ALABS ORBITAL

ALABS ORBITAL Pitch Shifter Guitar Pedal Instruction Manual

Brand: ALABS | Model: ORBITAL

1. Setup

1.1 Power Requirements

The ALABS ORBITAL pedal requires a 9V DC center-negative power supply with a minimum current of 250mA. Ensure the power adapter meets these specifications to prevent damage to the unit. The power adapter is not included with the pedal.

1.2 Connecting the Pedal

Connect your guitar to the IN jack on the right side of the pedal. For mono output, connect the OUT L jack to your amplifier or next pedal in the signal chain. For true stereo operation, connect both the OUT L and OUT R jacks to separate amplifiers or stereo input devices.

ALABS ORBITAL Pitch Shifter Pedal front view with knobs and jacks — Figure 1: Front view of the ALABS ORBITAL pedal, showing control knobs and input/output jacks. The pedal features a red finish with cosmic-themed artwork.

ALABS ORBITAL Pitch Shifter Pedal connected to a guitar and amplifier — Figure 2: The ALABS ORBITAL pedal connected to a guitar and amplifier, illustrating typical setup. The input jack is on the right, and output jacks are on the left.

2. Operating Instructions

2.1 Controls

RATE Knob: Controls the speed of modulation or dynamic changes in Explore Mode.
DETUNE Knob: Adjusts the micro detune amount, up to ±100 cents. Also controls detune changes in Explore Mode.
MIX Knob: Blends the dry signal with the wet (effected) signal. Also controls mix changes in Explore Mode.
GLIDE Knob: Adjusts the transition speed for pitch bends and momentary effects.
TONE Knob: Adjusts the tone of the effected signal. Also controls tone changes in Explore Mode.
PITCH Selector Switch: A rotary switch to select one of 9 precise shift types: Up Octave, Up 5th, Up 4th, Up 3rd, Root, Down 3rd, Down 4th, Down 5th, Down Octave.
Footswitch: Engages/bypasses the effect. Hold to activate Explore Mode or momentary functions.
LED Indicator: Displays pedal status, mode, and Explore Mode activity.

2.2 Key Features and Modes

9 Precise Shift Types

The pedal offers 9 distinct pitch shift types, including octave up/down, 5th, 4th, 3rd, and micro detune up to ±100 cents. These options allow for a wide range of harmonic and octave effects.

ALABS ORBITAL Pitch Shifter Pedal with 9 Pitch Shift Types highlighted — Figure 3: Image highlighting the 9 pitch shift types available on the ALABS ORBITAL pedal, demonstrating its versatility for various musical needs.

Analog Dry-Through Circuit

The dry signal passes through a dedicated Analog Dry-Through buffer amplification circuit. This ensures zero-latency and preserves the original guitar tone without AD/DA conversion, maintaining signal purity when blended with the effect.

ALABS ORBITAL Pitch Shifter Pedal with Analog Dry-Through feature — Figure 4: Illustration of the Analog Dry-Through feature, showing the pedal connected and emphasizing the unaffected dry signal path.

∞ Explore Dynamic Mode

Hold the footswitch to activate the exclusive ∞ Explore Mode. This mode allows you to record and playback dynamic changes to the RATE, DETUNE, MIX, and TONE knobs within a 5-second timeframe. This adds evolving motion and creative texture to your sound without external controllers.

Microtonal True Stereo Mode

Utilizing dual outputs, the pedal delivers a microtonal true stereo experience. Each side shifts pitch differently, creating a wide, three-dimensional soundscape that enhances any mix.

Expressive Glide & Momentary Modes

Switch between latched or momentary operation for instant pitch bends or locked harmonies. The Glide control shapes smooth transitions, ideal for expressive whammy-style solos and cinematic sound design.

ALABS ORBITAL Pitch Shifter Pedal with Momentary Operation — Figure 7: The ALABS ORBITAL pedal illustrating momentary operation, allowing for dynamic real-time pitch modulation.

Selectable Bypass Modes

The pedal offers two bypass modes: Relay-Based True Bypass and Transparent Analog Buffer Bypass. True Bypass ensures the effect has no impact on the signal when turned off. Buffer Bypass amplifies and restores the input signal, reducing output impedance for accurate transmission and preventing signal loss.

2.3 Official Product Videos

Video 1: ALABS ORBITAL Pitch Shifter Pedal demonstration. This video provides an overview of the pedal's features and sound capabilities.

Video 2: Review of the ALABS Pitch Shifter Pedal by clips_mike hermans. This video offers a user perspective on the pedal's performance.

Video 3: ALABS ORBITAL Pitch Shifter Pedal Review from 60 Cycle Hum. This video provides a detailed review and sound samples from a known guitar gear reviewer.

3. Maintenance

Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the pedal's exterior. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.
Storage: Store the pedal in a dry environment away from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight.
Power: Always disconnect the power supply when the pedal is not in use for extended periods.
Handling: Handle the pedal with care to avoid physical damage to knobs, switches, and jacks.

4. Troubleshooting

Problem	Possible Cause	Solution
No sound when pedal is engaged.	Incorrect power supply, faulty cables, incorrect connections.	Verify 9V DC center-negative power supply (250mA minimum). Check all cable connections. Test with different cables.
Unwanted noise or hum.	Ground loop, faulty power supply, interference from other pedals.	Use an isolated power supply. Ensure all cables are in good condition. Try moving the pedal away from other electronic devices.
Effect is too subtle or too dominant.	MIX knob setting.	Adjust the MIX knob to achieve the desired blend of dry and wet signals.
Pitch shift sounds unnatural or glitchy.	Extreme settings, input signal issues.	Experiment with different PITCH Selector settings. Ensure a clean input signal.

5. Specifications

Model: ORBITAL
Item Weight: 1.05 pounds (476 Grams)
Product Dimensions: 4.86"L x 2.57"W x 1.39"H (12.34 x 6.53 x 3.53 cm)
Color: Pitch Red
Power Source: Corded Electric
Voltage: 9 Volts (DC)
Current Draw: 250mA (minimum)
Hardware Interface: 1/4-inch Audio
Signal Format: Analog (Dry-Through)
Proficiency Level: Advanced, Beginner

6. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official ALABS website or contact your local dealer. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.

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