1. Introduction
The ALABS ORBITAL is a versatile pitch shifter and octave pedal designed for guitarists seeking to expand their sonic palette. Featuring 9 distinct shift types, analog dry-through, and multiple exploration modes, this pedal offers a wide range of creative possibilities for recording, live performance, and composition. Its robust design and intuitive controls make it an essential tool for any musician.
2. Safety Information
- Power Supply: Use only a 9V DC center-negative power adapter with a minimum current of 250mA. Using an incorrect power supply can damage the unit and void the warranty. The power supply is NOT included with the pedal.
- Environment: Do not expose the pedal to extreme temperatures, humidity, or direct sunlight. Keep away from water and other liquids.
- Handling: Avoid dropping or subjecting the pedal to strong impacts. Do not attempt to open or modify the unit, as this will void the warranty.
- Cleaning: Clean only with a dry, soft cloth.
3. Package Contents
Please check that all items are present in the box:
- ALABS ORBITAL Guitar Pedal
- User Manual (this document)
- Picks
- Stickers
Note: The power supply is NOT included. Please ensure you have a compatible 9V DC center-negative, 250mA power adapter.
4. Controls and Features Overview
The ALABS ORBITAL pedal features a range of controls to shape your sound:
- RATE Knob: Controls the speed or rate of certain modulation effects.
- DETUNE Knob: Adjusts the detuning amount for chorus-like or microtonal effects.
- MIX Knob: Blends the dry (unaffected) signal with the wet (effected) signal.
- GLIDE Knob: Controls the glide or portamento time between shifted notes.
- TONE Knob: Shapes the tonal character of the shifted signal.
- Shift Type Toggle Switch: Selects one of 9 pitch shift types:
- OCT (Octave Up)
- 5TH (Fifth Up)
- 4TH (Fourth Up)
- 3RD (Major Third Up)
- ROOT (Unison/Original Pitch)
- -3RD (Minor Third Down)
- -4TH (Fourth Down)
- -5TH (Fifth Down)
- -OCT (Octave Down)
- Footswitch: Engages/bypasses the effect. Also used for Momentary Operation and Multi-Expression Control.
- IN Jack: Mono input for your instrument.
- OUT L / OUT R Jacks: Stereo outputs for connecting to an amplifier or audio interface.
Key Technologies:
- Analog Dry Through: Features a controllable independent analog dry-through buffer amplification circuit. This preserves your unaffected, zero-latency, pure dry signal without any AD/DA conversion, maintaining your original tone's integrity.
- True Bypass: Utilizes a signal relay to effectively reduce pop and click noise when engaging or disengaging the effect. True bypass ensures optimal tonal integrity and zero loss of tone when the pedal is off.
- WAVE (Wizard Audio Virtual Engine): An exclusive audio engine designed for high-quality pitch shifting.
- True Stereo Operation: Supports stereo input and output for expansive soundscapes.
5. Setup
- Power Connection: Connect a 9V DC center-negative power adapter (minimum 250mA, not included) to the power input jack on the pedal.
- Instrument Connection: Connect your guitar or other instrument to the 'IN' jack using a standard 1/4-inch instrument cable.
- Output Connection: Connect the 'OUT L' jack to your amplifier or audio interface. For stereo operation, connect both 'OUT L' and 'OUT R' to two separate inputs on your amplifier setup or audio interface.
- Initial Settings: Before powering on, set all knobs to their middle position and the shift type toggle to 'ROOT' for a neutral starting point.
6. Operating Instructions
Engaging the Effect:
Press the footswitch once to toggle the effect on or off. The LED indicator will illuminate when the effect is active.
Selecting Pitch Shift Types:
Use the toggle switch to select one of the 9 available pitch shift intervals. Experiment with each setting to understand its unique sonic character.
Adjusting Parameters:
- RATE: Turn the RATE knob to adjust the speed of modulation or other time-based elements of the effect.
- DETUNE: Use the DETUNE knob to introduce subtle or extreme detuning, creating lush chorus, vibrato, or dissonant textures. This is key for Microtonal Pitch Modulation.
- MIX: Control the blend between your dry guitar signal and the processed pitch-shifted signal. A lower mix setting will be more subtle, while a higher setting will emphasize the effect.
- GLIDE: Adjust the GLIDE knob to control how smoothly the pitch transitions between notes. Higher settings will create a more noticeable 'slide' effect.
- TONE: Shape the frequency content of the shifted signal. Turn clockwise for brighter tones, counter-clockwise for darker tones.
Exploration Modes:
- Momentary Operation: The footswitch supports momentary operation. Press and hold the footswitch to engage the effect temporarily, releasing it to bypass. This allows for dynamic, real-time pitch modulation and expressive bursts of effect.
- Multi-Expression Control (∞ Explore Mode): This mode allows you to record and playback parameter changes. The pedal can memorize the variation curves of the RATE, DETUNE, MIX, and TONE parameters within a 5-second timeframe. Consult the full manual (if available) for detailed instructions on how to activate and program this feature for complex creative effects.
- Microtonal Pitch Modulation: By carefully adjusting the DETUNE knob, you can achieve subtle microtonal shifts and modulations, which can be used to polish the sound, create unique timbre, and expand the stereo sound field.
7. User Tips
- Experiment with Mix: Start with the MIX knob at 50% to hear both your dry and wet signals, then adjust to taste. For subtle harmonies, keep the mix lower. For full synth-like sounds, increase the mix.
- Stereo Field: Utilize the stereo outputs (OUT L and OUT R) to create a wider, more immersive soundscape, especially with detune and modulation effects.
- Momentary Creativity: Practice using the momentary footswitch function to add quick, expressive pitch shifts to specific notes or phrases in your playing.
- Power Supply: Always ensure your power supply meets the 9V DC center-negative, 250mA requirement to prevent unexpected behavior or damage.
8. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No sound when pedal is engaged. | Incorrect power supply, faulty cables, incorrect connections. | Check power adapter (9V DC, center negative, 250mA). Ensure all cables are securely connected. Test cables with another device. |
| Weak or distorted sound. | Low battery (if applicable, though this pedal does not use batteries), incorrect input level, improper power. | Ensure power supply meets specifications. Check instrument output level. Adjust pedal's MIX and TONE knobs. |
| Unwanted noise or hum. | Ground loop, interference from other pedals/power supplies. | Use an isolated power supply. Ensure all connections are secure. Try moving the pedal away from other electronic devices. |
| Effect not changing with knob adjustments. | Pedal in bypass mode, specific mode engaged that overrides knobs. | Ensure the pedal is engaged (LED on). Check if any advanced modes (e.g., Multi-Expression Control playback) are active. |
9. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | ALABS |
| Model Number | ORBITAL |
| Type | Guitar Octave Effects Pedal / Pitch Shifter |
| Audio Output Effects | Pitch shifter |
| Control Type | Pedal |
| Hardware Interface | AUX (1/4-inch jacks) |
| Power Supply | 9V DC (center negative) (NOT INCLUDED) |
| Current Draw | 250mA |
| Batteries Included | No |
| Origin | Mainland China |
| Package Weight | 0.4 kg |
| Package Dimensions (L x W x H) | 18 cm x 10 cm x 10 cm |
10. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the pedal's exterior. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Storage: When not in use for extended periods, disconnect the power supply and store the pedal in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Jacks and Knobs: Periodically check all jacks and knobs for any looseness. Avoid excessive force when plugging in cables or turning knobs.
11. Warranty and Support
ALABS products are designed for reliability and performance. For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the official ALABS website or contact your authorized dealer. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.