Alesis QS6.2 Reference Manual
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Alesis QS6.2 Reference Manual

64 voice expandable synthesizer
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Summary of Contents for Alesis QS6.2

  • Page 1 Reference Manual...
  • Page 2 This page intentionally left blank 100%...

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Table Of Contents Introduction ...5 Important Safety Instructions ...7 Chapter 1: Connections...11 Chapter 2: First Session...13 Playing the Demos ...13 Playing Programs...13 Finding Programs...13 Playing Split and Layered Programs (Mixes)...14 Changing the Programs in a Mix ...14 Selecting Banks ...15 Using the Performance Controls ...15 Transposing the Keyboard...15 Storing and Copying ...16...
  • Page 4 Table Of Contents Setting the Behavior of the MIDI Out Port...32 Resetting the A-D Controllers...32 Setting the A-D Controller MIDI Mode ...32 Chapter 7: Editing Programs...33 QS Composite Synthesis™...33 Selecting a Sound to Edit [00-30 SOUND] ...35 The Voice Function [40 VOICE] ...36 The Level Function [50 LEVEL] ...38 The Pitch Function [60 PITCH]...39 The Filter Function [70 FILTER]...41...
  • Page 5 Where can I get Q Cards?...90 Where can I get SRAM cards and Flash cards?...90 Where can I get more Banks?...90 Are QS6.2/QS8.2 Programs compatible with older QS programs? ...90 How do I change what the sliders do?...90 Appendix B: Sound Bridge...91 Appendix C: MIDI Supplement ...93...

  • Page 7: Introduction

    In addition, we improved the little, but important, things. The User Bank Programs have been completely updated. The rear-panel jacks have been moved to make the QS6.2 fit on certain kinds of stands better. We even re-wrote the manual and added a FAQ with the questions we've received the most over the years.

  • Page 8: Unpacking And Inspection

    • AC power cable • This instruction manual Please log on to the Alesis website at www.alesis.com to register your new QS synthesizer. This will help us give you the best support we possibly can. How to Use This Manual We’re sure you’d like to jump in and start using your QS synthesizer...

  • Page 9: Important Safety Instructions

    Important Safety Instructions Important Safety Instructions (English) Safety symbols used in this product This symbol alerts the user that there are important operating and maintenance instructions in the literature accompanying this unit. This symbol warns the user of uninsulated voltage within the unit that can cause dangerous electric shocks.
  • Page 10 Important Safety Instructions Instructions de Sécurité Importantes (French) Symboles utilisés dans ce produit Ce symbole alèrte l’utilisateur qu’il existe des instructions de fonctionnement et de maintenance dans la documentation jointe avec ce produit. Ce symbole avertit l’utilisateur de la présence d’une tension non isolée à l’intérieur de l’appareil pouvant engendrer des chocs électriques.
  • Page 11 Lesen Sie bitte die folgende Sicherheitshinweise (German) Sicherheit Symbole verwendet in diesem Produkt Dieses Symbol alarmiert den Benutzer, daß es wichtige Funktionieren und Wartung Anweisungen in der Literatur gibt, die diese Maßeinheit begleitet. Dieses Symbol warnt den Benutzer der nicht isolierten Spannung innerhalb der Maßeinheit, die gefährliche elektrische Schläge verursachen kann.

  • Page 12: Ce Declaration Of Conformity

    Important Safety Instructions CE Declaration Of Conformity See our website at: http://www.alesis.com FCC Compliance Statement This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

  • Page 13: Chapter 1: Connections

    Connections Connecting AC Power Before making any power connections, make sure the QS’s power switch is turned off. 1. Plug the female end of the power cable into the QS’s power socket. 2. Plug the male (plug) end into a properly grounded power outlet. Making Audio Connections There are several ways to hook up your QS synthesizer audio outputs: •...
  • Page 14 Connections Connection Diagram...

  • Page 15: Chapter 2: First Session

    First Session Playing the Demos The QS has five built-in demo sequences. To play a demo, hold down [MIX] and press a number button from [0] through [4]. Playback will start with the specified demo and continue through the remaining demos. To stop the demo, press [MIX].

  • Page 16: Playing Split And Layered Programs (Mixes)

    First Session Playing Split and Layered Programs (Mixes) A Mix is a combination of up to 16 Programs, allowing you to play more than one sound at the same time. The Programs may be split or layered across the keyboard, or distributed among MIDI channels for multitimbral sequencing.

