Page 1
Reference Manual
Contents
Panel descriptions ........................................ 2
Top panel ................................................... 2
Rear panel (connecting your equipment) ....................... 3
Installing the batteries ..................................... 3
Outputting sound ........................................ 4
Turning the power on/o ..................................... 4
Setting the connected device type ............................. 4
Selecting a bass amp type (output select) ...................... 4
Adjusting the volume (output level) ........................... 4
Tuning your bass (tuner) ...................................... 4
Eect signal chain ............................................ 5
Signal ow .................................................. 5
Saving/recalling sounds (memory mode) ................... 6
How the memories are structured ............................. 6
Switching between manual/memory mode ..................... 6
Setting what happens when switching from memory mode to
manual mode ................................................ 6
Selecting a sound (memory) .................................. 6
Checking the knob positions ................................ 6
Conguring what happens when switching banks ............. 7
Saving a sound (memory write) ............................... 7
Changing the settings for sounds (memory edit mode) .......... 7
Useful functions .......................................... 8
Adding eects that follow your tempo (tap tempo) .............. 8
Setting the modulation speed or delay time with the pedal ...... 8
Performing with phrase loops ................................. 9
Conguring the [CTL] (control) pedal functions ................. 10
Setting the pedal function .................................. 10
Conguring the pedal operations ............................ 10
Connecting to and using an external eect unit via
the SEND/RETURN jacks ...................................... 11
Calibrating the expression pedal .............................. 11
Connecting to your computer via USB ...................... 12
Installing the USB driver ...................................... 12
Transmitting/receiving audio signals between your computer
and the ME-90B (USB audio) .................................. 12
Transmitting/receiving MIDI data between a computer and the
ME-90B (USB MIDI) ........................................... 13
Loading IR data to use this unit as a speaker simulator ........... 13
Wireless connection with a mobile device .................. 14
Attaching the BT-DUAL ....................................... 14
Listening to sound via wireless connection with a mobile device .. 14
Registering a mobile device (pairing) ......................... 14
Connecting an already-paired mobile device .................. 15
Disabling Bluetooth functionality ............................. 15
Controlling the ME-90B from the dedicated app on your mobile
device ...................................................... 15
Connecting to the dedicated app ............................ 15
Operating the ME-90B wirelessly with an EV-1-WL/FS-1-WL ..... 15
Conguring the device overall (system settings) ............ 16
Parameter list ................................................ 16
Restoring the factory settings (factory reset) ............... 17
Troubleshooting ......................................... 18
Main specications ....................................... 19
© 2024 Roland Corporation
01
Page 2
Panel descriptions
Top panel
1
1
Eect conguration knobs
Use these knobs to congure the various eects built into the
ME-90B.
* For details on the eect parameters, refer to the “ME-90B
Parameter Guide” (BOSS website).
2
Display
Shows various information for the ME-90B.
MEMO
When the batteries are running low, the BATTERY LOW
indicator blinks on the display.
Replace the batteries with new ones.
2
3
7
4 5 6
6
Pedal switch
Switches between banks and memories when the unit is in
memory mode. In manual mode, this turns each eect on/o.
When in memory mode
Use the pedal switches to switch between banks and memories.
Switch Function
[BANK É], [BANK Ç]
[1]–[4] Switches between memories.
[CTL]
Switches between banks.
Performs the operation that’s set in
“Conguring the [CTL] (control) pedal
functions” (p. 10).
3
[EXIT], [WRITE], [CTL], [EDIT] buttons
Button Explanation
[EXIT]
[WRITE]
[CTL]
[EDIT] Enters memory edit mode (p. 7).
4
Expression pedal
Press the toe end of the pedal to switch the pedal eect on/o
(the PEDAL FX indicator turns on/o).
Pedal eect Indicator Pedal operation
O Unlit Volume pedal
On Lit
* When you operate the expression pedal, please be careful not
to get your ngers pinched between the movable part and the
unit. In places where small children are present, make sure that an
adult provides supervision and guidance.
5
[MEMORY/MANUAL] pedal
Switches between memory mode and manual mode (p. 6).
Keep this pressed for two seconds or more to turn the tuner on
(p. 4).
Press to return to the previous screen or to undo an
operation.
Press to save your memory settings or to execute a
copy operation (p. 6).
In memory mode, this congures the operation of
the [CTL] pedal (p. 6).
Controls the eect (such as wah) that
you set using the [PEDAL FX] knob.
When in manual mode
Use the pedal switches to individually switch each eect (COMP/
FX1, FILTER/FX2, DRIVE/SYNTH, AMP/EQ, MOD, DLY/REV, BLEND)
on/o.
What is “memory mode”?
The eect combinations and settings (sounds) are recalled as
“memories”. There are 72 memories.
Out of the 72 memories, 36 (4 memories × 9 banks) can be saved
in the user banks (9 banks of presets and 9 user banks).
You can use the pedal to instantly switch between banks and
memories.
What is “manual mode”?
This mode lets you use the pedals to turn each eect on/o.
This lets you use this unit as if you were individually switching the
compact eects on an eect unit board on/o.
7
[OUTPUT LEVEL] knob
Adjusts the signal volume from the OUTPUT and PHONES jacks.
* This does not adjust the volume for the BALANCED OUTPUT
connector.
2
Page 3
2: HOT1: GND
3: COLD
Rear panel (connecting your equipment)
12
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
1
BALANCED OUTPUT connector
Connect this to your PA mixer or other audio equipment.
The output from this connector is always set to “LINE”, regardless
of the [AMP/LINE] switch setting.
* Pin assignment of BALANCED OUTPUT connector
2
[GND/LIFT] switch
You can lift pin #1 (GND) of the BALANCED OUTPUT connector
from the ground loop of the ME-90B.
Switch this to “LIFT” if you hear humming or noise as a result of
ground loop. Normally, this should be set to “GND”.
3
INPUT jack
Connect your bass guitar here.
