Diagram legend Using ALL HIT Diagrams HIT – Dynamic versus Snapshot Quick troubleshooting tips Storing Presets Tapping tempo Product VL3X Product (firmware) version 2.0.01 Build 326 Document Reference manual Document version / date 2015-07-16 VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
12. Use only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the ap- paratus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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Do not install this device in a confined space. ► For use at an altitude of 2000 m or lower. ► Do not open the unit – risk of electric shock ► inside. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a cir- ► cuit different from that to which the receiver is connected. Consult the dealer or an experienced ra- ► dio / TV technician for help. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
The exclamation point triangle is used to alert the user to presence of import- ant operating and service instructions in the literature accompanying the product. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
You can download the most current version of this reference manual from: tc-helicon.com/support/manuals/ To get the most from your TC-Helicon pro duct, please start by reading the printed quick guide that came with the product. Then proceed with this reference manual. Read it from start to fin- ish, or you may miss important information.
Before you begin Getting support If you still have questions about the product af- ter reading this reference manual, please get in touch with TC-Helicon Support: tc-helicon.com/support/product/ VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
Before you begin VoiceSupport VoiceSupport is the application that allows you to fully unlock the potential of your TC-Helicon product and stay in touch with the latest news, tips and tricks. VoiceSupport key features include: Professionally authored preset libraries ►...
Before you begin Please register your VL3X To register your VL3X using the VoiceSupport software, launch VoiceSupport and click on the ACCOUNT button. You can also go to account.tc-helicon.com Registration of your product is NOT required to use VoiceSupport, download presets, update firmware or contact support.
Tracks” and “Backing Track Sequence Record- ing (Automation)”. As you discovered in the Quick Start Guide (the short manual that came in the box), VL3X is easy to use at the top level but offers unpre cedented depth in both control and editing. We recom-...
Once you have learned how to remap one footswitch, you know how to remap them all. VL3X is built on the fundamental concept of “lay- ers”. From a design perspective, there are thee Layers to work with: Vocal ►...
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Make sure a particular effect effect in the Vocal and Guitar Layers. There are always sounds the same VL3X allows you to define a specific Preset as endless possibilities for Global effects handling, Want a certain Delay available in every Preset? the “Global”...
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Imagine a “beat box” style rhythm that is 1 bar long and a guitar progression that is 8 bars long. In the past, you would have to record 8 bars of VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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No more “tap dancing” on the effects buttons. VL3X takes that ball and runs with it. In fact, it No more external track player. Just a great per- pulls a Forrest Gump and runs straight out of the...
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Monitor IN Using the Monitor IN XLR connection, you can bring a “monitor or cue” mix into your VL3X, blending it with your own vocal, guitar and loop sounds. The incoming monitor IN does not get passed back out of the unit –...
Introduction Top panel overview Click or tap on an interface element to jump directly to its description. Record Audio Push for Favorite Record Sequence VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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Tap again er”. For example, you may want to to confirm. For more informa- restrict the Presets “visible” to you in VL3X to tion, see “Storing Presets”. Guitar button those that are defined as “Rock” or “Country”...
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When you are on an Edit screen, use the Arrow buttons to move between tabs. NP LED The NP LED lights when Nat- uralPlay (chord) information is received via Guitar, MIDI, Aux, Looper or RoomSense. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
Introduction Footswitches overview Click or tap on an interface element to jump directly to its description. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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Preset up / Preset down footswitches Layer footswitch Below is a description of the footswitches on VL3X. Some switches will be discussed in more Tap the Preset Up/Preset Down detail later in the manual. To switch between the Vocal and ►...
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If you are using the current Preset, make sure Layer, changing the footswitch LED color from that it sounds the way you want it to before you blue to red. enter Step management. Adding a Step to a Preset VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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Looper can be incredibly useful When you are happy with the tempo, stop ► in performance, when you need quick access in tapping. and out. For more information about Steps, see “Using Steps”. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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For more information, see “Double effect “Editing the Guitar Layer”. block / tab”. On the Guitar Layer, tap the Double/Comp footswitch to turn the Compressor on or off. For more information, see “Comp(ression) effect block / tab”. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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On the Guitar Layer, tap the Harmony/Drive footswitch to turn the Drive effect on or off. Drive encompasses effects such as Boost, Boost & Drive and Drive. For more information, see “Drive effect block / tab”. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
Introduction Back panel inputs and outputs VL3X offers extremely robust input and output routing. Using the Monitor IN/THRU and dedi- cated Guitar outputs effectively, you can greatly reduce the amount of gear you need to take to a performance. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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6. Footswitch. Connect a TC-Helicon Switch-3 or Switch-6 here. You can also connect a second expression pedal here – see “Working with a second expression pedal”. 7. Expression pedal input 8. USB Host port VL3X inputs overview VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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MIDI Out: The MIDI Out jack sends MIDI Con- trol Change messages (MIDI CCs) related to footswitches and buttons pressed on VL3X. If no CC is sent, there is likely no CC assigned to that particular action. Currently, Vocal & Guitar effects ON/OFF and their respective levels are represented by MIDI Control Change messages.