  • Page 17: Selecting Banks

    Depending on how hard you play, the volume and tonal quality of the sound will change. • Keyboard Aftertouch (QS6.2 only) lets you change the sound by pressing down hard on the keys after you’ve played them. While holding key down, you can press harder on it to change the character of the sound.

  • Page 18: Storing And Copying

    [PCMCIA EXPANSION SLOT], use the [BANK] buttons to select a card bank. Press [STORE] again. TIP: The factory User Bank Mixes and Programs are available on the Alesis website. NOTE: The PRESET and GenMIDI banks reside in ROM, so they can’t be overwritten...

  • Page 19: Chapter 3: Overview

    Overview The Front Panel Controls From left to right, we have: [PITCH] Bend Wheel – for bending pitch during performance. [MODULATION] Wheel – for adding vibrato and tremolo during performance. [VOLUME] Slider– sets the output level. [CONTROLLER A-D]/[EDIT VALUE] Sliders – for adjusting parameters during performance or Edit mode.

  • Page 20: The Play Modes

    Overview The Play Modes We’ve already introduced you to these modes in the last chapter. This is where you’ll normally be when you’re playing your QS. Program Mode In this mode, you can play the QS’s various Programs one at a time. You’ll probably be in this mode most of the time.

  • Page 21: The Edit Modes

    The Edit Modes The Edit Modes are used to change the QS’s sounds and various parameters. Many people are perfectly happy using their QS without ever editing a sound. However, if you like to tweak and create your own sounds, you’ll be using these modes. Program Edit Mode In this mode, you can change the settings that make up a Program or create an entirely new Program from scratch.

  • Page 22: Global And Store Modes

    Overview Global and Store Modes Global Mode In this mode, you can set various aspects of the QS that don’t change whenever a new Program or Mix is selected (for example, the keyboard sensitivity). Press the [EDIT] button, then the [BANK >] button (with [GLOBAL] written under it) to get into this mode.

  • Page 23: Chapter 4: Expansion Cards

    The QS can accommodate 2MB, 4MB, and 8MB flash cards (larger cards will work, but only the first 8MB will be utilized by the QS). Using Alesis’ Sound Bridge software on your PC or Mac, you can download samples into the Flash card through MIDI.

  • Page 24: Saving A Bank To An Sram Card (Formatting)

    Expansion Cards To play back a card sequence: Insert the card containing sequence data into the [PCMCIA EXPANSION SLOT]. Press the [SEQ SELECT] button. The display will look like this: 3) Use the [00] through [40] buttons to pick the tens digit of the sequence number.

  • Page 25: Loading A Program Or Mix From A Card

    Expansion Cards 4 ) Use the [CONTROLLER D] slider or the [VALUE] buttons to select the bank on the card you wish to load (A1–A4, etc.). 5 ) Press [STORE] to transfer the data from the card into the QS. Loading a Program or Mix from a Card To load a single Mix or Program from a card into the User Bank, first select the Mix or Program, then use the Store Function to store it in the...

  • Page 27: Chapter 5: Midi

    MIDI What is MIDI? MIDI stands for Music Instrument Digital Interface. It allows music instruments to communicate with each other. You can use MIDI to: • Record what you play on your QS synthesizer into a sequencer or computer. • Play back sequences from a sequencer or computer on your QS. •...
  • Page 28 MIDI • Slave. With this setup, you can use another keyboard to play the sounds on your QS. Connect a MIDI cable from the controller’s MIDI OUT jack to the QS’s [MIDI IN] jack. Master • Slave with pass-through. This setup allows MIDI signals to pass through the QS so they may reach multiple units.

  • Page 29: Using Your Qs With A Midi Sequencer

    Using Your QS With a MIDI Sequencer A sequencer is a device that records and plays back note messages. A sequencer can take the form of a stand-alone hardware device, or a computer with a MIDI interface and sequencing software. Using a MIDI sequencer, you can record what you play on your QS, and then play it back later.
  • Page 30 MIDI 4 ) Set up your receiving device to accept a MIDI sysex dump. 5.) Press [STORE] to transmit the data from the QS. While transmitting the data, the display will read “SENDING OUT MIDI DATA...”. To send a single Program via MIDI: 1 ) Follow steps 1 and 2 in the instructions above.

