The Sony DPS-F7 Digital Dynamic Filter Plus was a sophisticated signal processor that introduced advanced digital filter technology into the world of studio effects. Offering ten distinct algorithms, it provided a sound environment that went well beyond the capabilities of conventional effect units of its time.
Central to its high-quality performance were its premium A/D and D/A converters. Incoming analogue signals were converted to digital, processed through a variety of effects, and then returned to analogue form using an 18-bit oversampling stereo A/D converter and a 49.152 MHz clock advanced pulse D/A converter. This meticulous design ensured precise signal processing with minimal degradation, preserving sonic integrity throughout the signal path.
Ease of use was another key aspect of the Sony DPS-F7, (at least it was supposed to be, but the depth of the menus made it a complex beast to find your way around in) thanks to its large backlit LCD display capable of showing 40 characters over two lines. This allowed real-time visual feedback and smooth operation. The unit also included an on-line manual directly accessible through the display, offering instant access to operation instructions.
The Sony DPS-F7 featured an extensive bank of one hundred preset effects created by musicians, sound mixers and acoustic engineers worldwide, giving users immediate access to a wide array of creative options suited for various applications. In addition to the presets, the EDIT function allowed users to modify existing effects or create entirely new ones. Beyond the factory presets, the unit could store up to 256 custom patches in user memory, greatly expanding the sonic palette and making it easy to switch between effects as needed.
At its core, the Sony DPS-F7 combined multiple processing roles into one device. It included an effector to process and output signals, a vocoder that modulated one input channel based on another, and a synthesiser capable of generating sounds via MIDI signals. These functions were enhanced by newly developed algorithms grounded in digital filter techniques, allowing for a broad and flexible range of effects. Each effect block was logically divided into sections, simplifying the process of locating and adjusting specific parameters. For added convenience, a dedicated remote controller, the Sony RM-DPS7, was available separately to give users more operational flexibility.
Connectivity was robust, with two I/O terminal systems offering both balanced XLR connectors and standard phone jacks. This made it suitable for integration with musical instruments, recording gear, and PA systems. Furthermore, full MIDI implementation meant that the Sony DPS-F7 could be seamlessly linked with other MIDI equipment.
It could respond to program change messages for patch selection and interpret control change or key touch signals to adjust effect levels dynamically. This made it highly effective in MIDI-based studio environments. Automated performances were also supported through MIDI sequencers or computers equipped with MIDI interfaces, offering additional versatility for live or programmed use.
Features
- Ten digital filter-based algorithms for advanced signal processing
- 18-bit oversampling stereo A/D converter and 49.152 MHz pulse D/A converter
- Large backlit LCD with 40 characters by 2 lines for real-time operation feedback
- Built-in on-line manual accessible through the display
- 100 factory preset effects created by musicians and engineers worldwide
- EDIT function for modifying presets or creating custom effects
- User memory capable of storing up to 256 additional custom effects
- Built-in effector, vocoder, and MIDI-driven synthesiser functions
- Advanced digital filter algorithm for flexible sound design
- Logical sectioned effect block layout for easy parameter access
- Optional remote controller available (Sony RM-DPS7)
- XLR balanced and phone jack connectors for versatile connectivity
- Full MIDI implementation for program change, control change, and automation
