12
1.4 The effect algorithms
In a digital effects device all effect programs are based on algorithms computed by a Digital Signal Processor
(DSP). How does this work? A DSP can perform an enormous number of binary computations in a minimum
amount of time. The binary computations that are used to generate an effect as part of a program are deter-
mined by a so-called algorithm which represents a rule for computing numerical values that are exactly speci-
fied for each effect type. For example, tube distortion algorithms differ from chorus algorithms in their program-
ming. Plainly speaking: each effect is based on a specific algorithm which processes the input signal (previ-
ously converted from analog to digital). All of this work is done by the DSP. Once the effect has been generated
and added to the input signal, the digital music signal is converted back to analog by means of a D/A converter.
Ultra Phaser
A phaser is one of the MODULIZER PROs classic modulation effects. It is quite popular for guitar sounds and
keyboard pads, but was also extensively used during the 70s for other instruments, such as electric pianos.
From a technical point of view, a phaser is a modulation effect producing a multi-stage phase shift between the
direct and effect signals, which results in a modulated comb filter effect. Depending on how they are set up,
phasers can be used to slightly modulate or heavily distort the signal spectrum. Consequently, the sound they
produce is a bit like that of a regularly modulated filter. Although most often used as a single-instrument effect,
there are well-known examples when phasers are used on mix signals, so do not hesitate to experiment with
it.
The parameters of the phaser:
VARIATION: Speed: determines the LFO speed between 0 (see following
Note
) and 9.9 Hz.
EDIT A: Intensity: adjusts the number of all-pass filters.
EDIT B: Depth: is used to set the modulation depth.
EDIT C: Feedback: determines how much of the output signal is fed back to the input.
+
When the LFO is set to zero, the modulation stops and can be set manually or via MIDI. To
adjust it manually press EDIT A and EDIT B simultaneously. To control it via MIDI you can use
controller # 56. If control send is activated, the MODULIZER PRO sends the actual LFO state,
again using controller # 56. When the LFO is started again it begins on that same value. This
applies to all effect algorithms in which a LFO is used, except the Ultra Chorus.
Spatial Phaser
As its name implies, this is basically a phaser which produces an impressive stereo effect by giving the sound
room and transparency. It is so to speak a high-tech version of the classical phasing effect. The editable
parameters are identical to those of the phaser.
Exciter
The
exciter
adds artificially produced harmonics to the original signal, increases its presence and loudness
(the subjectively perceived volume), but does not raise the signal in level.
The parameters:
VARIATION: HP-Shape: allows for raising the levels of the frequencies around the adjusted threshold.
EDIT A: Tune: varies the frequency above which the exciter produces harmonics.
EDIT B: Harmonics: this parameter enables you to adjust the intensity of the generated harmonics.
+
As the tonal results produced with exciters are initially quite impressive, a common mistake is
to overdo the effect.
1. INTRODUCTION
All manuals and user guides at all-guides.com