Thank you, and congratulations on your choice of the BOSS FBM-1 Bassman.
Before using this unit, carefully read the sections entitled: “USING THE UNIT SAFELY” and
“IMPORTANT NOTES” (supplied on a 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 understanding 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.
About COSM (Composite Object Sound Modeling)
Composite Object Sound Modeling—or “COSM” for short—is Roland’s innovative and powerful technology that’s used to digitally recreate the sound of classic musical instruments and
effects. COSM analyzes the many factors that make up the original sound—including its electrical and physical characteristics—and creates a digital model that accurately reproduces the
original.
A battery is supplied with the unit. The life of this battery may be limited, however, since
its primary purpose is to enable testing.
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.
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Main Features
●
Uses COSM technology to model the amp sound of a Fender® BASSMAN®.
●
Makes it easy for you to enjoy that vintage Fender® amp sound simply by connecting the
FBM-1 to your usual guitar amp.
●
Provides a BRIGHT input like the one on an actual BASSMAN® amp.
About the Fender® BASSMAN®
fig.bassman.eps
In 1951, Fender® introduced the first commercially successful electric bass—the Precision Bass®.
The amp developed along with it was the BASSMAN®.
Originally intended for use only with basses, the rich and powerful
sound of the classic four-input “Narrow Panel” version, quickly
earned it a strong following among guitarists playing blues, rock,
country, etc. Reissued in 1990 the BASSMAN® can still be found at
work on live stages and in studios around the world.
Among the several models in the BASSMAN® series, the 1959
model is especially acclaimed, and its circuitry had a major impact
on the designs of amps from other manufacturers. For many, the
BASSMAN® is the mother of all amps!
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Panel Descriptions
fig.FBM-1-name1.eps
12
3
4
5
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1. AC Adaptor Jack
This jack accepts the 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.
* Use only the specified AC adaptor (PSA-
series), and make sure the line voltage at the
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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.
* If the AC adaptor is connected while power is
on, the power supply is drawn from the AC
adaptor.
* If there is a battery in the unit while an AC
adaptor is being used, the FBM-1 will switch
over to battery-powered operation should the
line voltage be interrupted due to a power
blackout or power cord disconnection.
Panel Descriptions
2. CHECK Indicator
This indicator shows whether the effect is on
or off, and also doubles as the battery check
indicator. The indicator lights when the effect is on.
* If you’re powering the unit with a battery and
the CHECK indicator goes dim—or doesn’t
light at all—when you try to turn the effect on,
the battery is near depletion and should be
replaced. For instructions on changing the
battery, refer to “Changing the Battery” (p. 12).
* 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 Jack
This output jack is used for connecting to
guitar amps and other effects processors.
4. Pedal Switch
This switch turns the effect on/off.
5. 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. 12).
6. INPUT Jack, BRIGHT IN Jack
These jacks are for connecting the output
from an electric guitar or other instrument or
effects device.
Using the BRIGHT IN jack makes the treble
range more prominent.
* These jacks double as power switch. Power to
the FBM-1 is turned on when you plug into
the INPUT/BRIGHT IN jack; the power is
turned off when the cable is unplugged.
When not using the FBM-1, be sure to
disconnect the plug from the INPUT/
BRIGHT IN jack.
* INPUT is disabled when the BRIGHT IN
jack is used.
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Panel Descriptions
fig.FBM-1-name2.eps
1091187 12
7. PRESENCE Knob
This adjusts the sound quality of the ultrahigh range.
8. MIDDLE Knob
This knob controls the tone of the effect at
middle frequencies.
9. BASS Knob
This knob controls the tone of the effect at
lower frequencies.
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10. TREBLE Knob
This knob controls the tone of the effect at
higher frequencies.
11. LEVEL Knob
This adjusts the volume of the effect sound.
* No sound is output when this knob is turned
completely counterclockwise.
12. GAIN Knob
This adjusts the amount of distortion and the
volume level. Turning it clockwise makes
distortion stronger and increases the volume
level.