Free The Tone AS-1R User manual

AS-1R/AMBI SPACE
DIGITAL REVERB
Owner’s Manual
Ver 1.0

23
Table of Contents
Controls and Indicators 3
Front Panel 3
Rear Panel 4
5
Adjusting reverb (Manual mode) 6
Switching four presets 6
Confirming the position of each knob stored in the preset 6
When the unit is put in Edit mode from Preset mode 7
Changing MIDI reception settings 7
Setting MIDI receiving channels 8
Correspondence between MIDI receiving channels and PRESET LED indications 8
MIDI specifications 9
Correspondence between presets and MIDI program change numbers 9
Correspondence between parameters and MIDI control change numbers 9
Switching presets (Preset mode) 6
Reverb modes 6
Adjusting reverb sound 6
Changing/writing preset contents (Edit mode) 7
Configuring MIDI signal reception settings 7
When the unit is put in Edit mode from Manual mode 7
Initializing 9
Specifications 10
Safety Precautions 11
Factory presets 10
Thank you for choosing a Free The Tone product. In order to take full advantage of the features
and performance it provides, please read this owner’s manual thoroughly, and keep it in a safe
place for future reference.
Handling Precautions
• Never connect or disconnect plugs to/from the input/output terminals on the AS-1R when the external device
that drives speakers is powered. Doing so can cause noises and damage the speakers.
• Avoid applying excessive force to the footswitches, tact switches, and DIN connector on the AS-1R.
• If the unit malfunctions or behaves erratically, cease operation at once and contact your local dealer or Free
The Tone directly.
Controls and indicators
Front panel
MIX knob
MODE encoder
Effect ON/OFF switch
MODE switch
EDIT switch
PRESET select switch
DECAY knob
PRE DELAY knob
TONE knob
Mixes the reverb sound with the original
(dry) sound. When the knob is turned
fully counterclockwise, the original (dry)
sound is 100% and the reverb sound is
0%. When turned fully clockwise, the
mix ratio becomes about 50% to 50%.
Adjusts the tone of the reverb
sound. Turning it clockwise cuts the
low frequencies and turning it
counterclockwise cuts the high
frequencies. Note that this control
does not work on the original (dry)
sound.
Adjusts the decay time of the reverb sound. Note
that the DECAY knob’s adjustable time length differs
according to the selected reverb mode.
This control is used to switch
reverb modes when the unit is in
Manual or Edit mode. Turning this
encoder changes reverb modes.
Note that turning this control in
Preset mode does not change
reverb modes.
In Preset mode:
Press this switch to select a preset from Presets 1–4.
PRESET 1 ➞PRESET 2 ➞PRESET 3 ➞PRESET 4
In Edit mode: (EDIT LED illuminates)
Press this switch to select the preset number to which the current
effects sound settings are to be written. The preset number LED for
the writing destination flashes.
In Manual mode:
Press this switch to select the preset to be recalled when the unit is
put in Preset mode.
Press this switch to toggle the
reverb effect on/off. When ON,
the LED above the switch
illuminates.
Used to put the unit in Edit
mode.
From Preset mode ➞p.7
From Manual mode ➞p.7
Toggles between Preset and
Manual modes.
Adjusts the delay time before
the reverb sound is output.
The adjustable range is
0–250 ms.
Side Panel / Bottom Panel

45
Controls and indicators
Rear panel Side panel
Bottom panel
This terminal is used to connect the dedicated AC
adapter supplied with the AS-1R. An AC adapter
with regulated 9 VDC output, center minus polarity,
and power supply capacity of higher than 280 mA,
such as the FREE THE TONE FA-9, can also be used.
Accepts a standard 5.5-mm x ø2.1-mm plug.
This terminal is used to connect to an
external amplifier or mixer. To feed
monaural signals, connect to the L
(MONO) terminal.
Input terminal for MIDI signals. This
terminal receives MIDI signals from an
external MIDI device.
Power DC9V IN terminal
INPUT LEVEL SELECT switch
KILL DRY switch
Terminal for connecting a guitar,
another instrument or effects unit.
