User manual KORG AX 1500G

Contents 1. Introduction --------------------- 3 Main features ---------------------------- 3 Printing conventions in this manual ---------- 3 Important things to learn ------------- 4 Front and rear panel --------------------------- 4 The modes of the AX1500G ------------------ 7 Effect channels of the AX1500G ------------- 7 2. Playing the AX1500G -------- 8 Example connections------------------- 8 Play mode -------------------------------- 8 Adjusting the master level --------------------- 8 Selecting a program ---------------------------- 8 Switching between effect channels ----------- 9 Bypass and mute -------------------------------- 9 Auto tuner ----------------------------------------- 9 Metronome --------------------------------------- 9 Expression pedal ------------------------------ 10 Individual mode ------------------------10 Phrase Trainer mode ------------------ 11 3. Editing -------------------------- 12 Editing effects --------------------------- 12 Setting the noise reduction and program levels ------ 13 Modifying program names ---------- 13 Writing programs---------------------- 13 4. Appendices -------------------- 14 Adjusting the expression pedal) ---- 14 Restoring the user programs to the factory settings --- 14 Troubleshooting ------------------------15 Main specifications -------------------- 15 Effect parameters ---------------------- 16 DRIVE-AMP effects block -------------------CABINET effect block ------------------------MODULATION effect block -----------------PEDAL effect block ---------------------------AMBIENCE effect block ---------------------16 17 18 20 22 Preset Program List -------------------- 23 E 1 Precautions Location Using the unit in the following locations can result in a malfunction. · In direct sunlight · Locations of extreme temperature or humidity · Excessively dusty or dirty locations · Locations of excessive vibration Power supply Please connect the designated AC adaptor to an AC outlet of the correct voltage. Do not connect it to an AC outlet of voltage other than that for which your unit is intended. Interference with other electrical devices This product contains a microcomputer. Radios and televisions placed nearby may experience reception interference. Operate this unit at a suitable distance from radios and televisions. Handling To avoid breakage, do not apply excessive force to the switches or controls. Care If the exterior becomes dirty, wipe it with a clean, dry cloth. Do not use liquid cleaners such as benzene or thinner, or cleaning compounds or flammable polishes. Keep this manual After reading this manual, please keep it for later reference. Keeping foreign matter out of your equipment · Never set any container with liquid in it near this equipment. If liquid gets into the equipment, it could cause a breakdown, fire, or electrical shock. · Be careful not to let metal objects get into the equipment. If something does slip into the equipment, unplug the AC adaptor from the wall outlet. Then contact your nearest Korg dealer or the store where the equipment was purchased. THE FCC REGULATION WARNING (for U.S.A.) This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures: · Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. · Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver. · Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected. · Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help. Unauthorized changes or modification to this system can void the user's authority to operate this equipment. CE mark for European Harmonized Standards CE mark which is attached to our company's products of AC mains operated apparatus until December 31, 1996 means it conforms to EMC Directive (89/336/EEC) and CE mark Directive (93/68/EEC). And, CE mark which is attached after January 1, 1997 means it conforms to EMC Directive (89/336/EEC), CE mark Directive (93/68/EEC) and Low Voltage Directive (73/23/EEC). Also, CE mark which is attached to our company's products of Battery operated apparatus means it conforms to EMC Directive (89/336/EEC) and CE mark Directive (93/68/EEC). 2 1. Introduction Thank you for purchasing the ToneWorks AX1500G Modeling Signal Processor. In order to enjoy your AX1500G to the fullest, please read this manual carefully, to ensure maximum performance. Please keep this manual for future reference. Main features · 56 types of modeling effect variations are built-in, and a maximum of eight types of effect can be used simultaneously. · 48 preset programs (3 x 16 banks) and 48 rewritable user programs (3 x 16 banks) are built-in. · You can switch between effect channels (A, B) to change the combination of the drive amp effect and the cabinet effect without switching programs. · Use the effect block select knobs to instantly switch the effects for each of the five effect blocks (DRIVE-AMP, CABINET, MODULATION, PEDAL, AMBIENCE). · You can use the expression pedal to control eleven types of pedal effects in realtime. · In individual mode you can use foot switches to turn each effect on/off independently. · The Sample & Play function lets you record a phrase that you play (for a maximum of 8 seconds), and then operate the pedal to play back the phrase. · The built-in Phrase Trainer function lets you record sound from an audio device or a guitar performance (maximum 16 seconds), and play it back at a slower speed without changing the pitch. · A metronome is built in for practicing convenience. · Built in tuner mute function for on stage tuning. · An AUX IN jack is provided so that you can play along with a connected audio device. · Use the auto chromatic tuner to tune your instrument when the AX1500G is bypassed or muted. · The LCD (liquid crystal display) features an intuitive visual interface. · The LCD is backlit for easy visibility even in dark locations. What is ? (Resonant structure and Electronic circuit Modeling System) is KORG's proprietary sound modeling technology which precisely reproduces the complex character and nature of both acoustic and electric instruments as well as electronic circuits in real world environments. emulates a wide variety of sound generation characteristics including instrument bodies, speakers & cabinets, acoustic fields, microphones, vacuum tubes, transistors, etc. Printing conventions in this manual The logo indicates operating cautions, and indicates useful advice. LCD screens printed in this manual are only for purposes of illustration, and may not match the actual display on your AX1500G. 3 1. Introduction · Korg's modeling technology provides detailed and powerful modeling sounds. 