IK Multimedia X-VIBE AmpliTube User Manual

AmpliTube
X-VIBE
USER MANUAL

Front Panel Overview

1. MODEL encoder
   Turn the MODEL encoder to select the preferred X-VIBE model among the 16 advanced algorithms available. Push to go back when browsing menus.

2. PRESET encoder
   Turn the PRESET encoder to browse among the 300 preset slots available in the machine. Push to save a preset and choose its name and bank position.

3. PARAMETER encoder
   Each model inside X-VIBE has its own parameter set.
   Push the PARAMETER encoder to access the additional parameters of the selected model. The last edited parameter is always available by pressing or rotating the parameter encoder.
   Hold the PARAMETER encoder to access the global and preset setups.

4. SPEED knob
   The SPEED knob sets the speed of the modulation. When the BPM SYNC is activated the SPEED parameter allows you to select the available Time Signatures.

5. DEPTH knob
   The DEPTH knob controls the depth of the modulation.

6. BASS knob
   Boosts and cuts the low frequencies.

7. MID knob
   Boosts and cuts the mid frequencies.

8. TREBLE knob
   Boosts and cuts the high frequencies.

9. A & B LEDs
   Green if preset is active.
   Amber if preset has been edited.
   Blinking amber when browsing among banks.
   Off if bypassed.

10. TAP LED
    Blinking blue indicating LFO speed.
    Blinking green indicating the current BPM.
    Blinking amber means that the tempo is controlled by the MIDI clock.

11. A, B & TAP footswitches
    Press A or B to engage or bypass preset of the current bank.
    Hold A or B while preset is ON to access the X-MODE for selected model.
    Hold A or B while preset is OFF to activate that preset temporary while the footswitch is held down.
    Press A+B to select a lower bank.
    Press B+TAP to select a higher bank.
    Press TAP to tap the tempo of the modulation.

Rear Panel Overview

1. INPUT L & R
   Plug your instrument in here.
   If you have a mono instrument use only the left input.

2. OUTPUT L & R
   Connect to an amplifier, stomp box, PA or other devices. If you use X-VIBE with mono output use only the left output.

3. MIDI IN
   Connect to external MIDI controllers to automatically browse presets and modulate parameters via control changes.

4. MIDI OUT
   Connect to external MIDI devices.
   Through this port X-VIBE can send out MIDI messages anytime a switch is pressed or a knob is turned.

5. EXT. CONTROL
   Hook up an external expression or single switch pedal to control any combinations of parameters with a single action.
   Hook up a double switch pedal to easily move among banks or presets.

6. USB
   Use this port to connect X-VIBE to your Mac/PC as an audio interface and for using the Librarian app to organize and load presets. It can also be used to send or receive MIDI signals.

7. POWER 9V DC
   Power the pedal via a 9V DC center negative power supply. At least 260mA.

Firmware update

Before doing anything with your X-GEAR pedal it’s highly recommended to hook it up to the X-GEAR Librarian and check if any firmware update is available to make sure  you are running the most updated and stable firmware available.
To do so:

1. Install the X-GEAR librarian on your computer following the instructions found in the box.
2. Connect your pedal to your computer using the provided USB cable.
3. Launch the X-GEAR librarian and select the connected pedal.
4. Click the top right gear icon and click “Check for updates.”
5. If the librarian or the X-GEAR need to be updated, you’ll be asked to do so and by clicking “Update” you’ll start the updating process.
   After updating you can start using your X-GEAR pedal.

Saving presets

To quickly save a preset, hold down the PRESET encoder until the display shows SAVED.
The preset will be saved with the same name in the same location.
To change name or location when saving a preset:

1. Press the PRESET encoder to enter the saving process.

2. The first letter of the preset’s name starts blinking indicating the cursor’s position.

3. Rename the preset:
   a. Turn the PRESET encoder to select a character.
   b. Turn the MODEL encoder to change the cursor’s position.

4. Push the PRESET encoder to confirm the name.

5. The display shows a location (bank-number and slot).

6. Rotate the PRESET encoder to select the desired location.

7. Push the PRESET encoder to select the location an save the preset with the chosen name in the chosen location.

N.B. When choosing a different location saving a preset will overwrite the preset that was previously stored in that location and the new one gets copied over it.

External Control Setup

The EXT. CONTROL jack can be connected to various types of external pedals:

• Expression pedal
• Single switch
• Double switch

Expression pedal & single switch (creating macros)
An expression pedal and a single switch pedal can be assigned to a parameter or to various parameters to create macros. A macro is an ensemble of parameters, which can be  modulated simultaneously via the external control.

To setup a macro on the selected preset using an expression pedal or a single switch pedal, do as follows:

1. Hook it up to the EXT. CONTROL.

2. Hold the PARAMETER encoder and choose GLOBAL SETUP.

3. Select EXT. CTRL and choose one of the following:
   a. TRS EXP PEDAL: if you are using a TRS type expression pedal.
   b. RTS EXP PEDAL: if you are using a RTS type expression pedal.
   c. N.O. SWITCH: if you are using a normally open single switch pedal.
   d. N.C. SWITCH: if you are using a normally close single switch pedal.

4. Press the MODEL knob to go back and choose PRESET SETUP.

5. In the PRESET SETUP menu, select ON from the EXT. CTRL option.

6. Come back to the PRESET SETUP menu, select EXT. LEARN and choose LEARN.

7. While LEARN A is being displayed, position the parameters of the preset as you wish they would be when the external control is in position A, then press the PRESET encoder when the A setup is done.

8. While LEARN B is being displayed, position the parameters of the preset as you wish they would be when the external control is in position B, then press the PRESET encoder when the B setup is done.

9. Once the SAVE button (PRESET encoder) is pressed, the pedal returns to its default behavior and the macro is assigned to the external control.

