Lexicon PCM 81 - REV User manual

User Guide
Digital Effects
Processor
PCM 81

Lexicon Inc.
3 Oak Park
Bedford MA 01730-1441
Telephone[phone]
Fax [phone]
Copyright 1998
All Rights Reserved.
Unpacking and Inspection
Notice
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 type tested and found to comply with the
limitsforaClassBcomputingdeviceinaccordancewiththespecificationsinSubpartJofPart15ofFCCRules,whicharedesignatedtoprovide
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 OFF and 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 computer with respect to the receiver
Move the computer away from the receiver
Plug the computer into a different outlet so that the computer 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, DC 20402, Stock No. 004-000-00345-4.
Le présent appareil numérique n'émetpas de bruits radioélectriques dépassant les limites applicables aux appareils numériques de laclass
B prescrites dans le Règlement sur le brouillage radioélectrique édicté par le ministère des Communications du Canada.
AfterunpackingthePCM81,saveallpackingmaterialsin caseyoueverneedtoshiptheunit.Thoroughlyinspect
thePCM81andpackingmaterialsforsignsofdamage.Reportanyshipmentdamagetothecarrieratonce;report
equipment malfunction to your dealer.
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
This triangle, which appears on your
component, alerts you to the pres-
ence ofuninsulated, dangerous volt-
age inside the enclosure... voltage
that may be sufficient to constitute a
risk of shock.
Thistriangle,whichappearsonyour
component, alerts you to important
operating andmaintenanceinstruc-
tions in this accompanying litera-
ture.
Save these instructions for later use.
Follow all instructions and warnings marked on the unit.
Alwaysusewith the correctlinevoltage. Refer tothe manufacturer'soperating instructionsforpower requirements. Be advisedthat different
operating voltages may require the use of a different line cord and/or attachment plug.
Do not install the unit in an unventilated rack, or directly above heat producing equipment such as power amplifiers. Observe the maximum
ambient operating temperature listed in the product specification.
Slotsandopeningson thecaseareprovidedforventilation;to ensurereliableoperationandpreventitfromoverheating,theseopeningsmust
not be blocked or covered. Never push objects of any kind through any of the ventilation slots. Never spill a liquid of any kind on the unit.
This product is equipped with a 3-wire grounding type plug. This is a safety feature and should not be defeated.
Never attach audio power amplifier outputs directly to any of the unit's connectors.
To prevent shock or fire hazard, do not expose the unit to rain or moisture, or operate it where it will be exposed to water.
Donotattempttooperatetheunitifithasbeendropped,damaged,exposedtoliquids,orifitexhibitsadistinctchangeinperformanceindicating
the need for service.
This unit should only be opened by qualified service personnel. Removing covers will expose you to hazardous voltages.
Precautions
Lexicon Part # 070-12614