1. Introduction Important things to learn Front and rear panel Front panel 1 2 Effect select knobs These knobs select the effect model used in each effect block. Effect block select switches (DRIVE-AMP, CABINET, MODULATION, PEDAL, AMBIENCE) Press these switches to turn each effect block on/off or to edit it. The switch LED will be lit (on), dark (off), or blinking (edit). Value LEDs These LEDs will light to indicate the value knobs that can be used for the selected effect model. From the left, they correspond to value knobs 1--5. Value knobs When editing, rotate these knobs to modify the value of the parameter assigned to each knob. From the left, these are value knobs 1--5. When not editing, these knobs control the parameters of the effect that is assigned to the DRIVE-AMP effect by the selected program. (Refer to p.12, "Quick editing for the DRIVE-AMP effect block.") Effect channel switch, channel LED This changes the effect channel of the currently selected program. The LEDs located above the switch will light correspondingly (channel A is green, channel B is red). Program switches, program LEDs These switches select programs. The program LEDs (1, 2, 3) located above the switches will light correspondingly. In Individual mode, these switches turn each effect on/off individually. Bank switch Each time this switch is pressed, the bank number will increase by one. The bank number will decrease by one if you simultaneously press the bank switch and program switch 3. Expression pedal This pedal controls the effect that is selected from the PEDAL effect block. 3 4 5 6 7 8 4 LCD and control panel 1 Name display This shows the program name, effect name, or parameter name, as appropriate for each operation. Edit icon This will light if the selected program has been edited. It will blink if the program is currently being edited. Phrase trainer icon This will blink when you are in Phrase Trainer mode. Metronome icon This will light when the metronome is on. It will blink while the metronome tempo or level is being adjusted. MASTER/VALUE display This shows the master level and parameter values. When the parameter value matches the value that is written in the program, the ORIG (original icon) will light. NR-PRG LEVEL switch Use this switch to adjust the amount of noise reduction or the level of each program. RENAME switch Use this switch to change the name of a program. Metronome LED This LED will blink in time with the metronome tempo. WRITE switch Use this switch to save an edited program. EXIT switch From any function, you can press this to return to Play mode. Cursor switches ( , ) Use these switches to select the parameter that you wish to edit, or when modifying the name of a program. MASTER/VALUE switches (v, w) Use these switches to change the master level or the value of a parameter. Pedal LED This indicates the on/off status and type of the pedal effect, and the recording status when the Sample & Play function is used. Bank number display This shows the bank number of the selected program. When a user program is selected, a decimal point "." located at the lower right of the bank number will light. 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 A B C D 5 1. Introduction 1. Introduction Rear panel 1 2 3 INPUT jack Connect your guitar to this jack. AUX IN jack (stereo mini 1/8th inch connector) Connect the output (AUX OUT: analog) of your audio device to this jack. OUTPUT jacks (L/MONO, R) Connect these jacks to your guitar amp or mixer etc. For mono connections, use the L/MONO jack. : PHONE jack (stereo mini) Connect a set of headphones to this jack. DC 9V Connect the included AC adapter ( ) here. When the adapter is connected, the power will automatically be turned on. Cable hook Fasten the cable of the AC adapter around this hook. When taking the cable off the hook, avoid pulling the cable with excessive force. 4 5 6 6 The modes of the AX1500G The AX1500G has three modes: Play mode, Individual mode, and Phrase Trainer mode. Play mode is the mode in which you can select a program and play it. When the power is first turned on, you will always be in this mode. You can select from a total of 96 programs that use high-quality effect models: 48 preset programs, and 48 user programs that allow you to freely edit the settings to create your own sounds. In addition, you can switch between effect channels A and B within each program. With the factory settings, the user programs contain the same data as the preset programs. In Phrase Trainer mode, a phrase from an audio device (ie., CD or DAT) connected to the AUX IN jack or a guitar connected to the INPUT jack can be recorded and looped (played back repeatedly). You can practice by playing along with the repeating loop. As you can fix the pitch and slow down the playback speed, the phrase trainer mode is convenient for learning or practicing difficult phrases. When you enter this mode, the MODULATION, PEDAL, and AMBIENCE effect blocks will automatically be turned off. In this mode it is not possible to switch programs or effect channels. Play mode á Select programs (48 preset, 48 user) á Select effect channnel á Edit the program Hold down the bank switch for one second Individual mode á Use the program switches to turn each effect block on/off á Select effect channnel á Edit the program Press the Hold down program switches 1 and 2 together for one second bank switch* Press either program switches 1 and 2 simultaneously* Phrase Trainer mode Record and play back a phrase from guitar or CD etc. * When you press the EXIT switch you will always return to Play mode. In Play mode and Individual mode, you can use the effect select knobs etc. to edit the effects, adjust the noise reduction and program level, and modify the program name etc. Effect channels of the AX1500G The AX1500G provides an effect channel switch that lets you switch between two effect channels (A and B) within each program. Each channel consists of a drive amp effect and a cabinet effect (see the diagram below). Channel A DRIVE-AMP CABINET A INPUT B DRIVE-AMP CABINET A MODULATION PEDAL AMBIENCE OUTPUT B Channel B This allows you to switch between rhythm and lead sounds within a single program as if you were changing the channel of a guitar amp, or to differentiate between sounds intended for direct output to a mixer using the cabinet effect or for output to your guitar amp. 7 1. Introduction Individual mode the mode in which you can use the foot switches (the program switches and expression pedal switch) to individually turn each effect block on/off as you play. In this mode you can switch between effect channels A and B, but cannot switch between programs. Use Play mode to select programs. 