ENSONIQ DP/4+ User manual

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READ THIS FIRST!
Groyndlng instructions
This product must be grounded. If it should malfunction or break down, grounding provides a path of
least resistance for electric current to reduce the risk of electric shock. This product is equipped with a
cord having an equipment-grounding conductor and a grounding plug. The plug must be plugged into an
appropriate outlet that is properly installed and grounded
in accordance with all local codes and ordi-
nances.
DANGER: Improperconnection of the equipment-grounding conductor can result in the risk of electric
shock. Check with a qualified electrician or service personnel
if you are in doubt as to whether the
product is properly grounded. Do not modify the plug provided with this product -
if it will not fit the
outlet, have a proper outlet installed by a qualified electrician.
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE DANGER OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK)
NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE
• REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL
This symbol is intended to alert the userto the
presence of uninsulated "dangerous voltage"
within the product's enclosure that may be of
sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of elec-
tronic shock to persons.
This symbol
is intended to alert the userto the
presence of important operating and mainte-
nance (servicing) instructions in the literature
accompanying the appliance.
SEE IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS ON BACK COVER!
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parallel effects processor 0 P / 4
Musician's Manual
Version 1 .02

DP/4 Musician's Manual:
Written, designed, and illustrated by: Tom Tracy, John Dattorro , Bill McCutcheon, Bill Whipple
Copyright © 1994
ENSONIQ® Corp
155 Great Valley Parkway
Box 3035
Malvern, PA 19355-0735
USA
Printed in U.S.A.
All Rights Reserved
Please record the following information :
Your Authorized ENSONIQ Dealer: ____________ Phone: ______ _
Your Dealer Sales Representative:, _____________________ _
Serial
Number of Unit: ____________ Date of Purchase: _______ _
Your Authorized ENSONIQ Dealer is your primary source for service and support. The above information will be helpful in
communicating with your Authorized ENSONIQ Dealer, and provide necessary information should you need to contact
ENSONIQ Customer Service.
If you have any questions concerning the use of this unit, please contact your Authorized
ENSONIQ Dealer first. For additional technical support, or to find the name
of the nearest Authorized ENSONIQ Repair
Station, call ENSONIQ Customer Service at [phone] Monday through Friday 9:30 AM to 12:
15 PM and 1: 15 PM to
6:30 PM Eastern Time. Between 1:15 PM and 5:00 PM we experience our heaviest call load. During these times, there may be
delays in answering your call.
This manual is copyrighted and all rights are reserved by ENSONIQ Corp. This document may not, in whole or in part, be copied,
photocopied, reproduced, translated, or reduced
to any electronic medium or machine readable form without prior written consent
from ENSONIQ Corp. The DP/4 software/firmware is copyrighted and all rights are reserved by ENSONIQ Corp.
Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy
of the text and illustrations in this manual, no guarantee is made or
implied in this regard.
IMPORTANT:
' This equipment generates and uses radio frequency energy and if not installed and used properly, that is, in strict accordance
with the manufacturer's instructions, may cause interference to radio and television reception. It has been designed to comply
with the limits for a Class B computing device
in accordance with the specifications in Subpart J of Part 15 of FCC rules, which
are designed to provide reasonable protection against such interference in a residential installation. However, there is no
guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation.
If this equipment does cause interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment offand on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the
interference by
one or more of the following measures."
* reorient the receiving antenna
*relocate the instrument with respect to the receiver
*move the instrument away from the receiver
*plug the instrument into a different outlet so that the instrument and receiver are on different branch circuits
"If necessary, the user should consult the dealer or an experienced radio/television technician for additional suggestions. The
user may find the following booklet prepared by the Federal Communications Commission helpful: 'How to Identify and
Resolve Radio-TV Interference Problems.' This booklet is available from the U.
S. Government Printing Office, Washington,
D.C. 20402. Stock No. 004-000-00345-4."
CAUTION! Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent
type
recommended by the manufacturer. Discard used batteries according to manufacturer's instructions.
In order to fulfill warranty requirements, the DP/4 should be serviced only by an Authorized ENSONIQ Repair Station. The
ENSONIQ serial number label must appear on the outside
of the unit, or the ENSONIQ warranty is void.
• ENSONIQ, TS-10, TS-12, ASR-10, and DP / 4 are trademarks of ENSONIQ Corp.
Part # 9310 0104 01 - D Model # MM-80
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Table of Contents
DP/4 List of Tips
Introduction
Table of Contents
Welcome! .................................................................................................................i
The Effects ..........................................................................................................i
Parallel Processing ..............................................................................................i
The Manual ........................................................................................................i
Power ...... ............................................................................. ................................... .ii
Power - Grounding Information ...........................................................................i i
Ground Loops ............................................................................................................ .iii
AC Line Conditioning ............................................................................................... .iii
Temperature Guidelines ............................................................................................iv
Rack Mounting ..........................................................................................................iv
Powering Up Your DP /4 In a MIDI Set Up ...................................................................iv
Reinitializing the DP/4 ............................................................................................v
When to Reinitialize ..........................................................................................v
Low Battery Voltage - When to Replace the Battery ............................................... vi
DP /4 Accessories ................................................................ ....................................... vi
Section 1 - Tutorial
Decisions, Decisions ..................................................................................................1
Quick Steps to Hear Presets .......................................................................................2
To Select 4 Unit Presets ............................................. .. .........................................2
To Select 2 Unit Presets ........................................................................................2
To Select 1 Unit Presets ........................................................................................2
Plugging In for a 1 Source Config.................................................................................3
Plugging In ..........................................................................................................4
Selecting a 1 Source Config ...................................................................................4
Setting Levels .................................................................................................... .5
Selecting Presets .................................................................................................5
Bypassing Units .............................................................. ....................................6
Plugging In for a 4 Source Config.................................................................................7
Plugging In ..........................................................................................................7
Selecting a 4 Source Config ...................................................................................7
Setting Levels .....................................................................................................8
Selecting a Unit ..................................................................................................9
Selecting 1 Unit Presets .......................................................................................9
Bypassing Units..................................................................................................10
Simple Editing .......................................................................................................... 11
Choosing Units to Edit ............................................................................................... 11
Choosing Different Algorithms ................................................................................. 11
Editing the Mix ......................................................................................................... 11
Changing the Parameters .......................................................................................... 11
Saving Your Edited Preset .........................................................................................12
Setting the Preset Memory Switch .............................................................................12
Sa ving a Preset ....................... ..................................................................................12
Bailing Out ...............................................................................................................13
ENSONIQ DP/4 Musician's Manual 1

