2: Overview
The new MasterSounds FX unit is designed to perfectly integrate with
the entire MasterSounds DJ mixer catalogue, maximising the use of
both the Aux send system and mix insert feature in a way no other FX
unit can. FX offers three products in one box - an analogue emulating
FX section with analogue output, an analogue filter unit, and an
analogue distortion system.Analogue emulation provides 8 high quality
FX, 3 delays, 3 reverbs, a subtle noise effect, and a pitching delay.
The FX are designed to blend into the mix rather than dominate the
music, though there is considerable scope for adjustment of various
effect parameters (delay regen, filter frequency etc) using the
additional controls provided. The interface is pure MasterSounds,
with effect selection on a rotary control (though there is a 3-bit
binary LED counter), giving the unit a classic feel.
Below the FX section is an analogue filter, offering 3 filter types
(high-pass, low-pass and band-pass) along with controls to adjust the
cut-off frequency and resonance.
As the Filter section uses the insert function found on MasterSounds
mixers, the entire mix is routed through it, expanding the feature
set of each mixer. When the Filters are switched off the output from
the FX processor is still fed through the low-pass section, providing
additional scope for effect manipulation. The high-pass and low-pass
filters are each activated by pressing the large illuminated switches
and selecting both switches the filter to band-pass. Zero crossing
detection circuits help to minimise filter clicks during activation.
Finally, the stereo distortion circuit is a sophisticated DC
controlled, analogue asymmetric signal clipper, operated by a single
rotary control. Additional circuitry monitors the level of the
pre and post clipped signal, automatically applying make-up gain
when needed, indicated by the side-chain LED. The distortion control
adjusts the level from off (fully CCW) to subtle warmth (mid way)
to hard clip (fully CW), but because the clipping is asymmetric it
retains some warmth and character.
Both Aux In and Insert connections are on ¼” TRS jacks, with the Aux
In being fully balanced. Two pairs of high quality balanced Neutrik
leads are supplied with the unit, as well as a universal power supply,
enabling plug and play use anywhere in the world.
FX
Operation Manual Overview 4