User Guide
Digital Effects
Processor
PCM 81

Dansk
Vigtig information om sikkerhed
Gem denne vejledning til senere brug.
Følg alle anvisninger og advarsler på apparatet.
Apparatet skal altid tilsluttes den korrekte spænding. Der henvises til
brugsanvisningen, der indeholder specifikationer for strømforsyning. Der
gøres opmærksom på, at ved varierende driftsspændinger kan det blive
nødvendigt at bruge andre lednings- og/eller stiktyper.
Apparatet må ikke monteres i et kabinet uden ventilation eller lige over
andet udstyr, der udvikler varme, f.eks. forstærkere. Den maksimale
omgivelsestemperatur ved drift, der står opført i specifikationerne, skal
overholdes.
Der er ventilationsåbninger i kabinettet. For at sikre apparatets drift og
hindreoverophedningmådisseåbningerikkeblokeresellertildækkes.Stik
aldrig noget ind igennem ventilationsåbningerne, og pas på aldrig at spilde
nogen form for væske på apparatet.
Dette apparat er forsynet med et stik med jordforbindelse. Denne
sikkerhedsforanstaltning må aldrig omgås.
Udgangsstik fra audioforstærkere må aldrig sættes direkte i apparatet.
Apparatet må ikke udsættes for regn eller fugt og må ikke bruges i
nærheden af vand for at undgå risiko for elektrisk stød og brand.
Apparatet må aldrig bruges, hvis det er blevet stødt, beskadiget eller vådt,
eller hvis ændringer i ydelsen tyder på, at det trænger til eftersyn.
Dette apparat må kun åbnes af fagfolk. Hvis dækslet tages af, udsættes
man for livsfarlig højspænding.
Denne mærkat på komponenten advarer om vigtig drifts- og
vedligeholdsinformation i dentilhørende litteratur.
Dennemærkatpåkomponentenadvareromuisoleret,farligspænding
i apparatet ... høj nok til at give elektriskstød.
Suomi
Tärkeitä turvallisuusohjeita
Säilytä nämä ohjeet tulevaa käyttöä varten.
Seuraa kaikkia yksikköön merkittyjä ohjeita ja varoituksia.
Käytäainaoikeaaverkkojännitettä.Tehovaatimuksetselviävätvalmistajan
käyttöohjeista. Huomaa, että eri käyttöjännitteet saattavat vaatia
toisenlaisen verkkojohdon ja/tai -pistokkeen käytön.
Älä asenna yksikköä telineeseen jossa ei ole tuuletusta, tai välittömästi
lämpöä tuottavien laitteiden, esim. tehovahvistimien, yläpuolelle.
Ympäristön lämpötila käytössä ei saa ylittää tuotespesifikaation
maksimilämpötilaa.
Kotelo on varustettu tuuletusreiillä ja -aukoilla. Luotettavan toiminnan
varmistamiseksi ja ylilämpenemisen välttämiseksi näitä aukkoja ei saa
sulkeataipeittää.Mitäänesineitäeisaatyöntäätuuletusaukkoihin.Mitään
nesteitä ei saa kaataa yksikköön.
Tuoteonvarustettu3-johtimisellamaadoitetullaverkkopistokkeella.Tämä
on turvallisuustoiminne eikä sitä saa poistaa.
Älä kytke audiotehovahvistimen lähtöjä suoraan mihinkään yksikön
liittimeen.
Sähköiskun ja palovaaran välttämiseksi yksikkö ei saa olla sateessa tai
kosteassa, eikä sitä saa käyttää märässä ympäristössä.
Älä käytä yksikköä jos se on pudonnut, vaurioitunut, kostunut, tai jos sen
suorituskyky on huomattavasti muuttunut, mikä vaatii huoltoa.
Yksikön saa avata vain laitteeseen perehtynyt huoltohenkilö. Kansien
poisto altistaa sinut vaarallisille jännitteille.
Tämä kolmio, joka esiintyy komponentissasi, kertoo sinulle, että
tässä tuotedokumentoinnissa esiintyy tärkeitä käyttö- ja ylläpito-
ohjeita.
Tämä kolmio, joka esiintyy komponentissasi, varoittaa sinua
eristämättömänvaarallisenjännitteenesiintymisestäyksikönsisällä.
Tämä jännite saattaa olla riittävän korkea aiheuttamaan
sähköiskuvaaran.
Norsk
Viktig informasjon om sikkerhet
Ta vare på denne veiledningen for senere bruk.
Følg alle anvisningene og advarslene som er angitt på apparatet.
Apparatet skal alltid anvendes med korrekt spenning. Produktbeskrivelsen
inneholder spesifikasjoner for strømkrav. Vær oppmerksom på at det ved
ulike driftsspenninger kan være nødvendig å bruke en annen ledning- og/
eller støpseltype.
Apparatet skal ikke monteres i skap uten ventilasjon, eller direkte over
varmeproduserende utstyr, som for eksempel kraftforsterkere. Den
maksimale romtemperaturen som står oppgitt i produktbeskrivelsen, skal
overholdes.
Apparatet er utstyrt med ventilasjonsåpninger. For at apparatet skal være
pålitelig i bruk og ikke overopphetes, må disse åpningene ikke blokkeres
eller tildekkes. Stikk aldri noe inn i ventilasjonsåpningene, og pass påat det
aldri søles noen form for væske på apparatet.
Dette apparatet er utstyrt med et jordet støpsel. Dette er en
sikkerhetsforanstaltning som ikke må forandres.
Utgangsplugger fra audioforsterkere skal aldri koples direkte til apparatet.
Unngå brannfare og elektrisk støtved åsørge for at apparatet ikke utsettes
for regn eller fuktighet og ikke anvendes i nærheten av vann.
Apparatet skalikkebrukeshvisdet harblitt utsattforstøt,erskadet ellerblitt
vått, eller hvis endringer i ytelsen tyder på at det trenger service.
Dette apparatet skal kun åpnes av fagfolk. Hvis dekselet fjernes, utsettes
man for livsfarlig høyspenning.
Komponenten er merket med denne trekanten, som er en advarsel
om at det finnes uisolert, farlig spenning inne i kabinettet ... høy nok
til å utgjøre en fare for elektrisk støt.
Komponenten er merket med denne trekanten, som betyr at den
tilhørende litteraturen inneholder viktige opplysninger om drift og
vedlikehold.
Svenska
Viktiga säkerhetsföreskrifter
Spara dessa föreskrifter för framtida bruk.
Följ alla anvisningar och varningar som anges på enheten.
Använd alltid rätt nätspänning. Se tillverkarens bruksanvisningar för infor-
mation om effektkrav. Märkväl, att andra matningsspänningar eventuellt
kräver att en annan typs nätsladd och/eller kontakt används.
Installerainteenheteniettoventileratstativ,ellerdirektovanförutrustningar
som avger värme, t ex effektförstärkare. Se tillatt omgivningens temperatur
vid drift inte överskrider det angivna värdet i produktspecifikationen.
Behållaren är försedd med hål och öppningar för ventilering. För att
garantera tillförlitligfunktionoch förhindraöverhettningfårdessaöppningar
inteblockerasellertäckas.Ingaföremålfårskuffasingenomventilationshålen.
Inga vätskor får spillas på enheten.
Produkten är försedd med en jordad 3-trådskontakt. Detta är en
säkerhetsfunktion som inte får tas ur bruk.
Anslut aldrig audioeffektförstärkarutgångar direkt till någon av enhetens
kontakter.
För att undvika elstöt eller brandfara får enheten inte utsättas för regn eller
fukt, eller användas på ställen där den blir våt.
Använd inte enheten om den har fallit i golvet, skadats, blivit våt, eller om
dess prestanda förändrats märkbart, vilket kräver service.
Enheten får öppnas endast av behörig servicepersonal. Farliga spänningar
blir tillgängliga när locken tas bort.
Denna triangel, som visas på din komponent, anger att viktiga
bruksanvisningar och serviceanvisningar ingår idokumentationen i
fråga.
Denna triangel, som visas på din komponent, varnar dig om en
oisoleradfarligspänninginneienheten.Dennaspänningäreventuellt
så hög att fara för elstöt föreligger.

