User manual ROLAND ME-50

Owner's Manual Thank you, and congratulations on your choice of the BOSS ME-50 Guitar Multiple Effects. Before using this unit, carefully read the sections entitled: "USING THE UNIT SAFELY" (page 2­3) and "IMPORTANT NOTES" (page 4). These sections provide important information concerning the proper operation of the unit. Additionally, in order to feel assured that you have gained a good grasp of every feature provided by your new unit, owner's manual should be read in its entirety. The manual should be saved and kept on hand as a convenient reference. Main features Simple Operation--Works Like a Compact Effects Processor Each effect is controlled with a dedicated knob. Intuitive operation, similar to that of compact effects processors, lets you make changes to tones directly. Multi-Function Expression Pedal The ME-50 is equipped with an expression pedal that gives you control over six different specialized pedal effects. It can also be switched for use as a volume pedal. Powerful COSM Drive Sound Roland's original "COSM" modeling technology lets you perform with a wide variety of powerful distortion effects, from classic vintage sounds, to original distortion sounds. COSM (Composite Object Sound Modeling) Composite Object Sound Modeling (COSM) is Roland's innovative and powerful sound modeling technology. COSM analyzes the many factors that make up the original sound, such as the electrical and physical characteristics of the original, and then produces a digital model that can reproduce the same sound. Memory Function You can store up to 30 original tones you have created. You can also use the pedals in "Memory mode" to call up stored tones instantly. AUX IN Jack The AUX IN jack makes it easy to practice along with CDs, MDs, and other input. Battery-Powered Operation The ME-50 can be powered in two ways, with (6) AA batteries or by using the AC adaptor (optional). Copyright © 2002 BOSS CORPORATION All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the written permission of BOSS CORPORATION. USING THE UNIT SAFELY Used for instructions intended to alert the user to the risk of death or severe injury should the unit be used improperly. Used for instructions intended to alert the user to the risk of injury or material damage should the unit be used improperly. * Material damage refers other adverse effects respect to the home furnishings, as well animals or pets. to damage or caused with and all its to domestic The symbol alerts the user to important instructions or warnings.The specific meaning of the symbol is determined by the design contained within the triangle. In the case of the symbol at left, it is used for general cautions, warnings, or alerts to danger. The symbol alerts the user to items that must never be carried out (are forbidden). The specific thing that must not be done is indicated by the design contained within the circle. In the case of the symbol at left, it means that the unit must never be disassembled. The symbol alerts the user to things that must be carried out. The specific thing that must be done is indicated by the design contained within the circle. In the case of the symbol at left, it means that the powercord plug must be unplugged from the outlet. 001 009 · Before using this unit, make sure to read the instructions below, and the Owner's Manual. .......................................................................................................... 002c · Do not open (or modify in any way) the unit or its AC adaptor. .......................................................................................................... 003 · Do not excessively twist or bend the power cord, nor place heavy objects on it. Doing so can damage the cord, producing severed elements and short circuits. Damaged cords are fire and shock hazards! .......................................................................................................... 010 · Do not attempt to repair the unit, or replace parts within it (except when this manual provides specific instructions directing you to do so). Refer all servicing to your retailer, the nearest Roland Service Center, or an authorized Roland distributor, as listed on the "Information" page. .......................................................................................................... 004 · Never use or store the unit in places that are: · Subject to temperature extremes (e.g., direct sunlight in an enclosed vehicle, near a heating duct, on top of heat-generating equipment); or are · Damp (e.g., baths, washrooms, on wet floors); or are · Humid; or are · Exposed to rain; or are · Dusty; or are · Subject to high levels of vibration. .......................................................................................................... 007 · This unit, either alone or in combination with an amplifier and headphones or speakers, may be capable of producing sound levels that could cause permanent hearing loss. Do not operate for a long period of time at a high volume level, or at a level that is uncomfortable. If you experience any hearing loss or ringing in the ears, you should immediately stop using the unit, and consult an audiologist. .......................................................................................................... 011 · Do not allow any objects (e.g., flammable material, coins, pins); or liquids of any kind (water, soft drinks, etc.) to penetrate the unit. .......................................................................................................... 