N.B.
In a single switch pedal position A refers to the off status. In an expression pedal position A refers to the heel status.
In a single switch pedal position B refers to the on status. In an expression pedal position B refers to the tip status.
The only difference between a single switch or an expression pedal is that with the first one changing from position A to position B is an instant transition (pressing the  footswitch), while the second one is a smooth transition (moving the expression pedal).

Double switch
Connect a double switch pedal to browse among presets or banks more easily.
To setup a double switch pedal do as follows:

1. Hook it up to the EXT. CONTROL.
2. Hold the PARAMETER encoder and choose GLOBAL SETUP.
3. Select EXT. CTRL and choose N.O. DUAL SWITCH, if your double switch pedal is normally open or N.C. DUAL SWITCH, if your double switch pedal is normally closed.
4. In the GLOBAL SETUP browse to DUAL SWITCH MODE and choose BANK, if you want to use your double switch pedal to move among banks or PRESET, if you want it to move among presets.

Expression pedal calibration

If you feel that your expression pedal doesn’t work as expected, you may need to calibrate it to get its full functionality.
To calibrate an expression pedal do as follows:

1. Hook it up to the EXT. CONTROL in the rear panel.
2. Hold the PARAMETER encoder and choose GLOBAL SETUP.
3. In the GLOBAL SETUP select EXP. CALIBRATION.
4. While HEEL is being displayed move your expression pedal to its heel position then press the PARAMETER encoder to confirm.
5. While TIP is being displayed move your expression pedal to its tip position then press the PARAMETER encoder to confirm.
6. When the display shows DONE, the calibration is set.

Modulation Models

CHORUS 80
This model is inspired by the different attempted versions that came out in the ‘80s to recreate complex stereo chorus effects. This gives you the wideness and magic of the ‘80s rock sound.

Parameters

• SPEED: sets the rate of the chorus effect. When the BPM SYNC is activated the SPEED parameter allows you to select the available Time Signatures. From 0% to 100% or from 1/32 to 1/1T when BPM SYNC is ON.
• DEPTH: sets the intensity of the chorus effect. From 0% to 100%.
• BASS: boosts and cuts the low frequencies. From -6 dB to + 6 dB.
• MID: boosts and cuts the mid frequencies. From -6 dB to + 6 dB.
• TREBLE: boosts and cuts the high frequencies. From -6 dB to + 6 dB.
• MID Q: sets the bandwidth of the mid parametric EQ, from narrow to wide. From 0.2 to 3.
• MID FREQ : changes the center frequency of the mid parametric EQ. From 80 Hz to 5000 Hz.
• MIX: regulates the amount of the dry and wet modulated signal. By default the mix is set to 100% WET. From 0% to 100%.
• X-MODE: the X-MODE sets the Chorus to a deeper modulation with a higher rate for a temporary extreme effect. ON or OFF.

CHORUS 80 Control Changes

When a parameter range is not linear its values are equally divided among the 128 steps of a Control Change value.

CHORUS 1
Based on Solina String Ensemble Keyboard Chorus effect
This vintage chorus is inspired by the widening chorus effect found in the Solina String Ensemble Keyboard that can fit perfectly also in guitar tones.

Parameters

• SPEED: sets the rate of the chorus effect.
  From 0% to 100%.

• DEPTH: sets the intensity of the chorus effect.
  From 0% to 100%.

• BASS: boosts and cuts the low frequencies.
  From -6 dB to + 6 dB.

• MID: boosts and cuts the mid frequencies.
  From -6 dB to + 6 dB.

• TREBLE : boosts and cuts the high frequencies.
  From -6 dB to + 6 dB.

• MID Q : sets the bandwidth of the mid parametric EQ, from narrow to wide.
  From 0.2 to 3.

• MID FREQ : changes the center frequency of the mid parametric EQ.
  From 80 Hz to 5000 Hz.

• MIX: regulates the amount of the dry and wet modulated signal. By default the mix is set to 100% WET.
  From 0% to 100%.

• X-MODE: the X-MODE sets the Chorus to a deeper modulation with a higher rate for a temporary extreme effect.
  ON or OFF.

CHORUS 1 Control Changes

When a parameter range is not linear its values are equally divided among the 128 steps of a Control Change value.

CHORUS X
Based on Roland RS Series
This is a very versatile model based on the chorus effect of the RS series of synthesizers by Roland that also became one of the preferred choruses for guitarists all over the world.

Parameters

• SPEED: sets the rate of the chorus effect.
  From 0% to 100%.

• DEPTH: sets the intensity of the chorus effect.
  From 0% to 100%.

• BASS: boosts and cuts the low frequencies.
  From -6 dB to + 6 dB.

• MID: boosts and cuts the mid frequencies.
  From -6 dB to + 6 dB.

• TREBLE: boosts and cuts the high frequencies.
  From -6 dB to + 6 dB.

• MID Q: sets the bandwidth of the mid parametric EQ, from narrow to wide.
  From 0.2 to 3.

• MID FREQ : changes the center frequency of the mid parametric EQ.
  From 80 Hz to 5000 Hz.

• MIX: regulates the amount of the dry and wet modulated signal. By default the mix is set to 100% WET.
  From 0% to 100%.

• X-MODE: the X-MODE sets the Chorus to a deeper modulation with a higher rate for a temporary extreme effect.
  ON or OFF.

CHORUS X Control Changes

When a parameter range is not linear its values are equally divided among the 128 steps of a Control Change value.

60 VIBE
Based on Univox™ Uni-Vibe™
This model offers two working modes: chorus and vibrato. Its legendary chorus mode is a chorus/rotatingspeaker simulator that was introduced in 1969. This created a swirling effect quite similar to a rotary speaker cabinet, but with the addition of a continuous speed control.

Parameters

• SPEED: sets the rate of the effect. When the BPM SYNC is activated the SPEED parameter allows you to select the available Time Signatures.
  From 0% to 100% or from 1/32 to 1/1T when BPM SYNC is ON.