  • Page 31: Chapter 6: Global Parameters

    Global Parameters What are the Global Parameters? Certain basic parameters affect your entire QS. Because they affect everything, they are called the Global Parameters. Entering Global Mode Press [EDIT]. Press the [BANK >] button (with [GLOBAL] written beneath it). The display will look like this: To exit Global Mode, press [MIX] or [PROGRAM].

  • Page 32: Setting The Keyboard Velocity Scaling

    (like the QS8.2’s). PLASTC has a narrower dynamic velocity range associated with synth keyboards (like the QS6.2’s). Notes played gently will be louder than they would be if you had selected WEIGHT. MAXMUM means that every note played on the keyboard is given the maximum MIDI velocity, which is 127.

  • Page 33: Turning On General Midi

    MIDI devices. You’ll need to set your sequencer to echo back the MIDI data that is being recorded. Turning on General MIDI Button: [EDIT] [GLOBAL] Page: Parameter: Genrl MIDI (ON, OFF) This setting allows your QS to play any of the thousands of General MIDI (“GM”...

  • Page 34: Setting The Behavior Of The Midi Out Port

    Global Parameters ON makes the QS send and respond to MIDI Program Changes. In Program Mode it will send and receive Program Changes over the currently selected MIDI channel. In Mix Mode, Program Changes are received over all active MIDI channels, but sent only from those displayed channels that have had MIDI OUT enabled.

  • Page 35: Chapter 7: Editing Programs

    Editing Programs QS Composite Synthesis™ The QS generates sound through the use of QS Composite Synthesis™. The basis of this technology is the playback and processing of audio samples. A sample is a digital recording of a sound. The sound could be a sine wave, a grand piano, or even a full orchestra.

  • Page 36: Editing Programs

    Editing Programs The following diagram shows the signal flow for each Sound: Range Voice Envelope Sound 1 Sound 2 Sound 3 Sound 4 Modulation In synthesizer programming, modulation refers to modifying some aspect of a sound over time. Modulation is the key to making rich and expressive sounds.

  • Page 37: Selecting A Sound To Edit [00-30 Sound]

    Each envelope generator has the standard attack, decay, sustain, and release parameters found on most synthesizers, along with delay, sustain decay, and different triggering options. More on this later. The Effects Section The QS features a complete digital effects section with four input buses, simultaneous multiple effects, and flexible signal routing.

  • Page 38: The Voice Function [40 Voice]

    Editing Programs The Voice Function [40 VOICE] Hit the [40] button to choose the sample that forms the basis of your Sound. Use the [PAGE] buttons to select parameters within this function to edit. Turning Sounds On and Off Button: [EDIT] [40 VOICE] Page: Parameter:...
  • Page 39 Group GrndPianoL, GrndPianoR, DarkPno1 L, DarkPno1 R, DarkPno2 L, DarkPno2 R, DarkPno3 L, Piano DarkPno3 R, BritePno1L, BritePno1R, BritePno2L, BritePno2R, BritePno3L, BritePno3R, 4::VibesWave, NoHammer R, SoftPianoL, SoftPianoR, VeloPianoL, VeloPianoR, TapPiano L, TapPiano R, E Spinet 1, E Spinet 2, Toy Pno L, Toy Pno R, KeyTrack1, KeyTrack2, Stretch L, Stretch R, PianoWaveL, PianoWaveR, BriteRoads, Dark Roads, Soft Roads, VeloRoads1, VeloRoads2, VeloRoads3, Wurly, VeloWurly1, VeloWurly2, FM Piano, FM Tines, Soft Tines, VelAtkTine, Vel FM Pno, BrtRdsWave, DrkRdsWave, SftRdsWave, Wurly Wave...

  • Page 40: The Level Function [50 Level]

    [EDIT] [50 LEVEL] Page: Parameter: Snd Output (see below) In the QS6.2, selecting ON routes the Sound to the main outputs; OFF shuts off the path. NOTE: If the Volume setting is “maxed out” and you still can't hear anything, make sure the Filter Frequency setting (described later in this chapter) is greater than zero.