4
OUTPUT jacks
Connect these to your bass guitar amp, mixer or other audio
equipment. For a mono connection, use only the L/MONO jack.
Panel descriptions
10
[POWER] switch
This switches the power on and o (p. 4).
11
DC IN jack
Accepts connection of an AC adaptor (BOSS PSA-S series; sold
separately).
* Use the cord hook to secure the cord of the AC adaptor as shown
in the illustration.
* To prevent malfunction and equipment failure, always turn
down the volume, and turn o all the units before making any
connections.
12
Ground terminal
Connect this to an external earth or ground if necessary.
5
[AMP/LINE] switch
Set this to “AMP” when connecting this unit to a bass guitar amp.
Set this to “LINE” when connecting this unit to a mixer or powered
speakers. This ensures the optimum output to match the
connected device.
6
PHONES jack
Connect a pair of headphones or a recorder (sold separately) with
a stereo mini plug here. Set the [AMP/LINE] switch to “LINE”.
7
SEND/RETURN jacks
Connect an external eect unit here.
You can connect an external eect unit between the SEND jack
and RETURN jack, and use it as one of the ME-90B’s eect units
(p. 11).
8
Bluetooth ADAPTOR jack
Connect the Bluetooth® Audio MIDI Dual Adaptor (part number
BT-DUAL, sold separately) to wirelessly play back music from your
mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet (hereafter “mobile
device”), or to edit the eects using an app on your mobile device
(p. 14).
Use the volume control on your audio player to adjust the volume
of signal output received from the OUTPUT jacks and PHONES jack.
9
USB COMPUTER port
Connect this port to your computer via USB cable. This lets you
transmit/receive audio signals between the ME-90B and your
computer, use the ME-90B dedicated app to edit the sounds and
so on (p. 12).
* Do not use a USB cable that is designed only for charging a device.
Charge-only cables cannot transmit data.
Installing the batteries
Install the batteries into the battery case at the bottom of this unit.
Make sure that the batteries face the right way.
+ –
+–
+ –
+–
* When turning the unit over, be careful so as to protect the buttons
and knobs from damage. Also, handle the unit carefully; do not
drop it.
* We recommend that you keep batteries installed in the unit even
though you’ll be powering it with the AC adaptor. That way, you’ll
be able to continue a performance even if the cord of the AC
adaptor gets accidently disconnected from the unit.
* If you handle the battery (batteries) improperly, you risk explosion
and uid leakage. Make sure that you carefully observe all of the
items related to the battery (batteries) that are listed in “USING
THE UNIT SAFELY” and “IMPORTANT NOTES” (leaet “USING THE
UNIT SAFELY”).
3
Page 4
Outputting sound
Turning the power on/o
* Before turning the unit on/o, always be sure to turn the volume
down. Even with the volume turned down, you might hear some
sound when switching the unit on/o. However, this is normal
and does not indicate a malfunction.
Turning the power on
1. Press the ME-90B’s [POWER] switch to turn on the
power.
2. Turn on your bass amp that’s connected.
Turning the power o
1. Check the following before turning the power o.
¹ Is the volume turned down to minimum on all connected devices?
¹ Have you saved any memories that you’ve edited? (p. 7)
2. Turn o your bass amp and other devices
connected to this unit.
3. Press the ME-90B’s [POWER] switch to turn o the
power.
NOTE
When the power is turned o, any settings you were editing will
be lost. You must save settings that you want to keep.
Adjusting the volume (output level)
1. Use the [OUTPUT LEVEL] knob to adjust the overall
volume.
Tuning your bass (tuner)
1. Hold down the [MEMORY/MANUAL] pedal for at
least two seconds.
This turns the tuner on. The MEMORY/MANUAL indicator lights up
yellow.
2. Adjust the reference pitch if necessary.
The reference pitch is shown when you press the [EDIT] button.
The pitch increases each time you press the button, from 435 Hz
to 445 Hz. If the pitch is already 445 Hz and you press the button,
the pitch returns to 435 Hz.
If you don’t press the [EDIT] button within two seconds, the unit
returns to regular tuner mode.
Display Pitch
35–45
MEMO
¹ The reference pitch is shown for a certain amount of time in the
display.
¹ The reference pitch is saved, so you don’t need to set it each time
you tune your bass guitar.
¹ This is set to “40” (440 Hz) when using the factory settings.
435–445 (Hz)
Setting the connected device type
Set the [AMP/LINE] switch according to the device you’re using.
Setting Explanation
LINE
AMP When connecting a bass amp
When connecting a mixer, powered speakers or
headphones
Selecting a bass amp type (output select)
1. Press the [MEMORY/MANUAL] pedal to switch to
manual mode (p. 6).
2. Press the [EDIT] button.
3. Use the [BANK É] [BANK Ç] pedals to select the
type of bass amp (1–2).
Display Explanation
1
2
4. Press the [WRITE] button.
This saves the settings.
Use this setting when connecting to a tweeter-equipped
bass amp.
Use this setting when connecting to a bass amp that has no
tweeter.
3. Play a single note on the open string you want to
tune.
The name of the pitch that’s closest to the string you played is
shown in the display.
(C)
(F)
(# symbol)
(G)
(D)
(A)
(E)
(B)
4. Adjust the tuning of each bass guitar string so that
both tuning guides are illuminated.
Pitch is at Pitch is sharp
(blinks quickly) (blinks quickly)
In tune
5. To turn the tuner o, press any pedal switch.
Output settings when using the tuner
When the tuner is on, you can set whether to output the audio
from the OUTPUT/PHONES/BALANCED OUTPUT jacks and
connector or not.
For details, refer to “Conguring the device overall (system
settings)” (p. 16).
* If you’ve switched the audio output on, you can use the
expression pedal to adjust the volume.
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Page 5
Eect signal chain
The signal chain (how the eects are generally connected) on the ME-90B is shown below.