2. Playing the AX1500G 2. Playing the AX1500G Example connections The power must be off when you make connections. Unintentional operation may damage your speakers, or cause malfunctions. Play mode When you turn on the power, the AX1500G will always enter Play mode, and will be set to the program and master level setting that were last selected when the power was turned off. Adjusting the master level The MASTER/VALUE display will show the master level immediately after the power is turned on, a program is selected, and after the EXIT switch is pressed. When the master level is shown, you can use the MASTER/VALUE switches (v, w) to adjust the master level. 1. Connect your cables from the OUTPUT jacks of the AX1500G to your guitar amp or mixer etc. If you are using a mono connection, connect the L/ MONO jack. In order to take full advantage of the AX1500G's sound, we recommend that you use stereo connections. 2. If you wish to use headphones, plug them into the PHONE jack. The output from the OUTPUT jacks will be turned off when headphones are plugged in. Selecting a program You can select from 48 preset programs and 48 user programs. User and preset programs are each organized into 16 banks, with three programs in each bank. The currently selected bank is shown by the bank User number display, and the program is program shown by the program LEDs. To switch between user and preset programs, simultaneously press MASTER/VALUE Preset switch (v) and cursor switch (®). When a program user program is selected, a decimal point "." located at the lower right of the bank number display will light. To select a program in the same bank Press a program switch 1--3 to select the desired program. The program LED of the selected program will light, and the name display will indicate the program name. To select a program from a different bank Press the bank switch to select the desired bank. (The bank number display will blink.) The banks will cycle in the order 0, 1, 2, ...9, A, b, C, d, E, F, 0, 1, 2... · Each time you press the bank switch, the bank number display will increase by one. · Each time you simultaneously press the bank switch and program switch 3, the bank number display will decrease by one. When the desired bank number appears, press program switch 1,2 or 3 to select the desired program. (The bank number display will change from blinking to lit.) 3. Connect your guitar to the INPUT jack. 4. If you wish to use the AUX IN jack, connect an external audio device to it. Use the controls of the connected device to adjust the volume. 5. Connect the included AC adapter to the DC 9V jack, and plug the AC adapter into an AC outlet. When you plug it in, the power will come on automatically, and the name display will indicate the program name. Wrap the AC adapter cable around the cable hook. When removing the cable from the hook, be careful not to pull the cable with excessive force. 6. When you have finished making connections, turn on the power of your guitar amp or mixer etc. Play your guitar, and check whether connections have been made correctly. Adjust the master level of the AX1500G and the gain or fader controls of your guitar amp or mixer to set an appropriate volume level. Headphones Audio device Stereo-mini Guitar Guitar amp etc. Mono phone plug AUX IN Stereo-mini Included AC adapter DC9V OUTPUT mono INPUT Checking the effect blocks used by a program Not every program uses all of the effect blocks. When you select a program, the LED of each effect block that are used will light. The LEDs of effect blocks that are unused will be dark. 8 Switching between effect channels Each time you press the effect channel switch, effect channels A and B will alternate. When channel A is selected, the channel LED is lit green, and when channel B is selected, the LED is lit red. 1. Tune your guitar so that the desired note name appears in the bank number display. The decimal point "." at the lower right of the bank number display will light to indicate a sharp . Example display Effect channel hold When you switch programs, this setting lets you specify whether the channel memorized in the program will be selected (OFF) or whether the status prior to switching programs will be maintained (On). The factory setting is OFF. 1. Press and hold the EXIT switch, and press the effect channel switch so that the name display indicates "CH HOLD" and the MASTER/VALUE display indicates "OFF" or "On". 2. Continue holding the EXIT switch, and press the effect channel switch to change the setting between On and OFF. 3. Release the EXIT switch to return to Play mode. 2. Fine-tune your guitar so that only the center of the five value LED's is lit (or so that only the center of the name display is shown). Tuning discrepancy shown by the value LEDÕs and the name display Pitch is flat Pitch is sharp Correct tuning Value LEDÕs Name display Bypass and mute Bypass If you press and hold the program switch for 0.5 seconds, all effects will be bypassed. At this time, the program LED will blink, and the name display will indicate "BYPASS" for one second. To defeat bypass, press the program switch whose LED is blinking, or press any other program switch. You can turn this on/off by simultaneously pressing MASTER/VALUE switch (w) and cursor switch ( ). You can also turn it off by pressing the EXIT switch. When the power is turned off, the calibration setting you modify will be lost, and will automatically return to 440 Hz the next time the power is turned on. Metronome 1. When you simultaneously press the RENAME and EXIT switches, the metronome will start and the metronome icon will blink. 2. Use value knob 4 to adjust the tempo (range 40-- 208: shown in the MASTER/VALUE display). At this time, the metronome LED will blink in time with the tempo. 3. Use value knob 5 to adjust the volume of the metronome (range 0--10: shown in the MASTER/ VALUE display). 4. While the metronome is operating, simultaneously press the RENAME and EXIT switches to stop the metronome. Mute If you press and hold the program switch for 1.5 seconds or longer, the input sound (ie., guitar) from the INPUT will be muted. At this time, the program LED will blink more rapidly, and the name display will indicate "MUTE" for one second. To defeat mute, press the program switch whose LED is blinking, or press any other program switch. This can be turned on by simultaneously holding MASTER/VALUE switch (w) and cursor switch ( ) for one second, and off again by repeating this operation. It can also be turned off by pressing the EXIT switch. Auto tuner When the AX1500G is in bypass or mute, the tuner will operate automatically. If you mute the AX1500G you will be able to tune your instrument without producing sound. This is used for on stage tuning. Tempo Level On, Off If you switch programs or edit while the metronome is operating, it will no longer be possible to adjust the tempo or level. To re-adjust the tempo or level, you must first stop the metronome, and then start it once again. 