Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the Alesis Q20 Professional 20-Bit Master Effects Processor. To take full advantage of of the Q20Õs fuctions, and to enjoy long and trouble free use, please read this userÕs manual carefully.

How To Use This Manual

This manual is divided into the following sections describing the various modes of the Q20. Though we recommend you take time to read through the entire manual once carefully, those having general knowledge about effects devices should use the table of contents and index to reference specific functions while using this device. If you are planning to use the digital I/O, read Chapter 7 carefully.

Chapter 1: Setting Up. Deals with the necessary preparation before using, including connections to other components, such as instruments, mixing consoles, and multitrack recorders, as well as digital connections to ADAT.

Chapter 2: Your First Session with the Q20. A basic introduction to getting the unit up and running, auditioning the factory Programs, adjusting levels, comparing and storing edited Programs.

Chapter 3: Overview. A detailed look at the signal processing capabilities of the Q20, the concepts of multi-effect programming, and a description of the many available effects.

Chapter 4: Making Your Own Programs. A guided tour for programming typical single and multi-effect applications.

Chapter 5: Description of Controls. A ÒdictionaryÓ of all parameters, buttons and connectors, including Global and MIDI mode parameters.

Chapter 6: Advanced Applications. Advanced uses of the Q20, such as MIDI functions, Modulation, Local Generators, footswitches and using Òtap tempoÓ to control delay times.

Chapter 7: Digital Connections. How to use the Q20Õs digital ins and outs in an all- digital studio.

Chapter 8: Troubleshooting. Contains the Troubleshooting Index, maintenance and service information, and MIDI implementation chart.

Conventions

The buttons, knobs, and rear panel connectors are referred to in this manual just as their names appear on the Q20, using all capital letters and in brackets (Examples: [PROGRAM] button, [< BLOCK] button, [VALUE/ENTER] knob/button, [DIGITAL IN] connector, etc.).

✪When something important appears in will appear in the left margin. This vital when operating the Q20.

the manual, an icon (like the one on the left) symbol indicates that this information is

Q20 Reference Manual

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