  • Page 41: The Pitch Function [60 Pitch]

    In the QS8.2, selecting MAIN routes the Sound to the main outputs; OFF shuts off the path. A setting of AUX will also shut off the path. (This is provided for backward compatibility with older QS8 models). Setting the FX Send Level Button: [EDIT] [50 LEVEL] Page:...
  • Page 42 Editing Programs With EQU selected, the absolute amount of detuning remains the same over the entire keyboard, so any detuning seems less pronounced as you play higher up on the keyboard. Setting the Pitch Wheel Bend Amount Button: [EDIT] [60 PITCH] Page: Parameter: PWHL>PITCH (0 to 12 semitones)

  • Page 43: The Filter Function [70 Filter]

    Setting the Portamento Mode Button: [EDIT] [60 PITCH] Page: Parameter: Prtamento (EXPON, LNEAR, 1-SPD) Portamento provides a glide in pitch from one note to the next. An example of this is a steel guitar, where a note slides from one pitch to another.
  • Page 44 Editing Programs positive modulation won’t have any affect, since the filter is already “maxed-out”. Turning On Filter Keyboard Tracking Button: [EDIT] [70 FILTER] Page: Parameter: Kbd Track (ON or OFF) This sets how the filter frequency tracks across the keyboard. When OFF, the filter frequency remains constant across the keyboard.

  • Page 45: The Amp/Range Function [80 Amp/Range]

    Setting the Filter Envelope Amount Button: [EDIT] [70 FILTER] Page: Parameter: F-ENV>FILT (-99 to +99) This sets how much the Filter Envelope affects the filter frequency. Higher values increase the effect of the Filter Envelope. Negative values turn the envelope upside-down. The Amp/Range Function [80 AMP/RANGE] The Amp/Range function (button[80]) lets you control the velocity and keyboard range of each Sound layer.

  • Page 46: The Pitch Envelope Function [90 Pitch Envelope]

    Editing Programs Setting the Amplitude LFO Amount Button: [EDIT] [80 AMP/RANGE] Page: Parameter: A-LFO>AMP (-99 to +99) This sets how much the Amplitude LFO affects the level. Higher values increase the amount of amplitude LFO modulation. Negative values flip the LFO phase. Setting the Lower Keyboard Limit Button: [EDIT] [80 AMP/RANGE]...

  • Page 47: The Amplitude Envelope Function [110 Amp Envelope]

    The Amplitude Envelope Function [110 AMP ENVELOPE] The Amplitude Envelope (button [110]) determines the volume of the note over time. For example, it determines whether the note fades in slowly or starts abruptly. Unlike the Pitch and Filter Envelopes, the Amp Envelope is always fully active.
  • Page 48 Editing Programs This sets the amount of time the envelope will take to get from its current level to zero after the note is released. The higher the value, the longer it will take. When set to HOLD, the Pitch Envelope will remain where it is after the note is released.

  • Page 49: Naming The Program [120 Name]

    Activating Envelope Key Tracking Buttons: [EDIT] [90]-[110] Page: Parameter: Time Track (ON or OFF) This determines whether keyboard position affects the speed of the envelope. When ON, playing toward the higher end of the keyboard will result in a faster envelope cycle. This only affects the decay, sustain decay and release segments of the envelope.

  • Page 50: Copying Sound Layers [Store]

    Editing Programs Copying Sound Layers [STORE] While editing a Program, it is helpful to be able to copy a Sound layer to another Sound in either the same Program or a different Program, especially if you are building a split or layered Program. Here’s how: 1 ) From Program Edit mode, press [STORE].

  • Page 51: Chapter 8: Modulations

    Modulations The Mod Routes As we mentioned in the previous chapter, modulation refers to modifying some aspect of a sound. For example, sound volume is shaped (or modulated) by the Amplitude Envelope. A Mod Route refers to a modulation source and the destination that it is modulating. In the previous chapter, we’ve already covered some of the “hard wired”...

  • Page 52: Selecting A Mod Route [0-5 Mod]

    Modulations Editing the Mod Routes The Mod Routes are part of each Program, just like any other program parameter (like Filter Frequency for example). Hit [EDIT] from Program mode to begin editing. Selecting a Mod Route [0-5 MOD] In Program Edit Mode, use the [0] - [5] buttons to select one of the six mod routes to edit.
  • Page 53 • PEDAL 2: Although there is no Pedal 2 jack on the QS, it is available as a modulation source via MIDI controller messages. The Pedal 2 modulation source defaults to MIDI Controller #4 (Standard Foot Controller). It is possible to assign it to a different controller number if you wish on Global Mode, page 13.

