Source Audio Collider Manual: A Comprehensive Plan
This manual provides a detailed guide to the Source Audio Collider Delay/Reverb pedal. It covers everything from initial setup and interface understanding, to advanced editing and troubleshooting.
Explore its twin-processor architecture, 12 unique engines, and the power of the Neuro Editor software for complete customization. Unlock sonic possibilities!
Welcome to the world of the Source Audio Collider Delay/Reverb, a cutting-edge stereo effects pedal meticulously engineered for expansive sonic exploration. This isn’t just another pedal; it’s a dual-engine powerhouse, combining six distinct delay and six lush reverb algorithms within a single, streamlined unit.
The Collider empowers guitarists, bassists, and keyboardists alike to sculpt breathtaking soundscapes, ranging from subtle ambient textures to wildly experimental effects. Digital signal processing advancements have allowed for this level of sonic flexibility, pushing the boundaries of what’s achievable in a stompbox format.
This pedal is designed for both intuitive, immediate gratification and deep, granular control. Whether you’re seeking inspiring presets or crafting your own signature sounds, the Collider offers a versatile platform. The included Neuro Editor software unlocks even greater potential, allowing for complete customization and preset management.
Prepare to embark on a journey of sonic discovery with the Source Audio team, and we eagerly anticipate hearing the incredible sounds you create!
Unboxing and Initial Setup
Carefully unpack your Source Audio Collider and verify that all components are present. The box should contain the Collider pedal itself, a dedicated power supply, a USB cable for connecting to the Neuro Editor software, a Quick Start Reference Card, and this comprehensive User Manual.
Before connecting the power, visually inspect the pedal for any signs of shipping damage. Place the Collider on a stable surface in a well-ventilated area. Connect the included power supply to the DC input jack on the rear panel – ensure the voltage matches your local power standards.
Next, connect your instrument to the input jack and your amplifier or audio interface to the output jack. For optimal performance, use high-quality instrument cables. Initially, set all knobs to the 12 o’clock position as a neutral starting point.
Download and install the Neuro Editor software from the Source Audio website (www.sourceaudio.net) to unlock the full potential of your Collider. Refer to the ‘Connecting to the Neuro Editor’ section for detailed instructions.
Powering the Collider
The Source Audio Collider requires a stable 9V DC power supply, and thankfully, one is included! Do not attempt to power the pedal with batteries or an unapproved power adapter, as this could cause damage and void your warranty. Only use the provided power supply to ensure optimal performance and prevent potential issues.
Connect the barrel of the power supply to the 9V DC input jack located on the rear panel of the Collider. Ensure the polarity matches the symbol next to the jack (center negative). A secure connection is crucial; a loose connection can lead to intermittent operation or noise.
The Collider draws approximately 100mA of current. While it can be used with standard pedalboard power supplies, it’s recommended to use a regulated power supply to minimize noise. Avoid daisy-chaining multiple effects pedals from a single power supply if possible, as this can sometimes introduce unwanted hum or interference.
Once powered on, the Collider’s footswitches will illuminate, indicating it’s ready for use. Always power down the pedal before making any input/output connections or adjustments.
Understanding the Pedal’s Interface
The Source Audio Collider boasts a streamlined interface designed for intuitive control. The front panel features a series of knobs, footswitches, and an LCD screen, all working in harmony to shape your sound. The LCD screen displays parameter values, preset names, and menu options.
You’ll find dedicated knobs for Delay and Reverb controls, allowing quick adjustments to key parameters like Time, Feedback, Mix, and Tone. These knobs offer precise control over the core characteristics of each effect. The ‘Neuro’ button accesses the deeper editing capabilities via the Neuro Editor software.
The two footswitches – Delay/Tap and Reverb – engage and disengage the respective effect engines. Holding the Delay/Tap footswitch allows for manual tempo tapping, crucial for rhythmic delay effects. The LCD screen provides visual feedback for all adjustments.
Input and Output jacks are located on the rear panel, alongside the 9V DC power input and MIDI connections. Familiarizing yourself with the layout will significantly enhance your workflow and creative exploration.
Footswitch Functions: Delay/Tap & Reverb
The Source Audio Collider features two primary footswitches: Delay/Tap and Reverb. Each offers distinct functionalities, enabling seamless performance control. The Delay/Tap footswitch toggles the delay engine on and off with a single press. However, its versatility extends beyond simple activation.
Holding down the Delay/Tap footswitch initiates the tap tempo function. Repeatedly pressing the switch sets the delay time, perfect for synchronizing delays with the song’s tempo. This is invaluable for creating rhythmic and dynamic delay effects. The LCD screen visually confirms the tapped tempo.