• DEPTH: sets the intensity of the effect.
  From 0% to 100%.

• BASS: boosts and cuts the low frequencies.
  From -6 dB to + 6 dB.

• MID: boosts and cuts the mid frequencies.
  From -6 dB to + 6 dB.

• TREBLE: boosts and cuts the high frequencies.
  From -6 dB to + 6 dB.

• MODE: selects between the Chorus or Vibrato mode.
  CHORUS or VIBRATO.

• MID Q: s ets the bandwidth of the mid parametric EQ, from narrow to wide.
  From 0.2 to 3.

• MID FREQ: changes the center frequency of the mid parametric EQ.
  From 80 Hz to 5000 Hz.

• MIX: regulates the amount of the dry and wet modulated signal. By default the mix is set to 100% WET.
  From 0% to 100%.

• X-MODE : the X-MODE sets the effect to a deeper modulation with a higher rate for a temporary extreme effect.
  ON or OFF.

60 VIBE Control Changes

When a parameter range is not linear its values are equally divided among the 128 steps of a Control Change value.

PHAZER 9
Based on MXR® Phase 90
This effect is one of the most popular phase pedals of all times. Used by a wide range of first-class guitarists, this unit can add a little bit of shimmer to your solos or generate smooth, watery effect while playing chords and muted strumming.

Parameters

• SPEED: sets the rate of the phaser effect. When the BPM SYNC is activated the SPEED parameter allows you to select the available Time Signatures.
  From 0% to 100% or from 1/32 to 1/1T when BPM SYNC is ON.

• DEPTH: sets the intensity of the phaser effect.
  From 0% to 100%.

• BASS: boosts and cuts the low frequencies.
  From -6 dB to + 6 dB.

• MID: boosts and cuts the mid frequencies.
  From -6 dB to + 6 dB.

• TREBLE: boosts and cuts the high frequencies.
  From -6 dB to + 6 dB.

• MID Q: sets the bandwidth of the mid parametric EQ, from narrow to wide.
  From 0.2 to 3.

• MID FREQ: changes the center frequency of the mid parametric EQ.
  From 80 Hz to 5000 Hz.

• MIX: regulates the amount of the dry and wet modulated signal. By default the mix is set to 100% WET.
  From 0% to 100%.

• X-MODE : the X-MODE sets the phaser to a deeper modulation with a higher rate for a temporary extreme effect.
  ON or OFF.

PHAZER 9 Control Changes

When a parameter range is not linear its values are equally divided among the 128 steps of a Control Change value.

PHAZER 10
Based on MXR® Phaser 100
A model of a classic analog phaser that offers 4 different modes characterized by their different intensity and shape.

Parameters

• SPEED: sets the rate of the phaser effect. When the BPM SYNC is activated the SPEED parameter allows
  you to select the available Time Signatures.
  From 0% to 100% or from 1/32 to 1/1T when BPM SYNC is ON.

• DEPTH: sets the intensity of the effect.
  From 0% to 100%.

• BASS: boosts and cuts the low frequencies.
  From -6 dB to + 6 dB.

• MID: boosts and cuts the mid frequencies.
  From -6 dB to + 6 dB.

• TREBLE: boosts and cuts the high frequencies.
  From -6 dB to + 6 dB.

• MODE: selects one of the four different phaser modes.
  From 1 to 4.

• MID Q: sets the bandwidth of the mid parametric EQ, from narrow to wide.
  From 0.2 to 3.

• MID FREQ : changes the center frequency of the mid parametric EQ.
  From 80 Hz to 5000 Hz.

• MIX: regulates the amount of the dry and wet modulated signal. By default the mix is set to 100% WET.
  From 0% to 100%.

• X-MODE: the X-MODE sets the phaser to a deeper modulation with a higher rate for a temporary extreme effect.
  ON or OFF.

PHAZER 10 Control Changes

When a parameter range is not linear its values are equally divided among the 128 steps of a Control Change value.

PHAZER CL
This model is inspired by one of the most iconic and classic analog phase shift effects heard throughout the 1970s.
Parameters

• SPEED: sets the rate of the phaser effect. When the BPM SYNC is activated the SPEED parameter allows you to select the available Time Signatures.
  From 0% to 100% or from 1/32 to 1/1T when BPM SYNC is ON.

• DEPTH: sets the intensity of the effect.
  From 0% to 100%.

• BASS: boosts and cuts the low frequencies.
  From -6 dB to + 6 dB.

• MID: boosts and cuts the mid frequencies.
  From -6 dB to + 6 dB.

• TREBLE: boosts and cuts the high frequencies.
  From -6 dB to + 6 dB.

• COLOR: adjusts which frequencies are affected by the phasing action.
  From -10 to +10.

• MID Q: sets the bandwidth of the mid parametric EQ, from narrow to wide.
  From 0.2 to 3.

• MID FREQ : changes the center frequency of the mid parametric EQ.
  From 80 Hz to 5000 Hz.

• MIX: regulates the amount of the dry and wet modulated signal. By default the mix is set to 100% WET.
  From 0% to 100%.

• X-MODE: the X-MODE engages a higher depth and adds a resonant effect to the modulation
  ON or OFF.

PHAZER CL Control Changes

When a parameter range is not linear its values are equally divided among the 128 steps of a Control Change value.

FOX
Based on fOXX® Foot Phaser
An early vintage phaser with a unique and distinctive sound. In addition to the standard controls for a phaser, it offers a feedback parameter that lets you change the sound from a smooth phazy to an edgy modulated effect.

Parameters

• SPEED: select between 4 fixed speeds.
  From 1 to 4.

• DEPTH: sets the intensity of the phaser effect.
  From 0% to 100%.

• BASS: boosts and cuts the low frequencies.
  From -6 dB to + 6 dB.

