User manual ZOOM A2

Operation Manual © ZOOM Corporation Reproduction of this manual, in whole or in part, by any means, is prohibited. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS Usage Precautions SAFETY PRECAUTIONS In this manual, symbols are used to highlight warnings and cautions for you to read so that accidents can be prevented. The meanings of these symbols are as follows: This symbol indicates explanations about extremely dangerous matters. If users ignore this symbol and Warning handle the device the wrong way, serious injury or death could result. This symbol indicates explanations about dangerous matters. If users ignore this symbol and handle the device the wrong way, bodily injury and damage to the equipment could result. Caution Warning · High humidity or moisture · Excessive dust or sand · Excessive vibration or shock Handling · Never place objects filled with liquids, such as vases, on the A2 since this can cause electric shock. · Do not place naked flame sources, such as lighted candles, on the A2 since this can cause fire. · The A2 is a precision instrument. Do not exert undue pressure on the keys and other controls. Also take care not to drop the unit, and do not subject it to shock or excessive pressure. · Take care that no foreign objects (coins or pins etc.) or liquids can enter the unit. Caution Connecting cables and input and output jacks You should always turn off the power to the A2 and all other equipment before connecting or disconnecting any cables. Also make sure to disconnect all connection cables and the power cord before moving the A2. Please observe the following safety tips and precautions to ensure hazard-free use of the A2. Power requirements Warning Since power consumption of this unit is fairly high, we recommend the use of an AC adapter whenever possible. When powering the unit from batteries, use only alkaline types. [AC adapter operation] · Be sure to use only an AC adapter which supplies 9 V DC, 300 mA and is equipped with a "center minus" plug (Zoom AD-0006). The use of an adapter other than the specified type may damage the unit and pose a safety hazard. · Connect the AC adapter only to an AC outlet that supplies the rated voltage required by the adapter. · When disconnecting the AC adapter from the AC outlet, always grasp the adapter itself and do not pull at the cable. · During lightning or when not using the unit for an extended period, disconnect the AC adapter from the AC outlet. Alterations Warning Never open the case of the A2 or attempt to modify the product in any way since this can result in damage to the unit. Volume Caution Do not use the A2 at a loud volume for a long time since this can cause hearing impairment. Usage Precautions Electrical interference For safety considerations, the A2 has been designed to provide maximum protection against the emission of electromagnetic radiation from inside the device, and protection from external interference. However, equipment that is very susceptible to interference or that emits powerful electromagnetic waves should not be placed near the A2, as the possibility of interference cannot be ruled out entirely. With any type of digital control device, the A2 included, electromagnetic interference can cause malfunctioning and can corrupt or destroy data. Care should be taken to minimize the risk of damage. [Battery operation] · Use four conventional IEC R6 (size AA) batteries (alkaline). · The A2 cannot be used for recharging. · Pay close attention to the labelling of the battery to make sure you choose the correct type. · When not using the unit for an extended period, remove the batteries from the unit. · If battery leakage has occurred, wipe the battery compartment and the battery terminals carefully to remove all remnants of battery fluid. · While using the unit, the battery compartment cover should be closed. Cleaning Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the A2. If necessary, slightly moisten the cloth. Do not use abrasive cleanser, wax, or solvents (such as paint thinner or cleaning alcohol), since these may dull the finish or damage the surface. Environment Warning To prevent the risk of fire, electric shock or malfunction, avoid using your A2 in environments where it will be exposed to: · Extreme temperatures · Heat sources such as radiators or stoves Please keep this manual in a convenient place for future reference. 2 ZOOM A2 Contents SAFETY PRECAUTIONS Usage Precautions .............................. 2 Features......................................................................................... 4 Terms Used in This Manual ......................................................... 5 Controls and Functions / Connections ....................................... 6 Selecting a Patch .......................................................................... 8 Using the Tuner ........................................................................... 10 Using the Rhythm Function ....................................................... 