Thank you, and congratulations on your choice of the BOSS ME-50 Guitar Multiple Effects.
Before using this unit, carefully read the sections entitled: “USING THE UNIT SAFELY” (page 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, owner’s manual should
be read in its entirety. The manual should be saved and kept on hand as a convenient reference.
Main features
Simple Operation—Works Like a
Compact Effects Processor
Each effect is controlled with a dedicated knob.
Intuitive operation, similar to that of compact effects
processors, lets you make changes to tones directly.
Powerful COSM Drive Sound
Roland’s original “COSM” modeling technology lets
you perform with a wide variety of powerful distortion
effects, from classic vintage sounds, to original
distortion sounds.
COSM (Composite Object Sound Modeling)
Composite Object Sound Modeling (COSM) is Roland’s
innovative and powerful sound modeling technology.
COSM analyzes the many factors that make up the
original sound, such as the electrical and physical
characteristics of the original, and then produces a
digital model that can reproduce the same sound.
Multi-Function Expression Pedal
The ME-50 is equipped with an expression pedal that
gives you control over six different specialized pedal
effects. It can also be switched for use as a volume
pedal.
Memory Function
You can store up to 30 original tones you have created.
You can also use the pedals in “Memory mode” to call
up stored tones instantly.
AUX IN Jack
The AUX IN jack makes it easy to practice along with
CDs, MDs, and other input.
Battery-Powered Operation
The ME-50 can be powered in two ways, with (6) AA
batteries or by using the AC adaptor (optional).
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
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.
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!
• 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.
• 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:
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Any accumulation of dust between the AC
adaptor and the power outlet can result in poor
insulation and lead to fire. Periodically wipe away
such dust with a dry cloth. Also, disconnect the
power plug from the power outlet whenever the
unit is to remain unused for an extended period of
time.
• If used improperly, batteries may explode or leak
and cause damage or injury. In the interest of
safety, please read and observe the following
precautions (p. 6).
1
• Carefully follow the installation instructions for
batteries, and make sure you observe the correct
polarity.
2
• Avoid using new batteries together with used
ones. In addition, avoid mixing different types
of batteries.
3
• Remove the batteries whenever the unit is to
remain unused for an extended period of time.
5
• If a battery has leaked, use a soft piece of cloth
or paper towel to wipe all remnants of the
discharge from the battery compartment. Then
install new batteries. To avoid inflammation of
the skin, make sure that none of the battery
discharge gets onto your hands or skin. Exercise
the utmost caution so that none of the discharge
gets near your eyes. Immediately rinse the
affected area with running water if any of the
discharge has entered the eyes.
6
• Never keep batteries together with metallic
objects such as ballpoint pens, necklaces,
hairpins, etc.
• 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.
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
301
• Do not use this unit on the same power circuit with any
device that will generate line noise (such as an electric
motor or variable lighting system).
302
• The AC adaptor will begin to generate heat after long
hours of consecutive use. This is normal, and is not a
cause for concern.
303a
• 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.
304a
• When installing or replacing batteries, always turn off the
power on this unit and disconnect any other devices you
may have connected. 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.
354a
• Do not expose the unit to direct sunlight, place it near
devices that radiate heat, leave it inside an enclosed
vehicle, or otherwise subject it to temperature extremes.
Excessive heat can deform or discolor the unit.
355b
• 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
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.
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 save a backup copy of important data
you have writed on the 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. Roland Corporation assumes no liability
concerning such loss of data.
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
• 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.
* 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.
fig.0010
Making the Connections
The ME-50 is not equipped with any internal amplifier or
speakers. To listen to sound with the ME-50, connect it to a
guitar amp, stereo headphones, or other such sound
equipment.
* 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.
fig.0020
Electric Guitar
Stereo
Headphones
AC Adaptor
(PSA series: optional)
CD/MD
Player, etc.
• 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 12
hours with alkaline batteries and about 3.5 hours with
carbon batteries.
(This may vary according to usage conditions.)
Guitar Amp
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.
fig.0040
When outputting monaurally, connect a cable only to the
OUTPUT L (MONO) jack.
Do not use a cable containing a resistor to connect CD or
MD players to the AUX IN jack.
6
When you use the LINE/PHONES jack, the built-in
guitar-amp simulator lets you enjoy impressive guitar
sound, even with headphones.
●
Playing Sounds
1.
2.
3.