9 2. Playing the AX1500G Changing the calibration setting If necessary, you can adjust the calibration in the range of 438--445 Hz. (440 Hz is "standard") When the tuner is operating, use the MASTER/VALUE switches (v, w) to adjust the setting. The calibration setting will appear in the MASTER/VALUE display. 2. Playing the AX1500G As an alternative to using value knobs 4 and 5, you can use the cursor switches ( , ) to switch parameters, and use the MASTER/VALUE switches (v, w) to adjust the parameter values. While the metronome is operating, pressing the EXIT switch will stop the metronome and return to Play mode. When the AX1500G is bypassed or muted, it will not be possible to adjust the tempo or level. Individual mode In this mode you can press the program switches and expression pedal switch to turn modulation, pedal, and ambience effect blocks on/off individually. As in Play mode, you can switch the effect channel, and use operations such as metronome, editing, and program write. In this mode it is not possible to switch programs or to select bypass or mute. Expression pedal You can use the expression pedal for realtime control of eleven types of effects in the pedal effect block. If the program uses an effect in the pedal effect block, the LED of pedal effect block will light. The pedal LED will light yellow for VOLUME effect, green for a VOX WAH--RING MOD modulation-type effect, or red for a HOLD DELAY--SAMPLE&PLAY ambience-type effect. For the HOLD DELAY, TAP TEMPO DELAY, and SAMPLE & PLAY pedal effects, the operation is different than for other effects (refer to p.21). Using the expression pedal as you play 1. In Play mode, select a program that uses the expression pedal. 2. Make sure that the pedal LED is lit. If it is not lit, press the expression pedal firmly once to make the pedal LED light (the pedal will be turned on). 3. Operate the expression pedal while playing your guitar. As you raise and lower the pedal, the output sound will change correspondingly. If Volume is selected in the PEDAL effect block, it will not be possible to turn the expression pedal on/off. It will remain on (pedal LED lit yellow). The on/off status of the expression pedal is not memorized by each program. Do not apply excessive force to the expression pedal. Before operating the expression pedal, verify the amount of force that is required to make the pedal LED light and to apply the effect. Entering Individual mode In Play mode press and hold the Bank switch for one second, and you will enter Individual mode. The name display will indicate "-INDIV-," and the bank number display will indicate " ." When you enter Individual mode, the program LED's will indicate the on/off status of each effect block (synchronized with the effect block LED's). MODULATION corresponds to program switch (LED) 1, AMBIENCE to 2, PEDAL to 3. Each time you press a program switch, it will turn on/ off. For the pedal effect, pressing the expression pedal firmly will turn it on/off (the switch is located under the pedal). However for some pedal effects such as SAMPLE & PLAY, the expression pedal is used in a special way, and cannot be turned off once the pedal has been turned on. For some effects, it is not possible to simultaneously use the MODULATION and PEDAL effect blocks, or the PEDAL and AMBIENCE effect blocks. If you attempt to simultaneously turn on both of these effect blocks, the effect block that was turned on first will automatically be turned off. Indication of currently used effect blocks Exiting Individual mode To return to Play mode, press either the bank switch or the EXIT switch. 10 Phrase Trainer mode You can record a phrase from an audio device (ie., CD or DAT) connected to the AUX IN jack or from a guitar connected to the INPUT jack, and loop it (i.e., play it back repeatedly). Then you can practice a phrase on your guitar while listening to the repeating phrase. Since you can slow down the playback speed without affecting the pitch, this is a convenient way to learn or practice phrases from recordings that are difficult to play. In Phrase Trainer mode, the effect expression pedal will automatically control the volume of the guitar. When you enter this mode, the MODULATION, PEDAL, and AMBIENCE effect blocks will automatically be turned off. (When you exit Phrase Trainer mode, the previous settings will be restored.) In this mode it is not possible to use Bypass or Mute, or to switch programs or effect channels. To re-do the recording Press program switch 1 ( ) to stop playback. Then continue with step "3. Begin recording" and step "4. Stop recording." To erase the recorded phrase The phrase will be erased when you press the EXIT switch to return to Play mode. You can also record a new phrase to overwrite the previously-recorded phrase. 5. Stop When you press program switch 1 ( ), playback will stop. Press program switch 1 ( ) once again, and playback will resume from where you stopped. · If effect channel switch ( ) is pressed while stopped, you will return to the beginning of the recorded phrase. · By pressing the cursor switches, you can playback in reverse ( ) or forward ( ) as long as you hold down the switch. 1. Enter Phrase Trainer mode From Play mode, simultaneously press and hold program switches 1 and 2 for one second. The MASTER/VALUE display will indicate the selected recording mode, and the Phrase Trainer icon will blink. 2. Select the recording mode Use the cursor switches ( , ) to select the input jack, and use the MASTER/VALUE switches (v, w) to select the recording time. Input jack "AUX" AUX IN jack "GTR" INPUT jack Recording time "SHT" maximum 8 seconds (high quality) "LNG" maximum 16 seconds (extended time) The phrase will be recorded and played back monaurally. 3. Begin recording Start the audio device that is connected to the AX1500G, and press the bank switch (REC) at the point where you wish to begin recording. The name display will indicate "REC" and the number of seconds of recording. Once you record a phrase, it is not possible to change the recording mode. If you wish to change the recording mode, you must return to Play mode, and once again enter Phrase Trainer mode. During recording or while stopped, press program ) to playback the recorded phrase as a switch 1 ( repeating loop. By pressing program switch 2 (SPEED) or the MASTER/VALUE switches (v, w), you can slow down the playback speed without affecting the pitch. · Each time you press program switch 2 (SPEED), the playback speed will cycle through settings of 100%, 75%, 50%, 25%... · By pressing the MASTER/VALUE switches (v, w), the speed can be adjusted in 5% steps; 100%, 95%, 90%, ... 25%. During playback, you can press cursor switch ( ) to playback at double speed as long as you continue pressing the switch. If you press cursor switch ( ), the recording will play back in reverse as long as you continue pressing the switch. If you press effect channel switch ( ), the recording will rewind as long as you continue pressing the switch. 