12 Editing a Patch ............................................................................ 14 Storing/Copying Patches ........................................................... 16 Using the Feedback Control ...................................................... 18 Manual operation of feedback control .......................................18 Automatic detection of feedback frequency .............................19 Using Manual Mode .................................................................... 20 Using an Optional Foot Switch or Pedal ................................... 21 Using the foot switch (FS01) .......................................................21 Using the expression pedal (FP01/FP02)................................... 22 Restoring Factory Defaults ........................................................ 24 Linking Effects ............................................................................ 25 CONTROL module and GLOBAL module ..................................25 Effect Types and Parameters ..................................................... 26 How to read the parameter table ...............................................26 MODEL ........................................................................................... 27 MIC .................................................................................................28 COMP/LIMIT ...................................................................................28 LO EQ .............................................................................................28 HI EQ ...............................................................................................29 ZNR .................................................................................................29 MOD/EFX .........................................................................................29 DELAY/REVERB ............................................................................. 31 CONTROL .......................................................................................33 GLOBAL ..........................................................................................34 Specifications .............................................................................. 35 Troubleshooting .......................................................................... 35 A2 Preset Pattern ............................................................ Back cover 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. ZOOM A2 3 Features Thank you for selecting the ZOOM A2 (simply called the "A2" in this manual). The A2 is a sophisticated effect processor for acoustic guitar with the following features. Latest technology for top performance Excellent sound quality is assured by signal processing circuitry featuring 96 kHz/24 bit sampling and internal 32-bit processing. Frequency response remains flat to 40 kHz, and signal-to-noise ratio is an amazing 100 dB. Full array of effects optimized for acoustic guitar Out of a versatile palette of 47 effects, up to eight (including ZNR) can be used simultaneously. In addition to standard effects such as compressor and delay/reverb, the A2 offers effects which simulate the sound of famous acoustic guitars, a mic simulator, and other specialized acoustic guitar effects. Select optimum characteristics for pickups and amps The A2 allows you to select the best frequency response for your pickup and amp. This is great for eliminating sonic problems that can occur when playing an acoustic guitar through a guitar amplifier. Automatic suppression of acoustic feedback The feedback control feature pinpoints the frequency where acoustic feedback (howling) occurs and provides an efficient cure. The function can be activated by foot switch during a performance. Advanced interface Rotary selectors and three parameter knobs make operation extremely quick and intuitive. The muting interval when switching patches has been reduced to less than 8 milliseconds, allowing virtually seamless patch changes. Rhythm function and auto-chromatic tuner Rhythm patterns created from highly realistic PCM sources are convenient for use instead of a metronome during practice or for quick session work. The auto-chromatic tuner designed for guitar makes tuning a snap. Support for foot switch and expression pedal By connecting an optional foot switch (FS01) to the CONTROL IN jack, you can switch banks, specify the rhythm tempo, and switch feedback control on and off with your foot. Or use an expression pedal (FP01/FP02) to vary the volume or tone in real time. Dual power supply principle allows use anywhere The A2 can be powered from four IEC R6 (size AA) batteries or an AC adapter. Continuous operating time on batteries is approximately 7.5 hours with alkaline batteries. Please take the time to read this manual carefully, in order to get the most out of your A2 and to ensure optimum performance and reliability. 