  • Page 54: The Pitch Lfo Function [6 Pitch Lfo]

    Modulations Setting the Mod Level Buttons: [EDIT] [0-5 MOD] Page: Parameter: Level (-99 to +99) This sets the modulation level. At zero, the modulation source has no effect on the destination (it is disabled). Higher positive values increase the amount of modulation in the positive direction. Negative values increase the amount of modulation in the negative direction.
  • Page 55 Selecting the LFO Waveform Buttons: [EDIT] [6-8] Page: Parameter: Wave (8 choices) The waveform determines the shape of the LFO. Note that the two Sawtooth waves, the Square and the Random+ waves are unipolar (positive-going only) and the rest are bipolar (positive and negative going): SINE SINE...

  • Page 56: Scaling Modulation Sources [9 Track Gen]

    Modulations MONO. All voices’ LFOs will be in sync with each other. POLY. Each voice’s LFO is independent. If you hold a chord, some voices’ LFOs will be moving in one direction while others move in the other direction. If the LFO Speed is being modulated (by one of the envelopes, for example), the LFOs of each voice may be running at different speeds.
  • Page 57 It might be helpful to think of the Tracking Generator as a fifth page available to the Mod function. When you choose it as your source on the first page of a Mod (let's say button [0], or Mod 1), you then need to go select the TG's input on button [9], page 1.
  • Page 58 Modulations Selecting the Tracking Generator Input Button: [EDIT] [9 TRACK GEN] Page: Parameter: Input (see below) Select the input of the Tracking Generator from the following sources: • Note Number • Velocity • Release Velocity • Aftertouch • Poly Pressure For detailed descriptions of each of these sources, see the section “Modulation Source”...

  • Page 59: Chapter 9: Editing Drum Kits

    Editing Drum Kits Drum Mode Drum Mode allows you to construct your own drum kits within a Program. Any one or all of the four Sound layers in a Program can be put into Drum Mode. In Drum Mode, you can select 10 drum samples per Sound and individually control their pitch, level, panning, effects routings, and placement on the keyboard.

  • Page 60: Editing Drum Kits

    Editing Drum Kits Here is a chart listing the various drum samples in their respective groups. Group FloppyKik1, FloppyKik2, FloppyKikV, MasterKik1, MasterKik2, MasterKikV, MetalKick1, Kick MetalKick2, MetalKickV, GrooveKik1, GrooveKik2, GrooveKikV, Sharp Kick, Tek Kick 1, Tek Kick 2, Tek Kick V, AnalogKik1, AnalogKik2, AnalogKik3, AnalogKikV, Rap Kick Fat Wood 1, Fat Wood 2, Fat Wood V, HR Snare 1, HR Snare 2, HR Snare V, MasterSnr1, Snare MasterSnr2, MasterSnrV, Piccolo 1, Piccolo 2, Piccolo V, Electronc1, Electronc2, ElectroncV, Rap...

  • Page 61: The Level Function [50 Level]

    Page: Parameter: Output (see below) In the QS6.2, selecting ON routes the Sound to the outputs; OFF shuts off the path. In the QS8.2, selecting MAIN routes the Sound to the outputs; OFF shuts off the path. A setting of AUX will also shut off the path. (This is provided for backward compatibility with older QS8 models).

  • Page 62: The Pitch Function [60 Pitch]

    Editing Drum Kits The Pitch Function [60 PITCH] The Pitch (button [60]) function lets you transpose the selected Drum up or down one octave, and lets you modulate the Drum’s pitch with velocity. Tuning the Drum Sound Button: [EDIT] [60 PITCH] Page: Parameter: Tune (-12.00 to +12.00 semitones)

  • Page 63: The Amp/Env Function [Amp Env 110]

    Choosing the Base Note for the Drum Sound Button: [EDIT] [80 AMP/RANGE] Page: Parameter: Note (C2 000 to G8 127) This sets which note will trigger the Drum sound when played. You can also set the note assignment by holding [80] and tapping a key on the keyboard (while in this page).

  • Page 65: Chapter 10: Editing Mixes

    Editing Mixes What is a Mix? Mix Mode allows you to play up to 16 different Programs at once from the keyboard or an external sequencer. With Mix Mode, you can do the following: • Layer different Programs so they can be played simultaneously from the keyboard.

  • Page 66: The Level Function [60 Level]

    Page: Parameter: Output (see below) In the QS6.2, selecting ON routes all four Sounds to the main outputs; OFF shuts off the paths to the outputs. In the QS8.2, selecting MAIN routes the Sound to the main outputs; OFF shuts off the paths. A setting of AUX will also shut off the paths.