VL3X overview Setting up Instead of jumping directly into a whole bunch If you would prefer to use VL3X via your PA, you of descriptions of parameters and fine tuning will need one or two additional XLR cables to controls, now is a good time to back up a bit connect VL3X’s XLR outputs to inputs at your...
MIDI Jack 1/4 inch jack Combo Jack XLR Male XLR Female Keyboard or other instrument XLR cables Power Input 1/8 inch jack GRND Lift Mini USB USB Type A USB Type B Monitor Mix VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
There are a few things we would like you to keep in mind as you look at the diagrams: 1. Inputs to VL3X will be to the left of the back panel image. 2. Outputs from VL3X will be to the right of the back panel image.
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Press Home to exit. ► When choosing Stereo, ensure the PA is ac- ► tually outputting a stereo signal. It’s common for a PA to have two speakers or speaker sets – but still be mono. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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Dual Mono PA connection for vocals (& guitar if applicable) This diagram shows a “Dual Mono” output mode. Dual Mono sends two mono signals from the XLR outputs on VL3X. One XLR carries the vocal sounds and the other XLR carries the gui- tar sounds.
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You may want to make a quick adjustment to the guitar output if you are connected to an amp. It might be desirable to turn off VL3X’s speaker simulations while preserving all of the other gui- tar effects. This will allow the “character” of your amp to stay the same from Preset to Preset.
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The kitchen sink – everything hooked up It’s unlikely that you will have absolutely every- thing seen here hooked up to VL3X – but this diagram can serve as a general connection di- agram that you can use to configure your per- sonal setup.
Quick troubleshooting tips “I’m not hearing my voice!” “I’m not hearing my guitar.” After following the VL3X Quick Start Guide and referring to the diagrams in “Setting up”, you should hear your voice and instrument(s) via your Do the Level LEDs near the Control Knob light up Check that your guitar is turned all the way up.
VL3X’s fantastic features – but nothing beats hearing (and trying) them for your- self. If you want to get an idea of VL3X’s potential, plug in a microphone, ► connect VL3X to a set of speakers or your fa- ►...
While some product manuals take a path through all of the functions and features, we are going to lead you on a tour of VL3X from a practical use standpoint. If you follow along on your VL3X while reading the following pages, you will get a good grasp of most of the key features in the box.
Using all the features described on the following pages, you might find yourself deep in some sub- menu or parameter list. Don’t panic! Just press the Home button, and you will return to VL3X’s “Home” screen. The Home screen shows… The number of the current Preset.
For more information, see “Using Preset Genres and Favorites”. On an Edit or System screen, the Control ► Knob acts as a vertical scroll control. Use it to navigate up or down through parameters and settings. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
“tabs” in that menu. For example, the Vocal edit screen has a sep- arate tab or “page” for each vocal effect. The Arrow buttons move from left to right through these tabs. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
Getting to know VL3X What is a Preset? VL3X and many other TC-Helicon devices are based on the concept of “Presets”. Essentially, a Preset is a record of all the settings for a group of effects that you can recall quickly and easily.
If you treat the Verse Preset as your starting point (perhaps name it simply with your song name), you can add Steps to that initial Preset to cover the other sections of your song, in the or- der that they are needed. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
Pressing any other button – like HOME – to To add a Preset to the Favorite Genre, sim- ► you to filter the Presets in VL3X based on the exit Genre selection mode will not select the ply press the Control Knob down while on the musical genre or primary effect.
Just play your guitar normally (chords work best) and sing! Similarly, if you connect a MIDI-enabled key- board using a MIDI cable, VL3X will follow your playing to determine key/scale for Harmony voic- es and HardTune.
