Alesis ANDROMEDA A6 User manual

1 6 - V O I C E R E A L A N A L O G S Y N T H E S I Z E R
REFERENCE
MANUAL
For Software Version 1.40

ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL 1
Your shipping carton should contain the
following items:
1. Andromeda A6 synthesizer
2. AC power cable
3. Sustain Pedal
4. Reference Manual
If anything is missing, please contact your dealer or Alesis immediately.
Alesis contact information:
Alesis Studio Electronics, Inc.
Los Angeles
USA
E-Mail: [email protected]
Website: http://www.alesis.com
Alesis Andromeda A6TM Reference Manual
Revision 1.0 by Dave Bertovic
Revision 1.1 by Brian R. Shim
© Copyright 2001, Alesis Studio Electronics, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or
in part is prohibited. “A6”, “QCard” and “FreeLoader” are trademarks of Alesis Studio
Electronics, Inc.

2ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL

Contents
ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL 3
CONTENTS
Important Safety Instructions ....................................................................................7
Instructions to the User (FCC Notice) ............................................................................................11
CE Declaration of Conformity .........................................................................................................13
Introduction ................................................................................................................ 15
How to Use this Manual....................................................................................................................16
Typographic Conventions..................................................................................................17
Key Terminology ................................................................................................................................18
Chapter 1: Getting Started ........................................................................................ 21
What You’ll Need, Unpacking, Set Up, Power .............................................................................21
Audio Connections and Pedals........................................................................................................22
MIDI Connections...............................................................................................................................23
Quick Start............................................................................................................................................26
Chapter 2: Playing the A6 .........................................................................................29
A Brief Tour of the Front Panel........................................................................................................30
How Functions are Grouped.............................................................................................30
Interacting with the Display .............................................................................................................32
Selecting Programs and Mixes .........................................................................................................38
PROGRAM Mode Parameters...........................................................................................39
MIX Mode Parameters........................................................................................................39
Storing Edited Programs and Mixes ...............................................................................................43
Setting Up Splits and Layers ............................................................................................................47
Using Global Mode.............................................................................................................................49
GLOBAL Mode Parameters...............................................................................................49
Master Controls...................................................................................................................................52
Volume...................................................................................................................................52
Tune........................................................................................................................................52
The Keyboard and Keyboard Modes..............................................................................................54
Performance Features (KBD MODE, UNISON X, DETUNE) .....................................55
Portamento............................................................................................................................59
The Performance Wheels and Ribbon Controller.........................................................................65
Programming the Wheels and Ribbon.............................................................................66
Pedals and Footswitches ....................................................................................................68
The CLOCK Section............................................................................................................................69
Clock Parameters .................................................................................................................70
Sequencer ..............................................................................................................................71
Arpeggiator...........................................................................................................................79
Chapter 3: Basics of Analog Synthesis ...................................................................81
An Overview of Synthesis.................................................................................................................81
Analog and Digital Technologies .....................................................................................81
A Little History ....................................................................................................................81
A Little Theory ...................................................................................................................................82
Waveforms............................................................................................................................82
Fundamentals and Harmonics..........................................................................................83
Sound Dynamics.................................................................................................................................84
LFOs .......................................................................................................................................87
Components of an Analog Synthesizer ..........................................................................................88