EFFECT CHAIN
Outputting sound
Bass guitar
PEDAL FX COMP/FX1
FILTER/FX2
DRIVE/
SYNTH
SEND/
RETURN
PREAMP/EQ
NS
FOOT
VOLUME
Bass guitar amp
MOD
DLY/REV
BLEND
The signal chain is automatically optimized to match the eect type that’s selected. You can change the SEND/RETURN to come after the PREAMP/
EQ. For details, refer to “Conguring the device overall (system settings)” (p. 16).
* For details on the eect parameters, refer to the “ME-90B Parameter Guide” (BOSS website).
Eect Explanation
Lets you achieve various eects using the expression pedal on this unit.
PEDAL FX
You can turn the pedal eect on/o by pushing the expression pedal up with your weight on your toes.
When the pedal eect is o, the expression pedal works as a volume pedal.
COMP/FX1 Averages out the volume, giving a sustained sound without distortion. You can also select from a variety of unique eects.
FILTER/FX2 Produces a wah eect as you open and close the lter.
DRIVE/SYNTH Distorts or processes the input audio to create a synth-like sound.
SEND/RETURN You can connect an external eect unit to the SEND and RETURN jacks, and use it as one of the ME-90B’s eects.
PREAMP/EQ Models the characteristics of a preamp. This also adjusts the tonal character of the sound.
NS Reduces the noise and hum picked up by bass pickups.
FOOT VOLUME When the pedal eect is o, the expression pedal works as a volume pedal.
MOD Adds spaciousness or an undulating character to the sound.
DLY/REV
Delays the sound to create an echo-like eect. Use this to add thickness or for tricky-sounding eects.
You can also use this to add reverberations to the sound.
BLEND Adjusts the volume of the direct sound.
Signal ow
The signal ow on the ME-90B is as follows.
EFFECT
CHAIN
Bass guitar
TUNER
MUTE
THRU VOL PEDAL
TUNER OFF
TUNER ON
Bluetooth
AUDIO
OUTPUT
L/MONO
OUTPUT R
OUTPUT LEVEL
PHONES
BALANCED
OUTPUT
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Page 6
Saving/recalling sounds (memory mode)
With memory mode, you can save the sound settings to this unit, and recall what you saved afterwards.
In contrast, “manual mode” lets you switch each eect on/o using the pedals.
How the memories are structured
A combination of eects and the parameter settings is called a
“memory”.
The ME-90B can store 72 dierent memories. These memories are
organized by bank and number as shown below.
Preset bank 9
Preset bank 1
Read-only (cannot be overwritten).
User bank 9
User bank 1
Write/read OK
Each memory within a bank corresponds to a numbered pedal.
Switching between manual/memory
Selecting a sound (memory)
Use the [BANKÉ] [BANKÇ] pedals and the numbered [1]–[4] pedals
to recall (switch between) memories.
1. Press the [BANKÉ] [BANKÇ] pedals to select the
bank number.
Display Bank
U1–U9
P1–P9
2. Press one of the numbered [1]–[4] pedals.
The patch switches to the memory of the bank number you
selected in step 1.
User banks
Preset banks
mode
1. Press the [MEMORY/MANUAL] pedal.
Press this pedal to toggle between manual mode and memory
mode.
Memory mode Lit red
Manual mode Lit blue
Setting what happens when switching from memory mode to manual mode
When switching from memory to manual mode, you can select
whether the sound switches according to the knob settings on the
panel, or whether the memory mode sound carries over.
For details on how to congure the settings, refer to “Conguring the
device overall (system settings)” (p. 16).
Display Explanation
N0
N1
When you switch to manual mode, the current knob settings
are applied to the sound.
When you switch to manual mode, the memory mode
settings are carried over.
You can turn the individual eects on/o while using the
same memory mode settings (factory settings).
The manual mode settings are retained when you switch
from manual to memory mode.
MEMO
When selecting a memory within the same bank, you can skip step 1.
Checking the knob positions
When you recall a sound (memory) in memory mode (p. 6), the
value of the parameters you’re setting may dier from the position
indicated by the knobs.
You can make the actual parameter value show up in the display, so
that you can check it.
1. Hold down the [EDIT] button and turn the knob for
the parameter you want to check.
The knob value is shown in the display.
When the knob’s position and value match, the tuning guides on
both sides of the display light up.
49
6
Page 7
Saving/recalling sounds (memory mode)
Conguring what happens when switching
banks
For switching banks using the [BANKÉ] [BANKÇ] pedals, you can
select whether to instantly switch to the next memory, or instead
to wait before switching to the next memory until you press a
numbered pedal.
For details on the settings, refer to ““Conguring the device overall
(system settings)” (p. 16)”.
Display Explanation
Pressing the bank pedal to switch banks only changes the
bank shown in the display, without actually switching to a
h0
h1
dierent memory.
Both the bank and number are conrmed right when you
press a numbered pedal, and the unit switches to the next
memory (factory settings).
The unit switches instantly to the next memory when a bank
or numbered pedal is pressed.
Saving a sound (memory write)
Here’s how to save the current knob settings to a memory.
NOTE
¹ If you turn o the power or switch to a dierent memory before
you write the memory, the sound you created is lost.
¹ When you write a memory, the memory that is already at the save
destination is lost.
3. Press the [WRITE] button again.
All sound settings except for OUTPUT LEVEL are saved.
MEMO
¹ You can write memories in either manual mode or memory mode.
¹ Once you write a memory, the unit switches to memory mode.
Copying memories
To copy a memory, recall the memory (p. 6) and then write it.
You can copy the memory by selecting the copy destination memory
number and then saving.
Changing the settings for sounds (memory edit mode)
You can’t switch the eects on/o in memory mode. If you want to
switch the eects on/o or edit the sound (memory) settings, use
memory edit mode.
1. Follow the steps in “Selecting a sound (memory)”
(p. 6) to recall the memory whose settings you
want to edit.
2. Press the [EDIT] button.
1. Press the [WRITE] button.
The pedal indicator blinks.