4 ZOOM A2 Terms Used in This Manual This section explains some important terms that are used throughout the A2 documentation. IN MODEL MIC COMP/LIMIT LO EQ HI EQ ZNR MOD/EFX DELAY/REVERB OUT Effect module As shown in the illustration above, the A2 can be thought of as a combination of several single effects. Each of these is referred to as an effect module. Among others, there is a module for ZNR (ZOOM Noise Reduction), as well as a modeling (sound simulation) module (MODEL), compressor/limiter module (COMP/LIMIT), modulation/special effects module (MOD/EFX). Parameters such as effect intensity can be adjusted for each module individually, and modules can be switched on and off. Effect type Most effect modules comprise several different effects which are referred to as effect types. For example, the MOD/EFX module comprises chorus, flanger, delay, phaser, and other effect types. Only one of these can be selected at any time. Effect parameter All effect modules have various parameters that can be adjusted. These are called effect parameters. In the A2, effect parameters are adjusted with the parameter knobs 1 - 3. Similar to the knobs on a compact effect, these change aspects such as tonal character and effect intensity. Which parameter is assigned to each knob depends on the currently selected effect module and effect type. Patch In the A2, effect module combinations are stored and called up in units referred to as patches. A patch comprises information about the on/off status of each effect module, about the effect type used in each module, and about effect parameter settings. The internal memory of the A2 holds 80 patches (40 of these can be rewritten by the user). Bank and area A group of ten patches is called a bank. The memory of the A2 comprises a total of eight banks, labelled A to d and 0 to 3. Banks A - d form the user area which allows read/write patches. Banks 0 to 3 are the preset area of read-only. The patches within each bank are numbered 0 through 9. To specify a patch, you use the format "A1" (patch number 1 from bank A), "06" (patch number 6 from bank 0), etc. Modes The A2 has the following operation modes. Play mode In this mode, patches can be selected and played. Manual mode In this mode, you play your instrument while using the foot switches to turn the MOD/EFX module or the feedback control function on and off. The mode also is used for automatic detection of acoustic feedback frequency. Edit mode In this mode, the effect parameters of a patch can be edited (changed). Operating the A2 on batteries 1. Turn the A2 over and open the cover A2 bottom view Latch 2. Insert four fresh IEC R6 (size AA) batteries. Four IEC R6 (size AA) batteries 3. Close the cover of the battery compartment. Push the cover in until the latch audibly snaps into place. of the battery compartment on the bottom. Insert batteries facing in alternate directions. Latch Cover Use four IEC R6 (size AA) batteries. When the batteries are getting low, the indication "bt" appears on the display. Press the latch to release it and then raise the cover. ZOOM A2 5 Controls and Functions / Connections Module selector Switches between play / manual mode and edit mode. In edit mode, the knob selects the module for operation. Top Panel BANK [-]/[+] keys In play / manual mode, the keys serve for directly switching to the next lower or higher bank. In edit mode, the keys switch the effect type for the currently selected module. [STORE] key Serves for storing edited patches in memory. [INPUT] jack Serves for connecting of an acoustic guitar with a pickup, an electroacoustic guitar, or an electric guitar. About HI-GAIN mode When using a magnetic pickup, a single-coil electric guitar, or any other pickup with low output level, the input gain of the A2 can be increased by selecting the HI-GAIN mode. To start the A2 in HI-GAIN mode Turn power on while holding down the [W] foot switch. The indication "Hi-GAin" scrolls on the display, and input gain will be set to a higher value. NOTE The input gain setting is not stored in memory and will be canceled when the unit is turned off. Perform the above procedure every time at power-on, as needed. Acoustic guitar [OUTPUT/PHONES] jack This stereo phone jack can be used for connection to a guitar amplifier or hi-fi system. It is also possible to use a Y cable for sending the output to two amplifiers, or to plug a pair of stereo headphones into this jack. Headphones PA system 6 ZOOM A2 Controls and Functions / Connections Parameter knobs 1 - 3 These knobs allow changing the value of effect parameters or the level of the overall patch. During rhythm playback, the knobs let you select a pattern, set the tempo, and adjust the rhythm volume. RHYTHM [R/P] key Serves to start/stop rhythm playback. [MANUAL] key Switches between play mode and manual mode. The key is lit when the A2 is in manual mode. Display Shows patch numbers, setting values, and other information about operating the A2. [W]/[Q] foot switches These switches serve for selecting patches, turning effect modules on and off, controlling the tuner, and other functions. Rear Panel AC