Table of Contents
Section 2 - Getting Started
Front Panel Controls ..................................................................................................15
Rear Panel Connections ............................................................. .. ...............................18
Understanding the DP /4 ............................... .. ........................ .. .................................20
Modes................................................................................................................. 21
Select Mode ...................................................... .. .................................... 21
Edit Mode ...............................................................................................22
System. MIDI Mode ................................................................................22
Inputs, Units,
and Outputs ...................................................................................23
Units, Sources, and Configs ..................................................................................23
1
Source Configs ...................................................................................................24
2
Source Configs ...................................................................................................25
3
Source Configs .............................. .. . .... ..............................................................26
4
Source Configs ................................................................................................... 27
Signal Routing Between Units ..............................................................................28
Understanding Serial and Parallel Signal Routing...............................................28
AB to CD Signal Routing..... .. ..............................................................................29
Selecting
Presets .......................................................................................................30
How the Config Affects Selecting Presets.............................................................30
Selecting Config Presets ...... .. .................................... .. ........... .. ............................31
Selecting 4
Unit Presets in a 1 Source Config..... .. . .. . .. ....... ... ...................................32
Selecting 2
Unit Presets in a 2 Source Config..........................................................33
Selecting 1
and 2 Unit Presets in a 3 Source Config........ .. .......................................34
Selecting 1
Unit Presets in a 4 Source Config..... .. ...................................................35
Editing DP /4 Parameters ................................................... .. ......................................36
Replacing
the Algorithm in a Single Unit............................................................36
Editing Algorithm Parameters ...................................... .. ....................................37
Edit Buffer ..........................................................................................................38
Quick Tips
and Shortcuts.....................................................................................38
Editing Config Parameters ...................................................................................39
Editing System. MIDI Parameters.......................................................................40
Section 3 - Config Parameters
What is a Config? ................................................................... .. ...............................41
Config Presets ...........................................................................................................
41
Digital and Analog Converters ................................................................................. .41
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Input Configurations ............................................................................ .. ....................42
OneSource
Input Configuration............................................................................42
Two Source Input Configuration ...................... .. ....................................................42
Three Source
Input Configuration.........................................................................42
Four Source
Input Configuration ...........................................................................42
Selecting a
Config Preset ......................................,..................................................... 43
Editing a Config Preset ..............................................................................................44
1 Source Config..........................................................................................................45
Available ABCD Routings ..................................................................................47
2 Source Config..........................................................................................................
50
3 Source Config...... .. ..................................................................................................52
4 Source Config..........................................................................................................54
2 ENSONIQ DP/4 Musician's Manual