Use the L (MONO) terminal and R
terminal to connect a device
having stereo
outputs. Connect to
the L (MONO) terminal
only when you are
using the unit in
monaural mode.
Note that the
integrated HTS
circuit keeps the
sound texture
the same
whether the
effect is turned
on or off.
Input (L (MONO)-IN-R) terminal
Output (L (MONO)-OUT-R) terminal MIDI IN terminal
This switch is used to select the input level of the
AS-1R to match the output level of the device to be
connected to the Input terminal. When connecting a
device with instrument level signals, set the switch to
the rear side (closer to the I/O jack).
To connect a device with line level signals, set the
switch to the front side.
Use a small flatblade screw driver to slide the switch.
This switch is used to prohibit the
original (dry) sound from being output
from the Output terminal. When this
switch is set to the on position, the
original (dry) sound will not be output. To
turn on the KILL DRY switch, set it to the
front side (closer to the foot switch).
Use a small flatblade screw driver to slide
the switch.

67
Adjusting reverb (Manual mode) Changing/writing preset contents (Edit mode)
Configuring MIDI signal reception settings
Switching presets (Preset mode)
Adjusting reverb sound When the unit is put in Edit mode from Manual mode
When the unit is put in Edit mode from Preset mode
Changing MIDI reception settings
Switching between four presets
Confirming the position of each knob stored in the preset
NOTE
In Preset mode turning each knob does not change reverb sounds. Only the reverb sound in the preset is output.
NOTE
Turning the PRE DELAY knob while inputting signals interrupts the sound. This is not a malfunction.
NOTE
The PRESET 1 LED illuminates: The knob is moving in the counterclockwise direction comparing its current
position with the position stored in the preset.
The PRESET 4 LED illuminates: The knob is moving in the clockwise direction comparing its current position
with the position stored in the preset.
The PRESET 2 and PRESET 3 LEDs illuminate: The knob is at the same position as stored in the preset.
NOTE
By pressing the EDIT switch again after turning the knobs to change parameters in Edit mode, your changes
are canceled and the unit returns to the status in which the original preset is recalled.
NOTE
By pressing the EDIT switch again after turning the knobs to change parameters in Edit mode, your changes
are canceled and the unit returns to the status in which the original preset is recalled.
NOTE — Meaning of the ON/OFF LED statuses:
• ON/OFF LED illuminates: Omni mode is turned on. All of the MIDI channels will be accepted.
• ON/OFF LED is flashing: Omni mode is turned off. MIDI receiving channels can be set. Refer to “Setting
MIDI receiving channels (p.8)”.
• ON/OFF LED is turned off: MIDI receiving function is disabled.
Select one of the six reverb modes in the AMBI SPACE and adjust various parameters to create your desired
reverberation sound.
When the LED above the EDIT switch illuminates, the unit is in Edit mode. Edit mode is used to change/write
preset contents and pressing the EDIT switch puts the unit in this mode.
When the PRESET LED above the MODE switch illuminates, the unit is in Preset mode. In Preset mode, the reverb
sound stored in the preset selected by the PRESET select switch is recalled.
The AMBI SPACE can switch presets and change each parameter by MIDI signals received from an external
controller.
1. Press the MODE switch to illuminate the PRESET LED.
2. Press the PRESET select switch to select the preset.
1. Recall the desired preset.
2. Press the EDIT switch. The PRESET LED for the selected preset flashes.
3. Turn the desired knob clockwise or counterclockwise to confirm its stored position in the preset. The stored
knob position is indicated by the PRESET 1–4LEDs as shown in the note below.
1. Press the ON/OFF switch to illuminate the LED above it.
2. Turn the MODE encoder to select the desired reverb mode.
3. Turn the MIX knob to adjust the mixture level between the original and reverb sounds.
4. Turn the TONE knob to adjust the tone of the reverb sound.
5. Turn the DECAY knob to adjust the decay time of the reverb sound.
6. Turn the PRE DELAY knob to adjust the delay to start feeding the reverb sound.
The current Manual mode setting is written to the preset.
