Alesis Stereo Equalizer DEQ830 User Manual

Reference Manual  
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DEQ830 Key Features .................................................................... 4  
Symboles utilisés dans ce produit.............................................................9  
Folgen Sie bitte diesen Vorkehrungen, wenn dieses  
Step 3: Store the Program............................................................. 16  
Installing in a Rack ........................................................................ 19  
Thermal Considerations in Rack Mounting ............................. 19  
AC Power Hookup........................................................................... 20  
Using the DEQ830 in another country...................................................20  
Connecting Inputs and Outputs.................................................. 21  
Connecting to the Channel or Main Inserts of a mixing  
console..........................................................................................................21  
Connecting to the inserts on an instrument amplifier..........................23  
Connecting to equipment with XLR inputs and outputs.....................23  
Connecting to equipment with ADAT Optical inputs and  
outputs..........................................................................................................23  
About Audio Cables ........................................................................ 25  
Chapter Three: Basics of Equalization...................27  
What is equalization? ..................................................................... 27  
Description of the Front Panel.................................................... 28  
Description of the Basic Modes ................................................... 31  
Basic operation: Program mode.................................................. 34  
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1
Table Of Contents  
Basic operation: Save Curve mode ............................................. 41  
Basic operation: Utility mode ...................................................... 45  
Demonstration mode.................................................................................50  
Chapter Four: Applications.......................................57  
General EQ tips ............................................................................... 57  
Filtering effects ............................................................................... 58  
Settings chart................................................................................... 59  
Chapter Five: Troubleshooting ................................61  
Line Conditioners and Protectors .............................................. 61  
Care and Maintenance................................................................... 61  
Troubleshooting Index ..............................................................................62  
Specifications...................................................................65  
Audio Performance ....................................................................................65  
Mechanical ...................................................................................................65  
Warranty/Contact Alesis ............................................67  
Alesis Limited Warranty.............................................................................67  
Alesis Contact Information.......................................................................68  
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2
Introduction  
Welcome!  
Thank you for purchasing the Alesis DEQ830. It is a versatile  
product, and whether it becomes a part of your studio or finds its  
place in your live setup, we know it will serve you well. Since 1984,  
we’ve been designing and building creative tools for the audio  
community. We believe in our products, because we've heard the  
results that creative people like you achieve with them.  
For more effective  
service and product  
update notices, please  
register your DEQ830  
online at:  
One of the goals of Alesis is to make high-quality music  
technology available to everyone. This Reference Manual is an  
important part of that, because in it we try to present the  
DEQ830’s features in a way that is easy to understand and  
remember. But even beyond explaining each feature and  
parameter, this manual can be a key that unlocks an application for  
the DEQ830 that you may not have considered. So we try to write  
our manuals as carefully as we build our products.  
The goal of this manual is to get you the information you need as  
quickly as possible, with a minimum of hassle. We hope we've  
achieved that. If not, please drop us an email and give us your  
suggestions on how we could improve future editions of this  
manual.  
We hope your investment will bring you many years of creative  
enjoyment and help you achieve your goals.  
Sincerely,  
The people of Alesis  
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3
 
Introduction  
DEQ830 Key Features  
1. Offers the best of digital technology and analog-style control: a  
graphic display with instant editing of any band or  
combination of bands, plus the ability to store programs  
2. 100 user-definable programs, each of which holds 8 channels  
of EQ settings  
3. 100 user-definable curves, each of which holds 30 bands of  
EQ settings  
4. 48 KHz sampling rate, 24-bit A/D/A, 28-bit internal  
processing  
5. Eight channels of equalization, independent or linkable  
6. 30 EQ bands per channel, spanning 25 Hz-20 KHz in 1/3-  
octave increments  
7. +/- 12 dB boost/cut with center detente  
8. Constant Q technology for finer control of audio  
9. LOCK function for “set and forget” situations, which prevents  
accidental reprogramming  
10. Retrieve Curve mode for auditioning and selecting stored EQ  
curves  
11. Individual Channel Level adjustment per program  
12. Master Level adjustment  
13. [LINK] button for quick creation of matched EQ curves  
14. Ability to bypass any or all channels using [BYPASS] and  
[BYPASS ALL] buttons  
15. Configurable editing modes to suit the way you work  
16. Ability to copy settings from one channel to another  
17. Easy-to-read 7-segment Numerical LED Display  
18. More than 350 Band Gain LEDs, making it easy to read EQ  
curves from a distance  
19. Signal Level, Clip and Bypass LEDs for each channel  
20. Balanced input/output (TRS)  
21. Compact 1-space rackmount profile  
22. Real-time Analyzer (RTA) mode for visual feedback of  
incoming and outgoing audio signals, with selectable metering  
modes  
23. ADAT Optical input/output, auto-sensing of incoming digital  
audio  
24. Clock selectable between 44.1k and 48k sampling rates  
25. MIDI in/out for program changes and sys-ex storage  
26. +4 dBu/-10 dBV operating level switch on rear panel  
For full operating specifications, see page 65.  
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4
 
Introduction  
How to Use This Manual  
This manual is divided into the following sections describing the  
various functions of and applications for the DEQ830. While it's a  
good idea to read through the entire manual once carefully, those  
having general knowledge about audio equipment should use the  
table of contents to look up specific functions.  
Helpful tips and advice are  
highlighted in a shaded box  
like this.  
Chapter 1: Quick Start Guide. If you're already familiar with  
equalization, this will get you started using the DEQ830 right away.  
This section presents the essential elements of hooking up the unit  
and using it for the first time.  
The names of specific buttons  
on the DEQ830 are printed in  
a bold font and bracketed:  
e.g., the [BYPASS] button.  
Chapter 2: Connections. This section gives detailed instructions for  
connecting the DEQ830 to a variety of typical audio systems.  
Chapter 3: Basics of Equalization. This section describes what an  
equalizer does and explains the function of each of the controls.  
Chapter 4: Applications. Skip to this section for tips on using the  
DEQ830 in a variety of settings. You’ll also find a blank chart  
representing the DEQ830’s 30 bands of EQ. You can make copies  
of this chart and use them to keep track of some of your  
favorite settings.  
When something important  
appears in the manual, an  
exclamation mark (like the  
one shown at left) will appear  
with some explanatory text.  
This symbol indicates that  
this information is vital when  
operating the DEQ830.  
Chapter 5: Troubleshooting. Near the end of the manual you will  
find troubleshooting tips and a complete list of the DEQ830’s  
specifications.  
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5
 
Introduction  
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6
Important Safety  
Instructions  
Important Safety Instructions (English)  
Safety symbols used in this product  
This symbol alerts the user that there are important  
operating and maintenance instructions in the literature  
accompanying this unit.  
This symbol warns the user of uninsulated voltage within  
the unit that can cause dangerous electric shocks.  
This symbol warns the user that output connectors contain  
voltages that can cause dangerous electrical shock.  
Please follow these precautions when using  
this product:  
1. Read these instructions.  
2. Keep these instructions.  
3. Heed all warnings.  
4. Follow all instructions.  
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.  
6. Clean only with a damp cloth. Do not spray any liquid cleaner  
onto the faceplate, as this may damage the front panel controls  
or cause a dangerous condition.  
7. Install in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.  
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat  
registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that  
produce heat.  
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or  
grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one  
wider than the other. A grounding-type plug has two blades  
and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third  
prong are provided for your safety. When the provided plug  
does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for  
replacement of the obsolete outlet.  
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched,  
particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point  
where they exit from the apparatus.  
11. Use only attachments or accessories specified by the  
manufacturer.  
Continued next page  
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7
 
Important Safety Instructions  
12. Use only with a cart, stand, bracket, or table designed for use  
with professional audio or music equipment. In any  
installation, make sure that injury or damage will not result  
from cables pulling on the apparatus and its mounting. If a  
cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus  
combination to avoid injury from tip-over.  
13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused  
for long periods of time.  
14. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is  
required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way,  
such as when the power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid  
has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the  
apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not  
operate normally, or has been dropped.  
15. This unit produces heat when operated normally. Operate in a  
well-ventilated area with at least six inches of clearance from  
peripheral equipment.  
16. This product, in combination with an amplifier and  
headphones or speakers, may be capable of producing sound  
levels that could cause permanent hearing loss. Do not operate  
for a long period of time at a high volume level or at a level  
that is uncomfortable. If you experience any hearing loss or  
ringing in the ears, you should consult an audiologist.  
17. Do not expose the apparatus to dripping or splashing. Do not  
place objects filled with liquids (flower vases, soft drink cans,  
coffee cups) on the apparatus.  
18. WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do  
not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture.  
19. The unit is an audio device, whose power supply may be  
subject to surrounding electronic interference. Once installed,  
if you find that the unit is malfunctioning, the problem may  
be solved by resetting the unit, relocating the unit, or by  
installing a line-conditioner.  
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8
Important Safety Instructions  
Instructions de Sécurité Importantes (French)  
Symboles utilisés dans ce produit  
Ce symbole alèrte l’utilisateur qu’il existe des instructions  
de fonctionnement et de maintenance dans la documentation  
jointe avec ce produit.  
Ce symbole avertit l’utilisateur de la présence d’une  
tension non isolée à l’intérieur de l’appareil pouvant engendrer des  
chocs électriques.  
Ce symbole prévient l'utilisateur de la présence de tensions  
sur les raccordements de sorties, représentant un risque  
d'électrocution.  
Veuillez suivre ces précautions lors de  
l’utilisation de l’appareil:  
1. Lisez ces instructions.  
2. Gardez ces instructions.  
3. Tenez compte de tous les avertissements.  
4. Suivez toutes les instructions.  
5. N’utilisez pas cet allareil à proximité de l’eau.  
6. Ne nettoyez qu’avec un chiffon humide. Il est potentiellement  
dangereux d'utiliser des pulvérisateurs ou nettoyants liquides  
sur cet appareil.  
7. Installez selon les recommandations du constructeur.  
8. Ne pas installer à proximilé de sources de chaleur comme  
radiateurs, cuisinière ou autre appareils (don’t les  
amplificateurs) produisant de la chaleur.  
9. Ne pas enlever la prise de terre du cordon secteur. Une prise  
murale avec terre deux broches et une troisièrme reliée à la  
terre. Cette dernière est présente pour votre sécurité. Si le  
cordon secteur ne rentre pas dans la prise de courant,  
demandez à un électricien qualifié de remplacer la prise.  
10. Evitez de marcher sur le cordon secteur ou de le pincer, en  
particulier au niveau de la prise, et aux endroits où il sor de  
l’appareil.  
11. N’utilisez que des accessoires spécifiés par le constructeur.  
Suite de la page suivante  
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9
 
Important Safety Instructions  
12. N’utilisez qu’avec un stand, ou table conçus pour l’utilisation  
d’audio professionnel ou instruments de musique. Dans toute  
installation, veillez de ne rien endommager à cause de câbles  
qui tirent sur des appareils et leur support.  
13. Débranchez l’appareil lors d’un orage ou lorsqu’il n’est pas  
utilisé pendant longtemps.  
14. Faites réparer par un personnel qualifié. Une réparation est  
nécessaire lorsque l’appareil a été endommagé de quelque sorte  
que ce soit, par exemple losrque le cordon secteur ou la prise  
sont endommagés, si du liquide a coulé ou des objets se sont  
introduits dans l’appareil, si celui-ci a été exposé à la pluie ou à  
l’humidité, ne fonctionne pas normalement ou est tombé.  
15. Puisque son fonctionement normale génère de la chaleur,  
placez cet appareil au moins 15cm. des équipments  
péripheriques et assurez que l’emplacement permet la  
circulation de l’air.  
16. Ce produit, utilisé avec un amplificateur et un casque ou des  
enceintes, est capable de produite des niveaux sonores pouvant  
engendrer une perte permanente de l’ouïe. Ne l’utilisez pas  
pendant longtemps à un niveau sonore élevé ou à un niveau  
non confortable. Si vous remarquez une perte de l’ouïe ou un  
bourdonnement dans les oreilles, consultez un spécialiste.  
17. N'exposez pas l'appareil à l'égoutture ou à l'éclaboussement.  
Ne placez pas les objets remplis de liquides (vases à fleur,  
boîtes de boisson non alcoolique, tasses de café) sur l'appareil.  
18. AVERTISSEMENT: Pour réduire le risque du feu ou de  
décharge électrique, n'exposez pas cet appareil à la pluie ou à  
l'humidité.  
19. Quand ce produit est en fonction, l'alimentation secteur peut  
provoquer des interférences sur la fonction surround. Une  
fois installé, si vous détectez que le produit ne fonctionne pas  
correctement, le problème peut être résolu en effectuant un  
reset de l'appareil ( débrancher l'alimentation et rebrancher la  
après quelques secondes ) ou insérez l'alimentation de  
l'appareil dans une prise secteur équipée d'une masse correcte.  
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10  
Important Safety Instructions  
Lesen Sie bitte die folgende Sicherheitshinweise (German)  
Sicherheit Symbole verwendet in diesem  
Produkt  
Dieses Symbol alarmiert den Benutzer, daß es wichtige  
Funktionieren und Wartung Anweisungen in der Literatur gibt, die  
diese Maßeinheit begleitet.  
Dieses Symbol warnt den Benutzer der nicht isolierten  
Spannung innerhalb der Maßeinheit, die gefährliche elektrische  
Schläge verursachen kann.  
Dieses Symbol warnt den Benutzer, dem Ausgabestecker  
Spannungen enthalten, die gefährlichen elektrischen Schlag  
verursachen können.  
Folgen Sie bitte diesenVorkehrungen, wenn  
dieses Produkt verwendet wird:  
1. Lesen Sie die Hinweise.  
2. Halten Sie sich an die Anleitung.  
3. Beachten Sie alle Warnungen.  
4. Beachten Sie alle Hinweise.  
5. Bringen Sie das Gerät nie mit Wasser in Berührung.  
6. Verwenden Sie zur Reinigung nur ein weiches Tuch.  
Verwenden Sie keine flüssigen Reinigungsmittel. Dies kann  
gefährliche Folgen haben.  
7. Halten Sie sich beim Aufbau des Gerätes an die Angaben des  
Herstellers.  
8. Stellen Sie das Gerät nich in der Nähe von Heizkörpern,  
Heizungsklappen oder anderen Wärmequellen (einschließlich  
Verstärkern) auf.  
9. Verfehlen Sie nicht den Zweck des grounging Terminals auf  
dem Netzstecker. Dieses Terminal wird für Ihre Sicherheit zur  
Verfügung gestellt.  
10. Verlegen Sie das Netzkabel des Gerätes niemals so, daß man  
darüber stolpern kann oder daß es gequetscht wird.  
11. Benutzen Sie nur das vom Hersteller empfohlene Zubehör.  
Fortsetzung auf nächster seite  
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11  
 
