Press release follows:
Black Corporation is thrilled to introduce EXPANDER MK2, a revolutionary
tabletop or 6U rack mount effects processor combining the magic of both analog
and digital worlds. A major evolutionary leap from our original EXPANDER, MK2
takes multi-effects processing to new heights, boasting an incredibly flexible
effects system that covers everything from reverb and delay to modulation and
overdrive, and much more.
With line and HI-Z inputs, the EXPANDER MK2 is perfect for a diverse range of
music producers, synthesizer users, guitarists, bassists, and live musicians
looking to expand their sonic horizons. The stereo and dual-mono routings offer
an immense range of connections, with each channel having its own distinct
effects chain. The intuitive routing matrix array of LED tact switches lets you
create an endless variety of effects chains, from sending a single source to
multiple effects in parallel, to cascading them in series.
EXPANDER MK2’s interface takes a knob per function approach, allowing you to
dive right into new sonic territories. You can easily save and recall all your
settings as presets, with complete MIDI CC functionality, foot switch, and
expression pedal inputs adding even more control possibilities.
Delay: The delay section is MIDI syncable, offering both digital and analog
options. The digital delay is based on the legendary PCM42, with the same
discrete 12-bit ADC/DACs, optical compressor, and filters as the original.
Guidance from Gary Hall, the engineer behind the original unit, has resulted in
a sound as close to the original rack as possible, with the added benefit of a
modern CPU and expanded memory.The analog delay, using analog BBD circuitry,
offers a warmer tone with up to 820 milliseconds of delay time. Both delays
feature panning controls for added spatial motion.
Reverb: As on the delay, EXPANDER MK2 boasts both digital and analog options.
The digital reverb is based on the lush and spacious 224, faithfully recreated
by our friends at Meris. The spring reverb uses two 17” tanks (one for each
channel) each equipped with an EQ and digital pre-delay section.
Modulator: The modulator is a ring modulator section with enhanced
functionality. The first being a quadrant multiplier ring modulator for clean,
modern silicon chip-based sounds, and the second, a vintage-style, harmonically
rich transformer and diode based ring. The modulator also includes a reference
oscillator with an attack and release envelope controlling its pitch, similar to
that on DECKARDS’S DREAM’s predecessor, the CS-80.
Chorus: The chorus section features two distinct BBD chorus lines, with manual
controls for speed and depth, to add subtle stereo widening or intense,
turbulent animation. For fans of the classic four-button chorus, those presets
are in there too! Phaser: The phaser section includes an analog OTA- based
12-stage phaser circuit for warm, psychedelic phaser effects, as well as an
optical phaser to get a classic Krautrock sound.
Insert / Resonator: The Insert / Resonator section allows you to patch in
outboard effects into any part of the effects chain. The resonator component can
be used as a subtle EQ to sculpt the tone or can be modulated by the LFO section
to create animated resonant or panning effects. The insert returns and sends can
occur pre or post-resonator and can also be used as an extra input and output to
route multiple signals. When used in parallel, these can turn EXPANDER MK2 into
a 4-channel effects processor.
Overdrive: The overdrive section uses Korg’s groundbreaking Nu-Tube micro tube
technology to add subtle texture and warmth to any sound, from guitars, synths,
drum machines or vocals to anything in between. When pushed further, it can
create screaming distortion, perfect for anyone looking to turn up the heat.
LFO: The LFO section features a multitude of LFO’s routable to nearly any
destination of the other sections, adding life and movement throughout the
signal path.
A convenient selection of connections on the back panel of EXPANDER MK2 includes
balanced inputs and outputs, stereo send and return (via individual 1/4′′ jacks
or using a common DB25 connector), expression and switch pedals, USB, and DIN
MIDI. Additionally, the front includes a convenient HI-Z input for guitarists or
any instrumentalist with quieter outputs to plug and play right away. EXPANDER
MK2’s natural wood sides can be switched out for included rack ears.
EXPANDER MK2 is a vintage effects inspired powerhouse pushing the boundaries of
sound in a
robust, studio form factor. Its hands on capabilities and nearly endless routing
options make it an outstanding companion to any production or live set up!"