• MID: boosts and cuts the mid frequencies.
  From -6 dB to + 6 dB.

• TREBLE: boosts and cuts the high frequencies.
  From -6 dB to + 6 dB.

• FEEDBACK: Controls the feedback of the phaser effect.
  From 0% to 100%.

• MID Q: sets the bandwidth of the mid parametric EQ, from narrow to wide.
  From 0.2 to 3.

• MID FREQ: changes the center frequency of the mid parametric EQ.
  From 80 Hz to 5000 Hz.

• MIX: regulates the amount of the dry and wet modulated signal. By default the mix is set to 100% WET.
  From 0% to 100%.

• X-MODE: the X-MODE engages a higher depth and adds a resonant effect to the modulation.
  ON or OFF.

FOX Control Changes

When a parameter range is not linear its values are equally divided among the 128 steps of a Control Change value.

STONE
Based on Electro-Harmonix® Small Stone
This effect is a model of a classic analog phase shifter, capable of a range of phaser effects from gentle to outlandish swirling effects. You may wonder why it is called “small” when you hear it.

Parameters

• SPEED: sets the rate of the phaser effect. When the BPM SYNC is activated the SPEED parameter allows you to select the available Time Signatures.
  From 0% to 100% or from 1/32 to 1/1T when BPM SYNC is ON.

• DEPTH: selects SOFT or HARD intensity.
  SOFT and HARD.

• BASS: boosts and cuts the low frequencies.
  From -6 dB to + 6 dB.

• MID: boosts and cuts the mid frequencies.
  From -6 dB to + 6 dB.

• TREBLE: boosts and cuts the high frequencies.
  From -6 dB to + 6 dB.

• MID Q : sets the bandwidth of the mid parametric EQ, from narrow to wide.
  From 0.2 to 3.

• MID FREQ: changes the center frequency of the mid parametric EQ.
  From 80 Hz to 5000 Hz.

• MIX: regulates the amount of the dry and wet modulated signal. By default the mix is set to 100% WET.
  From 0% to 100%.

• X-MODE: the X-MODE sets the phaser to a deeper modulation with a higher rate for a temporary extreme effect.
  ON or OFF.

STONE Control Changes

When a parameter range is not linear its values are equally divided among the 128 steps of a Control Change value.

ELECTRIC
Based on Electro-Harmonix® Electric Mistress
This stomp box is a model of a vintage flanger/filter matrix used by many well-known guitarists to achieve classic sounds. While it has amazing warmth, it is also capable of  very versatile chorus and ring modulation type sounds.
Parameters

• SPEED: sets the rate of the flanger effect. When the BPM SYNC is activated the SPEED parameter allows you to select the available Time Signatures.
  From 0% to 100% or from 1/32 to 1/1T when BPM SYNC is ON.

• DEPTH: sets the intensity of the flanger effect.
  From 0% to 100%.

• BASS: boosts and cuts the low frequencies.
  From -6 dB to + 6 dB.

• MID: boosts and cuts the mid frequencies.
  From -6 dB to + 6 dB.

• TREBLE : boosts and cuts the high frequencies.
  From -6 dB to + 6 dB.

• COLOR: adjusts which frequencies are affected by the flanger.
  From 0 to 20.

• MID Q : sets the bandwidth of the mid parametric EQ, from narrow to wide.
  From 0.2 to 3.

• MID FREQ : changes the center frequency of the mid parametric EQ.
  From 80 Hz to 5000 Hz.

• MIX: regulates the amount of the dry and wet modulated signal. By default the mix is set to 100% WET.
  From 0% to 100%.

• X-MODE: the X-MODE sets the flanger to modulate the high-frequency range for a temporary extreme effect.
  ON or OFF.

ELECTRIC Control Changes

When a parameter range is not linear its values are equally divided among the 128 steps of a Control Change value.

DOUBLER
Based on the doubler mode of the MXR® Flanger Doubler
Primarily used to thicken in the overall tone of the instrument. Very popular in ‘90s power metal.
Parameters

• SPEED: sets the rate of the effect.
  From 0% to 100%.

• DEPTH: sets the intensity of the effect.
  From 0% to 100%.

• BASS: boosts and cuts the low frequencies.
  From -6 dB to + 6 dB.

• MID: boosts and cuts the mid frequencies.
  From -6 dB to + 6 dB.

• TREBLE: boosts and cuts the high frequencies.
  From -6 dB to + 6 dB.

• MID Q: sets the bandwidth of the mid parametric EQ, from narrow to wide.
  From 0.2 to 3.

• MID FREQ : changes the center frequency of the mid parametric EQ.
  From 80 Hz to 5000 Hz.

• MIX: regulates the amount of the dry and wet modulated signal. By default the mix is set to 100% WET.
  From 0% to 100%.

• X-MODE : the X-MODE engages a higher depth and adds a crazy dizziness effect to the modulation.
  ON or OFF.
  DOUBLER Control Changes

When a parameter range is not linear its values are equally divided among the 128 steps of a Control Change value.

METALLIC
Based on MXR® Flanger 117
A classic flanger reminiscent of the ‘80s flavor. Still, no flanger is more recognizable, making this perfect for hardrock and psychedelic clean tones.
Parameters

• SPEED: sets the rate of the flanger effect. When the BPM SYNC is activated the SPEED parameter allows you to select the available Time Signatures.
  From 0% to 100% or from 1/32 to 1/1T when BPM SYNC is ON.

• DEPTH: sets the intensity of the flanger effect.
  From 0% to 100%.

• BASS: boosts and cuts the low frequencies.
  From -6 dB to + 6 dB.

• MID: boosts and cuts the mid frequencies.
  From -6 dB to + 6 dB.

• TREBLE: boosts and cuts the high frequencies.
  From -6 dB to + 6 dB.

• REGEN: sets the amount of feedback happening inside the flanger.
  From 0% to 100%.