Important Safety Instructions  
12. Verwenden Sie ausschließlich Wagen, Ständer, oder Tische, die  
speziell für professionelle Audio- und Musikinstrumente  
geeignet sind. Achten Sie immer darauf, daß die jeweiligen  
Geräte sicher installiert sind, um Schäden und Verletzungen zu  
vermeiden. Wenn Sie einen Rollwagen benutzen, achten Sie  
darauf, das dieser nicht umkippt, um Verletzungen  
auszuschließen.  
13. Ziehen Sie während eines Gewitters oder wenn Sie das Gerät  
über einen längeren Zeitraum nicht benutzen den Netzstecher  
aus der Steckdose.  
14. Die Wartung sollte nur durch qualifiziertes Fachpersonal  
erfolgen. Die Wartung wird notwendig, wenn das Gerät  
beschädigt wurde oder aber das Stromkabel oder der Stecker,  
Gegenstände oder Flüssigkeit in das Gerät gelangt sind, das  
Gerät dem Regen oder Feuchtigkeit ausgesetzt war und  
deshalb nicht mehr normal arbeitet oder heruntergefallen ist.  
15. Dieses Gerät produziert auch im normalen Betrieb Wärme.  
Achten Sie deshalb auf ausreichende Lüftung mit mindestens  
15 cm Abstand von anderen Geräten.  
16. Dieses Produkt kann in Verbindung mit einem Verstärker und  
Kopfhörern oder Lautsprechern Lautstärkepegel erzeugen, die  
anhaltende Gehörschäden verursachen. Betreiben Sie es nicht  
über längere Zeit mit hoher Lautstärke oder einem Pegel, der  
Ihnen unangenehm is. Wenn Sie ein Nachlassen des Gehörs  
oder ein Klingeln in den Ohren feststellen, sollten Sie einen  
Ohrenarzt aufsuchen.  
17. Setzen Sie den Apparat nicht Bratenfett oder dem Spritzen  
aus. Plazieren Sie die Nachrichten, die mit Flüssigkeiten  
(gefüllt werden Blumevases, Getränkdosen, Kaffeetassen)  
nicht auf den Apparat.  
18. WARNING: um die Gefahr des Feuers oder des elektrischen  
Schlages zu verringern, setzen Sie diesen Apparat nicht Regen  
oder Feuchtigkeit aus.  
19. Das Netzteil des Audiogerätes kann Interferenzstörungen der  
Umgebung ausgesetzt sein. Sollten nach erfolgter Installation  
Fehlfunktionen am Gerät auftreten, können diese durch ein  
Zurücksetzen des Gerätes (Reset), durch einen anderen  
Aufstellungsortes des Gerätes oder durch den Einsatz eines  
Spannungsstabilisators behoben werden.  
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12  
Important Safety Instructions  
CE Declaration of Conformity  
See our Web site at:  
FCC Compliance Statement  
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is  
subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not  
cause harmful interference and (2) this device must accept any  
interference received, including interference that may cause  
undesired operation.  
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with  
the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the  
FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable  
protection against harmful interference in a residential installation.  
This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency  
energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the  
instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio  
communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference  
will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does  
cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which  
can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user  
is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of  
the following measures:  
-- Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.  
-- Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.  
-- Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from  
that to which the receiver is connected.  
-- Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for  
help.  
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13  
 
Important Safety Instructions  
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14  
1 Quick Start Guide  
If you can’t wait to get started…  
The Alesis DEQ830 is a unique product, but its basic hookup and  
operation are similar to other equalizers in most respects. If you're  
experienced with signal processors, this chapter is a “shorthand”  
guide for those who want to start using the DEQ830 right away. If  
you have questions about any of the features, don’t worry – all the  
details will be covered in later chapters.  
If you're new to signal  
processing, start with the  
more detailed instructions for  
hookup and operation found  
in the next chapter.  
Step 1: Hook it up to a mixer  
The DEQ830’s power will  
turn on automatically once its  
AC cable is plugged in, so be  
sure to press the [POWER]  
switch to turn the unit off  
while you’re connecting it to  
your other equipment.  
1. Plug the POWER jack on the back of the DEQ830 into a  
grounded AC power source with the supplied power cable.  
2. Using high-quality cables, plug the left and right main outputs  
of a non-powered mixer into the Channel 1 and Channel 2  
inputs on the back of the DEQ830. You may connect up to  
eight separate audio sources in the same manner.  
3. Connect another pair of cables to the Channel 1 and Channel  
2 outputs of the DEQ830 and plug them into your  
amplification system or a pair of powered monitors.  
4. Press the [POWER] switch on the front of the DEQ830 to  
power up the unit.  
When connecting the  
5. You may want to link some of the channels together—  
Channels 1 and 2, for example. That way you’ll hear the  
changes you make with Channel 1 affect both channels of  
the stereo signal at once. To do so, select Channel 1 by  
pressing its [CHANNEL SELECT] button. Then hold  
down the [LINK] button and press Channel 2’s  
[CHANNEL SELECT] button at the same time. After this,  
any EQ changes you make to Channel 1 will be reflected in  
Channel 2. You may link up to eight channels together using  
this method.  
DEQ830 to other equipment,  
make sure all gear has been  
turned off. Also, to protect  
your speakers, be certain  
your amplifier(s) are turned  
all the way down before  
turning your equipment back  
on.  
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15  
 
1 Quick Start Guide  
Step 2: Try some equalization  
Play some signal into the unit  
While learning the unit, you should play a CD or a multitrack  
source into the equalizer. Choose a song or musical passage with a  
fairly consistent level, so you can take your time experimenting  
with the different features.  
1. Put the mixer’s main faders all the way down so you don’t  
distort the unit by sending it too much signal.  
At the factory, we set all of  
Program 00’s frequencies to  
0 dB. It’s a good idea to leave  
Program 00 this way, but if  
you have already overwritten  
it with some of your own  
settings, you can just create  
your own program with  
2. Select program 00 on the DEQ830. This will call up a  
program with all frequencies set to 0 dB, allowing you to hear  
the changes you make to the audio more easily.  
3. Begin playing your source material. Bring the mixer’s main  
faders up gradually until the Channel Meters for Channels 1  
and 2 begin to light up. Carefully increase the mixer’s output  
level until the meters’ green and yellow LEDs are lit most of  
the time. If the red CLIP LEDs at the top of the meters light  
up at all, back the mixer’s output level down until they stop  
lighting up. This is important, because these red LEDs indicate  
that the signal is clipping on that channel.  
“flat” settings for the  
purposes of this experiment.  
Remember: if the red CLIP  
LED at the top of a Channel  
Meter lights up, that means  
the signal is clipping. To  
prevent this, reduce the level  
being sent to the proper  
channel.  
4. Press one of the [BAND SELECT] buttons to select a  
frequency. One of the LEDs above that button will begin to  
blink.  
5. Use the [VALUE] encoder to decrease or increase the chosen  
frequency. If desired, select another frequency and repeat this  
process.  
6. Press the [BYPASS] button to hear the signal without the  
equalization effect. Press it again to return to the EQ’d signal.  
7. Repeat steps 3 – 6 for the other audio sources you have  
connected to the DEQ830.  
Step 3: Store the Program  
Once you have created an interesting program, you can save it to  
one of the 100 user program locations. Here’s how to do this:  
Programs 25-99 have been  
left blank so you have  
somewhere to store your  
programs right away without  
overwriting the factory  
presets.  
1. Press the [STORE] button to enter Store mode.  
2. Use the [VALUE] encoder to select the new location for the  
edited program. For your convenience, programs 25-99 have  
been left blank so you can store your editing experiments  
somewhere without fear of overwriting a program you might  
want to use later.  
3. Press the [VALUE] encoder to store the program to the new  
location. This will preserve the EQ settings for all eight  
channels of audio.  
For a detailed explanation of how to use this mode, see page 41.  
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16  
 
Quick Start Guide 1  
Step 4: Save an EQ Curve  
In addition to being able to save entire programs, you can also save  
the settings for an individual EQ curve. Here’s how to do this:  
1. Select the curve you wish to save by pressing that channel’s  
[CHANNEL SELECT] button.  
2. Press the [SAVE CURVE] button to enter Save Curve mode.  
3. Use the [VALUE] encoder to select the new location for the  
edited curve. For your convenience, curves 50-99 have been  
left blank so you can save your editing experiments somewhere  
without fear of overwriting a curve you might want to use  
later.  
4. Press the [VALUE] encoder to save the curve to the new  
location. You can retrieve any one of the 100 curves for use in  
any of the DEQ830’s 100 programs.  
For a detailed explanation on how to use this mode, see page 41.  
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17  
 
1 Quick Start Guide  
DEQ830 Diagram  
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18  
   
2 Connections  
Unpacking and Inspection  
Your DEQ830 was packed carefully at the factory. The shipping  
carton was designed to protect the unit during transit. Please keep  
this carton in the highly unlikely event that you need to return the  
DEQ830 for servicing.  
The shipping carton should contain the following items:  
DEQ830 with the same serial number as shown on the  
shipping carton  
AC power cable  
This instruction manual  
Installing in a Rack  
The DEQ830 may be simply set on a table, or installed in a  
standard 19" audio equipment rack.  
Thermal Considerations in Rack  
Mounting  
The DEQ830 can be mounted in an equipment rack (occupying  
one rack space) or placed on a table or shelf. When you install it,  
keep in mind that heat is the greatest enemy of electronic  
equipment. Please observe the following:  
The DEQ830 is designed to perform properly over a range of  
ambient temperatures from 10° C to +40° C (50° F to 104° F),  
in up to 80% non-condensing humidity. These are not absolute  
limits, but Alesis cannot guarantee that the DEQ830 will meet  
its published specs or remain reliable if operated outside of  
these ranges.  
Always allow adequate ventilation behind the DEQ830. Do not  
seal any enclosure that holds this unit. It is not necessary to  
leave an empty rack space above or below the DEQ830.  
However, if your environment is unusually warm and not air  
conditioned, space between units will help the units run cooler.  
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19  
 
2 Connections  
AC Power Hookup  
The DEQ830 has what’s known as a “switching power supply.”  
This means it will detect any standard line voltage from 90 to 230  
volts, 50-60 Hz, and adapt itself to that. All you need is the proper  
AC cable for the country in which you find yourself. Just plug the  
"female" end of the power cable into the DEQ830’s POWER  
receptacle and the “male” end into a good quality, noise-free AC  
power source.  
Using the DEQ830 in another country  
Your DEQ830 was supplied with the correct power cord for your  
country or local area. If you plan to travel with it to another  
country, obtain an Alesis AC power cord compatible with the  
outlets used in the other country and use it in place of the supplied  
cord. These can be obtained through your Alesis dealer or through  
the Alesis Parts department.  
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20  
 