Table of Contents
Section 4 - Algorithms
Understanding DP /4 Algorithms ...............................................................................55
About the Parameters ........ .. ......................................................................................55
Programming Algorithms .................................................................................... .. ....55
About Presets ............................................................................................................56
When are New Algorithms Loaded into the ESP Chips? ............................................56
Mix
and Volume Parameters......................................................................................56
Algorithm Modulators ............................................ .. ................................................ 57
Algorithm Parameters ..............................................................................................57
SMALL ROOM REV, LARGE ROOM
REV, HALL REVERB . .. ...............................58
SMALL PLATE, LARGE PLATE ...........................................................................
61
REVERSE REVERB...... .. .....................................................................................63
REVERSE REVERB 2...........................................................................
.. ..............65
GATED REVERB...................................................... .. .........................................67
NON LIN REVERB 1, 2, 3.................................................................................... 70
MULTI TAP DELAY............................................................................................73
3.3 SEC DOL
2U .................................................................................................. 75
Using the Instant Replay Feature ........................................................................76
DUAL DELAY ....................................................................................................77
TEMPO DELAy ................................................................................................... 79
EQ - DDL -WITH LFO........................................................................................ 81
VCF -DISTORTION...........................................................................................83
GUITAR AMP 1, GUITAR AMP 2.........................................................................85
GUITAR AMP 3.......... .. ....................................................................................... 87
SPEAKER CABINET ...........................................................................................89
TUNABLE SPEAKER..........................................................................................90
ROTATING SPEAKER........................................................................................
91
EQ -CHORUS -DOL ..........................................................................................93
EQ -VIBRATO -DOL.........................................................................................95
EQ - P
ANNER -DOL ..........................................................................................97
EQ -FLANGER -DOL.........................................................................................99
EQ-TREMOLO-DDL ...........................................................................................101
PHASER-DDL ....................................................................................................103
8 VOICE CHORUS ..............................................................................................105
FLANGER..........................................................................................................107
PITCH SHIFTER, PITCH SHIFT 2U ....................................................................108
PITCHSHIFT - DOL ............................................................................................110
FAST PITCH SHIFT............................................. .. .............................................112
EQ -COMPRESSOR............................................................................................114
EXPANDER ........................................................................................................116
KEYED EXPANDER ...........................................................................................118.
INVERSE EXP
ANDER ............................................... .. .......................................120
DE-ESSER.............................................................
.. ...........................................122
DUCKER / GATE................................................................................................124
RUMBLE FILTER................................................................................................126
PARAMETRIC EQ ...............................................................................................127
VAN DER POL FILTER.......................................................................................128
SINE/NOISE GEN ..............................................................................................129
NO EFFECT (BYPASS EFFECT) ..........................................................................130
ENSONIQ DP/4 Musician's Manual 3
•