Use a special cable (the optional PCS-31) to send output
from the LINE/PHONES jack to equipment such as a
mixer. Using an ordinary cable will cause only the leftchannel sound to be output.
fig.0030
PCS-31
White
(L)
Red
(R)
Turning on the Power
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.
(CD/MD Player)
ME-50
fig.0041
* Raising the MASTER LEVEL knob too much may result in
sound distortion.
* When the effects are all off, input and output are at the same
levels as when the MASTER LEVEL knob is at the center
position.
* The setting of the MASTER LEVEL knob is stored in memory
for each Patch (p. 20).
If There Is No Sound/If the Volume is Low
● Are connections to other devices correctly made?
Check the connections once more.
● Is the volume turned down?
Check the volume levels on any connected amp or mixer.
● Can you hear sound through the headphones when
headphones are connected?
If you can hear sounds, it may be that there is a short in
the cable used to connect the amp or other device, or
perhaps a mistake in an external device’s settings. Check
the connecting cables and external devices once more.
● Has the level been lowered with the expression pedal?
Sounds are not output when the toe of the expression
pedal is in the raised position while the pedal is set to
function as a volume pedal. (p. 19)
● Is the ME-50 in Tuner mode (p. 24)?
Output is muted in Tuner mode.
Guitar Amp / Stereo, Etc.
* Turn up the volume on amps and other equipment only after
all connections are completed and the power for connected
devices is turned on.
* This unit is equipped with a protection circuit. A brief interval
(several seconds) after power up is required before the unit will
operate normally.
Adjusting the Volume
Adjust the ME-50’s volume with the MASTER LEVEL knob.
fig.0050
● Is a cable containing a resistor being used to connect a
CD or MD player to the AUX IN jack?
Using a cable containing a resistor may prevent sound
from CD and MD players from being audible.
Turning Off the Power
1. Turn down the volume of the ME-50 and any connected
device.
2. Turn off the power to Guitar Amp / Stereo, Multitrack
Recorder, etc.
3. Tuen the ME-50’s power off.
7
Using the Effects
When the power is turned on, the ME-50 always switches to Manual mode, and the OVERDRIVE/DISTORTION,
MODULATION, and DELAY are switched off.
* When the DELAY TYPE is set to HOLD, the DELAY indicator goes on, the DELAY pedal’s indicator flashes at a fixed interval,
indicating recording standby is enabled. (p. 17)
All product names mentioned in this document are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.
Those companies are not affiliated with BOSS and have not licenced or authorized BOSS’s ME-50. Their marks are used
solely to identify the equipment whose sound is simulated by BOSS’s ME-50.
About the Effect Connection Sequence
The ME-50 automatically selects the optimum sequence for connecting the effects according to the effect (p. 19) you select with the
expression pedal.
● When WAH, RING MOD, +1OCTAVE, or -1OCTAVE is Selected
fig.0060
TONE MODIFY
NSREVERB
EXPRESSION
VOLUME
(
PEDAL
)
COMPRESSOR
MODULATION
OVERDRIVE /
DISTORTION
DELA Y
● When RESONANCE and VOICE is Selected
fig.0070
TONE MODIFY
NSREVERB
COMPRESSOR
VOLUME
(
)
PEDAL
OVERDRIVE /
DISTORTION
MODULATION
EXPRESSION
DELA Y
Also, when the MODULATION type is TREMOLO or UNI-V, MODULATION is connected before OVERDRIVE/DISTORTION.
(Example) EXPRESSION: WAH; MODULATION: TREMOLO
fig.0080
WAH
(
EXPRESSION
COMPRESSORTONE MODIFY
)
TREMOLO
(
MODULATION
)
8
OVERDRIVE /
DISTORTION
NSREVERB
VOLUME
(
PEDAL
)
DELA Y
TONE MODIFY
Using the Effects
fig.0090
TONE MODIFY Indicator
This changes the characteristics of the connected guitar.
TYPE knob
OFF
The sound is bypassed.
* When switched OFF, the TONE MODIFY indicator goes out.
FAT
Fat tone with boosted mid range.
PRESENCE
Bright tone with boosted high-mid range.
ACOUSTIC
Changes the electric guitar’s tone to that of an acoustic
guitar.
Switching Tone Modify On and
Off with the Foot Switch
With a foot switch (the optional FS-5U) connected to the
FOOT SW jack on the rear panel, you can use the foot switch
to switch Tone Modify on and off.
fig.0100
Set the polarity switch
as shown below.
MILD
Mild tone with the high end cut back.