Display
Pedal indicators
2. Select the user bank and memory number to save
to (the save destination).
¹ Press the [BANKÉ] [BANKÇ] pedals to select the user bank
number (U1–U9).
¹ Select the memory number by pressing the numbered [1]–[4]
pedals.
The display indicates “Ed”, and the unit switches to memory edit
mode.
3. Use the knobs, pedals and buttons to edit the
sound.
The pedal switches toggle the eects on/o in memory edit
mode, just as with manual mode.
4. To save an edited sound, follow the steps in “Saving
a sound (memory write)” (p. 7) to save the
memory.
If you turn o the power or switch to a dierent memory before
you write the memory, the sound you created is lost.
* To cancel memory write, press the [EXIT] button.
7
Page 8
Useful functions
Adding eects that follow your tempo
(tap tempo)
By pressing the pedal in time with the tempo you play at, you can set
the delay to play back in time, in dotted eighth note or quarter note
intervals.
MEMO
This explanation applies when you’re in manual mode. In memory
mode, use the numbered pedal for the currently selected memory to
perform the same operation.
1. Set the DLY/REV type knob to “TEMPO”.
The pedal indicator blinks in time with the delay time that’s
currently set.
2. Set the [TIME] knob to “ņ” or “Ň”.
This selects the rhythm for the delay sound you want.
1
2
3. Press the [DLY/REV] pedal two or more times, in
time with the tempo.
The delay timing is set according to the interval in which you
press the pedal.
For instance, if you press the pedal in quarter note intervals, a
dotted eighth note or quarter note delay time is set. The pedal
indicator blinks in time with the tempo.
Timing for
pressing the pedal
Delay sound
timing
Setting the modulation speed or delay time with the pedal
You can use the knob to adjust the modulation speed (cycle) or delay
time, and you can use the pedal to set the timing you like.
MEMO
¹ This explanation applies when you’re in manual mode. In memory
mode, use the numbered pedal for the currently selected memory
to perform the same operation.
¹ You can only set the delay time when the unit is in memory mode
and both the MOD and DLY/REV eects are on.
1. Use the type knob to select the MOD or DLY/REV
type.
MEMO
When using the MOD or DLY/REV eect and one of the following
types is selected, you can’t make settings using the pedal.
Eect Types that cannot be selected with the pedal
COMP
MOD
DELAY
*1 These eects can be selected from the ME-90B “BOSS TONE STUDIO for
ME-90B” dedicated app (p. 13).
2. Hold down the [MOD] or [DLY/REV] pedal for two or
more seconds.
PRE EQ *1, POST EQ *1
OVERTONE *1
TERA ECHO
PHRASE LOOP
ROOM
HALL
PLATE
or
SHIMMER
WARP *1
TWIST *1
GLITCH *1
TIME setting
* To turn the delay o, press the [DLY/REV] pedal for two or more
seconds.
8
The pedal indicator starts blinking two seconds after you press
the pedal.
3. Press the [MOD] or [DLY/REV] pedal two or more
times at the desired speed.
The eect speed is set according to the interval at which you
pressed the pedal.
The pedal indicator blinks in time with the modulation cycle or
delay sound.
4. Hold down the [MOD] or [DLY/REV] pedal for two or
more seconds again.
This completes the speed setting, and the eect turns on. The
pedal indicator remains lit.
MEMO
If you move the [RATE] or [TIME] knob after nishing the settings, the
eect timing you set with the pedal is disregarded, and the timing
you set with the knobs is given priority.
Page 9
Useful functions
Performing with phrase loops
You can record up to 38 seconds of a performance and play back the recorded section over and over. You can also layer additional performances
with the recording as it plays back (overdubbing). This gives a unique eect if you keep playing what you recorded in the background and then
play on top of that, for example.
MEMO
This explanation applies when you’re in manual mode. In memory mode, use the numbered pedal for the currently selected memory to perform
the same operation.
1. Set the DLY/REV type knob to “PHRASE LOOP”.
The unit enters record standby mode, and the pedal indicator
blinks white at a xed interval.
2. Press the [DLY/REV] pedal.
Recording starts right when you press the [DLY/REV] pedal (the
pedal indicator lights up red).
3. Press the [DLY/REV] pedal again.
Recording ends.
Once recording ends, your recorded content plays back in a loop
(the pedal indicator lights up blue).
4. To overdub, repeat steps 2 and 3.
The pedal indicator lights up yellow during overdubbing.
MEMO
Your recorded content is erased when you change the type knob
setting or turn the power o.
5. Use the [E. LEVEL] knob to adjust the playback
volume.
6. To end loop playback, quickly press the [DLY/REV]
pedal twice.
The unit returns to playback standby mode, and the pedal
indicator blinks blue.
7. Press the [DLY/REV] pedal to start playback.
8. To erase what you recorded, long-press the [DLY/
REV] pedal.
The pedal indicator blinks white, and the unit enters record
standby mode.
MEMO
When you press the [DLY/REV] pedal twice, the second press must
be within one second of the rst.
MEMO
The phrase loop may result in an oscillating sound if your
recording is extremely short.
Recording
Recording starts right when
you press the [DLY/REV] pedal.
At the point where you want
to loop, press the pedal to
switch to playback.
Pedal indicator colors/statuses
Status Indication
Standby
Recording Lit red
Overdubbing Lit yellow
Loop playback Lit blue
Blinking white (no phrase)
Blinking blue (phrase exists)
Loop playback
The loop plays back.
Pressing the [DLY/REV]
pedal switches the unit to
overdubbing.
Overdubbing
Record additional layers while
the loop plays back.
Pressing the [DLY/REV] pedal
switches the unit to playback.
Stop/clear
Quickly press the [DLY/REV]
pedal twice to stop.
Long-press the [DLY/REV] pedal
to clear the phrase.