Table of Contents
Section 5 - The Vocoder
About the Vocoder .....................................................................................................131
How the Vocoder Works ............................................................................................131
Setting Up the Vocoder .............................................................................................132
Making the Right Connections ................................................ . ............................ 132
Selecting the V ocoder Preset ................................................................................132
Using the V ocoder ............................................... ................................................. .....133
Vocoder Parameters . ................................................................................................. 134
Vocoder Modulators .................................................................................................. 135
Section 6 - System-MIDI Mode
About System. MIDI mode .........................................................................................137
Unit Specific Parameters ...........................................................................................138
How the DP / 4 Uses MIDI Channels ..................................................................... 139
Program Change-to-Preset Map Editor .................................................................141
System Global Parameters .........................................................................................143
Song Editor ......................................................................................................... 145
System Exclusive Dump ............................................................................................. 151
System Utility Functions .............. .. ............................................. .............................. 152
Soft Reset ........................................................................................................... 152
Initializing the RAM Presets ...............................................................................152
Reinitializing the DP / 4 ................................................................................ ......153
System Diagnostic Parameters ...................................................................................154
Section 7 - Storage
Internal Storage ..................................................... ............................................... ....155
The Preset Memory Protect Switch .......................................................................155
Saving Presets .....................................................................................................156
Advanced Feature ................................................................................... 157
Naming Presets ...................................................................................................158
Copying Presets ...................................................................................................159
MIDI System Exclusive Storage .. ....................................... ........................................160
Sending MIDI Sys-Ex Messages to another DP /4 or to a Storage Device ................. 160
Sending DP / 4 Data Out via MIDI System Exclusive Dump ....................................160
Receiving MIDI System Exclusive Dumps with the DP /4 ...................................... 161
Using the Preset Parameter Worksheet ......................................................................162
Section 8 - Applications
Loading a 2 Unit Preset While in a 1 Source Config ......... .............................. .............. 165
Saving a 2 Unit Preset While in a 1 Source Config ................................................... .. ..165
Using a 1 Source Config for 4 Selectable Effects................ ...................................... .....166
Using the DP / 4 Song Feature to Chain Presets ............................................................ 167
Using a Foot Switch to Alternate Between Two Presets ............................................... 168
Swapping 1 Unit Presets............................................................................................168
Modulating Effects Parameters with the CV PedaL ...: .............................................. 169
Crossfading Effects....................................................................................................170
4 ENSONIQ DP/4 Musician's Manual

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Table of Contents
Appendix
DP /4 MIDI Implementation ...................................................................................... .1
DP / 4 Algorithm Parameters ........................................... .. ........................................ .111
List of Algorithms .................................................... .. ...............................................X III
Specs ........................................................................................................................ XIV
Physical ............................................................................................................. XIV
Dimensions....................................... .. ................................................................XIV
Glossary ...................................................................................................................XV
Index
Charts
Song/Step Worksheet
MIDI Program Change Map Worksheet
DP /4 Preset Parameter Worksheet
ENSONIQ DP/4 Musician's Manual 5

List of Tips
DP/4 List of Tips
6
Finding the Preset Memory Switch Parameter Quick ly............ .. ................ .. .........12
How to Prevent Accidently Erasing Presets ...... .. .............................. .. ...................13
Shortcuts for locating System· MIDI parameters ............ .. ...................... .... ..........22
To get to the first parameter................................................................................38
To advance
by screens ..........................................................................................38
To quickly
advance through the parameters ........................................ .... .............38
To
undo your last parameter edit ........................................... .. .............. .. .............38
To restore parameter settings...............................................................................38
A Quick Way to get
to the Preset Memory Protect Page.. .. .....................................155
Using the Unit buttons to Select the Alphanumeric Characters for Naming Presets 158
Setting the Preset Memory Protect Switch to Prevent Accidently Erasing Presets...158
ENSONIQ DP/4 Musician's Manual

•
Introduction
Welcome!
Congratulations, and thank you for your purchase of the ENSONIQ DP/ 4 Parallel Effects
Processor. The DP / 4 is a great sounding 24-bit digital effects processor combining four
independent effects processors, and four independent inputs and outputs featuring full mixdown
capabilities. The DP/ 4 is equally at home in a recordingstudio, home studio, guitar rig, MIDI
setup,
or PA system.
The Effects
The ENSONIQ DP /4 Parallel Effects Processor has over 40 high fidelity fully programmable
digital effect algorithms. Various reverb, chorusing, flanging, delay, distortion, pitch shifting and
an assortment of other programs are provided with dynamic control over many of the settings.
There
are 400 effect presets; 200 ROM (Read Only Memory) and 200 additional RAM (Random
Access Memory) presets for you to create and edit.
Parallel Processing
While other so-called multi-effects processors only allow one input signal to be "effected," the
DP / 4' s four-in, four-out design permits processing of four parallel channels (multi-processing).
There is
only one user interface, but up to four different input signals can each go to a separate
internal signalprocessor. Multiple inputs and outputs also allow for special types ofdigital
effects, like vocoding
and ducking .
The
DP / 4 can be used as one huge effects box, or two stereo-in effects boxes, or three effects
boxes,
or four separate effects boxes. The routingbetween the four processing units is completely
programmable, allowing for any combination ofserial and parallel effects. The DP/ 4 also offers
paths to feedback the signal, and side-chain capability. The variable architecture and rich
assortment of algorithms provide for unusual effect structures not found in fixed routing
systems. The unique output mixing capability can also save you mixer return channels by mixing
the
stereo outputs of the four effects units down to a single stereo pair (outputs 1 and 2).
The Manual
This manual is your guide to unlocking the full power of the DP/ 4. At this point, you're
probably anxious to plug your DP/ 4 in and use it. Section 1- Tutorial is a quick guide covering
two scenarios for plugging in, hooking
up, and using the DP /4.
After the initial "I just gotta hear it" phase has passed and you're ready to utilize the full potential
of the
DP / 4, please take the time to read through the rest of the sections on effects, modes, and
advanced programming. They'll provide valuable information and tips, as well as speeding up
the learning process and enjoyment of the DP/ 4.
Thank you again for choosing ENSONIQ. Enjoy the music!
ENSONIQ DP/4 Musician's Manual

