Sound Sculpture Introduces 8-by-8 Switchblade Models
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| Artist's Rendering |
November 15, 2000
Sound Sculpture announces 2 new additions to the Switchblade line, the balanced Switchblade 8B and the unbalanced Switchblade 8. Both models retain the same features and true matrix design of the popular Switchblade GL but in a smaller 8 by 8 arrangement.
The Switchblade 8B uses servo balance inputs and outputs allowing connection to either balanced or unbalanced gear. The Switchblade 8 allows connection only to unbalanced gear but at a lower cost. The 8 by 8 arrangement is ideal for smaller rack effect systems with a limited number of processors. For example, 2 guitars, 2 amplifiers, 2 stereo signal processors and 2 mono processors could be used with these Switchblade models. Both models have the same front panel display and controls as the Switchblade GL in a smaller lighter package.
All Switchblade models are based on the exclusive Sound Sculpture true matrix design which allows complete freedom over how instruments, processors, and amplifiers may be connected together, this in addition to full control over gain levels at each connection.
Unlike other switching system designs which restrict the way effects can be connected together, such as only in parallel or only in a predefined series order, the Switchblade’s unique design removes all limitations as to how effects can be wired together. Under preset control, processors can be mixed in parallel, wired in series in any order or connected in parallel/series combinations. Changing presets instantly and silently rewires all processors, instruments, and amp connections and re-adjusts gain levels between all devices.
The addition of any MIDI controller pedal extends the Switchblade’s ability by allowing scalable crossfading and volume swelling of any number of connections within a preset. Additional features include internal sweep modes for automatic panning and crossfading and an extended Sys-Ex command set for powerful studio automation.
Although the Switchblade can create very complex presets, programming it is simple and intuitive. All inputs and outputs are given names during setup, such as "guitar", "reverb", and so on. From that point all presets are made simply by scrolling to the effect name and setting a gain for that connection. Programming a complex preset from the front panel typically takes a couple of minutes and simple ones, just a few seconds.
A windows based control program is also available free of charge from the Sound Sculpture web site. This icon based program makes it easy to create presets by connecting processors visually using the mouse and downloading the presets to the Switchblade for standalone use. For more information, visit their web site at www.soundsculpture.com. | 