012c · Immediately turn the power off, remove the AC adaptor from the outlet, and request servicing by your retailer, the nearest Roland Service Center, or an authorized Roland distributor, as listed on the "Information" page when: · The AC adaptor or the power-supply cord has been damaged; or · If smoke or unusual odor occurs · Objects have fallen into, or liquid has been spilled onto the unit; or · The unit has been exposed to rain (or otherwise has become wet); or · The unit does not appear to operate normally or exhibits a marked change in performance. .......................................................................................................... · Make sure you always have the unit placed so it is level and sure to remain stable. Never place it on stands that could wobble, or on inclined surfaces. .......................................................................................................... 008b · Use only the specified AC adaptor (PSA series), and make sure the line voltage at the installation matches the input voltage specified on the AC adaptor's body. Other AC adaptors may use a different polarity, or be designed for a different voltage, so their use could result in damage, malfunction, or electric shock. .......................................................................................................... 2 013 107d · In households with small children, an adult should provide supervision until the child is capable of following all the rules essential for the safe operation of the unit. .......................................................................................................... 014 · Never handle the AC adaptor body, or its output plugs, with wet hands when plugging into, or unplugging from, an outlet or this unit. .......................................................................................................... 108b · Protect the unit from strong impact. (Do not drop it!) .......................................................................................................... 015 · Before moving the unit, disconnect the AC adaptor and all cords coming from external devices. .......................................................................................................... 109b · Do not force the unit's power-supply cord to share an outlet with an unreasonable number of other devices. Be especially careful when using extension cords--the total power used by all devices you have connected to the extension cord's outlet must never exceed the power rating (watts/amperes) for the extension cord. Excessive loads can cause the insulation on the cord to heat up and eventually melt through. .......................................................................................................... 016 · Before cleaning the unit, turn off the power and unplug the AC adaptor from the outlet. .......................................................................................................... 110b · Whenever you suspect the possibility of lightning in your area, disconnect the AC adaptor from the outlet. .......................................................................................................... 111 · Before using the unit in a foreign country, consult with your retailer, the nearest Roland Service Center, or an authorized Roland distributor, as listed on the "Information" sheet. .......................................................................................................... 019 · If used improperly, batteries may explode or leak and cause damage or injury. In the interest of safety, please read and observe the following precautions (p. 6). 1 · Carefully follow the installation instructions for batteries, and make sure you observe the correct polarity. 2 · Batteries must never be recharged, heated, taken apart, or thrown into fire or water. · Avoid using new batteries together with used ones. In addition, avoid mixing different types of batteries. 3 .......................................................................................................... 5 · Remove the batteries whenever the unit is to remain unused for an extended period of time. · If a battery has leaked, use a soft piece of cloth or paper towel to wipe all remnants of the discharge from the battery compartment. Then install new batteries. To avoid inflammation of the skin, make sure that none of the battery discharge gets onto your hands or skin. Exercise the utmost caution so that none of the discharge gets near your eyes. Immediately rinse the affected area with running water if any of the discharge has entered the eyes. 6 101b · The unit and the AC adaptor should be located so their location or position does not interfere with their proper ventilation. .......................................................................................................... 102d · Always grasp only the output plug or the body of the AC adaptor when plugging into, or unplugging from, this unit or an outlet. .......................................................................................................... 103b · Any accumulation of dust between the AC adaptor and the power outlet can result in poor insulation and lead to fire. Periodically wipe away such dust with a dry cloth. Also, disconnect the power plug from the power outlet whenever the unit is to remain unused for an extended period of time. .......................................................................................................... 104 · Never keep batteries together with metallic objects such as ballpoint pens, necklaces, hairpins, etc. .......................................................................................................... 