• MANUAL: sets the timbre of the flanging effect.
  From 0 to 10.

• MID Q : sets the bandwidth of the mid parametric EQ, from narrow to wide.
  From 0.2 to 3.

• MID FREQ: changes the center frequency of the mid parametric EQ.
  From 80 Hz to 5000 Hz.

• MIX: regulates the amount of the dry and wet modulated signal. By default the mix is set to 100% WET.
  From 0% to 100%.

• X-MODE: the X-MODE engages a higher depth and adds a resonant effect to the modulation.
  ON or OFF.

METALLIC Control Changes

When a parameter range is not linear its values are equally divided among the 128 steps of a Control Change value.

ROTARY

This effect is a model of a rotary speaker cabinet. Rotary speaker cabinets create a lush vibrato/chorus effect that adds vibe and a tremendous third dimension to the sound.
Parameters

• SPEED: sets the rate of the effect. When the BPM SYNC is activated the SPEED parameter allows you to select the available Time Signatures.
  From 0% to 100% or from 1/32 to 1/1T when BPM SYNC is ON.

• DEPTH: sets the intensity of the effect.
  From 0% to 100%.

• BASS: boosts and cuts the low frequencies.
  From -6 dB to + 6 dB.

• MID: boosts and cuts the mid frequencies.
  From -6 dB to + 6 dB.

• TREBLE: boosts and cuts the high frequencies.
  From -6 dB to + 6 dB.

• COLOR: sets the Balance between Drum and Horn.
  From -10 to +10.

• DRIVE: sets the amount of saturation in the effect.
  From 0% to 100%.

• MID Q: sets the bandwidth of the mid parametric EQ, from narrow to wide.
  From 0.2 to 3.

• MID FREQ: changes the center frequency of the mid parametric EQ.
  From 80 Hz to 5000 Hz.

• MIX: regulates the amount of the dry and wet modulated signal. By default the mix is set to 100% WET.
  From 0% to 100%.

• X-MODE: the X-MODE engages the maximum speed and adds Drive to the response.
  ON or OFF.

ROTARY Control Changes

When a parameter range is not linear its values are equally divided among the 128 steps of a Control Change value.

TREMOLO

A fully customizable tremolo effect that offers controls over the envelope and wave shape of the modulation allowing you to set it from a smooth swell flavor to a percussive effect.
Parameters
• SPEED: sets the rate of the tremolo. When the BPM SYNC is activated the SPEED parameter allows you to select the available Time Signatures.
From 0% to 100% or from 1/32 to 1/1T when BPM SYNC is ON.
• DEPTH: sets the intensity of the tremolo.
From 0% to 100%.
• BASS: boosts and cuts the low frequencies.
From -6 dB to + 6 dB.
• MID: boosts and cuts the mid frequencies.
From -6 dB to + 6 dB.
• TREBLE: boosts and cuts the high frequencies.
From -6 dB to + 6 dB.
• ENVELOPE: varies the tremolo rise and fall time (how fast or slow the volume increases and decreases) for unique percussion, “reverse decay” effects and everything in between.
From 0 to 10.
• WAVE: sets the wave form of the tremolo from a smooth sine wave (like vintage amps) to a choppier triangular wave to an abrupt “on/off” pulsing square wave.
From 0 to 10.
• MID Q : sets the bandwidth of the mid parametric EQ, from narrow to wide.
From 0.2 to 3.
• MID FREQ: changes the center frequency of the mid parametric EQ.
From 80 Hz to 5000 Hz.
• MIX: regulates the amount of the dry and wet modulated signal. By default the mix is set to 100% WET.
From 0% to 100%.
• X-MODE : the X-MODE engages the maximum depth and harshness.
ON or OFF.

TREMOLO Control Changes

When a parameter range is not linear its values are equally divided among the 128 steps of a Control Change value.

STEP SLICER

Add programmed rhythmic parts to your power chords and phrases with this powerful and creative beat synced slicing stomp effect. It can be setup to create anything from  the most amazing tremolos to the most complex rhythm effects that always stay in perfect sync with the beat.
If you need to sync the STEP SLICER to the first beat of a measure to get a specific sound, tap once the tap tempo footswitch.

Parameters

• SPEED: sets the speed of the stepper. When the BPM SYNC is activated the SPEED parameter allows you to select the available Time Signatures.
  From 0% to 100% or from 1/32 to 1/1T when BPM SYNC is ON.

• DEPTH: sets the steepness of the level change between steps. Set it at lower positions to get a smoother effect or set it to higher positions to get a more gate-like effect.
  From 0% to 100%.

• BASS: boosts and cuts the low frequencies.
  From -6 dB to + 6 dB.

• MID: boosts and cuts the mid frequencies.
  From -6 dB to + 6 dB.

• TREBLE: boosts and cuts the high frequencies.
  From -6 dB to + 6 dB.

• SWING: Increase this control to give to the steps a swing type quantization.
  From 0% to 100%.

• STEP 1-8: sets the level for each step.
  From 0% to 100%.

• PAN 1-8: sets the pan for each step.
  From -10 to +10.

• MID Q: sets the bandwidth of the mid parametric EQ, from narrow to wide.
  From 0.2 to 3.

• MID FREQ: changes the center frequency of the mid parametric EQ.
  From 80 Hz to 5000 Hz.

• MIX: regulates the amount of the dry and wet modulated signal. By default the mix is set to 100% WET.
  From 0% to 100%.

• X-MODE : the X-MODE engages the maximum speed.
  ON or OFF.

STEP SLICER Control Changes

When a parameter range is not linear its values are equally divided among the 128 steps of a Control Change value.

STEP FILTER
A powerful and deep beat-synced filter stomp effect. You can apply Low / High and Band pass analog modeled filtering on freely customizable patterns to add groove and  rhythmic pulsing to your parts. This will make your guitar and bass parts sound like a rhythmic synth, if you want it!
If you need to sync the STEP FILTER to the first beat of a measure to get a specific sound, tap once the tap tempo footswitch.