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Page 10
Useful functions
Conguring the [CTL] (control) pedal
functions
In memory mode on the ME-90B, you can use the [CTL] pedal to
turn multiple eects on/o at once, or instantly switch the value of a
specied eect setting knob (one knob only) to a specic value.You
can store the [CTL] pedal settings for each memory.
Setting the pedal function
1. Press the [MEMORY/MANUAL] pedal to switch to
memory mode (p. 6).
2. Press the [CTL] button to switch
to CTL setting mode.
For turning the eects on/o
3. Press the pedal corresponding to the eect you
want to toggle on/o to select it.
CTL setting mode indications
• If eects are congured to toggle on/o, “Ct” is shown in the
display when the unit enters CTL setting mode, and the pedal
indicators corresponding to the eects set for on/o blink.
The pedal indicator of the eect for
which on/o is toggled blinks.
• When a particular knob value is set, the corresponding eect
indicator blinks when you enter CTL setting mode. Also, “Ct” and
the number of the knob for which the value is set are alternately
shown in the display.
Indicators for eects blink for which a
knob value is set.
1- 2- 3- 4- 5-
1- 1- 1- 1-2- 2- 2- 2-3- 3- 3- 3-
1- 2- 3- 4-
Display
Display (shown alternately)
1-
Knob number
To cancel the selection, press the pedal again.
The pedal indicator for the eect you want to toggle on/o blinks.
MEMO
You can select BLEND to toggle the SEND/RETURN on/o, instead of
using it for BLEND. For details, refer to “Conguring the device overall
(system settings)” (p. 16).
For setting the value of a certain knob
3. Adjust the knob whose value you wish to change to
the value you like.
To cancel the setting, set the [CTL] pedal to turn the eects on/o.
* You can’t set the type knob values for the respective eects.
MEMO
You can press the [MEMORY/MANUAL] pedal to check the eects
that you set before you write the memory.
To disable the [CTL] pedal function, turn all settings o.
4. Follow the steps in “Saving a sound (memory
write)” (p. 7) to save the settings.
Conguring the pedal operations
You can select whether the eects you set in step 3 are toggled each
time you press the pedal (TOGGLE), or whether the eects are only
applied while the pedal is being pressed (MOMENTARY).
1. From memory mode, press the [CTL] button two
times.
This switches to the TOGGLE/MOMENTARY setting mode.
2. Use the [BANK É] [BANK Ç] pedals to select a
setting.
Display Setting Explanation
to
No
TOGGLE
MOMENTARY
3. Press the [CTL] button again.
4. Follow the steps in “Saving a sound (memory
write)” (p. 7) to save the settings.
MEMO
The indicator lit/unlit state for the [CTL] pedal is linked with the
indicator of the eect that has the highest priority (according to the
internal order of priority) within the eects that are toggled on/o.
The order of priority is as follows.
COMP/FX1 > FILTER/FX2 > DRIVE/SYNTH > DLY/REV > PREAMP/EQ >
MOD > BLEND > PEDAL FX > SEND/RETURN
The eect switches each time you press
the pedal (this is the default setting for
eect on/o).
The eect you set is applied only while
you are pressing the pedal (this is the
default setting when the pedal is set to
change the knob values).
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Useful functions
Connecting to and using an external
eect unit via the SEND/RETURN jacks
You can connect an external eect unit between the SEND jack and
RETURN jack, and use it as one of the ME-90B’s eect units.
To do this, connect the SEND jack to output the ME-90B’s sound to
the input of your eect unit. Connect the output of the external
eect unit to the RETURN jack (input) of the ME-90B.
You can change the SEND/RETURN insertion point and the footswitch
on/o function in the system settings (p. 16).
Using the factory setting, the SEND/RETURN is inserted before
PREAMP in the signal chain, and is turned on.
If an external eect unit is not connected to the RETURN jack, no
sound is output from the SEND jack.
MEMO
¹ Hold down the [EDIT] button and press the [CTL] pedal to toggle
SEND/RETURN on/o.
¹ You can store the SEND/RETURN on/o state for each memory.
Display Setting
0
1
O
On
Calibrating the expression pedal
Although the ME-90B’s expression pedal has been set for optimum
operation at the factory, extended use and the operating
environment can result in the pedal going out of adjustment.
If you experience issues such as the expression pedal switch not
responding or not being able to fully minimize the sound with the
volume pedal, calibrate the expression pedal.
1. Press the [MEMORY/MANUAL] pedal to switch to
manual mode (p. 6).
2. Hold down the [DLY/REV] button and press the
[DELAY] pedal.
The display indicates “Pd” Ó “Up”.
3. Press down on the heel end of the expression
pedal and take your foot o, and press the [WRITE]
button.
“dn” is shown on the display.
4. Press the toe end of the expression pedal and take
your foot o, and press the [WRITE] button.
The responsiveness (sensitivity) of the current expression pedal
switch is shown in the display.
Value: 1–9
MEMO
If you press the [WRITE] button in steps 3 and 4 without fully
pressing the pedal with your toes, the indication in the display
blinks. If the display indication blinks, press the expression pedal
down all the way and then press the [WRITE] button.
5. Use the [BANKÉ] and [BANKÇ] pedals to adjust
the responsiveness (sensitivity) of the expression
pedal switch.
Lower values make the pedal switch more responsive (lighter).
If you press down with your toes on the expression pedal, the
PEDAL FX indicator lights up.
6. Press the [WRITE] button.
The settings are saved.
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Connecting to your computer via USB
[MIX IN]
The ME-90B can transmit/receive digital audio signals and MIDI messages to and from a computer via USB.
USB COMPUTER port
Installing the USB driver
You can use the dedicated driver to record, playback and edit audio with high quality at a stable timing, as well as control the ME-90B via MIDI
data.
Download the dedicated ME-90B driver from the BOSS website (https://www.boss.info/support/).
Install the dedicated driver before making a USB connection.
The program you need to use and the steps you need to take to install the driver depend on your computer setup. Please carefully read and refer
to the “Readme” le included with the download.
