEL EFFECT–LEVEL RANGE EFFECT NAME QuadraSynth Reference Manual ® ® Rev1" TYPE ® ® Rev1"...

  • Page 92: Storing Effects Patches

    Ò(NOT IN THIS CONFIG).Ó This is because a Pitch module is available on sends 1, 2 and 3 in Configuration #1, but not on send 4Ñas you can see in the chart on page 90. Storing Effects Patches QuadraSynth Reference Manual Stereo Chorus EFFECT...

  • Page 93: Configurations

    Quad Knob [1] is used to select the Configuration. As you scroll through the various Configurations, each oneÕs name will appear in the upper right section of the display. STORE EFX AT 000? EFFECT NUMBER PRESET EFFECT NAME DELAY 4-SENDS, 1 REVERB EFFECT CONFIGURATION PRESET EFFECT NAME DELAY (Press STORE) QuadraSynth Reference Manual...
  • Page 94 Pitch Detune Resonator Pitch 3 Delay 3 Mono chorus Mono delay Mono flange Resonator Delay 4 Mono delay Reverb 1 QuadraSynth Reference Manual BAL. DELAY 1 DELAY 1 BAL. DELAY 2 DELAY 2 BAL. DELAY 3 DELAY 3 DELAY 4...
  • Page 95 Delay 1 and Reverb 1. Think of the Mix function in the QuadraSynth's effects section as being similar to the effect return control on a mixing console. For example, if Effect Send 1's Mix Reverb Output parameter is set to 0, you won't be able to hear reverb regardless of how much input you feed it from any of the effect buses.
  • Page 96 FX SEND 2 FX SEND 3 FX SEND 4 Delay 1 Pitch 1 Mono delay Mono chorus Stereo chorus Pitch 3 Mono chorus QuadraSynth Reference Manual MIX 1 PITCH REVERB PITCH 1 REVERB 1 REVERB 2 PITCH REVERB PITCH 3...
  • Page 97 4 has no effects of its own, but can be routed to the same Reverb effect as send 3. Effect send 1Õs Delay, Pitch, and Reverb can feed the Mix output directly. Unlike the first configuration, however, Pitch 3 can be routed to the Mix only after passing through Reverb 3. QuadraSynth Reference Manual...
  • Page 98 Pitch Detune Resonator Pitch 3 Delay 3 Mono chorus Mono delay Mono flange Resonator Delay 4 Mono delay Reverb 1 QuadraSynth Reference Manual DELAY 1 DELAY 1 BAL. DELAY 2 DELAY 2 BAL. DELAY 3 DELAY 3 DELAY 4 DELAY 4...
  • Page 99 Delay effect before going to the single stereo Reverb effect. Sends 2 and 3 have Pitch modules preceding Delay modules, then routed to Reverb 1. Send 4 has only a Mono Delay effect, which may also be routed to the Reverb. QuadraSynth Reference Manual...

  • Page 100: Reverb

    This makes it possible to have the signal from the Pitch or Delay sections, or the direct effect send in any combination or amount. QuadraSynth Reference Manual INPUT1: DELAY OUT EFFECT...
  • Page 101 Quad Knob [3] controls the overall input level to the Reverb. CHORUS IN LEV: 00 EFFECT CHORUS-IN PRESET EFFECT NAME DELAY BAL: SEND4<00>DEL EFFECT BALANCE PRESET EFFECT NAME DELAY LEVEL QuadraSynth Reference Manual...

  • Page 102: Reverb Type

    Pre-Delay Time and Pre-Delay Mix. Reverb Type The QuadraSynth has seven different reverb types, all stereo, each of which simulates a different space or produce a different ambient effect. Use Quad Knob [1] to select one. The different Reverb types are: Plate 1 &...
  • Page 103 This allows you to simulate different surfaces of a room or hall, with softer surfaces absorbing more high frequencies and smaller rooms having faster low frequency decay. If the selected Reverb type is Gate, the Low Decay parameter is unavailable. QuadraSynth Reference Manual...
  • Page 104 First Reflection seemingly causing an additional Òhit.Ó DENSITY OF 0 TIME 1st reflection further apart. If the select Reverb type is Large, the Density parameter is unavailable. QuadraSynth Reference Manual Editing Effects DIFFUSION OF 99 TIME Reflections closer together. DENSITY OF 99 TIME 1st reflection closer together.