Connections 2  
Connecting Inputs and Outputs  
Connecting to the Channel or Main Inserts  
of a mixing console  
Unbalanced I/O  
When connecting audio  
cables and/or turning power  
on and off, please make sure  
that your amplifiers are  
turned down or off to prevent  
damage to your speakers.  
Most mixing consoles have insert jacks near the main outputs and  
for each channel as well. These are typically Tip-Ring-Sleeve (TRS)  
jacks with the send and return on the same jack. To use the  
DEQ830 as an effects insert device, you will need an insert cable  
(not included).  
This cable splits the TRS insert jack into two unbalanced mono  
connectors. Usually, the tip is wired to the “Send” connector,  
which plugs into one input of the equalizer, and the ring is wired  
to the “Return” connector, which plugs into the corresponding  
output of the equalizer. However, the wiring of the insert jacks is  
different on some recording consoles, which means that the  
input/output relationship may be reversed. Check your mixer’s  
Reference Manual to be sure, or just try it both ways – this won’t  
damage the DEQ830.  
If your mixer does not have  
insert jacks available at its  
main outputs, simply connect  
the main outputs of your non-  
powered mixer to the inputs  
of the DEQ830, then connect  
the outputs of the equalizer to  
the inputs of your mixdown  
recorder or amplified  
monitoring system.  
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21  
 
2 Connections  
Mono connections  
This example shows how to connect the DEQ830 to one mono  
source. You can use this method to connect eight mono sources to  
the DEQ830. You would need eight insert cables to make all of  
these connections.  
Since the DEQ830 has eight  
channels, you can connect  
eight independent sources.  
For example, you could use  
Channel 1 to EQ the rhythm  
guitar, Channel 2 to EQ the  
bass guitar, Channels 3 and 4  
to EQ the left and right  
outputs of a keyboard, and so  
on.  
Stereo connections  
Use two insert cables to connect the DEQ830 to the main L/R  
bus in the same way you would connect it to a pair of channel  
inserts. Simply connect one insert cable to the left main insert of  
the mixer, and connect the two mono jacks to the Channel 1 input  
and output of the DEQ830. Use another insert cable to connect  
the right main insert to the Channel 2 input and output of the  
DEQ830.  
You can also simply connect the balanced main outputs of the  
mixer to the inputs of the DEQ830, then connect the outputs  
of the equalizer to the inputs of your mixdown recorder,  
monitor system, etc.  
Never place the equalizer  
between the power amp and  
the speakers, as the high-  
powered levels created by the  
power amp will damage the  
DEQ830.  
Balanced I/O  
Some recording consoles have separate balanced jacks for the  
sends and returns instead of a single TRS jack. If your recording  
console has these connections, use a balanced TRS cable to  
connect the insert send to the input of the equalizer, and another  
balanced TRS cable to connect the equalizer output to the insert  
return.  
Modern production values  
sometimes lead to the heavy  
use of compression during the  
mastering process. When  
processing CD audio, you  
may find it necessary at times  
to lower the Channel Level of  
the active program so as to  
avoid clipping the output  
stage of the DEQ830. This  
will allow additional  
Operating Levels  
The DEQ830 can operate in either a +4dBu or –10dBV setting. A  
rear panel switch allows you to configure the unit to your audio  
environment.  
headroom for more extensive  
details on the Channel Level  
function.  
If you are unsure about the nominal operating level of the  
equipment to which you will be connecting the DEQ830, refer to  
the Reference Manual for that equipment.  
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22  
Connections 2  
Connecting to the inserts on an instrument  
amplifier  
Unbalanced I/O  
The insert sends on a guitar or bass amp are usually labeled  
“effects send and return” or “insert send and return.” This allows  
your instrument to be boosted to line level before the signal is sent  
to the equalizer, processed, and returned to the power amp.  
If you are using a two-piece system, another method would be to  
insert the DEQ830 between the preamp and the power amp. You  
should never put the equalizer between the power amp and the  
speaker, as the high-powered levels created by the power amp will  
damage the unit.  
Connecting to equipment with XLR inputs  
and outputs  
Don't use line transformers!  
Many XLR-to-1/4" adapters  
sold at electronics stores are  
NOT adapters, but  
transformers (and very low  
quality transformers at that).  
Don't use these on the output  
of the DEQ830—they're  
If you are connecting the DEQ830 to a product with XLR  
balanced inputs and outputs, you will need to convert this signal to  
a TRS balanced connector. Make sure that pin 2 of the XLR  
connector is connected to the tip of the TRS adapter, and pin 3 is  
connected to the sleeve.  
unnecessary and generally  
sound awful because they  
don't have the headroom to  
handle the DEQ830's output.  
Get a hard-wired adapter or  
cable from your professional  
audio dealer, or make one  
yourself from components.  
Connecting to equipment with ADAT Optical  
inputs and outputs  
The DEQ830 has the capability of receiving and transmitting its  
audio signal in the digital domain. This is done through a pair of  
ADAT Optical jacks found on the rear panel. The jacks are labeled  
ADAT Optical In/Out. Each carries eight channels of audio, so all  
eight of the DEQ830’s channels are handled by a single cable in  
each direction.  
Using the ADAT Optical jacks to connect to an external device  
such as the Alesis ADAT HD24 is very easy, because the DEQ830  
will automatically switch over to the ADAT Optical inputs when it  
senses that a valid digital signal is present.  
There are three ways to connect the DEQ830 with another digital  
audio device, as explained on the next page.  
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23  
 
2 Connections  
Analog Signal In, Digital Signal Out  
In this configuration, the DEQ830 can be used to “translate” an  
analog signal to the digital domain. A likely scenario would be  
using the DEQ830 as an analog-to-digital converter between your  
submix outputs and an Alesis ADAT. In addition to acting as a  
“gateway,” the DEQ830 would allow you to shape the sound and  
send it to the ADAT digitally, without the additional noise that can  
be added by an analog EQ.  
Digital audio offers a decided  
advantage over analog audio  
when passing the signal  
through multiple devices. The  
various stages of analog  
circuitry can cause the  
To use the DEQ830 in this way, connect the ADAT Optical  
output of the DEQ830 to the ADAT Optical input of the  
receiving device.  
Digital Signal In, Analog Signal Out  
quality of the signal to  
deteriorate rapidly; however,  
once a signal has been  
In this setup, the DEQ830 also serves as a signal converter,  
making it possible to take the digital submix outputs of an 8-bus  
mixer, apply some EQ and then send the result as an analog signal  
into a sound system— the Alesis ProActive 5.1 Surround Sound  
System, for example, or a series of independent onstage monitors.  
converted to the digital  
domain, it can be carried  
from device to device with a  
minimal loss of integrity. This  
is why it is advantageous to  
pass the signal through the  
DEQ830 using its ADAT  
Optical jacks whenever  
possible.  
If an analog mixer has limited channel EQ capabilities, you could  
run the digital signal from an ADAT into the DEQ830, and from  
there take it to your mixer’s analog inputs. This would allow you to  
take advantage of the DEQ830's extensive EQ and simply use the  
mixer for setting the levels and pan positions of the signals.  
For these situations, be sure to connect the ADAT Optical output  
of the transmitting device to the ADAT Optical input of the  
DEQ830.  
Digital Signal In, Digital Signal Out  
In cases where every device in your audio chain has a digital audio  
input and output, the DEQ830 is right at home. Simply pass the  
audio from the transmitting device’s ADAT Optical output into  
the DEQ830’s ADAT Optical input, use it to sculpt the signal, and  
then pass the audio on to the next device by connecting the  
DEQ830’s ADAT Optical output to the ADAT Optical input of  
the receiving device.  
Operating the DEQ830 in any of the three configurations  
described above is really no different from using it in a completely  
analog system. For that reason, from this point on in the manual  
we will make no distinction between operating the DEQ830 in the  
digital or analog domains.  
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24  
Connections 2  
About Audio Cables  
The connections between the DEQ830 and your studio are your  
music’s lifeline, so use only high quality cables. These should be  
low-capacitance shielded cables with a stranded (not solid) internal  
conductor and a low-resistance shield. Although quality cables cost  
more, they do make a difference.  
Route cables to the DEQ830 correctly by  
observing the following precautions:  
Do not bundle audio cables with AC power cords.  
Avoid running audio cables near sources of electromagnetic  
interference such as transformers, monitors, computers, etc.  
Do not place cables where they can be stepped on. Stepping on  
a cable may not cause immediate damage, but it can compress  
the insulation between the center conductor and shield,  
degrading the cable’s performance and reducing the cable’s  
reliability.  
Avoid twisting the cable or having it make sharp, right angle  
turns.  
Never unplug a cable by pulling on the wire itself. Always  
unplug by grasping the body of the plug firmly and pulling  
directly outward.  
And most importantly, keep connectors clean. Every few months,  
unplug them and wipe off oxidation with a clean cloth soaked in  
alcohol or contact cleaner. Insert the plugs into the jacks a few  
times to clean the internal jack contacts.  
Although Alesis does not endorse any specific product, chemicals  
such as Tweek (also known as Stabilant) and Cramolin, when  
applied to electrical connectors, are claimed to improve the  
electrical contact.  
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25  
 
2 Connections  
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26  
3 Basics of Equalization  
This section will describe how equalization works and explain the  
functions of the DEQ830’s controls.  
What is equalization?  
An equalizer boosts or cuts a frequency range. The DEQ830 is a  
graphic equalizer, which means it has many fixed frequency bands  
that can be cut or boosted. The term “graphic” is appropriate  
because the combined settings of the bands often resemble a  
curve, or “graph.” Thus, it is often possible to know what the unit  
is doing to the sound simply by looking at it from a distance. The  
other type of equalizer, a parametric equalizer, can sweep the  
frequency bands and adjust the frequency range affected by the cut  
or boost of each band. Alesis sells a parametric equalizer called the  
PEQ-450.  
The most basic level of control on a graphic equalizer is the gain  
setting for a band. Each of the bands represents a predetermined  
frequency range, and its gain setting controls the amount of boost  
or cut for that frequency range. A setting of 0 dB means that the  
signal will not be affected in the area of those audio frequencies.  
Depending on the program material, boosting or cutting just one  
frequency can have a significant impact on the sound. When all of  
the frequency bands are taken together, the impact can be huge.  
Equalization can be used for:  
Adjusting the timbre of an instrument, voice, mix, or effect  
Cutting or boosting frequencies to make a source easier to mix  
with other tracks  
Compensating for a less-than-ideal recording  
Compensating for less-than-ideal control room or auditorium  
acoustics  
Creating a filter effect  
Eliminating buzz, noise, or hum  
Equalizers can make your recorded tracks sound polished and  
professional. Chapter 4 will describe some specific settings for  
various instruments and applications.  
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27  
 
3 Basics of Equalization  
Description of the Front Panel  
This section will give you an overview of the front panel’s features.  
Not all features are labeled, so you may want to refer to the  
diagram of the DEQ830 on page 18 as you read this section.  
Band Select  
There are 31 buttons side-by-side on the left half of the  
DEQ830’s front panel. The first 30 are the [BAND SELECT]  
buttons. Above each of the [BAND SELECT] buttons is a  
number like “25” or “8k.” These stand for the audio frequencies,  
measured in Hertz (Hz), which are selected for editing by the  
[BAND SELECT] buttons below them. The 31st button is the  
[CHANNEL LEVEL] button, which is explained below.  
Channel Level  
For details on the  
The [CHANNEL LEVEL] button is used to set the level of the  
currently selected channel or Link Group. This setting is post-EQ  
and pre-Master Level.  
relationship between Master  
Level and Channel Level, see  
RealTime Analyzer (RTA)  
This button will put the DEQ830 into Real Time Analyzer  
mode, in which the unit serves as a visual aid for analyzing the  
audio signal. In this mode, the Band Gain LEDs “dance to the  
music,” displaying the relative strengths of the various frequency  
ranges passing through the DEQ830. For more on this mode, see  
Channel Select  
To the right of the [POWER] button, you’ll see the  
[CHANNEL SELECT] buttons. These eight buttons are used  
for selecting a channel for which the EQ settings will be displayed  
on the 30 Band Gain LEDs. The [CHANNEL SELECT]  
buttons are also used for creating Link Groups.  
Monitor Select (INPUT/OUTPUT)  
This button, located immediately above the [BYPASS] and [ALL]  
buttons, toggles between INPUT and OUTPUT to determine  
whether the Channel Meters and RTA display the input or output  
levels. The green LEDs above this button indicate which  
monitoring method is currently selected.  
Bypass mode “hides” the  
effect of the EQ and Channel  
Level controls on the audio.  
However, the Master Level  
function from Utility mode is  
unaffected by the [BYPASS]  
button. For more information  
about the relationship  
Bypass  
When you press this button, a red LED will light immediately  
above the currently selected channel, indicating that this channel is  
in Bypass mode. As long as this LED is lit, incoming audio will  
pass through this channel without being affected by its EQ settings.  
Also, if you’re on a linked channel when you press the [BYPASS]  
button, all of the linked channels will bypass at the same time.  
Bypass mode is useful for comparing the “equalized” signal with  
between Channel Level and  
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28  
   