112 · Used batteries must be disposed of in compliance with whatever regulations for their safe disposal that may be observed in the region in which you live. .......................................................................................................... · Try to prevent cords and cables from becoming entangled. Also, all cords and cables should be placed so they are out of the reach of children. .......................................................................................................... 106 · Never climb on top of, nor place heavy objects on the unit. .......................................................................................................... 3 IMPORTANT NOTES 291a In addition to the items listed under "USING THE UNIT SAFELY" on page 2­3, please read and observe the following: Power Supply: Use of Batteries 301 Maintenance 401a · Do not use this unit on the same power circuit with any device that will generate line noise (such as an electric motor or variable lighting system). 302 · The AC adaptor will begin to generate heat after long hours of consecutive use. This is normal, and is not a cause for concern. 303a · For everyday cleaning wipe the unit with a soft, dry cloth or one that has been slightly dampened with water. To remove stubborn dirt, use a cloth impregnated with a mild, non-abrasive detergent. Afterwards, be sure to wipe the unit thoroughly with a soft, dry cloth. 402 · The use of an AC adaptor is recommended as the unit's power consumption is relatively high. Should you prefer to use batteries, please use the alkaline type. 304a · Never use benzine, thinners, alcohol or solvents of any kind, to avoid the possibility of discoloration and/or deformation. · When installing or replacing batteries, always turn off the power on this unit and disconnect any other devices you may have connected. This way, you can prevent malfunction and/or damage to speakers or other devices. 306b Additional Precautions 551 · Batteries are supplied with the unit. The life of these batteries may be limited, however, since their primary purpose was to enable testing. 307 · Please be aware that the contents of memory can be irretrievably lost as a result of a malfunction, or the improper operation of the unit. To protect yourself against the risk of loosing important data, we recommend that you periodically save a backup copy of important data you have writed on the paper. 552 · Before connecting this unit to other devices, turn off the power to all units. This will help prevent malfunctions and/or damage to speakers or other devices. · Unfortunately, it may be impossible to restore the contents of data that was stored in the unit's memory once it has been lost. Roland Corporation assumes no liability concerning such loss of data. 553 Placement 351 · Using the unit near power amplifiers (or other equipment containing large power transformers) may induce hum. To alleviate the problem, change the orientation of this unit; or move it farther away from the source of interference. 352a · Use a reasonable amount of care when using the unit's buttons, sliders, or other controls; and when using its jacks and connectors. Rough handling can lead to malfunctions. 556 · When connecting / disconnecting all cables, grasp the connector itself--never pull on the cable. This way you will avoid causing shorts, or damage to the cable's internal elements. 558a · This device may interfere with radio and television reception. Do not use this device in the vicinity of such receivers. 352b · Noise may be produced if wireless communications devices, such as cell phones, are operated in the vicinity of this unit. Such noise could occur when receiving or initiating a call, or while conversing. Should you experience such problems, you should relocate such wireless devices so they are at a greater distance from this unit, or switch them off. 354a · To avoid disturbing your neighbors, try to keep the unit's volume at reasonable levels. You may prefer to use headphones, so you do not need to be concerned about those around you (especially when it is late at night). 559a · When you need to transport the unit, package it in the box (including padding) that it came in, if possible. Otherwise, you will need to use equivalent packaging materials. 562 · Do not expose the unit to direct sunlight, place it near devices that radiate heat, leave it inside an enclosed vehicle, or otherwise subject it to temperature extremes. Excessive heat can deform or discolor the unit. 355b · Use a cable from Roland to make the connection. If using some other make of connection cable, please note the following precautions. · Some connection cables contain resistors. Do not use cables that incorporate resistors for connecting to this unit. The use of such cables can cause the sound level to be extremely low, or impossible to hear. For information on cable specifications, contact the manufacturer of the cable. 988 · When moved from one location to another where the temperature and/or humidity is very different, water droplets (condensation) may form inside the unit. Damage or malfunction may result if you attempt to use the unit in this condition. Therefore, before using the unit, you must allow it to stand for several hours, until the condensation has completely evaporated. · Security Slot ( ) http://www.kensington.com/ 4 Contents USING THE UNIT SAFELY ................... 2 IMPORTANT NOTES .......................... 4 Playing Sounds ................................ 6 Installing Batteries .................................................... 