Transmitting/receiving audio signals between your computer and the ME-90B (USB audio)
You can use your computer to record the sound of the ME-90B, or output your computer’s audio from the OUTPUT jacks, the PHONES jack and the
BALANCED OUTPUT connector on the ME-90B.
You can select from two USB audio inputs ([INPUT] and [MIX IN]) and two outputs ([OUTPUT] and [DRY OUT]).
USB audio ow
[INPUT]
USB IN
INPUT
Bass guitar
USB
LOOP BACK
EFFECT
CHAIN
USB LEVEL
USB DIRECT
MONITOR
[OUTPUT]
[DRY OUT]
USB OUT
OUTPUT
L/MONO
OUTPUT
R
PHONES
BALANCED
OUTPUT
* Refer to the instruction manual for the software you are using to learn how to switch the input source of the software.
USB audio settings
You can change the audio signal ow to match your needs. For details on how to congure the settings, refer to “Conguring the device overall
(system settings)” (p. 16).
Parameter Explanation
USB LEVEL Adjusts the level of audio input from your computer, which is mixed with the sound that passes through the ME-90B’s eects.
USB DIRECT MONITOR
USB LOOPBACK Switches between outputting the input audio from the computer to USB OUT or not.
12
Selects whether the sound of the ME-90B is output from the OUTPUT jacks, the PHONES jack and the BALANCED OUTPUT
connector.
Page 13
Connecting to your computer via USB
Transmitting/receiving MIDI data between a computer and the ME-90B (USB MIDI)
You can use DAW software on your computer or the ME-90B
dedicated app to control the ME-90B, for editing sounds and
managing memories.
Using the ME-90B dedicated app
The following operations are available from the “BOSS TONE STUDIO
for ME-90B” dedicated app.
¹ Edit the settings for the user bank memories
¹ Give the user bank memories a name
¹ Reorder and swap the user bank memories
¹ Easily download memories from a memory download website
¹ Save the user bank memories and system settings as a backup,
and restore the backup settings
¹ You can also select eects that are only available via the BOSS
TONE STUDIO for ME-90B dedicated app.
¹ You can launch an IR loader to import IR (Impulse Response) data.
Download the dedicated app from the BOSS website (https://www.
boss.info/support/).
Loading IR data to use this unit as a speaker simulator
You can use the dedicated IR loader (software) to load IR (Impulse
Response) data into this unit for simulating speakers.
The dedicated IR loader can be launched from the dedicated app,
BOSS TONE STUDIO for ME-90B.
For details on how to load the data, refer to the “Using BOSS TONE
STUDIO for ME-90B” (BOSS website).
You can select the speaker simulator by pressing the [1] [2] [3] [4]
pedals while holding down the [EDIT] button.
Press and hold
Switching between memory numbers
The current memory on the ME-90B changes at the same time that
this unit receives a program change message from DAW software or
another source.
Receiving control change messages
This unit can receive control change messages to control specied
parameters while you’re playing.
Data that can be transmitted/received via MIDI
Pedal
Expression pedal CC#11 0–127
Pedal eect on/o
(EXP SW)
[CTL] pedal CC#80
Control change
message
CC#82
Value
On: 127
O: 0
When the pedal is pressed: 127
When the pedal is released: 0
Pedal Display Speaker simulator
[1]
[2]
[3]
[4]
* IR data is not included in USER 1–3 with the factory settings.
MEMO
You can select and store the speaker simulator for each memory.
Set the [AMP/LINE] switch for the best output to match the output
destination.
0
1
2
3
Uses the original speaker simulator built into
the ME-90B, which is tuned to each preamp
type (factory settings).
Uses the IR data loaded into USER 1.
Uses the IR data loaded into USER 2.
Uses the IR data loaded into USER 3.
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Wireless connection with a mobile device
Attach the Bluetooth® Audio MIDI Dual Adaptor (BT-DUAL, sold separately) to the ME-90B to wirelessly play back music from your mobile device,
or to edit the eects of this unit from the dedicated app installed on your mobile device.
Attaching the BT-DUAL
Attach the BT-DUAL to the Bluetooth ADAPTOR jack of the ME-90B.
1. Before attaching the BT-DUAL, turn o the ME-90B
and unplug the AC adaptor from the AC outlet.
2. Remove the cover and screw from the Bluetooth
ADAPTOR jack on the rear panel.
3. Attach the BT-DUAL and fasten the screw that you
removed in step 2 in place.
Make sure that the screw hole on the ME-90B is aligned with the
screw hole on the BT-DUAL when attaching.
Listening to sound via wireless connection with a mobile device
Bluetooth® audio functionality
You can output music played from your Bluetooth audio-capable
mobile device from the OUTPUT jacks or the PHONES jack of the
ME-90B.
This signal is not output to the BALANCED OUTPUT connector.
Registering a mobile device (pairing)
“Pairing” involves registering the mobile device that you want to use
with the ME-90B (making the two devices recognize each other).
Here we’ll congure the settings so that music data saved on your
mobile device can be played wirelessly via the ME-90B.
MEMO
The explanation below uses the iPhone as an example. For details,
refer to the owner’s manual of your mobile device.
1. Turn on the power of the ME-90B.
NOTE
¹ Be sure to use only the screw that was originally mounted on the
Bluetooth ADAPTOR jack. If you use a dierent screw, the unit may
malfunction.
¹ Do not touch any of the printed circuit pathways or connection
terminals.
¹ When circuit board installation is complete, double-check your
work.
2. Place the mobile device that you want to connect
nearby the ME-90B.
3. Hold down the pairing button on the BT-DUAL until
the Bluetooth indicator blinks rapidly.
Bluetooth indicator
4. Turn on the Bluetooth function of the mobile
device.
5. Tap “ME-90B Audio” shown on the Bluetooth device
screen of your mobile device.
This pairs the BT-DUAL with your mobile device.