Press Home to exit. ► Using Global Key/Scale Once you get more familiar with VL3X, you may want to turn Global Key/Scale off in order to save a different Key/Scale per Preset. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
If the scale is not already “Maj 2”, tap the Step ► button repeatedly until the display shows Maj Let the Key/Scale screen “time out” and dis- ► appear (by not doing anything for a few sec- onds). Setting Key and Scale VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
If you are a singer, and if you have set the key/ scale correctly in the previous step, the harmo- nies should follow your lead melody correctly. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
HIT on. Note the additional (highlighted) effects Practice using HIT to turn the Harmony on and off at interesting points in the song. This skill is essential for using the effects “in time” with your VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
Next, turn off Harmony using the HIT button. Try tapping the Double button to add the Double ef- fect to your voice. Do the same with Delay and µMod. Try a few of the effects together and see what it sounds like. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
Notice how the blue light only comes on while you hold the button down? That’s Momen- tary mode. Try singing the same song again, pressing/hold- ing the HIT footswitch when you want harmonies Buttonmap menu VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
► easy access to the Octaver effect. Since there are 11 vocal effects and 9 guitar ef- fects in VL3X, but only 6 footswitches, the ability to assign new functions to these footswitches gives you a lot of flexibility. Let’s remap µMod to HardTune. Later, you can remap any footswitch as you wish, for this exam- µMod footswitch remapped to HardTune...
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(Double) Double footswitch on the Vocal Layer remapped to Guitar HIT Remember that remapping a Guitar effect to the Vocal Layer needs to be done via the Vocal Buttonmap. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
Talk/Tuner Mode Exiting Talk/Tuner mode Before you get too far into playing your guitar through VL3X, it’s a good idea to become famil- iar with the Talk/Tuner mode. To exit Talk/Tuner mode, simply press both the Preset up and Down button simultaneously The tuner offers a couple of neat features for again.
For those of you playing guitar, this is a good process. You are now in Guitar Edit mode, and time to try out the various guitar effects in VL3X. you can move to the Buttonmap screen from If you are a vocalist without a guitar, go get a there.
If you save the Preset, your new HIT assign- ► Preset 2 – HIT on ment will be saved and you can control both µMod and Harmony with the single HIT button the next time you use the Preset. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
There’s also a “wrench” icon instead of a microphone – showing you that you are no longer just controlling Vocal effects. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
HIT – Dynamic versus Snapshot Using HIT in “Dynamic” Using HIT in “Snapshot” mode VL3X’s default HIT behavior is “dynamic”, which mode (default) means you can make edits to the effects con- tained within the HIT variation of the Preset by...
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Use the < or > buttons to navigate to the Sys- ► tem page. Use the Control Knob to scroll down to the HIT ► Behavior parameter. Change HIT Behavior from Dynamic to Snap- ► shot. Changing HIT Behavior from Dynamic to Snapshot VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
Preset name. your Presets. In the upper part of the Store screen, you will see the current name of the Preset. Use the Mix Knobs under the display to control the following functions: VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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Store To. You can then edit those copies further if you wish. Store menu When you are finished naming and assigning your Preset, simply press Store again to com- plete the operation. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
And of course, both methods can be combined: Use tapping to “get close” to the desired tempo and use the Preset footswitches for fine-tuning. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
Getting to know VL3X Using Global Tempo Depending on how you would like to manage tempo within VL3X, you can choose whether tempo information is recalled from each individ- ual Preset or managed globally. If you would like to store specific tempos within your Presets, simply set the tap tempo as de- scribed in “Tapping tempo”...
All the effect edit screens that you can access quick way to set up several effects to come on Switching off all effect blocks except for using these tabs have a similar structure. On or off when HIT is pressed. Harmony VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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Delay. depths of VL3X. All we can do is recommend that Try changing the Style of the newly activated you treat VL3X like any other instrument or skill ►...
Defining and using Global Effects How do Global Effects work? Tip: Keep your Global Preset safe Each effect in VL3X can load and use Global set- tings. Global settings make editing effects much easier and faster, but you need to understand First, you define a “Global Preset”...
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Use the Control Knob to scroll down to the ► “Global” parameter. It should say “Off”. Global set to Off in the Delay block Change it to “On” using the mix knob right be- ► low the parameter. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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Global Preset to the current Preset. are not prepared for it. Set Global for this effect to off again. ► This “breaks the link” between Global and current Preset, allowing you to modify the set- tings locally. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
To enable MIDI Tempo, navigate to the SETUP – MIDI menu and turn MIDI Tempo ON. Setup – MIDI menu VL3X can act as a MIDI Tempo slave only. It can- not generate or send MIDI Tempo. For more information, see “Looping and MIDI Sync”.
Backing Tracks”. The USB flash drive needs to be formatted us- VL3X can only import MP3 or WAV audio files. ing the FAT32 file system. NTFS, HFS+ (the OS X First, you will need to get your hands on a...
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Knob when this track is highlighted. A small ► “x” will appear next to each selected track. Press and HOLD the Control Knob to begin ► the import process. A confirmation dialogue will appear. ► VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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When the conversion is done, you can start using these tracks. This process can take a while. Please note that VL3X will NOT show up as a hard drive when connected to your computer. A USB flash drive must be used for Backing Track import.
