Roland SYB 5 Service Manual

Owner’s Manual

DCAC

AC & BATTERY

POWERED

FET

Thank you, and congratulations on your choice of BOSS SYB-5 Bass Synthesizer.

Before using this unit, carefully read the sections entitled: “USING THE UNIT SAFELY” and
“IMPORTANT NOTES” (separate sheet). 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.

A battery is supplied with the unit. The life of this battery may be limited, however, since
its primary purpose was to enable testing.

Copyright © 2004 BOSS CORPORATION

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

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Main Features

This compact effect creates a variety of bass synthesizer sounds.

This unit features a dual-system bass synthesizer, which creates sounds in two different
ways, and 11 modes to produce a variety of sound characteristics.

Features a mode that the changes the filter, synchronizing it with the internal LFO. This is
useful for creating techno sounds.

One mode uses an all-pass filter, allowing you to create a whole new synth sound that has
a sense of depth and motion.

The Hold function allows you to output effect sounds (synthesizer sound) continuously
while you keep the pedal down. (This applies when the Mode is set to 1–9.)

In the stereo output mode, the effect sound (synthesizer sound) and direct sound can be
output separately.

The SYB-5 not only works with four-string basses, it is compatible with five- and six-string
basses as well (the range for detecting pitch is A0–C5).

Equipped with Expression/Control jack. You can connect an expression pedal (the optional
Roland EV-5) and use it to switch the bass synth sounds.

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Panel Descriptions

fig.01

1

2

3

4

1. AC Adaptor Jack

Accepts connection of an AC Adaptor (op­tionally available BOSS PSA-series). By using
an AC Adaptor, you can play without being
concerned about how much battery power
you have left.

* As soon as you connect the AC adaptor, the unit is

turned on.

* If there are batteries in the unit while an AC

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5

adaptor is being used, normal operation will
continue should the line voltage be interrupted
(power blackout or power cord disconnection).

* Use only the specified AC adaptor (PSA-series).

2. CHECK Indicator

This indicator shows whether an effect is

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ON/OFF, and also doubles as the Battery
Check indicator. The indicator lights when
an effect is ON.

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Panel Descriptions

* If this indicator goes dim or no longer lights while

an effect is ON, the battery is near exhaustion and
should be replaced immediately. For instructions on
changing the battery, refer to “Changing the
Battery” (p. 18).

*

The CHECK indicator shows whether the effect
is being applied or not. It does not indicate
whether the power to the device is on or not.

3. OUTPUT A (MONO) Jack, OUTPUT B Jack

The output jacks are used to connect the unit
to amplifiers or other devices.

* For mono output, use OUTPUT A (MONO).

* For stereo use:

Output A: Only the processed signal is output.

Output B: Only the dry signal is output.

4. INPUT Jack

This jack accept input signal coming from a
bass.

* When running the unit on battery power, the INPUT

jack as power switch. Power to the unit is turned on
when you plug into the INPUT jack; the power is
turned off when the cable is unplugged. Be sure to
disconnect a cord plugged into the INPUT jack when
not using this effects device. When the AC adaptor is
used, the power remains on at all times, and this
function is disabled.

5. EXP Jack

Connect an expression pedal (the optional
Roland EV-5) here. You can then use the ex­pression pedal to change the bass synth
sound.

* For more details, refer to “Using the EXP Jack” (p.

15).

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12 13

8 9

10 11

Panel Descriptions

6. Pedal Switch

This switch turns the effects on/off.
This is also used for the Hold function.

7. Thumbscrew

When this screw is loosened, the pedal will
open, allowing you to change the battery.

* For instructions on changing the battery, refer to

“Changing the Battery” (p. 18).

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fig.02

8. EFFECT (Effect Level) Knob

This adjusts the output level of the effect
sound (synth sound).
The volume of the effect sound increases as
you turn the knob clockwise.

* Rotating this knob fully counterclockwise will

eliminate the effect sound.

Panel Descriptions

9. DIRECT (Direct Level) Knob

This adjusts the output level of the direct
sound. The volume of the direct sound in­creases as you turn the knob clockwise.

* Rotating the knob fully counterclockwise will

eliminate the direct sound.

10 .FREQ (Frequency) Knob

This adjusts the frequency of the filter.
The sound becomes brighter as you turn the
knob clockwise.

11 .RES (Resonance) Knob

This adjusts the feedback amount of the fil­ter. Rotating the knob clockwise will make
the sound more unusual.

12 .DECAY/RATE Knob

When MODE is 1, 2, 4, 5, 7–11

The knob works as a decay knob that deter­mines the period of time over which the fre­quency of the filter should move. As you rotate
the knob clockwise, this time is increased.