Dieses Dreieck auf Ihrem Apparat bedeutet daß wichtige Betriebs-
und Wartungsanweisungen in der mitgelieferten Dokumentation zu
finden sind.
Dieses Dreieck auf Ihrem Apparat warnt Sie vor nicht-isolierter,
gefährlicher Spannung im Gehäuse ... stark genug um eine
Berührungsgefahr darzustellen.
Deutsch
Wichtige Sicherheitsanweisungen
Heben Sie sich diese Sicherheitsanweisungen auch für später auf.
BefolgenSiealleaufderVorrichtungstehendenAnweisungenundWarnungen.
ImmernurmitderrichtigenSpannungverwenden!DieGebrauchsanweisungen
des Herstellers informieren Sie über die elektrischen Anforderungen.
Vergessen Sie nicht daß bei verschiedenen Betriebsspannungen ggf. auch
verschiedene Leitungskabel und/oder Verbindungsstecker zu verwenden
sind.
Stellen Sie die Vorrichtung nicht in ein unbelüftetes Gestell oder unmittelbar
überwärmeerzeugende Geräte wiez.B.Tonverstärker.Halten Sie dieinden
Produktspezifikationen angegebene maximale Umgebungstemperatur bei
Betrieb ein.
Schlitze und Öffnungen im Gehäuse dienen der Belüfung; um verläßlichen
BetriebsicherzustellenundÜberheizenzuvermeidendürfendieseÖffnungen
nich verstopft oder abgedeckt werden. Stecken Sie nie irgend einen
GegenstanddurchdieBelüftungsschlitze.VergießenSiekeineFlüssigkeiten
auf den Apparat.
Dieses Produkt ismit einem 3-drahtigen Erdungssteckerausgerüstet. Diese
Sicherheitsmaßnahme darf nicht unwirksam gemacht werden.
SchließenSienieTonverstärkerunmittelbaraneinenAnschlußdesApparates
an.
Um elektrischen Schlag oder Feuer zu vermeiden, setzen Sie den Apparat
weder Regen noch Feuchtigkeit aus und betreiben Sie ihn nicht dort wo
Wasser eindringen könnte.
Versuchen Sie nicht den Apparat zu betreiben falls er fallen gelassen,
beschädigt, oder Flüssigkeiten ausgesetzt wurde, oder falls sich seine
ArbeitsweisederartändertdaßdarauseinBedarfnachRaparaturzuschließen
ist.
DieserApparatsolltenurvonqualifiziertenFachleutengeöffnetwerden. Das
Abnehmen von Abdeckungen setzt Sie gefährlichen Spannungen aus.
Español
Instrucciones importantes de seguridad
Guarde esta instrucciones para uso posterior.
Utilice siempre el voltaje correcto. Diríjase a las instrucciones de operación
del fabricante para obtener las especificaciones de potencia. Esté al tanto
de que voltajes de operación distintos requieren el uso de cables y/o
enchufes distintos.
Noinstaleestaunidadenunestantesinventilación,nitampocodirectamente
encima de equipos que generen calor tales como amplificadores de
potencia. Fíjese en las temperaturas ambientales máximas de operación
que se mencionan en las especificaciones del producto.
Las aperturas y ranuras del chasis sirven para proveer la ventilación
necesaria para operar la unidad con seguridad y para prevenir
sobrecalentamiento,yporlotantono puedenserobstruidasocubiertas.No
introduzca objetos de ningún tipo a través de las ranuras de ventilación, y
nunca deje caer ningún líquido sobre la unidad.
Este producto está equipado con un enchufe de 3 clavijas con conexión a
tierra. Éste es un elemento de seguridad que no debe ser eliminado.
Nuncaconecteningúntipodesalidadeamplificadoresdesonidodirectamente
a los conectores de la unidad.
Paraprevenirdescargas eléctricasoincendios,mantengalaunidadalejada
de la lluvia, humedad o cualquier lugar en el que pueda entrar en contacto
con agua.
Notratedehacerfuncionarlaunidadsisehacaído,estádañada,haentrado
en contacto con líquidos, o si nota cualquier cambio brusco en su
funcionamiento que indique la necesidad de hacerle un servicio de
mantenimiento.
Estaunidaddeberáserabiertaúnicamenteporpersonalcalificado.Si usted
quita las coberturas se expondrá a voltajes peligrosos.
Este triángulo que aparece en su componente lo alerta sobre las
instrucciones de operación y mantenimiento importantes que están
en los materiales de lectura que se incluyen.
Este triángulo que aparece en su componente le advierte sobre la
existencia dentro del chasis de voltajes peligrosos sin aislantes ...
voltajes que son lo suficientemente grandes como para causar
electrocución.
Français
Instructions de Sûreté Importantes
Gardez ces instructions pour réference future.
Observez toutes les instructions et tous les avertissements marqués sur
l’appareil.
Branchez uniquements sur un réseau de tension indiquée. Consultez le
manuel d’instruction du fabriquant pour les spécifications de courant.
N’oubliez pas que différentes tensions peuvent nécessiter l’utilisation de
cables et/ou de fiches de connexion différents.
N’installez pas l’appareil en un compartiment non-aéré ou directement au-
dessus d’équipements générateurs de chaleur, tels qu’amplificateurs de
courants, etc. Ne dépassez pas la température ambiante maximale de
fonctionnement indiquée dans les spécifications du produit.
Des fentes et ouvertures sont prévues dans le boîtier pour l’aération; Pour
assurerlebonfonctionnementetpourprévenirl’échauffement,cesouvertures
ne doivent pas être couvertes ou bloquées. N’insérez pas d’objets dans les
fentes d’aération. Empêchez tout liquide de se répandre sur l’appareil.
Ce produit est muni d’une fiche à trois fils pour la mise à terre. Ceci est une
mesure de sécurité et ne doit pas être contrariée.
Ne connectez jamais d’amplificateurs audio directement aux connecteurs
de l’appareil.
Pourempêcherleschocsélectriquesetledangerd’incendie,évitezd’exposer
l’appareil à la pluie ou à l’humidité, et ne le mettez pas en marche en un
endroit où il serait exposé aux éclaboussures d’eau.
N’essayez pas de faire fonctionner l’appareil s’il est tombé à terre, a été
endommangé, exposé à un liquide, ou si vous observez des différences
nettes dans son fonctionnement, indiquant la nécessité de réparations.
Cet appareil ne doit être ouvert que par unpersonnel de service qualifié. En
enlevant les couvercles vous vous exposez à des tensions électriques
dangereuses.
Ce triangle sur sur votre appareil vous invite de suivre d’importantes
instructions d’utilisation et d’entretien dans la documentation livrée
avec le produit.
Ce triangle, sur votre appareil vousavertit de la présence de tension
dangereuse, non-isolée àl’intérieur duboîtier...une tension suffisante
pour représenter un danger d’électrocution.
Italiano
Importanti norme di sicurezza
Conservare le presenti norme per l’utilizzo futuro.
Osservare tutte le istruzioni e le avvertenze apposte sull’unità.
Utilizzare esclusivamente con la tensione di rete corretta. Consultare le
istruzioni operative fornite dal fabbricante per i dati riguardanti la tensione e
l’assorbimento di corrente. Potrebbe essere necessario l’uso di cavi di rete
e/o di spine diverse a seconda della tensione utilizzata.
Noninstallarel’unitàinunoscaffaleprivodiventilazioneoppuredirettamente
sopraunafontedicalore,come,adesempio,unamplificatore.Nonsuperare
la temperatura ambientale massima di funzionamento riportata nei dati
tecnici del prodotto.
Lefessure elealtreaperturenellascatolaservono allaventilazione. Per un
funzionamento affidabile, e per evitare un eventuale surriscaldamento,
questeaperturenonvannoostruiteocoperteinnessunmodo.Evitareintutti
icasidiinserireoggettidiqualsiasigenereattraversolefessurediventilazione.
Non versare mai del liquido di nessun tipo sull’unità.
Questo prodotto viene fornito con una spina a 3 fili con massa. Tale
dispositivo di sicurezza non va eliminato.
Evitaresempredicollegareleuscitedell’amplificatoreaudiodirettamenteai
connettori dell’unità.
Per prevenire il pericolo di folgorazionee di incendio non esporre l’unità alla
pioggiaoadun’umiditàeccessiva;evitarediadoperarel’unitàdovepotrebbe
entrare in contatto con acqua.
Evitare di adoperare l’unità se la stessa è stata urtata violentemente, se ha
subito un danno, se è stata esposta ad un liquido o in caso di un evidente
cambiamento delle prestazioni che indichi la necessità di un intervento di
assistenza tecnica.
Ogniinterventosull’unitàvaeseguitoesclusivamentedapersonalequalificato.
La rimozione della copertura comporta l’esposizione al pericolo di
folgorazione.
Il presente triangolo impresso sul componente avverte l’utente della
presenzanelladocumentazioneallegatadiimportantiistruzionirelative
al funzionamento ed alla manutenzione.
Ilpresentetriangoloimpressosulcomponenteavvertedellapresenza
di tensioni pericolose non isolate all’interno della copertura... tali
tensioni rappresentano un pericolo di folgorazione