Contents
4ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL
Chapter 4: Overview of the Andromeda A6 ..........................................................93
A Few Basic Concepts........................................................................................................................93
A6 Function List..................................................................................................................................95
A6 Functions At-a-Glance .................................................................................................................97
MIDI Overview .................................................................................................................................102
Chapter 5: Oscillators and Filters...........................................................................103
Oscillators...........................................................................................................................................103
Oscillator Parameter Descriptions..................................................................................104
VCO Modulation ...............................................................................................................107
Filters...................................................................................................................................................116
What Filters Do ..................................................................................................................116
How Filters Are Designed................................................................................................117
How Filters Work ..............................................................................................................122
Filter Parameter Descriptions..........................................................................................127
Chapter 6: Modulation and Envelopes ................................................................. 131
Modulation.........................................................................................................................................131
Background.........................................................................................................................131
Modulation Principles ......................................................................................................131
Hardware and Software Modulation, Default Mod Paths ........................................133
Envelopes ...........................................................................................................................................134
Envelope Properties ..........................................................................................................134
Envelope Parameter Descriptions ..................................................................................135
TIME Page Parameters......................................................................................................137
SHAPE: Selecting the Stage Slope .................................................................................139
LEVEL Page Parameters ..................................................................................................141
TRIG Page Parameters .....................................................................................................142
Envelope Modes (Norm 1 & 2, Freerun, Susrel) ..........................................................144
Envelope Modulation Triggering (MODTRG).............................................................153
How Modulation Triggering Works .............................................................................155
DYN Page Parameters ......................................................................................................158
LOOP Page Parameters ....................................................................................................160
MOD Pages .........................................................................................................................164
Envelope Examples ...........................................................................................................165
Chapter 7: LFOs, Sample & Hold and Process..................................................... 171
Low Frequency Oscillators .............................................................................................................171
LFO Parameter Descriptions ...........................................................................................171
WAVE Page ........................................................................................................................172
TRIG Page ...........................................................................................................................175
SYNC Page ..........................................................................................................................176
MOD Page...........................................................................................................................176
Using LFOs as a Trigger Source......................................................................................176
Sample and Hold ..............................................................................................................................177
PROCESS Module.............................................................................................................................179
Tracking Generator (TGEN) ............................................................................................179
Track Gen Level and Track Gen Step.............................................................................179
Tracking Generator Parameter Descriptions................................................................180
Chapter 8: The A6 Mixing System ........................................................................183
Pre Filter Mix/Post Filter Mix ........................................................................................................183
Pre Filter Mix Overview ..................................................................................................................183
Pre Filter Mix Operation..................................................................................................................184
OSC and SUB OSC Controls............................................................................................184
RING MOD Control ..........................................................................................................184
NOISE/EXTERNAL Control...........................................................................................185
Signal Routing through the Filters .................................................................................187

Contents
ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL 5
Post Filter Mix Overview ................................................................................................................189
Post Filter Mix Operation................................................................................................................189
Voice Mix.............................................................................................................................190
MAIN and AUX outputs..................................................................................................190
Setting Levels in Mix Mode .............................................................................................190
Individual VOICE OUTPUT............................................................................................190
Chapter 9: Custom Modulations ............................................................................. 191
MOD Functions Overview..............................................................................................................191
Avoid duplication with hard-wired mods....................................................................191
Performance control of mods ..........................................................................................192
Using the Modulation Matrix..........................................................................................192
A Few Ground Rules.........................................................................................................197
The Control Routes Section.............................................................................................................198
To change modulation amounts using the CROUTES page: ....................................198
To change the source of a Control Route: .....................................................................199
About Signal Flow in a MOD Path................................................................................................200
About Modulation Sources.............................................................................................................201
Chapter 10: Using Effects ....................................................................................... 203
Introduction .......................................................................................................................................203
Signal Flow..........................................................................................................................203
Basic Controls .....................................................................................................................203
Analog Distortion ..............................................................................................................204
Editing Digital Effects ......................................................................................................................205
To select a Digital Effects Configuration Type:............................................................205
Editing Effect Parameters................................................................................................................206
Choosing a Parameter Page .............................................................................................206
Changing an Individual Parameter................................................................................206
MOD: Modulating Effects Send/Output ......................................................................207
Tutorial: How to Edit a Reverb .....................................................................................................208
Set the Type and Audio Levels .......................................................................................208
Set the Reverb's Decay and Tone....................................................................................208
Set the Reverb Predelay....................................................................................................209
Change the Tone of the Reverb Decay...........................................................................209
Adjust the Mix....................................................................................................................210
Digital Effects Architecture.............................................................................................................211
The Signal Flow Through the Effects Section...............................................................211
Single....................................................................................................................................211
Dual Effects: Parallel .........................................................................................................212
Dual Effects: Mono ............................................................................................................213
Multi Chain.........................................................................................................................214
Configurations & Parameter Descriptions...................................................................................215
Reverbs ................................................................................................................................215
Delays...................................................................................................................................220
Pitch Effects.........................................................................................................................222
Table of Digital Effects Parameters ...............................................................................................227
Chapter 11: Mix Mode ..............................................................................................243
What is a Mix? ...................................................................................................................................243
Mix Channels vs. MIDI Channels...................................................................................243
Common Mix Settings for MIDI Sequencers...............................................................................244
To make a custom multitimbral Mix:.............................................................................244
MIDI Program Change Messages...................................................................................245
Editing Programs from Mix Mode ................................................................................................245
Mix SOLO............................................................................................................................245