Basics of Equalization 3  
the original signal so you can decide if you like the edit you made.  
Press the button again to get out of Bypass mode and hear the  
effect.  
Bypass All (ALL)  
This button is located just above the [BYPASS] button. It will  
toggle the Bypass status of all eight channels at once. The first  
press of the [ALL] button will cause any unbypassed channels to  
enter Bypass mode. Subsequent presses will toggle the Bypass  
status of all eight chanels together. The red LEDs below each  
channel meter will light to indicate that the channels are bypassed.  
Link (PUSHTO LINK)  
This button is used to link channels together so that their EQ  
settings are locked together. Any edits you make to a band on one  
channel will also be applied to that same band on all linked  
channels. This is useful for quickly setting up a program without  
having to make independent adjustments for each channel.  
Store  
Once you have created a program you would like to keep, press  
this button to enter Store mode. From there you can use the  
[VALUE] encoder to select one of the 100 memory locations to  
become the new home for the edited program. For more  
information on this function, see page 41.  
Compare  
This button will help you if you are editing a program and would  
like to hear how the program sounded before you edited it.  
Pressing this button will temporarily recall the original program,  
and pressing it a second time will restore the edited program. The  
green LED above this button will light to indicate that the Band  
Gain LEDs are now showing the EQ curve as it appeared before  
your edits.  
When you press  
[COMPARE], the stored  
settings for all eight channels  
of the current program are  
temporarily recalled.  
Utility  
If you press [UTILITY] while you are in Program mode, you will  
enter Utility mode, which lets you edit the Master Level, MIDI  
Settings, the internal clock rate and other global parameters. If you  
hold down this button at startup as the DEQ830’s splash screen is  
displayed, you will enter Lock mode. This mode allows you to lock  
the front panel buttons. For more information on Utility mode, see  
page 50.  
Save Curve  
Press [SAVE CURVE] to save a channel’s EQ curve to the  
DEQ830’s curve bank so that it can be retrieved at a later time.  
We’ve provided 100 locations (00-99) in which to save curves.  
Curves 00-49 contain factory presets, and curves 50-99 are blank.  
Any of the 100 curves may be modified and saved. For more  
information on saving curves, see page 40.  
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29  
 
3 Basics of Equalization  
Program  
If you want to cancel any action in progress and return to  
Program mode, just press the [PROGRAM] button.  
Value Encoder (VALUE)  
On far right side you’ll find a knob marked [VALUE], which is  
used to edit the gain amount of the frequency you have selected  
with the [BAND SELECT] buttons. (It is also possible to select  
and edit several frequencies at once, as you’ll see later.) The  
[VALUE] encoder is also used for all sorts of data entry, such as  
selecting programs and curves, changing global parameter values  
and so forth. Changes made with the [VALUE] encoder are  
reflected in the Numerical LED Display to the left of the knob.  
Numerical LED Display  
The three-digit LED display you see to the left of the [VALUE]  
encoder is always showing either a value or an abbreviated name.  
To help you know at a glance what sort of information the display  
is giving you, there are three green LEDs immediately below the  
Numerical LED Display:  
PROG  
If this LED is lit, this means the value in the  
display is a program number. You will see this  
when the unit is in Program mode or Store  
mode.  
CURVE  
dB  
When lit, this LED indicates that the number  
in the display is telling you which curve has  
been chosen.  
This LED tells you that the value in the  
display pertains to a gain change.  
The only time that none of these LEDs will be lit is when the  
DEQ830 is in Utility mode.  
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30  
Basics of Equalization 3  
Description of the Basic Modes  
Program mode  
When this manual refers to Program mode, we mean the very top  
level of functionality of the DEQ830. In program mode, turning  
the [VALUE] encoder will let you select between the 100 user-  
definable preset programs in the unit.  
A program consists of more than just EQ settings. The things  
stored in memory and recalled when you select a program are:  
The gain settings of all 30 bands for channels 1 – 8  
The Link status of all 8 channels  
The actual gain settings for all non-primary channels in a Link  
Group. These are merely “hidden” by the Link function.  
The individual Channel Level settings for channels 1 – 8  
If the DEQ830 has been in some other mode, pushing the  
[PROGRAM] button will return it to Program mode. If the LED  
above the [STORE] button is flashing, that means the program  
has been edited. If you’ve made any changes that you would like to  
keep, be sure to save them before switching to another program!  
To learn how to store an edited program, turn to page 41.  
Edit mode  
While in Program mode, pushing one of the [BAND SELECT]  
buttons will take you to Edit mode. You can tell you are in Edit  
mode when one or more of the LEDs above the [BAND  
SELECT] buttons are blinking. The bands with blinking LEDs  
are the ones that will be boosted or cut when you turn the  
[VALUE] encoder.  
After you have edited a frequency or an Edit Group (a group of  
frequencies), pushing the [PROGRAM] button will return you to  
Program mode. If you’ve made any changes, the LED above the  
[STORE] button will be flashing. Be certain to save any changes  
that you would like to keep! This is where Store mode comes in.  
Store mode  
Pressing the [STORE] button takes you to Store mode. From  
here you can decide which of the 100 program locations will  
become the new home for the edited program. For information on  
how to perform this procedure, see page 41.  
Save Curve mode  
Pressing the [SAVE CURVE] button takes you to Save Curve  
mode. This lets you save an edited EQ curve to one of the 100  
memory locations in the DEQ830’s curve bank. These curves can  
be recalled later and applied to any channel of any program. You  
can use the Curve Bank to save templates for all possible EQ  
applications. For example, you can save an EQ curve that generally  
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31  
 
3 Basics of Equalization  
Curve 00 is a “flat” curve.  
We recommend that you  
leave Curve 00’s gain  
settings at 0 so that you may  
use it as a “clean slate” for  
building new curves from the  
ground up.  
works well for male vocals. Say you have two or three channels of  
male vocals feeding into the DEQ830. To EQ these, just retrieve  
the curve from the Curve Bank, apply it to each male-vocal  
channel and modify it slightly to fit each particular vocal.  
For information on how to do this, see page 41.  
Retrieve Curve mode  
This mode allows you to take a stored EQ curve from the Curve  
Bank and place it into the currently selected channel or Link  
Group. For information on how to do this, see page 41.  
Bypass mode  
This mode is nearly as simple as it sounds—pushing the  
[BYPASS] button will let you hear the non-equalized audio. But  
there’s a bit more to it than that. There are also two gain  
adjustment stages that can be used to compensate for a reduction  
or increase in signal level caused by the equalization curve being  
used. The value for one of these stages, Channel Level, is saved  
along with the EQ settings when the program is stored; the value  
for the other stage, Master Level, is not. So what Bypass mode  
really is doing is causing the audio to “pass by” the processing  
stages that are stored as a part of the program.  
You’ll find a description of  
Channel Level mode further  
down on this page. For a  
description of the Master  
Level function, turn to page  
The following diagram shows the relationship between each of the  
stages in the DEQ830’s signal processing chain.  
Channel Level mode  
When you run a number of different instruments into the  
DEQ830, each channel may experience drastically different signal  
levels. Channel Level mode can be used to adjust the output of  
each channel independently.  
Unlike the Master Level  
function in Utility mode, the  
settings for Channel Level  
mode are stored with each  
curve or program. For more  
on Channel Level mode, see  
This mode is also useful when processing a stereo signal. If the  
combination of the source material and extreme EQ settings is  
causing the output of the DEQ830 to clip, Channel Level mode  
can be used to adjust the output of two stereo channels  
simultaneously. To do this, the two channels must be linked. See  
page 42 for more details on Link mode.  
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32  
   
Basics of Equalization 3  
Link mode  
In this mode, you can link multiple channels so that their EQ  
settings are locked together. To experiment with this, first select a  
channel with recognizable settings. Next, press and hold down the  
[LINK] button. You can then select channels to link to the  
original channel by pressing their [CHANNEL SELECT]  
buttons. You will see the Band Gain LEDs for each linked channel  
change to match the settings of the currently selected channel.  
(But don’t worry—the original settings are still retained in  
memory; more about that later.)  
See page 42 for more details on Link mode.  
Utility mode  
This is the mode you’ll enter when you hit the [UTILITY] button.  
Here you can adjust a number of global settings that determine  
how the DEQ830 behaves.  
For details on Utility mode, turn to page 45.  
RealTime Analyzer mode  
In this mode, the DEQ830 will display an animated representation  
of the frequencies found in the audio signal passing through the  
unit. When you press [RTA], the Band Gain LEDs will begin to  
rise and fall as the frequencies of the signal peak and dip.  
This mode also allows you to visually compare the audio signal  
before and after it is processed by the DEQ830. For more on Real  
Time Analyzer mode, see page 43.  
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33  
3 Basics of Equalization  
Basic operation: Program mode  
Program mode is where to be if you want to call up another  
program, or if you just want to know the number of the program  
you are using. The DEQ830 has 100 programs in all. Programs 00-  
24 contain factory presets that you can use as starting points for  
your own programs. You can overwrite any of the 100 programs.  
If the program number  
flashes when you try to select  
another program, this means  
that the Fast Program Select  
feature is off, and you will  
need to press the encoder to  
enfirm the program change.  
For more information, see  
Navigation in Program mode is a breeze. First, if you’re not in  
Program mode, get there by pressing the [PROGRAM] button.  
The Numerical LED Display will show you the number of the  
current program. All you have to do to call up a new program is  
turn the [VALUE] encoder. This enables you to quickly reach any  
program in the unit's memory.  
Basic operation: Edit mode  
If you're not already there, exit to Program mode by using the  
[PROGRAM] button. Then select Program 00 on the DEQ830  
by using the [VALUE] encoder.  
Just as Program 00 is a  
“flat” program, Curve 00 is a  
“flat” curve. We strongly  
recommend that you leave  
Curve 00’s gain settings at 0  
so that you may use it as a  
“clean slate” for building  
new curves from the ground  
up.  
The original factory Program 00 is a “flat” program, and it’s  
easy to see why it’s called that—the gain setting for every band  
is 0 dB. Calling up this program is almost the same as pressing  
the Bypass button, in that the audio passing through the unit  
will not be equalized in any way. Of course, the difference is that  
you can edit the program and hear the changes that you make. If  
you don’t already know what kind of EQ you're looking for, this  
may be a good place to start.  
Single Band Edit  
Pressing a [BAND SELECT] button puts the DEQ830 into Edit  
mode. The Numerical LED Display will now display the gain value  
in decibels (dB) of the band you just selected. In addition, one of  
the Band Gain LEDs above that [BAND SELECT] button will  
start blinking. If the gain value of that band is 0 dB, the green  
LED will blink. This means there is no gain change occurring in  
this frequency range. If it is higher or lower than that, one of the  
yellow LEDs will blink. This indicates that some amount of cut or  
boost is happening.  
Use the [VALUE] encoder to change the gain value of that band.  
Turning the [VALUE] encoder left will lower the gain value, or  
“cut” the chosen frequency; turning it right will raise the gain  
value, or “boost” the frequency. There is an overall range of  
+/- 12 dB of gain change available.  
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34  
 