Parameters

• SPEED: sets the speed of the stepper. When the BPM SYNC is activated the SPEED parameter allows you to select the available Time Signatures.
  From 0% to 100% or from 1/32 to 1/1T when BPM SYNC is ON.

• DEPTH: sets how deep the filter is modulated by the steps.
  From 0% to 100%.

• BASS: boosts and cuts the low frequencies.
  From -6 dB to + 6 dB.

• MID: boosts and cuts the mid frequencies.
  From -6 dB to + 6 dB.

• TR E BLE: boosts and cuts the high frequencies.
  From -6 dB to + 6 dB.

• MODE: sets which kind of filter will be used: high pass, band pass or low pass.
  LOW, HIGH, BAND.

• CUTOFF: sets the center cut-off frequency of the filter. This is the cut-off frequency the filter will have when the steps are set to half position.
  From 40 Hz to 20000 Hz.

• RES: sets the center resonance of the filter. This is the resonance amount the filter will have when the steps are set to half position.
  From 0 to 10.

• SWING: increase this control to give to the steps a swing type quantization.
  From 0% to 100%.

• DEST: sets what is modulated by the steps between filter cut-off and/or filter resonance. At full minimum position only cut-off frequency is modulated, at max position only resonance is modulated.
  From 0 to 10.

• STEP 1-8: sets the amount of modulation for each step.
  From 0% to 100%.

• MID Q: sets the bandwidth of the mid parametric EQ, from narrow to wide.
  From 0.2 to 3.

• MID FREQ : changes the center frequency of the mid parametric EQ.
  From 80 Hz to 5000 Hz.

• MIX: regulates the amount of the dry and wet modulated signal. By default the mix is set to 100% WET.
  From 0% to 100%.

• X-MODE: engages a higher depth and adds a resonant effect to the modulation.
  ON or OFF.

STEP FILTER Control Changes

When a parameter range is not linear its values are equally divided among the 128 steps of a Control Change value.

Global Setup

The global setup menu features different settings to manage the global behavior of the pedal independent of which preset is active.
To access the Global Setup menu, hold down the PARAMETER encoder and select GLOBAL SETUP.
NAME MODE
Changes the way preset names are displayed:

• NAME: the display shows only the preset’s name.
• PC+NAME : the display shows the program change number followed by its name.
• BNK+NAME: t he display shows the currently selected preset bank followed by its name.

EXT. CTRL
Selects which type of external controller pedal is attached to the EXT. CONTROL jack.

• TRS EXP PEDAL : select this if the pedal connected to the EXT. CONTROL jack is a TRS type expression pedal.
• RTS EXP PEDAL: select this if the pedal connected to the EXT. CONTROL jack is a RTS type expression pedal.
• N.O. SWITCH : select this if the pedal connected to the EXT. CONTROL jack is a normally open single footswitch pedal.
• N.C. SWITCH: select this if the pedal connected to the EXT. CONTROL jack is a normally close single footswitch pedal.
• N.O. DUAL SWITCH: select this if the pedal connected to the EXT. CONTROL jack is a normally open double footswitch pedal.
• N.C. DUAL SWITCH: select this if the pedal connected to the EXT. CONTROL jack is a normally close double footswitch pedal.

DUAL SWITCH MODE
Selects the operative mode for the double switch pedal connected to the EXT. CONTROL jack.

• BANK: select this if you want to use the connected double switch pedal to browse among banks.
• PRESET: select this if you want to use the connected double switch pedal to browse among presets.

EXP. CALIBRATION
Starts the calibration process for the connected expression pedal.
Refer to the expression pedal calibration paragraph to learn more about calibrating an expression pedal with
X-GEAR.

MIDI CHANNEL
Selects on which MIDI channel the X-GEAR pedal operates, from 1 to 16. By default X-GEAR pedals operate to channel 1.

MIDI THRU
Selects which MIDI signals are sent to the MIDI outputs (MIDI and USB ports).

• OFF: no MIDI signals are sent to the MIDI outputs.
• THRU: the MIDI signals arriving to the X-GEAR MIDI input are sent to the X-GEAR MIDI outputs.
• MERGE: the MIDI signals arriving to the X-GEAR MIDI input and the MIDI signals generated by the pedal are merged and sent to the X-GEAR MIDI outputs.

MAIN VOL
Controls the master volume of the pedal from -40 dB to +3 dB.
INTERFACE VOL
Controls the master volume when the pedal is set in interface mode from -40 dB to +3 dB.
By default, the volume is set to -20 dB.
GLOBAL BPM
Sets the BPM for all the presets with BPM MODE set to GLOBAL, from 55 to 260 BPM.
This global BPM is changed when:

• A tempo is tapped on a preset with BPM MODE set to GLOBAL.
• The MIDI CLOCK is coming from outside and sets this BPM.
• This menu voice is manually changed.

MIDI CLOCK
Sets the MIDI CLOCK function.

• OFF: no MIDI CLOCK function is active.
• DIN: the MIDI CLOCK is set by the incoming MIDI clock from the MIDI input.
• USB: the MIDI CLOCK is set by the incoming MIDI clock from the USB input.
• INTERNAL: the MIDI CLOCK is set by the pedal and sent out through both USB and MIDI outputs, the pedal acts as master.

N.B. When the MIDI CLOCK is coming from outside the TAP Tempo footswitch is disabled and is synced with the incoming tempo, its led becomes amber to get visual feedback of this status.

CAB SIM
Activates and selects the cabinet simulator.

• OFF: disables Cab Sim.
• CAB 1: activates the Cab Sim with the first cabinet IR.
• CAB 2: activates the Cab Sim with the second cabinet IR.
• CAB 3: activates the Cab Sim with the third cabinet IR.
• CAB 4: activates the Cab Sim with the fourth cabinet IR.
• BASS: activates the Cab Sim with the fifth cabinet IR.