When set to MAX, the frequency of the fil­ter is fixed.

When MODE is 3, 6

The knob functions as a rate knob, adjusting the
speed at which the filter fluctuates.

13 .MODE Knob

This knob switches the tone.
For more on the tones for each mode, refer to
the “Mode Chart” (p. 10).

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Connections

fig.03

AC Adaptor

BOSS PSA series
(Optional)

Bass Guitar

Expression Pedal

Roland EV-5 (Optional)

Bass Amp

OUT 9V DC / 200 mA

For mono use, make the
connection to the
OUTPUT A (MONO) jack.

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Connections

* To ensure stable conditions, connect the

SYB-5 directly to your bass’s output.

* When running the unit on battery power,

inserting a plug into the INPUT Jack will
automatically switch the unit on.

* 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.

* 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.

* If there are batteries in the unit while an AC

adaptor is being used, normal operation will
continue should the line voltage be inter­rupted (power blackout or power cord discon­nection).

* Once the connections have been completed,

turn on power to your various devices in the
order specified. By turning on devices in the
wrong order, you risk causing malfunction
and/or damage to speakers and other devices.

When powering up:

Turn on the power to your guitar amp last.

When powering down:

Turn off the power to your guitar amp first.

* Always make sure to have the volume level

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

* When operating on battery power only, the

CHECK indicator will become dim when
battery power gets too low. Replace the
battery as soon as possible.

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2:

3:

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4

5:

6:

Mode Chart

The Mode allows you to select two bass synthesizers. Each mode will work as follows.

1–9: INTERNAL SOUND MODE

This mode detects the pitch and attack from the input bass guitar sound and creates sound us­ing the internal sound source. Depending on the number selected, the output sound of the in­ternal sound source will differ as follows:

* The SYB-5 not only works with four-string basses, it is compatible with five- and six-string basses as well (the

range for detecting pitch is A0–C5).

SAW WAVE

1:

A sawtooth wave is output. This produces a
sharp-edged sound.

(-1OCT)

A sawtooth wave one octave lower than “1”
is output.

(AUTO)

This automatically shifts the filter frequency
for the sound in “1.”

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SQUARE WAVE

:

A square wave is output. This creates a mild­er sound than that produced with the saw­tooth wave.

(-1OCT)

This outputs a combination of the sound in
“4” with a square wave one octave below it
simultaneously.

(AUTO)

This automatically shifts the filter frequency
for the sound in “4.”

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7:

8:

9:

Mode Chart

PULSE WAVE

1

A pulse wave is output. This produces a
sharp-edged sound, but one that differs from
that produced with the sawtooth wave.

2

This outputs a pulse wave using an all-pass
filter. Creates a sound that has a sense of
depth and motion.

This outputs a fat, spreading sound by mod­ulating the variations in the width of the
pulse wave.

(PWM)

* When using the internal sound modes (MODE 1–

9), the above function will not work properly if you
play chords. So, have all the other strings muted,
and play the bass guitar using single notes.

(Pulse Width Modulation)

10–11: WAVE SHAPE MODE

This mode directly transforms the audio input from the bass guitar into a synthesized bass
sound. The direction in which the frequency shifts differs depending on the number you select.

10: Up

The frequency of the filter rises when the
string is played, then gradually returns to the
original frequency.

11: Down

The frequency of the filter drops when the
string is played, then gradually returns to the
original frequency.

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Operating the Unit

fig.04

fig.05

fig.06

1.

2.

When you have made the
necessary connections (p.

8), set the knobs as shown
in the illustration.

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Depress the pedal switch
to turn the effect on.
(Make sure that the
CHECK indicator lights.)

3. Select the mode with the

MODE knob.

4. Set the

DECAY/RATE

to your taste, depending
on the selected mode.

When MODE is 1, 2, 4, 5, 7–11

Use the knob as a decay knob
to set the time for the frequen­cy of the filter to move.

When MODE is 3, 6

Use the knob as a rate knob to
adjust the speed at which the
filter fluctuates.

knob

fig.07

fig.08

Operating the Unit

fig.09

5. Adjust the frequency of
the filter using the FREQ
knob.

6. Adjust the feedback

amount of the filter using
the RES knob.

7. Adjust the volume of the

effect and direct sounds
using the EFFECT Level
and DIRECT Level
knobs.

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Using the HOLD Function

In the Internal Sound Mode (when MODE 1–9), you can use the Hold function that allows you
to output the effect sound (synthesizer sound) continuously while holding the pedal down. It
is also possible to mix the direct sound to the effect sound continuously being output by play­ing the bass guitar to it.

