Suhr Alexa User manual

User Guide

Table of Contents

Overview � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �3

Powering Alexa � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �4

Getting Connected (Mono) � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �4

Getting Connected (Stereo)� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �5

Selecting Buffer Bypass / True Bypass � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �6

Channel Selection / Bypass� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �7

Controls � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �8

Waveforms � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �9

Selecting Expression Control / Tap Tempo � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 10

Using an Expression Pedal with Alexa � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 11

Using Tap Tempo with Alexa � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �12

3-Position Slide Switch � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �12

FX Link (External Control) � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �13

Sample Settings � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �14

Technical Specications � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �15

Warranty � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �15

Overview

The Suhr Alexa is a two channel, analog stereo chorus with digital control.

Utiilizing bucket brigade technology, classic chorus tones are achieved with

the extra flexibility of new waveforms, tap tempo and expression speed con-

trol.

Each channel contains six unique waveforms that allow you to tailor your

modulation to suite your needs. The triangle and sine waveforms are clas-

sic waveforms used in a majority of choruses, however there are two new

custom waveforms, the rotary and photo cell waveforms that allow the Al-

exa to achieve swirling rotary sounds or pulsing vibe-like sounds. With the

final ramp up and ramp down waveforms, rhythmic chorus tones can be

achieved that give a delay-like effect on sustained notes.

Each channel contains an individual Speed, Depth, Delay and Waveform

option. Channel A contains a switch that allows for Vibrato as well. Wether

you want to have a chorus that can switch from slow lush chorus to a fast

rotary chorus with a hit of a botton, or use it like no chorus has been used

before with the ramp waveforms, Alexa can cover a large range of analog

chorus tones and more.

Thank you for purchasing the Suhr Alexa Analog Chorus Pedal.

Please take the time to read this manual to get the most out of the pedal.

The more you familiarize yourself with the features of this pedal, the more

you will enjoy its benets and maximize its potential.

Powering Alexa

DC Input: Alexa powers with a 9Vdc regulated, center-negative power

supply that can supply 100mA or more, such as a BOSS PSA power

supply.

Exp / Tap

Getting Connected (Mono)

OUTPUTS

L(MONO)

FX LINK

INPUT

OFF

1 2

Input: Plug the cable from your guitar into here, or from the previous

effect’s output.

Output: Plug a cable from here to an amp or another effect’s input.

Getting Connected (Stereo)

Input: Plug the cable from your guitar into here, or from the previous

effect’s output.

Output Right: Plug a cable from here to the right amplifier (or another

effect’s input) for the right channel of the chorus.

Output Left: Plug a cable from here to the left amplifier (or another

effect’s input) for the left channel of the chorus.

BUF / TRU-BYP switch: Located on the inside of the pedal are two

slide switches. The right switch determines if the pedal is in buffered or

true bypass mode. Switch to buffer bypass (BUF) for stereo operation.

Restart the pedal by powering it off and back on to finish setting it in

buffer bypass mode.

WARNING: The true bypass feature is dedicated for the left output only. When

using Alexa in stereo, please set the pedal to buffer bypass, which is located

on a switch on the inside of the pedal. When turning the effect off in true by-

pass, the Right channel is disconnected from the input. Buffer Bypass mode

sends a buffered signal through both outputs, and is the mode that should be

used for stereo scenarios. Alexa is shipped in buffer bypass mode.

OUTPUTS

L(MONO)

FX LINK

INPUT

OFF

1 32

Selecting Buffer Bypass / True Bypass

When turning off the pedal, the outputs can receive a buffered signal (buffer

bypass) of the input, or the left mono output can receive a non-buffered signal

(true bypass) of the input. An internal slide switch determines whether Alexa

uses buffer bypass (labeled BUF) or true bypass (labeled TRU-BYP).

Important: Switching from one mode to another requires the pedal to be

powered off and re-powered to take effect.

Channel Selection / Bypass

Alexa has two channels (green and red) with independent settings that are

selected by the switch labeld A/B [2]. The channels can be set for the same

sound on each channel with slight modifications, or they can be radically dif-

ferent.

The left side is Channel 1 and is indicated by a green LED above the A/B

footswitch [2].

The right side is Channel 2 and is indicated a red LED above the A/B footswitch

[2].

A / BOn/Off

VibratoChorus

Depth BDelay BDepth ADelay A

Speed B

Speed A

1 2

Stepping on the A/B footswitch will toggle between channels A and B.

When the LED is green, Channel 1’s settings are used.

When the LED is red, Channel 2’s settings are used.