N.B. If you also want the Cab Sim when the pedal is bypassed, the BUFFER BYPASS MODE is required.

USB OUT
Sets what signals are sent to the USB OUT.

• STEREO: the signals sent to the USB OUT are a copy of the Left & Right Outputs.
• DUAL: on USB OUT 1 is sent a copy of the Left & Right Outputs summed to mono, while on USB OUT 2 is sent the dry clean DI signal of the instrument (bypassing the pedal effect).

BYPASS MODE
Sets the bypass technology for the pedal.

• TRUE: selects the true bypass technology.
• BUFFER: selects the buffered bypass technology.

OPERATION MODE
Sets the operative mode of the pedal to be used for live gigs or as an audio interface.

• LIVE: in live mode, the audio signal is taken from the analog jack inputs, processed by the DSP and sent to all outputs.
• INTERFACE: in interface mode, the signal is taken from the analog jack inputs, processed, and then sent to the USB outputs to a computer.
  Then the signal coming out from the computer goes back into the pedal in its USB inputs and sent to the
  Left & Right outputs, which can be connected to a monitoring system.
  See the Interface Mode paragraph to learn more.

FACTORY RESET
After a confirmation this option resets the pedal to its factory status.
FW VERSION
Displays the currently installed firmware version.

Preset Setup

The preset setup menu features different settings to manage the selected preset.
To access the Preset Setup menu, hold down the PARAMETER encoder and select PRESET SETUP.

BPM MODE
BPM MODE is an option regarding the BPM SYNC mode, to use it BPM SYNC must be ON.

• GLOBAL: the preset BPM follows the GLOBAL BPM of the pedal. Tapping a tempo in this mode affects only the GLOBAL BPM of the pedal.
• PRESET: the BPM follows the preset BPM. Preset mode is useful if it is needed to keep a precise BPM for that particular kind of preset.

NOTE: TAP Tempo will always affect both GLOBAL and PRESET BPM.
BPM SYNC

• OFF: the time parameter is expressed in milliseconds and there is no relationship with the PRESET or GLOBAL BPM.
• ON: the time parameter is expressed in time signatures of the PRESET or GLOBAL BPM depending on the BPM MODE preference.

The TAP Tempo needs always to be tapped in quarter notes. If you want different Time Signatures use the SPEED knob.
BPM
Sets the Beats Per Minute for the current preset from 55 to 260 BPM. To use this BPM, BPM SYNC must be ON and BPM MODE must be set to PRESET.

EXT. CTRL
Sets if the preset is using the External Control or not.

• ON: enables the external control connected (single switch or expression pedal) for the selected preset.
• OFF: disables the external control connected (single switch or expression pedal) for the selected preset.
  This is to avoid that a connected external control could potentially modify the preset.

EXT. LEARN
Starts the process of assigning the external control pedal and creating macros. See the External Control Setup paragraph for more information.

Tempo, BPM Mode and tap tempo footswitch

BPM SYNC OFF
If the preset’s BPM SYNC is OFF the preset tempo is expressed in percentage and is set by the SPEED knob.
When BPM SYNC is OFF the tap LED blinks blue.
When BPM SYNC is OFF it can be easily reverted to BPM SYNC ON mode by tapping in a tempo with the TAP TEMPO footswitch.
BPM SYNC ON
If BPM SYNC is ON, the preset tempo is expressed in BPM and is linked to the tap tempo footswitch. The tempo can be set by tapping quarter notes with the tap tempo  footswitch and the SPEED knob lets you set the desired time signature for the repetitions.

The available time signatures are (D stands for Dotted and T stands for Triplets):

• 1/32
• 1/32D
• 1/32T
• 1/16
• 1/16D
• 1/16T
• 1/8
• 1/8D
• 1/8T
• 1/4
• 1/4D
• 1/4T
• 1/2
• 1/2D
• 1/2T
• 1/1
• 1/1D
• 1/1T

When BPM SYNC is ON the tap tempo LED blinks green.
There are some complex models that due to multiple LFOs or stepped SPEED parameters can’t have a defined relation with a BPM, so for these models the BPM SYNC  feature will be forced to OFF. These models are:
CHORUS 1, CHORUS X, FOX, DOUBLER.

BPM MODE
BPM MODE is an option when BPM SYNC is ON.
When BPM MODE is set to PRESET the tempo follows the preset’s BPM and is custom to each preset.
When BPM MODE is set to GLOBAL the tempo follows the global BPM and all presets with BPM MODE set to GLOBAL follow this BPM.
If you need to sync X-VIBE to the first beat of a measure to get a specific sound, tap once the tap tempo footswitch.

Safe Mode

SAFE MODE is very useful for playing live since it locks all the knobs to be sure that your sound does not change, if you accidentally move a knob or hit your pedal.
To activate and deactivate the SAFE MODE, press simultaneously the MODEL and PRESET encoders. A display confirmation (LOCKED and UNLOCKED) will confirm you that the mode has been activated/deactivated.

Temporary Mode
By holding down a preset’s footswitch while it’s off, the preset gets activated temporarily and is deactivated when the footswitch is released.
You can do this operation both when the pedal is bypassed to engage a certain effect only for a little time or while another preset is on.
If you do it while another preset is on, this mode will allow you to quickly change to the other preset by holding down its footswitch and coming back to the previous one once you release the footswitch.

Interface Mode

Using the interface mode of the pedal you can hook it up to your computer and a monitoring system to jam and playback music directly from X-GEAR.
You can activate the INTERFACE MODE from the GLOBAL SETUP.
Connect X-GEAR to your computer using the provided USB cable and use the left and right outputs to connect the pedal to a monitoring system such as a power amplifier,  active monitors, or a headphone preamplifier.
AmpliTube (or your DAW) sees the X-GEAR as a regular interface, and you can playback songs from the computer and jam  along using AmpliTube (or the DAW) to monitor your session.

