Boss Audio Systems ME-20 User Manual
Thank you, and congratulations on your choice of BOSS ME-20 Guitar Multiple Effects.
Before using this unit, carefully read the sections entitled: “USING THE UNIT SAFELY” and
“IMPORTANT NOTES” .
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
●
Simple Operation—Works Like a Compact Pedal Effects
All you need to do to get the sound you want is to select an effect, then tweak it using the
knobs
–basically, this is the same simple, intuitive operation offered by compact pedal effects.
●
OD/DS Solo Function
Give distortion sounds an intense boost and clarity simply and easily with the press of a single
button. You can also switch the effect with the pedal, a convenient feature for live performances.
●
EZ EDIT for Quick Sound Creation
EZ EDIT is a feature that allows you to creating sounds quickly and easily.
You can adjust a combination of effect parameters with just a single knob.
●
Memory Function
Up to thirty of the sounds you create can be stored in the ME-20’s User memory.
In “Memory mode,” you can use the pedals to instantly select a stored sound.
●
AUX IN Jack
Thanks to this feature, it’s simple to play along with CD and MP3 players and other equipment.
●
Battery Powered Operation
The ME-20 runs on battery power (six AA dry cells), allowing you to use it anywhere you play.
You can also use the optional AC adaptor, giving you two ways to power the ME-20, so you can
play for extended periods during live performances.
Copyright © 2007 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.
The symbol alerts the user to important instructions
or warnings.The specific meaning of the symbol is
determined by the design contained within the
triangle. In the case of the symbol at left, it is used for
general cautions, warnings, or alerts to danger.
The symbol alerts the user to items that must never
be carried out (are forbidden). The specific thing that
must not be done is indicated by the design contained
within the circle. In the case of the symbol at left, it
means that the unit must never be disassembled.
The ● symbol alerts the user to things that must be
carried out. The specific thing that must be done is
indicated by the design contained within the circle. In
the case of the symbol at left, it means that the powercord plug must be unplugged from the outlet.
001
• Before using this unit, make sure to read
the instructions below, and the Owner’s
Manual.
.........................................................................................................
002c
• Do not open (or modify in any way) the
unit or its AC adaptor.
.........................................................................................................
003
•
Do not attempt to repair the unit, or
replace parts within it (except when this
manual provides specific instructions
directing you to do so). Refer all servicing to your
retailer, the nearest Roland Service Center, or an
authorized Roland distributor, as listed on the
“Information” page.
.........................................................................................................
004
•
Never use or store the unit in places that are:
• Subject to temperature extremes (e.g.,
direct sunlight in an enclosed vehicle,
near a heating duct, on top of heatgenerating 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.
.........................................................................................................
014
• Protect the unit from strong impact.
(Do not drop it!)
.........................................................................................................
013
•
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.
.........................................................................................................
007
• Make sure you always have the unit
placed so it is level and sure to remain
stable. Never place it on stands that
could wobble, or on inclined surfaces.
........................................................................................................
008b
•
Use only the specified AC adaptor (PSA
series), and make sure the line voltage at
the installation matches the input voltage
specified on the AC adaptor’s body. Other AC
adaptors may use a different polarity, or be
designed for a different voltage, so their use could
result in damage, malfunction, or electric shock.
........................................................................................................
009
•
Do not excessively twist or bend the
power cord, nor place heavy objects on it.
Doing so can damage the cord, producing
severed elements and short circuits. Damaged
cords are fire and shock hazards!
........................................................................................................
010
• 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.
........................................................................................................
015
•
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.
........................................................................................................
2
011
• Do not allow any objects (e.g., flammable
material, coins, pins); or liquids of any
kind (water, soft drinks, etc.) to penetrate
the unit.
.........................................................................................................
012c
• Immediately turn the power off, remove
the AC adaptor from the outlet, and
request servicing by your retailer, the
nearest Roland Service Center, or an authorized
Roland distributor, as listed on the “Information”
page when:
• The AC adaptor or the power-supply cord has
been damaged; or
• If smoke or unusual odor occurs
• Objects have fallen into, or liquid has been spilled
onto the unit; or
• The unit has been exposed to rain (or otherwise
has become wet); or
• The unit does not appear to operate normally or
exhibits a marked change in performance.
.........................................................................................................
016
•
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” page.
.........................................................................................................
019
• Batteries must never be recharged,
heated, taken apart, or thrown into fire or
water.
.........................................................................................................