Contents
Introduction
1. Product Overview
Block Diagram .................................................................................... 1-1
The Front Panel .................................................................................. 1-2
The Rear Panel................................................................................... 1-3
Installation Notes ................................................................................ 1-4
Mounting ...................................................................................... 1-4
Power Requirements .................................................................... 1-4
Audio Connections ....................................................................... 1-4
Control Connections..................................................................... 1-5
Connectors ................................................................................... 1-5
Setting Audio Levels .................................................................... 1-6
Headroom Display • Overload • Setting Analog and Digital
Input Level • Setting Output Level
Configurations .............................................................................. 1-8
Memory Cards.............................................................................. 1-9
2. Basic Operation
Modes of Operation ............................................................................ 2-1
Navigating a Matrix ...................................................................... 2-2
Info ............................................................................................... 2-3
Control Mode ...................................................................................... 2-4
Program and Register Banks............................................................ 2-17
Tempo Mode .................................................................................... 2-19
Editing an Effect................................................................................ 2-22
The Soft Knob ............................................................................ 2-22
The Soft Row ............................................................................. 2-23
Compare .................................................................................... 2-24
Bypass ....................................................................................... 2-24
Store operations ......................................................................... 2-25
Turning Memory Protection Off • Storing an Effect
Renaming the Effect • Renaming the ADJUST Knob Patch
Selecting a Bank and Register Location
The Full Edit Matrix .................................................................... 2-27
Creating a Soft Row
Patching ..................................................................................... 2-30
About Sources • The Patch Row • Assigning a Source
Patch Sources • Assigning a Destination • Assigning
Values • Jump • Patching Examples • Multiple Patches
with the Same Destination • Mod Row Patching

Contents, cont'd. 3. The Algorithms and their Parameters
About the Algorithms .......................................................................... 3-1
The 4-Voice Algorithms ...................................................................... 3-2
The Reverb Shell ......................................................................... 3-2
Concert Hall ................................................................................. 3-3
Plate ............................................................................................. 3-4
Chamber ...................................................................................... 3-5
Inverse ......................................................................................... 3-6
Infinite........................................................................................... 3-7
The 6-Voice Algorithms ...................................................................... 3-8
Glide>Hall .................................................................................... 3-9
Chorus+Rvb ............................................................................... 3-10
M-Band+Rvb .............................................................................. 3-12
The Resonant Chord Algorithms Res1>Plate and Res2>Plate.. 3-14
The 4-Voice and ^-Voice Parameters ............................................... 3-16
Chorus........................................................................................ 3-16
Controls ...................................................................................... 3-17
Delay Time ................................................................................. 3-19
Feedback/Cross-Feedback ........................................................ 3-21
Filters ......................................................................................... 3-22
Glide FX ..................................................................................... 3-22
Levels ......................................................................................... 3-23
Modulation.................................................................................. 3-24
Panning ...................................................................................... 3-28
Patching ..................................................................................... 3-29
Pitch ........................................................................................... 3-30
Resonance ................................................................................. 3-34
Reverb Design ........................................................................... 3-34
Reverb Time............................................................................... 3-36
The Pitch Algorithms......................................................................... 3-38
About the Pitch Algorithms ......................................................... 3-38
About Pitch Shifting .................................................................... 3-39
Quad>Hall .................................................................................. 3-40
Dual-Chmb ................................................................................. 3-42
Dual-Plt ...................................................................................... 3-44
Dual-Inv ...................................................................................... 3-46
Stereo-Chmb .............................................................................. 3-48
VSO-Chmb ................................................................................. 3-49
The Pitch Parameters ....................................................................... 3-51
MstrCents ................................................................................... 3-51
MstrScale ................................................................................... 3-51
Low Pitch.................................................................................... 3-51
Splice ......................................................................................... 3-51
GldResp ..................................................................................... 3-51
Voice 1-4 (or 1-2) ....................................................................... 3-52
Shift L+R .................................................................................... 3-52
Tips for Setting Pitch Parameters ..................................................... 3-52
Using the Submixer .......................................................................... 3-53
Sends ......................................................................................... 3-54
Returns....................................................................................... 3-54
Routing ....................................................................................... 3-55
Useful Configurations ................................................................. 3-55
Rvb and FX Block Controls ........................................................ 3-61
The Pitch Correct Algorithm and Its Parameters .............................. 3-63

