User manual ALESIS NANOVERB

[. . . ] ALESIS NanoVerb Reference Manual Introduction Thank you for purchasing the Alesis NanoVerb Effects Processor. To take full advantage of the NanoVerb's functions, and to enjoy long and trouble-free use, please read this user's manual carefully. How To Use This Manual This manual is divided into the following sections describing the various modes of the NanoVerb. Though we recommend you take time to read through the entire manual once carefully, those having general knowledge about effects devices should use the table of contents to reference specific functions. Chapter 1: Your First Session with the NanoVerb. [. . . ] But if other instruments will be added to the mix later, or levels are unpredictable (as in a live show), leave yourself additional headroom by turning the input level down a bit more. Depending on the input sensitivity of the mixer's channels or Aux Returns, the [OUTPUT] knob of the NanoVerb should be set somewhere between "2:00" and fully clockwise ("5:00"). Turn up the AUX RETURN level until you get the desired level of effect in the mix. The one control in the chain that may need to be set to a low level is the Aux Return (or channel) on the mixer itself. Here is where you should increase or decrease the overall effect level in the mix, for best low-noise performance. If you want "just a hint" of reverb, don't turn down the send to the Nanoverb; turn down the Aux Return. Leave the input levels where they were set in step 4, unless you see the [SIGNAL] LED flash. Using Inserts If your mixer features individual channel inserts, you can dedicate the NanoVerb to a specific channel on the mixer. Insert jacks on the back of a mixer provide a way of "inserting" external processing equipment into the signal path. The insert occurs after the input amplifier, and before the channel fader; essentially it is the same as connecting the source (instrument or microphone) into the NanoVerb before the mixer's channel input. However, some mixing console's inserts come after the EQ section, and may therefore be different from the original signal. If nothing is connected to the channel's Insert jack, the signal passes through with no effect. Usually, insert connections require a special, stereo-splitting Y-cord to be connected (one stereo plug provides both send and return while two mono plugs connect separately to the effects unit's input and output). These are known as TRS connectors (tip-ring-sleeve). The tip of the stereo plug carries the send or output of the insert jack, while the ring carries back the return. The sleeve represents a common ground for both signals. This involves connecting a 1/4" TRS (tip-ring-sleeve) Y-cable to the Insert jack of a single channel on a mixing console. The other end of the cable (which splits into two, 1/4" mono connectors) are connected to the [LEFT] input and [LEFT] output, respectively. If you do not hear any audio after making these connections, swap the input and output cables at the NanoVerb, as these may be wired backwards. If the cable is color-coded, usually the red jack represents the send (which connects to the NanoVerb's input) and black is the return (which connects to the output). 16 NanoVerb Reference Manual Connections ­ Chapter 2 Once the proper connection has been made, you must set the desired "wet/dry" balance using the NanoVerb's [MIX] control. The [INPUT] and [OUTPUT] controls of the NanoVerb should be set for unity gain: the volume when the Insert jack is plugged in the mixer should be approximately the same as when the NanoVerb is out of the circuit. MIXER INSERT LEFT INPUT LEFT OUTPUT Using Main Outputs When you want to add effects to everything on the mixer, you can connect the NanoVerb between the mixer's outputs and the amplifier's or tape machine's inputs. This is done by using two 1/4" mono cables to connect the Left and Right Main Outputs of the mixing console to the [LEFT/MONO] and [RIGHT] inputs of the NanoVerb. The [LEFT] and [RIGHT] outputs of the NanoVerb are then connected to a stereo amplifier, or two input channels of another mixing console (for sub-mixing applications). NanoVerb Reference Manual 17 Chapter 2 ­ Connections LEFT INPUT RIGHT INPUT LEFT MASTER OUT RIGHT MASTER OUT LEFT OUTPUT RIGHT OUTPUT MIXER POWER AMP Using the NanoVerb with a Powered Mixer You can dramatically improve the sound quality of a powered mixer by connecting a digital effects units such as the NanoVerb to it in the same way you would connect it to a regular mixer, with one important note: J Never connect an output intended for a loudspeaker (the power amplifier output) to the input of the NanoVerb. [. . . ] Output level is too low and Aux Return on mixer is up full. Bypass function is on with Mix turned 100% wet. Unit does not respond to front panel controls. Unknown software conflict, cosmic rays, or static electricity. Maintenance/Service Cleaning Disconnect the AC cord, then use a damp cloth to clean the NanoVerb's metal and plastic surfaces. [. . . ]