To tweak the volume of the X-GEAR when used as audio interface browse to the GLOBAL SETUP and edit the INTERFACE VOL parameter. After tweaking the volume for the first time the INTERFACE VOL parameter will be quickly accessible using the PARAMETER encoder until you select another parameter.

Included applications

Along with your X-GEAR you get a Librarian App to manage your presets and AmpliTube 5 SE to edit your presets from your computer and use them inside AmpliTube.
Follow the instructions found in the box to get the X-GEAR Librarian and AmpliTube 5 SE.

MIDI Specifications

X-VIBE presents 150 numbered banks with 2 presets each for a total of 300 presets.
Since MIDI program changes can only go up to 127 the presets are split into 3 MIDI Patch Banks:

MIDI BANK 0 (CC#0 Value=0) = PRESETS 00A-63B
MIDI BANK 1 (CC#0 Value=1) = PRESETS 64A-127B
MIDI BANK 2 (CC#0 Value=2) = PRESETS 128A-149B
In each MIDI PATCH BANK, the presets are numbered sequentially:
PRESET 00A = MIDI Program #0
PRESET 00B = MIDI Program #1
PRESET 01A = MIDI Program #2
PRESET 01B = MIDI Program #3
… up to MIDI Program #127

X-VIBE always powers up in MIDI Patch Bank 0, therefore if you stay withing the first 127 presets (00A-63B), simply send a standard MIDI Program Change message to load a preset.
If you plan to use presets above the 127th you should send a standard MIDI Bank Change message (MIDI CC# 0) with a value equal to the MIDI Bank you’d like to use before each MIDI Program Change.

For individual parameter control changes, see each modulation model in the Modulation Models paragraph.
When a parameter range is not linear its values are equally divided among the 128 steps of a Control Change value.

Features

AmpliTube X-VIBE

•  Breakthrough software and hardware integration for guitarists
• State-of-the-art DSP in a road-worthy anodized aluminum chassis
• 16 different algorithms, 50 factory presets (300 storable presets)
• Chorus, flanger, rotary and more + Tap Tempo and BPM sync
• Includes exclusive virtual X-VIBE version for use in AmpliTube 5
• USB port for preset management and use as a recording interface
• Designed and made in Italy for a lifetime of playing and gigging
• Ultra-low noise, 24-bit/192kHz converters for class-leading sound quality
• 5 Hz–24 kHz frequency response to capture the full scope of your guitar’s sound
• 112 dB dynamic range provides whisper-quiet operation at any gain setting
• Selectable true or soft bypass for maximum control
• 5Hz to 24kHz frequency response to record the full range of your guitar or bass
• Versatile routing options let you send the wet or dry signal to your DAW
• Full MIDI implementation to map control of AmpliTube and/or any compatible DAW
• Fast, intuitive interface and control knobs to tweak your sound on the fly
• High-contrast LED display keeps you informed on everything, indoors and out
• Expression pedal input adds additional control over any parameter you choose
• 5 cabinet impulse responses let you connect directly to a powered cab or PA

Package includes

• X-VIBE pedal
• USB A-Type to USB B-Type connection cable (1.5m/4.32ft)
• Power Supply Unit
• Plug-in and Preset Librarian serial number

Dimensions

• Size: 17.5cm/6.88” x 14.5cm/5.7” x 5.8cm/2.28”
• Weight: 906g/31.96oz

System Requirements

AmpliTube 5
AmpliTube is a 64-bit application and requires a 64-bit CPU and Operating System.
Mac® (64-bits)

• Minimal: Intel® Core™ 2 Duo (Intel Core i5 suggested), 4 GB of RAM (8 GB suggested), macOS 10.10 or later. 3 GB of hard drive space.
• Requires an OpenGL 2 compatible graphics adapter.
• Supported Plug-in formats (64-bit): Audio Units, VST 2, VST 3, AAX.

Windows® (64-bits)

• Minimal: Intel® Core™ 2 Duo or AMD Athlon™ 64 X2 (Intel Core i5 suggested), 4 GB of RAM (8 GB suggested). Windows® 7 or later. 3 GB of hard drive space.
• Requires an ASIO compatible sound card.
• Requires an OpenGL 2 compatible graphics adapter.
• Supported Plug-in formats (64-bit): VST 2, VST 3, AAX.
  To use X-GEAR as audio interface on Windows devices, Windows® 10 or later is required.

AmpliTube X-GEAR series

Discover the full AmpliTube X-GEAR series:

Learn more at www.ikmultimedia.com/xgear

IK Multimedia Production Srl
Via dell’Industria, 46,
41122 Modena
Italy|

IK Multimedia US, LLC
590 Sawgrass Corporate Pkwy.
Sunrise, FL 33325
USA

| IK Multimedia Asia
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4-11-1 Shiba
Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-0014
Japan
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www.ikmultimedia.com

AmpliTube®, X-GEAR, X-DRIVE, X-SPACE, X-TIME, X-VIBE are trademarks or registered trademarks property of IK Multimedia Production Srl. All other product  names and images, trademarks and artists names are the property of their respective owners, which are in no way associated or affiliated with IK Multimedia. Product names  are used solely for the purpose of identifying the specific products that were studied during IK Multimedia’s sound model development and for describing certain types of  tones produced with IK Multimedia’s digital modeling technology. Use of these names does not imply any cooperation or endorsement.

All specifications are subject to change without further notice.
Document Version: 1.0
Latest Update: 2021/09/21
© 2021 IK Multimedia. All rights reserved.

References

• IK MULTIMEDIA. SOUND BETTER.
• AmpliTube X-GEAR pedals - Bring perfect studio guitar sound onstage

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