Introduction
Power
Insert the line cord into the line receptacle on the rear panel of the DP/ 4. Plug the other end of
the cable into a
grounded AC outlet. (The proper voltage for your DP/ 4 is listed on the Serial
Number label on the rear panel.) Tum the DP/ 4 power on and make sure the display lights up.
Hnot, check your connections and power source.
Power -Grounding Information
ii
Like many modem electrical devices, your ENSONIQ product has a three-prong power cord with
earth ground to ensure safe operation. Some products have power cords with only two prongs
and no earth ground. To ensure safe operation, modem products with two-prong power cords
have polarized plugs which can only be inserted into an outlet the proper way .
Some products, such as older guitar amplifiers,
do not have polarized plugs and can be connected
to
an outlet incorrectly. This may result in dangerous high voltages on the audio connections that
could cause you physical harm or damage any properly grounded equipment to which they are
connected, such as
your ENSONIQ product.
To .avoid shock hazards or equipment damage, we recommend the following precautions:
• H you own equipment with two pronged power cords, check to see if they are polarized or
non-polarized. You might consider having
an authorized repair station change any non-
polarized plugs on your equipment to polarized plugs to avoid future problems .
Polarized
Non-polarized
• Exercise caution when using extension cords or plug adapters. Proper polarization should
always be maintained from the outlet to the plug. The use of polarized extension cords and
adapters is the easiest way to maintain proper polarity.
• Whenever possible, connect all products with grounded power cords to the same outlet
ground. This willensure a common ground level to prevent equipment damage and
minimize hum in the audio output. .
AC
outlet testers are available from many electronic supply and hardware stores. These can be
used to check for proper polarity of outlets and cords.
ENSONIQ DP/4 Musician's Manual

I "-'
Introduction
Ground Loops
Sometimes currents flowing through the ground line generate a signal seen by another part of the
circuit sharing the same ground.
In other words, if there are two identical signal paths within a
circuit, they can form a loop which can result
in hum and/ or noise. If you are using equipment
that has 3-prong "grounded" AC power cords, you may suffer from a ground loop resulting from
the interconnection ofthis equipment. The following
diagram shows how cascading or
"chaining" the output of one 3-prong grounded system into the input of another 3-prong
grounded system with a standard unbalanced 2 conductor cord (like a 1/4" guitar cable) can
result in a ground loop.
Unbalanced Output 10 Unbalanced Input.
Single conductorshielded cable
·::>!~~~!.' · ~!!:!·IIII"
~~--~ r-~~~
FIG. 1
Unbalanced Output 10 Unbalanced Input.
Single conductorshielded cable
.. ?I·~~~~·~~T.I:!·IIII"
~~--~ r-~~~
FIG. 2
Fig. 1 depicts a system interconnection where a ground loop can exist. Fig. 2 depicts a system
interconnection where a ground loop does NOTexist. When interconnecting 3-prong grounded
systems, you can use signal isolation transformers to prevent ground loops. This coupling
transformer effectively isolates two interconnected system signal grounds, while allowing the
signal to pass through.
AC Line Conditioning
As is the case with any computer device, the DP /4 is sensitive to sharp peaks and drops in the
AC line voltage. Lightning strikes, power drops, or sudden and erratic surges in the AC line
voltage can scramble the internal memory,
and in some cases, damage the unit's hardware. Here
are a few suggestions to help guard against such occurrences:
• A Surge/Spike Suppressor. The cheaper of the options, a surge/ spike suppressor absorbs
surges
and protects your gear from all but the most severe over-voltage conditions. You can
get multi-outlet power strips with built-in surge/spike suppressors for little more than the
cost of unprotected power strips, so using one is a good investment for all your electronic
equipment.
• A Line Conditioner. This is the best, but by far the more expensive way to protect your gear.
In addition to protecting against surges and spikes, a line conditioner guards the equipment
againstexcessively high or low line voltages. If you use the DP / 4 in lots of different locations
with varying or unknown AC line conditions, you might consider investing in a line
conditioner.
ENSONIQ DP/4 Musician's Manual
iii