4. The Presets
Program Bank 0.................................................................................. 4-2
Multi Effects (0.0-1.9) ................................................................... 4-2
Modulation Effects (2.0-3.5) ......................................................... 4-3
Special Effects (3.6-4.9) ............................................................... 4-5
Program Bank 1.................................................................................. 4-6
Rhythmic Echo and Delay Effects (0.0-3.6) ................................. 4-6
Ambience Effects (3.7-4.9)......................................................... 4-10
Program Bank 2................................................................................ 4-11
EQ Effects (0.0-1.0) ................................................................... 4-11
Spatial Effects (1.1-2.4).............................................................. 4-12
Gain Effects (2.5-4.0) ................................................................. 4-13
Resonant Chords (4.1-4.9)......................................................... 4-15
Program Bank 3................................................................................ 4-16
Reverb Effects (0.0-2.8) ............................................................. 4-16
Processed Reverb Effects (2.9-3.9) ........................................... 4-18
Remix Effects (4.0-4.9) .............................................................. 4-19
Program Bank 4................................................................................ 4-20
Vocal Shift (0.0-0.9) ................................................................... 4-20
Vocal Harmony (1.0-1.9) ............................................................ 4-21
Guitar Magic (2.0-2.9) ................................................................ 4-22
Instrument Shift & Harmony (3.0-3.9)......................................... 4-23
Percussion & Tempo (4.0-4.9) ................................................... 4-24
Program Bank 5................................................................................ 4-24
Sci-Fi FX (0.0-0.9) ...................................................................... 4-24
Pitch & Delay (1.0-1.9) ............................................................... 4-25
Pitch Sequences (2.0-2.9).......................................................... 4-26
Pads & Drones (3.0-3.7) ............................................................ 4-27
Utility Programs (3.8-3.9) ........................................................... 4-27
Pitch Correct (4.0-4.9) ................................................................ 4-28
Alphabetical Index of Presets ........................................................... 4-29
5. MIDI Operation
Selecting a MIDI Channel ................................................................... 5-1
Controlling PCM 81 Tempo Rate with MIDI Clock.............................. 5-2
MIDI Tempo Control • Using the PCM 81 as a MIDI Control
Source • Slaving two or more PCM 81s
Controller Quirks................................................................................. 5-4
The ADJUST Knob, Foot Pedal, Foot Sw 1 and Foot Sw 2 as
MIDI controllers ............................................................................ 5-4
Controlling the Soft Knob with MIDI • Controlling the Soft Knob
with a Foot Pedal
Program Change Messages ............................................................... 5-5
Automation ......................................................................................... 5-7
Bulk Data Dumps................................................................................ 5-8
MIDI Implementation Chart................................................................. 5-9
Contents, cont'd.

6. Troubleshooting
Low Voltage ........................................................................................ 6-2
Overheating ........................................................................................ 6-2
Common MIDI Problems .................................................................... 6-2
Operational Problems ......................................................................... 6-3
Power On Behavior............................................................................. 6-3
Reinitialization .................................................................................... 6-3
Restoring Factory Default Settings ..................................................... 6-4
7. Specifications
Contents, cont'd.

The Presets
ThankyouforyourpurchaseofthePCM81,oneofLexicon’smostpowerfuland
versatiledigitaleffectsprocessors.ThePCM81brings you exciting new effects
with extensive processing and control capabilities, and uncompromising sonic
clarity.
The PCM 81 contains a built-in library of 300 preset programs that provide a
comprehensive array of effects ranging from beautiful and lush to completely
wild.Thepresetsareorganizedinto6Banksof50, and functionally grouped for
a wide range of applications. Be sure to experiment with all 300 presets to get
a feel for the full range of PCM 81 capabilities.
Introduction
The Algorithms
Every preset has one or more of its parameters patched to the front panel
ADJUST knob, giving you instant control over the primary aspect of the effect
— without going into Edit mode. In the preset, Concert Hall, for example, Mid
ReverbTimeispatchedtoADJUST.Whenyouturn the knob,you willadjustthe
reverbdecay.InPrimeBlue, ADJUSTispatchedtoseveralparameters,so that
turning the knob changes the effect from a tight chorus, to a chorus with
recirculating echoes and, finally, into a reverb.
ThePCM81uses17stereoalgorithmstocreate different types of effects. Each
algorithm includes an uncompromised stereo reverb effect, as well as several
voicesofadditionalstereoeffects.Therearethreegeneralclassesofalgorithm:
4-Voice, 6-Voice and Pitch. The 4-Voice algorithms: Concert Hall, Plate,
Chamber,InverseandInfiniteeachcombineaspecifictypeofreverberationwith
a 4-voice, general purpose, stereo effect “toolbox”, as well as additional post-
processingforthereverb.The6-Voicealgorithms:Glide>Hall,Chorus+Rvb,M-
Band+Rvb, Res1>Plate and Res2>Plate each combine a specific type of
reverberation with a specialized 6-voice stereo effect. The Pitch algorithms:
Quad>Hall,Dual-Chmb,DualPlt,DualInv,Stereo-Chmb,VSO-ChmbandPitch
Correct each offer a unique type of pitch shifting, combined with an
uncompromised Lexicon reverb.
Many of the PCM 81 algorithms include parameters that make it possible to
create dynamic spatialization effects for 2-channel or surround applications.
Check out the Ambience Effects in Bank P1and the Spatial Effects in BankP2
for examples. The Dual FX Pitch algorithms have dedicated Submixer controls
that allow instant reconfiguration of the reverb and effects blocks.
The PCM 81 gives you a unique set of tempo controls.Tempos can be tapped
in with the front panel Tap button (or an assigned controller) or “dialed-in”, in
BPM(beatsperminute)onthedisplay.ThePCM81alsoletsyougenerateMIDI
clock from your tempo, as well as receive MIDI tempo from an external
sequencerordrummachine.InthePCM81,tempocancontrolLFOspeedsand
Tempo Control
Bank P3
Reverb Effects
Processed Reverb
Effects
Remix Effects
Bank P4
Vocal Shift
Vocal Harmony
Guitar Magic
Instrument Shift &
Harmony
Percussion & Tempo
Bank P5
Sci-Fi FX
Pitch & Delay
Pitch Sequences
Pads & Drones
Utility Programs
Pitch Correct
Bank P0
Multi Effects
Modulation Effects
Special Effects
Bank P1
Rhythmic Echo
& Delay Effects
Ambience Effects
Bank P2
EQ Effects
Spatial Effects
Gain Effects
Resonant Chord
Effects