When pairing succeeds, “ME-90B Audio” is added to the list of “MY
DEVICES” on your mobile device.
* If you don’t complete the pairing within a certain time, the
Bluetooth indicator goes dark and the unit exits pairing standby
mode.
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Wireless connection with a mobile device
Connecting an already-paired mobile device
1. With the BT-DUAL’s Bluetooth indicator o, press
the pairing button.
2. Turn on the Bluetooth function of the mobile
device.
MEMO
¹ If you were unable to connect using the steps above, tap “ME-90B
Audio”, displayed in the Bluetooth device screen of the mobile
device.
¹ To disconnect, press the pairing button on the BT-DUAL to make
the Bluetooth indicator go dark, or turn o the mobile device’s
Bluetooth function.
Disabling Bluetooth functionality
If you want to disconnect the Bluetooth connection between the
BT-DUAL and your mobile device, disable Bluetooth functionality.
When this unit is not connected to the mobile device via Bluetooth,
we recommend you turn o Bluetooth to save on battery power.
Controlling the ME-90B from the dedicated app on your mobile device
Use the dedicated BOSS TONE STUDIO for ME-90B app to edit eects
and save this unit’s settings.
For details on BOSS TONE STUDIO for ME-90B, refer to the BOSS
website.
https://www.boss.info/
Connecting to the dedicated app
Here are the settings to make in order to use the dedicated app on
your mobile device.
* Make the connection from the dedicated app’s settings screen,
not from your mobile device’s Bluetooth settings.
MEMO
The explanation below uses the iPhone as an example. For details,
refer to the owner’s manual of your mobile device.
1. Turn on the power of the ME-90B.
2. Place the mobile device that you want to connect
nearby the ME-90B.
3. Turn on the Bluetooth function of the mobile
device.
1. Press the pairing button on the BT-DUAL.
The Bluetooth indicator goes dark.
* When Bluetooth audio is connected, the Bluetooth indicator
on the BT-DUAL lights up. Note that the unit has not nished
connecting with the dedicated app at this time.
4. In the dedicated app’s settings, connect to “ME-90B
MIDI”.
* Do not tap “ME-90B Audio”, “ME-90B MIDI” or similar indications
shown in the Bluetooth settings of your mobile device.
Operating the ME-90B wirelessly with an EV1-WL/FS-1-WL
You can connect a wireless expression pedal (EV-1-WL) or a wireless
footswitch (FS-1-WL) to this unit, both of which are sold separately.
Refer to the “EV-1-WL Connection Guide (Connecting to the ME-90B)”
and the “FS-1-WL Connection Guide (Connecting to the ME-90B)”,
both on the BOSS website.
https://www.boss.info/support/
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Conguring the device overall (system settings)
1. Press the [MEMORY/MANUAL] pedal to switch to
manual mode (p. 6).
2. Press the [EDIT] button to select the parameter to
set.
The parameter to set changes each time
you press the [EDIT] or [CTL] button.
[EDIT] button Selects the next parameter.
[CTL] button Selects the previous parameter.
Parameter list
Parameter Display Explanation
OUTPUT SELECT
Knob motion
USB LEVEL
USB DIRECT MONITOR
* Power-on setting
is d1
USB LOOPBACK
MIDI channels
Output settings when
using the tuner
Bank switch operation
1–2
n0
n1
L0–L9
d0
d1
b0
b1
C1–C9,
Ź0–Ź.6
t0
t1
h0
h1
Species the amp that’s connected
to the OUTPUT jacks (p. 4).
The parameter value changes
instantly when you operate the
knobs (this is the factory setting).
The value only changes once
the knob position reaches the
parameter’s current value.
Adjusts the level of audio input from
your computer, which is mixed with
the sound that passes through the
ME-90B’s eects.
The sound of the ME-90B is not
output from the OUTPUT jacks, the
PHONES jack or the BALANCED
OUTPUT connector.
The sound of the ME-90B is output
from the OUTPUT jacks, the PHONES
jack and the BALANCED OUTPUT
connector.
The input audio from the computer
is not output via USB OUT.
The input audio from the computer
is output via USB OUT.
ch 1–ch 9, ch 10–ch 16
No audio is output when you’re
using the tuner.
The direct sound is output while
you’re using the tuner.
Pressing the bank pedal to switch
banks only changes the bank shown
in the display, without actually
switching to a dierent memory.
Both the bank and number are
conrmed right when you press
a numbered pedal, and the unit
switches to the next memory
(factory settings).
The memory switches instantly
when a bank pedal or numbered
pedal is pressed.
3. Use the [BANK É] [BANK Ç] pedals to select a
value.
4. Press the [WRITE] button.
The settings are saved.
Parameter Display Explanation
When you switch from memory
mode to manual mode, the current
knob settings are applied to the
sound.
When you switch from memory
mode to manual mode, the memory
settings are carried over (factory
settings).
The manual mode settings are
retained when you switch from
manual to memory mode.
SEND/RETURN are inserted before
the PREAMP/EQ in the signal chain.
This is the optimal setting when
using a distortion pedal or the like
(factory settings).
SEND/RETURN are inserted after the
PREAMP/EQ in the signal chain.
This is the optimal setting when
using a delay pedal or the like.
When you switch memories, the
eect’s delay/reverb sound you
selected in DLY/REV is not carried
over.
This does not apply to the DELAY for
MOD settings.
When you switch memories, the
eect’s delay/reverb sound you
selected in DLY/REV is carried over
(factory settings).
This does not apply to the DELAY for
MOD settings.
The LEDs can light up in one of ten
colors (factory settings).
The LEDs only light up to indicate
their state in white and in color
changes that are easy to distinguish
(only red, yellow and blue).
This mode is recommended for
users with diculties distinguishing
colors or who prefer a classic-looking
display.
In manual mode, this turns BLEND
on/o (factory settings).
In manual mode, this turns SEND/
RETURN on/o.