Stepping on the ON/OFF footswitch to bypasses the effect.

NOTE: If the internal bypass switch on the inside of the pedal is switched

to BUF, both left and right outputs get a buffered input signal. If the in-

ternal bypass switch is switch to TRU-BYP (MONO ONLY), an unbuff-

ered input signal will pass through the left output only.

Channel Selection

Bypass

Controls

Waveform Selector: Chooses one of the 6 waveform shapes that will modu-

late the Vibrato / Chorus. A more indepth description of each waveform is on

page 9.

Speed: Adjusts the speed at which the modulation occurs. Turning the knob

clockwise sets the speed to up to 10Hz. Turning the knob counter clockwise

sets the speed down to 1/2Hz.

Delay: Adjusts the delay point that chorus modulates around. This ranges

from 10ms to 40ms.

Tip: Increasing the Delay typically gives a “wider” sound. If the chorus’s pitch

wobbles too dramatically, counteract by decreasing the Depth control to keep

a smoother chorus sound.

Depth: The depth knob reduces (counter clockwise) or boosts (clockwise)

the amount of modulation.

Chorus / Vibrato: This switch is only active on channel A. This allows you to

turn Channel A into a vibrato effect (pitch bending).

A / BOn/Off

VibratoChorus

Depth BDelay BDepth ADelay A

Speed B

Speed A

Waveforms

Alexa contains six musical waveforms to choose from when dialing in a cho-

rus/vibrato setting.

A / BOn/Off

VibratoChorus

Depth BDelay BDepth ADelay A

Speed B

Speed A

Triangle: A classic waveform used in a majority of analog choruses.

Results in a smooth modulation. Good for a smooth lush chorus with

less noticeable pitch bending.

Sinewave: Another common waveform used on choruses. Sinewave

modulation can give a throb sound, and is a great waveform for Vibra-

to, as the pitch bends evenly.

Rotary: This waveform is a custom shape used to emulate the swirling

sound of a rotary speaker. It is similar to the Triangle shape in smooth-

ness.

Photocell: This waveform emulates the photocell throb effect found

on some modulation effects that use a light dependent component to

control the modulation. It has a pulsing assymetrical shape and sound.

Ramp Down: This waveform ramps the modulation downward and re-

peats, which results in a rhythmic effect that is delay-like on sustained

notes.

Ramp Up: This waveform modulates in an upward direction then re-

peats, which results in a rhythmic effect.

Selecting Expression Control / Tap Tempo

Alexa’s chorus speed can be controlled via an Expression pedal in Ex-

pression mode, or a Momentary Switch in Tap Tempo mode through

the 1/4” TRS jack located on the right side of the pedal.

The function of the EXP / TAP jack is determined by an internal slide

switch. When set to (TAP), the jack takes a mono cable to a momen-

tary switch. When set to (EXP), the jack takes a stereo cable to an ex-

pression pedal. When changing modes, the pedal must be powered off

before taking effect.

Exp / Tap

Using an Expression Pedal with Alexa

Plug a stereo 1/4” phone cable into the EXP / TAP jack, and into a low

impedance expression pedal, such as a BOSS FV-500L.

Make sure to set the internal EXP / TAP slide switch (pg 10) to EXP. If

set to TAP, make sure to unplug and re-plug the power after changing

it to EXP.

Press the heel back on the expression pedal to get the slowest mod-

ulation speed (1/2 Hz). The Speed A & Speed B knobs sets the max-

imum speed for their channel while the pedal is toe down. The maxi-

mum speed achievable is 10 Hz.

Exp / Tap

LOW IMPEDANCE EXPRESSION PEDAL

Speed = 1/2 HzSpeed = Speed Knob setting

Max = 10Hz

Using Tap Tempo with Alexa

Plug a mono 1/4” phone cable into the EXP / TAP jack, and into a mo-

mentary footswitch.

Make sure to set the internal EXP / TAP slide switch (pg 10) to TAP. If

set to EXP, make sure to unplug and re-plug the power after changing

it to TAP.

Push the momentary footswitch twice to set a new speed for Alexa

Exp / Tap

3-Position Slide Switch

At the top of the pedal between the Input and Output jack is a 3 position tog-

gle switch.

• When set to ON, the pedal powers on with the effect active.

• When pushed towards OFF, the pedal powers on with the effect by-

passed.

• When set to FL (center), the pedal’s power state is controlled externally

via the FX LINK jack.

FX Link (External Control)

Alexa contains an 1/8” stereo TRS input jack called FX LINK that allows the

pedal to be controlled by an effects switching system with TRS control output

jacks, such as the BOSS ES-8 or ES-5.