1. Turn the Effect On by pressing the
Pedal Switch.

2. Select the Internal Sound Mode (MODE
1–9) using the Mode switch.
Set the other knobs to your taste.

3. Play the bass guitar using single notes.

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4. Press the Pedal Switch once again while

the effect sound you wish to output con­tinuously is being played, to hold it.

The Hold function remains in effect and
the CHECK indicator flashes as long as
you continue to press the Pedal Switch. In
this state, the SYB-5 continues to output
the effect sound.

5. To switch off the Hold function, release

the Pedal Switch.

The CHECK indicator will stop flashing
and instead light constantly, showing that
the unit is returned to the normal Effect
On status.

Using the EXP Jack

With an expression pedal (the optional Roland EV-5) connected to the EXP jack, you can then
have the bass synth sound change as you move the pedal.

* Use only the specified expression pedal (EV-5; optional). By connecting any other expression

pedals, you risk causing malfunction and/or damage to the unit.

When MODE is 1, 2, 4, 5, 7–11

You can shift the filter’s frequency by adjusting the expression pedal. This produces an effect
similar to that of a wah pedal.

• You can adjust the filter frequency shifted by movement of the pedal with the FREQ knob.

• You can adjust the range within which the filter frequency shifts with the expression ped­al’s minimum volume.

* The DECAY pedal has no function at this time.

When MODE is 3, 6

Here, adjusting the expression pedal changes the speed (rate) at which the filter fluctuates.

• You can use the RATE knob to adjust the rate for times when the pedal is depressed.

• The rate for times when the pedal is released can be adjusted by means of the expression
pedal’s minimum volume.

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Outputting the Direct Sound and Effect Sound Separately

When you connect a plug to OUTPUT B, only the direct sound is output from the OUTPUT B
jack, and only the effect sound (synth sound) is output from the OUTPUT A (MONO) jack.
This allows you to create the impression that the direct and effect sounds are being output from
separate amps, adding yet a different effect to the sound.

*In this case, sounds are output only from the OUTPUT B jack when the effect is switched off.

fig.10

Bass
Amp

Multiple Effects, etc.

Bass
Amp

Bass Guitar

*To ensure stable conditions, connect the SYB-5 directly to your bass's output. Connect any

additional effects to the SYB-5’s OUTPUT A (MONO) or OUTPUT B jacks.

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Using the Mode Label

The SYB-5 is supplied with a Mode Label which shows the effect obtained with each of the
modes.
The label (which serves as a quick reference) can be attached as shown in the illustration.

fig.11

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Changing the Battery

When the indicator goes dim or no longer
lights while an effect is on, it means that the
battery is nearly dead and must be replaced.
Replace the battery following the steps below.

*

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.

fig.12

Thumbscrew

Battery Snap
Cord

Battery
Snap

9V Battery

Battery Housing

Pedal

Spring Base

Coil Spring

Guide Bush
Hole

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1. Loosen the thumbscrew at the front of

the pedal, then lift the pedal upwards to
open the unit.

* The thumbscrew can be left in the pedal while

changing the battery.

2. Remove the old battery from the battery

housing, and remove the snap cord con­nected to it.

3. Connect the snap cord to the new battery,

and place the battery inside the battery
housing.

* Be sure to carefully observe the battery’s polarity (+

versus –).

4. Slip the coil spring onto the spring base

on the back of the pedal, then close the
pedal.

* Carefully avoid getting the snap cord caught in the

pedal, coil spring and battery housing.

5. Finally, insert the thumbscrew into the

guide bush hole and fasten it securely.

Troubleshooting

Power won’t come on /
CHECK indicator doesn’t light:

● Is the specified adaptor (PSA-series;
sold separately) properly connected?

Check the connection once more (p. 8).

* Never use any AC adapter other than one specified

for use with the SYB-5.

● Is the battery low or dead?

Replace with a new battery (p. 18).

* The battery that was supplied with the unit is for

temporary use, intended primarily for testing its
operation.

* 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.

● Is your bass guitar properly connected to
the INPUT jack?

Check the connection once more (p. 8).

* To prevent useless depletion of the battery when the

unit is running on battery power, the power is
switched on only when a cable is plugged in to the
INPUT jack.

* The CHECK indicator shows whether the effect is

being applied or not. It does not indicate whether
the power to the device is on or not.

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Troubleshooting

No sound / Low volume:

● Is the SYB-5 properly connected to your
instrument?

Check the connection once more (p. 8).

●

Is the volume turned down on any bass
amp or effects device you have connected?

Check the settings of the connected device.

●

Is OUTPUT B connected?