Switching to manual
mode
SEND/RETURN
insertion point setting
Preserving/muting
the eect sound when
switching between
memories or turning
eects o
LED illumination color
BLEND footswitch
functions
N0
N1
S0
S1
o0
o1
E0
E1
r0
r1
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Restoring the factory settings (factory reset)
You can restore the settings of the ME-90B aside from the expression pedal calibration settings (p. 11) to their factory settings. This includes the
user memories, reference pitch for the tuner, how the knobs respond and so on.
1. Press the [MEMORY/MANUAL] pedal to switch to manual mode (p. 6).
2. Hold down the [CTL] button and press the [DRV/SYN] pedal.
Press and hold
The display indicates “FA”.
3. Press the [WRITE] button.
The tuning guide blinks.
4. Press the [WRITE] button again.
The display blinks, and the factory reset is executed.
* Never turn o the power while the factory reset is in progress.
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Troubleshooting
Problem Items to check Cause/Action
Problems with sound
Is there a short in one of the connection cables? Try replacing the connection cable.
No sound/insucient volume
Sound from the device connected to the INPUT
jack isn’t coming through headphones
Oscillating sound or feedback
Other problems
Cannot switch between memories
Can’t control the parameters as desired
Can’t save a phrase you created using phrase
loop
Can’t connect to an Android device via Bluetooth
Is this unit properly connected to other devices?
Is the power to the connected amp or mixer not
turned on, or is the volume turned down?
Might the [OUTPUT LEVEL] knob has been
lowered?
Has the tuner been turned on? Eects are not applied while tuning.
Is the output setting set to t0 when you are using
the tuner?
Has each eect been congured correctly? Check the settings for each eect.
Is the “USB LEVEL” (p. 16) set too low? Adjust the value as appropriate.
The batteries might be depleted. Replace the batteries with new ones.
“USB DIRECT MONITOR” (p. 16) might have been
set to “d0”.
The gain value or volume-related parameters in
the eect settings might be set too high.
The bank switch operation setting (p. 16) might
be set to “h0”.
Is the eect turned o?
Do the MIDI controller numbers match?
The expression pedal might be miscalibrated.
You can’t save phrases you created using the phrase loop feature on the ME-90B.
Location data on the Android device might have
been turned o.
Check the connections to other devices (p. 3).
Check the settings for connected devices.
Adjust the knobs to their appropriate positions
(p. 4).
Set this to “t1” (p. 16).
Set this to “d1”.
Try lowering these values.
If the bank switch operation setting (p. 16) is
“h0”, the memory does not actually change until
you press a numbered [1]–[4] pedal.
If you are using the expression pedal or
footswitches to operate the eects, check whether
the eects that include the parameter you want to
control are switched on.
Check whether the controller number you’re using
matches the number of the parameter to control
(p. 13).
Although the ME-90B’s expression pedal has
been set for optimum operation at the factory,
extended use and the operating environment
can result in the pedal going out of adjustment.
Calibrate the expression pedal (p. 11).
You may not be able to connect via Bluetooth
if location data is turned o. Turn the Android
device’s location data setting on, and then try
connecting again via Bluetooth.
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Main specications
Sampling Frequency 48 kHz
24 bits + AF method
AD Conversion
DA Conversion 32 bits
Processing 32-bit oating point
Eects 93 Types
Memories 36 (User) + 36 (Preset)
Phrase Loop 38 sec. (MONO)
Internal Tuning Detection
Accuracy
Nominal Input Level
Maximum Input Level
Input Impedance
Nominal Output Level
Output Impedance
Recommended Load Impedance
Display
Connectors
Power Supply
Current Draw 195 mA
Expected battery life under
continuous use
Dimensions
Weight (including battery)
Accessories
Options (sold separately)
* AF method (Adaptive Focus method) This is a proprietary method from Roland & BOSS that vastly improves the
signal-to-noise (SN) ratio of the AD converters.
±0.1 cent
INPUT: -10 dBu
RETURN: -10 dBu
INPUT: +7 dBu
RETURN: +7 dBu
INPUT: 1 MΩ
RETURN: 1 MΩ
OUTPUT L/MONO, R: -10 dBu
PHONES: -10 dBu
SEND: -10 dBu
BALANCED OUTPUT: -10 dBu
OUTPUT L/MONO, R: 1 kΩ
PHONES: 44 Ω
SEND: 1 kΩ
BALANCED OUTPUT: 600 Ω
OUTPUT L/MONO, R: 10 kΩ or greater
PHONES: 44 Ω or greater
SEND: 10 kΩ or greater
BALANCED OUTPUT: 600 Ω or greater
7 segments, 2 characters (LED)
Tuning guides (LED)
INPUT jack, OUTPUT (L/MONO, R) jacks, SEND jack, RETURN jack: 1/4-inch phone type
BALANCED OUTPUT jack: XLR type
PHONES jack: Stereo miniature phone type
USB COMPUTER port: USB Type-C®
Bluetooth ADAPTOR connector: Dedicated connector
DC IN jack
Alkaline battery (AA, LR6) x 4
AC adaptor
Alkaline battery: Approximately 6 hours
* This can vary depending on the specications of the batteries, capacity of the batteries, and the conditions of use.
443 (W) x 220 (L) x 67 (H) mm
17-1/2 (W) x 8-11/16 (D) x 2-11/16 (H) inches
Maximum height
443 (W) x 220 (D) x 93 (H) mm
17-1/2 (W) x 8-11/16 (D) x 3-11/16 (H) inches
2.9 kg
6 lbs 7 oz
Startup Guide
Alkaline battery (AA, LR6) x 4
Leaet “USING THE UNIT SAFELY”
AC adaptor: PSA-S series
Bluetooth® Audio MIDI Dual Adaptor: BT-DUAL
Carry Bag: CB-ME80, CB-BU10
* 0 dBu = 0.775 Vrms
* This document explains the specications of the product at the time that the document was issued. For the latest information, refer to the Roland
website.
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