OUTPUTS

L(MONO)

FX LINK

INPUT

OFF

1 2

Connect a TRS 1/8” cable into the FX LINK jack from your effects

switching system. A 1/4” to 1/8” stereo cable would typically be used.

Set the 3-position slide switch to the center (FL) on startup for external

control

To Switcher Control

1/8" Stereo Cable

To FX LINK jack

SEect OFF

SEect ON

SChannel 1

SChannel 2

T = TIP

R = RING

S = SLEEVE

T R S

A connection between the Tip and Sleeve controls Alexa’s ON/OFF state.

• When Tip is connected to Sleeve, Alexa is ON

• When Tip is disconnected from Sleeve, Alexa is OFF

A connection between the Ring and Sleeve controls Alexa’s channels.

• When Ring is diconnected from Sleeve, Channel 1 is ON

• When Ring is connected to Sleeve, Channel 2 is ON

Setup

Sample Settings

VibratoChorus

Depth BDelay BDepth ADelay A

Speed B

Speed A

VibratoChorus

Depth BDelay BDepth ADelay A

Speed B

Speed A

Channel A: Lush Chorus Channel B: Fast Sine Rotary Channel A: Vibrato

Any of these sample settings can be set up on either channel with the exception of the Vibrato setting, which only works on Channel A

Channel A: Slow Sweep Channel B: Photo Cell Throb Channel A: Ramp Down Channel B: Ramp Up

VibratoChorus

Depth BDelay BDepth ADelay A

Speed B

Speed A

VibratoChorus

Depth BDelay BDepth ADelay A

Speed B

Speed A

Channel B: Fast Rotary

Technical Specications Warranty

Input Impedance: 470K Ω

Output Impedance: 470 Ω

Power Connector: 9Vdc, center negative, 2�1mm x 5�5mm

Operating voltage: 9Vdc

Maximum Voltage: 9�3Vdc

Over Voltage Protection: Yes

Current Consumption: 55mA

Dimensions: 4�875”(W) x 3�875”(D) x 1�375”(H)

Weight: 1�05 lbs

FX Link Connector: ⅛” TRS jack

FX Link Max Voltage: 5Vdc

Shield -> Tip: Active Pedal

Shield -> Ring: Toggle A/B Channel

ROHS Compliant: Yes

JS Technologies, Inc. (JST) warrants for lifetime from date of purchase by the

initial retail purchaser that this product shall be free from defects in workman-

ship. Electronic components such as capacitors, resistors, filters, transformers,

jacks, and pots are covered for 5 years. Any parts determined defective by JST

within the five (5) year term shall be repaired or replaced by JST without charge

for parts and labor provided the unit is returned, transportation costs prepaid, to

JS Technologies, Inc., 601 Crane Street, Unit A, Lake Elsinore, CA 92530, or to

such facility authorized by JST. JST will pay shipping costs to return the unit to

its owner. Defects in workmanship will be determined by JST for limited lifetime

coverage.

This warranty does not cover damage caused by accident, misuse, abuse, ne-

glect, unauthorized or improperly performed repairs, alterations, and/or wear

and tear occasioned by use of the product, and does not include any expense

for inconvenience or loss of use while the product is being repaired or replaced.

JST expressly disclaims any liability for consequential damages arising from the

sale, use, or inability to use the product. Any warranty implied by law, includ-

ing any warranty of merchantability or fitness, is expressly limited to the one (5)

year warranty term for the parts on our amplifiers and electronic products. The

foregoing statements of warranty are exclusive and in lieu of all other remedies.

Workmanship lifetime warranty is limited strictly to the original retailer purchaser

of the instrument registered with JST within 10 days of purchase from an autho-

rized JST dealer or distributor. JST will pay shipping costs to return the unit to its

owner within the mainland U.S.

The above warranty policy only applies to customers in USA. If you are an in-

ternational customer, please check with your distributor and the dealer in your

country for warranty matters. Warranty issues must be handled through your

dealer or distributor. If you are an international customer who purchased (or

plan to purchase) from a US dealer, we can handle warranty matters direct but

you will be responsible for shipping both ways. We encourage international cus-

tomers to purchase through your local distributor or dealer for this reason. Our

international distributors are set up to handle warranty issues in their respective

countries. If you do not have an authorized Suhr dealer in your country, please

NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are de-

signed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency

energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guaran-

tee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be deter-

mined 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 or relo-

cate the receiving antenna. - Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver. - Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to

which the receiver is connected. - Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/ TV technician for help.

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and