7. Hold By pressing program switch 3 (HOLD), you can hold the sound that was playing at the moment the switch was pressed. When you press the switch once again, hold will be turned off. By pressing a cursor switch while the sound is being held, you can playback backward ( ) or forward ( ) as long as you continue holding the switch. If you press effect channel switch ( ), you will go back one second, cancel Hold, and begin playback. 4. Stop recording At the point where you wish to stop recording, press program switch 1 ( ) or the bank switch (REC). Recording will end, and the name display will indicate "PLAY." The recorded phrase will automatically begin playing repeatedly as a loop. Recording will also end automatically if you continue recording for the maximum time length of the selected recording mode. Depending on the volume of the connected audio device, the sound may be distorted. If this occurs, adjust the volume on the audio device. If the "AUX" input jack is used, the sound from the INPUT jack will be muted until recording ends. Exiting Phrase Trainer mode To return to Play mode, you can either press program switches 1 and 2 simultaneously, or press the EXIT switch. When you exit Phrase Trainer mode or turn off the power, the recorded phrase will be erased. 11 2. Playing the AX1500G 6. Playback 3. Editing 3. Editing In Play mode and Individual mode, you can edit each effect, set noise reduction and program levels, and modify the program name. During editing, the edit icon in the display will blink. 5. Rotate the knobs and the sound will change. The name display will indicate the name of the parameter assigned to that knob, and the MASTER/VALUE display will indicate the value. At this time, the "ORIG" icon will light when the position of the knob matches the original value -- i.e., the value before you began editing. Instead of the five value knobs, you can also use the cursor switches( , ) to select parameters, and use the MASTER/VALUE switches (v, w) to adjust the value of the parameter currently shown in the name display. Edit icon The parameter assigned to the knob you moved Value of the parameter In Phrase Trainer mode, it is possible to edit the DRIVEAMP and CABINET effect blocks, but it is not possible to perform editing operations that use the name display, MASTER/VALUE display, the cursor switches or the MASTER/VALUE switches. In addition, it is not possible to switch programs or effect channels. Editing effects Rotate the effect select knob of the effect block that you wish to edit, or press the corresponding effect block select switch. The effect block LED will begin blinking, indicating that it has been selected for editing. Each program has two channels of settings (A and B) for the drive amp and cabinet effects. Press the effect channel switch to select the channel you wish to edit. Use the effect select knob, effect block select switch, and value knobs to edit the settings. If you wish to save the edited effect, perform the "Program write" operation. If you fail to do this, the effect program will revert to its original settings when you turn off the power or select a different program. If you do not wish to use the DRIVE-AMP effect block, press the DRIVE-AMP effect block select switch until the LED goes dark. The DRIVE-AMP effect block is now bypassed, and the name display will indicate "-OFF-." The cabinet effect can be edited in the same way as the drive amp effect. Since the modulation, pedal, and ambience effects do not have separate effect channels, begin from step 2 of "Editing example." For some effects, it is not possible to simultaneously use the MODULATION and PEDAL effect blocks, or the PEDAL and AMBIENCE effect blocks. If you attempt to turn on both effect blocks, the block that had been turned on first will automatically be turned off. Quick Editing for the DRIVE-AMP effect block In the default state of each mode, the DRIVE-AMP effect block parameters used by the selected program are assigned to the value knobs (except when the effect is off). When you rotate each value knob, the AX1500G will enter edit mode (the effect program switch LED and the edit icon will blink). The name display will show the parameter name, the MASTER/VALUE display will show the parameter value, and the sound will change. If you wish to change an effect that is in use, use the effect select knobs to select the desired effect. It is not possible to edit when other functions are assigned to the value knobs, when the AX1500G is bypassed, muted, or recording in Phrase Trainer mode. Editing example As an example, we will explain how to select TUBE OD as the drive amp effect for channel B. 1. Press the effect channel switch to select channel B (the channel LED will light red). 2. If the name display indicated "TUBE OD" when you pressed the effect block select switch(DRIVEAMP), simply continue. If not, turn the DRIVEAMP effect select knob to the TUBE OD position. If the effect select knob was already located at TUBE OD, first select a different effect model, and then turn the knob back to TUBE OD. 3. The effect block LED will begin blinking, indicating that it has been selected for editing. (The name display will indicate the model name as "TUBE OD.") If you selected a programmed effect, the "ORIG" icon will light. 4. The five value LED's will light, and the corresponding value knobs will be assigned to DRIVE, LEVEL, TREBLE, MIDDLE, and BASS respectively, and will function as knobs that adjust the value of each parameter. (Refer to p.16, "Effect parameters.") 12 Setting the noise reduction and program levels 1. If you are in Play mode, press the NR-PRG LEVEL switch. 2. By rotating value knobs 1 or 2, or pressing the NRPRG LEVEL switch, you can access the screen displays for adjusting the noise reduction and setting the level for each program. 3. To adjust the amount of noise reduction, use value knob 1 (range OFF...10: shown in the MASTER/ VALUE display). 4. To adjust the level of each program, use value knob 2 (range 0...10: shown in the MASTER/VALUE display). You can also use the MASTER/VALUE switches to change the character. If you wish to save the modified program name, you must perform the "Program write" operation. If you turn off the power or select a different program without writing the program, the program name you edited will revert to its previous setting. Writing programs Here's how to write an edited program. 1. Press the WRITE switch, and the name display will indicate "WRITE." The bank number display and the program LED will blink. 