6 Making the Connections........................................... 6 Turning on the Power ............................................... 7 Adjusting the Volume................................................. 7 Turning Off the Power .............................................. 7 Saving and Loading the Created Tones (Memory Mode) ....... 20 Switching Between Manual and Memory Mode ....... 20 About the Patch....................................................... 20 Write Procedure ...................................................... 21 Calling Up and Using Stored Tones (Patch Change) ........................................................ 21 Switching Numbers................................................... 21 Switching Banks......................................................... 21 Switching Banks with the Foot Switch ................... 22 Notes When Using Memory Mode ......................... 22 About Tone Changes................................................. 22 About the Tempo Setting.......................................... 22 About the DELAY HOLD......................................... 23 DELAY TAP ............................................................. 23 Changing the Patch Settings (Patch Edit mode).................................................... 23 Using the Effects ............................... 8 About the Effect Connection Sequence.................. 8 TONE MODIFY ........................................................... 9 Switching Tone Modify On and Off with the Foot Switch ................................................... 9 COMPRESSOR ........................................................ 10 Switching the Compressor On and Off with the Foot Switch ................................................. 10 OVERDRIVE/DISTORTION...................................... 11 MODULATION.......................................................... 12 Adding an Effect Synchronized to the Performance Tempo .................................................. 14 DELAY ...................................................................... 15 Adding a Delay Synchronized to the Performance Tempo .................................................. 16 Using the HOLD Function ....................................... 17 NS (Noise Suppressor) ........................................... 18 REVERB ................................................................... 18 Pedal......................................................................... 19 Using the Pedal as a Volume Pedal ........................ 19 Using the Pedal as an Expression Pedal................. 19 Convenient Functions...................... 24 Tuning the Guitar (Tuner) ....................................... 24 Practicing Along with CDs and MDs (AUX IN)...... 25 Appendices .................................... 26 Returning the ME-50 to Its Factory Settings (Factory Reset) ........................................................ 26 Adjusting the Expression Pedal ............................ 26 Troubleshooting ...................................................... 27 Specifications .......................................................... 28 Patch List........................................ 29 Factory Settings.............................. 30 Blank Chart.................................... 32 Index ............................................. 34 Conversions Used in This Manual Words in square brackets [ ] indicate panel buttons or knobs. (Example) [VARIATION]: [WRITE]: VARIATION button WRITE button (p. **) indicates a reference page. 5 Playing Sounds Installing Batteries * Batteries are supplied with the unit. The life of these batteries may be limited, however, since their primary purpose was to enable testing. Insert the included batteries as shown in figure, being careful to orient the batteries correctly. fig.0010 Making the Connections The ME-50 is not equipped with any internal amplifier or speakers. To listen to sound with the ME-50, connect it to a guitar amp, stereo headphones, or other such sound equipment. * To prevent malfunction and/or damage to speakers or other devices, always turn down the volume, and turn off the power on all devices before making any connections. fig.0020 Stereo Headphones Electric Guitar AC Adaptor (PSA series: optional) CD/MD Player, etc. · When turning the unit upside-down, get a bunch of newspapers or magazines, and place them under the four corners or at both ends to prevent damage to the buttons and controls. Also, you should try to orient the unit so no buttons or controls get damaged. · When turning the unit upside-down, handle with care to avoid dropping it, or allowing it to fall or tip over. · Make sure the "+" and "-" ends of the batteries are oriented correctly. · When the batteries run down, the POWER indicator gets dim. If this happens, replace with new batteries. · When replacing the batteries, use six AA type. · Avoid using new batteries together with used ones. In addition, avoid mixing different types of batteries. Doing so can result in fluid leakage. · Battery life can vary depending on battery type. Guitar Amp To prevent the inadvertent disruption of power to your unit (should the plug be pulled out accidentally), and to avoid applying undue stress to the AC adaptor jack, anchor the power cord using the cord hook, as shown in the illustration. fig.0040 Continuous usage time under battery power is about 12 hours with alkaline batteries and about 3.5 hours with carbon batteries. (This may vary according to usage conditions.) When outputting monaurally, connect a cable only to the OUTPUT L (MONO) jack. Do not use a cable containing a resistor to connect CD or MD players to the AUX IN jack. When you use the LINE/PHONES jack, the built-in guitar-amp simulator lets you enjoy impressive guitar sound, even with headphones. 