Introduction
Temperature Guidelines
The inner workings of the OP / 4 contain a substantial amount of computerized and electronic
circuitry
that can be susceptible to damage when exposed to extreme temperature changes.
When the OP /4 is brought inside after sitting in a cold climate (i.e. the back seat of your car),
condensation builds up on the internal circuitry in much the same way a pair ofglasses fogs up
when you come inside on a cold day. If the unit is powered up as this condensation occurs,
components can short out or be damaged. Excessively high temperatures also pose a threat to the
unit,
stressing both the internal circuits as well as the case. With this in mind, it is highly
advisable to follow these
precautions when storing, mounting and setting up your OP / 4:
• Avoid leaving the OP / 4 in temperatures ofless than 50 degrees Fahrenheit or more than 100
degrees Fahrenheit.
• When bringing the OP / 4 indoors after travel, allow the unit at least twenty minutes to reach
room temperature before powering up. In the case of excessive outdoor temperatures (below
50 degrees Fahrenheit or above 100 degrees Fahrenheit), allow an hour or more before power
up.
• A void leaving the OP / 4 inside a vehicle exposed to direct sunlight.
Rack Mounting
Because the OP / 4 operates with an internal transformer, there is a certain amount of heat
generated by this unit. For better reliability, we recommend that you do not install this unit
beneath devices that are sensitive to heat, or above power amps, tube equipment, or other rack-
mount units that emit a lot of heat.
Powering Up Your DP/4 In a MIDI Set Up
iv
Just as you would power up the individual components before turning on the amplifier in your
home stereo system, you should first tum on the MIDI data transmitting source (processors,
keyboards, modules, etc.) before you power up the receiving MIDI source. For instance, if you're
using the DP / 4 to receive MIDI information from a keyboard/ sequencer, you would tum the
keyboard on before the OP / 4. This will prevent any unwanted MIDI information from being
"spit" out of the transmitting source (keyboard/sequencer) during power up, which could
confuse the MIDI receivers, thereby disabling them. If this should occur, tum off the receiving
module, and then tum it back on.
ENSONIQ DP/4 Musician's Manual

"- \
Introduction
Reinitializing the DP/4
The great power and flexibility of the DP/ 4 lies in the fact that it is really a computer - a
computer disguised as an effects processor, but a computer nonetheless. The software that
operates the DP/ 4 is very sophisticated. In fact, there is a 128K computer program that runs
inside the DP /4 (the Operating System code). That's as much as some personal computers. If
you have ever used a computer, you shouldbe familiar with the need to occasionally reboot your
system when you get an errormessage, etc. Reinitializing the DP/ 4 is the equivalent of rebooting
your computer.
There are
many things that can happen to the DP/ 4 (or any computer system) that might
scramble the systemsoftware -voltage surges, power failures, static electricity, etc. As with any
computer, very infrequently some unforeseen event or combination of events can cause the
software to become confused with strange
and unpredictable results. Sometimes computers that
appear to be broken have no hardware problem, just corrupted data in the internal RAM
(Random Access Memory). Sometimes, simply turning the DP / 4 power off and then on again
will cure the problem.
If that doesn'twork, perhaps what is needed is to reinitialize the unit.
When to Reinitialize:
If your DP / 4 begins to behave in peculiar ways, if the display shows words or lines that
shouldn't be there, if you start getting Unexpected Event messages, if the edit functions start
doing unpredictable things, try reinitializing the DP/ 4 before you seek factory service.
To Reinitialize the DP/4:
1. While holding down the System-MIDI button, press the Unit B button.
2.
3.
Press the Right Arrow button. The following screen will appear:
Hit <WRITE> to
Re i nit i ali ze! I I
Pressing the Write-Copy button at this point will reinitialize the DP / 4.
If reinitializing your DP/ 4 does not correct the problem, then contact an Authorized ENSONIQ
Repair Station.
ENSONIQ DP/4 Musician's Manual v