Contents
6ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL
To copy a Mix Channel from another Mix:...................................................................245
Effects in Mix Mode..........................................................................................................................246
To set effect send levels for different Mix Channels: ..................................................246
To copy an effect from another Program or Mix: ........................................................246
Chapter 12: MIDI Functions .....................................................................................247
MIDI Basics ........................................................................................................................................247
MIDI Hardware..................................................................................................................247
MIDI Messages...................................................................................................................248
To send an individual Program or Mix out as a MIDI System Exclusive
dump:...................................................................................................................................253
To send an entire Program or Mix Bank out as a MIDI System Exclusive
dump:...................................................................................................................................254
About receiving SysEx dumps: .......................................................................................254
MIDI and the A6 Andromeda ........................................................................................................255
A6 Channel Messages: Multitimbral Sequencing.......................................................255
Setting MIDI Parameters in Global Mode.....................................................................256
Appendix A: Glossary ..............................................................................................259
Appendix B: Table of Mod Sources .......................................................................261
Appendix C: Troubleshooting .................................................................................265
The Auto Tune Display ...................................................................................................................265
How to Use the Tune Display ........................................................................................................266
Upgrading the Operating System..................................................................................................268
Troubleshooting Chart.....................................................................................................................270
Cleaning and Maintenance .............................................................................................................272
Appendix D: Specifications .....................................................................................273
MIDI Implementation Chart...........................................................................................................273
Specifications .....................................................................................................................................274
Appendix E: Warranty ............................................................................................. 275
Index .........................................................................................................................277

Important Safety Instructions
ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL 7
IMPORTANT SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS
SAFETY SYMBOLS USED IN THIS
PRODUCT
This symbol alerts the user that there are important operating and
maintenance instructions in the literature accompanying this unit.
This symbol warns the user of uninsulated voltage within the unit
that can cause dangerous electric shocks.
PLEASE FOLLOW THESE PRECAUTIONS
WHEN USING THIS PRODUCT:
1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with a damp cloth. Do not spray any liquid cleaner onto the
faceplate, as this may damage the front panel controls or cause a dangerous
condition.
7. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves,
or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized plug on the AC power
adapter. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. The
wide blade is provided for your safety. When the provided plug does not fit
into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at
plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the
apparatus.
11. Use only attachments or accessories specified by the manufacturer.

Important Safety Instructions
8ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL
12. Use only with a cart, stand, bracket, or table designed for use with
professional audio or music equipment. In any installation, make sure that
injury or damage will not result from cables pulling on the apparatus and its
mounting. If a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus
combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long
periods of time.
14. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when
the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as when the power-
supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have
fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture,
does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
15. This unit produces heat when operated normally. Operate in a well-
ventilated area.
16. This product, in combination with an amplifier and headphones or speakers,
may be capable of producing sound levels that could cause permanent
hearing loss. Do not operate for a long period of time at a high volume level
or at a level that is uncomfortable. If you experience any hearing loss or
ringing in the ears, you should consult an audiologist.
17. WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this
apparatus to rain or moisture.

Important Safety Instructions
ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL 9
INSTRUCTIONS DE SÉCURITÉ IMPORTANTES
(FRENCH)
SYMBOLES UTILISÉS DANS CE PRODUIT
Ce symbole alèrte l’utilisateur qu’il existe des instructions de
fonctionnement et de maintenance dans la documentation jointe
avec ce produit.
Ce symbole avertit l’utilisateur de la présence d’une tension non
isolée à l’intérieur de l’appareil pouvant engendrer des chocs
électriques.
VEUILLEZ SUIVRE CES PRÉCAUTIONS LORS DE
L’UTILISATION DE L’APPAREIL:
1. Lisez ces instructions.
2. Gardez ces instructions.
3. Tenez compte de tous les avertissements.
4. Suivez toutes les instructions.
5. N’utilisez pas cet allareil à proximité de l’eau.
6. Ne nettoyez qu’avec un chiffon humide. Ne pas vaporiser de liquide nettoyant
sur l’appareil, cela pourrait abîmer les contrôles de la face avant ou engendrer
des conditions dangeureuses.
7. Installez selon les recommandations du constructeur.
8. Ne pas installer à proximilé de sources de chaleur comme radiateurs, cuisinière
ou autre appareils (don’t les amplificateurs) produisant de la chaleur.
9. Ne pas enlever la prise de terre du cordon secteur. Une prise murale avec terre
deux broches et une troisièrme reliée à la terre. Cette dernière est présente pour
votre sécurité. Si le cordon secteur ne rentre pas dans la prise de courant,
demandez à un électricien qualifié de remplacer la prise.
10. Evitez de marcher sur le cordon secteur ou de le pincer, en particulier au niveau
de la prise, et aux endroits où il sor de l’appareil.
11. N’utilisez que des accessoires spécifiés par le constructeur.
12. N’utilisez qu’avec un stand, ou table conçus pour l’utilisation d’audio
professionnel ou instruments de musique. Dans toute installation, veillez de ne
rien endommager à cause de câbles qui tirent sur des appareils et leur support.
13. Débranchez l’appareil lors d’un orage ou lorsqu’il n’est pas utilisé pendant
longtemps.

