Graphics and Curves

Several programs use an interface reminiscent of an analog graphic equalizer. Two parameters are used: an x value and a y value. The x value is the horizontal position of the currently selected

graphical point, and the y value is the vertical position of the currently selected graphical point. In our example to the right, the x value is 12500 Hz, and the y value is 12.6 dB. With the cursor in the y field (as shown above), the LEFT and RIGHT CURSOR keys change the x value, while the KNOB and NUMERIC KEYPAD change the y value. With the cursor in the x field, the LEFT and RIGHT CURSOR keys, the KNOB, and the NUMERIC KEYPAD all change the x value. Use the UP and DOWN CURSOR keys to move between the graphic interface and other parameters on the screen.

For example, pressing the LEFT CURSOR key several times on the above screen would change the x value and result in the screen to the right.

Spinning the KNOB on the above screen would change the y value and result in the screen to the right.

Pressing the DOWN CURSOR key on the screen above would move the cursor from the graphic interface to the Mast parameter.

"Curve" modules behave just like "graphics," but their function is a little different.

Here we have loaded the program "Band Distort" from the "Inst - Distortion" bank. On the curves menu page in the PARAMETER area, we find two "curves." Think of the audio

signal being processed by this program as ranging in amplitude from -1 to 1. The "curve" sets up an arbitrary relationship between the input amplitude and the output amplitude. The x value is the input amplitude, and the y value is the corresponding output amplitude. In the example above, an input amplitude of -1.0 results in an output amplitude of - 0.480. By making the input amplitude slightly different from the output amplitude, you can obtain a subtle distortion.

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We could get a little wackier. How about making an input amplitude of 0.667 result in an output amplitude of -0.5? No sweat. By making the input amplitude radically different

from the output amplitude, you can obtain a "garbage compactor" distortion.

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