Tech 21 TRI-O.D Owner's Manual

DRIVE

PRODUCT OVERVIEW

This triple channel switching overdrive stomp box offers true channel switching
between three completely different tube amp characters, “Tweed,”“California,” and
“British.” For greater flexibility and usefulness, each channel is independent with its
own Drive and Level controls.Tech 21’s custom footswitch actuator provides a
smooth transition between channels for instantaneous switching.

The TRI-O.D. can be used for live performances with an amp/combo, or to drive a
power amp and guitar speaker cabinets.Turning off all 3 channels enables you to
use the Speaker Simulator and Master Output Section only.This feature is useful
when you want to record direct with a pre-amp, fuzz box, or any other stomp
boxes in your collection.

Manufacturer of the highly-acclaimed SansAmpTMline of Tube Amplifier Emulators,
Tech 21’s proprietary circuitry is engineered in the true tradition of tube ampli­fiers in their totality --with a pre-amp stage and an output stage. It incorporates
the harmonics and sweet overdrive characteristics uniquely inherent to tube
amplifiers.This is largely caused by what is referred to as “push-pull” symmetrical
clipping, which a single tube is physically incapable of accomplishing.

The TRI-O.D. employs aspects of this technology to deliver the same dynamics,
responsiveness, and sound quality of the top pro stage rigs in a conveniently
portable, switchable, pedal format.

WARNING:

DO NOT run the speaker output of any amp directly into
the TRI-O.D. Severe damage to the amp and/or the TRI-O.D.
may result.

LEVEL

DRIVE

INPUT

CH OFF

3

TM

VOLUME TREBLE

LEVEL

DRIVE

LEVEL

SPKR SIM

BASS

CH OFF

CH OFF

2

TWEED CALIF BRITISH

1

OUTPUT

TRI

DC

APPLICATIONS

You can have the best clean, rhythm and lead tones right at your feet. For best
results, we suggest the following:
WITH GUITAR AMPS: Run the output of the TRI-O.D. directly into the input
of the power amp input, a.k.a. “effects return,” (if applicable) of an amp.This will
bypass the tone coloring section of the pre-amp. Otherwise, run the TRI-O.D. into
the front input of an amp. (See Noteworthy Notes section.)
TO DRIVE A POWER AMP: Run the output of the TRI-O.D. into the input of a
power amp and use the master Volume control to adjust your stage volume.
TO RECORD DIRECT: You can plug directly into the input of a mixer/
recorder and use the on-board sounds of the TRI-O.D. or just the Speaker
Simulator Mode by itself with a pre-amp, fuzz box or other effect boxes. Bear in
mind full-range systems yield a wide frequency response.Therefore, we suggest
you start with the TRI-O.D.’s EQ levels at 12 o’clock and increase/decrease, with
restraint, to taste.

GUIDE TO CONTROLS

3 TUBE AMP CHARACTERS / 3 INDEPENDENT CHANNELS

Tweed =

Fender

®

-style
California = Mesa/Boogie®-style
British = Marshall®-style

Each channel is pre-voiced with the specific characteristics of the 3 most coveted
tube amp sounds. Switching between channels changes the entire sound, not just
the gain structure and EQ.

Each channel has its own Drive and Level controls. These controls are atypically
sensitive and need not be set at max for maximum results.

DRIVE adjusts the overall amount of gain and overdrive, similar to when the
output section of a tube amp is being pushed. NOTE: The louder your stage
volume, the less overdrive may be needed for sustain. Best results are
achieved when used sparingly at first, and then adjusted to taste.

LEVEL adjusts the relative output level of each channel --without altering any
of the tonal characteristics.These controls are designed to be set relative to
each other. Use the master Volume control to adjust the overall volume. (We
recommend setting the Master Output Section controls at 1 o’clock to initially
determine desired Level settings, then adjusting to taste.)

®

Fender, Mesa/Boogie and Marshall are all registered trademarks of their respective companies.

Each channel can be turned off so you can designate which tube amp characters
you want to switch between: all 3, 2, just 1, or even none.

# OF CHANNELS ON SWITCHING SEQUENCE

3

x - y - z,x - y - z

, etc.

2

x - y - Bypass,x - y - Bypass

, etc.

1

x - Bypass,x - Bypass

, etc.

0

Speaker Sim-Bypass,Speaker Sim-Bypass

, etc.

MASTER OUTPUT SECTION

BASS & TREBLE

Unlike passive controls that can only cut, these active tone controls cut or boost
±

12dB.This powerful EQ section effectively reduces the need for a fixed frequency
mid control and enables you to achieve an extensive variety of curves --including a
“mid-cut” as well as a “mid-boost.”