  • Page 105: Delay

    The Delay function is used to edit Delay parameters. Delay (Page 1) The QuadraSynthÕs effects processor has three different Delay types available. Note: Some delay modules only feature a mono Delay, and therefore the Delay Type parameter will be unavailable. Instead the parameters normally found on page 2 of the Delay function are shown in page 1, and there are no other pages (please refer to next section for a description of those parameters).

  • Page 106: Pitch

    Detuning section for both left and right channels. When the left channel is detuned sharp, the right is detuned flat, and vice versa. Once again, this causes the effect to become more pronounced and dramatic. QuadraSynth Reference Manual...
  • Page 107 Once again, this causes the effect to become more pronounced and dramatic. DRY SIGNAL FEEDBACK DETUNE DELAY DETUNE FEEDBACK DRY SIGNAL DELAY FEEDBACK DRY SIGNAL QuadraSynth Reference Manual LEFT CHORUSED OUTPUT RIGHT CHORUSED OUTPUT FLANGED OUTPUT...
  • Page 108 Mono or Stereo Chorus or Flange are selected. The Waveform Shape of the LFO can be changed from a sine waveform, which provides a smoother, more even sound, to a square or triangle waveform, which makes the Chorus or flange effect more pronounced. QuadraSynth Reference Manual DRY SIGNAL FEEDBACK DELAY...

  • Page 109: Mod

    Resonator Decay. The Mod function lets you control various effects parameters from the various controls on the QuadraSynth (keyboard, after-touch, pitch-bender, etc.) or from the MIDI input. This is extremely useful when dynamic or real-time control is required in a live playing situation. It is possible to control up to 2 parameters simultaneously.

  • Page 110: Name

    [¬] and [ ®] buttons to move the cursor through each character in the current name. Use Quad Knob [1] to change the selected character. Here is a chart of available characters: " ¥ QuadraSynth Reference Manual ¥ Mod Wheel ¥ Sustain Pedal ¥...

  • Page 111: Mix

    Pitch Level Adjusting this value will cause the Pitch Output Level to increase or decrease. The Pitch Output level is the level for the Pitch Section of the QuadraSynthÕs effects processor to the Main outputs, and should be set as desired.

  • Page 112: 8: Global Settings

    Master Pitch and Master Tuning In Page 1 of Global Edit mode, Quad Knob [3] adjusts the QuadraSynthÕs overall pitch (-12 to +12/up or down an octave). Adjust this parameter when you wish to globally transpose all sounds.

  • Page 113: Keyboard Sensitivity

    +12/up or down 1 octave). This determines the note number that the keyboard will transmit to the QuadraSynthÕs sounds and to MIDI Out. If you are using a MIDI sequencer, use this function when you wish to record notes outside of the keyboardÕs normal note range (note numbers 28Ñ103).

  • Page 114: Mix Group Channel

    The Mix Group Channel parameter is the only parameter that appears in Global Edit Page 2 if youÕre using an S4 sound module; it is not found on the QuadraSynth keyboard version. Quad Knob [2] controls which MIDI channel the ÒkeyboardÓ will be recognized on (Off, 1Ñ16).

  • Page 115: Midi Program Select

    48 kHz clock signal from the BRC in order to maintain perfect sync with the ADAT system. This requires that you connect a BNC-to-BNC cable between the BRCÕs 48 kHz Clock Out to the QuadraSynthÕs 48 kHz Clock In. When you are ready QuadraSynth Reference Manual...
  • Page 116 Global Settings to record onto ADAT from the QuadraSynth, be sure to turn on the 48 kHz Clock Input function. For more on connecting the BNC-to-BNC cable, see page 25. QuadraSynth Reference Manual...

  • Page 118: 9: Midi Transfer And Storage Operations

    ROM (READ-ONLY) bank, it will be in bank 1; this means you cannot save anything into bank 1. Insert the card into the sound card slot on the back panel of the QuadraSynth or front panel of the S4.