Basics of Equalization 3  
Band Solo  
The DEQ830 has a handy feature called Band Solo that allows you  
to “isolate” a given frequency while you are editing. This can help  
you determine exactly which band you need to highlight or de-  
emphasize. It’s simple to do:  
1. Select a band by pressing and holding its [BAND SELECT]  
button.  
2. Press the [VALUE] encoder. You’ll see the LED for that  
band jump to +12 dB.  
3. Press the [VALUE] encoder again. The LED for that band  
will jump to –12 dB.  
4. Release the [BAND SELECT] button, and the value of that  
band will be returned to its original setting.  
This only works with one band at a time, but you’ll find it to be a  
very helpful feature.  
If you want to keep an edited  
curve or program, be sure to  
store it. For instructions on  
how to do this, turn to page  
To exit Edit mode, press the [PROGRAM] button. This will  
return the DEQ830 to Program mode.  
Band Gain Cut/Boost Ranges  
Whether you are cutting or boosting a band, gain change happens  
in 0.5 dB increments. As you make the change, the Numerical  
LED Display will show you the magnitude of the gain: 0.5, 1.0,  
1.5, 2.0, ... up to 12.0.  
Because it’s not possible to show a minus sign in the LED display  
for negative gain values, you’ll see the same sequence as you turn  
the encoder to the left. But if there’s any doubt in your mind about  
which way you’re going, the Band Gain LED will clue you in. As  
soon as you move 0.5 dB away from 0, the LED for that band will  
change from green to yellow. If you are cutting the frequency,  
you’ll see a yellow light below the center line. If you are boosting  
it will be above.  
Since the front panel only has thirteen gain LEDs to represent the  
49 possible levels of gain in each band, you may not see the LED  
change when you make small adjustments to the gain. The table on  
the following page shows the amount of change in dB it takes to  
light each of the Band Gain LEDs:  
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35  
3 Basics of Equalization  
LED  
Gain Change  
11.5 – 12.0 dB  
9.5 – 11 dB  
7.5 – 9.0 dB  
5.5 – 7.0 dB  
3.5 – 5.0 dB  
0.5 – 3.0 dB  
0 dB  
+ 12 dB  
+ 10 dB  
+ 8 dB  
+ 6 dB  
+ 4 dB  
+ 2 dB  
0 dB  
- 2 dB  
- 4 dB  
- 6 dB  
- 8 dB  
- 10 dB  
- 12 dB  
0.5 – 3.0 dB  
3.5 – 5.0 dB  
5.5 – 7.0 dB  
7.5 – 9.0 dB  
9.5 – 11 dB  
11.5 – 12.0 dB  
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36  
Basics of Equalization 3  
Multiple Band Edit  
Selecting an Edit Group  
Pressing a [BAND SELECT] button puts the DEQ830 into Edit  
mode. And until you turn the [VALUE] encoder to boost or cut  
the gain, you can keep pressing [BAND SELECT] buttons until  
you have several of them selected simultaneously. This is called  
selecting an Edit Group. An Edit Group can be made up of any  
number of bands. Another way to select an edit group is to hold  
down a [BAND SELECT] button and turn the encoder. This  
will allow you to select a range of bands at once.  
There’s an easy way to create  
an Edit Group from multiple  
adjacent bands. Just press  
and hold a [BAND  
SELECT] button as you spin  
the [VALUE] encoder left or  
right. The farther you spin the  
encoder, the more bands you  
will select. After you release  
the [BAND SELECT] button,  
you can use the encoder to  
adjust the gain of all selected  
bands at once.  
The Relative Gain display  
When you pressed the first [BAND SELECT] button, two things  
happened: the Numerical LED Display changed to show the gain  
value of that band, and one of the corresponding Band Gain  
LEDs started to blink. Then, when you pressed the second  
[BAND SELECT] button, two more things happened: the  
Numerical LED Display changed to show the number “0,” and a  
second Band Gain LED started to blink. Each additional [BAND  
SELECT] button you press adds a band and a blinking LED to  
the Edit Group.  
But why did the Numerical LED Display change to a zero?  
Because, once you have selected an Edit Group, you can cut or  
boost the gain of all of the bands in the Edit Group at once. They  
will move up or down together. The zero in the display represents  
a “benchmark” for the amount of gain change that happens to the  
Edit Group. The 7-segment LEDs can't display the gain values of  
each band within the Edit Group all at once, so if you raise the  
overall level of the Edit Group by 2 dB, that’s the number you will  
see. The function of the display in this case is to tell you the  
Relative Gain amount.  
For the sake of clarity, when this manual describes what is shown  
in the 7-segment LEDs while changing the overall gain value of  
the Edit Group, we will refer to it as the Relative Gain display.  
Here’s an example: let’s say you have selected the bands at 4k and  
5k as your Edit Group. The initial gain value for 4k is +2 dB and  
the gain value for 5k is -2 dB. The Relative Gain display at this  
point will read “0.” If you rotate the encoder clockwise through  
four values, the final value of the Relative Gain display will be a  
“2.” The actual gain values for 4k and 5k are now +4 dB and 0 dB,  
respectively, which will be indicated by their Band Gain LEDs.  
For maximum preservation of  
fidelity of the input signal, the  
largest number of bands in a  
channel should be set to 0 dB.  
For example, if you have  
more than half of your bands  
set to some cut amount and  
the majority of those cut  
frequencies are at -4 dB, then  
select all bands and  
compensate by +4 dB.  
Proportional Gain Memory  
It’s possible you may see numbers as large as 24 in the Relative  
Gain display. This is due to a very powerful aspect of the Relative  
Gain feature, and it will require some careful explanation.  
Here’s another example. Let's say you have two bands selected.  
The first band is set to 0 dB, and the second band is set to -12 dB.  
The Relative Gain display reads “0.” If you turn the [VALUE]  
encoder to the right, you will see that number change from 0 to 12  
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37  
3 Basics of Equalization  
(see fig. 1 on page 38). But it won't stop at 12; it will keep racing  
upward until it reaches 24. This is because that’s how far the band  
that was set to -12 dB had to travel until it hit the “ceiling,” or +  
12 dB (see fig. 2).  
But what about the band that was set to 0 dB originally...was it  
boosted to +24 dB? The answer is, “Yes and no.” It was, in the  
sense that the DEQ830 keeps track of the proportional values of  
the bands, even if they exceed the +/-12 dB limit of gain change  
for a frequency. But the audible audio gain is limited to +/-12 dB.  
The reason the DEQ830 keeps track of the gain relationship  
between the bands in the Edit Group is simple. It's so you can  
change your mind, pull them back down to values within the +/-  
12 dB limit, and still have them be the same distance apart!  
For example, let’s say you decided these frequencies have been  
boosted too much, and you cut them by 12 dB. At this point the  
Relative Gain display would read “12,” with the first band’s Gain  
LED at +12 dB and the second band’s Gain LED at 0 dB (as in  
fig. 1). So far you haven't really reduced the gain of the first band,  
because it’s still at +12 dB. You still want to bring it down a bit, so  
you take both frequencies down another 3 dB. So now the Relative  
Gain display would read “9,” with band one’s Gain value at +9 dB  
and band two’s Gain value at -3 dB. And now you can see that the  
gain relationship between the two bands was preserved—they’re  
still 12 dB apart.  
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38  
 
