Modulated Effects - Lexicon MX500 Owner's Manual

Effects Descriptions

modulaTed effeCTs

Chorus -
Stereo
Chorus creates a lush, full sound by combining two or more signals together where
one is unaffected and the other signals vary in pitch very slightly over time. Chorus
is commonly used to fatten up tracks and to add body to guitars without coloring the
original tone. Chorus can also be used with discretion to thicken a vocal track.
Flanger -
Stereo
This effect was originally created by simultaneously recording and playing back two
identical programs on two tape recorders, then using hand pressure against the flange
of the tape reels to slow down first one machine, then the other. The result was a series
of changing phase cancellations and reinforcements, with characteristic swishing, tun-
neling, and fading sounds.
Phaser -
Stereo
The Phaser automatically moves frequency notches up and down the spectrum of the
signal by means of a low frequency oscillator (LFO), creating an oscillating "comb-
filter" type effect. This effect is very useful on keyboards (especially pad presets) and
guitars.
Tremolo/Pan -
Stereo (Wet Only)
Tremolo and Panner create rhythmic changes in signal amplitude. Tremolo
affects both channel's amplitude simultaneously, while the Panner affects the ampli-
tude of each channel in an alternating manner.
Rotary -
Mono In/Stereo Out (Wet Only)
Rotary speaker cabinets were designed to provide a majestic vibrato/choir effect for
electronic theater and church organs. The most well known rotary speaker is the
Leslie™ Model 122, which has two counter-rotating elements: a high-frequency horn
and a low-frequency rotor with slow and fast speeds. The sound generated as the spin-
ning elements change speed is truly magical. The swirling, spacious effect is difficult to
describe – but clearly recognizable.
The Rotary effect is modeled after a Leslie-style cabinet. The input signal is split into
high and low-frequency bands. The rotation effect is created by a synchronized com-
bination of pitch shifting, tremolo, and panning. Like the physical cabinet, the high
(horn) and low (rotor) frequencies are "spun" in opposite directions. Horn and rotor
speeds are independent, and designed with acceleration and deceleration characteristics
to simulate the inertia of the original mechanical elements.
A virtual requirement for organ music, Rotary also sounds remarkable with guitar
and electric piano rhythm parts. In fact, these programs are great alternatives to the
Chorus and Tremolo effects for any sound source.
Vibrato -
Stereo (Wet Only)
Vibrato is obtained by smoothly varying the pitch of the signal just sharp and flat of
the original at a determined rate.
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