101b
•
The unit and the AC adaptor should be
located so their location or position does
not interfere with their proper ventilation.
.........................................................................................................
102d
•
Always grasp only the output plug or the
body of the AC adaptor when plugging into,
or unplugging from, this unit or an outlet.
.........................................................................................................
103b
• 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.
.........................................................................................................
104
• Try to prevent cords and cables from
becoming entangled. Also, all cords and
cables should be placed so they are out of
the reach of children.
........................................................................................................
106
• Never climb on top of, nor place heavy
objects on the unit.
........................................................................................................
107d
• Never handle the AC adaptor body, or its
output plugs, with wet hands when
plugging into, or unplugging from, an
outlet or this unit.
........................................................................................................
108b
• Before moving the unit, disconnect the
AC adaptor and all cords coming from
external devices.
........................................................................................................
109b
• Before cleaning the unit, turn off the
power and unplug the AC adaptor from
the outlet (p. 12).
........................................................................................................
110b
• Whenever you suspect the possibility of
lightning in your area, disconnect the AC
adaptor from the outlet.
........................................................................................................
111: Selection
• 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. 11).
• Carefully follow the installation instruc-
tions 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.
........................................................................................................
112
• Used batteries must be disposed of in
compliance with whatever regulations
for their safe disposal that may be
observed in the region in which you live.
........................................................................................................
3
IMPORTANT NOTES
In addition to the items listed under "USING THE UNIT SAFELY" on page 2–3, please read and
observe the following:
355b
Power Supply:
Use of Batteries
301
• Do not connect this unit to same electrical outlet
that is being used by an electrical appliance that is
controlled by an inverter (such as a refrigerator,
washing machine, microwave oven, or air conditioner), or that contains a motor. Depending on
the way in which the electrical appliance is used,
power supply noise may cause this unit to
malfunction or may produce audible noise. If it is
not practical to use a separate electrical outlet,
connect a power supply noise filter between this
unit and the electrical outlet.
302
• The AC adaptor will begin to generate heat after
long hours of consecutive use. This is normal, and
is not a cause for concern.
303a
• The use of an AC adaptor is recommended as the
unit’s power consumption is relatively high.
For battery operation, we recommend the use of
alkaline batteries.
304b
• 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.
306b
• Batteries are supplied with the unit. The life of
these batteries may be limited, however, since
their primary purpose was to enable testing.
307
• 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
351
• Using the unit near power amplifiers (or other
equipment containing large power transformers)
may induce hum. To alleviate the problem,
change the orientation of this unit; or move it
farther away from the source of interference.
352a
• This device may interfere with radio and
television reception. Do not use this device in the
vicinity of such receivers.
352b
• Noise may be produced if wireless communications devices, such as cell phones, are operated in
the vicinity of this unit. Such noise could occur
when receiving or initiating a call, or while
conversing. Should you experience such
problems, you should relocate such wireless
devices so they are at a greater distance from this
unit, or switch them off.
• 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.
360
• Depending on the material and temperature of the
surface on which you place the unit, its rubber feet
may discolor or mar the surface.
You can place a piece of felt or cloth under the
rubber feet to prevent this from happening. If you
do so, please make sure that the unit will not slip
or move accidentally.
Maintenance
401a
• For everyday cleaning wipe the unit with a soft,
dry cloth or one that has been slightly dampened
with water. To remove stubborn dirt, use a cloth
impregnated with a mild, non-abrasive detergent.
Afterwards, be sure to wipe the unit thoroughly
with a soft, dry cloth.
402
• Never use benzine, thinners, alcohol or solvents of
any kind, to avoid the possibility of discoloration
and/or deformation.
Repairs and Data
452
• 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 (when possible). 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
BOSS/Roland assumes no liability concerning
such loss of data.
Additional Precautions
551
• 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 written
down a important data onto paper.
552
• Unfortunately, it may be impossible to restore the
contents of data that was stored in the unit’s
memory once it has been lost. BOSS/Roland
Corporation assumes no liability concerning such
loss of data.
4
553
• Use a reasonable amount of care when using the
unit’s buttons, sliders, or other controls; and when
using its jacks and connectors. Rough handling
can lead to malfunctions.
556
• When connecting / disconnecting all cables, grasp
the connector itself—never pull on the cable. This
way you will avoid causing shorts, or damage to
the cable’s internal elements.
558a
• To avoid disturbing your neighbors, try to keep
the unit’s volume at reasonable levels. You may
prefer to use headphones, so you do not need to
be concerned about those around you (especially
when it is late at night).