Track will also be loaded. Press/hold of the Layer button now takes you to the Backing Track play- er instead of the Looper. You will also notice that the LOOPER and PRE- SET tabs disappear from the Looper button’s VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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Track Gain pa- left to right): rameter in each one. Backing Track Selection menu Backing Track list (right half of the screen): ► Use the Preset UP/DN footswitches to ► browse the available Backing Tracks. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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Disk icon: Save Sequence Recording Press again: Pause ► ► Undo icon: This is an (unlimited) Multi-layer Press again: Play ► ► Undo feature. Press & Hold: Stop and return to the begin- ► ning. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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Preset that you have assigned a Backing Track to. This is useful because you don’t have to sacrifice an effect footswitch in each Preset that has a Backing Track. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
This means that you can theoretically perform an entire song with just one touch of a button on your VL3X. To do so, you would simply press the track start button – and everything else happens as you recorded it into the sequence.
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In that case, we press and hold the RECORD button. suggest working on “just the vocals” or “just the guitar” first. Work your way through the song, fo- cusing on guitar or vocal effect changes. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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This will add any new button presses into the sequence while preserving existing ones. To de- activate Overdub mode, press and hold the RE- CORD button again. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
Use the far right MIX knob to select the desti- ► nation Preset location. Keep in mind that if you choose a Preset location that already contains Preset data (with or without a sequence) that Preset data will be overwritten. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
VL3X, making for a super easy performance about 2 seconds. video with good quality! Simply mute the camera audio in your editor and replace it with the VL3X audio. Just don’t call TC-Helicon for video edit- ing support… VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
Main Mix As you probably have realized by now, there is a lot going on under the hood of your VL3X. Wouldn’t it be great if you could control the levels Main Mix controls the sounds that come from the of the signals going in and out of VL3X? XLR Out and Guitar Out jacks.
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Controls the overall level of any voic- ► mix that is independent of what goes out to the Use the Headphone Limiter parameter to set the es generated by VL3X. This includes Harmony, XLR outputs. limiter level for the headphone output. Double and Choir.
Tips and tricks for working with layers and effects General Vocal & Guitar Layer usage As we discussed in “Concepts” and “Footswitch- es overview” , VL3X is comprised of three “Lay- ers”: Vocal, Guitar and Looper. The basic concepts of accessing effect settings...
► three situations: ger Buttonmap. If you assign Loop Trigger to a Earlier in the “VL3X overview”, we remapped a footswitch, you need to choose which loop and footswitch and changed the Mode from Latched “That darn button is in the wrong place! I hate which track you would like to trigger when you ►...
To achieve this effect, you would set Select the Footswitch Jack parameter and set ► your VL3X, you can define what the expression MinPos to something higher than 0% (try some- it from Switch-3 to Expression pedal. pedal should control in each Preset.
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Preset to other Presets in VL3X – and then use the Level Trim controls on the Preset tab for Vocal or Guitar to make ad- justments.
Editing the Vocal Layer Introduction Press the Vocal button to enter the Vocal edit screen. For more information about editing Style, Level, Control and other parameters associated with each effect, see “Editing an Effect”. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
Editing the Vocal Layer Harmony effect block / tab Harmony effect block parameters Tips and tricks for working Harmony is TC-Helicon’s most popular effect – with the Harmony effect and some might argue the most impressive one, too. The Harmony effect block has the following pa- rameters that allow you to adjust the effect: “Subtle”...
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(NaturalPlay) or defined by Keep in mind that when you are using mixed On the Buttonmap tab of the Setup menu, a fixed key and scale. In VL3X, you can define mode harmony, you will need to define the cor- ►...
Adding some “4 Voices Wide” Double effect ► ► Lead Level when using the Harmony effect can signifi- ► Global cantly enhance the “group” sound of the Har- ► mony voices, especially when using two or more Harmony voices. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
Ducking Amount ► Ducking Time ► Lead to Delay Level ► Panning ► Harmony to Delay Level ► µMod to Delay Level ► Choir to Delay Level ► Lead Level ► Width ► Trails ► VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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Filter Style parameter When using Delay on both your guitar and ► vocals, experiment with using the same OR different divisions on each Delay to crate in- teresting rhythmic landscapes. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
Listen to popular records ► from your favorite genre and analyze how they are using reverb. When using Reverb on both vocals and guitar, ► it can be useful to use the same settings or at VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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Editing the Vocal Layer least the same “Style” for each, so the listener gets the impression of vocals and guitar being in the same simulated physical space. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
► Note Select them at the time, just like today’s musicians do! ► Note Enable ► Global Here is an interesting article about the Beatles ► and their use of VariSpeed: ofbuckleyandbeatles.wordpress.com/ 2010/12/05/ beatles-production-tricks-part-ii-varispeed/ VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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Any time the HardTune effect is active, Glob- ► al Pitch Correction settings in the Setup menu are temporarily overwritten. When the HardTune effect is turned off, any settings from Global Pitch Correction will reactivate. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
► We have also included several “carrier” sounds into the microphone while Synth is active in VL3X, so you may use the Synth effect block can greatly increase the effectiveness of the without an instrument signal. sound. Elongating vowels and/or over-pro- nouncing consonants will really make the ef- fect stand out.