Basics of Equalization 3  
One important note, though: Proportional Gain Memory is only  
temporary. If you run one or more bands “past” the +/-12 dB  
limit and then you exit Edit mode for any reason (such as to store  
the program), the gain value of those bands will be remembered as  
+/-12 dB (whichever was the value that was last reached for those  
bands).  
The limits of Relative Gain  
There will be times when the Relative Gain display will not go all  
of the way up or down to a value of 24. This is because the  
DEQ830 takes into account the gain setting of all of the bands  
when an Edit Group is formed. If the highest gain setting of any  
band in the Edit Group is + 6 dB, then from there down to -12 dB  
is only 18 dB. So this is the largest number you will see in the  
Relative Gain display if you run the relative gain value all the way  
down (see fig. 3 and 4).  
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39  
3 Basics of Equalization  
Likewise, if the lowest gain setting of any band in this same Edit  
Group is -4 dB, then the largest number you will see in the Relative  
Gain display going all the way up is 16 (see fig. 5).  
So if you run the Relative Gain display up and down repeatedly  
with this Edit Group, the display will hit the "ceiling" at 16 and  
bottom out at 18.  
The Release Edit Group function  
Once you have changed the value of the Edit Group, the DEQ830  
will react one of two ways to further presses of the [BAND  
SELECT] buttons. To decide which option suits your working  
method or circumstance, experiment with the setting for the  
Release Edit Group function in Utility Mode.  
If this function is on, the very next [BAND SELECT] button  
you press after you have changed the level of the Edit Group will  
“release” all of the previously selected bands. The only band that  
will be selected is the one you just pressed. You will know this  
happened because only Band Gain LED will now be blinking.  
If the Release Edit Group function is set to “Off,” the next  
[BAND SELECT] button you press after you have changed the  
level of the Edit Group will simply add that band to the Edit  
Group.  
Remember, if you want to  
keep the edited curve or  
program, be sure to store it in  
memory. For instructions on  
how to do this, turn to page  
For a more detailed explanation of the Release Edit Group  
function, see page 46.  
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Basics of Equalization 3  
Basic operation: Store mode  
Once you have created a program you would like to save, press the  
[STORE] button to enter Store mode. This will cause the  
Numerical LED Display to blink with the number of the current  
program.  
Turning the [VALUE] encoder allows you to choose a program  
number between 00-99 as the destination for your edited program.  
Once you have chosen the location you want, press the [STORE]  
button again or just press the [VALUE] encoder. This will store  
the program into the user location you selected.  
Remember, if at any time you decide you do not want to save the  
edited program, simply press the [PROGRAM] button to return  
to Program mode. Your edited program will still be in memory, as  
indicated by the flashing LED above the [STORE] button. The  
destination program will not have been overwritten.  
Basic operation: Save Curve mode  
Saving an EQ curve is very similar to storing a program. Once you  
have created an EQ curve you would like to save, press the [SAVE  
CURVE] button to enter Save Curve mode. This will cause the  
Numerical LED Display to blink the number of the curve you’ve  
been editing.  
As we said earlier, you  
should leave Curve 00’s gain  
settings at 0 so that you may  
use it for building new  
curves. This probably will  
save you a lot of time and  
effort.  
Use the [VALUE] encoder to select a curve number between 00-  
99 as the destination for the edited curve. Once you have chosen  
the location you want, press the [SAVE CURVE] button again or  
just press the [VALUE] encoder. This will save the curve’s gain  
settings and Channel Level setting into the location you selected.  
When you enter Save Curve  
mode, Real Time Analyzer  
mode is disabled. You will  
have to re-enter the Real  
Time Analyzer mode after  
you exit Save Curve mode.  
And if at any time you decide you do not want to save the edited  
curve, simply press the [PROGRAM] button to return to  
Program mode. Your edited curve will still be in memory, as  
indicated by the flashing LED above the [STORE] button. The  
destination program will not have been overwritten.  
Basic operation: Retrieve Curve mode  
One of the quickest ways to create a program is to select curves  
from the Curve Bank and copy them one at a time into a channel  
or Link Group. To enter Retrieve Curve mode, hold one of the  
[CHANNEL SELECT] buttons as you turn the [VALUE]  
encoder. The Curve LED will light to indicate that the Numerical  
LED Display is now showing curve numbers from the Curve Bank.  
Curves will be applied to the  
channel once you release the  
[CHANNEL SELECT]  
button. This allows you to  
“audition” the curves  
visually before changing the  
audio.  
As you scroll through the curves you will see the Band Gain LEDs  
change to reflect the settings of the curves you are passing over,  
but they will not be loaded into the selected channel until you  
release the [CHANNEL SELECT] button. This prevents having  
to listen to the audio through curves you know you don’t want. As  
soon as you release the [CHANNEL SELECT] button, the  
channel will assume the EQ and Channel Level settings for the  
curve you retrieved.  
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3 Basics of Equalization  
Copying settings between channels  
You can use the Link function while editing to help set up identical  
curves on multiple channels. But at some point the curves may  
need to diverge slightly (or significantly). Rather than unlinking the  
channels and starting all over again, you can use the Curve Bank to  
“bounce” the settings from one channel to another. Then you can  
begin diversifying the settings of the channels to match the needs  
of the incoming audio.  
To do this, select the channel from which you wish to copy, and  
save it in an unused location in the Curve Bank. Then simply select  
the destination channel and retrieve the curve you just stored.  
Basic operation: Channel Level mode  
To enter Channel Level mode, just press the [CHANNEL  
LEVEL] button while you are in Program mode. This allows you  
to use the [VALUE] encoder to adjust the level of the currently  
selected channel or Link Group.  
The DEQ830 will allow each channel to be boosted up to +12 dB  
or cut to -12 dB. If you want another 6 dB of gain (for a total of  
18 dB), you will find that in the Master Level function in Utility  
mode. But remember, the settings for Channel Level mode are  
stored with each program. The settings for the Master Level  
function are not.  
To exit Channel Level mode and return to Program mode, press  
the [PROGRAM] button.  
Basic operation: Link mode  
The ability to link channels is a very handy feature. The most  
common application is in setting up matching EQ curves for  
stereo instruments or program material, but you may link up to  
eight channels together if you wish. The first thing to do is decide  
which channels you would like to link, and then pick one of them  
to become the “primary” channel. All other channels that you link  
to the primary channel are known as “non-primary” channels. As  
soon as they are linked, all non-primary channels will adopt the  
EQ curve of the primary channel. From that point on, when you  
make an edit on the primary channel, an identical edit will be made  
to the audio passing through the non-primary channel as well. This  
includes changes to the Channel Level setting, also.  
To make it happen, hold down the [LINK] button and press the  
[CHANNEL SELECT] button of the channel(s) you wish to  
link to the primary channel. You will know the channels are linked  
when you see more than one channel with a yellow Channel  
Number LED lit. You can now make an edit to any linked channel  
and it will affect all linked channels. To unlink a channel, hold  
[LINK] while pressing the linked channel’s button. Note that the  
primary channel cannot be unlinked from its Link Group.  
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Basics of Equalization 3  
Remember that a non-primary channel is “mirroring” the settings  
of the primary channel. When you perform an edit on a non-  
primary channel, you aren’t actually editing that channel; you are  
actually changing the primary channe, and the audio for all linked  
channels will be affected by the edit. But whatever settings existed  
on the non-primary channel before it was linked will still be there  
when you unlink it.  
To find out which channel is the primary channel in a Link Group,  
press and hold the [LINK] button. The Channel Number LED  
for the primary channel will flash.  
Basic operation: Real Time Analyzer mode  
When you enter Save Curve  
mode, RTA mode is exited.  
When you finish saving the  
curve, you have to re-enter  
RTA mode manually.  
The DEQ830 is capable of a “light show” that is even more useful  
than it is entertaining. Real Time Analyzer (RTA) mode uses the  
Band Gain LEDs to show you exactly which frequencies are  
present in the audio signal that is passing through the DEQ830.  
This is an extremely useful tool that has been a mainstay of serious  
sound reinforcement engineers for decades.  
To enter RTA mode, simply press the [RTA] button located above  
the [POWER] button. Immediately, the DEQ830 will start giving  
you visual feedback as to what is going on with the instrument or  
mix that is being processed. RTA mode can show you the  
frequencies present in the signal either before or after the signal is  
processed. To select which you want to see, use the [MONITOR  
SELECT] button, located above the [BYPASS] buttons, to toggle  
between Input and Output. The green LEDs above the button  
will indicate what you are seeing.  
[BYPASS] and [ALL] work  
the same in RTA mode as  
they do in Program mode.  
When you hit one of these  
buttons, the Bypass status of  
the channels will change as  
described on pages 28 and  
If you press a [CHANNEL SELECT] button while in RTA  
mode, the unit will remain in RTA mode, and the Band Gain  
LEDs will show the audio going through that channel. By  
switching channels while in RTA mode, you will get a better  
picture of what’s going on with the mix.  
If you were in Program mode  
when you entered RTA mode,  
turning the [VALUE]  
encoder will change the  
program number and the  
DEQ830 will exit RTA mode.  
If you were in Edit mode  
when you entered RTA mode,  
the encoder will edit the  
bands you had selected.  
To exit Real Time Analyzer mode, simply tap the [RTA] button..  
Using the [VALUE] encoder in RTA mode  
The response of the [VALUE] encoder is determined by the state  
the DEQ830 was in prior to pressing the [RTA] button. It might  
help to think of RTA mode as a “submode” for whatever mode  
the unit was in before you put it into RTA mode. If you had  
selected an Edit Group and then entered RTA mode, the Edit  
Group remains active. This is extremely useful, as you can see the  
changes you are making to the sound as you turn the encoder! But  
if you were in Program mode first, i.e., if you had simply been  
scrolling through programs before you pressed the [RTA] button,  
then the function of the [VALUE] encoder at that point was, and  
remains, program selection. So be careful! Turning the [VALUE]  
encoder can cause the DEQ830 to exit RTA mode and select  
another program.  
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3 Basics of Equalization  
Metering modes  
The DEQ830 allows you to choose how the Band Gain LEDs will  
respond in RTA mode. This is done in Utility mode, where you  
can use the [VALUE] encoder to select between the four different  
settings of the Peak Mode function, as shown in the chart below.  
Held peaks may be reset at  
any time by pressing the  
[RTA] button and holding it  
for about a second.  
Displayed  
Setting  
Name  
Description  
Peaks are not held.  
0
No Hold  
1 Second  
2 Seconds  
Infinite  
1
Peaks are held for one second.  
Peaks are held for two seconds.  
2
Inf  
Peaks are held until cleared, or  
until you exit RTA mode.  
If you want to reset the peaks while they are being held, press and  
hold the [RTA] button for about a second.  
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Basics of Equalization 3  
Basic operation: Utility mode  
To return to Program mode  
from Utility mode, press the  
[PROGRAM] button.  
This is where you will find some of the features that govern the  
way the DEQ830 operates in the other modes. They are what you  
would call “global” settings, in that their status is not stored with a  
program. No matter which program you call up, these settings will  
not change.  
In Utility mode, the Band  
Gain LEDs will spell out an  
abbreviated form of the name  
of each function, as shown in  
the “Displayed” column in  
the table on this page.  
Press the [UTILITY] button to access Utility mode. Pressing it  
repeatedly will cycle through all of the functions that you may edit  
in this mode. An alternate selection method is to press and hold  
[UTILITY] and turn the [VALUE] encoder in either direction.  
The following table shows the functions that are available in Utility  
mode:  
Function  
Displayed  
Options  
Default  
Value  
Master Level  
M. LVL  
+/- 6 dB  
Off/On  
0 dB  
Release Edit Group  
Edit Time Out  
REL E.G.  
EDIT T.O.  
MIDI CH  
PRG CHG  
MIDI O/T  
INTCLOCK  
INPUT  
On  
Off/On  
Off  
ALL  
On  
MIDI Channel  
All, 1-16  
Off/On  
MIDI Program Chg  
MIDI Out/Thru Select  
Sample Rate Select  
Force Analog Input  
Fast Program Select  
Peak Mode  
Out/Thru  
44.1/48  
Thru  
48  
Auto/Analog  
Off/On  
Auto  
On  
PRG FAST  
PEAK  
0, 1, 2, INF  
Send?  
2
Sys-Ex Transmit  
SND SYX  
N/A  
Note that as you switch from one function to the next, the  
Numerical LED Display will change to show the value of the  
selected function. In each mode, you can change the value by  
turning the [VALUE] encoder. The following pages will describe  
what each function does.  
Master Level (+/- 6 dB)  
The Master Level function is one way to customize the DEQ830  
to your environment. If the equipment in your setup tends to send  
very hot signals, you can use this function to prevent the output of  
the DEQ830 from clipping.  
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3 Basics of Equalization  
When a hot line level signal comes in, the DEQ830 has plenty of  
headroom to deal with it. But if you perform some radical  
equalization on this signal, it is possible that the combination of  
the incoming hot signal plus the equalization you have done may  
put the signal “over the top” and within clipping range. The  
Master Level function allows you to reduce the level of the  
equalized signal before it reaches the final output stage of the  
DEQ830.  
Don’t confuse this with the Channel Level settings in Edit mode.  
The Channel Level settings are stored with the program, and  
therefore may vary from program to program. The Master Level  
setting is global; i.e., it is always active and will affect every  
program. There is a diagram on page 32 that illustrates the  
relationship between Channel Level and Master Level.  
To lower or raise the Master Level setting, use the [VALUE]  
encoder.  
For an explanation of how to use the Channel Level control  
feature, see page 32.  
Release Edit Group (On/Off)  
Of all the Utility mode features, this is the one that will most  
affect the way you work with the DEQ830. The Release Edit  
Group setting determines the behavior of the [BAND SELECT]  
buttons in Edit mode.  
If you are likely to edit only  
one or two bands at a time  
when constructing a new  
curve, set the Release Edit  
Group function to On. This  
will enable you to move more  
quickly across the audio  
spectrum.  
For the sake of describing this feature, let’s review some things we  
already know. When you press a [BAND SELECT] button, you  
enter Edit mode. If you don’t turn the [VALUE] encoder right  
away, you can keep pressing [BAND SELECT] buttons until you  
have several of them selected simultaneously. This is called  
selecting an Edit Group.  
Once you have selected an Edit Group, you can cut or boost the  
gain of all of the bands in the Edit Group simultaneously; they  
will move up or down together. The Release Edit Group feature  
does not affect these things; this is always how the DEQ830  
operates.  
However, once you make an edit, the Release Edit Group feature  
comes into play. If it is set to “On,” the very next [BAND  
SELECT] button you press will “release” all of the previously  
selected bands. The only band that will be selected is the one you  
just pressed. You will know this happened, because only that  
band’s Gain LED will be blinking.  
If the Release Edit Group feature is set to “Off,” the next  
[BAND SELECT] button you press after you have changed the  
level of the Edit Group will simply add that band to the Edit  
Group. The upside of this is the convenience of being able to  
boost three frequencies +3 dB, for example, and then add another  
frequency to the pile and boost them all another +2 dB without  
having to reselect the first three. The downside is that you will  
have to deselect all four bands if you want to grab one more  
frequency and edit it by itself.  
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46  
 
Basics of Equalization 3  
There are pros and cons to both ways of working. So, experiment  
with this feature and see which way works best for you.  
To enable or disable the Release Edit Group feature from this  
Utility mode page, just turn the [VALUE] encoder.  
Edit Time Out (On/Off)  
The Edit Time Out function serves as an “auto-exit” feature.  
When it is enabled, if you do not change the gain value of any  
band or Edit Group for 30 seconds, the DEQ830 will exit  
automatically to Program mode.  
We have included this feature so the DEQ830 can mold itself as  
seamlessly as possible into your working style. If you prefer not to  
have the unit continue reminding you it is still in Edit mode by  
blinking its LEDs (vying for your attention, as it were, with the VU  
meters on your mixer), then Edit Time Out is a feature you will  
appreciate.  
On the other hand, if you prefer to have the DEQ830 remain in  
Edit mode so you will not lose your chosen Edit Group when the  
unit returns to Program mode, you may want keep the Edit Time  
Out function off.  
The default setting for this function is "Off"; to enable it turn the  
[VALUE] encoder.  
MIDI Channel (ALL, 1-16)  
The setting for this function determines which MIDI channel the  
DEQ830 will use to send and receive program changes. The ALL  
setting means program changes will be received regardless of  
which channel they are on. When ALL is selected, program  
changes will be sent only on channel 1.  
Use the [VALUE] encoder to select the desired setting.  
MIDI Program Change (On/Off)  
This function determines whether the DEQ830 responds to MIDI  
Program Change messages. The default setting for the MIDI  
Program Change function is “On.” If you want the DEQ830 not  
to respond to program changes, use the [VALUE] encoder to  
change it to “Off.”  
MIDI Out/Thru Select (Out/Thru)  
Sometimes it is necessary to “daisy-chain” MIDI devices so the  
MIDI data from one unit will be passed through one or more  
other pieces of MIDI gear until it is able to reach the last unit in  
the chain. The DEQ830 will allow you to do that; just toggle this  
function’s setting from Out to Thru (displayed as “thr”).  
The setting on this page will not affect whether or not the  
DEQ830 will send its memory out the MIDI Out jack. When that  
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47  
3 Basics of Equalization  
command is initiated (Button 11), the sys-ex data will be sent in  
either case.  
Internal Clock Sample Rate Select (44.1/48)  
The DEQ830 automatically senses an incoming digital signal  
through its ADAT Optical input and slaves its internal clock to  
that, whether the rate is 44.1k or 48k. But if you need the  
DEQ830 to serve as an A/D converter, then it will need to be the  
master clock for the receiving device.  
You may prefer to record the output of the DEQ830 at either  
44.1k or 48k. Use the setting of this function to set the internal  
clock to the desired sample rate. Once your choice is confirmed,  
you’ll see the Sample Rate LEDs change from one rate to the other.  
Force Analog Input (Auto/Analog)  
There may be times when you want the DEQ830 to ignore an  
incoming digital signal. This function gives you an solution that is  
easier than reaching around to the back of the rack and  
unplugging the cable going into the ADAT Optical input.  
Auto is the default value. To force the DEQ830 to listen only to  
the balanced inputs, switch this setting from Auto to Analog.  
Fast Program Select (On/Off)  
This setting controls the behavior of the [VALUE] encoder as  
you use it to select programs. When this function is set to its  
default value of “On,” the current program will change instantly  
when you turn the [VALUE] encoder.  
When set to “Off,” turning the encoder will not immediately select  
a program. Instead, the display will flash the program numbers as  
you scroll through them, but the program won’t actually change  
until you press the [VALUE] encoder to confirm the selection.  
This prevents accidental program changes.  
Peak Mode (0, 1, 2, Inf)  
This function allows you to control the behavior of the Band Gain  
LEDs while in Real Time Analyzer mode, as described on page 44.  
System Exclusive Transmit (Send?)  
When on this page, pressing the [VALUE] encoder will cause the  
DEQ830 to transmit all of its programs and curves over the MIDI  
Out jack in “system exclusive” (sys-ex) format. This is a great way  
to back up your settings, and the combination of this function and  
the next makes it easy to configure the DEQ830 for particular  
applications.  
Once the transmission has begun, you will see a brief message of  
“Sending,” followed by the message “Done.”  
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48  
   
