Boss AD8 Owner’s Manual

Owner’s Manual

Thank you, and congratulations on your choice of BOSS AD-8 Acoustic Guitar Processor.

Before using this unit, carefully read the sections entitled:

“USING THE UNIT SAFELY” (page 2–3) 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, this manual should be read in its entirety. The manual should be saved and kept on hand as a convenient reference.

Main Features

●Using “Acoustic modeling,” the unit converts the output from piezo pickups to the sound of a real acoustic guitar, as captured by a high-quality mic.

●COSM modeling recreates the important components of a variety of recording situations. Offered are six world-famous acoustic guitars along with a number of top-quality condenser mics. Now you can always obtain the best acoustic sound, whether performing live or recording in your home studio.

●Built-in “reverb,” developed especially for use with acoustic guitars, lets you produce a wide range of spatial sounds, from the natural airiness to concert hall reverberation.

●Includes “anti-feedback” function that automatically suppresses howling.

●Built-in tuner lets you tune up easily, is ready whenever needed. The output can also be muted with the AD-8’s pedal during tuning.

●“Memory” function allows you to configure up to four groups of settings to suit the material being played or the type of guitar you are using.

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.

Copyright © 2003 BOSS CORPORATION

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the written permission of BOSS CORPORATION.

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 to damage or other adverse effects caused with respect to the home and all its furnishings, as well to domestic animals or pets.

•Before using this unit, make sure to read the

instructions below, and the Owner’s Manual.

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•Do not open (or modify in any way) the unit or its

AC adaptor.

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•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” sheet.

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• 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.

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•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.

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•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.

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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.

•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!

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•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.

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•Do not allow any objects (e.g., flammable material,

coins, pins); or liquids of any kind (water, soft drinks, etc.) to penetrate the unit.

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•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” sheet 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.

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2

•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.

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•Protect the unit from strong impact. (Do not drop it!)

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•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.

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•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.

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•Batteries must never be recharged, heated, taken apart, or thrown into fire or water.

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•The unit and the AC adaptor should be located so

their location or position does not interfere with their proper ventilation.

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•Always grasp only the output plug or the body of

the AC adaptor when plugging into, or unplugging from, this unit or an outlet.

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•At regular intervals, you should unplug the AC

adaptor and clean it by using a dry cloth to wipe all dust and other accumulations away from its prongs. Also, disconnect the power plug from the power outlet whenever the unit is to remain unused for an extended period of time. Any accumulation of dust between the power plug and the power outlet can result in poor insulation and lead to fire.

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•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.

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•Never climb on top of, nor place heavy objects on the unit.

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• Never handle the AC adaptor body, or its output plugs, with wet hands when plugging into, or unplugging from, an outlet or this unit.

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•Before moving the unit, disconnect the AC adaptor

and all cords coming from external devices.

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•Before cleaning the unit, turn off the power and

unplug the AC adaptor from the outlet.

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•Whenever you suspect the possibility of lightning

in your area, disconnect the AC adaptor from the outlet.

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•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. 5).

•Carefully follow the installation instructions for batteries, and make sure you observe the correct

polarity.

•Avoid using new batteries together with used ones. In addition, avoid mixing different types of batteries.

•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.

•Never keep batteries together with metallic objects such as ballpoint pens, necklaces, hairpins, etc.

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•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.

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3

IMPORTANT NOTES

In addition to the items listed under “USING THE UNIT SAFELY” on page 2–3, please read and observe the following:

Power Supply: Use of Batteries

•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).

•The AC adaptor will begin to generate heat after long hours of consecutive use. This is normal, and is not a cause for concern.

•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.

•Batteries should always be installed or replaced before connecting any other devices. This way, you can prevent malfunction and/or damage to speakers or other devices.

•Never use benzine, thinners, alcohol or solvents of any kind, to avoid the possibility of discoloration and/or deformation.

Repairs and Data

•Please be aware that all data contained in the unit’s memory may be lost when the unit is sent for repairs. Important data should always be written down on paper, ”Setting Memo.” During repairs, due care is taken to avoid the loss of data. However, in certain cases (such as when circuitry related to memory itself is out of order), we regret that it may not be possible to restore the data, and Roland assumes no liability concerning such loss of data.

•Batteries are supplied with the unit. The life of these batteries may be limited, however, since their primary purpose was to enable testing.

•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.

Placement

•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.

•This device may interfere with radio and television reception. Do not use this device in the vicinity of such receivers.

•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.

•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.

Maintenance

•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.

Additional Precautions

•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 stored in the unit’s memory written down on paper, ”Setting Memo.”

•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.

•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.

•Never strike or apply strong pressure to the display.

•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.

•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).

•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.

•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.

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Installing Batteries	Contents
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.

•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.

Continuous usage time under battery power is about 23 hours with alkaline batteries and about 9 hours with carbon batteries. (This may vary according to usage conditions.)