EQ filter effect can be very prone other genres. Transducer Style to feedback, so bear this in mind when con- ► Routing necting your VL3X to a 50,000 watt stadium ► Post Gain PA or the system at your local pub! ► Hit Control Use of Gate within the Transducer advanced ►...
Remember that 0 dB means “high volume” – ► not “no volume”! Most level controls max out at 0 dB, but a few ► – such as Guitar Trim in the Headphone Mix – can go higher. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
We have defined Choir as its own effect block in Choir Style ing too much Choir level can make the overall ► VL3X too, so you have extra control over the way Level output sound a bit robotic or “effected”. ►...
Editing the Vocal Layer Vocal Rhythmic effect block / tab Vocal Rhythmic effect Tips and tricks for working with Rhythmic effects use VL3X’s tempo to chop, block parameters the Vocal Rhythmic effect break up, pan or otherwise manipulate your voice in time with the music.
It can help to mimic the stutter sound with your lead voice while you do this. Phras- es like “yeah”, “nah-nah” etc. can work well. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
(Guitar) when they are off to remind you that pressing that footswitch will activate an effect from a different Layer. This is a good reminder showing you at a glance which in- ter-Layer remappings you have made. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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First, you need to select a particular Loop (slot) tempos, the other tempo-dependent effects in from which the Trigger should use tracks. your VL3X – such as Delay and Rhythmic – will change tempo to follow the newly activated loop. Next, you determine which Track or Tracks that particular footswitch will trigger when pressed.
Editing the Guitar Layer Introduction Press the Guitar button to enter the Guitar edit screen. For more information about editing Style, Level, Control and other parameters associated with each effect, see “Editing an Effect”. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
High Frequency Pre Gain ► Low Bandwidth Pre Gain ► Mid Bandwidth Pre Gain ► High Bandwidth Pre Gain ► Pre Gain* ► Adjusting Amp EQ settings Post Gain* ► Amp Mode (Tube/Transistor) ► Amp Sag ► VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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Tips and tricks for working with Amp simulation On some amplifiers, what is called “PreGain” ► and “PostGain” in VL3X is called “Gain” and “Volume” respectively. More PreGain results in more distortion at ► high levels. If you want a crunchy or distorted...
Editing the Guitar Layer Drive effect block / tab Drive effect block parameters Tips and tricks for working VL3X’s Drive effect can act as a Boost, Drive or with the Drive effect both. The Drive effect block has the following parame-...
► Feedback Right (Sorry for the less-than-awesome video quali- ► Feedback Right to Left ty on this one.) ► Low Cut Frequency ► High Cut Frequency ► Width ► Trails ► Global ► VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
► planted TC-Electronic’s popular Hall of Fame Decay section can help differentiate the solo from the ► Reverb pedal into VL3X’s Guitar Layer. Now you Level rest of the song. ► can enjoy the classic HoF sound alongside your Hit Control If you are playing very fast, heavy music you ►...
In studio recording, Compression is common on almost every track or group of tracks. Compression can raise the output level of your guitar – so be aware that it can also contribute to feedback. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
Wah-Bass sound. Sensitivity (only for Type = Touch) ► Response (only for Type = Touch) ► BPM (only for Type = Auto) ► Shape (only for Type = Auto) ► Order ► Global ► VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
Detune” can really enhance the sound of an ► pedal gurus – namely Tore Mogensen – to recre- Level acoustic guitar. ► ate two of their best modulation effects for VL3X: Hit Control Flanger creates a very “obvious” effect and ► ► Vortex Flanger and Corona Chorus.
. Your bass parts will sound mentations as well. You can blend your original much more convincing if you approach them guitar signal with a shifted signal to create some with a bass player’s ear. great sounds! VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
Delay and Rhyth- ► Target mic divisions for guitar and vocals. Converse- ► Depth ly, try different divisions to create more exotic ► Hit Control sounds. ► Division ► Type ► Global ► VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
Keep in mind that the Vocal and Guitar Button- map settings are independent of each other, rep- resenting the Vocal and Guitar layers respective- ly. To learn how you can create inter-Layer map- pings, see “Remapping a footswitch”. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
The Looper Introduction VL3X has a three-track Looper, which is an ex- tremely powerful performance tool. We have taken our experiences from past products – in- cluding VoiceLive Touch 2 and VoiceLive Play – to create our most exciting and flexible Looper ever.
