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. A basic introduction on operating the NanoVerb, auditioning the factory programs, and adjusting levels. [. . . ] For example, if you connected sends 3 and 4 to the [LEFT] and [RIGHT] inputs, and had a stereo instrument (such as a keyboard) connected to two channel inputs of the mixer (either one panned hard left and hard right), you would send the left channel to send 3 and the right channel to send 4. This is especially useful on the true stereo chorus program; on reverb and delay programs only a mono input is needed. LEFT INPUT RIGHT INPUT AUX SEND 1 AUX SEND 2 LEFT OUTPUT RIGHT OUTPUT AUX RETURNS OR INPUT CHANNELS MIXER How to Set Aux Send and Return Levels on the Mixer NanoVerb Reference Manual 15 Chapter 2 ­ Connections In the above hookups, you must set correct levels on the mixer's individual Aux Sends, Aux Masters, and Aux Return masters (as well as the NanoVerb's own controls) to get good, clean, quiet results. J Improper level setting is the most common cause of noise and distortion problems. By having the correct level at every point in the send/return chain, you avoid distortion by overloading and avoid noise. The most common mistake with effect units like the NanoVerb is to have too low a level at the input, then crank up the output to get the effects level desired. Here is a procedure that will give good results with most standard equipment: 1. Set your mixer's input levels correctly, following the instructions for the mixer. Turn up the mixer channels' AUX SEND and AUX MASTERS (if applicable) to a nominal level (this is usually between "noon" and "3:00" on a rotary knob). Turn up the NanoVerb's [INPUT] level until you see the [SIGNAL] LED turn red on peaks; then reduce it slightly until the red doesn't flash. The ideal input level, for optimum noise performance, is just below clipping. 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). The tip of the stereo plug carries the send or output of the insert jack, while the ring carries back the return. This involves connecting a 1/4" TRS (tip-ring-sleeve) Y-cable to the Insert jack of a single channel on a mixing console. [. . . ] If the Footswitch is pressed again, effects output will continue. Input (Left/Mono & Right) These are 1/4" unbalanced phone jacks which connect to sources such as the effects sends of mixing consoles. They may be used with nominal input levels from -20dBV (guitar level) to +4dBu. This means that when nothing is plugged into the [RIGHT] input jack, the signal present at the [LEFT/MONO] input is routed to the [RIGHT] as well. Output (Left & Right) These are 1/4" unbalanced phone jacks which connect to devices such as the effects returns on a mixing console or power amplifier inputs. For mono applications, use the [LEFT] output. 26 NanoVerb Reference Manual Troubleshooting ­ Chapter 5 CHAPTER 5 TROUBLESHOOTING Troubleshooting Index If you experience problems while operating the NanoVerb, please use the following table to locate possible causes and solutions before contacting Alesis Product Support for assistance. Symptom Cause Solution Check that the power cable is plugged in properly. [. . . ]