adapter [DC 9V] jack An AC adapter (ZOOM AD-0006) with a rated output of 9 volts DC, 300 mA (center minus plug) can be plugged into this jack. [POWER] switch Turns the unit on and off. [CONTROL IN] jack Serves for connection of the optional foot switch (FS01) or expression pedal (FP01/FP02). FP01/FP02 FS01 ZOOM A2 7 Selecting a Patch While playing your instrument, try out various patches to see what the A2 can do. Turn power on Use a shielded cable with mono phone plug to connect your guitar to the [INPUT] jack of the A2. To power the A2 from the AC adapter, plug the adapter into a wall outlet and plug the cable from the adapter into the [DC IN] jack on the A2. Set the [POWER] switch on the rear panel of the A2 to ON. Turn the playback system on and adjust the volume to a suitable position. Set the A2 to play mode If the Module selector is set to a position other than "PLAY", set it to "PLAY". The bank and patch that were selected when the power was last turned off will appear on the display. A1 Bank name Patch number HINT Immediately after turning the A2 on, the unit will be in play mode, even if the Module selector is set to a position other than "PLAY". Select a patch To switch the patch, press one of the [W]/[Q] foot switches. Pressing the [W] foot switch calls up the next lower patch, and pressing the [Q] foot switch calls up the next higher patch. Repeatedly pressing one foot switch cycles through patches in the order A0 ­ A9 ... d0 ­ d9 00 ­ 09 ... 30 ­ 39 A0, or the reverse order. 8 ZOOM A2 Selecting a Patch Adjust tone and volume To adjust the effect sound and volume levels in play mode, the Parameter knobs 1 ­ 3 can be used. Each knob controls a specific parameter. Parameter knob 1 Mainly adjusts the MIX parameter of the MOD/EFX module (the level of the effect sound mixed to the orignal sound). Parameter knob 3 Adjusts the PATCH LEVEL parameter (output level of the entire patch). Parameter knob 2 Adjusts the MIX parameter of the DELAY/REVERB module (the level of the effect sound mixed to the orignal sound). When you turn a Parameter knob, the corresponding LED lights up and the display briefly shows the current value of the respective parameter. NOTE · If the MOD/EFX module or DELAY/REVERB module is set to off for the currently selected patch (display shows "oF"), the respective parameter knobs (1 or 2) have no effect. · Changes made here are temporary and will be lost when you select another patch. To retain the changes, store the patch ( p. 16). · Besides the individual patch levels, the A2 also allows adjusting the master level. This setting affects all patches ( p. 33). Directly selecting a bank To select the banks A ­ d, 0 ­ 3 directly, use the BANK [-]/[+] keys. Pressing the BANK [-] key calls up the next lower bank, and pressing the BANK [+] key calls up the next higher bank. ZOOM A2 9 Using the Tuner The A2 incorporates an auto-chromatic tuner. To use the tuner function, the built-in effects must be bypassed (temporarily turned off) or muted (original sound and effect sound turned off). Switch to bypass or mute Setting the A2 to the bypass condition In play mode (or manual mode), press both [W]/[Q] foot switches together briefly and release. In play mode (or manual mode), press both [W]/[Q] foot switches together and hold for at least 1 second. BP MT Setting the A2 to the mute condition Patch change at bypass/mute When you press both [W]/[Q] foot switches together while playing your instrument, the bypass/mute condition is activated. However, the sound may change momentarily just before the condition is activated. This is because the A2 switches to the next higher or lower patch when one of the foot switches is pressed slightly earlier. (When you cancel the bypass/mute condition, the original patch number will be active again.) This kind of behavior is not a defect. It is due to the very high speed at which the A2 responds to patch switching. To prevent the sound change caused by the above condition, do not produce sound with your instrument until the bypass/mute condition is fully established. Play the string to tune Play the open string to tune, and adjust the pitch. A8 The left side of the display shows the note which is closest to the current pitch. 10 ZOOM A2 Using the Tuner Adjusting the reference pitch of the tuner If required, you can fine-adjust the reference pitch of the A2 tuner. The default setting after power-on is center A = 440 Hz. Turn parameter knob 1. 