The TRI-O.D.’s mid-range level is preset. Boosting Bass and Treble gives you the
equivalent of a “mid-cut” where the relative mid-range level is lower than the Bass
and Treble frequency levels. Cutting Bass and Treble is the equivalent of a “mid­boost” where the relative mid-range level is higher than the Bass and Treble fre-
quency levels. NOTE: The overall output level will change in relation to the adjust­ments you make with the EQ controls.You can compensate accordingly with the
master Volume control.

VOLUME

After setting the individual channel Levels appropriate to each other, the master
Volume control adjusts the overall output level to be suitable for any occasion--

gigging, rehearsing, jamming, recording.

Suggested Initial Set-Up: See cover illustration. Adjust to taste.

NOTEWORTHY NOTES:

-When using the input of an amp, keep the TRI-O.D.’s level close to unity gain, so

as not to overload the amp’s input, which could result in undesirable distortion.

-When running into the power amp input of an amp or a power amp alone, adjust

the Volume as needed. (If you are so inclined, this is the time to crank it!)

-When going direct into a mixer/recorder, work with the input trim control on
the mixer and be sure not to overload its input.

SPEAKER SIMULATOR

The Speaker Simulator is engaged at all times. It shapes the sound to match the
particular cabinet of the amp type selected. It is specifically designed for a smooth,
even response as would be achieved by a multiple-miked cabinet, without peaks,
valleys, and notches associated with single miking. Therefore, it will not adversely
affect or interfere with the sound of your own guitar speaker cabinet.

When you disengage all 3 channels, the Speaker Simulator remains active, as does
the Master Output Section.The switching sequence then becomes Speaker Simulator

- Bypass, Speaker Simulator - Bypass, etc. This feature is useful to:

Record direct with a pre-amp, fuzz box or any other stomp
boxes in your collection that could use some warming up.

Warm up your favorite fuzz boxes in live performances, as well.
Use as a clean boost into the input of a tube amp.

Suggested Initial Set-Up: Turn all channels off. Turn the master Volume to maxi-

mum. Set Bass and Treble at 1 o’clock. Adjust to taste.

SIGNAL LEVEL TO INPUT

The TRI-O.D. is designed to accommodate instrument level signals to the Input,
such as the output of a guitar, the output of a pre-amp, the output of distortion
pedals, etc. Signal level to Input should be close to that of a standard electric guitar
(approx -10dB / 250mV). NOTE: Using hot pickups will increase the gain structure
of the TRI-O.D. For best results, use single coil pickups with Channel 1 (Tweed) and
double coil pickups with Channels 2 and 3 (California and British).

REMEMBER THIS WARNING:

DO NOT run the speaker output of any amp directly into the TRI-O.D.
Severe damage to the amp and/or the TRI-O.D. may result.

PLACEMENT ORDER OF OTHER EFFECTS

Place the following effects BEFORE the TRI-O.D.:

Wah-Wah, Pre-Amp, Compressor, Fuzz Box, Envelope Follower.

Place the following effects AFTER the TRI-O.D.:

Chorus, Delay, EQ, Pitch Shifter, Reverb.

POWER REQUIREMENTS

*Utilizes standard 9V alkaline battery (not included).To install, simply

remove back plate. (NOTE: The Input activates battery.To conserve
energy, unplug when not in use.) Power Consumption: approx. 10mA.

*USE DC POWER SUPPLY ONLY! Failure to do so may damage

the unit and void warranty. DC Power Supply Specifications:

-9V DC regulated or unregulated, 100mA minimum;

-2.1mm female plug, center negative (-).

WARNINGS:

* Attempting to repair unit is not recommended and may void warranty.
* Missing or altered serial numbers automatically void warranty. For your

own protection, be sure serial number labels on the unit’s back plate and
exterior box are intact.

ONE YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY. PROOF OF PURCHASE
REQUIRED. Manufacturer warrants unit to be free from defects in materials

and workmanship for one (1) year from date of purchase. This warranty does not
include damage resulting from accident, misuse, abuse, alteration, or incorrect cur­rent or voltage. If unit becomes defective within warranty period,Tech 21 will
elect to repair or replace it free of charge.After warranty expires, Tech 21 will
repair defective unit for a fee.

ALL REPAIRS for residents of U.S. and Canada: Call Tech 21 for Return
Authorization Number. Manufacturer will not accept packages without prior

authorization, pre-paid freight (UPS preferred) and proper insurance.

FOR PERSONAL ASSISTANCE & SERVICE:

Contact Tech 21, Inc., any weekday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, EST.

MADE IN THE U.S.A.

TECH 21

.

NYC

333 West 52nd Street, NY, New York 10019
212-315-1116 / Fax: [phone] / www.tech21nyc.com