6 Playing Sounds Use a special cable (the optional PCS-31) to send output from the LINE/PHONES jack to equipment such as a mixer. Using an ordinary cable will cause only the leftchannel sound to be output. * Raising the MASTER LEVEL knob too much may result in sound distortion. * When the effects are all off, input and output are at the same levels as when the MASTER LEVEL knob is at the center position. * The setting of the MASTER LEVEL knob is stored in memory for each Patch (p. 20). fig.0030 If There Is No Sound/If the Volume is Low PCS-31 Are connections to other devices correctly made? Check the connections once more. White (L) Red (R) Is the volume turned down? Check the volume levels on any connected amp or mixer. Can you hear sound through the headphones when headphones are connected? If you can hear sounds, it may be that there is a short in the cable used to connect the amp or other device, or perhaps a mistake in an external device's settings. Check the connecting cables and external devices once more. Turning on the Power Once the connections have been completed, turn on power to your various devices in the order specified. By turning on devices in the wrong order, you risk causing malfunction and/or damage to speakers and other devices. 1. (CD/MD Player) 2. ME-50 fig.0041 Has the level been lowered with the expression pedal? Sounds are not output when the toe of the expression pedal is in the raised position while the pedal is set to function as a volume pedal. (p. 19) Is the ME-50 in Tuner mode (p. 24)? Output is muted in Tuner mode. Is a cable containing a resistor being used to connect a CD or MD player to the AUX IN jack? Using a cable containing a resistor may prevent sound from CD and MD players from being audible. 3. Guitar Amp / Stereo, Etc. * Turn up the volume on amps and other equipment only after all connections are completed and the power for connected devices is turned on. * This unit is equipped with a protection circuit. A brief interval (several seconds) after power up is required before the unit will operate normally. Turning Off the Power 1. Turn down the volume of the ME-50 and any connected device. 2. Turn off the power to Guitar Amp / Stereo, Multitrack Recorder, etc. 3. Tuen the ME-50's power off. Adjusting the Volume Adjust the ME-50's volume with the MASTER LEVEL knob. fig.0050 7 Using the Effects When the power is turned on, the ME-50 always switches to Manual mode, and the OVERDRIVE/DISTORTION, MODULATION, and DELAY are switched off. * When the DELAY TYPE is set to HOLD, the DELAY indicator goes on, the DELAY pedal's indicator flashes at a fixed interval, indicating recording standby is enabled. (p. 17) All product names mentioned in this document are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners. Those companies are not affiliated with BOSS and have not licenced or authorized BOSS's ME-50. Their marks are used solely to identify the equipment whose sound is simulated by BOSS's ME-50. About the Effect Connection Sequence The ME-50 automatically selects the optimum sequence for connecting the effects according to the effect (p. 19) you select with the expression pedal. When WAH, RING MOD, +1OCTAVE, or -1OCTAVE is Selected fig.0060 TONE MODIFY EXPRESSION COMPRESSOR OVERDRIVE / DISTORTION NS VOLUME (PEDAL) MODULATION DELAY REVERB When RESONANCE and VOICE is Selected fig.0070 TONE MODIFY COMPRESSOR OVERDRIVE / DISTORTION EXPRESSION NS VOLUME (PEDAL) MODULATION DELAY REVERB Also, when the MODULATION type is TREMOLO or UNI-V, MODULATION is connected before OVERDRIVE/DISTORTION. (Example) EXPRESSION: WAH; MODULATION: TREMOLO fig.0080 TONE MODIFY WAH (EXPRESSION) COMPRESSOR TREMOLO (MODULATION) OVERDRIVE / DISTORTION NS VOLUME (PEDAL) DELAY REVERB 8 Using the Effects TONE MODIFY fig.0090 TONE MODIFY Indicator ACOUSTIC Changes the electric guitar's tone to that of an acoustic guitar. Switching Tone Modify On and Off with the Foot Switch This changes the characteristics of the connected guitar. With a foot switch (the optional FS-5U) connected to the FOOT SW jack on the rear panel, you can use the foot switch to switch Tone Modify on and off. fig.0100 TYPE knob OFF The sound is bypassed. * When switched OFF, the TONE MODIFY indicator goes out. FAT Fat tone with boosted mid range. PRESENCE Bright tone with boosted high-mid range. Set the polarity switch as shown below. MILD Mild tone with the high end cut back. TIGHT Tone with the low frequencies cut. * When in Memory mode, the bank-switching function is enabled (p. 22). ENHANCE Tone with the high frequencies boosted. By connecting with a special cable (the optional PCS-31), you can connect two foot switches, one for Tone Modify ON/OFF, and one to switch the Compressor on and off (p. 10). S H Changes from a single-coil pickup tone to a humbucking pickup tone. H S Changes from a humbucking pickup tone to a mixed tone of two single-coil pickups. H HF Changes from a humbucking pickup tone to a single-coil pickup half tone. HOLLOW Adds body resonance to create a tone like that of an fullacoustic guitar. 