40 The current reference pitch is shown. The adjustment range is 35 ­ 45 (center A = 435 to 445 Hz). While the reference pitch value is shown, turn parameter knob 1 to adjust it. 42 When you release the parameter knob, the display indication will return to the previous condition after a while. NOTE When you turn the A2 off and on again, the reference pitch setting will be reset to 40 (center A = 440 Hz). Return to play mode Press one of the [W]/[Q] foot switches. The right side of the display shows a symbol that indicates by how much the tuning is off. Pitch is high Pitch is correct Pitch is low A8 Tune other strings in the same way. Indication turns faster the more the pitch is off. ZOOM A2 11 Using the Rhythm Function The A2 has a built-in rhythm function that plays realistic drum sounds in various patterns. The rhythm function is available in play mode or in the bypass/mute condition. Set the A2 to play mode (or manual mode) If the Module selector is set to a position other than "PLAY", set it to "PLAY". HINT The rhythm function can be used both in play mode and manual mode. Start the rhythm function To start the rhythm function, press the RHYTHM [R/P] key. NOTE While the rhythm is playing, the DELAY/REVERB module is set to off. Select a rhythm pattern The A2 has 40 built-in rhythm patterns. For more information on the pattern contents, see the back cover of this manual. To continuously switch rhythm patterns, turn parameter knob 1. To select the next higher or next lower rhythm pattern, press one of the BANK [-]/[+] keys. When the above steps are carried out, the current rhythm pattern number (01 ­ 40) is briefly shown on the display. 12 ZOOM A2 Using the Rhythm Function Adjust the rhythm volume To adjust the rhythm volume, turn parameter knob 3. When you turn the parameter knob, the current setting (0 ­ 30) is shown on the display. 25 Adjust the tempo The rhythm pattern tempo can be adjusted in the range of 40 ­ 250 BPM (beats per minute). To continuously change the rhythm tempo, turn parameter knob 2. By connecting a foot switch (FS01) to the [CONTROL IN] jack and assigning the "tap tempo" function to it, you can specify the tempo by tapping the foot switch in the desired interval ( p 21). When you tap the foot switch the first time, the current tempo setting is shown. The setting is then adjusted automatically at the second and subsequent taps. While the above steps are carried out, the current tempo value (40 - 250) is shown on the display. For values in the range from 100 to 199, a dot is shown in the center. For values of 200 and above, dots are shown in the center and at right. 20 Dot is shown 40 Dots are shown Tempo = 120 BPM Tempo =240 BPM Stop the rhythm To stop the rhythm, press the RHYTHM [R/P] key. The A2 returns to the previous condition. ZOOM A2 13 Editing a Patch The patches of the A2 can be freely edited by changing the effect parameter settings. Try editing the currently selected patch to create your own sound. Select the effect module Turn the Module selector to select the effect module to edit. The following settings are available. (5) (1) MODEL module (4) (6) (7) (2) MIC module (3) (3) COMP/LIMIT module (4) LO EQ module (2) (5) HI EQ module (1) (6) ZNR module (7) MOD/SFX module (8) DELAY/REVERB module (9) CONTROL module (10) GLOBAL module (8) (9) (10) When you set the Module selector to a position other than "PLAY", the A2 switches to edit mode, and the effect type currently selected for the respective module is shown. In edit mode, a dot appears in the bottom right of the display. Effect type MD Dot indicates that unit is in edit mode HINT You can switch to edit mode from play mode or manual mode. To switch an effect module on and off To switch the selected effect module between on and off, press one of the [W]/[Q] foot switches. When the module is off, the indication "oF" appears on the display. OF HINT CONTROL and GLOBAL are special modules that serve for making settings that affect the entire unit, such as selection of pedal operation. These modules cannot be switched on/off. 14 ZOOM A2 Editing a Patch Terminate the edit mode To terminate the edit mode and return to the play mode, set the Module selector to the "PLAY" position. A2 returns to play mode (or manual mode). NOTE When you select another patch after editing, the changes you have made in edit mode will be lost unless you store the patch first. To retain the changes, store the patch as described on page 16. Change the parameter value To change the setting value of effect parameters, use the parameter knobs 1 ­ 3. Which parameter is assigned to a knob depends on which effect module/effect type is selected ( p. 27 ­ 34). When you turn a parameter knob, the corresponding LED lights up and the display briefly shows the current value of the respective parameter. 55 NOTE When a module that is set to off is selected, the display shows "oF". Select the effect type To switch the effect type of the selected module, use the BANK [-]/[+] keys. NOTE · When you press the BANK [-]/[+] keys while a module is set to off, the module is switched on. · If you press the BANK [-]/[+] keys for a module that has only one effect type, nothing happens. SC ZOOM A2 15 Storing/Copying Patches An edited patch can be stored in a bank of the user area (A - d). It is also possible to store an existing patch in another location to create a copy. In play mode, manual mode, or edit mode, press the [STORE] key. The bank and patch number are shown on the display as a flashing indication. A0 NOTE Patches of banks in the preset area (0 ­ 3) are read-only. No patches can be stored or