  • Page 67: The Pitch Function [70 Pitch]

    Setting the Mix Channel Effects Send Level Button: [EDIT] [60 LEVEL] Page: Parameter: FX Level (00 to 99, or PROG) This determines the amount of signal from the selected channel that will be sent to the effects. When set to PROG, the effect level will defer to the Program’s Effect Level settings.

  • Page 68: The Keyboard/Midi Function [90 Keyboard/Midi]

    Editing Mixes When set to ON, any Program Change message coming in over the MIDI channel selected for Effects will select a new Program and its associated Effect. When set to OFF, Program Change messages will select new Programs but not change the current Effect setting. This is the default setting. Setting Which Program’s Effects Will be Used Button: [EDIT] [80 EFFECT]...

  • Page 69: The Controller Function [100 Controllers]

    The Controller Function [100 CONTROLLERS] The Controller function (button [100]) lets you turn on and off the various controllers that can affect the selected MIDI channel. Note that these are dependent on how each Channel has its KEYBOARD/MIDI parameters set (see the previous section). Enabling MIDI for the Wheels Button: [EDIT] [100 CONTROLLERS]...

  • Page 70: Naming The Mix [120 Name]

    Editing Mixes Setting the Lower Keyboard Limit (Split Point) Button: [EDIT] [110 RANGE] Page: Parameter: LoLim (000 C2 to 127 G8) Sets the lowest note of the Mix Channel’s keyboard range. Setting the Upper Keyboard Limit (Split Point) Button: [EDIT] [110 RANGE] Page: Parameter: HiLim (000 C2 to 127 G8)

  • Page 71: Chapter 11: Editing Effects

    Editing Effects QS Parallel Matrix Effects™ The QS synthesizer has a powerful built-in digital signal processor capable of generating a variety of effects, including reverb, delay, chorus, flanging and overdrive. The effects processor has four paths called effect Sends. Each Send has its own group of effects arranged in a particular way.

  • Page 72: Storing Effects Settings

    Editing Effects The display will look like this: What the Numbered Buttons Do The [00] – [30] buttons choose among the four Effect Sends, as indicated by the blue middle row of labels above them. You can change which Effect Send you are editing from any Effects Edit function. The [40] –...

  • Page 73: The Configuration Function [40 Configuration]

    Hearing the Effects Only Normally, the final output of an Effect is mixed back in with the original Program or Mix, so that what you hear is a combination of the two. In some cases, however, you may want to hear only the Effected sound. Here’s how to do that: Go into Program Edit mode.

  • Page 74: Configuration 1: 1 Reverb

    Editing Effects Configuration 1: 1 REVERB 1 REVERB is a general-purpose configuration with four Sends, each with a variety of effects which all feed into a single Reverb. Sends 1 and 2 have a Pitch effect followed by a stereo Delay. Send 3 has a mono Pitch effect followed by a mono Delay.

  • Page 75: Configuration 2: 2 Reverbs

    Configuration 2: 2 REVERBS This Configuration should be used when two different reverbs are needed. For example, you might need a gated reverb for drums and a regular reverb for everything else. Send 1 is routed through a mono Delay, then a Chorus, then to the first Reverb.

  • Page 76: Configuration 3: Lezlie+Reverb

    Editing Effects Configuration 3: LEZLIE+REVERB This Configuration is structurally similar to Configuration 1 (1 REVERB). The difference here is that the Pitch effect on Send 1 is a custom-designed stereo “rotating speaker” effect, and it is followed by a mono Delay. This is useful for organ sounds. MAIN LEFT MAIN LEFT MAIN RIGHT...

  • Page 77: Configuration 4: 1 Reverb+Eq

    Configuration 4: 1 REVERB+EQ This is another general-purpose Configuration with the bonus of having a shelving EQ at the output. This Configuration is similar to Configuration 1 (1 REVERB), except that sends 3 and 4 have been removed, and there is a shelving EQ at the main outputs.

  • Page 78: Selecting A Send To Edit [00-30 Send]

    Editing Effects Selecting a Send to Edit [00-30 SEND] After you choose a Configuration, the next step in editing is to pick one of the four Sends to work on. The [00]-[30] buttons select which effects Send (1-4) you are editing. You can change what Send you are editing any time from most of the Effects Edit pages by pressing these buttons.

  • Page 79: The Mod Function [60 Mod]

    Setting the EQ High Shelf Boost Button: [EDIT] [EDIT] [50 EQ] Page: Parameter: Hi EQ Gn (0dB to +9dB) This determines how much boost will be applied to the high shelving The Mod Function [60 MOD] The Mod Function (button [60]) provides two modulation paths, allowing you to modulate two effects parameters at a time, either via MIDI or from your QS.