9 Using the Effects COMPRESSOR fig.0110 COMPRESSOR Indicator Switching the Compressor On and Off with the Foot Switch With the special cable (the optional PCS-31) used to connect two foot switches (the optional FS-5U) to the FOOT SW jack on the rear panel, you can use one foot switch for Tone Modify ON/OFF, and one to switch the Compressor on and off (p. **). Connect as shown below. This is an effect that produces a long sustain by evening out the volume level of the input signal. You can also use it as a "limiter" to suppress only the sound peaks and prevent distortion. fig.0120 SUSTAIN knob This adjusts the depth of the effect. Turning it to the right (clockwise) produces a longer sustain. When using this as a limiter, turn the SUSTAIN knob to the left (counterclockwise). * When not using the Compressor, turn the SUSTAIN knob to OFF. When switched OFF, the COMPRESSOR indicator goes out. White Set the polarity switch as shown below. PCS-31 Red TONE MODIFY COMPRESSOR On/Off On/Off LEVEL knob Adjusts the volume level when the Compressor is on. Use this in achieving a volume balance when switching the Compressor on and off. * When in Memory mode, the bank-switching function is enabled (p. 22). 10 Using the Effects OVERDRIVE/DISTORTION fig.0130 OVERDRIVE/DISTORTION Indicator OD/DS pedal Each time you press the pedal, the effect switches through Overdrive/Distortion ON and OFF. When switched on, the OVERDRIVE/DISTORTION indicator and pedal indicator light up. DRIVE knob Adjusts the amount of distortion. Turning the knob to the right (clockwise) creates a stronger distortion and increases the volume. Turning this all the way to the TURBO range increases the effect even more. BOTTOM knob Pedal Indicator Adjusts the low frequency range. Turning the knob to the left (counterclockwise) cuts the low end more; the low frequencies are boosted as the knob is turned to the right. OD/DS Pedal TONE knob Adjusts the tone. Turning the knob to the left creates a milder sound; a sharper sound is produced as the knob is turned to the right. These are effects that distort the sound. You can use the TYPE knob in combination with [VARIATION] to get 22 different types of distortion. LEVEL knob Adjusts the volume. Type List [VARIATION] Off [VARIATION] Lit Overdrive that gives a more natural sounding distortion. A lustrous crunch sound with an added element of CRUNCH amp distortion. Produces a distortion sound with both the smoothLEAD ness of an overdrive along with a deep distortion. A heavy distortion with a boosted low end. LOUD An intense, radical distortion sound. METAL MODERN OD Overdrive with special mid range tone. A fat sound with an added element of a stack STACK amp's distortion. Sound of Overdrive through a stack amp. Hi GAIN MODERN DS Sound of a large high gain amp. SQUARE Synth square wave sound. OCT FUZZ Fuzz sound produced by octave harmonics. OD-1 OD-2 BD-2 Models the BOSS OD-1. Models the BOSS OD-2. Models the BOSS BD-2. NATURAL Models the BOSS DS-1. DS-1 Models the BOSS MT-2. MT-2 SCREAM Models the Ibanez TS-808 TUBESCREAMER. DST+ GUV RAT MUFF FACE Models the MXR DISTORTION+. Models the Marshall GUV'NOR. Models the Proco RAT. Models the Electro-Harmonix Big Muff . Models the FUZZFACE. 11 Using the Effects MODULATION fig.0140 MODULATION Indicator DEPTH/HARMONY knob Adjusts the depth of modulation. E.LEVEL/RESONANCE knob Adjusts the volume of the chorus sound. ST CHORUS 1 This is a stereo chorus effect that adds different chorus sounds to L and R. RATE/KEY knob Adjusts the rate of modulation. DEPTH/HARMONY knob Adjusts the depth of modulation. Pedal Indicator E.LEVEL/RESONANCE knob Adjusts the volume of the chorus sound. MOD Pedal ST CHORUS 2 This is a stereo chorus effect produced by synthesizing the spatial characteristics of the direct sound and the effect sound. RATE/KEY knob Adjusts the rate of modulation. An effect that broadens sound and adds undulations is called "modulation." The ME-50 comes with 11 different types of Modulation effects. Select any one of these as the effect to be used. DEPTH/HARMONY knob Adjusts the depth of modulation. E.LEVEL/RESONANCE knob Adjusts the volume of the chorus sound. MOD pedal Depress the pedal to toggle Modulation on/off. When switched on, the MODULATION indicator and pedal indicator light up. PHASER By adding varied-phase portions to the direct sound, adds a twisting "warp" effect to the sound. RATE/KEY knob TYPE knob Select the effect to be used from the eleven effects available. Adjusts the rate of phaser effect. DEPTH/HARMONY knob. Adjusts the depth of phaser effect. CHORUS This chorus effect outputs the same sound from both L and R. E.LEVEL/RESONANCE knob Adjusts the amount of resonance. "Chorus" adds a subtle sway to the guitar sound for a beautiful sound featuring more breadth and fullness. RATE/KEY knob Adjusts the rate of modulation. 12 Using the Effects FLANGER Adds a undulation like that of a jet ascending or decending. E.LEVEL/RESONANCE knob Adjusts the volume balance between the direct sound and the harmony sound. RATE/KEY knob Adjusts the rate of flanging effect. TREMOLO Tremolo is an effect that creates a cyclic change in volume. DEPTH/HARMONY knob Adjusts the depth of flanging effect. RATE/KEY knob Adjusts the frequency (speed) of the change. E.LEVEL/RESONANCE knob Adjusts the amount of resonance. DEPTH/HARMONY knob Adjusts the depth of the effect. * Operating the E.LEVEL/RESONANCE knob produces no effect. HARMONIST "Harmonist" is an effect which the amount of shifting is adjusted according to an analysis of the guitar input, allowing you to create harmonics based on diatonic scales. * Because of the need to analyze the pitch, chords (two or more sounds played simultaneously) cannot be played. PAN With the volume level of the left and right sides alternately changing, when playing sound in stereo, you can get an effect that makes the guitar sound appear to fly back and forth between the speakers. RATE/KEY knob Specify the key of the song you are playing. By specifying the key, you