Yamaha GW50 User Manual
FCC INFORMATION (U.S.A.)
1. IMPORTANT NOTICE: DO NOT MODIFY THIS UNIT!
This product, when installed as indicated in the instructions contained in this manual, meets FCC requirements. Modifications not expressly approved
by Yamaha may void your authority, granted by the FCC, to use the product.
2. IMPORTANT: When connecting this product to accessories and/or another product use only high quality shielded cables. Cable/s supplied with this
product MUST be used. Follow all installation instructions. Failure to follow instructions could void your FCC authorization to use this product in the
USA.
3. NOTE: This product has been tested and found to comply with the requirements listed in FCC Regulations, Part 15 for Class ”B” digital devices.
Compliance with these requirements provides a reasonable level of assurance that your use of this product in a residential environment will not
result in harmful interference with other electronic devices. This equipment generates/uses radio frequencies and, if not installed and used according
to the instructions found in the users manual, may cause interference harmful to the operation of other electronic devices. Compliance with FCC
regulations does not guarantee that interference will not occur in all installations. If this product is found to be the source of interference, which can
be determined by turning the unit ”OFF” and ”ON”, please try to eliminate the problem by using one of the following measures:
Relocate either this product or the device that is being affected by the interference.
Utilize power outlets that are on different branch (circuit breaker or fuse) circuits or install AC line filter/s.
In the case of radio or TV interference, relocate/reorient the antenna. If the antenna lead-in is 300 ohm ribbon lead, change the lead-in to co-axial type
cable.
If these corrective measures do not produce satisfactory results, please contact the local retailer authorized to distribute this type of product. If you
can not locate the appropriate retailer, please contact Yamaha Corporation of America, Electronic Service Division, 6600 Orangethorpe Ave, Buena
Park, CA 90620
The above statements apply ONLY to those products distributed by Yamaha Corporation of America or its subsidiaries.
* This applies only to products distributed by YAMAHA CORPORATION OF AMERICA.
Litiumbatteri!
Bör endast bytas av servicepersonal.
Explosionsfara vid felaktig hantering.
VAROITUS!
Lithiumparisto, Räjähdysvaara.
Pariston saa vaihtaa ainoastaan alan
ammattimies.
ADVARSEL!
Lithiumbatteri!
Eksplosionsfare. Udskiftning må kun foretages
af en sagkyndig, – og som beskrevet i
servicemanualen.
CANADA
THIS DIGITAL APPARATUS DOES NOT EXCEED THE “CLASS B” LIMITS FOR RADIO
NOISE EMISSIONS FROM DIGITAL APPARATUS SET OUT IN THE RADIO INTERFERENCE REGULATION OF THE CANADIAN DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS.
LE PRESENT APPAREIL NUMERIQUE N’EMET PAS DE BRUITS RADIOELECTRIQUES
DEPASSANT LES LIMITES APPLICABLES AUX APPAREILS NUMERIQUES DE LA “CLASSE
B” PRESCRITES DANS LE REGLEMENT SUR LE BROUILLAGE RADIOELECTRIQUE
EDICTE PAR LE MINISTERE DES COMMUNICATIONS DU CANADA.
* This applies only to products distributed by YAMAHA CANADA MUSIC LTD.
* Ceci ne s’applique qu’aux produits distribués par Yamaha Canada Musique Ltée.
SPECIAL MESSAGE SECTION
This product utilizes an external power supply (adapter). DO NOT
connect this product to any power supply or adapter other than one
described in the manual, on the name plate, or specifically recommended by Yamaha.
WARNING: Do not place this product in a position where anyone
could walk on, trip over, or roll anything over power or connecting
cords of any kind. The use of an extension cord is not recommended! If you must use an extension cord, the minimum wire size
for a 25’ cord (or 1 cm) is I8 AWG. NOTE: The smaller the AWG
number, the larger the current handling capacity. For longer extension cords, consult a local electrician.
This product should be used only with the components supplied, or
a cart, rack, or stand that is recommended by Yamaha. If a cart,
etc., is used, please observe all safety markings and instructions
that accompany the accessory product.
SPECIFICATIONS SUBJECT TO CHANGE: The information
contained in this manual is believed to be correct at the time of
printing. However, Yamaha reserves the right to change or modify
any of the specifications without notice or obligation to update
existing units.
Do not attempt to service this product beyond that described in the
user-maintenance instructions. All other servicing should be referred to qualified service personnel.
Battery Notice: This product MAY contain a small non-rechargeable battery which (if applicable) is soldered in place. The average
life span of this type of battery is approximately five years. When
replacement becomes necessary, contact a qualified service representative to perform the replacement.
This product may also use “household” type batteries. Some of
these may be rechargeable. Make sure that the battery being
charged is a rechargeable type and that the charger is intended for
the battery being charged.
When installing batteries, do not mix old batteries with new, or
with batteries of a different type. Batteries MUST be installed correctly. Mismatches or incorrect installation may result in overheating and battery case rupture.
Warning: Do not attempt to disassemble, or incinerate any battery.
Keep all batteries away from children. Dispose of used batteries
promptly and as regulated by the laws in your area. Note: Check
with any retailer of household type batteries in your area for battery
disposal information.
Disposal Notice: Should this product become damaged beyond repair, or for some reason its useful life is considered to be at an end,
please observe all local, state, and federal regulations that relate to
the disposal of products that contain lead, batteries, plastics, etc. If
your dealer is unable to assist you, please contact Yamaha directly.
This product, either alone or in combination with an amplifier and
headphones or speaker/s, may be capable of producing sound levels
that could cause permanent hearing loss. DO NOT operate for long
periods 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 consult an audiologist. IMPORTANT: The louder the
sound, the shorter the time period before damage occurs.
Some Yamaha products may have benches and/or accessory mounting fixtures that are either supplied with the product or as optional
accessories. Some of these items are designed to be dealer assembled or installed. Please make sure that benches are stable and any
optional fixtures (where applicable) are well secured BEFORE
using. Benches supplied by Yamaha are designed for seating only.
No other uses are recommended.
NOTICE: Service charges incurred due to lack of knowledge relating to how a function or effect works (when the unit is operating as
designed) are not covered by the manufacturer’s warranty, and are
therefore the owner’s responsibility. Please study this manual carefully and consult your dealer before requesting service.
ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES: Yamaha strives to produce products that are both user safe and environmentally friendly. We sincerely believe that our products and the production methods used to
produce them, meet these goals. In keeping with both the letter and
the spirit of the law, we want you to be aware of the following:
NAME PLATE LOCATION: The graphic below indicates the location of the name plate for this model. The model number, serial
number, power requirements, etc., are located on this plate. You
should record the model number, serial number, and the date of
purchase in the spaces provided below and retain this manual as a
permanent record of your purchase.
Model
Serial No.
Purchase Date
92-BP
PLEASE KEEP THIS MANUAL
Congratulations and thank you for purchasing the Yamaha GW50 Guitar Performance Effector.
The GW50 combines high-quality multi effects for guitar (and other instruments as well) with a
sophisticated backing section that provides realistic automatic rhythmic accompaniment for you
to play along with. The dual functions — effects and backing — make the GW50 useful in a wide
range of applications, from live performance and studio use to home recording and individual
music practice.
Some of the advanced features of the GW50 include:
Effect Section
■ Five basic effect blocks, featuring Compressor,
Distortion, Equalizer, Chorus and Reverb/
Delay, plus additional effect types within each
block, such as Overdrive, Wah, Amp Simulator,
Flanger, Phaser, Pitch Shifter, Tap Delay, and a
built-in Noise Gate.
■ User memory for storing up to 50 user-created
effect programs, all instantly selectable from
the convenient Pedal Switches. (See pages 11,
25.)
■ High-quality sound in all effects, plus added
sonic benefit of having all effects integrated
into one unit.
■ Comprehensive parameter control over all
effects, yet exceptional ease-of-use — you can
adjust the main parameters of the effect blocks
just as you would on conventional pedal effects.
Backing Section
■ A total of 248 automatic rhythm and accompa-
niment patterns, using realistic drum, bass and
other backing instrument sounds. (See page 32.)
The automatic accompaniment includes sophisticated chord control, with 25 different chord
types available in all keys. (See pages 33-35.)
■ Song record capability, for creating songs with
the rhythm/accompaniment patterns and chord
changes, as well as automating effect program
changes, effect bypass and other functions. (See
pages 36-38.)
■ A special Root Select function (see page 78),
which lets you change the root note of the
backing chord by playing the note on your
guitar, and Triggered Run (see page 82), which
allows you to start a song or pattern just by
playing a note on your guitar.
Other Features
■ Convenient Pedal Switch control over many
functions, including chord change, start/stop of
pattern/song playback, bypassing of effects, and
so on.
■ Built-in tuner, allowing you to tune your instru-
ment without removing it from the signal chain.
(See page 39.)
■ Various MIDI features for interfacing with a
wide range of other MIDI devices. (See pages
101-107.)
i
PRECAUTIONS
PRECAUTIONS
■ USE THE CORRECT POWER
SUPPLY
Power to the GW50 should be supplied only
from the appropriate Yamaha AC adaptor (the
included PA-3). Use of another adaptor may
cause serious damage to the unit. Also make
sure that the adaptor you have is appropriate for
the AC mains supply voltage in the area where
you intend to use the GW50. (The correct input
voltage is marked on the adaptor.)
■ USE ONLY APPROPRIATE FOOT
CONTROLLERS AND
FOOTSWITCHES
Certain functions of the GW50 can be controlled by the optional Yamaha FC7 Foot Con-
troller and the FC5 (or FC4) Footswitch. Use
of any other pedal or footswitch besides those
recommended here may result in erratic operation or may cause some other trouble in the foot
controller or footswitch itself.
■ MEMORY BACKUP
(This message appears only when the power is
turned on, and stays in the LCD until a panel
button is pressed.) When this happens, save all
original data to a MIDI data storage device (see
note below) or write down all necessary settings
to a piece of paper, then have the battery
replaced by qualified Yamaha service personnel as soon as possible. DO NOT ATTEMPT
TO REPLACE THE BACKUP BATTERY
YOURSELF!
BACKING UP DATA—We recommend that you
transfer all important data to a MIDI data re-
IMPORTANT
corder, such as the Yamaha MDF2 MIDI Data Filer
or another data storage device, for safe, longterm storage. (For more information, refer to the
section on the MIDI Bulk Dump function, page
102.) Yamaha cannot be held responsible for data
loss caused by battery failure or improper
operation of the GW50.
The GW50 memorizes the following data, even
when the power is turned off: Memory effect
program data, Manual effect data (excepting
main parameter values), song data, and
general panel settings. The GW50 contains a
special long-life lithium battery that retains this
data in the internal RAM memory. The battery
should last for approximately five years from
the date of manufacture. When the backup
battery power becomes too low to maintain the
memory contents, a warning message appears
in the LCD:
ii
PRECAUTIONS
■ AVOID PHYSICAL SHOCKS
Although the GW50 has been constructed to
withstand the normal rigors of stage and studio
use for optimum sturdiness and reliability,
avoid subjecting it to strong physical shocks
(such as dropping or hitting it), since this may
damage the unit. Since the GW50 is a precision-made electronic device, also avoid applying excessive force to the various controls.
Also, avoid stepping on any part of the GW50
other than the Pedal Switches, since this may
damage or break the controls or glass of the
display.
PRECAUTIONS
■ AVOID EXCESSIVE HEAT,
HUMIDITY, DUST AND VIBRATION
Keep the unit away from locations where it is
likely to be exposed to high temperatures (such
as direct sunlight) or humidity. Also avoid
locations which are subject to excessive dust
accumulation or vibration which could cause
mechanical damage.
■ DO NOT OPEN THE CASE OR
ATTEMPT REPAIRS OR
MODIFICATIONS YOURSELF
This product contains no user-serviceable parts.
Refer all maintenance to qualified Yamaha
service personnel. Opening the case and/or
tampering in any way with the internal circuitry
will void the warranty.
■ MAKE SURE POWER IS OFF
BEFORE MAKING OR REMOVING
CONNECTIONS
■ CLEAN WITH A SOFT, DRY CLOTH
Never use solvents such as benzine or thinner to
clean the unit, since these will damage the
finish. Wipe clean with a soft, dry cloth. If
necessary, use a soft, clean cloth slightly moistened with a diluted, mild detergent — making
sure to wipe the case off again with a dry cloth.
■ ELECTRICAL INTERFERENCE
Since the GW50 contains digital circuitry, it
may cause interference and noise if placed too
close to TV sets, radios or similar equipment. If
such a problem occurs, move the GW50 further
away from the affected equipment.
■ MIDI CABLES
When connecting the GW50 to other MIDI
equipment, be sure to use only high-quality
cables made especially for MIDI data transmission. Also avoid cables longer than 15 meters,
since long cables can result in data errors.