Basics of Equalization 3  
This process is not affected by the setting of the MIDI Out/Thru  
Select function. When you instruct the unit to Transmit, the sys-ex  
data will be sent whether the MIDI jack is set to Out or Thru.  
Receiving System Exclusive bulk dumps  
The DEQ830 is always ready to receive a new bank of programs  
and curves into its internal memory. Once an external device  
begins sending the proper sys-ex data, the DEQ830 will display  
the message “Rcving,” short for “receiving.” When the sys-ex  
transmission is complete, the DEQ830 will let you know by  
displaying the message “Done.” While the bank is being received,  
front panel edits and mode changes will be disabled.  
Warning! Sending a sys-ex  
bank into the DEQ830 will  
overwrite the internal  
memory. Make sure you  
have backed up internal  
memory before you load in  
a new set of programs and  
curves.  
There is one thing you can do during this time, though. If you  
change your mind in the middle of the transmission and realize  
you’ve loaded in the wrong bank (or worse, you forgot to back up  
the programs and curves first), you can interrupt the transmission  
by pressing the [PROGRAM] button. The display will show the  
word Aborted” and then return to Program mode. But you’d  
better act quickly, as the whole process takes only about 30  
seconds.  
And unfortunately, as soon the message “Rcving” is displayed the  
DEQ830 begins overwriting the Program and Curve Banks. If you  
saw that message you will have lost some data. But if you  
interrupted the transmission, you will have managed to save some  
of the programs and curves.  
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49  
 
3 Basics of Equalization  
The "Hidden" Modes  
There are a couple of sub-levels of operation that can be accessed  
by pressing different buttons. We covered a number of modes on  
the preceding pages; here are two more “hidden” modes:  
Demonstration mode  
Sometimes it’s fun to have a lot of little lights flashing from the  
stage or in the studio. The DEQ830 has a special key combination  
that will activate a “fireworks display” for the entertainment of  
your clients, audience, or children. In this mode the DEQ830  
automatically cycles through the first 25 programs at a rate of 1  
per second. To begin the pyrotechnics, first make sure you are in  
Program mode. Once you are, simultaneously press the  
[UTILITY] button and the [CHANNEL SELECT] button for  
Channel 6.  
To help prevent an accidental exit from Demonstration mode, only  
a few controls are active in this mode. The [MONITOR  
SELECT], [BYPASS] and [BYPASS ALL] buttons work the  
same way they do in Program mode (audio is bypassed by default).  
The [CHANNEL SELECT] buttons can be used to switch  
channels.  
To exit Demonstration mode, press the [PROGRAM] button.  
Lock mode  
To access Lock mode, first you must turn off the DEQ830. Then  
turn the unit back on, wait until you see the letters “DEQ830” in  
the display, and then hold down the [UTILITY] button. After a  
couple of seconds you will see the word "Lock" appear in large  
letters above the [BAND SELECT] buttons. This mode allows  
you to do one simple thing—lock the DEQ830’s controls. To do  
this, use the [VALUE] encoder to select “On” for the Lock  
function. Default is “Off,” of course.  
This function enables you to choose a particular program as the  
only one that can be selected once the DEQ830 is powered on.  
After this has been done, pressing any button besides the  
[POWER] button will cause the Numerical LED Display to show  
“Lo” for “locked.” This is handy for environments in which the  
DEQ830 is used for tuning a room, for example, or whenever you  
don't want someone calling up a different program, editing the  
current program, and/or storing a different program on top of the  
one you have created for a particular application.  
Before you try this feature,  
make sure you’re happy  
with the program you had  
selected prior to turning  
the unit off. It will be the  
program you are “stuck”  
with when you turn the unit  
back on after enabling the  
Lock feature.  
It's simple to restore the DEQ830 to full functionality (i.e.,  
“unlock” it). Just turn the unit off and power it up in Lock mode  
again (turn the unit on and then hold the [UTILITY] button).  
Then use the encoder to turn this feature off. The next time you  
power up the DEQ830, it will operate normally.  
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50  
     
Basics of Equalization 3  
Equalization Artifacts  
When you apply a lot of EQ (6dB or more), you may hear some  
consequences on the output. Here are a few common side effects  
to applying a lot of equalization and some ways to avoid them.  
The potential for artifacts is  
highly dependent on the  
audio source material. A  
DEQ830 curve that works  
well for processing one  
source may clip when  
Distortion  
If you boost too many frequencies too high, you will distort the  
output. If this happens, the channel’s red CLIP LED will light. To  
avoid this, turn down the signal being sent to the DEQ830. Other  
options include adjusting the Channel Level settings in Edit mode,  
or adjusting the Master Level setting in Utility mode. The best  
option is to try another method of achieving the desired effect: cut  
the highs instead of boosting the low frequencies; reduce the lows  
and highs instead of boosting the midrange, etc.  
processing another source,  
depending on which  
frequencies are present.  
Making the curve work may  
be simply a matter of a slight  
adjustment in the gain setting  
for one or two bands.  
Noise  
If you boost the high frequencies enough you may hear noise in  
your system that was inaudible otherwise. If this is objectionable,  
you may want to gate that channel when it isn’t being used or  
automate the console so that channel is muted when that  
instrument isn’t playing.  
Instruments usually sound  
better when you cut the  
problem frequencies instead  
of boosting the frequencies  
you want to feature.  
Phasing  
You may hear some phase distortion if you apply a lot of EQ,  
such as boosting 12dB on several bands, for example. This is just  
the nature of EQ—the more you cut or boost, the more phase  
distortion will occur. Try getting the same effect with less EQ; try  
cutting instead of boosting; try a different position for the  
microphone. All of these suggestions can help you to achieve the  
desired effect with minimal phase distortion.  
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51  
 
3 Basics of Equalization  
Constant Q vs. Variable Q  
What makes the DEQ830 unique?  
Early graphic equalizers relied solely on a form of equalization  
known as “Variable Q.” The DEQ830, on the other hand, is what  
is known as a “Constant Q” equalizer. This method of  
equalization is a relatively recent development in the history of  
sound reinforcement and recording technology. As you will see  
illustrated in the charts in this section, the Constant Q method  
allows for a higher degree of control over the sound being  
processed because of its significantly greater accuracy.  
Before we go any further, it’s time for some definitions:  
Q
The range of frequencies affected by a band  
Variable Q  
A process in which the range of frequencies  
affected by a band changes as the amount of  
gain is cut/boosted  
Constant Q  
A process in which the range of frequencies  
affected by a band stays the same as the  
amount of gain is cut/boosted  
It may help to define these terms visually as well.  
In the following illustration, we see the three basic terms that  
govern the operation of a single band. The vertical bar of the  
graph represents decibels of cut/boost, and the horizontal bar  
represents frequency in Hz. The dotted line leading to the center  
of the curve indicates the frequency at which this band is set. You  
can see that in this example, Q covers a range of frequencies from  
about 200 Hz to about 5 KHz.  
In the next illustration, the difference between a narrow Q and a  
wide Q is seen:  
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52  
 
Basics of Equalization 3  
Variable Q  
In the next illustration, the wider and more gradual curve  
represents a lower gain setting for a Variable Q equalizer. The  
narrower and more steep curve represents a higher gain setting at  
the same frequency:  
The previous illustration has been exaggerated somewhat to make  
the point, but you can see how a lower gain setting also boosts  
frequencies that overlap to some extent into the regions affected  
by the next highest and lowest frequency band controls.  
Constant Q  
In contrast, a Constant Q equalizer has a more consistent range of  
frequencies under its control throughout its cut/boost range, as  
illustrated below:  
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53  
3 Basics of Equalization  
Multi-band application and results  
So far we have only dealt with cutting or boosting single frequency  
bands. The differences between the Constant Q and Variable Q  
methods become more “graphic,” if you will, when adjacent  
frequency bands are involved.  
In this example, three adjacent bands are used. They have settings  
of + 6 dB, 0 dB, and + 6 dB, respectively:  
You can see how the 0 dB setting on the Variable Q equalizer  
merely serves to round off the top of the curve; in actuality, this  
translates into a boost in the range of frequencies under that  
band's control. You would have to cut the gain on that band  
significantly to reduce the unintended consequences of boosting  
the other two frequency ranges.  
The Constant Q equalizer, on the other hand, has more precise  
control over each of the frequency bands. As you can see in this  
example, the effect on the center band is significantly lower:  
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54  
Basics of Equalization 3  
To further illustrate the differences, here is a pair of examples in  
which three adjacent bands have settings of + 3 dB, -3 dB, and + 3  
dB, respectively:  
Remember that at lower gain settings, there is an even wider Q for  
a given frequency band on a Variable Q equalizer. The center  
frequency band needs to be edited even more drastically in order  
for any noticeable reduction of frequencies in its range.  
The corresponding illustration for the Constant Q equalizer speaks  
for itself:  
We offer this information regarding the differences between  
Constant Q and Variable Q equalizers not as an attempt to  
persuade the world to reject Variable Q equalizers out of hand; in  
some applications either would do the job nicely. But when a  
greater degree of control over the program material is needed, a  
Constant Q equalizer like the DEQ830 offers a significant  
advantage.  
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3 Basics of Equalization  
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56  
4 Applications  
This section is designed to get you started with the DEQ830 by  
giving some sample settings. These are merely suggested settings;  
experiment and find your own once you begin to hear what the  
DEQ830 does to your sound.  
In a way, it’s absurd to suggest EQ settings without knowing what  
the source sounds like. EQ is a tool that’s used to change the  
timbre of a sound, and it’s impossible to suggest an EQ setting  
that, for example, will make all guitars sound better. So the goal of  
this section is to give you some ideas for using EQ on your own  
tracks.  
General EQ tips  
Rock Kick Drum  
A rock and roll kick drum is usually EQ’d quite a bit to make it  
sound the way it does on the radio. Usually an engineer will choose  
to cut some of the woofy low-midrange, while boosting the high-  
end "slap" and maybe even some of the lows. Here is a setting to  
try on a close-miked kick drum:  
Select all frequencies below 80Hz and boost 3dB  
Cut 500Hz by 8dB  
Boost all frequencies above 5kHz by 4dB  
You may also want to apply some compression and gating with the  
Alesis CLX-440.  
Vocal Air  
A popular effect on vocals is to boost the high frequencies to add  
"air" to the vocal. This is an especially popular effect on ballads  
sung by R&B divas. This effect is achieved by boosting the high  
frequencies:  
Boost 16 kHz by 6dB  
Boost 20 kHz by 6dB  
Tape Hiss Removal  
If a recording has a lot of tape hiss, such as one transferred from  
cassette, you can usually get rid of it by dropping the high  
frequencies a bit:  
Select all frequencies from 8kHz up and cut them by 6dB  
Adjust the gain of different bands to compromise between  
keeping the high end of the recording and eliminating tape hiss.  
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57  
 
4 Applications  
Eliminating Feedback  
During a live performance, you may experience feedback if a  
microphone is placed too close to a monitor. However, this  
feedback often occurs at one frequency before it happens at  
others. You can "ring out" the monitor by using EQ to cut the  
frequency that’s feeding back. The following is best to try when the  
band and audience are not present:  
This procedure can be an  
effective tool in isolating and  
eliminating feedback in the  
main or house system as well.  
1. Insert the EQ between the mixer’s monitor output and the  
monitor amplifier.  
2. Slowly and carefully raise the monitor level to the point of  
feedback. Notice that it always feeds back at the same  
frequency unless the mic is moved a lot. As soon as you hear  
feedback, turn the monitor level down, but not off.  
3. Select a band that is near where you think the feedback is  
occurring. For example, if you’re getting high-frequency  
feedback, try 6.3 kHz.  
4. Slowly raise the 6.3 kHz Band Gain level while listening for  
feedback. If you hear feedback, cut that frequency because you  
guessed right.  
5. If you don’t hear feedback, return that band to “0” and repeat  
this procedure with another frequency band. Once you hear  
feedback, cut that frequency.  
If you don’t hear feedback at any frequency using this method, try  
boosting the monitor level a little more.  
Filtering effects  
The answering machine  
A popular vocal effect is to filter the voice to a limited frequency  
range. This “telephone” effect can be used on any instrument or  
mix. Here’s how to get that sound on the DEQ830:  
1. Press all of the [BAND SELECT] buttons in the ranges  
from 25 Hz to 630 Hz and from 6.3 kHz to 20 kHz on the  
channel you are using. Or you can hold down a [BAND  
SELECT] button and turn the [VALUE] encoder to select  
these frequency ranges.  
2. Use the [VALUE] encoder to reduce all of these frequencies  
until their LEDs are at -12 dB.  
3. Select all of the unedited frequencies and boost them as high  
as you can without clipping the signal.  
4. Be sure to toggle the [BYPASS] button to compare the result  
with the original.  
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58  
 