559a
• When you need to transport the unit, package it in
the box (including padding) that it came in, if
possible. Otherwise, you will need to use equivalent packaging materials.
562
• 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.
IMPORTANT NOTES
Printing Conventions and
icons in This Manual
Text or numerals
enclosed in square
brackets [ ]
(p.**)
Indicate buttons.
[WRITE]
WRITE button
Indicates information that
you should be aware of
when using the ME-20.
Indicates supplementary
information about an
operation.
Indicates information about
a convenient operation.
Indicates a reference page.
5
Contents
Main Features ....................1
IMPORTANT NOTES ............4
Names of Things and What
They Do .............................7
Front Panel.....................................7
Rear Panel ...................................10
Installing Batteries ...........11
Connections .....................12
Turning On the Power ..................13
Turning Off the Power ..................13
Tuning the Guitar (Bypass/
Tuner) ..............................14
Introduction to Effects and
Parameters ......................16
About the Effect Connection
Sequence .....................................16
OD/DS SOLO...............................16
OD/DS (Overdrive/Distortion).......17
MOD (Modulation)........................18
DELAY .........................................19
EQ (Equalizer)..............................20
WAH.............................................21
NS (Noise Suppressor) ................21
THRESHOLD ...................................21
MASTER LEVEL ..........................21
Saving and Calling Up Tones
(Memory Mode) .............. 23
Manual Mode and Memory Mode
Switching Between Manual and
Memory Mode.............................. 23
Patches and Banks...................... 23
Saving Tones (Write)................... 24
Calling Up and Using Saved Sounds
(Patch Change) ........................... 25
Switching Numbers......................... 25
Switching Banks............................... 25
Changing Patch Settings
(Patch Edit Mode)........................ 26
..... 23
Other Functions............... 27
Using Footswitch Pedals ............. 27
Connecting a Footswitch Pedal .....27
Returning the ME-20 to Its Factory
Settings (Factory Reset).............. 29
Adjusting the Expression Pedal... 30
Patch List ........................ 31
Factory Settings .............. 32
Blank Chart..................... 34
Troubleshooting .............. 36
Specifications .................. 37
Index.............................. 38
Creating Sounds Easily
(EZ EDIT)...........................22
6
Names of Things and What They Do
Front Panel
fig.ME-20-front-panel.eps_70
1
15 16
3
7 810111213
2
569
4
1. Parameter Knobs
These adjust parameters selected with the effect buttons and EZ EDIT button.
You can check a parameter’s current value by holding down its effect select button
and turning the knob (this displays the value without adjusting it).
14
You can change how the knobs respond when turned.
1. Switch to Manual mode (p. 23).
2. Hold down the [EDIT/EXIT] button and press Number Pedal 1.
One of the following appears in the display.
n0: The value changes immediately as the knob is turned (factory setting).
n1: The value changes once the knob is turned past the position
corresponding to the currently set value.
3. Press [ ][ ] to change the value of the setting as desired.
4. Press [WRITE]. The setting is saved, and the ME-20 returns to Manual mode.
7
Names of Things and What They Do
1
3
7 810111213
2
569
4
15 16
2. Effect Select Indicators
Show effects you can set using the parameter knobs.
3. Effect Select Buttons
Press these buttons to select the effect whose settings you want to change.
4. EZ EDIT Indicator
Shows whether EZ EDIT is on or off.
5. EZ EDIT Button
Press this to use EZ EDIT (p. 22).
6. Display
Shows the values of parameter settings , bank numbers, and other information.
* When the batteries run down,
with new batteries.
“bt”
is indicated in the display. When this occurs, replace
7. EDIT/EXIT Button
Press this to edit patches in Memory mode (or exit editing).
8. WRITE Button
Press this to save the current sound in User memory.
14
8
Names of Things and What They Do
9. / Buttons
Use these to adjust parameters in the various operating modes.
Manual mode:
Memory mode:
TUNER:
NS THRESHOLD
Bank (NS THRESHOLD when editing patches)
Reference pitch
10. WAH Indicator
Shows whether the wah effect is on or off.
11. OD/DS SOLO Indicator
Shows whether the solo sound is on or off.
12. OD/DS SOLO Button
Press this to switch to a sound suited for solos.
Pressing this button automatically switches on overdrive/distortion.
13. MASTER LEVEL Knob
Adjusts the volume of the output.