Always turn the power off prior to connecting
or disconnecting cables.
■ HANDLE ALL CONNECTIONS
CAREFULLY
Always be careful to connect and disconnect all
cables and cords by gripping the connector
itself, not by pulling on the cord.
PRECAUTIONS
iii
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PRECAUTIONS.................................................... ii
HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL
(READ THIS FIRST!!) ......................................... 1
THE GW50:
WHAT IT IS AND WHAT IT CAN DO ............. 2
PANEL CONTROLS AND TERMINALS .......... 5
ASSIGNABLE BLOCK AND PEDAL
SWITCH FUNCTIONS ................................ 10
GUIDED TOUR (TUTORIAL) — SETTING UP,
PLAYING AND USING YOUR GW50
SETTING UP AND PLAYING YOUR
GW50 .................................................................... 19
DEMO MODE — PLAYING THE
DEMONSTRATION SONGS .............................. 22
EFFECT SECTION ............................................... 24
PLAYING WITH SOME OF THE
EFFECTS .......................................................... 24
CHANGING THE SOUND OF
THE EFFECTS ................................................. 26
REFERENCE/EFFECT SECTION
ABOUT THE MANUAL, MEMORY AND
MEMORY EDIT MODES .................................... 43
MANUAL MODE ................................................. 44
Selecting an Effect Type ............................... 44
Turning Individual Effects On and Off......... 44
Editing Parameters ........................................ 44
Utility Functions............................................ 45
Determining the Order of the Effect
Blocks — CONNECT............................... 45
Bypass Switching of Effect Blocks —
GROUP ..................................................... 45
Setting the Function of the External Foot
Controller — FOOT.................................. 46
Setting the MINIMUM VOLUME Level
(for External Foot Controller and
ASSIGNABLE Block Volume Control) —
MIN VOL.................................................. 47
ASSIGNABLE Block Functions —
MIN/MAX Volume and Auto Volume......... 48
Setting the AUTO VOLUME Rate —
AUTO VOL .................................................. 49
CHANGING (EDITING) AN EFFECT
PROGRAM AND SAVING IT ........................ 29
USING THE NOISE GATE TO GET
A CLEAN SIGNAL .......................................... 31
BACKING SECTION ........................................... 32
PLAYING PATTERNS —
PATTERN MODE ............................................ 32
PLAYING AND RECORDING SONGS —
SONG MODE ................................................... 36
USING THE BUILT-IN TUNER ......................... 39
iv
TABLE OF CONTENTS
MANUAL JOB MODE ........................................ 50
Saving the Manual Mode Settings to
an Effect Program ......................................... 50
MEMORY MODE ................................................ 51
Selecting Effect Programs............................. 51
Checking Parameter Values of the Effect
Program ......................................................... 51
ASSIGNABLE Block and Pedal Switch
Functions ....................................................... 51
Effect Program Selection .......................... 51
Bypass Switching of Effect Blocks .......... 52
TABLE OF CONTENTS
MEMORY EDIT MODE .................................. 53
Compare Mode (Comparing the Edited
Program with the Original) ........................... 53
Saving the Memory Edit Mode Settings to
an Effect Program ......................................... 53
Recalling the Settings of the Original Program
(in Compare Condition) ................................ 54
MEMORY JOB MODE .................................... 54
Copying an Effect Program .......................... 54
Swapping One Effect Program with
Another.......................................................... 55
Naming an Effect Program ........................... 55
Using an External Footswitch ....................... 56
RESTORING FACTORY PRESET EFFECT
PROGRAMS ..................................................... 57
EFFECTS AND PARAMETERS ......................... 58
COMPRESSOR................................................. 58
DISTORTION ................................................... 59
SONG MODE ....................................................... 79
SONG PLAY MODE
(SONG PLAYBACK)....................................... 79
Selecting and Playing Songs ......................... 79
Cursor Control in Song Mode....................... 80
Changing the Tempo ..................................... 80
Muting the Accompaniment, Bass and
Drums ............................................................ 80
Position Controls........................................... 81
ASSIGNABLE Block and Pedal Switch
Functions in Song Mode ............................... 82
Backing Control —
Selecting and Playing a Song ................... 82
Triggered Run ........................................... 82
RECORDING AND EDITING SONGS .......... 83
REALTIME RECORDING MODE
(REALTIME RECORDING)............................ 83
ASSIGNABLE Block and Pedal Switch
Functions in Song Realtime Recording ........ 86
EQUALIZER..................................................... 59
CHORUS........................................................... 63
REVERB/DELAY............................................. 66
NOISE GATE ................................................... 69
REFERENCE/BACKING SECTION
PATTERN MODE ................................................ 73
Selecting and Playing Patterns...................... 73
Cursor Control in Pattern Mode.................... 74
Changing Chords........................................... 74
Changing the Tempo ..................................... 76
Muting the Accompaniment, Bass and
Drums ............................................................ 76
ASSIGNABLE Block and Pedal Switch
Functions in Pattern Mode ............................ 77
Backing Control ........................................ 77
Chord Recall ............................................. 77
Root Select ................................................ 78
Hints on Realtime Recording........................ 87
STEP RECORDING MODE
(STEP RECORDING)....................................... 88
SONG EDIT MODE (SONG EDITING) ......... 90
Viewing Recorded Events............................. 90
Editing (Changing) Recorded Events ........... 92
Erasing Recorded Events .............................. 92
Set A and Set B Operations .......................... 92
Marking Measure A and Measure B......... 92
Jumping to Measure A or Measure B....... 92
Loop (Repeat) Playback (A to B) ............. 92
Loop (Repeat) Recording (A to B) ........... 93
SONG JOB MODE ........................................... 94
Copying Measures Between A and B ........... 94
Deleting Measures Between A and B ........... 94
Naming Songs ............................................... 95
RESTORING FACTORY PRESET SONGS ... 95
TABLE OF CONTENTS
v
TABLE OF CONTENTS
REFERENCE/OTHER FUNCTIONS
(TUNER/MIDI)
TUNER MODE ..................................................... 99
ASSIGNABLE BLOCK AND PEDAL
SWITCH FUNCTIONS CHART .......................... 128
MIDI ...................................................................... 101
MIDI BULK TRANSMISSION MODE .......... 102
CHANGING EFFECT PROGRAMS ON
THE GW50 FROM A CONNECTED
DEVICE ............................................................ 103
CHANGING PROGRAMS ON A CONNECTED
DEVICE FROM THE GW50 ........................... 104
TURNING INDIVIDUAL EFFECTS
ON AND OFF FROM A CONNECTED
DEVICE ............................................................ 104
SYNCHRONIZING ANOTHER DEVICE
WITH THE GW50 ............................................ 105
USING THE BACKING PATTERNS
TO PLAY OTHER SOUND MODULES ........ 106
APPENDICES
ERROR MESSAGES ............................................ 111
TROUBLESHOOTING ........................................ 114
EFFECT PARAMETER CHART ......................... 130
FACTORY SET MEMORY EFFECT
PROGRAM LIST .................................................. 132
MEMORY EFFECT PARAMETER LIST........... 133
MANUAL EFFECT FACTORY SET
PARAMETER CHART ........................................ 143
PRESET PATTERN LIST .................................... 144
DRUM AND PERCUSSION SOUNDS
USED FOR DRUM PARTS ................................. 146
FACTORY SET SONG LIST............................... 147
MIDI SPECIFICATIONS ..................................... 148
MIDI IMPLEMENTATION CHART .................. 150
SPECIFICATIONS ............................................... 117
INDEX ................................................................... 119
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
BLOCK DIAGRAM ............................................. 125
JOB TABLE .......................................................... 126
CHART OF CHORD FINGERINGS
FOR GUITAR ....................................................... 152
USE OF ADVANCED RECORDING TECHNIQUES
– FACTORY SET SONG 1 .................................. 153
DEMO SONG 1-6 – CHORD CHARTS .............. 156
vi
TABLE OF CONTENTS
HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL (READ THIS FIRST!)
HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL
You are probably eager to try out your new GW50
right away and hear what it can do, rather than
have to read through a lot of instructions before
you can even get a sound out of it.
Before you do anything else, however, you should
read the PRECAUTIONS section. This tells you
briefly how to care for your new GW50, how to
avoid damaging it, and how to ensure long-term,
reliable operation.
Next, read through the section The GW50:
WHAT IT IS AND WHAT IT CAN DO.
This briefly gives you an overview of the
functions of the GW50 and how you can use it
effectively.
The bulk of the manual has been organized into
two parts: the GUIDED TOUR (TUTORIAL)
and the REFERENCE section.
Read the GUIDED TOUR (TUTORIAL) next. It
guides you step-by-step in setting up your GW50,
connecting it properly, and (most importantly!)
getting sound out of it. The section also goes on to
take you through some of the more important
functions of the GW50, explaining by way of
example how to use it.
The PANEL CONTROLS AND TERMINALS is
also mainly for reference. However, you should
read through the parts here concerning the Pedal
Switches, since these are particularly useful and
convenient in operating the GW50. In general,
look through this section to familiarize yourself
with the controls, and refer to it when necessary.
The INDEX in the APPENDICES sections at the
back of this manual is also very helpful. It lists and
gives page numbers for virtually every function,
feature, control and terminal found on the GW50,
and gives you a quick, easy way to find what
you’re looking for.
Other parts of the APPENDICES and SUPPLE-
MENTAL INFORMATION sections provide
additional useful information: lists of all effect
programs, patterns and songs of the GW50, a list
of error messages, tips on troubleshooting (when
something doesn’t work as expected), and other
important information.
(READ THIS FIRST!!)
The REFERENCE section, on the other hand, is a
comprehensive guide to all functions. You won’t
need (or want) to read through all of it at once, but
it is there for you to refer to when you need information about a certain feature or function.
HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL
(READ THIS FIRST!!)
1
THE GW50: WHAT IT IS AND WHAT IT CAN DO
THE GW50: WHAT IT IS AND WHAT IT CAN DO
WHAT IT IS …
Effect and Backing Sections
The GW50 is actually two different devices in one.
On the one hand, it has an Effect section which
provides high-quality and easy-to-use multi effects
designed especially for processing electric guitar.
On the other, it has a Backing section which
provides realistic automatic rhythm, chord and
bass patterns for creating your own accompaniment. Moreover, the GW50 includes a built-in
tuner for tuning your instrument without having to
remove it from the effect chain.
The Effect section has two mode groups: Manual,
which lets you use the GW50 effects just as would
a normal pedal effect unit, and Memory, which
lets you call up preset effect programs and create
your own original programs.
The Backing section also has two mode groups:
Pattern, which lets you play the various rhythm
patterns, and Song, which lets you play pre-programmed songs and create your own original
songs.
Modes of the GW50
The tree chart on the next page shows the relationships of the various modes of the GW50. There
are four main modes — Manual, Memory, Pattern
and Song — indicated by the shaded areas. All
other modes are either separate from them (as with
Tuner, MIDI Bulk Transmission and Demo) or are
subordinate to them.
The Effect and Backing sections are active simultaneously; however, when making adjustments or
performing certain operations within a mode in
one of the sections, generally you should press the
desired mode button ([MANUAL], [MEMORY]
or [SONG/PATTERN]) to make sure that the
mode is properly called up before attempting the
operation.
Functions in Each Mode
Specific functions and operations of the various
modes include:
Manual: Changing the parameters of the effects.
Manual Job: Storing parameter settings to a pro-
gram.
Memory: Selecting and using an effect program.
Memory Edit: Changing the parameters of an
effect program.
Memory Edit Compare: Comparing the sound and
values of edited program with the
original.
Memory Job: Copying, swapping and naming
effect programs.
Pattern: Playing the patterns of the Backing sec-
tion.
Song: Playing a song, or using the Step Recording
features to edit a song.
Song Realtime Recording: Recording events to a
song in realtime.
Song Job: Copying or deleting measures within a
song; naming a song.
Keep in mind as you read this manual that the
phrase “main modes” refers to the Manual,
Memory, Pattern and Song modes, and that
“mode buttons” refers to the [MANUAL],
[MEMORY] and [SONG/PATTERN] buttons.