  • Page 119: Saving Programs Via Midi Sys Ex

    As an alternative to storing data to a card, the QuadraSynth lets you transmit internal data via MIDI messages. This data can be sent to a storage device, such as the Alesis DataDisk, or recorded into a MIDI sequencer, or sent to another QuadraSynth. You...
  • Page 120 Similarly, if a Mix is stored, you may want to store each of the Programs used in the Mix, as well as the Effect. The ÒSEND ALL TO MIDIÓ command in the Program Store function is an easy shortcut to this. QuadraSynth Reference Manual...
  • Page 121 MIDI Transfer And Storage Operations QuadraSynth Reference Manual...

  • Page 122: Appendix A: Troubleshooting

    QuadraSynth that would make it behave erratically (such as a long stream of pitch bend messages on 16 channels simultaneously). If these steps do not solve the problem, you must re-initialize the software.

  • Page 123: Checking Software Version

    Refer All Servicing to Alesis We believe that the QuadraSynth is one of the most reliable keyboards that can be made using current technology, and should provide years of trouble-free use.
  • Page 124 Tape a note to the top of the unit describing the problem, include your name and a phone number where Alesis can contact you if necessary, as well as instructions on where you want the product returned. Alesis will pay for standard one-way shipping back to you on any repair covered under the terms of this warranty.
  • Page 125 APPENDIX A: Troubleshooting QuadraSynth Reference Manual...

  • Page 126: Appendix B: Midi Supplement

    MIDI Basics Most current electronic instruments and signal processors, including the QuadraSynth, contain an internal computer. Computers and music have been working together for decades, which is not surprising considering musicÕs mathematical basis (consider frequencies, harmonics, vibrato rates, tunings, etc.). In the mid-70s, microcomputers became inexpensive enough to be built into consumer- priced musical instruments.

  • Page 127: Midi Message Basics

    (these act like potentiometers in that you can choose one of many different values) and 58 continuous/switch (these can act like continuous controllers but some are assumed to choose between two possible states, such as on/off). QuadraSynth Reference Manual...
  • Page 128 Registered Parameter MSB (0-127) Registered Parameter LSB (0-127) Reset All Controllers (0) Local Control On/Off (0 or 127) All Notes Off (0) Omni Off (0) Omni On (0) Mono On (0-16; 0=Omni Off) Poly On (0) QuadraSynth Reference Manual APPENDIX B: MIDI Supplement...

  • Page 129: System Common Messages

    (This appendix is an abridged version of material from Power Sequencing with Master Tracks Pro/Pro 4 and The Complete Guide to the Alesis HR-16 and MMT-8 , copyright 1990 and 1989 respectively by AMSCO Publications, and is adapted with permission.)

  • Page 130: Midi Implementation Chart

    Notes O, X is selectable Mode 1: OMNI ON, POLY Mode 3: OMNI OFF, POLY Mode 1: OMNI ON, MONO Mode 4: OMNI OFF, MONO QuadraSynth UserÕs Manual Transmitted Recognized 1 Ñ 16 1 Ñ 16 each Mode 3 0 Ñ 127 0 Ñ...

  • Page 131: Program Parameters

    AENV ALFO ALFO ALFO ALFO ALFO ALFO AENV FENV PENV AENV FENV PENV Misc. Effect-Level Effect-Level Effect Effect Filter FENV FENV FENV Filter FLFO Filter FLFO FLFO FLFO FLFO FLFO Filter Pitch QuadraSynth UserÕs Manual Quad Page in Knob Manual...
  • Page 132 Sustain Pedal: Amp Sustain Pedal: Filter Sustain Pedal: Pitch Time Track: AENV Time Track: FENV Time Track: PENV Track Input Track Points (0Ñ10) Tuning: Semitone Tuning: Detune QuadraSynth UserÕs Manual Quad Function Page Knob ALFO FLFO Name 1Ñ10 Level Level...

  • Page 133: Mix Parameters

    Assign Voice Level Quad Function Page Knob Effect Effect Effect Effect Range Range Range Range Name 1Ñ10 Effect-Level Effect-Level Program Assign Level Level Level Program Assign Program Assign Range Range Pitch Pitch QuadraSynth UserÕs Manual Page in Manual Page in Manual...

  • Page 134: Index

    User 35 MIDI 21, 22, 23, 31, 119, 120, 122 controllers 120 IN 21 OUT 21, 45 Program Select 110 QuadraSynth UserÕs Manual INDEX System Exclusive 21, THRU 21 MIDI channel 15 Mix 31 Mix Edit 17, 29, 39 Effect 44...

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