14. Expression Pedal
Controls the volume level (volume pedal).
Firmly depressing the front end of the pedal switches WAH ON/OFF.
When the wah effect is on, the pedal functions as a wah pedal.
When WAH is on:
When WAH is off:
Functions as a wah pedal.
Functions as a volume pedal.
When operating the expression pedal, be careful not to get your fingers pinched
between the movable part and the panel. In places with small children, an adult
should provide supervision and guidance until the child is capable of following all
the rules essential for the safe operation of the unit.
15. Pedal Indicators
Show whether the corresponding effect is on or off.
In Memory mode, they indicate the current patch number.
16. Effect/Number Pedals
Switch the corresponding effects on and off.
When the ME-20 is in Memory mode, these switch correspondingly numbered
patches.
Holding down the OD/DS pedal for two seconds when in Manual mode switches
you to the OD/DS SOLO on/off function. Holding it down for two seconds a
second time returns you to the OD/DS on/off function.
9
Names of Things and What They Do
Rear Panel
ME-20-rear-panel.eps_70
2 5
1. SECURITY LOCK ( )
http://www.kensington.com/
2. INPUT Jack
Connect your guitar here.
* The INPUT jack doubles as a power switch. Inserting a plug into the INPUT jack turns on
the power; the power is switched off when the plug is disconnected. Be sure to unplug the
cable from this jack when the ME-20 is not in use.
3. AUX IN Jack
Connect a CD or MP3 player here to practice with sounds from these devices.
* You cannot adjust the volume of the AUX input. Adjust the volume on the connected device.
* Do not use a cable that contains a resistor to connect external devices to the AUX IN jack.
Use of such cables may make sounds from connected devices inaudible.
* No effects are applied to the AUX input signal.
4. OUTPUT L/MONO, R Jacks
Connect an amp or mixer here.
5. PHONES (Headphones) Jack
Connect stereo headphones here.
When headphones are connected to the PHONES jack, tonal adjustments are
applied so the sound is close to that produced by the guitar amp.
6. FOOT SW (Footswitch) Jack
Connect an optional footswitch (such as the FS-6) here.
The footswitch functions differently in Manual mode and Memory mode.
When in Manual mode:
When in Memory mode:
7. DC IN (AC Adaptor) Jack
Connect the optional AC adaptor (PSA series) here.
* Use only the specified AC adaptor (PSA series).
Switches the OD/DS Solo on/off.
Switches the Bypass/Tuner on/off.
Bank up, Bank down
3 4 71
6
10
Installing Batteries
Insert the batteries as shown in figure, being careful to orient the batteries correctly.
fig.replace-battery.eps_38
• When the batteries run down,
new batteries.
• When turning the unit over, place some newspapers, magazines, or other suitable
material under the four corners or at both ends to prevent damage to the buttons and
controls. Also, try to position the unit so no buttons or controls can get damaged.
• When turning the unit over, handle it 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.
• Use six AA-type dry cells when replacing the batteries.
• Avoid using new and used batteries together or combinations of different types of
batteries. Doing so may result in fluid leakage.
• Batteries are supplied with the unit. Since the primary purpose of these batteries is to
confirm operation of the unit, their battery life may be limited.
Continuous usage time under battery power is about 13 hours with alkaline
batteries and about 3.5 hours with manganese batteries. (This may vary according
to usage conditions.)
“bt”
appears in the display. When this occurs, install
11
Connections
fig.ME-20-connect-e.eps_70
CD/MP3 player
Stereo Headphones
Phones Jack
Guitar AmpGuitar
AC adaptor
(PSA series)
Footswitch
(FS-6, etc.)
* When using an AC adaptor, be sure to use only the specified type (PSA series).
Using an adaptor other than the specified type may cause malfunction.
* To prevent malfunction and/or damage to speakers or other devices, always turn down the
volume and turn off the power to all devices before making any connections.
* The INPUT jack doubles as a power switch. Inserting a plug in the INPUT jack turns on
the power; the power is switched off when the plug is disconnected. Be sure to unplug the
cable from this jack when the ME-20 is not in use.
* Some connection cables contain resistors. When connection cables with resistors are used,
the sound level may be extremely low, or impossible to hear. For information on cable
specifications, contact the manufacturer of the cable.
* When you’re using a single guitar amp, connect it to the L/MONO jack.
For more information about connecting a footswitch pedal to the footswitch jack,
refer to “Using Footswitch Pedals” (p. 27).
12
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