copied into these locations. If you press the [STORE] key while a patch from the preset area is selected, the patch "A0" (bank A, patch number 0) will be selected automatically as default store/copy target. Select the store/copy target bank To select the store/copy target bank, use the BANK [-]/[+] keys. D0 NOTE Only a bank of the user area (A ­ d) can be selected as store/copy target bank. 16 ZOOM A2 Storing/Copying Patches To cancel the store process To cancel the store process, operate the Module selector before pressing the [STORE] key again (step ). Press the [STORE] key once more When the store/copy process is completed, the unit returns to the previous mode, with the target patch being selected. D4 Specify the store/copy target patch number To specify the store/copy target patch number, use the [W]/[Q] foot switches. D4 ZOOM A2 17 Using the Feedback Control The feedback control function of the A2 allows automatic or manual detection of the frequency range where acoustic feedback occurs. This frequency range is then attenuated to eliminate feedback. Manual operation of feedback control This section describes how to detect the feedback frequency manually. yields best reduction of acoustic feedback (howling). 30 3. When the setting is complete, return the Module selector to the "PLAY" position. 1. Set the Module selector to "GLOBAL". When the GLOBAL module is selected, parameter knob 2 can be used to adjust the feedback control parameter (FEEDBACK FREQ). The following settings are available. oF HINT · If you select "At" in step 2, the automatic feedback frequency detection starts. During the process, the indication "SC" (Scan) is shown on the display. · The feedback control setting applies to all patches, and the most recent value is always active. There is no need to store the setting. This turns the feedback control function off. When this setting is selected, the foot switch can be used in play mode or manual mode to turn the function on and perform automatic detection of feedback frequency. At Feedback frequency is detected automatically, and the respective range is attenuated. 1 - 30 This allows you to manually set the feedback frequency. Higher setting values correspond to higher frequency. Turn parameter knob 2 to set the feedback frequency, using the setting range from 1 ­ 30. The frequency range corresponding to the selected value will be cut. Select the value that 2. 18 ZOOM A2 Using the Feedback Control Automatic detection of feedback frequency The A2 can automatically detect the frequency range where acoustic feedback is occurring. If acoustic feedback should suddenly occur during a performance, you can simply hit the foot switch to turn the function on and suppress the feedback sound. This is possible both in play mode and manual mode. NOTE If no external foot switch is connected, feedback control cannot be switched on and off in play mode. In manual mode Press the [Q] foot switch to turn feedback control on. In either case, automatic feedback frequency detection starts when the function is turned on. The indication "SC" appears on the display. 1. Refer to the section "Manual operation of feedback control" and set the FEEDBACK FREQ value to "oF" or "At". SC To repeat the automatic detection process, press the [Q] foot switch (in manual mode) or the external foot switch twice to turn the feedback control function first off and then on again. Automatic detection will then be performed once more. HINT You can use the optional expression pedal (FP01/ FP02) to adjust the feedback control frequency with your foot (setting range 1 ­ 30). For information about making foot switch or pedal settings, see pages 21 ­ 23. OF When you select the "oF" setting for the FEEDBACK FREQ value, the feedback control function is off, but it can be turned on by pressing the [Q] foot switch (in manual mode only) or an external foot switch. The setting will change to "At" and feedback frequency detection starts automatically. When you select the "At" setting for the FEEDBACK FREQ value, the feedback control function is on. In this condition, pressing the foot switch twice initiates automatic detection of feedback frequency. HINT In manual mode, you can change the FEEDBACK FREQ value by turning parameter knob 1. 2. To automatically detect the feedback frequency while playing your guitar, proceed as follows. In play mode Use an external foot switch (FS01) connected to the [CONTROL IN] jack. Press the foot switch to turn feedback control on. ZOOM A2 19 Using Manual Mode The condition where the foot switches are used to switch the MOD/EFX module or the feedback control function on and off during play is called "manual mode". 