Skip to content
VTR Effects | KAILANI | Studio Reverb | English Manual - Gsus4

VTR Effects | KAILANI | Studio Reverb | English Manual

Table of Contents:

  1. First Steps with Kailani Reverb
  2. Connections
  3. Kailani Reverb Connections
    • Mono and Stereo Connections
    • Pedal Operating Levels
    • USB-Micro B Port
    • MIDI Input and Output
  4. Kailani Reverb Controls
    • Sky
    • Decay
    • Sea
    • Mode
    • Mix
    • Bypass LED
    • Bypass Switch
    • Preset LED
    • Preset Switch
  5. Global Menu
    • Bypass Mode
    • MIDI Channel
    • Kill Dry
    • Presets Queue
    • Presets Value
    • Presets Fade Audio
    • Ramp
    • Firmware Update
    • Clear Presets
    • Calibration
  6. Understanding Presets
  7. Understanding the Ramp
  8. MIDI Operations
    • Accessing Presets via #PC
    • Controlling Parameters via #CC
  9. Technical Specifications
  10. Changelog

Power Supply

Note: Power supply sold separately.

The Kailani Reverb requires a standard 9V DC negative tip power supply (5.5 x 2.1 mm plug) that can supply 300mA (minimum) for proper operation. You can use an isolated or shared power supply. However, it's highly recommended to use an isolated power supply unit or a power supply connection from your pedalboard's power supply.

Important power notes:

  • The Kailani requires at least 300mA of current. Make sure your power supply can provide at least 300mA for proper operation and performance.
  • An isolated power supply is recommended, as it is truly isolated and generally uses multiple transformers for each connection. Some power supplies may have separate connections but can leak current between them, even when they advertise total isolation.
  • Avoid trying to connect a power supply that provides less than 300mA to the 9VDC input. The circuit that checks if there is enough current will disable the transformer if it detects insufficient current.
  • If the power supply does not provide enough current, you may need to use a standard isolated power supply through your pedalboard. The power supply can provide 300mA of current, but the pedal may not function consistently, even when LEDs and instruments appear to be functioning.

Here's the continued translation:

Kailani Reverb Connections

All audio connections use 1/4" TRS jacks (can accept TRS instrument cables or standard 1/4" TS cables). Please use TRS (Tip-Ring-Sleeve) cables for best benefits with your signal chain.

Mono and Stereo Connections

To use Kailani in Mono mode, connect your instrument's output or the previous pedal's Output L to the Input L, and connect the Output L to the next pedal or amplifier interface in your signal chain. The signal will be processed from the input L and will come out through Kailani Reverb.

To use Kailani in Stereo mode, connect the inputs and outputs to their respective L/R inputs of the previous and subsequent equipment in the signal chain.

Pedal Operating Levels

Kailani will automatically adjust itself to easily accommodate instrument levels. The pedals are designed for instrument-level processing, so you may need to reduce the output level of the previous equipment connected to the pedal to avoid clipping or DSP overload.

Maximum Input Level: +7.7 dBu -> 1.9V RMS = 5.5V p-p Maximum Output Level: +7.7 dBu -> 1.9V RMS = 5.5V p-p

USB-Micro B Port

The USB-Micro B port on the Kailani is used for firmware updates. You can update via USB (USB-MIDI) and preset transfer system.

MIDI Input and Output

The Kailani uses a standard Gold Series 5-pin DIN interface compatible with the universal standard established by the MIDI protocol, using standard optocouplers. The MIDI connection is made through PS (Phoenix-Style) connectors integrated into the back of the case. If your controller has an integrated female PS port, it will be necessary to use a male-to-male cable to connect the DIN 5 Pin to PS.

MIDI DIN 5-Pin => PS Pin: [Diagram showing MIDI DIN 5 connector pinout and TRS connector pinout]

The MIDI connector must maintain the same polarity.

Kailani Reverb Controls

The following controls are available on the Kailani:

Sky

The Sky knob has a specific function in each reverb mode, which will be displayed on the display and its function will be lit according to the selected reverb mode.

Decay

The Decay knob controls the reverb decay time.

Sea

The Sea knob has a specific function in each reverb mode, which will be displayed on the display and its function will be lit according to the selected reverb mode.

Mode

The Mode knob is a rotary encoder that, when used alone, can also select presets. It is worth noting that you are the master of algorithms, accessing the parameter menu, global menu, factory presets, etc.

Mix

The Mix knob controls the volume of the reverb effect and will influence your wet/dry signal. The signal is attenuated in real time from 0dB to -20dB.

Here's the continued translation:

Bypass LED

Green LED indicates when the pedal is activated (on).

Bypass Switch

Through the FootSwitch bypass, it's possible to bypass/activate the effect and control the reverb time.