2. Use the MASTER/VALUE switches (v,w) to select the writing destination bank, and use the cursor switches ( , ) to select the writing destination program. 3. Press the WRITE switch once again, and the display will read "COMPLT" to indicate that the program has been written. You will then return to Play mode. You can also use value knob 5 or the bank switches to select the bank, and the program switches to select the program. Noise reduction Level Instead of value knobs 1 and 2, you can also use the cursor switches ( , ) to select a parameter and use the MASTER/VALUE switches to adjust the value of the parameter. Depending on the guitar that you use, raising the noise reduction setting too high may cause the sound to be cut off at low levels. The volume of each program will change depending on the guitar that you use. Adjust the program level for your guitar. If you wish to save the noise reduction and program level settings that you edited, you must perform the "Program write" operation. If you turn off the power or select a different program without writing the program, the program you modified will revert to its previous settings. If you decide not to write, press the EXIT switch to cancel the Write operation. Select the bank Select the program Select the program Select the bank Modifying program names Press the RENAME switch and specify the program name (maximum 7 characters). Use the cursor switches ( , ) to select the character that you wish to change (the character will blink). Then use value knob 5 to select the desired character. The available characters are shown below. If you write an edited program to a different program number, the program that was overwritten will be lost. It is not possible to write to a preset program. Available characters Select characters Move between character positions 13 3. Editing 4. Appendices 4. Appendices Adjusting the expression pedal (Calibration) If you find the expression pedal difficult to use, perform this procedure so that the pedal will function optimally. For example if the effect does not reach maximum when the pedal is advanced all the way forward, or does not reach minimum when the pedal is returned all the way back, use the following procedure to make the appropriate adjustments. When making adjustments, use your hand to move the pedal. Accurate calibration may not be possible if you use your foot to operate the pedal. If you make a mistake during the calibration procedure, the LCD will indicate "ERROR," and you will return to the screen before the adjustment (the "MIN" display). If the "ERROR" display appears for repeated attempts, a malfunction may have occurred. In this case, please contact your dealer. Restoring the user programs to the factory settings (Reload) 1. Turn on the power while simultaneously holding down the EXIT switch and the bank switch. The name display will indicate "RELOAD?" If you press the EXIT switch, the reload operation will not occur; the power-on display will appear, and you will enter Play mode. 1. Turn on the power while simultaneously holding down the EXIT switch and the PEDAL effect block select switch.The name display will show "PEDAL" for approximately one second, and will then indicate "MIN." 2. Press the WRITE switch. The name display will change to "RELOAD," and the reload operation will begin. When the reload operation is completed, the display will indicate "COMPLT" for approximately one second. Then the power-on display will appear, and you will enter Play mode. Never turn off the power during the reload operation. WARNING: When you perform the reload operation, all user programs will be rewritten. Master level, metronome, and input level settings will also be initialized. Turn on the power while simultaneously holding down 2. Slowly return the pedal to the full back position. When it stops, release your hand and press the WRITE switch. The name display will change from "MIN" to "MAX." If you decide to halt the adjustment procedure, press the EXIT switch. The power-on display will appear, and you will enter Play mode. 3. Slowly advance the pedal. When it stops, release your hand and press the WRITE switch. 2. Press slowly 3. Press slowly The LCD display will indicate "COMPLT" for approximately one second. Then the power-on display will appear, and you will enter Play mode. After the adjustment procedure has been completed, verify the operation of the pedal. Select an effect that will make it easy to verify the adjustment. For example, set the pedal effect block to the VOLUME effect, set the value to 0, and check the MIN level when the pedal is returned all the way back. 14 Troubleshooting If you suspect a malfunction, please check the following points first. If this does not resolve the problem, contact a nearby dealer. 1. Power does not turn on ·Is the AC adapter plugged into an AC outlet? (p.8) ·Is the included AC adapter connected? (p.6, 8) 2. No sound ·Are your guitar, amp, and headphones connected to the correct jack? (p.6, 8) ·Is the power of your amp turned on, and is it set accordingly? ·Is one of your cables broken? ·Is the master level of the AX1500G set to "0" or to a low value? (p.8) ·Is the program level of the AX1500G set to "0" or to a low value? (p.13) ·Is the LEVEL of the DRIVE-AMP effect set to "0" or to a low value? (p.12) ·Is the volume of your guitar turned down? ·Is the AX1500G muted? ·If VOLUME is selected for the PEDAL effect, has the pedal been returned to the full back position? 3. Effects are not applied ·Is the AX1500G bypassed? (p.9) ·Are the effects used by the program turned on? (p.4, 8) 4. Metronome does not function ·Are you in Play mode or in Individual mode? The metronome will not function in Phrase Trainer mode. ·Is the metronome output level set to "0"? (p.9) 5. Pedal does not function ·Have you selected a program that uses an effect in the PEDAL effect block? (p.8) ·Is the pedal LED lit? (p.10) ·Try adjusting (calibrating) the expression pedal. (p.14) Main specifications · Number of effects: 56 types (maximum number of effects usable simultaneously: 8) · Number of programs: 96 (48 preset, 48 user) · Inputs: Guitar input (mono phone jack) AUX IN (stereo mini jack) · Outputs: Output x 2 (mono phone jack) Headphones (stereo mini jack) · Tuner section Detection range: 27.5 Hz -- 2,093 Hz (A0--C7) Calibration: A=438--445 Hz · Metronome section Tempo: bpm= 40--208 · Power supply: DC9V (included AC adapter · Dimensions: 420 (W) x 187.7 (D) x 65.4 (H) mm 16.5 (W) x 7.4 (D) x 2.6 (H) inches · Weight: 2.4kg (5.3 lbs) · Included items: Owner's manual, AC adapter * Specifications and appearance are subject to change with out notice for improvement. ) 15 4. Appendices 6. Cannot write (the name display indicates "ERROR") ·Reload the preset programs. (p.14) 4. Appendices Effect parameters DRIVE-AMP effects block These effect models consist