1. In play mode, select a patch. When you enter manual mode, the [W]/[Q] foot switches are assigned different functions and cannot be used to select patches. Therefore you should select the patch to use before entering manual mode. 2. Press the [MANUAL] key. The [MANUAL] key lights up, and the A2 switches to manual mode. 3. To switch feedback control between on and off, press the [Q] foot switch. The operation of the unit when the [Q] foot switch is pressed depends on feedback control setting value. oF When you press the foot switch, the unit automatically detects the feedback frequency and attenuates it. Pressing the foot switch once more turns feedback control off. At Lit In manual mode, the switches and knobs on the panel function as follows. When you press the foot switch, the feedback control function is turned off. When you press the foot switch once more, the function is turned on again, the unit automatically detects the feedback frequency and attenuates it. 1 - 30 [W] foot switch Switches the MOD/EFX module on and off. [Q] foot switch Switches the feedback control function on and off. Each time you press the foot switch, the feedback control is switched back and forth between on and off. When it is on, the feedback frequency as specified by this numeric setting will be attenuated. 4. Parameter knob 1 Switches the feedback control function on/off and allows manual setting of feedback frequency. To switch the MOD/EFX module between on and off, press the [W] foot switch. To return to play mode, press the [MANUAL] key. The [MANUAL] key goes out and the A2 returns to play mode. 5. HINT · The other controls of the unit operate in the same way as in play mode. · In manual mode, you can also activate edit mode by turning the Module selector. Out 20 ZOOM A2 Using an Optional Foot Switch or Pedal The A2 is equipped with a [CONTROL IN] jack designed for connection of an optional foot switch or expression pedal. This section explains how to use these accessories. Using the foot switch (FS01) Connecting the optional foot switch FS01 to the [CONTROL IN] jack allows functions such as switching banks, performing tap tempo input, and switching the feedback control function on and off. bP (bypass/mute) 1. The foot switch controls bypass or mute on/off. This has the same effect as pressing both [W]/ [Q] foot switches at the same time in play mode or manual mode. tP (tap tempo) Plug the cable from the FS01 into the [CONTROL IN] jack, and then turn the A2 on. Set the Module selector to the "CONTROL" position. 2. Pressing the foot switch repeatedly can be used to set the interval for the rhythm function or to make settings for effect parameters supporting the tap function. bU (bank up) Each push of the foot switch switches to the next higher bank. This has the same effect as pressing the BANK [+] key. The A2 goes into edit mode. You can now make settings for the expression pedal and foot switch. rH (rhythm on/off) 3. Turn parameter knob 2 to select one of the following functions for the foot switch. The foot switch controls start/stop of the rhythm function. This has the same effect as pressing the RHYTHM [R/P] key. dH (delay hold) The foot switch controls on/off of the delay hold function. When a patch using the hold function is selected, pressing the foot switch Original sound Delay sound Hold Foot switch is pressed Foot switch is pressed again ZOOM A2 21 Using an Optional Foot Switch or Pedal will activate hold, causing the current delay sound to be repeated (see illustration below). Pressing the foot switch once more cancels the hold condition, and the delay sound will decay normally. dM (delay input mute) Using the expression pedal (FP01/FP02) Connecting an expression pedal (FP01/FP02) to the [CONTROL IN] jack allows using it as a volume pedal or as a real-time controller for effect parameters. The function assignment for the expression pedal can be saved for each patch individually. For information on parameters that can be adjusted with the expression pedal, refer to pages 27 ­ 34. The foot switch controls input mute on/off for the DELAY module. Mn (manual mode) The foot switch toggles between play mode and manual mode. This has the same effect as pressing the [MANUAL] key. Fb (feedback control) 1. The foot switch toggles the feedback control function between on and off. This has the same effect as pressing the [Q] foot switch in manual mode. For details on the feedback control function, see page 18. HINT · For information on effect parameters supporting the tap function, see pages 27 ­ 34. · To use the hold function, an effect type that supports the hold function must be selected in the patch. For details, see pages 27 ­ 34. · While the DELAY/REVERB module is set to hold or mute, the dot in the center of the display flashes. Plug the cable from the expression pedal into the [CONTROL IN] jack, and then turn the A2 on. Select the patch for which you want to use the expression pedal. 2. 3. Set the Module selector to the "CONTROL" position. The A2 goes into edit mode. Turn parameter knob 1 to select one of the following modulation targets for the expression pedal. 4. Use the foot switch in play mode or manual mode. The switch operates according to the selected setting. This setting applies to all patches, and the most recent value is always active. There is no need to store the setting. 