The Reverb footswitch operates similarly, toggling the reverb engine on and off. It allows for instant access to lush ambient textures or subtle room tones. Both footswitches support external switch control, expanding performance possibilities.
These footswitches are central to the Collider’s live performance capabilities, offering intuitive control over both delay and reverb effects. Mastering their functions unlocks a world of sonic expression;
Exploring the Delay Engines
The Source Audio Collider boasts six distinct delay engines, each offering a unique sonic character. These range from pristine digital delays to warm analog emulations and creative modulation effects. The ‘Tape’ engine replicates the saturation and wow & flutter of vintage tape echo units, while ‘Dyna Delay’ provides dynamic filtering and pitch shifting.
‘Dual Delay’ allows layering of two separate delay lines for complex rhythmic textures. ‘Reverse’ creates ethereal reversed delay effects, and ‘Pattern Delay’ enables rhythmic subdivisions and gate-like patterns. Finally, ‘Swirl’ introduces swirling, modulated delays for psychedelic soundscapes.
Each engine features adjustable parameters like Time, Feedback, Mix, and Filter. The Neuro Editor unlocks deeper control, allowing customization of delay characteristics. Experimenting with these engines reveals a vast palette of delay possibilities, from subtle echoes to expansive soundscapes.
These diverse delay engines are the heart of the Collider, offering unparalleled versatility for guitarists and sound designers alike.
Detailed Look at the Reverb Engines
The Source Audio Collider features six equally impressive reverb engines, designed to create immersive and inspiring spaces. These range from classic spring and plate reverbs to expansive hall and shimmer algorithms. The ‘Spring’ engine faithfully recreates the characteristic twang and decay of vintage spring reverbs, while ‘Plate’ delivers a smooth, dense ambience.
‘Hall’ provides large, realistic hall simulations, perfect for adding depth and grandeur. ‘Shimmer’ introduces octave-up or octave-down reverb tails for ethereal textures. ‘Bloom’ creates a lush, evolving reverb with modulated feedback, and ‘Reverse’ generates captivating reversed reverb effects.
Like the delay engines, each reverb engine offers adjustable parameters like Decay Time, Pre-Delay, Mix, and Tone. The Neuro Editor unlocks advanced controls, allowing detailed shaping of the reverb character. Explore these engines to craft everything from subtle ambience to dramatic, otherworldly soundscapes.
These versatile reverb engines complement the delay section, making the Collider a complete sonic toolkit.
Twin-Processor Architecture Explained
The Source Audio Collider’s core strength lies in its innovative twin-processor architecture. This design dedicates one processor to the delay section and another to the reverb section, enabling both effects to operate simultaneously without compromising audio quality or introducing unwanted latency. Traditional pedals often struggle when running both delay and reverb concurrently, resulting in a muddied or compressed sound.
By separating the processing tasks, the Collider delivers pristine, high-fidelity effects. This allows for complex layering of delay and reverb textures, creating rich and dynamic soundscapes. Each processor independently handles its respective algorithms, ensuring optimal performance and responsiveness.
This architecture also facilitates serial or parallel routing of the delay and reverb engines. Experiment with placing the delay before the reverb for cascading echoes, or running them in parallel for a wider, more spacious sound. The twin-processor design is key to the Collider’s versatility and sonic power.
Navigating the Neuro Editor Software
The Neuro Editor is Source Audio’s powerful software application for deep editing and preset management of the Collider. Accessible via USB connection, it unlocks the full potential of the pedal’s twin-processor architecture and 12 unique effects engines. The intuitive graphical interface allows for precise control over every parameter, far beyond the capabilities of the pedal’s onboard controls.
Upon launching the Neuro Editor, you’ll be greeted with a visual representation of the signal chain, displaying the selected delay and reverb algorithms. Parameters are organized logically, with clear labeling and real-time visual feedback. Drag-and-drop functionality simplifies reordering effects and experimenting with different routing configurations.
The software also features a comprehensive library of factory presets, as well as the ability to create, save, and share your own custom sounds. Explore advanced features like modulation routing, expression pedal assignments, and MIDI control mapping.
Connecting to the Neuro Editor
Connecting your Source Audio Collider to the Neuro Editor software is a straightforward process. First, ensure you have downloaded and installed the latest version of the Neuro Editor from the Source Audio website (www.sourceaudio.net). Then, using a standard USB cable (Type-B to Type-A), connect the Collider directly to an available USB port on your computer.