1. Press the EDIT switch to enter into Edit mode.
2. Press the PRESET select switch to select the preset number destination for storing the settings. You can
confirm your selection in advance because the LED flashes to show the destination preset number.
3. Press and hold the EDIT switch for 1.5 s. The LED above the switch flashes and the writing operation is
executed. After writing, the contents of that preset number is recalled and the unit enters Preset mode.
1. While holding down the PRESET select switch, turn on the power to the unit. Keep the switch pressed until
both the PRESET and MANUAL LEDs illuminate.
2. When both the LEDs illuminate, release the PRESET select switch.
3. Press the ON/OFF switch to toggle the MIDI reception settings.
4. Press the MODE switch to complete the setting.
You can adjust only the desired parameters of the current preset sound and store them in the preset.
1. Press the EDIT switch to enter into Edit mode.
2. Turn the knob of the parameter you want to change.
3. Press the PRESET select switch to select the preset number destination for storing the settings. If you want to
write your changes to the preset currently being edited, do not press the PRESET select switch and remain at
the current selection. You can confirm your selection in advance because the LED flashes to show the
destination preset number.
4. Press and hold the EDIT switch for 1.5 s. The LED above the switch flashes and the writing operation is
executed. After writing, the contents of that preset number is recalled and the unit enters Preset mode.
Reverb modes: Use the MODE encoder to select one of the reverb modes.
SPRING
PLATE Simulate a steel plate reverb. Metallic sounds with extended highs can be obtained.
ROOM Simulates reverberations in a room. Natural and warm reverberation sounds can be obtained.
HALL Simulates reverberations in a hall. Spatial and clear reverberation sounds can be obtained.
CAVE
SERENE
Simulates a spring reverb. Note that a real spring reverb does not have the PRE DELAY function but the AMBI SPACE is
deliberately designed to enable this function.
Reverb that can be used for sound effects or volume swell. Magnificent and pure reverberation sounds as if you are playing
in a cave can be obtained.
Frequency bands of reverberation sounds will also change according to the complex reverberation pattern design. You can
get pleasing reverberation sounds as if they were resonating from another space.

: LED on, : LED off.
89
PRESET 1 001
PRESET 2 002
PRESET 3 003
PRESET 4 004
PRESET Number Program Change Number
PRE DELAY 92 0–127
DECAY 93 0–127
TONE 94 0–127
MIX 95 0–127
MODE 96 1–6
EFFECT ON/OFF 65 Off = 0, On = 127
Controls MIDI CC Numbers Value Range
PRESET 1 LED MIDI Channel to be setPRESET 4 LEDPRESET 3 LEDPRESET 2 LED
MIDI Channel 1
MIDI Channel 2
MIDI Channel 3
MIDI Channel 4
MIDI Channel 5
MIDI Channel 6
MIDI Channel 7
MIDI Channel 8
MIDI Channel 9
MIDI Channel 10
MIDI Channel 11
MIDI Channel 12
MIDI Channel 13
MIDI Channel 14
MIDI Channel 15
MIDI Channel 16
MIDI specifications
Initializing
Correspondence between presets and MIDI program change numbers
Correspondence between MIDI receiving channels and PRESET LED indications
Setting MIDI receiving channels
Correspondence between parameters and MIDI control change numbers
The AMBI SPACE can switch presets or change all of the parameters via MIDI signals sent from an external
device. MIDI signals assigned to controllable functions are listed below.
Note that when a preset is recalled on the AMBI SPACE via a MIDI program change number, the unit will
operate as follows according to its current mode:
• Preset mode: The specified preset is recalled.
• Manual mode: The specified preset is recalled and the unit enters Preset mode.
• Edit mode: The unit leaves Edit mode without writing, recalls the specified preset number, and enters Preset
mode.
NOTE: Parameter adjustment via MIDI is effective in all of Manual, Preset, and Edit modes.
NOTE
This operation clears presets and returns all settings to the factory settings.
NOTE
MIDI settings are automatically stored in the memory. No storing operation is required.
NOTE
MIDI receiving channels when Omni mode is turned off are indicated by the combined illumination of the
PRESET 1–4LEDs.
