Align Series Equalizer
User’s Guide
Introduction
Based on the circuit of the esteemed Para Acoustic DI, the Align Equalizer combines our signature, high-graded FET gain stage with powerful tone-shaping EQ that injects richness and balance to any acoustic pickup signal. A 6-band EQ shapes the frequencies we found most useful for improving acoustic guitar pickups with the flexibility needed to cover other acoustic instruments effectively. Multi-instrumentalists can incorporate dedicated EQ pedals for level matching a variety of instruments and tailoring a specific EQ for each one.
Getting Started
Power the Equalizer with a 9V power supply or a 9V battery.
Plug your instrument into the ¼” input to activate the Equalizer (upper right hand side) and a cable into the ¼” output (upper left hand side).
Adjust the gain using the gain switch. Read section D in this manual for setting your gain to the appropriate level.
Plug the ¼” cable into your amp, PA, or next pedal in the signal chain and experiment with the Equalizer.
Top Features
A. Notch
The notch filter is designed to help control feedback. If your guitar begins to feedback, slowly turn the notch control clockwise. The offending frequency will stop instantly when the notch is in the proper position.
B. Instrument Input
The ¼” input is an unbalanced (mono), all-discrete input. Plugging into the input will activate the Equalizer, therefore, unplugging will turn the system off.
C. 6-Band EQ
The Equalizer’s 6-band EQ controls shape the frequencies we found most useful for improving acoustic guitar pickups with the flexibility needed to cover other acoustic instruments effectively. Use the controls to raise or lower each individual frequency to meet the needs of your instrument or to balance your tone in the room.
D. Gain
The gain switch was designed to allow for quick, easy adjustments of your input level. This switch ranges between -6dB (half of normal level), 0dB (no change to normal level), and +6dB (twice normal level). This can be used to accommodate for a passive pickup (+6dB), or a pickup that is too hot (-6dB).
E. Phase
Press this button to invert the phase. Usually, one phase will provide better sound and feedback resistance. With all acoustic instruments it is important to try both phases each time you set up, because phase is relative to your position on the stage.
F. Engage
Press the footswitch to engage the tone shaping tools. When the light is on, all of the controls on the Equalizer are engaged. When the light is off, the whole pedal is true bypassed.
G. High-Pass Filter
The high-pass filter may be used to attenuate extraneous low frequencies, allowing for an appropriate mix with different instruments, playing situations, and sound systems. The variable “hpf” switches between 40Hz, 80Hz, and 120Hz.
H. ¼” Output
The ¼” output is an unbalanced, line level output. You can plug into any amp or device that has a ¼” input. We recommend running into any other LR Baggs Align pedals, DI’s, or the Synapse Personal PA System.
I. Volume
The master volume will help you find a balance between your engaged and bypassed signal. It is only active when the engage light is on. Keep in mind that your 6-band EQ controls and gain switch will affect this balance.
Side View
A. DC Input
The DC power input is designed for a standard 2mm plug commonly used with effects pedals and “floor-box” products. Most power supplies or multi-power devices designed for musical products may be used. 9VDC recommended with a 12VDC maximum. Plugging in a power supply will activate the Equalizer.
Limited Warranty
L.R. Baggs warrants to the using purchaser that this product shall be free of defects in workmanship and materials under normal and proper use for a period of one year. If you experience problems with this product, please contact your dealer.
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Specifications
1/4” INPUT
Input Impedance: 5.1 Megohms
Preamp Gain: -6dB,0dB, +6dB
Input Level: -25dBv to +3dBv (0.056Vrms to 1.414Vrms)
EQ
High-Pass Filter: 40Hz, 80Hz, 120Hz
Notch: -20dB, sweepable from 40Hz to 300Hz 1/8 octave
85Hz: +/-9dB
350Hz: +/-9dB
700Hz: +/-9dB
1.6kHz: +/-9dB
4.8kHz: +/-9dB
10kHz: +/-9dB
LINE OUTPUT
Output Level: -1.4dBv (0.848Vrms) Unbalanced
Output Impedance: 470 Ohms
POWER
DC Power Consumption: 43mW Max at 9V
DC Current Draw: 4.5mA
Voltage Range: 7.5VDC – 12VDC
Power Supply: 9VDC with 100mA minimum
*IMPORTANT: polarity Pos (+) on outside, Gnd (-) on center
9V Battery Life: 110 hours
Signal to Noise: 90dB, Unweighted
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS
0.85 Lbs, 5” Length x 3.25” Width x 2” Depth
These specifications may change without notice.