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Table Of Contents
Chapter 12 Specialized 137
Exciter
The Exciter generates high frequency components that are not part of the original
signal, using a nonlinear distortion process that resembles overdrive and distortion
effects. Unlike those effects, however, the Exciter passes the input signal through a
highpass filter before feeding it into the harmonics (distortion) generator. This results in
the artificial harmonics added to the signal having frequencies at least one octave
above the threshold of the highpass filter. The distorted signal is then mixed with the
original, dry signal.
You can use the Exciter to add life to digital recordings. It is especially well suited to
audio tracks with a weak treble frequency range. The Exciter is also useful for
enhancing guitar tracks.
Exciter Parameters
 Frequency slider and field: Sets the cutoff frequency (in Hertz) of the highpass filter.
The input signal passes through this filter before (harmonic) distortion is introduced.
 Frequency display: The graphic displays the frequency range that is used as the
source signal for the process.
 Input button: When selected, the original (pre-effect) signal is mixed with the
effected signal. If you disable Input, only the effected signal is heard.
 Harmonics knob and field: Sets the amount of the effected signal that is mixed with
the original signal (expressed as a percentage). If the Input button is turned off, this
has no effect on the signal. In most cases, higher Frequency and Harmonics values
are preferable, because human ears cannot easily distinguish between the artificial
and original high frequencies.
 Color 1 and Color 2 buttons: Click Color 1 to generate a less dense harmonic
distortion spectrum. Click Color 2 for a more intense distortion. Color 2 also
introduces more (unwanted) intermodulation distortions.