4. oF Pedal is inactive. vL Volume CU, Cd, CH, CL COMP/LIMIT module 22 ZOOM A2 Using an Optional Foot Switch or Pedal tU, td, tH, tL TONE parameter (MODEL module) EU, Ed, EH, EL MOD/EFX module dU, dd, dH, dL DELAY/REVERB module Fb Feedback control frequency HINT · Which parameter changes when the expression pedal is operated depends on the effect type of the selected module. For details, see pages 27 ­ 34. · The way in which the expression pedal changes the parameter can be selected from four patterns ( p. 33). 5. If necessary, store the patch. The expression pedal setting is stored as part of the patch. Select the patch in play mode and operate the expression pedal. The selected function can be used. In the bypass condition, the pedal always functions as a volume pedal, regardless of the selection made in step 4. 6. ZOOM A2 23 Restoring Factory Defaults In the factory default condition, the patches of the user area (A0 - d9) contain the same settings as the patches of the preset area (00 - 39). Even after overwriting the user patches, their original content can be restored in a single operation ("All Initialize" function). Turn the A2 on while holding down the [STORE] key. The indication "AL" appears on the display. 1. AL 2. To carry out the All Initialize function, press the [STORE] key once more. All patch settings are returned to the factory default condition, and the unit switches to play mode. To cancel All Initialize, press the RHYTHM [R/P] key instead of the [STORE] key. NOTE When you carry out All Initialize, any newly created patches that were stored in the user area will be deleted (overwritten). Perform this operation with care to prevent losing any patches that you want to keep. 24 ZOOM A2 Linking Effects The patches of the A2 can be thought of as eight serially linked effect modules, as shown in the illustration below. You can use all effect modules together or selectively set certain modules to off to use just specific effect modules, Effect module MODEL MARTIN DREADNOUGHT GIBSON SUPER JUMBO MARTIN AUDITORIUM GIBSON ROUND SHOULDER TACOMA OVATION NYLON MACCAFERRI DOBRO NATIONAL RESOPHONIC TUBE PRE AMP MIC MIC COMP/LIMIT COMPRESSOR LIMITER LO EQ LO EQ LO PARAMETRIC EQ HI EQ HI EQ HI PARAMETRIC EQ ZNR ZNR MOD/EFX CHORUS STEREO CHORUS CHORUS ENSEMBLE AIR FLANGER RESONATOR DELAY TAPE ECHO REVERSE DELAY DETUNE DELAY/REVERB HALL ROOM SPRING ARENA TILED ROOM MODERN SPRING BRIGHT SLAP REVERB DARK SLAP REVERB EARLY REFLECTION MULTI TAP DELAY DELAY ECHO PINGPONG DELAY Effect type * Manufacturer names and product names mentioned in this table are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners. The names are used only to illustrate sonic characteristics and do not indicate any affiliation with ZOOM CORPORATION. PHASER AUTO WAH TREMOLO STEP For some effect modules, you can select an effect type from several possible choices. For example, the MOD/EFX module comprises CHORUS, FLANGER, and other effect types from which you can choose one. The MODEL module is an effect for simulating the sound of various types of acoustic guitars. Switching effect types here means selecting different guitar body sounds. The GLOBAL module lets you optimize the A2 characteristics to fit the requirements of pickup and guitar amp. It contains the following settings. AMP SELECT This parameter serves to optimize the frequency response of the A2 to fit the type of amplifier. It can be helpful to reduce the trebly sound that can be a problem when playing an acoustic guitar with a pickup through an amplifier. Settings with different effect depth are available for Combo, Stack, and other amp types. PICKUP SELECT This parameter serves to optimize the frequency response of the A2 to fit the type of pickup. It can also be used as a simulator for turning the sound of an electric guitar into that of an acoustic guitar. CONTROL module and GLOBAL module Besides the above modules, the A2 also incorporates a CONTROL module and GLOBAL module. The CONTROL module comprises settings such as expression pedal and foot switch function allocation, as well as the master level that applies to all patches. ZOOM A2 25 Effect Types and Parameters How to read the parameter table Module selector The Module selector symbol shows the position of the selector knob at which this module/parameter is called up. Effect parameters 1 ­ 3 These are the parameters that can be adjusted with parameter knobs 1 - 3 when the effect type is selected. The setting range for each parameter is shown.Three-digit setting values are shown with a dot between the two numerals. Example: 0 - 98, 1.0 = 0 - 98, 100 Effect module MOD/EFX Effect type MOD/EFX (Modulation/Effects) module CH CH Comprises modulation and delay effects such as chorus, wah, delay, and echo. CHORUS This effect mixes a variable pitch-shifted component to the original signal, resulting in full-bodied resonating sound. DEPTH 0 ­ 98, 1.0 RATE 1 ­ 50 MIX 0 ­ 98, 1.0 Adjusts the modulation depth. Adjusts the level of the effect sound mixed to the original sound. Adjusts the modulation rate.