  • Page 80: The Lezlie Function [70 Lezlie]

    Editing Effects Setting the Mod Level Button: [EDIT] [EDIT] [60 MOD] Pages: 3, 6 Parameter: Mod1 Level, Mod2 Level (-99 to 99) This determines the degree to which the Mod Destination will be modulated by the Source. The Lezlie Function [70 LEZLIE] This “rotating speaker”...

  • Page 81: The Pitch Function [80 Pitch]

    Turning On the Lezlie Motor Button: [EDIT] [EDIT] [70 LEZLIE] Page: 1 or 4 Parameter: Motor (ON or OFF) This determines whether the Lezlie is operating or not. When turned ON, the rotating speaker effect starts up slowly, just like the real thing. When turned OFF, the effect dies down slowly until it reaches a complete stop.

  • Page 82: Editing Effects

    Editing Effects The Chorus effect is achieved by mixing a signal with a slightly delayed and detuned version of itself. This detuning is modulated by an LFO (Low Frequency Oscillator). STEREO CHORUS. In a Stereo Chorus, the signal is split into three parts: a dry signal and separate left and right detunings.
  • Page 83 Setting the Flanger Feedback Type Button: [EDIT] [EDIT] [80 PITCH] Page: 2 (Flanger only) Parameter: FlngShp (NORMAL or INVERT) This determines the phase of the Flanger feedback signal. A setting of INVERT will result in a more dramatic effect. Setting the Chorus/Flanger LFO Speed Button: [EDIT] [EDIT] [80 PITCH] Page:...

  • Page 84: The Delay Function [90 Delay]

    Editing Effects Setting the Resonator Decay Time Button: [EDIT] [EDIT] [80 PITCH] Page: 2, 3 or 5 (Resonator only) Parameter: Resntr Decy (00 to 99) This adjusts the Resonator Decay time. 00 is a fast decay and 99 is a longer decay.

  • Page 85: The Reverb Function [100 Reverb]

    Selecting the Delay Input 2 Source in OVERDRIVE+LEZLIE Button: [EDIT] [EDIT] [90 DELAY] Page: 2 (Config 5 only) Parameter: In2 (SEND1-SEND4, OVERDRIV, PITCH IN) This selects the second input to the Delay effect in Configuration 5, (OVERDRIVE+LEZLIE). Setting the Delay Input Balance Button: [EDIT] [EDIT] [90 DELAY] Page:...
  • Page 86 Editing Effects Selecting the Reverb Input 1 Source Button: [EDIT] [EDIT] [100 REVERB] Page: Parameter: In1 (PITCHout or DELAYout) This selects the first input of the Reverb, the output from either the pitch or delay effect. This parameter is not available in Config 2 (2 REVERBS).

  • Page 87: Reverb Parameters

    Setting the Send 4 Reverb Input Level (2 REVERBS Only) Button: [EDIT] [EDIT] [100 REVERB] Page: 1 (Config 2, Send 4 only) Parameter: RvbIn Send4 (00 to 99) This sets the level of the signal from Send 4 into the Reverb in Send 3. This setting is only available in Configuration 2 (2 REVERBS).
  • Page 88 Editing Effects “air” is being moved when the drum is hit. This effect works great for drums, percussion, and any transient source. REVERSE. The Reverse Reverb type is an inverted reverb in which the signal begins softly and grows louder until it is cut off, rather than loud to soft as normal.

  • Page 89: The Overdrive Function [110 Overdrive]

    Setting the Reverb Hi/Low Decay Time Button: [EDIT] [EDIT] [100 REVERB] Page: 10 or 13 (12 if Gated or Reverse type) Parameter: Density (00 to 99) This controls how the reflections of the reverb will sound. When set to 00, the individual reflections will be very distinct. When set to 99, the reflections will be “smeared”, making the reverb sound more dense.

  • Page 90: Setting The Effects Output Levels [120 Mix]

    Editing Effects Setting the Overdrive Brightness Button: [EDIT] [EDIT] [110 OVERDRIVE] Page: Parameter: Ovrd Bright (00 to 99) This parameter sets the tone of the Overdrive effect. Higher numbers result in a brighter sounding overdrive. Setting the Overdrive Mix Button: [EDIT] [EDIT] [110 OVERDRIVE] Page: Parameter:...

