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 relativ ...