Version 2 Software Enhancements for Lexicon's MPX 500

May 24, 2001

Lexicon, Inc., a Harman International company, has announced a new software upgrade kit for the popular MPX 500. Available through Lexicon’s authorized dealer network or online at www.lexiconstore.com, Version 2 software (upgrade kit includes V2 ROM) can be purchased for $119.95 (M.S.R.P. in the U.S.). Version 2 software is an easy and affordable way for end users to upgrade their MPX 500 to add the following features:

A Dedicated Compressor — V2 software adds a dedicated stereo compressor that acts on both L and R channels simultaneously and uses the sum of the two channels as its trigger. It can be used as a single-channel compressor with side-chain trigger by feeding one channel a level that is at least 6 dB hotter than the other, thus making that channel’s signal dominate the compressor’s performance. The compressor is available on all presets, and is placed in the Wet component of the signal path in front of the effect(s) for the current preset. Ratio values available are 1:1 (Off), 2:1, 3:1, 4:1, 5:1, and 10:1. Threshold values range from 0 dB to -32 dB and are relative to 0 dB as indicating "digital saturation." In addition, a new System parameter named Compressor Mode has been added. Like Tempo Mode and Mix Mode, it determines whether new compressor settings are to be loaded with each program-load or whether the current "global" values should be maintained.

Input-Level Meters Now Show Calibration Values — The input-level meters (left side of the LCD display) now show calibration values, with 0 dB referencing digital saturation. Markings on the open portion of each meter show -6, -18 and -32 dB. As the signal level rises to cover these markings, the lower portion of each meter shows marks at 6 dB intervals. Gain reduction from the compressor is indicated by a descending bar between the two input level meters calibrated in 2 dB increments.

250 Easy To Use Presets — Version 2 software comes with 250 presets including a new bank named Compressor. This bank features dedicated presets for compressor-only as well as presets for combination compressor and reverb with parallel (dual stereo) routing. The Compressor/Reverb presets are constructed to give the user both a reverb component and a zero-delay "dry" component, with the compressor acting on both.

New Factory Defaults — The factory default for Mix Mode, Tempo Mode, and Compressor Mode is now Program (not Global as in Version 1). This change is intended to make using the Compressor presets easier since they generally require a Wet (100%) Mix.

A More Responsive Tap Button — The Tap button on the MPX 500 with the new V2 software installed, now responds to consecutive presses instead of every other press. This allows end users to more accurately tap in tempos for delay, echo, etc…

The MPX 500 is a true stereo 24-bit dual-channel processor with balanced analog and S/PDIF digital I/O. Powered by Lexicon’s proprietary Lexichip3, the MPX 500 has over 200 presets with classic, true stereo reverb programs such as Ambience, Plate, Chamber and Inverse, as well as Tremolo, Rotary, Chorus, Flange, Pitch, Detune, 5.5 second Delay and Echo. Dual-channel processing allows control of completely independent effects on the left and right channels. Four dedicated front panel knobs permit adjustment of four pages of displayed effect parameters. An easy Learn mode allows MIDI patching of front panel controls. In addition, tempo-controlled delays lock to Tap or MIDI clock, and Tap tempos can be controlled by audio input, the front panel Tap button, footswitch, external MIDI controller or MIDI Program Change. Other features include a graphics display with metering and tempo displays, a software-selectable MIDI OUT/THRU port, pushbutton or footswitch selection of dry or muted audio output, and a built-in power supply.

For more information, visit their web site at www.lexicon.com.