  • Page 91: Appendix A: Frequently Asked Questions

    To load a sequence, you will need either an SRAM card or a Flash card plugged into the QS’s PCMCIA Expansion Slot, a computer with a MIDI port, and Sound Bridge software (available free on the Alesis Website). Connect your computer’s MIDI port to the QS as described in...

  • Page 92: How Do I Load Samples Into The Qs

    Where can I get Q Cards? You can find Q Cards at your local Alesis dealer (where you purchased your QS, for example). In addition, they are available from several nationwide mail-order and internet music equipment dealers.

  • Page 93: Appendix B: Sound Bridge

    .MIDI, and .SMF formats. You can use your own sequences, or use commercially available General MIDI files from the internet and other sources. The Alesis website contains the Sound Bridge application, and an electronic manual which will give you all the information you need to know to run Sound Bridge.

  • Page 95: Appendix C: Midi Supplement

    MIDI Supplement Sending and Receiving Bank Select Messages The QS will send and respond to MIDI Bank Select messages in the form of MIDI Controller 0. The value of Controller 0 determines which bank is to be recalled (User, Preset 1–3, GenMIDI, Card). The way the QS handles Bank Select messages depends on the MIDI Program Select mode (set in Global Mode): MIDI PrgSl: OFF...
  • Page 96 MIDI Supplement parameter. Selection of another Mix in the same bank will send a Program change command which matches the Mix number. In Mix Program Select Mode (where you choose the Programs within the Mix), changing the Bank of any Program within the Mix will not send a Bank Select command.
  • Page 97 MIDI Controller Numbers Each type of controller has its own MIDI controller number. Not all controller numbers have been standardized for specific functions, but the following indicates the current list of assigned controllers. Numbers in parentheses indicate the controller range. Function Bank Select (0-127) Modulation Wheel (0-127)

  • Page 98: Midi Implementation Chart

    MIDI Supplement MIDI Implementation Chart Function Basic Default Channel Changed Default Mode Messages Altered Note Number True Voice Velocity Note On Note Off After Keys Touch Ch’s Pitch Bender Control 0 — 120 O Change Prog Change True # System Exclusive System Song Pos Common...

  • Page 99: Appendix D: Troubleshooting

    Troubleshooting If you experience problems while operating your QS, please use the following table to check for possible causes and solutions before contacting Alesis customer service for assistance. Symptoms The display does not light up when the ON/OFF switch is turned on.

  • Page 100: Recovering From A Crash

    Troubleshooting Recovering from a Crash If your QS behaves erratically or “freezes” on you, the first thing to try is to switch between Mix and Program modes once. If that doesn’t do anything, turn it off, wait for a moment, and then turn it on again. Make sure you turn off any amplification first! If your instrument still isn’t working after that, then disconnect the [MIDI IN] cable and repeat the power on/off trick.

  • Page 101: Specifications

    Main L/R (1/4”), Headphone (1/4” TRS) Power: Internal Transformer Dimensions (WxHxD): QS6.2: 36.0” x 3.5” x 11.25” (915mm x 89mm x 286mm) QS8.2: 50.5” x 4.3” x 13.5” (1283mm x 110mm x 343mm) Weight: QS6.2: 18.5 lbs. (8.4 kg) QS8.2: 48.0 lbs. (21.8 kg)

  • Page 103: Index

    Index 1 Pitch keyboard mode, 41 1 Reverb configuration, 72 2 Reverbs configuration, 73 aftertouch, 15 filter depth, 42 LFO depth, 54 pitch bend amount, 40 volume increase, 43 amp LFO function, 52 amp/env function, 61 amp/range function, 43 amplifier, 33 amplitude LFO amount, 44 velocity curve, drum, 60...
  • Page 104 Index out port behavior, 32 pass-through, 26 sequencing, 26 slave, 26 storing via, 27, 28 volume and panning, 94 mix function, 88 Mixes, 14, 63 changing Programs in, 14, 63 controllers, 67 edit buffers, 68 edit mode, 63 effects, 65 effects selection, 66 enabling a channel, 64 level, 64...

  • Page 105: Warranty/Contact Alesis

    The purchaser should complete and return the enclosed warranty card within 14 days of purchase. During the warranty period ALESIS shall, at its sole and absolute option, either repair or replace free of charge any product that proves to be defective on inspection by ALESIS or its authorized service representative.

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