2
THE GW50: WHAT IT IS AND WHAT IT CAN DO
EFFECT SECTION
THE GW50: WHAT IT IS AND WHAT IT CAN DO
MANUAL MODE
or
MEMORY MODE
BACKING SECTION
PATTERN MODE
or
SONG MODE
(PLAY / STEP RECORDING / EDIT)
or
TUNER MODE
or
MIDI BULK TRANSMISSION MODE
or
DEMO MODE
JOB MODE
EDIT MODE
COMPARE MODE
or
JOB MODE
REALTIME RECORDING MODE
or
JOB MODE
Main modes
The illustration below shows what comprises an
effect program (either Manual or Memory), and
Contents of an Effect Program
ONE EFFECT PROGRAM
Noise
Gate
EFFECT
ORDER
IN
EFFECT
TYPE
EFFECT
PARAMETERS
BYPASS
SETTINGS
OTHER UTILITY
SETTINGS (Group, Foot Controller, Minimum Volume, Auto Volume)
order changeable
Compressor
Distortion Equalizer Chorus
•DIST1
•DIST2
•DIST3
•DIST4
•Overdrive
•
Equalizer
•
Wah+EQ
•Amp
Simulator
+EQ
order changeble
Reverb/Delay
•
Chorus 1
•Chorus 2
•Pitch
Shifter
•Flanger
•Phaser
•Reverb
Delay (Tap)
•
•Delay
+Reverb
OUT
the bank number/program number configuration to
which they can be stored.
Manual Effect Program
write
(store)
Memory Effect Program
There are 50 factory preset memory
effect programs. These can be freely
edited and stored.
Bank
number
Program number
THE GW50: WHAT IT IS AND WHAT IT CAN DO
3
THE GW50: WHAT IT IS AND WHAT IT CAN DO
The illustration below shows how the Pattern
mode and Song mode are used.
Pattern Mode
In the Pattern mode, individual patterns are played
back and repeated.
(for examples,
2 measures)
WHAT IT CAN DO …
Here are a few ideas on how you can
use your GW50. The list below is in
no way comprehensive, but is meant
to be a starting point or springboard for your own creative ideas
and explorations.
■ All-in-one effect unit for
on the stage, in the
studio, or in rehearsal
With its five effect blocks, the GW50 has all you
need to augment your sound, whatever the application. Any or all five effects can be used in virtually
any combination as an effect program, and you can
instantly select from 50 different effect programs
as you play. Plus, flexible effect bypass (on/off)
functions give you even more real time control
over the sound.
Song Mode
In the Song mode, the preset patterns can be strung
together to create a song. Other events, such as
chord changes and muting events, can also be
entered.
Pattern A Pattern B
Recorded events (chord changes, muting events etc.)
Having the full accompaniment behind you is a
much more inspiring and exciting way of
practicing than using just a metronome.
■ Sketchpad for composing and
arranging
The accompaniment features can also be used to
help you flesh out your own musical ideas. With
the wealth of chords (a total of 25 different chord
types for each of the 12 keys) and the convenient
editing features, the GW50 makes it exceptionally
easy to quickly turn your inspirations into complete
songs. Plus, the extraordinarily realistic sounds
give you the tools to present polished versions of
your ideas to others.
Now that you have a basic idea of how the GW50
can help you in your music, go on to the GUIDED
TOUR (TUTORIAL), and learn how to set up and
use your GW50.
■ Convenient practice tool
The rhythm, bass and accompaniment patterns of
the GW50 are perfect for playing along with. By
stringing together the rhythm patterns and recording chord changes, you can create and playback
complete songs over which you can practice.
4
THE GW50: WHAT IT IS AND WHAT IT CAN DO
PANEL CONTROLS AND TERMINALS
This section shows and explains all of the controls and terminals of the GW50. Since
the explanations below are fairly brief, you should turn to the page references given
for more information on individual buttons and features.
A few general comments:
PANEL CONTROLS AND TERMINALS
■ Some of the buttons described below must be
pressed together to call up a certain function.
These are indicated either by a “+” mark (for
example, “[SHIFT] + [SUB PARAM]”), or by
the word “with” (for example, “With
[SHIFT]:”).
■ Markings for three of the panel controls which
are used simultaneously with another control —
SHIFT
CHORD
,
and B (for the ASSIGNABLE Block Pedal Switch) — are enclosed in a
border which indicates the direction(s) in which
their companion controls can be found. For
example, the
CHORD
mark points to the right,
indicating that the settings below the buttons on
the right can be selected by simultaneously
pressing
CHORD
and the appropriate button.
■ Also, keep in mind that the function which is
enabled — simultaneously holding down
SHIFT
,
or B, and pressing that
CHORD
button — is always printed below the button.
■ The buttons whose primary functions are indi-
cated in boxed titles above each button
([MANUAL], [MEMORY] and [SONG/PAT-
TERN]) are referred to as the “mode buttons”
and can be conveniently used as exit buttons to
“escape” from most in-progress operations
(such as Copying, Naming, MIDI Bulk
Transmission, etc.).
■ All controls that are used to increase or de-
crease values feature continuous and rapid
operation, to let you more quickly and easily
reach a desired value. With the [–]/[+] buttons,
hold down one button to continuously move
through the values and, while holding down
that button, press the other to increase the
speed. Releasing the second button returns to
normal speed. With Pedal Switches 1 and 2
(when used for [–]/[+] control) and the Position
Control buttons (<, >, etc.), holding down the
appropriate control moves through the values
with increasing speed.
PANEL CONTROLS AND TERMINALS
5
PANEL CONTROLS AND TERMINALS
■ TOP PANEL
s
4
5 6
2
7
8 9
3
1Effect Type Switch
• For selecting the different effect types available
in each effect block. These are active only in the
Manual and Memory Edit modes. (See pages 26,
44.)
2Parameter Knobs
• For adjusting the main parameters of the effects. These are active only in the Manual and
Memory Edit modes. (See page 26.)
3Effect Block Pedal Switches
• The Pedal Switches have different functions
depending on the mode selected.
In Manual mode: For turning individual effect
blocks (or groups) on and off. (See page 11.)
In Memory mode: For selecting effect pro-
grams and changing the banks of the effect
programs. (See page 11.) Also, when ASSIGNABLE Pedal Switch has been pressed
twice quickly, for turning individual effect
blocks (or groups) on and off. (See page 11.)
20
14
11
10
1
12 13
15
16
21
18
17
24
In Memory Edit mode: For selecting which
effect blocks are active in an effect program.
(See page 11.)
In Pattern mode: For performing various
control functions, such as (when BACKING
CONTROL is selected) selecting patterns,
starting or stopping a pattern, or (in CHORD
RECALL) changing to pre-assigned chords.
(See page 12.)
In Song mode (playback): For performing
various control functions, such as: selecting
songs, fast forwarding/rewinding within a
song, starting/stopping songs. (See page 13.)
In Song mode (recording): For starting or
stopping song recording and selecting preassigned chords. (See page 13.)
• The REVERB/DELAY Pedal Switch is also
used as a delay time tap control. (See page 67.)