Harmo- ny/HardTune in key. However, if you play chords on your guitar that are completely unrelated to the recorded loop audio, the system may get confused by conflict- ing information. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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Overdub is recorded. This prevents audio level overloading. Typically 98% is a good setting, but lower levels will allow you to creatively “morph” from one loop into something completely dif- ferent as older overdubs are “pushed down” in level. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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Loop is playing. This pre- during playback, the ODub will hold off until the vents the metronome from continuing after you track “comes around again” then will automati- press STOP. cally begin the ODub. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
Loop Track: In each Loop Slot (see be- ► low), VL3X allows you to store three separate Loops: Loop Track A, Loop Track B and Loop Track C. Depending on the setting you made in the Sync sub-menu (see “Sync sub-menu”), you...
“thumbnails” that show you what you have recorded. To exit Loop mode and return to the previously active Layer (Vocal or Guitar), press and hold the Layer button. Loop mode activated VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
Press the Home button. ► Move any of the MIX knobs to access the ► Mix page. Navigate to the Headphone Mix page using ► the Arrow buttons. Turn up the Metronome Level. ► VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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This is a great feature to use if you have rehearsed your loop performance and want to quickly build up loop components on top of one another Ready for overdubbing VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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If you record longer than one multiple, but less Next, let’s try Swap. than two, silence will fill in the gap. LOOP A LOOP A You will see the same Set+Play and Set+ODub ► options you saw when recording Loop Track VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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Loop Track C continues to play until it reach- dub (i.e., remove it from the Loop Track) – and if B and Loop Track C). es its end, then VL3X automatically switches you change your mind, you can restore it. to Loop B! We are still following our “Your first loop”...
For recording your vocals (with ef- ► fects) and your Guitar. Utility menu Guitar ► Aux: For recording the signal at your VL3X’s ► Aux jack. Voc: For recording your vocals (with effects). ► All: For recording vocals, guitar and the Aux ►...
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Please note the difference between MET OFF and MET MUTE: When you turn the Metro- nome off, VL3X’s LoopAssist™ no longer guides your recordings, and the Loop may fall “off time” with other time based effects like Delay or Rhythmic.
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When you have chosen a sound you like, press BACK. SMART Select SMART to use all features of VL3X’s Loo- pAssist™. LoopAssist™ chooses how and when to trim and extend loops, based on what you have already recorded.
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Our apologies for such a long list of steps – but When you choose SERIAL in the Sync sub- Just like SMART, QUANTIZE uses VL3X’s Loo- it’s probably best to see and hear the differenc- menu, Loops are played back one after the other, pAssist™...
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You can easily delete a single loop without hav- ing to go to the Erase sub-menu. While you are on the main Loop screen, simply press/hold the ODUB button for a Loop Track (Reverb or Harmony footswitches respectively). VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
GENRE button for two seconds. Look for “FREE LOOP STORAGE” to find out how much you have left. It should be a lot! Press any button to exit the “About” screen. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
You need to set that amount to zero! If you don’t, the output file could have a small “pad” of blank space automatically added, which will throw off the tempo guessing fea- ture and loop “tightness”. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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For example, if we wanted to import some drums a way that makes it easy for you to remember to Slot 20, Track B, Guitar and have VL3X name where they should be going in your VL3X. that loop file “Electrodrum”, the correct file name would be: Of course, you’ll find your own way of making...
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Once the files have finished importing, you’ll like- ly want to go and play around with them. Enter the Loop Layer and navigate to a Slot ► you’ve imported a loop to using the UTIL and Preset Up/Dn buttons. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
If you overdub a vocal or guitar (or aux) perfor- a Loop Slot? We sure don’t! ► mance on top of the drum loop that you just VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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– and it is still global. We just put it on the Loop Mix page for convenience. You’ll also find MET levels if you scroll down on the Loop Mix Page. Those levels are global as well. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
Press and hold the Control Knob to confirm ► and initiate export. If there’s a large number of Loops… it may be ► time to watch a few more X-File shows. Loop export tab VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
(Slot or Preset), how you save them and why. UTIL – Loop Slot submenu (the Backing Track tab is only available in VL3X) Let’s start by exploring the Looper UTIL menu. This submenu contains additional parameters that will be saved when you use the SAVE com- mand in the UTIL menu.
