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ALEXANDER ADVANCED TRAINING MAGAZINETM

VOLUME 2 - ISSUE 5 - July 1, 2001

DELAY & REVERBERATION ISSUE

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FROM THE EDITOR

 Signal Processing alters the level or the timing of the signal.  In previous issues we have gone into dynamics processing (providing automatic level changes)  and equalization (altering level at specific frequencies).  In this issue we will explain Delay and Reverberation.

Modern effects units provide hundreds of delay and reverb programs at the engineer's fingertips for each mix.  Even with these programs, parameters need to be set for the specific tune that one is working on.  In this issue, we will go beyond describing the programs and into how to customize parameter settings to achieve the best results.  
Our technical postings this issue we will provide synchronization information for readers that use vintage gear, plus give you a more in-depth look at what's behind our old nemesis, phase distortion.

MIXING

USING SHORT DELAY EFFECTS

The short delay has many effects including altering the direction that a sound comes from, adding a stereo effect to mono signals, adding a jet-like swirl to the sound and making percussion have musical tone.   It's all explained in Advanced Recording Primer, Chapter 3, part 5.

USING MEDIUM DELAY EFFECTS

The double is an excellent way to increase the "thickness" of the instrument sounds.  Getting the double realistic without getting repeats or the thin sound of phase cancellation is covered along with pitch-shifting programs.  Advanced Recording Primer, Chapter 3, Part 6. 

USING LONG DELAY EFFECTS

In Advanced Recording Primer, Chapter 3, Part 7, using long delays for slap and repeated echo effects are discussed, along with matching the timing of the repeats with the tempo of the song. 

THE HISTORY OF DELAY & REVERBERATION

In Advanced Recording Primer, Chapter 3, Part 8, the basics of the "real" programs are discussed as well as the original delay and reverberation sources used prior to the digital delay/reverberation effects unit. 

SHORT REVERB AND PRE-DELAY

In Advanced Recording Primer, Chapter 3, Part 9, gated reverberation as well as alternate short reverberation programs are discussed.  Blending of short reverb programs with hall programs are discussed along with adjustment of the pre-delay parameter.

REVERB TIME PARAMETERS

In Advanced Recording Primer, Chapter 3, Part 10, reverberation time parameters, including reverb time contours are discussed.  Parameter values are given to help you get the reverb to sound like different rooms. 

MIDI PRODUCTION

VINTAGE SYNCHRONIZATION

Different synchronization signals have been used over time. In the audio field, it is not uncommon to use "vintage" gear, and therefore it is not uncommon for people in the field to need to have an understanding of earlier signals that are not considered common today.

EQUALIZATION

 ANALOG EQUALIZATION AND PHASE DISTORTION 

This article explains the technical reasons behind "Phase Distortion" and gives techniques to minimize it in your mix.

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