Time Switch controls, as well as all delay parameters, ensuring that all of your
modulations are in tempo with your music. You can even set independent
rhythmic values for different parameters within a single program.
Tempo can be set and displayed in either rhythmic value or time values. Many
presets, particularly the Rhythmic Echo & Delay Effects in Program Bank P1,
have delay times assigned to Tap tempo. Try loading some of these and
pressing Tap twice in rhythm to change tempo.
An enormous range of editing control is provided for each algorithm, with
parameters organized in an edit matrix of as many as 100 main controls. In
addition to providing this powerful sound design capability, the PCM 81 also
allows you to customize these controls for your day-to-day editing needs, or to
use a subset of controls specially designed for each preset.
ThePCM81hastwolevelsofEditMode controlcalledGomodeand Promode.
InGomode,themostusefulparameterswithinan effect are grouped for instant
access via the front panel Edit button. Each preset has a specially selected set
ofGo mode parameters whichlet you make valuechanges tothe effectwithout
losing the character of the sound. Pro mode gives you access to the full
parameter editing matrix for the algorithm of any loaded effect when youpress
Edit. In this mode, you can access a complete set of Modulation and Patching
parameters, create your own ADJUST knob patch and assign your own Go
mode parameters.
AuniquePatchingandModulation systemprovidesunprecedentedcontrolover
your effects, with a versatile set of internal modulators: LFO, AR Envelope,
Envelope Follower, Latch and Time Switches. These allow you to create
modulation sweeps which move in time with music, or wildly animated effects.
You can create as many as 10patches per effect, each with as many as 8pivot
points. You can patch multiple parameters to a single controller, or patch
multiple sources to a single destination.
ThefrontpanelmemoryslotwillacceptindustrystandardPCMCIASRAMcards
(up to 1Meg). Use these cards to store effects (as many as 2350 on a 1 Meg
card), system setups, MIDI program maps, and more.
PCM 81 and PCM 80 SRAM cards are readable by either system.
For all of its programming power and flexibility, you’ll find the PCM 81 simple to
use.The large, 2-line fluorescentdisplay iseasy tosee from any anglewhether
the surroundings are bright or dark. Separate SELECT and ADJUST knobs
make program loading and editing quick and easy. We’ve even designed in a
special Info mode — press and hold any button to find out what its function is,
ortogetstatusinformationsuchasthenameoftherunningeffect,currenttempo
rate, etc.
TogetthemostoutofthePCM81,wesuggestthatyouinvestthetimetoexplore
this manual. We think you’ll agree that the time spent investigating will reward
you with enjoyment of its full capabilities.
Editing
Memory Cards
User Interface

1-1
Product Overview
1
Product Overview
Block Diagram

Lexicon
PCM 81 User Guide
1-2
Up/Down
Press to move up and
down through a pro-
gram, register, or pa-
rameter matrix.
Program Banks
Enables selection of
factory presets. Press
repeatedly to cycle
selection of 4 internal
preset banks. Press
andholdtodisplaythe
name of the current
bank.
Load/✽
In Program or Regis-
ter mode, loads the
selected program. In
Edit mode, scrolls
throughanymulti-field
parameter.
The Front Panel
Headroom
5-position indicator for
analog and digital sig-
nal levels and over-
load conditions.
INPUT
Adjusts analog input
level.
Display
Two rows of 20 alpha-
numeric characters
display effect names
and ID numbers, and
parameter names and
values.
SELECT
Scrolls through pre-
sets, registers or pa-
rameters. With Pro-
gramBankorRegister
Bank selected, scrolls
through the 50 pro-
grams in the selected
bank. With Edit se-
lected, scrolls only
through the param-
etersoftheactiverow.
POWER
On/Off.
Memory Card
Slotforoptionalpreset
ROM or register RAM
cards. Press Eject
buttontoremovecard.
Register Banks
Enables selection of
usermemory.IfaRAM
card is loaded into the
Memory Card slot,
each press of this but-
ton selects a new reg-
ister bank. Press and
hold to display the
name of the current
bank.
Store
Initiates register store
function.
Edit
Enables parameter
selection for editing of
values.
Compare
Active in Program,
Register, and Edit
modes. Press to com-
paretheactiveversion
of the current effect
with the most recently
stored version.
Control
Enables selection of
system and global pa-
rameters.
Bypass
Bypasses or mutes
audio, depending on
the setting of each
program's bypass pa-
rameter.
Tempo
Presstodisplaytempo
rate and to initiate
tempo functions. LED
flashes in time with
current tempo rate.
Tap
Sets tempo. Press
twice in rhythm to es-
tablish tempo rate.
Press once to reset
LFO.
ADJUST
InEditmode,changes
values of parameters
chosen with SELECT.
With Program Banks
or Register Banks se-
lected, behaves as a
soft knob for patched
parameters.