For more information on the Pedal Switches, see the
boxed section “ASSIGNABLE BLOCK AND PEDAL
SWITCH FUNCTIONS” on pages 10-14.
22
19
23
6
PANEL CONTROLS AND TERMINALS
PANEL CONTROLS AND TERMINALS
4MANUAL (TUNER)
• For selecting the Manual mode. Pressing this
button in any operating condition calls up the
Manual mode.
• With [SHIFT]: For selecting the Tuner
function. (See pages 39, 99.)
5MEMORY (COPY/NAME)
• For selecting the Memory mode. Pressing this
button in any operating condition calls up the
Memory mode.
• With [SHIFT]: For calling up (and toggling
between) the Effect Copy, Effect Swap and
Effect Name operations.
6EDIT/COMPARE (MIDI BULK)
• In Memory mode: Selects the Memory
Edit mode, and serves as a Compare switch to
toggle between the newly edited settings of an
effect program and its original settings (the
LED flashes in the Compare condition). (See
pages 29, 53.)
• With [SHIFT]: For calling up the MIDI
Bulk Transmission operation. (See page 102.)
7Effect Utility Switch
(CONNECT … AUTO VOL)/(SUB PARAM)
• For selecting the miscellaneous Utility functions of the GW50:
■ CONNECT — For determining the order of
the effect blocks. (See page 45.)
■ GROUP — For simultaneously switching
several effect blocks on/off. (See page 45.)
■ FOOT (Foot Controller) — For determin-
ing how the optional FC7 Foot Controller is
used. (See pages 46, 47.)
■
MIN VOL (Minimum Volume) — For determining the minimum volume setting for the
optional FC7 Foot Controller and the ASSIGNABLE Block Pedal Switch (which can be used
to instantly change between minimum and
maximum volume). (See page 47.)
■ AUTO VOL (Auto Volume) — ASSIGN-
ABLE Block Pedal Switch can be used to
gradually fade up volume at the rate set here.
(See page 49.)
• With [SHIFT]: For calling up Noise
Gate effect parameter. (See pages 31, 69.)
This also calls up the sub parameters of the
Equalizer, Chorus and Reverb/Delay effects.
(See page 44.)
8~# Position Control Buttons
8~@ Effect Selector Buttons
8CMP/<< (SONG NAME)
• After pressing [SHIFT] + [SUB PARAM]:
Calls up Noise Gate parameter.
• In Connect and Group functions: Selects
Compressor effect block.
• In Song mode: For moving to the top of the
current or last measure. Hold down for rapid
operation.
• In Song mode, with [v]: For returning to the
beginning of a song.
9DST/< (MEAS DEL)
• After pressing [SHIFT] + [SUB PARAM]:
Calls up Noise Gate parameter.
• In Connect and Group functions: Selects
Distortion effect block.
• In Song mode: For moving backward in 16th-
note steps. Hold down for rapid operation.
• In Song mode (with [SHIFT]): For deleting a
selected range of measures from a song.
• In Song mode, with [n]: For returning to the
beginning of a song.
0EQ/> (MEAS COPY)
• After pressing [SHIFT] + [SUB PARAM]:
Calls up Equalizer Sub parameters.
• In Connect and Group functions: Selects
Equalizer effect block.
• In Song mode: For moving forward in 16th-
note steps. Hold down for rapid operation.
• In Song mode, with [>>]: For moving to the end
(last recorded event) of a song.
• In Song mode (with [SHIFT]): For copying a
selected range of measures in a song.
PANEL CONTROLS AND TERMINALS
7
PANEL CONTROLS AND TERMINALS
s
4
5 6
2
7
8 9
3
!CHO/>> (ERASE)
• After pressing [SHIFT] + [SUB PARAM]:
Calls up Chorus Sub parameters.
• In Connect and Group functions: Selects
Chorus effect block.
• In Song mode: For moving to the top of the
next measure. Hold down for rapid operation.
• In Song mode, with [>>]: For moving to the end
(last recorded event) of a song.
• In Song mode (with [SHIFT]): For erasing the
recorded event(s) at a specific position in a
song.
@REV/SET-A (JUMP-A)
• After pressing [SHIFT] + [SUB PARAM]:
Calls up Reverb/Delay Sub parameters.
• In Connect and Group functions: Selects
Reverb/Delay effect block.
• In Song mode: For setting the “A” mark in a
song. Pressing [SHIFT] + [JUMP-A] jumps to
the A-marked measure.
20
14
11
10
1
12 13
15
16
21
18
17
#Foot Controller/SET-B (JUMP-B)
• In the Foot (Foot Controller) function: For
determining how the connected foot controller
is used. (See page 46.)
• In Song mode: For setting the “B” mark in a
song. Pressing [SHIFT] + [JUMP-B] jumps to
the B-marked measure.
$SHIFT
• For selecting the shifted-state functions, indicated by the names printed below the appropriate buttons. Hold down this button and simultaneously press the appropriate button. (The
arrow marks printed with the button name
indicate the direction in which the appropriate
buttons can be found.)
%– (ACCOMP)
• For decreasing a selected parameter value (as
described for the modes below). Hold down for
rapid operation.
22
19
23
24
8
PANEL CONTROLS AND TERMINALS
PANEL CONTROLS AND TERMINALS
In Song/Pattern mode: For decreasing the
value at the cursor position (for example,
Tempo or Pattern).
In Memory mode: For moving backward through
the effect programs, one by one (when the
cursor arrow is not shown in the display).
In Manual and Memory Edit mode (sub pa-
rameters, MIN VOL, and AUTO VOL): For
decreasing the value of the selected sub
parameter (when the cursor arrow is at the
bottom of the display).
• With [SHIFT] (in the Song/Pattern modes):
For turning the sound of the Backing Accompaniment on and off, while the song or pattern is
playing.
^+ (BASS)
• For increasing a selected parameter value (as
described for the modes below). Hold down for
rapid operation.
In Song/Pattern mode: For increasing the value
at the cursor position (for example, Tempo
or Pattern).
In Memory mode: For moving forward through
the effect programs, one by one (when the
cursor arrow is not shown in the display).
In Memory Edit mode (sub parameters, MIN
VOL, and AUTO VOL): For increasing the
value of the selected sub parameter (when the
cursor arrow is at the bottom of the display).
• With [SHIFT] (in the Song/Pattern modes):
For turning the sound of the Backing Bass on
and off, while the song or pattern is playing.