Important Safety Instructions
10 ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL
14. Faites réparer par un personnel qualifié. Une réparation est nécessaire lorsque
l’appareil a été endommagé de quelque sorte que ce soit, par exemple losrque le
cordon secteur ou la prise sont endommagés, si du liquide a coulé ou des objets
se sont introduits dans l’appareil, si celui-ci a été exposé à la pluie ou à
l’humidité, ne fonctionne pas normalement ou est tombé.
15. Cet appareil produit de la chaleur en fonctionnement normal.
16. Ce produit, utilisé avec un amplificateur et un casque ou des enceintes, est
capable de produite des niveaux sonores pouvant engendrer une perte
permanente de l’ouïe. Ne l’utilisez pas pendant longtemps à un niveau sonore
élevé ou à un niveau non confortable. Si vous remarquez une perte de l’ouïe ou
un bourdonnement dans les oreilles, consultez un spécialiste.

Important Safety Instructions
ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL 11
BEIM BENUTZEN DIESES PRODUKTES BEACHTEN
SIE BITTE DIE FOLGENDEN SICHERHEITSHINWEISE:
(GERMAN)
1. Lesen Sie die Hinweise.
2. Halten Sie sich an die Anleitung.
3. Beachten Sie alle Warnungen.
4. Beachten Sie alle Hinweise.
5. Bringen Sie das Gerät nie mit Wasser in Berührung.
6. Verwenden Sie zur Reinigung nur ein weiches Tuch. Sprühen Sie keine flüssiger
Reiniger auf die Oberfläche, dies könnte zur Beschädigung der Vorderseite
führen und auch weitere Schäden verursachen.
7. Halten Sie sich beim Aufbau des Gerätes an die Angaben des Herstellers.
8. Stellen Sie das Gerät nich in der Nähe von Heizkörpern, Heizungsklappen oder
anderen Wärmequellen (einschließlich Verstärkern) auf.
9. Verlegen Sie das Netzkabel des Gerätes niemals so, daß man darüber stolpern
kann oder daß es gequetscht wird.
10. Benutzen Sie nur das vom Hersteller empfohlene Zubehör.
11. Verwenden Sie ausschließlich Wagen, Ständer, oder Tische, die speziell für
professionelle Audio- und Musikinstrumente geeignet sind. Achten Sie immer
darauf, daß die jeweiligen Geräte sicher installiert sind, um Schäden und
Verletzungen zu vermeiden. Wenn Sie einen Rollwagen benutzen, achten Sie
darauf, das dieser nicht umkippt, um Verletzungen auszuschließen.
12. Ziehen Sie während eines Gewitters oder wenn Sie das Gerät über einen
längeren Zeitraum nicht benutzen den Netzstecher aus der Steckdose.
13. Die Wartung sollte nur durch qualifiziertes Fachpersonal erfolgen. Die Wartung
wird notwendig, wenn das Gerät beschädigt wurde oder aber das Stromkabel
oder der Stecker, Gegenstände oder Flüssigkeit in das Gerät gelangt sind, das
Gerät dem Regen oder Feuchtigkeit ausgesetzt war und deshalb nicht mehr
normal arbeitet oder heruntergefallen ist.
14. Bei normalem Betrieb des Gerätes kommt es zu Wärmeentwicklungen.
15. Dieses Produkt kann in Verbindung mit einem Verstärker und Kopfhörern oder
Lautsprechern Lautstärkepegel erzeugen, die anhaltende Gehörschäden
verursachen. Betreiben Sie es nicht über längere Zeit mit hoher Lautstärke oder
einem Pegel, der Ihnen unangenehm is. Wenn Sie ein Nachlassen des Gehörs
oder ein Klingeln in den Ohren feststellen, sollten Sie einen Ohrenarzt aufsuchen.