Preset LED

These LEDs indicate 3 states of the preset system:

Blue: Preset as it was saved Pink: Shows modifications that have not been saved yet Red: Indicates preset file was corrupted Off: No preset currently loaded, pedal is in free mode

Preset Switch

Through the FootSwitch Preset, it's possible to navigate between the pedal's preset system, the preset selection, and better understand how to use it.

Global Menu

The global menu contains various effect states of the pedal. Some of these states are interpreted globally by the pedal, while others are associated with presets.

Bypass Mode

In bypass mode, it's possible to choose between two options: true bypass or buffered bypass. In true bypass mode, the effect is completely removed from the signal path. In buffered bypass, the processor is still active but without applying effects. When the effect is activated, the signal still goes through the same bypass algorithm so the DSP stays on line. Thus, the reverb tail can still be heard even after disengaging the effect.

MIDI Channel

Kailani receives MIDI messages on 16 channels. Here you can configure which channel you want it to respond to in the MIDI signal chain. By configuring MIDI in the global menu, you start to have control of communication in both directions, as the pedal responds to commands when in global menu.

Kill Dry

By activating Kill Dry, your signal will be entirely 100% wet on the dry signal in real time. In the global menu, you'll find the separate option to use this feature for the channel separately in stereo.

Presets Queue

Kailani can save up to 99 presets, but we suggest that only the first 40 presets are assigned per firmware presets. For this, we limit the file list to 40 presets. Over time, with firmware updates, we will release more files, without losing the possibility of having 99 presets and using your own presets.

Presets Value

Here, you will see all parameters saved within a preset. To use this function, you should select a preset first. When confirming, the preset returns to its "empty" message.

Presets Fade Audio

This function aims to create a smooth transition effect between presets, proportional to the fade in and fade out between the current preset and the next preset.

Fade Time Out: In this configuration, you can define the necessary time for the pedal to make a Fade Out, ranging from 300ms to 2s. If you prefer to disable this option, leave it set to "disabled".

Fade Time In: Adjusts what can be defined as the necessary time for the pedal to make a Fade In, ranging from 300ms to 2s. If you prefer to disable this option, leave it set to "disabled".

This function is enabled globally on the pedal, so it will be applied to all transitions between presets.

Here's the continued translation:

Ramp

O Ramp allows you to simulate a time ramp that simulates an expression pedal. You can apply this function to Sky, Decay, and Sea knobs. It's also possible to adjust the rise/fall speed of parameters from 50ms to 20sec.

Firmware Update

Warning: The update method shown here will no longer work from version 1.1.5 onwards. Visit vtreffects.com.br for updates.

To update the firmware on your Kailani, follow the instructions below:

  1. Power the pedal's 9V supply
  2. Connect the USB cable for data communication
  3. Hold the preset footswitch while turning on in global menu and choose "update"
  4. Open your preferred browser and go to the pedal page. At this time, firmware will be available for download in the latest version
  5. You must accept when your browser informs you that the firmware download has started

Clear Presets

This function will erase all presets on the pedal. Take extra care when using this function as it is irreversible!

Calibration

This function is essential and should be done right after updating the pedal, as it will calibrate the knob readings on the Kailani processor. Follow the instructions on how to use this function:

  1. Turn all knobs fully to the left. Note that an LED will preset according to each.
  2. Click on Mode Mode to continue. When all LEDs have turned to the left, it will display a message in the center.
  3. Turn all knobs to the right. Note that an LED will preset according to each.
  4. Click on Mode Mode and calibration will be finalized.

When entering the calibration menu, it's necessary that the process is done correctly, otherwise, the pedal may not function correctly and it will be necessary to redo the process completely.

Understanding the Ramp

The ramp is an expression-like feature in modes of expression, with 3 knobs from Kailani: Sky, Decay, and Sea. It's not possible to add this resource with other parameters, as they are assigned in hardware in a different way to the 3 knobs listed.

For control to be more simple, each resource parameter corresponds to a footswitch (in this case, bypass when the effect is already activated). When pressing footswitch and maintaining for 1% to 99%, the signal/footswitch can add your new parameter where this rise ramp will be activated, similar to disconnecting expression.

Here's the continued translation:

Understanding Presets

With the capability to save 99 presets, the Kailani Reverb has become a much more versatile play mate, which makes it unnecessary to search for your perfect reverb recipes. Now let's understand how the preset system works and what's behind it.

Preset Queue (preset file)

The preset file consists of a list of 10 positions that can be configured by users in the pedal's global menu. After configured, the file allows the user to easily browse specific presets, remembering their list.

When starting the pedal, it's configured in "live" mode and the first file position. When selecting a command to advance in the preset file, the pedal enters into position 1 of the file, allowing for smooth parameter selection. Moving forward, when selecting the command to advance in the preset file, the pedal enters into position 2 of the file, and so on.

It's important to highlight that when the pedal is in position 10 of the file, it's a special command to advance (pedal returns automatically to "live" mode at position 0 of the file). This means that after selecting the last configured preset in position 10, the user can smoothly return to "live" mode without the need to browse the preset file.

