Chapter 3 - Overview
processing within the block itself (for example, a boost in EQ or feedback in a chorus or delay). Output clipping can be controlled using the Master Effects Level parameter in the [MIX] function. The OUTPUT LEVEL control is analog, and cannot lower the distortion caused when the output of multiple blocks are too loud for the output D/A converter to handle.
Keep in mind when setting routing levels that each time you double the number of sources, the output rises 6 dB. If there are four blocks feeding another block, those routes may all need to be set to
It is also important to note that each Òpatch cordÓ in a Program uses 1% of the total DSP power available. However, if the signal is attenuated (by setting the level below +0dB), 2% of DSP is used. The following section discusses how the Q20 reacts when DSP is nearly fully taxed. One way to free up more DSP power when you need it is to set some or all of your Òpatch cordÓ levels to +0dB.
The L/R IN
These appear on the far left side of the Block section in the display. They are not selectable with the [< BLOCK >] buttons. This is because we are always routing from the L/R IN and, in keeping with our convention, all routing is done from the destination Block, not from the source.
Reaching the Outputs - L/R OUT
The L OUT and R OUT are separately selectable (like Blocks) for routing purposes. Whichever Block is determined to be the final effect in the chain (whether your Program has one or multiple Blocks), it needs to be routed to the L/R OUT in order for you to hear it . This can be done in mono (if just one channel is needed) by routing one or more Block outputs to either the L OUT or R OUT, or in stereo by routing to both the L and R OUT.
Limit Handling
Within the limits of the available sample memory and DSP, the Blocks can be linked in any order, in almost any combination of the four basic types. For instance, you might have two EQ Blocks followed by four pitch Effect Blocks; or one Block of each (EQ, Pitch, Delay) type on the left channel and one of each type on the right channel, followed by a stereo reverb (a total of 7 Blocks).
Because the Q20 is so flexible, occasionally you will have a combination of effects and/or parameters that may overtax either the available memory or DSP power on board the unit. When you attempt to program beyond the Q20Õs capabilities, no harm will be done but one of four error messages will appear in the display indicating you have exceeded the unitÕs limits. This means you have to create your Program in a slightly different manner to obtain the final result you want. If you are into programming Òcomputationally intensiveÓ combinations of effects, you may have to learn to compromise in certain situations.
There are four categories to consider with regards to programming limitations: DSP power, Effect Memory, LFOs and Microprocessor Assistance.
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