1-3
Product Overview
The Rear Panel
AC Power
Standard 3-pin IEC
powerconnector.100-
240V, 50-60Hz auto-
matic switchingtocor-
rect voltage range.
MIDI
IN
Receives MIDI infor-
mation from other
MIDI equipment such
as master keyboard
controllers, MIDI foot
controllers, sequen-
cersandsynthesizers.
THRU
Passes any MIDI data
received without
change.
OUT
TransmitsMIDIdatato
other equipment.
Footswitch
1/4" Tip/Ring/Sleeve
phone jack for two in-
dependent momen-
tary footswitches
Input Level
2-position (In/Out)
switchformatchingin-
put gain to the source
beingused.Inposition
adds 20dB of input
gain (unbalanced) to
the input stages. Out
position provides 0dB
of gain (balanced).
Balanced Inputs
Combined 3 pole XLR
and 1/4" jacks, elec-
tronically balanced.
Input impedance is
50kΩunbalanced,
and 100kΩbalanced.
Inputs accept input
levels from -22dBu to
+20dBu.
Foot Controller
1/4" Tip/Ring/Sleeve
phone jack provided
for footpedal with
10kΩto 100Ωimped-
ance.
Balanced Outputs
Output impedance is
125Ω, each side, bal-
anced,andlevelsupto
+18dBu maximum full
scale. 1/4" phone con-
nectorsandXLRspro-
vided. Both S/PDIF
and AES outputs are
active at all times.
AES/EBU and S/PDIF Inputs
AES/EBU format digital connectors conform to
AESprofessionalstandards.S/PDIFformatdigi-
tal connectors conform to CP-340 Type II and
IEC-958consumerstandards.Onlyoneofthese
options (AES or S/PDIF) may be selected for
input.

Lexicon
PCM 81 User Guide
1-4
Installation Notes
Mounting
ThePCM81 isequippedwitha3-pinIECpowerconnectoranddetachablecord.
ThePCM81willoperatewithpowersourcesfrom100to240voltsAC,50-60Hz.
Power switching to actual line voltage is automatic.
Power Requirements
Audio Connections Analog Audio
For best performance, maintain balanced connections, and use high-quality,
low-capacitance, twisted-shielded pair cable.
Whenconnecting tosingle-ended, unbalanceddevices, connectthe lowside to
signal ground at the unbalanced piece of equipment. Output level does not
change when connected to an unbalanced input.
Mono Applications
Use a Y-connector inserted at the analog inputs and outputs to have the signal
summed to mono.
NOTE
Be careful to keep input and output to all channels wired consistently. Out-of-
phase wiring can produce audible effects.
Digital Audio
S/PDIF (CP-340 Type II) Consumer Digital Audio connections require 75Ω
coaxial cable suited for digital audio or video signals. Audio grade cable is not
suitable.
AES/EBU connections require balanced connections using high-quality, low-
capacitance,controlled-impedance,datacommunication,twisted-shieldedpair
cable. Microphone cable may introduce a significant amount of jitter into
the signal, causing distortion.
The PCM 81 uses one EIA-standard rack space, and can be mounted on any
level surface or in a standard 19 inch (483 mm) rack. If the PCM 81 is mounted
in a rack or road case, support the rear of the chassis to prevent possible
damage from mechanical shock and vibration.
The maximum ambient operating temperature is 104°F (40°C). Provide ade-
quateventilationifthePCM81 ismountedinaclosed rack withheat-producing
equipment such as power amplifiers.

1-5
Product Overview
Control Connections
Signal Mating Connector Description
L and R Analog XLR A3M Active balanced, pin 2 high
Audio Input +2dBu min; +20dBu max
at 0dB setting
L and R Analog XLR A3F Active balanced, pin 2 high
Audio Output -2dBu to +18dBu
at full scale output
AES/EBU XLR A3M Balanced RS-422
Digital Input pin 2 high
AES/EBU XLR A3F Balanced RS-422
Digital Output pin 2 high
S/PDIF 1/4" EIAJ Consuner Digital
CP-340 Type II Audio Format
Consumer Digital tip high
Audio Input and
Output
MIDI In 5-pin DIN Standard MIDI Interface
MIDI Out
MIDI Thru
Footswitch/Foot Controller
One 1/4 inch T/R/S phone jack is provided for 2 momentary footswitches.
Another 1/4 inch T/R/S phone jack is provided fora footpedal (minimum 100Ω
to maximum 10k impedance). Normally open or normally closed momentary
switches are suitable. At power on, the PCM 81 assumes the switch is off. Use
shielded, twisted-pair cable with shield connected to sleeve. See diagram on
page 3.
MIDI
5-pin DIN connectors are provided for MIDI IN, THRU and OUT. Use standard
5-pin DIN MIDI cable assemblies, available from your local dealer.
Connectors
pin 2 high by convention

