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Chapter 23 Ultrabeat 321
The Distortion Unit
Depending on the order determined by the red arrow in the filter section, the
distortion unit is inserted either before or after the multimode filter. It provides either a
bit crusher or distortion effect.
The desired mode is activated by clicking on the Crush or Distort button. The active
effect is indicated in red. If neither button is red the distortion unit is bypassed
Note: The distortion effect is modeled on an analog distortion unit, which distorts the
sound by overdriving the level. The bit crusher uses a digital process that deliberately
reduces the digital resolution of the sound (measured in bits), achieving an intentional
digital coloration of the sound. Both methods lead to distortions that are as tonally
divergent as the two approaches. Distortion offers a more “analog” feel while the bit
crusher can’t hide its digital origins (nor is it supposed to!).
The bit crusher and distortion effect are adjusted with the same three dials:
• Drive: Turning this parameter up increases the degree of distortion.
• Color: This parameter determines the basic sound of the distortion. Higher values
help you achieve a brighter sound and lower values lead to a darker, warmer tone.
• Level/Clip: The output volume is set here (Level) when in distortion mode. In bit
crusher mode, this dial determines the level required before distortion (Clip) begins.
Output Section
Depending on the status of each Filter Bypass button, the output signals of both
oscillators, the ring modulator and the noise generator are routed either; directly or via
the filter section to the output section of Ultrabeat. The output section passes signals
through both equalizers (EQ) and the pan/stereo spread section (in a pre-configured
order) before the final level is set, and the trigger behavior (of the signals) is adjusted.
2 Band EQ
Both equalizer bands have almost identical features. Their parameters are explained
jointly, but you can, of course, adjust band 1 (the upper EQ in the output section) and
band 2 separately.
Clicking on the Band 1 and Band 2 labels turns the individual band on or off. When
active, the field is red. If neither EQ is activated, the signal passes through unaffected.
The EQ Type buttons switch between two different types of EQs: shelving and peak.
In shelving mode, all frequencies above or below the set frequency are either increased
or reduced. In peak mode, only frequencies located near the set frequency are affected.