Introduction
Low Battery Voltage -When to Replace the Battery
The reason that the DP/ 4 "remembers" configs, presets and system parameters, even when the
power is off, is that all of its internal RAM is "battery-backed-up." The battery that keeps the
DP/ 4
memory intact is located inside the DP / 4, and when it becomes discharged, it must be
replaced
by an Authorized ENSONIQ Repair Station.
The battery
that came in your DP/ 4 is good for up to five years oflife. You will know when it
needs replacing, because
the DP/ 4 will tell you so. One day you will switch the power on, and
instead of its usual wake-up message, the display will read:
nn
uu
WI=IRNING
Battery IS Low
This will only appear for a fixed period oftime, and then you can commence with normal
operation. Make sure that all RAM configs, presets and system parameters are saved, and take
the DP/ 4
to an Authorized ENSONIQ Repair Station as soon as possible to have the battery
replaced.
DP/4 Accessories
vi
These optional accessories are available from your ENSONIQ Dealer:
• CVP-l PEDAL- A Control Voltage Foot Pedal which can be assigned as a modulator to
parameters
within the DP / 4.
• SW-IO Foot Switch -The recommended foot switch for use with the DP/ 4. The SW-10 is a
dual (piano-type) foot switch with two separate pedals. When the SW-lO is connected, the
pedals
can be programmed independently to act as a bypass effect switch, offer two
separately programmable modulation sources or increase/ decrease presets.
• SW-2 Foot Switch -This mono foot switch can increase or decrease presets, or act as a
bypass effect switch.
It can also function as a modulation controller.
For a full discussion of
the differences between these two foot switches and how to use them, see
Section 2- Getting Started.
1£ you are considering a foot switch for the DP/ 4, we strongly recommend purchasing the SW -10
Dual Foot Switch, which gives you the most versatility with the least compromise.
ENSONIQ DP/4 Musician's Manual
......

. 'v--
--
Section 1- Tutorial
Section 1 - Tutorial
Decisions, Decisions
The DP / 4 is more than just an effects processor. In fact, it's four independent effects processors
(labelled A,
B, C and D on the front panel), plus a patch bay for interconnecting those processors,
all
in one 2-rack high unit!
Having all these elements in one package gives the DP / 4 incredible flexibility, allowing you to
use it
in many different ways; as a multi-effects unit for one input source (such as a guitar or
keyboard), as independent effects processors connected to four effects sends from your mixing
board, as two independent stereo effects processors, and the list goes on.
This section of
the manual is designed to help you plug in, turn-on, and try-out the DP / 4, but as
you can tell from the above description, there are many ways of doing this. So, you'll first need
to determine how you want to use the DP /4, then we'll proceed.
In this tutorial, we will start with "QuickSteps to Hear the Presets," then focus on the two most
common ways the DP /4 can be used. They are:
• a guitar or one source configuration, applying four different effects to one incoming signal,
• a mixing or four source configuration, with the four independent effects processors inside the
DP /4 being fed by four effects sends (or aux. busses) from a mixingboard.
Other configurations are covered later in this manual, but these two commonly used
configurations will allow you to experience and understand all of the major components and
features of the DP / 4. However, please read on into Section 2- Getting Started, and the rest of the
manual to fully comprehend all the complexities and features ofthe DP/ 4.
And now we'll begin . The tutorial will go over initial hook-up and presetselection for a one
source configuration first,
then cover the same ground for a four source configuration. After that,
some information
that is common to both configurations (and for that matter, all the various
configuration
set-ups in which the DP/ 4 can be used) regarding simple editing and saving of
presets will
be discussed.
Let's
plug in.
ENSONIQ DP/4 Musician's Manual 1