USING THE UNIT SAFELY.................	2
IMPORTANT NOTES........................	4
Installing Batteries .........................	5
Connections ...................................	6
Connecting to Mixers ....................................................	6
Mono Connection......................................................	6
Stereo Connection .....................................................	7
Connecting to Acoustic Guitar Amps
or Multitrack Recorders ................................................	7
Mono Connection......................................................	7
Stereo Connection .....................................................	8
Connecting to Electric Guitar Amps...........................	8
Mono Connection......................................................	8
Part Names and Functions .............	9
Front Panel.......................................................................	9
BODY TYPE List......................................................	10
Rear Panel ......................................................................	13
Operation....................................	14
ON/OFF Pedal Operation ...........................................	14
MEMORY t/s Pedal Functions ...................................	14
Panel Operation............................................................	15
Storing Settings (Write Operation)...........................	16
Storing the “MANUAL” Sound in Memory .......	16
Changing and Storing the “MEMORY” Sound ......	16
Setting the Function Used When the
Effects Are Off (Bypass/Mute)...........	17
Changing How Memory Numbers
Are Indicated .................................	17
How to Use the Tuner ..................	18
How to Tune Your Instrument ..................................	18
Changing the Reference Pitch (PITCH)...................	18
How to Use the ANTI-FEEDBACK...	19
Returning Settings
to Their Factory Defaults ..............	20
Troubleshooting...........................	21
Sample Settings ...........................	22
Setting Memo ..............................	23
Specifications...............................	25

5

Connections

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.

*Rise the amp volume only after turning on the power to all connected devices.

*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.

*The pin assignment for the XLR type connectors is as shown below. Before making any connections, make sure that this pin assignment is compatible with that of all your other devices.

*The power comes on when you insert the connector plug into the INPUT jack.

*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.

When powering up:

Turn on the power to your guitar amp last.

When powering down:

Turn off the power to your guitar amp first.

* Always make sure to have the volume level turned down before switching on power. Even with the volume all the way down, you may still hear some sound when the power is switched on, but this is normal, and does not indicate a malfunction.

Connecting to Mixers

Mono Connection

Acoustic Guitar

(Piezo Pickup)

Stereo Headphones

AC Adaptor

(PSA series)

* The same sounds are output from A and B when mono output is used.

Mixer

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Connections

Stereo Connection

Acoustic Guitar

(Piezo Pickup)

Stereo Headphones

AC Adaptor

(PSA series)

Mixer

Connecting to Acoustic Guitar Amps or Multitrack Recorders

Mono Connection

Acoustic Guitar

(Piezo Pickup)

Stereo Headphones

AC Adaptor

(PSA series)

■ Recommended settings for the AC-60

GUITAR CHANNEL

* The AC-60 is designed to produce optimal sound with an electric acoustic guitar connected directly to the unit. You can produce the best results when connecting to the AD-8 by setting the AC-60’s GUITAR CHANNEL as shown in the figure.

Acoustic Guitar Amp

MTR

(Roland AC-60 etc.)

7

Connections

Stereo Connection

Acoustic Guitar

(Piezo Pickup)

Stereo Headphones

AC Adaptor

(PSA series)

■Recommended settings for the AC-60

*The AC-60 is designed to produce optimal sound with an electric acoustic guitar connected directly to the unit. You can produce the best results when connecting to the AD-8 by setting the AC-60’s GUITAR CHANNEL as shown in the figure.

GUITAR CHANNEL

GUITAR CHANNEL

Acoustic Guitar Amp

MTR

(Roland AC-60 etc.)

Connecting to Electric Guitar Amps

Mono Connection

Acoustic Guitar

(Piezo Pickup)

Stereo Headphones

AC Adaptor

(PSA series)

Electric Guitar Amp

8

Graduations for AMBIENCE, ROOM, and HALL on a panel are for reference. Be sure to check the sound as you adjust the effects.

Part Names and Functions

Front Panel

REVERB knob

You can switch this knob to attain any of three different reverb effects. The effect deepens as the knob is turned to the right.

No effects are applied with this is switched to OFF.

AMBIENCE:

This provides a sense of distance in the sound, like that obtained with off-mic recording.

ROOM:

This provides reverb like that obtained in a recording studio.

HALL:

This provides reverb like that obtained in a concert hall.

*

EQULIZER

BASS knob	TREBLE knob
This adjusts the balance of the	This adjusts the balance of the
lower range.	upper range.

MIDDLE GAIN knob

This adjusts the balance of the midrange.

MIDDLE FREQ (frequency) knob

This specifies the frequency band to be adjusted with the MIDDLE GAIN knob. The band can be specified within the range from 200 Hz to 1.6 kHz.

PRESENCE knob

This adjusts the balance of the frequencies that are even higher than those adjusted with the TREBLE knob.

OUTPUT LEVEL knob

This adjusts the output volume level.

*The OUTPUT LEVEL knob only adjusts the volume pertaining to times when the effects are on. When

the effects are switched off, the

volume remains at a fixed level (bypass or mute).

STRING ENHANCE knob

Allows you to bring out more of the

pleasant overtones of the guitar strings. Especially effective with finger picking.

BODY TYPE knob

Select the setting that is closest to the straight, unaffected sound of the guitar you are using.

“BODY TYPE List” (p. 10)

POWER indicator

This is lit while the power is on.

*When the batteries run down, this indicator gets dim. If this happens, replace with new batteries.

BODY knob

This adjusts the sound the body puts out.

Turn this knob completely to the left to obtain 100% piezo pickup sound (STRING ENHANCE, EQUALIZER, and REVERB active). The proportion of piezo pickup sound relative to modeled sound changes as the knob is turned up towards the center position. Placing the knob at the center position produces 100% modeled sound.

Turning the knob even further to the right enhances the body-sound content of the modeled guitar.

*Increasing the BODY setting also raises the output level. If the sound becomes distorted, lower the output volume level with the OUTPUT LEVEL knob.

Piezo Pickup	Body-Sound
Sound	Content
Modeled Sound

9