can create harmonies that fit the key of the song. The selected key is shown in the display. The key setting corresponds to the key of the song (#, b) as follows. fig.0150 RATE/KEY knob Adjusts the frequency (speed) of the change. DEPTH/HARMONY knob Adjusts the depth of the effect. * Operating the E.LEVEL/RESONANCE knob produces no effect. VIBRATO This effect creates vibrato by slightly modulating the pitch. RATE/KEY knob Adjusts the rate of the vibrato. DEPTH/HARMONY knob Adjusts the depth of the vibrato. * Operating the E.LEVEL/RESONANCE knob produces no effect. DEPTH/HARMONY knob This determines the pitch of the sound added to the input sound, when you are making a harmony. It allows you to set it by up to 1 octave higher or lower than the input sound. When set to "0," this yields a "detuned" effect that adds sound of slightly different pitch to the input sound. fig.0160 UNI-V Although this resembles a phaser effect, it also provides a unique undulation that you can't get with a regular phaser. RATE/KEY knob Adjusts the rate of the UNI-V effect. DEPTH/HARMONY knob Adjusts the depth of the UNI-V effect. -1Octave 6th Detune +1 Octave E.LEVEL/RESONANCE knob Adjusts the volume of the UNI-V effect. 13 Using the Effects ROTARY Produces the effect of a rotary speaker. Adding an Effect Synchronized to the Performance Tempo When any effect other than HARMONIST is selected, you can set the tempo so you get an effect that is synchronized to the performance tempo. * The allowable rate cycles for the tempo settings range from 62 ms to 2000 ms. 1. Hold down the MOD pedal for at least two seconds. · If the MOD pedal is pressed when the effect is on, the pedal indicator goes out, and the effect is turned off. · If the MOD pedal is pressed when the effect is off, the pedal indicator turns red, and the effect is turned on. When you continue to depress the pedal, after two seconds the pedal's indicator starts to flash, and the tempo can then be set with the effect on. Here, the tempo is indicated by the value set with the RATE/KEY knob. 2. Press the MOD pedal in timing with the tempo more than two times. The tempo is set according to the time interval between each press of the pedal. The pedal indicator flashes in time with the tempo. RATE/KEY knob Adjusts the speed of rotation for the speaker. DEPTH/HARMONY knob Adjusts the depth of the rotary effect. E.LEVEL/RESONANCE knob Adjusts the volume of the rotary effect. Setting the RATE near the desired tempo beforehand allows you to make faster and more natural tempo settings. 3. Hold down the MOD pedal for at least two seconds to complete the tempo setting. The effect goes on, and instead of flashing, the pedal indicator will light. * If you move the RATE/KEY knob after finishing this setting, the rate corresponding to the knob position takes effect. 14 Using the Effects DELAY fig.0170 DELAY Indicator 0-30 ms Delay sound of 0 to 30 ms delay time. 25-125 ms Delay sound of 25 to 125 ms delay time. 100-500 ms Delay sound of 100 to 500 ms delay time. 400-2000 ms Delay sound of 400 to 2000 ms delay time. ANALOG Pedal Indicator This gives a mild analog delay sound. The delay time can be set within the range of 100 ms to 500 ms. SLOW ECHO DELAY Pedal This produces an effect combining a volume-swell sound with delay. The delay time can be set within the range of 200 ms to 1000 ms. PAN This effect adds delayed sound to the direct sound, giving more body to the sound or creating special effects. A panned delay in which the repeated sounds come alternately from the left and right channels. The delay time can be set within the range of 200 ms to 1000 ms. * When using the ME-50 in mono, the panning delay is not effective, even when PAN is selected. DELAY pedal The Delay is switched on or off each time you press the pedal. When switched on, the DELAY indicator and pedal indicator light up. * DELAY ON/OFF switches the Delay at the input to provide a more natural effect. For this reason, if the FEEDBACK is turned up when the Delay is turned off, the delay sound will remain briefly. SPACE PAN This is a panning delay that gives an even wider spatial effect than PAN. The delay time can be set within the range of 200 ms to 1000 ms. * When using the ME-50 in mono, or when using headphones, the panning delay is not effective, even when SPACE PAN is selected. TYPE knob Sets the type of the delay * When a setting other than HOLD is selected, you can use the DELAY pedal to input the tempo, and set the delay time synchronized to the performance tempo. REVERSE This produces an effect where the sound is played back in reverse. You can get two different effects, "direct sound + effect sound," or "effect sound only," depending on the position of the E.LEVEL knob. When the E.LEVEL knob is turned up to MAX, the unit switches to "effect sound only." The delay time can be set within the range of 400 ms to 2000 ms. "TAP " (p. 16) "Adding Synchronized Delay to the Performance Tempo" (p. 16) 15 Using the Effects HOLD Up to 2 seconds of performance content is recorded, then played back repeatedly. You can also layer this as you perform something else, then record these together (overdub). You can keep the recorded content playing continuously as backing and produce other special effects. Adding a Delay Synchronized to the Performance Tempo Using tempo input, the delay time can be set within the range of 62 ms to 2000 ms. You can set this regardless of whether the effect is on or off. 1. Select the delay type. (except HOLD, TAP ) 2. Hold down the DELAY pedal for at least two seconds. "Using the HOLD Function" · If the DELAY pedal is pressed when the effect is on, the pedal indicator goes out, and the effect is turned off. · If the DELAY pedal is pressed when the effect is off, the pedal indicator turns red, and the effect is turned on. When you continue to depress the pedal, after two seconds the pedal's indicator starts to flash, and the tempo can then be set with the effect on. Here, the delay time is indicated by the value set with the TIME knob. 3. Press the DELAY pedal in timing with the tempo more than two times. The delay time is set according to the time interval between each press of the pedal. The pedal indicator flashes in time with the tempo. * Press the pedal to set the tempo while no guitar sound is playing. * When the type is set to "PAN" or "SPACE PAN," the delay time is set to half the interval between the presses of the pedal. 