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– within the Loop Layer – to Preset 2, it won’t load Loop Slot 2. When you have finished your recording (still on Slot 1) you’ll need to move away from Preset 2 and back again in order to load Slot 2. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
Preset. Loop Triggers work the same way. You You can assign Loop Triggers A to H to VL3X can think of each Loop Trigger as a “pointer” to footswitches using the BUTTONMAP tab on the a specific Loop Slot/Track(s).
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That makes all of the Trigger assignments the same across all Presets. Global Triggers parameter Don’t forget to save your Preset (press STORE twice) after making changes to Loop Triggers. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
If you have not yet recorded a loop and are feed- record and play back loops in time with your ► ing MIDI Tempo to VL3X, the MET will be set to DAW audio tracks. the incoming tempo, and the loop will be record- ed at that tempo.
Setup Introduction Setup contains all of the system-wide parame- ters for VL3X. Each page or tab is described in its own section of this chapter. Tap the Setup button to enter the system ► menu. Tap the Arrow buttons to switch between the ►...
Mic Control. For more information, see “Mic light up. Control tab”. If you see the red LED light, turn Input Gain ► down until the red LED no longer lights. This is your optimal Input Gain setting. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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“what you sing” comes “out of the box” a split second later. For some, this latency is un- noticeable, for others, it’s distracting. Try the various modes to determine which one works best for the “feeling” and the resulting sound output. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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Aux Vocal Cancel parameter Monitor Level parameter Use the Aux Gain parameter to control the level When you activate Aux Vocal Cancel, VL3X will Use the Monitor Level parameter to control the of the signal received at the Aux input jack. If you...
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Parameter settings: ► VL3X will “listen” to the RoomSense micro- phones for Key/Scale information if no Guitar, MIDI or Aux signal is present. Off: ► VL3X will ignore any music “heard” by the RoomSense microphones. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
The dry channel does not contain HardTune ► effect(s). Dual Mono: ► The left XLR output jack carries the summed ► (with effects) mono vocal channel. The right XLR output jack carries the ► summed (with effects) mono guitar channel. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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This can be used as a “break mode”, if you’re away from the stage. Aux signals still pass to the outputs – so you can play “80’s TV Theme Trib- ute Band Volume 1” while you have a beer. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
► down until the red LED no longer lights. to acoustic guitars nice amplifier and want to maintain its “sound” This is your optimal Input Gain setting. relative to the guitar effects. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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XLR outputs. The XLR outputs always allow variations of guitar level via the mix screen, as long as no ¼” guitar outputs are con- nected. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
Use the Source parameter to determines which Use the MIDI Tempo parameter to ON to have MIDI input VL3X should use. VL3X follow the MIDI tempo from an external Use the Input Channel parameters to set the MIDI clock source, e.g. a DAW.
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These parameters are helpful if you would like (Input Channel Only) really low), the nearest octave note will be used VL3X to respond to certain types of information MIDI Note and Program Change messages are instead. For example, if you have set Transpose –...
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It is possible to define a specific area of your range that pitch bend information can affect the MIDI keyboard for VL3X to respond to. Use the keyboard for VL3X to respond to. Use the Split current note(s). This value is represented in semi- Split Note parameter to define a split point.
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Sysex ID parameter Use the Vibrato Boost parameter to set how Use the SysEx ID parameter to set the Sysex ID VL3X should process incoming MIDI modulation that is used for addressing devices. data. If you are using VoiceSupport for firmware up-...
Setup Tone tab Tone parameter De-ess parameter VL3X is equipped with a voice-optimized Tone block that applies Compression, EQ, Gating and a De-esser to the lead voice. The settings for Use the Tone parameter to switch the Tone block Use the De-ess parameter to adjust the amount these components are not stored as part of Pre- on or off.
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50 is the default. Parameter settings: Adaptive: Automatically adjusts compression ► settings as you sing. Manual: Compression settings are static and ► manually set. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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(automatic) and manual compression. dB over the “Threshold” value. Parameter settings: Off: No Gate is applied. ► Adaptive: The Gate is adjusted automatically. ► Manual: The Gate threshold can be set by ► the user. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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Parameter settings: the signals as specified by the Atten(uation) pa- rameters. Adaptive: Automatically adjusts equalization ► settings as you sing. Manual: Equalizer settings are static and ► manually set. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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(gain) or attenu- The default setting is 50. On, the equalization will sound warmer. ation that should be applied to the low, mid and high bands of the EQ. Parameter range: -12 to 12 dB. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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Use the Mid BW parameters to set the band- eters to set the frequencies of the low, mid and width of the EQ’s mid band. high bands of the EQ. Parameter range: Narrow, 0.11 to 8,77, Wide. Parameter range: 20 to 20480 Hz. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
Presets will be overridden as long as Global Tempo is On. For more information, see “Important: The link between the Global Preset and other Presets goes both ways”. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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In fact, if the audio received by the RoomSense mics has sufficient chord information, it can set Parameter settings: key/scale without other input. That means you can stop playing guitar or MIDI and have VL3X Auto: automatically start “listening to the band” for ►...