Once connected, power on the Collider. The Neuro Editor should automatically detect the pedal. If it doesn’t, click the “Refresh” button within the software. A successful connection will be indicated by the pedal’s name appearing in the Neuro Editor’s device selection menu.
Before proceeding, it’s recommended to check your computer’s audio settings to ensure the Collider is recognized as an audio interface. The Neuro Editor allows for firmware updates directly through the USB connection, ensuring your pedal always has the latest features and improvements.
Customizing Presets with the Neuro Editor
The Neuro Editor software unlocks the full potential of the Source Audio Collider, allowing for deep customization of each preset. Within the editor, you’ll find dedicated sections for both the Delay and Reverb engines. Each engine offers a wide range of parameters, including time, feedback, mix, and modulation.
You can visually map parameters to the pedal’s controls, creating unique and expressive effects; The software also allows for detailed control over routing, enabling serial, parallel, and split signal paths. Experiment with different combinations of the six delay and six reverb engines to craft truly original sounds.
Furthermore, the Neuro Editor supports drag-and-drop preset organization and the ability to import and export presets. Explore the Source Audio online community for shared presets and inspiration, expanding your sonic palette even further.
Saving and Loading Presets
The Source Audio Collider allows for extensive preset storage, both on the pedal itself and via the Neuro Editor software. To save a preset, first dial in your desired settings using the pedal’s interface or the Neuro Editor. Then, navigate to the preset save function – either by holding a preset button on the pedal or utilizing the ‘Save’ option within the software.
You can name your presets for easy recall and organization. The pedal stores multiple presets internally, accessible via the footswitch or preset buttons. The Neuro Editor provides a visual library of your saved presets, allowing for easy browsing, duplication, and editing.
Presets can also be backed up to your computer using the Neuro Editor, safeguarding your creations. Loading a preset is just as straightforward – select it from the pedal or software, and the Collider instantly recalls your customized settings.
MIDI Control and Implementation
The Source Audio Collider boasts comprehensive MIDI control, expanding its versatility in live performance and studio environments. Through a standard 5-pin MIDI connection, you can control a vast array of parameters, including preset selection, effect bypass, and individual engine adjustments.
MIDI Control Change (CC) messages can be assigned to virtually any knob or switch on the Collider, allowing for external control from MIDI controllers, sequencers, or DAWs. The Neuro Editor software facilitates easy MIDI mapping, providing a visual interface to assign CC numbers to specific parameters.
The Collider also responds to MIDI Program Change messages for instant preset switching. Detailed MIDI implementation charts are available in the manual and within the Neuro Editor, outlining all supported MIDI messages and their corresponding functions. This allows for seamless integration into complex MIDI setups, unlocking advanced control possibilities.
External Switch Control Options
The Source Audio Collider offers flexible external switch control, enhancing live performance capabilities. Beyond the onboard footswitches, the pedal features two dedicated expression pedal/switch inputs, allowing for hands-free control of various functions.
These inputs can be configured via the Neuro Editor to control parameters like delay tap tempo, reverb mix, or even switch between entire presets. Standard TRS expression pedals are supported, providing continuous control over assigned parameters. Alternatively, latching or momentary footswitches can be connected for instant on/off control of effects or preset changes.
The Neuro Editor provides detailed options for customizing switch behavior, including polarity selection and trigger modes. This allows users to tailor the external switch control to their specific performance needs. A quick reference guide details all available switch options for immediate use.
Understanding Input and Output Connections
The Source Audio Collider is designed for both mono and stereo operation, offering versatile connectivity options. The pedal features two ¼-inch input jacks (Left/Mono and Right) and two ¼-inch output jacks (Left and Right). For mono operation, connect your instrument to the Left/Mono input and run a cable from the Left output to your amplifier.
To utilize the Collider’s stereo capabilities, connect your instrument to both the Left/Mono and Right inputs, and connect both the Left and Right outputs to separate amplifier channels or a stereo-capable amplifier. This creates a wider, more immersive soundscape.
Proper cable connections are crucial for optimal performance. Ensure all cables are securely plugged in to avoid signal loss or unwanted noise. The pedal is designed to work with standard instrument cables. Experiment with stereo panning within the effects to fully realize the Collider’s sonic potential.
Stereo vs. Mono Operation
The Source Audio Collider truly shines with its stereo capabilities, but performs admirably in mono as well. Mono operation is simple: plug your instrument into the Left/Mono input and connect the Left output to your amplifier. This provides a standard, focused sound.