*SONG/PATTERN (SONG REC)
• For switching between the Song and Pattern
modes. The LED of the selected function lights.
• With [SHIFT]: For enabling realtime recording
of a song (the LED flashes to indicate record
standby). (See pages 37, 84.)
(START/STOP (A-B REPEAT )
• For starting/stopping the Backing Song or
Pattern (the LED flashes).
• With [SHIFT]: For enabling the Repeat func-
tion. (See pages 92, 93.)
)CHORD
• Similar to [SHIFT], for selecting the secondary
(lower) functions of the Chord buttons. The
arrow mark pointing right (printed with the
button name) indicates the direction in which
the appropriate buttons can be found. (For
details on this and other chord-related functions,
refer to pages 74-76.)
qChord Buttons
• For selecting the chord root note, or (after
pressing [CHORD] + [on/ROOT]) for select-
ing the bass note.
• With [CHORD]: For selecting the chord type.
wENTER (on/ROOT)
• In Song mode (step recording): For recording or
entering event data to a song.
• With [CHORD]: For enabling selection of the
bass note.
&6 CURSOR (DRUMS)
• In Song/Pattern modes: For moving the cursor
arrow in the display.
• With [SHIFT] (in Song/Pattern modes): For
turning the sound of the Backing Drums on and
off, while the song or pattern is playing.
PANEL CONTROLS AND TERMINALS
9
PANEL CONTROLS AND TERMINALS
p
LCD Display
24
s
3
1
1 INPUT PEAK indicator — for monitoring the input signal
level (lights continuously when level is too high).
2 BANK/MEMORY indicator — displays the memory bank
and program numbers. When selecting songs, this briefly
displays the song number. In the Tuner function, this displays
the string number (when an open string is played) and/or the
name of the note played (for example, 6E).
3 Sharp indicator — This flashes when a sharp note (for
example, G or C) is played in the tuner function.
4 6 — This cursor arrow points to a value in the display that can
currently be changed by using the [–]/[+] buttons.
When [MANUAL] or [MEMORY] are pressed (calling up
the Effect mode display), the arrow automatically disappears
from the display. You can use [6 CURSOR] to move the
cursor arrow back “in” the display. When [SONG/PAT-
TERN] is pressed (calling up the Backing mode display), the
cursor automatically appears in the display.
Note: Other display indications are explained later in
the relevant sections of the manual.
4
ASSIGNABLE Block Controls
eASSIGNABLE Block Type Switch
• For selecting various control functions for the
ASSIGNABLE Block Pedal Switch and the
other Pedal Switches including effect program
selection, turning individual effect blocks (or
groups) on and off, MIN/MAX Volume, Auto
Volume, Backing Control and Chord Recall.
rASSIGNABLE Block Pedal Switch
• For performing various control functions,
including effect program selection, turning
individual effect blocks (or groups) on and off,
MIN/MAX Volume, Auto Volume, Backing
Control and Chord Recall. (The arrow mark
printed with the button name at the bottom left
indicates the direction in which the appropriate
buttons can be found.)
For more information on the ASSIGNABLE
Block Pedal Switch and the other Pedal
Switches, see the section “ASSIGNABLE
BLOCK AND PEDAL SWITCH FUNCTIONS”
on pages 10-14.
ASSIGNABLE BLOCK AND PEDAL SWITCH FUNCTIONS
ABOUT THE ASSIGNABLE BLOCK LED INDICATORS
Indicates bank/
program number
can be selected.
Indicates maximum
volume.
Indicates maximum
volume.
On
(active).
On
(active).
LED status
: Lit
: Flashing
: Off
Indicates effect
(or effect group) can
be turned on/off.
Indicates minimum
volume.
Indicates mute
or fade-in condition.
Indicates Triggered
Run standby condition.
(not active).
(not active).
(not active).
(not active).
(not active).
Off
The following illustration shows how and under what conditions
the ASSIGNABLE block LEDs are lit.
Off
Off
Off
Off
MEMORY ( BANK)/ x2 ON•OFF
MIN/MAX VOLUME
AUTO VOLUME ( MUTE
BACKING CONTROL
CHORD RECALL
When [MANUAL] is pressed
When [MEMORY] is pressed
When [SONG/PATTERN] is pressed
When [SHIFT] + [SONG REC]
ressed
are
FADE IN)
Note: The MEMORY LED
above will still be lit or flashing,
even if either of these is on.
the MEMORY LED here flashes,
and no other LED in this block is lit.
only the MEMORY LED here is lit or flashing.
only the BACKING CONTROL LED is lit.
only the CHORD RECALL LED is lit.
10
PANEL CONTROLS AND TERMINALS
PANEL CONTROLS AND TERMINALS
ABOUT THE PEDAL SWITCHES
The Pedal Switches have many different functions, depending on the ASSIGNABLE block settings
(indicated by the LEDs in the ASSIGNABLE block) and the selected mode. The following panel illustrations and explanations should help you in understanding how the Pedal Switches are used.
In the Manual, Memory* and Memory Edit modes:
When switching on/off individual effect blocks (or Groups) is enabled —
* Available in Memory mode only when ASSIGNABLE Block Pedal Switch has been pressed twice
quickly (enabling effect on/off control).
Memory LED flashes.
Turns Compressor
(or selected Group)
on or off.
Turns Distortion
(or selected Group)
on or off.
Turns Equalizer
(or selected Group)
on or off.
Turns Chorus
(or selected Group)
on or off.
In the Memory mode:
When selection of effect bank number/program number is enabled —
Memory LED is lit continuously.
Selects effect program
number 1 (for the
current bank); with the
ASSIGNABLE Block
Pedal Switch, selects
bank 1 or 6.
Selects effect program
number 2 (for the
current bank); with the
ASSIGNABLE Block
Pedal Switch, selects
bank 2 or 7.
Selects effect program
number 3 (for the
current bank); with the
ASSIGNABLE Block
Pedal Switch, selects
bank 3 or 8.
Pressing twice quickly enables Pedal Switch control over on/off of individual effect or selected Group.
Selects effect program
number 4 (for the
current bank); with the
ASSIGNABLE Block
Pedal Switch, selects
bank 4 or 9.
Pressing this once and pressing another Pedal Switch selects banks 1 – 5.
Holding this and pressing another Pedal Switch selects banks 6 – 0.
(when either of those functions have been selected with the type switch).
Turns Reverb/Delay
(or selected Group)
on or off.
Selects effect program
number 5 (for the
current bank); with the
ASSIGNABLE Block
Pedal Switch, selects
bank 5 or 0.