Queue Limiter (File Limiter)

This ensures safety in handling version 0.1.8, as you can define how many presets in the file will be selected. Being possible to define a minimum of 2 presets to a maximum of 10 presets.

Saving a preset

To save a preset on Kailani, first press and hold the footswitch of the preset set automatically for 2 seconds. After this period, the pedal enters preset save mode. The first step is to choose a slot where the preset will be saved, which can be 1 to 99 positions.

If the chosen position already contains a saved preset, the existing preset name will be separated just before the user sees that this position is occupied. If the user wishes to proceed and save a new preset in the same position, the previous preset will be completely erased and cannot be recovered.

It's important to mention that the save process is irreversible, therefore, it's necessary to be sure that the desired preset is being saved in the correct position. If there is any doubt in selection, it's recommended to cancel the save process and start again from choosing the slot.

Navigating between presets

Navigation between presets is controlled by the Mode footswitch or preset. By touching the footswitch once, the user advances to the next file position. When touching the footswitch twice in sequence, the user returns to the previous position in the file. This navigation system by footswitch is simple and intuitive, allowing for quick reference between presets without affecting performance.

Some relevant information about preset navigation should be highlighted:

  • The initial 400ms between presets is essential because this time is necessary for the microcontroller to understand if this was a simple touch or a double tap on footswitch.
  • Some specific behaviors are recommended, and the time between presets should always be short and fluid. This behavior cannot be modified in future firmware updates because it is directly linked to the form as DSP works with algorithms and the time of parameters. However, as all presets follow the same algorithm, it is not yet a force to choose between presets during a musical execution or performance.

Presets Loop

In this function, when used in live use, when advancing to the last preset, it will automatically return to the first preset in the sequence. Similarly, when using the presets down function, if the pedal stops at the first preset of the file, this loop function will be activated.

StartMode

In this function, when used in live use, the footswitch goes into "live" mode in the first file preset.

MIDI

With MIDI controllers, you can have much more control of your Kailani Reverb, avoiding touch messages from type #PC to #CC, follow below what messages should be sent to the pedal:

Accessing Presets via #PC

To access a Preset via MIDI, you should send a MIDI #PC (Program Change) message to the channel that the pedal is configured to, with the number of Preset you want to access.

Example:

  • #PC value 1 to access Preset 1
  • #PC value 70 to access Preset 70

Controlling Parameters via #CC

To control a parameter via MIDI, you should send a MIDI message #CC (Continuous Controller) to the channel that the pedal is configured to, following the basic table below. Send this message to directly activate or connect parameters via midi, or control them with a value received via MIDI, which is a function that works very well.

Parameter MIDI CC # MIDI CC Value
Bypass 1 127 ON/0 OFF
Programs 2 Spring 1
Hall 2
Plate 3
Cathedral 4
Room 5
Shimmer 6
Dive 7
Lo-Fi 8
Expand 10
Divided 11
Decay 3 0-127
Sea 4 0-127
Sky 5 0-127
Mix 6 0-127

We are working on more MIDI implementations for future updates, if you have any suggestion, please contact us by email.

Technical Specifications

  • Electrostatic blue paint finish
  • Dimensions: 12 cm x 8 cm x 6.2 cm (height includes knobs)
  • Weight: 500 grams
  • Superior finish through UV (Ultra Violet) printing
  • Relay-based true bypass
  • DSP Processor 24-bit 32KHz A/D & D/A converters
  • ARM 32Bits processor at 240Mhz
  • Input Impedance: 500KΩ
  • Output Impedance: 200Ω
  • Fully analog dry signal
  • Fully digital wet signal with 20Hz-15KHz frequency response
  • Operating voltage: 9V DC (BOSS Polarity)
  • Current consumption: 300mA
  • Industrial quality PCB

Changelog

V1.0.1 - First documentation tested on presets, all values need to be validated

  • Includes preset switch function
  • Improves calibration function read of potentiometers parameters MIDI/ARM
  • Fix minor bugs

V1.1.2 - This update is only available for version 1.0.1, this documentation was written per preset, since. If this is your case, you should update immediately to this version. It's not recommended to update first to 1.0.1

  • New algorithm: Ephemeral
  • Presets Fade Audio function
  • Global Menu expanded

V1.1.3

  • New algorithm: Expand

V1.1.4

  • Function to format file as inverted preset

V1.1.5

  • New algorithm: Divided
  • Function USB inverted (has file transfer system for presets)

V1.1.6

V1.1.7 - Version not launched officially

V1.1.8

V1.1.9

  • New algorithm: Infinity
  • Remove firmware update function, from this update all future updates will be only via app

V1.1.0

  • New algorithm: VerbDelay
  • Added new Presets Settings
  • MIDI integration
  • Function Standmode
  • MIDI integration finalized
Next article VTR Effects | HELIOS | Dynamic Overdrive | English Manual

Leave a comment

Comments must be approved before appearing

* Required fields