However, unlocking the full potential of the Collider requires stereo setup. Utilize both the Left/Mono and Right inputs, connecting each to a separate signal source or a stereo instrument. Then, connect the Left and Right outputs to a stereo amplifier or two separate amplifiers.
Stereo operation allows for expansive soundscapes, panning effects, and a richer, more immersive experience. Experiment with different delay and reverb engine combinations in stereo to discover unique sonic textures. The Collider’s twin-processor architecture is optimized for stereo performance, delivering a wide and dynamic soundstage.
Firmware Updates and Maintenance
Maintaining your Source Audio Collider with the latest firmware is crucial for optimal performance and access to new features. Regularly check the Source Audio website (www.sourceaudio.net) for available updates. Firmware updates are typically delivered via the Neuro Editor software.
To update, connect your Collider to a computer running the Neuro Editor. The software will automatically detect if a new firmware version is available. Follow the on-screen instructions carefully during the update process – do not disconnect the pedal during the update!
Beyond firmware, basic maintenance includes keeping the pedal clean and free from dust. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the enclosure. Avoid using harsh chemicals or liquids. Periodically check the input and output jacks for debris. Proper care ensures the longevity and reliable operation of your Collider.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Experiencing issues with your Source Audio Collider? Here’s a guide to common problems and solutions. If the pedal isn’t powering on, verify the power supply is securely connected and functioning correctly. Check the DC jack for any damage. No sound? Ensure your guitar and amplifier are properly connected, and the Collider’s volume controls are turned up.
Unexpected noises or glitches can often be resolved by cycling power – disconnect and reconnect the power supply. If the Neuro Editor isn’t recognizing the pedal, ensure the USB cable is securely connected and that the Collider is in USB mode. For MIDI issues, double-check your MIDI connections and settings.
If problems persist, consult the Source Audio support website (www.sourceaudio.net) for FAQs and additional troubleshooting resources. A factory reset (see dedicated section) can resolve software-related issues, but will erase all custom presets.
Factory Reset Procedure
Need to restore your Source Audio Collider to its original factory settings? This procedure will erase all custom presets, returning the pedal to its out-of-the-box configuration. Begin by ensuring the Collider is powered on. Simultaneously press and hold both the Delay/Tap and Reverb footswitches.
Continue holding both footswitches while powering on the pedal. Keep holding until the display begins to flash rapidly. This indicates the reset process has initiated. Release the footswitches. The Collider will then reboot, and upon completion, it will display the factory preset bank.
Important Note: This process is irreversible. Back up any valuable custom presets to the Neuro Editor before performing a factory reset. If the reset fails to complete, repeat the process, ensuring a firm hold on both footswitches during power-up. Consult Source Audio support if issues persist.
Technical Specifications
Here’s a detailed overview of the Source Audio Collider’s technical capabilities: The pedal boasts a 96kHz sample rate and 24-bit A/D/A converters, ensuring high-fidelity audio processing. It features a frequency response of 20Hz – 20kHz, delivering a full spectrum of sound; Input impedance is 1MΩ, and output impedance is 100Ω.
The Collider operates on 9V DC, center-negative, with a current draw of 250mA. Signal-to-noise ratio exceeds 90dB, minimizing unwanted noise. Dimensions are 4.7” x 2.6” x 1.1”, and it weighs approximately 0.7lbs. The pedal supports stereo input and output via standard ¼” jacks.
Connectivity includes MIDI input and USB for Neuro Editor integration. Firmware updates are delivered via the Neuro Editor software. The robust metal chassis ensures durability for stage and studio use; Power supply is included. Explore the vast sonic landscape with these impressive specifications!
Sonic Exploration and Creative Applications
The Source Audio Collider unlocks a universe of sonic possibilities, moving beyond traditional delay and reverb. Experiment with layering multiple delay and reverb engines simultaneously, crafting complex textures and evolving soundscapes. Utilize the twin-processor architecture to run different effects in series or parallel, expanding creative control.
Explore ambient textures, rhythmic delays, and ethereal reverbs. The Collider excels in creating unique pads, shimmering soundscapes, and glitchy effects. Integrate it seamlessly into your signal chain for subtle enhancements or dramatic transformations. Dive into the Neuro Editor to design custom presets tailored to your specific musical needs.
Perfect for guitar, bass, vocals, and synthesizers, the Collider inspires experimentation. Create evolving drones, spacious atmospheres, and dynamic rhythmic effects. Push boundaries and discover sounds previously unimaginable – the only limit is your imagination!