Sounds are output only from the OUT­PUT B jack when the effect is switched off
while a plug is connected to the OUTPUT
B jack. When the effect is off, the output
from the OUTPUT A (MONO) jack is
muted, with no sounds being output.

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Sound is distorted:

● Is the battery low?

As the battery is drained, the CHECK in­dicator dims, and the SYB-5 may start to
function incorrectly. Replace with a new
battery (p. 18).

* The battery that was supplied with the unit is for

temporary use, intended primarily for testing its
operation.

* 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.

● Could the level of the sound being input
be excessive?

With some bass guitars, distortion may be
produced. Be careful of your bass guitar’s
output level.

Effect sounds, filter motion not
stable

● Do you have a device other than a bass
guitar (such as an effects processor) con­nected to the INPUT jack?

To ensure stability of the sound informa­tion input to the SYB-5, do not connect
other effects devices to the INPUT jack.
Connect the bass directly to the SYB-5.
When a guitar or other electric or elec­tronic musical instrument is connected
here, the pitch (the range for detecting
pitch is A0–C5) is not detected correctly.

Troubleshooting

●

Are you playing chords with the SYB-5 set
to an internal sound mode (MODE 1–9)?

The internal sound modes (MODE 1–9)
feature effects meant for use only with
single notes. When chords are to be input,
use Wave Shape Mode.

● Have you increased (boosted) the vol­ume level of a specific frequency range
with a knob on your bass?

Boosting the volume of a specific frequen­cy range using the bass knobs may pre­vent stable operation of the SYB-5.
To ensure stable functioning, adjust the
knobs on your bass so the volume levels
for all frequency ranges are flat.

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Setting Samples

SAW WAVE

fig.13-1

SLOW AUTO FILTER

fig.13-2

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SQUARE WAVE

fig.13-3

FAT SOUND

fig.13-4

Setting Samples

TALKING

fig.13-5

DEEP

fig.13-6

PULSE WIDTH MODULATION

fig.13-7

FILTER SWEEP

fig.13-8

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Setting Memo

fig.14

fig.14

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fig.14

fig.14

Specifications

SYB-5: Bass Synthesizer

Nominal Input Level..................... -20 dBu

Input Impedance............................ 1 MΩ

Nominal Output Level.................. -20 dBu

Output Impedance ........................ 1 kΩ

Recommended Load Impedance

Residual Noise ............................... -96 dBu (IHF-A, Typ.); All knobs at center position

Controls........................................... Pedal switch, EFFECT knob, DIRECT knob, FREQ knob,

Indicators ........................................ CHECK indicator (Serves also as battery check indicator)

Connectors...................................... INPUT jack, OUTPUT A (MONO) jack, OUTPUT B jack,

Power Supply................................. DC 9 V:

...... 10 kΩ or greater

RES knob, DECAY/RATE knob, MODE knob

EXP jack, AC adaptor jack (DC 9 V)

Dry battery/9 V type (6F22 (carbon), 6LR61 (alkaline))

AC Adaptor (PSA-series: optional)

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Specifications

Current Draw ................................. 50 mA (DC 9 V)

* Expected battery life under continuous use:

Carbon: 2 hours, Alkaline: 6 hours
These figures will vary depending on the actual conditions of use.

Dimensions..................................... 73 (W) x 129 (D) x 59 (H) mm

2-7/8 (W) x 5-1/8 (D) x 2-3/8 (H) inches

Weight ............................................. 440 g /1 lb (including battery)

Accessories...................................... Owner’s Manual, Mode Label, Leaflet (“USING THE UNIT

SAFELY,” “IMPORTANT NOTES,” and “Information”),
Dry battery/9 V type (6LR61)

* The battery that was supplied with the unit is for temporary use-

intended primarily for testing its operation.
We also suggest replacing this with an alkaline dry cell.

Options............................................ AC Adaptor (PSA-series)

Expression Pedal (Roland EV-5)

*0 dBu = 0.775 Vrms

* In the interest of product improvement, the specifications and/or appearance of this unit are subject to change

without prior notice.

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For EU Countries

This product complies with the requirements of European Directive 89/336/EEC.

For the USA

FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION

RADIO FREQUENCY INTERFERENCE STATEMENT

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the
FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential
installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee
that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the
interference by one or more of the following measures:

– Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
– Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
– Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
– Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and
(2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Unauthorized changes or modification to this system can void the users authority to operate this equipment.
This equipment requires shielded interface cables in order to meet FCC class B Limit.

For Canada

NOTICE

This Class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations.

Cet appareil numérique de la classe B respecte toutes les exigences du Règlement sur le matériel brouilleur du Canada.

AVIS

G6017385