Lexicon
PCM 81 User Guide
1-6
ThePCM81,withbothanaloganddigitalinputandoutputconnections,requires
some attention to proper setting of signal level.
Analoginputsarefirstgain-conditionedbytherearpanel inputgainswitch, and
then by the front panel INPUT knob. Proper setting of both the switch and knob
areimportant for best performanceof the A/D converter.Audio data fromthe A/
D converter is level adjusted by the Analog Lvl parameter before reaching the
effects processors. Digital inputs are also level adjusted before reaching the
effects processors via the Digital Lvl parameter.
Analog and the selected digital source are mixed at the input to the effects
processors. Forexample, settingboth AnalogLvl and DigitalLvl to 50%will mix
the analog and the selected digital input signals equally and send them to the
effects. Creating a mix which exceeds 100% can cause overload.
Proper setting of Input level on the PCM 81 is dependent on:
• Propersignallevelintotheanalogfrontendtoavoidsignalscausingoverload
at the DSP input
• Proper adjustment of the signal level into the analog-to-digital converter to
optimize noise and avoid overload
• Proper setting of signal level into the digital signal processor to optimize
noise.
Headroom Display
The headroom display provides both headroom and overload information from
avarietyofmeasurementpoints.Themetersdisplaythesumof boththeanalog
and the digital input data. Examining either the analog or the digital level alone
requires that the Level parameter of the subject data stream be set to 100%,
while the Level parameter of the other is set to 0%.
Thechartbelowillustratestheadjustmentrangethatwillset inputlevels forboth
balanced and unbalanced operation.When a choice can be made, it is best to
operate at the higher amplitude end of the recommended range to optimize
noise performance.
Setting Audio Levels
Overload
The 0db (overload) indicators will light under the following conditions:
• A/D overload
• overload at any point in effects processing
For example, internal peaking of high Q filters, or level buildup from certain
reverberation modes can result in overload, even when the input A/D or digital
receiver data stream is not at full scale. Such conditions are most often caused
by a combination of extreme parameter settings. Adjusting parameter/level
settings can eliminate these overload conditions.
Unbalanced Balanced
overload: > 0dBu >+20dBu
acceptable: 0dBu to -22dBu +20dBu to -2dBu
too low (noisy): <-22dBu <-2dBu

1-7
Product Overview
Selecting a Digital Input Source
1. Press Control.
2. Press Up or Down until the leftmost digit in the lower lefthand corner of the
display is 0.
3. Turn SELECT to 0.0 Word Clock, and turn ADJUST to display Ext: XLR or
Ext: Coax, depending on the input you are using.
Selecting Word Size
1. Press Control.
2. Press Up or Down until the leftmost digit in the lower lefthand corner of the
display is 0.
3. Turn SELECT to 0.3 Word Size, and turn ADJUST to display desired Word
Size.
NOTE: When using analog outputs as primary outputs, set Word Size to 20
bits.
Setting Analog and Digital Input Level
1. Press Control.
2. Press Up or Down until the leftmost digit in the lower lefthand corner of the
display is 0.
3. Turn SELECT to 0.2 Dig In Lvl, and turn ADJUST to display 0%.
NOTE: If you are not running digital audio, controlled by External Clock, into
the PCM 81, the digital audio input will be disabled or muted. Until there is
valid digital audio input, select 0.0 External to enable the digital input level
control.Untilvaliddigitalaudioisconnected,theDigInLvlcontrolwillremain
muted.
4. Turn SELECT to 0.1 Analog In Lvl, and turn ADJUST to display 100%.
5. Adjust the front panel INPUT knob so that program material level peaks
cause the headroom display to reach the top of the column without lighting
theoverloadindicators.Anoccasionallargesignalpeakcausingmomentary
flashingoftheoverloadindicatorisacceptableinmostinstances,but should
be validated by listening to the actual result.
6. If you arerunning digitalaudio, turn SELECTback to 0.2Dig In Lvl, and turn
ADJUST to the desired level. You may want to back off the Analog In Lvl
settingtopreventtheanalog/digitalmixfromoverloadingtheeffectsproces-
sor.
Setting Output Level
WhilestillinControlmode,turnSELECT to0.6Output Level.TheOutputLevel
parameter has two range positions. The appropriate position depends on the
levelhandlingcapabilityofthedeviceconnectedtotheanalogoutputs.Devices
capable of handling outputs with peak levels of 18dBu require setting Output
Level to the +4dBu setting. Devices which cannot handle peak levels greater
than +4dBu require the -10dBu setting.

Lexicon
PCM 81 User Guide
1-8
Effects Send (R)
Effects Send (L)
Channel Input or
Effects Return (L)
Channel Input or
Effects Return (R)
Configurations
Connection to a
mixing console's
effects sends
If you will be using a PCM 81 as your primary effects unit, and your system
includesa console with oneor more auxiliary (effects)sends, connect the PCM
81 as shown above. In most applications, it is preferable to connect the PCM
81outputstotwooftheconsole'sinputchannelstrips, panned full left and right,
ratherthantotheeffectsreturns.Thisallowsthegreatestflexibilityinroutingand
equalization.
In this configuration the console controls are used to set the amount of effect
heard—thePCM81'sMIXcontrolshouldbesetfor100%wet.Toassignaglobal
MIX setting:
1. Press Control.
2. Press Up or Down until 1.x is displayed in the lower left of the display and
System is displayed on the upper line.
3. TurnSELECTuntilSystemMix Mode isdisplayedontheupperline. 1.1 will
be displayed in the lower left.
4. Turn ADJUST until the lower line reads:
1.1 ✱Global
5. Press Load /✱ to show thecurrent global setting ofMIX; use ADJUST to set
it to 100% wet.

1-9
Product Overview
You can use Memory cards to store as many as 2350 PCM 81 registers (47
banks of 50 —on a 1Meg card). Registers stored on a properly formatted card
will be recognized whenever the card is inserted, and can be accessed via the
front panel Register Banks button, exactly as internal registers.
Memory cards can also be used to store "setups" (your system configuration,
asset in Control mode). As manyas 5 PCM 81 setups canbe stored on a card,
allowing you to transport not only your effects, but complete PCM 81 environ-
ments to another PCM 81. Cards also provide storage for additional program
maps and effect chains.
See Control Mode Store and Load functions for details on saving setups on a
card and reloading them.
Memory cards must be of the following type:
PCMCIA SRAM Memory Card — 68 pin, Type I
Usable densities: 64 kByte
128 kByte
256 kByte
1 MByte
Access Time: 250 nsec or faster
ConformstoPCMCIA2.0/JEDIA4.1.Canuseeither8-bitor8/16-bitbusconfiguration.
Attribute memory can be present, but is not used.
Memorycardscanbe usedtostore
PCM 81 registers, or setups.
Memory Cards