Applications 4  
Comb filtering  
You'll understand how this effect process got its name once you  
see the way it looks when recreated on the DEQ830. This one  
works especially well with two channels that carry the left and right  
signals from a stereo audio source:  
Note: depending on the  
incoming audio, it may be  
necessary to reduce the gain  
on some bands to prevent  
clipping.  
1. Starting from the far left of the band spectrum, press every  
other [BAND SELECT] button and take those bands all the  
way down to -12 dB. Then select the unedited bands and boost  
them +6 dB. When you’re done, look at the LEDs on the  
DEQ830 and remember the “comb” analogy. The bands set to  
+6 dB are the “teeth” of the comb, and those set to –12 dB  
are the spaces between the teeth.  
There are preset curves similar  
to the ones used in these  
examples. You may find it  
interesting to compare the way  
various audio sources are  
affected by somewhat similar  
curves.  
2. For an even more interesting effect, unlink the first channel  
from the channel carrying the other side of the stereo  
spectrum and create the exact opposite settings. In other  
words, take the “odd” bands on the second channel to +6 dB  
this time and the “even” bands to –12 dB. Be sure to toggle  
the [BYPASS] and [LINK] status of each channel to get an  
idea of what is being done to the signal as it passes through  
the DEQ830.  
3. Experiment with different sized "teeth" and "spaces." Put two  
adjacent frequencies down and the next one up, repeating the  
pattern. Try "broken" teeth (i.e., boosting some frequencies  
more than others)! Adjust which frequencies to emphasize/de-  
emphasize to suit the incoming audio.  
Settings chart  
We've provided the chart on the next page because we know some  
of you prefer to have a hard copy of your favorite settings. And  
thanks to the digital heart of the DEQ830, you'll always be able to  
reconstruct the curve exactly as it was using the numbers you write  
down.  
A few notes about filling out the chart:  
1. When a value is exact, like +8 or –4, place a dot in the  
appropriate square above the band.  
2. When the band’s value is zero, or flat, draw a dash through that  
square instead of a dot. This will help you keep track of  
numbers above and below zero by giving you a visual  
reference point (just as the green LED does on the front  
panel). You’ll naturally begin to draw an extended line through  
consecutive bands when they’re all set to zero.  
3. For intermediate values like +3.5, we suggest writing that  
number in the square above that band which most closely  
approximates the actual value.  
4. Don’t forget to record the Channel Level setting!  
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59  
 
4 Applications  
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60  
5 Troubleshooting  
Line Conditioners and Protectors  
Although the DEQ830 is designed to tolerate typical voltage  
variations, in today’s world the voltage coming from the AC line  
may contain spikes or transients. These can cause audible noises,  
and they can stress your gear and, over time, possibly cause a  
failure. There are two main ways to protect against this, listed in  
ascending order of cost and complexity:  
Line spike/surge protectors. Relatively inexpensive, these  
are designed to protect against strong surges and spikes, acting  
somewhat like fuses in that they need to be replaced if they’ve  
been hit by an extremely strong spike.  
Line filters. These generally combine spike/surge protection  
with filters that remove some line noise (dimmer hash,  
transients from other appliances, etc.). A good example is the  
Isobar™ series from Tripp Lite.  
Care and Maintenance  
Do not spray cleaning  
solution of any sort onto the  
front panel of the DEQ830.  
If a cleaning becomes  
necessary, spray a  
recommended cleaning  
solution onto a cloth first,  
and use the cloth to clean  
the front panel.  
Cleaning  
Disconnect the AC power supply, then use a damp cloth to clean  
the DEQ830’s metal and plastic surfaces. For heavy dirt, use a  
non-abrasive household cleaner such as Formula 409™ or  
Fantastik™. DO NOT SPRAY THE CLEANER DIRECTLY  
ONTO THE FRONT OF THE UNIT AS IT MAY DESTROY  
THE LUBRICANTS USED IN THE SWITCHES AND  
CONTROLS! Spray onto a cloth, and then use the cloth to clean  
the unit.  
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61  
 
5 Troubleshooting  
Troubleshooting Index  
Symptoms  
Cause  
Solution  
Test with a known good  
input.  
No audio at outputs.  
Weak output signal.  
Clip LED lights often.  
No input audio.  
Bad cables.  
Destination is turned  
down.  
Replace the cables.  
Check the connections  
and the level of the mixer  
or amp to which the  
DEQ830 is connected.  
Increase level from source  
into DEQ830.  
Boost channel levels of  
quiet program.  
Boost Master Level in  
Utility mode.  
Input level weak.  
Output level weak.  
(Decide which is the case  
by pressing the Bypass  
button.)  
Input level too high.  
Reduce input level at  
source.  
Output level too high.  
Reduce gain of problem  
bands within program.  
(Decide which is the case  
by pressing the Bypass  
button.)  
Reduce channel levels of  
that program.  
Reduce Master Level in  
Utility mode.  
Can’t select new program,  
display keeps blinking.  
Program Fast is set to  
“Off.”  
Press encoder to confirm  
program selection, or  
change Program Fast  
setting in Utility mode.  
Refer to page 48.  
Can’t edit program, can’t  
select new program.  
Numerical LED Display  
keeps flashing “Lo.”  
DEQ830 is locked.  
DEQ830 is locked.  
Unlock DEQ830 in Lock  
mode. Refer to page 50.  
Unlock DEQ830 in Lock  
mode. Refer to page 50.  
Must de-select all bands in  
order to edit a single band.  
Release Edit Group  
function set to Off.  
Set Release Edit Group  
function to On in Utility  
mode.  
Analog input is ignored  
Digital input is ignored  
Digital signal present at  
ADAT Optical Input.  
Change Force Analog  
Input setting in Utility  
mode.  
Force Analog Input is set  
to Analog in Utility mode.  
Ditto.  
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Troubleshooting 5  
Refer All Servicing to Alesis  
We believe that the DEQ830 is one of the best signal processors  
that can be made using current technology, and should provide  
years of trouble-free use. However, should problems occur, DO  
NOT attempt to service the unit yourself unless you have training  
and experience. Service on this product should be performed only  
by qualified technicians. NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS  
INSIDE.  
Obtaining Repair Service  
Before contacting Alesis, check over all your cable connections,  
and make sure you’ve read the manual.  
Customers in the USA and Canada:  
If the problem persists, contact Alesis and request the Technical  
Support department. Make sure you have the unit’s serial number  
with you. Talk the problem over with one of our technicians; if  
necessary, you will be given a return authorization (RA) number  
and instructions on how to return the unit. All units must be  
shipped prepaid and COD shipments will not be accepted.  
For prompt service, indicate the RA number on the shipping label.  
Units without an RA will not be accepted. If you do not have the  
original packing, ship the unit in a sturdy carton, with shock-  
absorbing materials such as Styrofoam pellets (the kind without  
CFCs, please) or "bubble-pack" surrounding the unit. Shipping  
damage caused by inadequate packing is not covered by the Alesis  
warranty.  
Tape a note to the top of the unit describing the problem,  
including your name and a phone number where Alesis can  
contact you if necessary, as well as instructions on where you want  
the product returned. Alesis will pay for standard one-way  
shipping back to you on any repair covered under the terms of this  
warranty. Next day service is available for a surcharge. Field repairs  
are not authorized during the warranty period, and repair attempts  
by unqualified personnel may invalidate the warranty.  
Customers outside the USA and Canada:  
Contact your local Alesis distributor for any warranty assistance.  
The Alesis Limited Warranty applies only to products sold to users  
in the USA and Canada. Customers outside of the USA and  
Canada are not covered by this Limited Warranty and may or may  
not be covered by an independent distributor warranty in the  
country of sale. Do not return products to the factory unless you  
have been given specific instructions to do so.  
Internet Address:  
Important information and advice is available on our Web site:  
Email may be addressed to [email protected].  
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63  
5 Troubleshooting  
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64  
Specifications  
Rear Panel I/O (switchable)  
Analog:  
All measurements done over  
a 22 Hz - 22 kHz range with 1  
kHz sine wave at -1dBFS  
input. Impedances are  
Input Connectors:  
Output Connectors:  
8 balanced 1/4” TRS jacks  
8 balanced 1/4” TRS jacks  
Digital:  
Input Connector:  
Output Connector:  
measured at 1 kHz.  
1 ADAT Optical  
1 ADAT Optical  
Switch set to +4:  
Nominal input level:  
Maximum input level:  
+4dBu (-15dBFS)  
+19dBu (6.9 Vrms)  
Nominal Output Level:  
Maximum Output Level:  
+4dBu (-15dBFS)  
+19dBu (6.9 Vrms)  
Switch set to –10:  
Nominal input level:  
Maximum input level:  
-10dBV (-16dBFS)  
+6dBV (2.0 Vrms)  
Nominal Output Level:  
Maximum Output Level:  
-10dBV (-16dBFS)  
+6dBV (2.0 Vrms)  
Input impedance:  
Output Impedance:  
10k  
220Ω  
MIDI:  
MIDI Input:  
MIDI Output:  
1 5-pin female DIN  
1 5-pin female DIN  
Audio Performance  
Signal To Noise Ratio:  
THD+N:  
>100dB A-Weighted, Analog In  
to Analog Out  
<0.005%, Analog In to Analog  
Out  
Frequency Response:  
Power Consumption:  
22-22kHz ± 0.50dB, Analog In  
to Analog Out  
15 Watts Max (100-240 VAC /  
50-60 Hz)  
Mechanical  
Size:  
Rack Spaces:  
Weight:  
1.75" H x 19.0" W x 5" D  
1 Space  
3.0 lbs. (1.4 kg)  
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65  
   
Specifications  
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66  
Warranty / Contact  
Alesis LimitedWarranty  
ALESIS CORPORATION ("ALESIS") warrants this product to be free of defects  
in material and workmanship for a period of one (1) year for parts and for a period of  
one (1) year for labor from the date of original retail purchase. This warranty is  
enforceable only by the original retail purchaser and cannot be transferred or assigned.  
For the most effective service, the purchaser should register the purchase on the  
During the warranty period ALESIS shall, at its sole and absolute option, either repair  
or replace free of charge any product that proves to be defective on inspection by  
ALESIS or its authorized service representative. In all cases disputes concerning this  
warranty shall be resolved as prescribed by law.  
To obtain warranty service, the purchaser must first call or write ALESIS at the  
address and telephone number available on the Alesis Website to obtain a Return  
Authorization Number and instructions concerning where to return the unit for  
service. All inquiries must be accompanied by a description of the problem. All  
authorized returns must be sent to ALESIS or an authorized ALESIS repair facility  
postage prepaid, insured and properly packaged. Proof of purchase must be  
presented in the form of a bill of sale, canceled check or some other positive proof  
that the product is within the warranty period. ALESIS reserves the right to update  
any unit returned for repair. ALESIS reserves the right to change or improve design  
of the product at any time without prior notice.  
For more effective  
service and product  
update notices, please  
register your DEQ830  
online at:  
This warranty does not cover claims for damage due to abuse, neglect, alteration or  
attempted repair by unauthorized personnel, and is limited to failures arising during  
normal use that are due to defects in material or workmanship in the product.  
THE ABOVE WARRANTIES ARE IN LIEU OF ANY OTHER  
WARRANTIES OR REPRESENTATIONS WHETHER EXPRESS OR  
IMPLIED OR OTHERWISE, WITH RESPECT TO THE PRODUCT, AND  
SPECIFICALLY EXCLUDE ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF FITNESS  
FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR MERCHANTABILITY OR OTHER  
IMPLIED WARRANTIES. Some states do not allow limitations on how long an  
implied warranty lasts, so the above limitation may not apply to you.  
IN NO EVENT WILL ALESIS BE LIABLE FOR INCIDENTAL,  
CONSEQUENTIAL, INDIRECT OR OTHER DAMAGES RESULTING  
FROM THE BREACH OF ANY EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTY,  
INCLUDING, AMONG OTHER THINGS, DAMAGE TO PROPERTY,  
DAMAGE BASED ON INCONVENIENCE OR ON LOSS OF USE OF THE  
PRODUCT, AND, TO THE EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, DAMAGES  
FOR PERSONAL INJURY. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of  
incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not  
apply to you.  
THIS CONTRACT SHALL BE GOVERNED BY THE INTERNAL LAWS OF  
THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA WITHOUT REFERENCE TO CONFLICTS  
OF LAWS. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other  
rights required by law which vary from state to state.  
This warranty only applies to products sold to purchasers in the United States of  
America or Canada. The terms of this warranty and any obligations of Alesis under  
this warranty shall apply only within the country of sale. Without limiting the  
foregoing, repairs under this warranty shall be made only by a duly authorized Alesis  
service representative in the country of sale. For warranty information in all other  
countries please refer to your local distributor.  
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67  
 
Warranty/Contact  
Alesis Contact Information  
Alesis Distribution, LLC  
Los Angeles, CA USA  
E-mail:  
Website:  
Alesis DEQ830 Reference Manual  
Revision A by Randy Lee, Taiho Yamada and Edwin Erdmann  
Revision B by Bret Victor  
Copyright 2003, Alesis Distribution, LLC. All rights reserved  
Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited. Specifications  
subject to change without notice.  
7-51-0138-C  
05/09/2003  
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68  
 

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