1. While holding down the MODE and PRESET select switches, turn on the power to the unit.
2. Keep the two switches pressed until the PRESET 1–4LEDs illuminate steadily. Release the switches when the
four LEDs are on.
3. All of the presets return to the factory shipment status and the unit is ready for usual operation.
1. While holding down the PRESET select switch, turn on the power to the unit. Keep the switch pressed until
both the PRESET and MANUAL LEDs illuminate.
2. When both the LEDs illuminate, release the PRESET select switch.
3. Press the ON/OFF switch until the ON/OFF LED blinks.
4. Press the PRESET select switch to select the receiving channel while referring to the table shown below
(Correspondence between MIDI receiving channels and PRESET LED indications).
5. Press the MODE switch to complete the setting.

10 11
PRESET-1 SPRING MODE PRESET-2 PLATE MODE
PRESET-3 HALL MODE PRESET-4 SERENE MODE
Safety Precautions
Precautions are identified by the two types of symbols below:
WarningCaution
Be sure to read these precautions and the user's manual before using this product.
WarningCaution
Support / Service
Contact the following for support and/or repair service.
e-mail address: [email protected]
This symbol indicates that a risk of serious personal
injury or material damage may result if precautions are
ignored.
This symbol indicates that a risk of death or serious
personal injury may result if precautions are ignored.
Do not use or store the unit in environments where it
will be exposed to:
• Extreme temperatures (direct rays of the sun, heat
sources such as radiators or stoves.)
• High humidity or moisture.
• Excessive dust or sand.
• Excessive vibration or shock.
Whenever leaving the unit unattended for long periods,
be sure to unplug the AC adapter from the power
source to avoid creating a fire hazard.
Take care not to drop the unit, and do not subject it to
excessive pressure or weight.
Do not press the switches on the unit with a bare foot,
or unexpected injury may result.
Do not use solvents (such as benzine, paint thinner) on
the unit, since these may dull the finish or damage the
surface.
Never try to disassemble, or modify the unit.
Stop using the unit if you notice smoke or a strange
odor coming from it and unplug the AC adapter from
the outlet.
Never try to repair the unit or replace parts unless so
instructed by the user's manual. For other repair or
parts replacement contact your local dealer or Free The
Tone.
Never unplug the AC adapter while your hands are wet.
Do not apply too much pressure or tension or place a
heavy object on the power cord. Doing so may damage
the power cord and create a danger of fire or electrical
shock.
Turn off the unit and unplug the AC adapter from the
outlet and contact your local dealer or Free The Tone
for repair in the case of any of the following:
• The power cord is damaged.
• Foreign objects (coins, pins, etc.) or liquid enter the
unit.
• The unit gets wet from rain or other liquid.
• The unit is out of order.
Be careful of heat radiation from the unit.
Never cover the AC adapter with cloth or other objects.
Built-up heat can deform the case or cause a fire
hazard.
Factory presets
Specifications
• Number of presets: ４
• Input impedance: INST min. 1MΩ/ LINE min. 300 kΩ
• Output load impedance: min. 10 kΩ
• Maximum input level: INST +3 dBm / LINE +11 dBm
• Controls:
PRE DELAY, DECAY, TONE, MIX, MODE, INST (-10 dB) / LINE (+4 dB) level select switch, KILL DRY switch
• Terminals: 4 x 1/4" phone jack = L (mono) / R INPUT, L (mono) / R OUTPUT, 1 x DIN 5-pin connector (MIDI IN), 1 x
DC 9V input jack (for AC adapter connection)
• Power supply: via dedicated DC9V AC adapter
• Current consumption: 280 mA (max.)
• Dimensions (W x D x H): 120 x 102.3 x 58.5 mm / 4.72 x 4.03 x 2.3 inches (incl. protuberances such as footswitches,
jacks)
• Weight: approx. 385 g / 0.85 lbs (excl. accessories)
• Accessories: Warranty card, Owner’s manual, AC adapter, 4 x rubber feet
Specifications and appearance subject to change without notice.