of effects plus a three-band equalizer. DRIVE-AMP ACOUSTIC CLASSIC COMP TUBE OD CLASSIC DIST FAT DIST METAL DIST SEATTLE BIG FUZZ TOP BOOST US HI-GAIN BRIT STACK Knob 1 DRIVE 1...10 OFF...10 1...10 1...10 1...10 1...10 1...10 1...10 1...10 1...10 1...10 Knob 2 LEVEL 0...10 0...10 0...10 0...10 0...10 0...10 0...10 0...10 0...10 0...10 0...10 Knob 3 TREBLE 0...10 0...10 0...10 0...10 0...10 0...10 0...10 0...10 0...10 0...10 0...10 Knob 4 MIDDLE 0...10 0...10 0...10 0...10 0...10 0...10 0...10 0...10 0...10 0...10 0...10 Knob 5 BASS 0...10 0...10 0...10 0...10 0...10 0...10 0...10 0...10 0...10 0...10 0...10 Acoustic simulator This is an effect model that converts the sound of an electric guitar to that of an acoustic guitar. ACOUSTIC "ACOUSTIC" A more realistic simulation of an acoustic guitar will be produced if you use the neck pickup. A compressor with adjustable sensitivity is built-in. If the sound distorts, slightly decrease the LEVEL, TREBLE, MIDDLE, and BASS. Knob 1 DRIVE Knob 2 LEVEL Knob 3 TREBLE Knob 4 MIDDLE Knob 5 BASS Adjusts compressor sensitivity. Adjusts output level. Adjusts treble (high-frequency range). Adjusts mid (mid-frequency range). Adjusts bass (low-frequency range). Overdrive, Distortion, Fuzz, Amp The effect model offers a wide variety of classic sounds. TUBE OD "TUBE OD" This model simulates the overdriven sound of a popular tube overdrive pedal from the 70's that responds well to the nuances of your picking. CLASSIC DIST "CL DIST" This model simulates a poular distortion pedal from the 70's. FAT DIST "FATDIST" This model simulates a popular fat sounding disortion pedal from the 80's. METAL DIST "MTLDIST" This model simulates the metallic distortion of the 90's. SEATTLE "SEATTLE" This model is ideal for grunge rock sounds. BIG FUZZ "BIGFUZZ" The most popular fuzz of the 60's. TOP BOOST "TOP BST" This model simulates the sound of an AC30 overdriven by a popular 80's OD pedal. US HI-GAIN "US HI-G" This model simulates the distortion typical of a high-gain amp made in the USA. BRIT STACK "BRTSTK" This model simulates the distortion typical of a British amp stack. Knob 1 DRIVE Knob 2 LEVEL Knob 3 TREBLE Knob 4 MIDDLE Knob 5 BASS Adjusts amount of distortion. Adjusts output level. Adjusts treble (high-frequency range). Adjusts mid (mid-frequency range). Adjusts bass (low-frequency range). Compressor A compressor boosts quiet sounds and decreases loud sounds to even out differences in volume, in order to make the dynamics more consistent. CLASSIC COMP "CL COMP" This compressor makes your playing dynamics more consistent, and produces a smooth sustain. If you turn the DRIVE "OFF," the compressor will be defeated, and you can use this as a tone controller. If the sound distorts, slightly decrease the LEVEL, TREBLE, MIDDLE, and BASS. Knob 1 DRIVE Knob 2 LEVEL Knob 3 TREBLE Knob 4 MIDDLE Knob 5 BASS Adjusts sensitivity. Adjusts output level. Adjusts treble (high-frequency range). Adjusts mid (mid-frequency range). Adjusts bass (low-frequency range). 16 CABINET effect block The shape of the cabinet and the type and number of speakers are very important elements in determining the tonal character of a guitar amp. The CABINET effect block provides models that faithfully simulate the cabinet and speaker characteristics of a variety of guitar amps, from vintage to modern. Although these models are especially effective when you are plugged in to a mixer etc. via a direct line connection, they are also effective when you are using a guitar amp. CABINET 1x8 TWEED 1x12 TWEED 1x12 BLACK PANEL 1x12 AC15 2x12 BLACK PANEL 2x12 AC30 2x12 CLASS A 4x10 TWEED 4x12 CLASSIC 4x12 VINTAGE 4x12 MODERN Knob 1 AIR AP, 0.3...9.7, Ln AP, 0.3...9.7, Ln AP, 0.3...9.7, Ln AP, 0.3...9.7, Ln AP, 0.3...9.7, Ln AP, 0.3...9.7, Ln AP, 0.3...9.7, Ln AP, 0.3...9.7, Ln AP, 0.3...9.7, Ln AP, 0.3...9.7, Ln AP, 0.3...9.7, Ln Knob 2 LEVEL 1...10 1...10 1...10 1...10 1...10 1...10 1...10 1...10 1...10 1...10 1...10 Knob 1 AIR Knob 3 PRESENCE 0...10 0...10 0...10 0...10 0...10 0...10 0...10 0...10 0...10 0...10 0...10 Knob 4 Knob 5 1x8 TWEED "1­8 TWD" This model simulates an open back cabinet with one 8-inch speaker. 1x12 TWEED "1-12 TWD" This model simulates an open back cabinet with one 12-inch speaker typically used for blues. 1x12 BLACK PANEL "1-12 BLK" This model simulates an American open back cabinet with one 12-inch speaker and a bright tonal character. 1x12 AC15 "1-12AC15" This model simulates a Vox open back cabinet with one 12-inch "Blue" speaker. 2x12 BLACK PANEL "2-12 BLK" This model simulates an American open back cabinet with two 12-inch speakers. 2x12 AC30 "2-12AC30" This model simulates a Vox open back cabinet with two 12inch "Blue" speakers. 2x12 CLASS A "2-12 CLA" This model simulates a modern open back cabinet with two 12inch speakers. 4x10 TWEED "4-10 TWD" This simulates an open back cabinet with four 10-inch speakers. 4x12 CLASSIC "4-12 CLS" This simulates a closed back cabinet with four 25W 12-inch speakers. 4x12 VINTAGE "4-12 VIN" This simulates a closed back cabinet with four 30W 12-inch speakers. 4x12 MODERN "4-12 MDN" This simulates a closed back cabinet with four 75W 12-inch speakers. This simulates the resonance of the cabinet, and the comb filtering effect produced by interference between the speakers. Decreasing this value will produce a sound that is more suitable for connection to a guitar amp. Increasing this value will produce a sound that is more suitable for direct-line connection. Knob 2 LEVEL Adjusts output level. Knob 3 PRESENCE Adjusts tone of the high-frequency range. If the sound distorts, slightly lower the LEVEL and PRESENCE. 17 4. Appendices 4. Appendices MODULATION effect block MODULATION CLASSIC CHORUS STEREO CHORUS CLASSIC FLANGER MOD DELAY BLACK PHASER ORANGE PHASER TEXTREM PITCH SHIFTER FILTRON AUTO WAH OCTAVE Knob 1 TIME -- 1...10 1...10 0.5...900[ms] -- -- -- 0...900[ms] 1...10 1...10 -- Knob 2 FEEDBACK -- -- 0...10 0...10 0...10 0...10 -- 0...10 0...10 -- -- Knob 3 Knob 4 SPEED/PITCH DEPTH/FINE 0.1...10[Hz] 0...10 0.1...10[Hz] 0...10 0.1...10[Hz] 0...10 0.1...10[Hz] 0...10 0.1...10[Hz] -- 0.1...10[Hz] -- 1...10[Hz] 0...10 ­24...24[x100 CENT] ­15...15[CENT] -- 0...10 -- 0...10 -- 0...10 Knob 5 MIX/POLARITY 1, 2 -- -- 0...10 -- -- -- 0...10 up, dn up, dn 0...10 Chorus, Flanger Chorus and flanger are effects that delay the sound slightly to modulate the pitch, and combine the modulated sound with the original to produce a sensation of modulated spaciousness. CLASSIC CHORUS "CL CHOR" This simulates the very first vintage chorus unit. For the best results, use it in stereo . Knob 3 SPEED Knob 4 DEPTH Knob 5 MIX Adjusts speed. Adjusts depth. 1: Use for mono output. 