Important Safety Instructions
12 ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL
INSTRUCTIONS TO THE USER
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a class B
digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to
provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential
installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy
and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that
interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause
harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by
turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try and correct the
interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which
the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
This equipment has been verified to comply with the limits for a class B computing
device, pursuant to FCC Rules. In order to maintain compliance with FCC
regulations, shielded cables must be used with this equipment. Operation with non-
approved equipment or unshielded cables is likely to result in interference to radio
and TV reception. The user is cautioned that changes and modifications made to the
equipment without the approval of manufacturer could void the user’s authority to
operate this equipment.

Important Safety Instructions
ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL 13
CE DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
Please see the Alesis website, www.alesis.com, for the CE Declaration of Conformity

Important Safety Instructions
14 ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL

Introduction
ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL 15
INTRODUCTION
There was a time when most of us thought that analog synthesis was dead. Yeah,
there were a few new analog instruments – and rather decent ones, at that – that have
come and gone over the past few years. They were glimmers of hope that the robust,
full and rich sounds of the analogs could peacefully co-exist with the digitals. I was
excited that a handful of manufacturers were still “carrying the ball” and believed
that there will always be a place in the music world for a great analog synth. But for
some reason, these instruments – as good as they are – seem to be a little lacking in
many respects.
Then I was introduced to the Andromeda A6. Simply stated, this box has more
features and music power per square inch than any other synthesizer I’ve owned.
And I’ve owned a bunch of them, starting with an obscure little monophonic
instrument called the MiniMoog®in 1973. To me, the A6 represents the next
significant step in the development of musical instruments that celebrate this
technology.
The Andromeda A6 starts out with 16 of the most elaborate synthesizer voices to
date, and these voices sound absolutely wonderful. The attention to detail applied as
Alesis Engineering researched the great analog synths of the past has paid off in
producing an instrument that has the world-class analog sound, complete with every
nuance. There’s nothing “virtual” about the A6: it is a real analog synthesizer.
This synthesizer has more modulation and control functionality than most players
can fully use in a lifetime. It has an studio-quality effects system, an elaborate MIDI
system and one of the most logical and useful displays on the market. Add to that an
Arpeggiator, a classic 16-event Sequencer, a Ribbon controller and CV inputs, and
you have an analog powerhouse with all of the tools — and all of the toys.
Last, but certainly not least, the A6 is gorgeous. And its striking layout and front
panel artwork is every bit as functional as it is beautiful.
We’ve just touched on the some of the highlights of this product; there’s much more
to be explored. After you’ve read through this Reference, and experienced the sound
and feel of the A6, I’m confident that you will be every bit as excited about it as I am.
There will always be a place in the music world for a great analog synth.
Dave Bertovic
Winter 2001

Introduction
16 ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL
HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL
STRUCTURE
This manual was designed to take you through the A6 in a logical order of topics.
This way, anyone who is new to this type of instrument can read through the book
from front to back and get the most basic information first. The manual progressively
deals with more complex topics as you read through to the end. Experienced users
can simply use this manual as a reference resource, browsing through the topics as
needed. An Index is provided at the end of the manual for quick referrals to specific
subjects or problems. The Appendices provide technical information about the A6.
The Chapters can be grouped into five categories of information:
Overview – Chapters 1 and 2
Chapter 1 is your basic introduction to the A6, from getting it out of the box, setting it
up and plugging it in to making simple audio and MIDI connections, and hooking
up pedals and footswitches.
Once you get everything connected, Chapter 2 takes you on a detailed tour of the A6.
This Chapter runs you through the most commonly used performance features of the
unit, including a discussion of how the display works and how to select sounds.
We’ll also take a good look at Master Volume and Tune, the keyboard and its modes,
Portamento, the Sequencer and Arpeggiator, the two performance Wheels and the
Ribbon Controller.
Synthesis and the A6 – Chapters 3 and 4
This section of the manual starts out with Chapter 3 giving you a broad background
of analog synthesis, including some history and acoustic theory. All of this is then
applied to a generic analog synthesizer to illustrate the electronic counterparts of a
sound’s components.
If you are new to analog synthesis, we strongly recommend that you read this
Chapter in its entirety. What you will learn here will help the rest of the manual
make sense.
Where Chapter 3 provides you with concepts, Chapter 4 brings it all home to the A6.
Here, you’ll learn how the A6’s sounds are organized, and how the front and back
panels are laid out. A complete list of the A6’s functions are presented along with
concise descriptions.
Program Functions – Chapters 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9
These five Chapters take you through every function that makes up a Program.
Here’s where the theory we covered in Chapter 3 meets reality: what the knobs and
switches do to affect each aspect of the sound.
Sound Applications – Chapters 10, 11 and 12
Chapter 10 covers all the bases when it comes to using the Andromeda’s powerful
internal effects. Chapter 11 deals with Mix mode: the A6’s memory functions for
combining two or more Programs. Mix mode is where you create splits and layers,
multiple splits and layers and other multitimbral configurations. We’ll also explore
incorporating external Programs with the A6’s internal sounds.
Chapter 12 takes a good, long look at MIDI: an introductory tutorial on MIDI
functions followed by MIDI operations specific to the A6.