Section 1- Tutorial
Quick Steps to Hear Presets
This page of the Tutorial will take you step-by-step through the DP / 4 so that you can quickly select
and hear all of the presets. Plug your mono sound source into the front panel jack labeled Input 1,
or for stereo into the Inputs labeled 1, 2 on the back of the DP / 4. Connect Output 1 (and Output 2
for stereo) to an audio source (amplifier, mixing board, etc). If you don't hear any sound, set all
Input and Output knobs to a 12 o'clock position, and adjust the Input levels as needed.
To Select 4 Unit Presets:
1. Press the Select button, then the Config button .
2 Turn the large silver Data Entry Knob until the screen shows:
rn
:JU
Select 4U Psets
cMP~pit~rev+ddl
3. Press the Select button again .
4. Turn the Data Entry Knob to display the names of the different 4 Unit presets .
5. Press the Select button to hear the preset on the display.
6. To select other 4 Unit Presets, tum the Data Entry Knob and press Select whenever you see a
Preset you'd like to hear.
To Select 2 Unit Presets:
1. Press the Select button, then the Config button.
2 Tum the Data Entry Knob until the screen shows:
r I
:l I
Select
ddl~rev
3. Press the Select button again.
2U Psets
dr':l+dr':l
4. Tum the Data Entry Knob to display the names of the different 2 Unit presets.
5. Press the Select button to hear the preset on the display.
6. To select other 2 Unit Presets, tum the Data Entry Knob and press Select whenever you see a
Preset you'd like to hear.
To Select 1 Unit Presets:
2
1. Press the Select button, then the Config button.
2 Tum the Data Entry Knob until the screen shows:
r'l
:lC
Select
rev dr':l
lU Psets
dr':l dry
3. Press the Select button again .
4. Tum the Data Entry Knob to display the names of the different 1 Unit presets .
5. Press the Select button to hear the preset on the display.
6. To select other 1 Unit Presets, tum the Data Entry Knob and press Select whenever you see a
Preset you 'd like to hear.
ENSONIQ DP/4 Musician's Manual

Section 1 - Tutorial
Plugging In for a 1 Source Config
The following examples illustrate how to make the necessary cormections with the DP / 4 if you
intend to use it in a 1 source configuration. A 1 source configuration will allow you to apply up
to four separate effects to one incoming audio signal.
Note: If you desire to use the DP/ 4 in a four source configuration with a mixing
board (to apply different effects to as many as four separate signals), see the plugging
in for 4 source diagram later in this section.
For an Electric Guitar or Bass:
Guitar
INPUT 1
(or HI-Z jack)
OUTPUT 1
(for mono)
OUTPUT 2
(for stereo)
DP/4
For a Keyboard (1 Source Configuration):
Synthesizer, sampler,
electric piano
or tone generator
OUTPUT 1 and 2 OR =========---J~~
• • • • • • r=:I
• ••••• Da..J
• • • • • • • •
• • • • • • • •
• • • • • • •• Mixer
Guitar Amps
Keyboard amp (Left)
Keyboard amp (Right)
ENSONIQ DP/4 Mu?ician's Manual 3

Section 1- Tutorial
Plugging In
Using the diagrams on the previous page, make the necessary connections. A single input, such
as a guitar
or bass can be plugged into the Input 1jack on the front panel of the DP /4, instead of
the
Input 1 jack on the rear paneL
Selecting a 1 Source Config
4
In
order to determine how the DP/ 4 routes its signal paths between the various inputs and
outputs, you must seiect a Config Preset.
A Config Preset is the largest type of preset in the DP/ 4. It contains all the signal routing
information, such as which inputs are routed to which outputs, whether the individual units (A,
B, C and/ or D) are run in serial, parallel, or feedback, and which units are bypassed.
Additionally, a Config Preset loads each of the units
with an effect and its associated parameters.
The following steps will take
you through the process of selecting a 1 Source Config Preset, which
is the type ofConfig Preset you'll
want to use when working with only one input signal (either
mono orstereo):
1. Turn the DP/ 4 power switch on .
2 Press the Config button.
3. Using the Data
Entry Knob, scroll to either Config Preset#53 "1 Src: Mono In" (if you're
using one input, such as a guitar), or Config Preset#54 "1 Src: Stereo In" (if you're using two
inputs, such as a left
and right output from a keyboard). The Config Presetlocation number
will appear in the LED Numeric Display, with the description appearing in the two-line LCD
display to the right.
As soon as you begin to scroll, you will notice that the LED above the
Select
button begins to flash. This indicates that the Config Preset you see displayed is not
yet selected, and you must press the Select button to activate it.
4. Press the Select
button to activate the Config Preset.
The display will now looklike either one of these:
1 Src: Mono In
DRY~dr'::l~dr'::l~drY
1 Src: Stereo In
DRY~dr'::l~dr'::l~drY
The LED Display will "tum off" the preset number when itis invalid. This will happen
whenever you change settings 9r parameter values. For a more in-depth discussion on Config
Presets, and a thorough explanation of all of the parameters associated with Config Presets, see
Section 3- umfig Parameters.
E~SONIQ DP/4 Musician's Manual