2: Use for stereo output. MOD DELAY "MOD DLY" This effect modulates the delay time to produce chorus and flanger-like effects. Adding a small amount of depth with longer delay settings gives you a very effective modulated echo sound. Knob 1 TIME Adjusts delay time. Knob 2 FEEDBACK Adjusts feedback. Knob 3 SPEED Adjusts speed. Knob 4 DEPTH Knob 5 MIX Adjusts depth. Adjust the mix amount of effect sound. Phaser This effect cyclically modifies the phase shift of the sound, and mixes the phase-shifted sound with the original sound to produce modulation. The phased sound will become milder as the number of stages is increased. BLACK PHASER "BL PHAS" This is a popular four-stage vintage phaser. ORANGE PHASER "OR PHAS" This is a ten-stage vintage phaser that produces a milder effect. Knob 2 FEEDBACK Adjusts the degree of character. Knob 3 SPEED Adjusts the speed of modulation. STEREO CHORUS "ST CHOR" This simulates a vintage stereo chorus unit that inverts the phase of the effect sound between left and right channels to make the sound more spacious. Adjusting the three knobs can produce a wide variety of results. Knob 1 TIME Knob 2 ------ Knob 3 SPEED Knob 4 DEPTH Adjusts delay time. -------- Adjusts speed. Adjusts depth. If this knob is placed in the "10" position, the TIME knob will have no effect. CLASSIC FLANGER "CL FLAN" This is a vintage flanger with rich tone. The settings can also be adjusted to produce chorus or vibrato-like effects. Knob 1 TIME Adjusts the delay time. This controls the bandwidth over which the effect is applied. As this setting approaches 0, modulation will occur at a higher pitch. Knob 2 FEEDBACK Adjusts the strength of the tonal character. To produce a jet airplane-like sound, increase to desired level. Knob 3 SPEED Knob 4 DEPTH Adjusts speed. Adjusts depth. If this knob is placed in the "10" position, the TIME knob will have no effect. Tremolo This modulates the volume to add depth to the sound. TEXTREM "TEXTREM" This effect model simulates the tremolo built into a guitar amp. Knob 3 SPEED Knob 4 DEPTH Adjusts speed. Adjusts depth. 18 Pitch shifter This effect modifies the pitch. PITCH SHIFTER "PITCH" This pitch shifter can be adjusted over a +/- 2 octave range. Knob 1 TIME Adjusts delay time. Knob 2 FEEDBACK Adjusts amount of feedback (delay repeats). Knob 3 PITCH Knob 4 FINE Knob 5 MIX Adjusts amount of pitch change. Fine adjustment for the amount of pitch change. Adjusts the mix amount of effect sound. Auto wah This is an auto-wah filter that automatically opens and closes according to the attack with which you play your guitar. The effect will vary depending on the guitars volume setting. FILTRON "FILTRON" This is a low-pass filter type auto-wah. Knob 1 TIME Adjusts the speed at which the wah will rise in response to your picking. Knob 2 FEEDBACK Adjusts the peak of the wah sound. Knob 3 ------ Knob 4 DEPTH -------- Adjusts the sensitivity with which the wah will respond to your picking. Knob 5 POLARITY Specifies the direction in which the wah will operate. AUTO WAH "AUTOWAH" This is a band-pass filter type auto-wah that is equivalent to a pedal wah. It is placed before the DRIVE-AMP effect block. Knob 1 TIME Knob 2 ------ Knob 3 ------ Knob 4 DEPTH Adjusts the speed at which the wah will rise in response to your picking. -------- -------- Adjusts the sensitivity with which the wah will respond to your picking. Knob 5 POLARITY Specifies the direction in which the wah will operate. Octave This generates a pitch one octave lower than the original sound, and mixes it with the original sound to add a sense of depth and low end. This effect may not operate correctly if two or more strings are played simultaneously, or when low-pitched strings are played. OCTAVE Knob 4 DEPTH Knob 5 MIX "OCTAVE" Adjusts the amount of the ultra-low pitch (one octave below). Adjusts the amount of the original sound. 19 4. Appendices 4. Appendices PEDAL effect block These effect models let you use the expression pedal to control the effect in realtime. They include a volume pedal, modulationtype effects such as VOX WAH--RING MOD, and ambiencetype effects such as HOLD DELAY--SAMPLE&PLAY. VOX WAH--RING MOD cannot be used simultaneously with the MODULATION effect block. Nor is it possible to use HOLD DELAY--SAMPLE&PLAY simultaneously with the AMBIENCE effect block. Knob 2 Knob 3 Knob 4 Knob 5 FEEDBACK/ BOTTOM/SPEED/ LEVEL/MIX/ TOP/TIME CENTER/REVERSE PITCH/TONE DEPTH/FINE POLARITY VOLUME -- -- -- -- 0...10 VOX WAH -- -- -- -- -- TRAVELER -- 0...10 -- -- 0...10 TALK A, E, I, O, U A, E, I, O, U A, E, I, O, U -- -- CHORUS/FLANGER 1...10 0...10 0.1...10 0...10 -- U-VIBE -- -- -- 0...10 1, 2 PITCH BEND 0...900[ms] 0...10 ­24...24[x100 CENT] ­15...15[CENT] 0...10 RING MOD -- -- 1...10 -- -- HOLD DELAY 0[ms]...3[SEC] 0...10 1...10 -- 0...10 TAP DELAY 0[ms]...3[SEC] 0...10 1...10 -- 0...10 SAMPLE&PLAY 0.5...8[SEC] OFF, 1, 2...8, LP1, LP2 -- -- 0...10 PEDAL Knob 1 Volume This is a volume pedal. VOLUME Knob 5 LEVEL "VOLUME" Adjust the minimum level for when the pedal is in the full back position. Chorus/Flanger This is a chorus/flanger effect that uses the pedal to control the mix amount of the effect. If you use this effect in a program where the MODULATION effect block is on, the MODULATION effect block will automatically be turned off. CHORUS/FLANGER "CH/FLAN" Knob 1 TIME Adjusts delay time. Knob 2 FEEDBACK Adjusts amount of feedback (delay repeats). Knob 3 SPEED Knob 4 DEPTH Adjusts pitch modulation speed. Adjusts pitch modulation depth. Pedal wah, Traveler, Talking pedal These are wah (filter) effects that use the pedal to control the frequency response. If you use this effect in a program where the MODULATION effect block is turned on, the MODULATION effect block will automatically be turned off. VOX WAH "WAH" This simulates a vintage wah pedal. There are no adjustable parameters. It is placed ahead of the DRIVE-AMP effect block. TRAVELER "TRAVEL" This is a low-pass filter type wah modeled after a vintage Korg effect pedal. Knob 1 ------ -------- Knob 2 FEEDBACK Adjusts the peak amount of the filter. Knob 3 ------ Knob 4 ------ Knob 5 LEVEL -------- -------- Adjusts the output level. U-Vibe This simulates a vintage vibrato/rotary speaker simulator. If you use this effect in a program where the MODULATION effect block is on, the MODULATION effect block will automatically be turned off. U-VIBE "U-VIBE" Adjusts depth of the effect. 0: Mixes the original sound with the effected sound (Chorus mode) 1: Output only the effect sound (Vibrato mode) Knob 4 DEPTH Knob 5 MODE TALK "TALK" This adds vocal type effects to your guitar. Knob 1 TOP Knob 2 CENTER Knob 3 BOTTOM Select the vowel sound produced when the pedal is fully forward. Select the vowel sound produced when the pedal is in the halfway position. Select the vowel sound produced when the pedal is fully backward. * Vowel sounds -- A, E, I, O, U 20