Introduction
ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL 17
Technical – The Appendices
The appendices at the end of the A6 Reference Manual provide concise information
about the instrument from a technical perspective:
Appendix A is a complete reference that documents every function in the unit.
Appendix B is glossary of common terms we use throughout the manual.
Appendix C provides troubleshooting assistance and covers the majority of
common problems you might incur while using the A6.
Appendix D provides a list of the A6’s technical and design specifications
including the instrument’s MIDI Implementation Chart.
Appendix E covers all warranty, servicing and maintenance issues.
The Index is a comprehensive cross-reference to all of the topics and terminology
in the manual.
TYPOGRAPHIC CONVENTIONS
Knob, button and back panel jack labels are printed in SMALL BOLD CAPITALS.
Words or phrases that appear in the display are printed using type that
resembles the DISPLAY characters.
A new or important term is in italics followed by its definition or contextual meaning.
Paragraphs in italics provide additional information on a topic that might be helpful in
understanding certain important concepts.
Tip: A hint or special example called a Tip is set off from the main text by a box with
a light-gray fill.
Important instructions or emphasis on a word or phrase are printed in boldface
type.

Introduction
18 ANDROMEDA A6 REFERENCE MANUAL
KEY TERMINOLOGY
While we define terms throughout this manual, and also provide a Glossary at the
end, we’d like to list a few terms now that will help you get a head start on some of
the technical expressions used in this document:
Voice
A synthesizer voice is the most basic component of a synthesizer that produces
sound. A voice is all of the hardware and software that is necessary to produce one
note of sound.
The A6 has 16 voices: 16 independent “sound-producing components” that play
when a key or keys are played on its keyboard, or when MIDI Notes are received.
This also means that 16 voices is the limit: if you play more than 16 keys at a time (or
the A6 receives more than 16 MIDI Notes), only 16 will play.
Program and Mix
Where a voice is the instrument’s sound-producing component, a Program is all the
settings that cause the voices to produce a particular sound. This is where many of
the front panel controls come in. They are used to create the individual sounds of the
A6 and their values (settings) are stored as a Program.
A Mix is two or more Programs that can be played at the same time. Mix mode is
where you make settings for splits and layers plus numerous combinations of
Programs, and keyboard/MIDI control.
RAM and ROM
Related to Programs and Mixes, these two terms refer to the physical circuit chips
inside the A6 where data is stored. RAM stands for Random Access Memory and is a
type of memory that you can change. This manual refers to RAM as user memory.
In addition to Programs and Mixes, Global setings are also stored in RAM (see the
definition of Global mode later in this topic).
ROM stands for Read Only Memory and is a type of memory that is, for the most
part, permanent. The A6 uses a type of ROM called Flash ROM which can be
modified but only under special circumstances. So, for all intents and purposes,
consider ROM to be read-only. This manual refers to ROM as preset memory.
Parameter
Virtually all of the main functions of the A6 are comprised of smaller elements or
parts. These elements are all related in some way to the overall operation of the
function they constitute. Each of these elements or parts is referred to as a parameter.
Using an Envelope as an example, it is comprised of no less than 47 parameters: six
adjustments for time, five adjustments for level, eight trigger settings, six dynamics
settings, eight loop parameters, plus settings for slope (with nine options), 12
modulation parameters and clock-synchronization settings.
Page
The display will group a function’s parameters together on the screen called a
display page. Some A6 functions have more than one page because they have more
parameters than can be displayed in the available screen area. This is called a multi-
page display and each page’s title is printed on a page tab which resembles a tab in a
notebook.
Editing
When you make a change to a parameter in a Program or Mix, or to a Global function
– by adjusting its numeric value, turning it on or off and so forth – this is called
editing.