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HIT function. able settings are “Live” and “Tracks”. The default setting is 440 Hz. For more information, see “HIT – Dynamic versus Setting this parameter correctly improves Natu- Snapshot”. ralPlay chord detection. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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Setup Contrast parameter Mix Screen Time-out parameter Use the Contrast parameter to set VL3X’s dis- Use the Mix Screen Time-out parameter to set play contrast. the time, in seconds, that the mix screen is active before it automatically times out and the display Depending on the angle that you view the screen returns to the last used Layer.
Setup Mic Control and Footswitch tabs Every VL3X Preset has its own Buttonmap tabs, allowing you to remap the six effect footswitch- es (µMod, Delay, Reverb, HIT, Double / Comp and Harmony / Drive) both for the Vocal and the Gui- tar Layer.
(increment / decrement). ► Hold to change directions ► Tap to use Preset Down ► Repeat hold to change direction again ► Preset Step ► Hold to change Preset ► Tap for STEP ► VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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Momentary: The assigned effect is on only ► when you keep the Mic switch pressed. For more information, see “Change a button from Latched to Momentary mode”. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
► G HIT ► G Comp ► G Drive ► G Amp ► G Rhythm ► G Octaver ► G Wah ► G Mute ► All HIT ► Looper** ► Loop Input Cycle ► VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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Step Button Mode parameter Footswitch jack parameter Use the Step Button Mode parameter to set the You can use the Footswitch jack on your VL3X operation mode of the Step button. to connect either a TC-Helicon Switch-3, a Switch-6 or a second expression pedal.
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G Delay + Reverb Level Getting the most out of your expression pedal”. ► G Rhythmic Depth ► G Rhythmic Division ► G Amp Post Gain ► G Amp Pre Gain ► G Level ► G Pan ► VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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► G µMod (G = Guitar) If you have connected an (optional) Switch-3 or ► G Delay Switch-6 to your VL3X, you can use it to control ► G Reverb some functions for Track A of the Looper. ► G HIT ►...
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FOOTSW MODE parameters Use the (three or six) Mode parameters below the FOOTSW parameters to set the operation modes of the footswitches on a TC-Helicon Switch-3 or Switch-6 connected to your VL3X. Latched: Tap the footswitch on your Switch-3 ►...
Setup Pedal Calibration tab For more information on pedal calibration, see “Calibrating your expression pedal”. VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
VL3X, including: Installed Firmware Version ► Serial Number ► Manufacture Date ► This information is valuable if you ever need to contact TC-Helicon support. Make sure you provide this information when creating a support incident! VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
Appendix System Maintenance/Factory Reset Entering System Maintenance Mode Updating the firmware You can boot VL3X in a special System Mainte- using a USB flash drive nance that will allow you to perform several sys- tem maintenance functions, including a factory Turn off your VL3X.
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5 lb. (2.3 kg) CONSTRUCTION Anodized extruded aluminum and steel chassis Rubberized edit/mix knobs Recessed rubberized handle 192 x 64 blue STN LCD, white backlight display Tri-colored Footswitch Light ring Capacitive touch edit controls with LED indicators VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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24 Bit, 128 x oversampling bitstream, 115 dB SNR A-weighted Guitar Connectors 1/4“ TRS phone jack Output Impedance Balanced/Unbalanced 442/221 Ohm Output Range 0 dBFS Line Level: +14 dBu; Mic Level: -2dBu Dynamic Range >105 dB, 20 Hz to 20 kHz note VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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1/8“ Mini stereo jack, 50 Ohm, +14 dBu max Guitar thru Buffered Guitar Input Connector 1/4“ TRS phone jack Output Impedance Bal/UnBal 270/540 Ohms Monitor thru Direct connection to Monitor input Connector: Balanced XLR VL3X – Reference manual (updated 2015-07-16)
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MIDI In/Out 5 Pin DIN Pedal 1/4“ TRS phone jack Mic Control Using TC-Helicon MP-75, TC-Helicon MP-76 or Sennheiser e 835 fx microphone SAFETY AND REGULATIONS POWER External Power Supply Mains Voltage 100 to 240 VAC, 50 to 60 Hz (auto-select) Power Consumption <...
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Cerco le scale impostate delle tonalità maj 1 maj 2 maj 3 min 1 ecc, a quali corrispondono?