4. Hold down the pedal switch for at least two seconds to complete the tempo setting. The effect goes on, and instead of flashing, the pedal indicator will light. * The tempo may become confused momentarily when you go from Step 3 to Step 4. * If you move the TIME knob after finishing this setting, the delay time corresponding to the knob position takes effect. TAP This is a tempo delay that lets you set a dotted eighth note delay time for the performance tempo by pressing the DELAY pedal in time with the performance tempo. * The delay time can be set within the range of 46.5 ms to 1500 ms. 1. Set the TYPE knob to `TAP " The pedal indicator flashes in time with the current tempo. 2. Press the DELAY pedal in timing with the tempo more than two times. The reference tempo is determined by the time interval between each press of the pedal. The reference tempo is calculated in terms of quarter notes, and the delay time setting is the dotted eight note as referenced to the reference tempo. The pedal indicator flashes in time with the tempo. fig.0180 Timing Delay Sound TIME knob Adjuts the delay time. * When the type is set to "HOLD" or "TAP ," operating the TIME knob produces no effect. FEEDBACK knob Adjusts the amount of feedback (number of repeats). Turning the knob to the right increases the number of times the sound repeats. * When the type is set to "HOLD," operating the FEEDBACK knob produces no effect. E.LEVEL knob Adjusts the volume of the delay sound. When TYPE is set to REVERSE, this adjusts the balance of direct and effect sound. 16 Using the Effects Write Procedures (p. 21) When the Tempo Has Been Set The delay time stored in a Patch (p. 20) is determined as follows. · If it is within the delay time range that can be set for the type currently selected, it is stored without change. · If it exceeds the maximum delay time that can be set for the type currently selected, the maximum value for the type is stored. · If it is less than the minimum delay time that can be set for the type currently selected, the minimum value for the type is stored. (Example) When TYPE is 100­500 ms When the delay time for the tempo setting is 600 ms: Stored as 500 ms. When the delay time for the tempo setting is 80 ms: Stored as 100 ms. Using the HOLD Function 1. Set the TYPE knob to HOLD. The unit goes into recording standby and the pedal's indicator flashes at a fixed interval. * After switching to HOLD, wait two seconds before you carry out the next operation. 2. Press the DELAY pedal to start recording. Recording starts when you press the DELAY pedal. Hold down the pedal switch for the duration of the recording (the pedal indicator flashes). 3. Release the DELAY pedal to stop recording. Playback of the recorded content begins simultaneously (the CHECK indicator remains lit). * The maximum recording time is 2 seconds. If the DELAY pedal is held down for more than 2 seconds, the recording stops automatically, and the recorded content is then played back. * An oscillating sound may be audible with extremely short recording times. 4. When layering recordings, repeat Steps 2 and 3. 5. Adjust the volume Adjust the volume of the playback sound with the E.LEVEL knob. 6. Press the pedal switch to stop the playback (the pedal indicator goes out). The unit returns to recording standby, and the pedal's indicator flashes at a fixed interval. * When playback is stopped, the recorded content is erased. * To start recording again, wait two seconds, then carry out step 2. 17 Using the Effects NS (Noise Suppressor) fig.0190 REVERB fig.0200 NS Indicator REVERB Indicator This effect reduces the noise and hum picked up by guitar pickups. Since it suppresses the noise in synchronization with the envelope of the guitar sound (the way in which the guitar sound decays over time), it has very little effect on the guitar sound, and does not harm the natural character of the sound. This effect adds reverberation to the sound. Use the knob to switch to any of four different reverb, ROOM, HALL, SPRING, or MOD. You can adjust the amount of effect applied according to the knob position. * The panel markings for ROOM, HALL, SPRING, or MOD are for approximate settings. Check the sound of the effects as you make adjustments. * The indicator is lit when Reverb is on, and goes off when Reverb is turned off. THRESHOLD knob Adjust this parameter as appropriate for the volume of the noise. If the noise level is high, a higher setting is appropriate. If the noise level is low, a lower setting is appropriate. Adjust this value until the decay of the guitar sound is as natural as possible. * Turn the knob to OFF when not using the noise suppressor. When switched OFF, the NS indicator goes out. * High settings for the threshold parameter may result in there being no sound when you play with your guitar volume turned down.