But versatility and power often lead to unnecessary complexity…and confusion. The Alesis Quadraverb 2 overcomes this with its proprietary architecture – Octal Processing, which is both a way to organise and a way to look at the Q2’s power.
Features
- Completely Independent Dual-Channel Operation with Separate L/ R Input Levels
- 100 Preset and 100 User-Variable Programs
- Large Custom-Designed Graphic User Interface with “Virtual Patch Cables”
- 20Hz – 20kHz Frequency Response
- 24 Bit Internal Processing
- One-Touch Front Panel Value/Enter Wheel
- +4dBu or -10dBV Operation
- MIDl In, Out/Thru
- Real-Time MIDI Parameter Control
Octal Processing allows you to use eight of Alesis Quadraverb 2’s effects blocks simultaneously in any order. Its large, dense reverb algorithms can be combined with thick doubling and pitch effects. You can then add digital equalisation and versatile, powerful delay without sacrificing quality for quantity. Alesis Quadraverb 2 not only provides excellent effect algorithms, but also the processing power to use eight of them simultaneously for every multi-effect application imaginable.
To organise its master effects, Alesis Quadraverb 2 provides a digital routing matrix that shows each effect graphically in a custom backlit LCD display. Routings are displayed as ‘Virtual patch cables’ which can be connected between the left channel, right channel or stereo mix of each effect block. Plus, each block can simultaneously receive a mix of inputs from the other blocks as well as from the input jacks. There is a total of programs in the Alesis Quadraverb 2, made up of 100 great sounding factory presets and 100 user-editable programs. You can define each effect block as a reverb, delay, pitch or equaliser effect.
In each of these categories, Alesis Quadraverb 2 has a wide variety of effect algorithms that can accommodate any application in music recording, live performance or audio post-production for film and video. Powerful real time MIDI control is accomplished via Alesis Quadraverb 2’s MIDI Modulation Matrix. Virtually any parameter of any effects block is available for modulation.
At the root of Alesis Quadraverb 2’s awesome processing power is an advanced internal digital signal processor fiat delivers 24-bit resolution and operates at a blazing 6 million instructions per second. Employing its highly evolved algorithms, all of Q2’s processing power can be spread out into multi-effects or focused on a single program, ensuring that the entire processing capacity of the Alesis Quadraverb 2 is utilised regardless of the program.
Alesis Quadraverb 2’s input and output connections are on balanced 1/4″ TRS 3-conductor jacks. TRS connectors enable Alesis Quadraverb 2 to interface to professional-level +4 dBu equipment. Of course, you can also easily hook up to standard 1/4″ unbalanced -10dBV gear when necessary. Either way, Alesis Quadraverb 2 provides completely independent dual channel operation each with individual Left/ Right front panel input level controls. This means you can send a vocal to one channel and an instrument to the other channel, process each independently using the full capabilities of Octal Processing and provide a final two channel mix to a single stereo return, freeing up an entire effects return on your mixer.
Q2’s powerful DSP and generous RAM memory provide powerful Delay parameters including up to 5 seconds of delay time, available for Mono, Stereo or Ping Pong delay effects, Beat-Per-Minute and Note Value, as well as Tap Tempo Delays that can be controlled from a foot pedal or directly from the front panel. Multitap delays offer 5 individual delay taps, each with their own volume, delay time, panning, individual feedback and master feedback controls.
Pitch based effects include Mono and Stereo Chorusing, Mono and Stereo Flanging, Phase Shifting, Pitch Detune and Ring Modulation. There’s full control over LFO modulation depth and speed, predelay, feedback and choice of sine wave or square wave. Quad Chorus is a dramatically enhanced version of stereo chorusing involving four delayed signals, phase-offset by 90 degrees.
Alesis Quadraverb 2’s analogue-to-digital conversion is handled by state of the art 18 bit 128 times oversampling Delta-Sigma converters. Oversampling ADCs provide a high degree of error correction during e conversion process, keeping your signal free of degradation. Q2’s converters use the industry standard 48kHz sampling frequency. On the digital-to-analogue side, Q2’s 18-bit DACs use 64 limes oversampling and feed the balanced stereo audio outputs with a quiet, crystal-clear signal.
Alesis Quadraverb 2 is the only effects processor in its price range that offers digital inputs and outputs. On Q2’s rear panel, you’ll find the ADAT Multi-Channel Optical Digital Interface. This fibre optic digital I/O port allows direct digital connection of Alesis Quadraverb 2 with an ADAT Digital Recording System for processing entirely in the digital domain.
Also, you can use the Alesis Quadraverb 2’s digital 1/0 in conjunction with equipment from The ADAT Group of 3rd party developers, like Digidesign, Roland, Apogee, and many others. You can also use the Alesis A1-I Digital interface to transfer from the Q2 to the AES/EBU or S/PDIF formats for direct digital recording to hard disk recorders, DATs and CD masters.
The Alesis Quadraverb 2 Dual Channel Octal Processing Master Effects with Digital I/O is the new flagship of the award-winning Alesis effects processing line. It was created with a very specific purpose in mind: to make a single processor that offers the sonic quality of a high-end primary vocal reverb unit while providing extremely powerful multi-effects capabilities.
Alesis Quadraverb 2’s architecture was designed to provide an inherent ease of use that allows you to access its tremendous power without becoming confused by intricate programming. And due to its advanced internal processor and extremely innovative software, Q2 is better sounding, more technologically advanced and more versatile than any Alesis effects processor to date.
When it’s time to record vocals, you can’t settle for anything less than master-quality reverb. World-class studios have been aware of this for a long time, and many of them dedicate a large portion of their equipment budget to reverb units that provide the pristine sonic quality necessary for professional vocal recording. This is their primary reverb, the one they turn to when the only option is perfection.
Many of Alesis Quadraverb 2’s programs were developed with the assistance of industry pros who know what it takes to get the ultimate vocal reverb sound. They know that the human voice, with its wide dynamic range and variety of tonal content, is the acid test of a great reverb. Reverb that sounds great on the vocals will sound incredible on drums, guitar, keys or anything else.
Alesis Quadraverb 2 also provides the programming power to fine tune your programs with meticulous detail. Each reverb algorithm offers advanced parameters only found in the most expensive dedicated studio reverbs and yet Q2 is uncommonly affordable. Q2’s Large Plate algorithm provides standard parameters like Decay, Diffusion and Predelay, but also includes features like Reverberation Swirl, which adds a great stereo chorus-like effect to the output of the reverb. On the Plate 2 algorithm, parameters like Reflection Level and Spread allow you to control the amplitude and density of early reflections to create extremely realistic space and depth for vocal tracks, pianos and orchestral instruments.
A great vocal reverb like the Q2 offers all the professional performance specs you need. Flat frequency response from 20Hz to 20kHz. Dynamic range over 92dB (A-weighted). Total distortion less than 0.005% at peak level. Crosstalk better than 90dB. Specs like these are typical of the world’s most elite signal processing gear.