TIGHT
Tone with the low frequencies cut.
ENHANCE
Tone with the high frequencies boosted.
SH
Changes from a single-coil pickup tone to a humbucking
pickup tone.
HS
Changes from a humbucking pickup tone to a mixed tone of
two single-coil pickups.
HHF
Changes from a humbucking pickup tone to a single-coil
pickup half tone.
* When in Memory mode, the bank-switching function is
enabled (p. 22).
By connecting with a special cable (the optional PCS-31),
you can connect two foot switches, one for Tone Modify
ON/OFF, and one to switch the Compressor on and off
(p. 10).
HOLLOW
Adds body resonance to create a tone like that of an fullacoustic guitar.
9
Using the Effects
COMPRESSOR
fig.0110
COMPRESSOR Indicator
This is an effect that produces a long sustain by evening out
the volume level of the input signal. You can also use it as a
“limiter” to suppress only the sound peaks and prevent
distortion.
SUSTAIN knob
This adjusts the depth of the effect. Turning it to the right
(clockwise) produces a longer sustain. When using this as a
limiter, turn the SUSTAIN knob to the left
(counterclockwise).
* When not using the Compressor, turn the SUSTAIN knob to
OFF. When switched OFF, the COMPRESSOR indicator
goes out.
Switching the Compressor On
and Off with the Foot Switch
With the special cable (the optional PCS-31) used to connect
two foot switches (the optional FS-5U) to the FOOT SW jack
on the rear panel, you can use one foot switch for Tone
Modify ON/OFF, and one to switch the Compressor on and
off (p. **). Connect as shown below.
fig.0120
PCS-31
Set the polarity switch
as shown below.
WhiteRed
TONE MODIFY
On/Off
COMPRESSOR
On/Off
LEVEL knob
Adjusts the volume level when the Compressor is on. Use
this in achieving a volume balance when switching the
Compressor on and off.
* When in Memory mode, the bank-switching function is
enabled (p. 22).
10
OVERDRIVE/DISTORTION
Using the Effects
fig.0130
OVERDRIVE/DISTORTION Indicator
Pedal Indicator
OD/DS Pedal
These are effects that distort the sound.
You can use the TYPE knob in combination with
[VARIATION] to get 22 different types of distortion.
OD/DS pedal
Each time you press the pedal, the effect switches through
Overdrive/Distortion ON and OFF. When switched on, the
OVERDRIVE/DISTORTION indicator and pedal indicator
light up.
DRIVE knob
Adjusts the amount of distortion. Turning the knob to the
right (clockwise) creates a stronger distortion and increases
the volume. Turning this all the way to the TURBO range
increases the effect even more.
BOTTOM knob
Adjusts the low frequency range. Turning the knob to the left
(counterclockwise) cuts the low end more; the low
frequencies are boosted as the knob is turned to the right.
TONE knob
Adjusts the tone. Turning the knob to the left creates a milder
sound; a sharper sound is produced as the knob is turned to
the right.
LEVEL knob
Adjusts the volume.
Type List
OD-1
OD-2
BD-2
DS-1
MT-2
SCREAM
DST+
GUV
RAT
MUFF
FACE
Models the BOSS OD-1.
Models the BOSS OD-2.
Models the BOSS BD-2.
Models the BOSS DS-1.
Models the BOSS MT-2.
Models the Ibanez TS-808 TUBESCREAMER.
Models the MXR DISTORTION+.
Models the Marshall GUV’NOR.
Models the Proco RAT.
Models the Electro-Harmonix Big Muff π.
Models the FUZZFACE.
* Noise may be mixed in if you turn the LEVEL knob up too
high. Adjust the LEVEL knob so that the apparent volume
level remains the same whether the effects are on or off.
[VARIATION] Off[VARIATION] Lit
NATURAL
CRUNCH
LEAD
LOUD
METAL
MODERN OD
STACK
Hi GAIN
MODERN DS
SQUARE
OCT FUZZ
Overdrive that gives a more natural sounding distortion.
A lustrous crunch sound with an added element of
amp distortion.
Produces a distortion sound with both the smoothness of an overdrive along with a deep distortion.
A heavy distortion with a boosted low end.
An intense, radical distortion sound.
Overdrive with special mid range tone.
A fat sound with an added element of a stack
amp’s distortion.
Sound of Overdrive through a stack amp.
Sound of a large high gain amp.
Synth square wave sound.
Fuzz sound produced by octave harmonics.
11
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