Using the ES2’s Integrated Effect Processing Section

The ES2 is equipped with an integrated effect processor. Any changes to the parameters of these effects are saved with each sound setting.

Figure. Effect Processing section, showing Distortion parameters, and the Intensty and Speed controls shared by the Chorus, Flanger and Phaser effects.

You can activate only two effects at the same time.

ES2 Distortion Effect

The Distortion effect offers the following parameters:

  • Soft button: Activates the Distortion effect Soft mode. The distortion circuit sounds somewhat like a tube overdrive.
  • Hard button: Activates the Distortion effect Hard mode. The distortion effect sounds like a fully transistorized fuzz box.
  • Distortion knob: Defines the amount of distortion. Turn this knob to zero to disable the effect.
  • Tone knob: Controls the treble portion of the distortion effect output.

ES2 Chorus Effect

A chorus effect is based on a delay line, the output of which is mixed with the original, dry signal. The short delay time is modulated periodically, resulting in pitch deviations. The modulated deviations, in conjunction with the original signal’s pitch, produce the chorus effect.

To activate the Chorus effect
  • Enable the Chorus button.

    • The Intensity parameter determines the depth of the effect (how “rich” the modulation is). Turn this knob to zero to disable the effect.

    • The Speed parameter determines the modulation rate.

ES2 Flanger Effect

A flanger works in a similar fashion to a chorus, but with even shorter delay times. The output signal is fed back into the input of the delay line. This feedback results in the creation of harmonic resonances—which wander cyclically through the spectrum, giving the signal a “metallic” sound.

To activate the Flanger effect
  • Click the Flanger button.

    • The Intensity parameter determines the depth of the effect—how “cutting” the modulation is. Turn this knob to zero to disable the effect.

    • The Speed parameter determines the modulation rate.

ES2 Phaser Effect

A phaser mixes a delayed and an original signal. The delayed element is derived from an allpass filter, which applies a frequency-dependent delay to the signal. This is expressed as a phase angle. The effect is based on a comb filter, which is basically an array of inharmonic notches—rather than resonances, as with the flanger—which also wander through the frequency spectrum.

To activate the Phaser effect
  • Click the Phaser button.

    • The Intensity parameter determines the depth of the “sweeping” effect—the width of the modulation. Turn this knob to zero to disable the effect.

    • The Speed parameter determines the modulation rate.