For controlling MIN/MAX VOLUME or AUTO VOLUME
In Memory mode, pressing
once enables effect program
selection with Pedal Switches
1–5. For controlling MIN/MAX
VOLUME or AUTO VOLUME
(when either of those functions
have been selected with the
type switch).
PANEL CONTROLS AND TERMINALS
11
PANEL CONTROLS AND TERMINALS
In the Pattern mode:
With BACKING CONTROL selected —
When pattern is stopped:
Decreases pattern
number by 2
(every other odd
numbered pattern).
Increases pattern
number by 2 (every
other odd numbered
pattern).
When pattern is playing back:
Decreases pattern
number by 2
(every other odd
numbered pattern).
Increases pattern
number by 2
(every other odd
numbered pattern).
Pressing once selects CHORD RECALL; holding this and pressing one of
Pedal Switches 1 – 4 assigns current chord to the pressed Pedal Switch.
Holding this enables the Root Select function (see page 78).
Plays fill in pattern. Plays ending pattern
(then stops playback).
Pressing once selects CHORD RECALL; holding this and pressing one of
Pedal Switches 1 – 4 assigns current chord to the pressed Pedal Switch.
Holding this enables the Root Select function (see page 78).
Starts pattern playback.
Stops pattern
playback.
In the Pattern mode:
With CHORD RECALL selected —
Plays chord 1 (with
ASSIGNABLE Pedal
Switch; assigns
chord 1).
12
PANEL CONTROLS AND TERMINALS
Plays chord 2 (with
ASSIGNABLE Pedal
Switch; assigns
chord 2).
Plays chord 3 (with
ASSIGNABLE Pedal
Switch; assigns
chord 3).
Plays chord 4 (with
ASSIGNABLE Pedal
Switch; assigns
chord 4).
Pressing once selects BACKING CONTROL; holding this and pressing one
of Pedal Switches 1 – 4 assigns current chord to the pressed Pedal Switch.
Holding this enables the Root Select function (see page 78).
Starts/stops pattern
playback.
In the Song mode (playback):
With BACKING CONTROL selected —
When song is stopped:
PANEL CONTROLS AND TERMINALS
Decreases song
number by 1.
Increases song
number by 1.
When song is playing back:
Moves to previous
measure.
Moves to beginning
of current measure.
Moves to next
measure.
Moves to
next measure.
Starts song playback.
Holding this and pressing Pedal Switch 5 enables
Triggered Run function (see page 82).
Stops song playback.
In the Song Realtime Recording mode:
With CHORD RECALL selected —
Plays chord 1. Plays chord 2.
Plays chord 3. Plays chord 4.
Starts/stops song
recording.
PANEL CONTROLS AND TERMINALS
13
PANEL CONTROLS AND TERMINALS
* The following chart shows which ASSIGNABLE Block functions are available in which modes.
Also refer to the section “ASSIGNABLE BLOCK AND PEDAL SWITCH FUNCTIONS CHART”
on page 128.
ASSIGNABLE Block function Manual Memory
MEMORY: BANK/NUMBER select × ● × —— —
or
MEMORY: ON/OFF ● ● ● —— —
MIN/MAX VOLUME ● ● ● —— —
AUTO VOLUME ● ● ● —— —
BACKING CONTROL — — — ● ● ×
CHORD RECALL — — — ● × ●
● : Available
× : Not available
— : Not relevant (to this mode)
Shaded sections indicate settings that are automatically selected when the corresponding mode buttons are pressed.
Memory
Edit Recording
Pattern Song
Song Realtime
14
PANEL CONTROLS AND TERMINALS
■ REAR PANEL
PANEL CONTROLS AND TERMINALS
12 34
1POWER ON/OFF Switch
2DC IN Terminal
For connection to the supplied PA-3 AC
adaptor.
The cable clip located next to this terminal
helps to prevent accidental unplugging of the
power supply during use. Wrap the adaptor
cord firmly around the clip (as shown at right).
5 67 890!@ #
5L/L+R OUTPUT and R OUTPUT Jacks
For stereo or mono output of the instrument/
effect sound. Connect both of these to the
corresponding left and right channels of your
stereo amplification system to take full advantage of the stereo effects of the GW50. For
mono operation, connect your system to the
L/L+R jack; this provides a mono mix of the
instrument/effect sound.
6BACKING/MONO OUTPUT Jack
When only this output jack is connected, this
outputs a mono mix of the Backing Accompaniment, Bass and Drums sound, plus the input
instrument/effect sound. When the other
output(s) are also connected, only the Backing
sound is output from this jack.
3PHONES Jack
For output of both the Backing sound (mono)
and the instrument/effect sound (stereo) to a set
of stereo headphones.
4Headphone LEVEL Control
For adjusting only the headphone output; this
does not affect the output of the other output
jacks.
7BACKING LEVEL Control
For adjusting the level of the Backing Accompaniment, Bass and Drums output.
8Input LEVEL Control
For adjusting the level of the input signal.
9INPUT Jack
For connection of an instrument (guitar, bass,
etc.). (See pages 19, 20 for more information on
input/output connections.)
PANEL CONTROLS AND TERMINALS
15
PANEL CONTROLS AND TERMINALS
0LCD SETTING Switch
Two-position (Floor/Desktop) switch for setting
the display contrast for optimum
viewing.
!FOOT SW Jack
For connection of an optional footswitch
(Yamaha FC5 or FC4), for controlling certain
functions and parameters as you play. (See
pages 56, 57.)
@FOOT CONTROLLER Jack
For connection of an optional foot controller
(Yamaha FC7), for controlling certain functions
and parameters as you play. (See page 46.)
#MIDI IN/OUT Terminals
For connection of MIDI cables, when using the
GW50 with other MIDI devices. (See page
101.)
16
PANEL CONTROLS AND TERMINALS
GUIDED TOUR (TUTORIAL) —
SETTING UP, PLAYING AND
USING YOUR GW50
SETTING UP AND PLAYING YOUR
GW50 .................................................................... 19
DEMO MODE — PLAYING THE
DEMONSTRATION SONGS .............................. 22
EFFECT SECTION ............................................... 24
PLAYING WITH SOME OF THE
EFFECTS .......................................................... 24
CHANGING THE SOUND OF
THE EFFECTS ................................................. 26
CHANGING (EDITING) AN EFFECT
PROGRAM AND SAVING IT ........................ 29
USING THE NOISE GATE TO GET
A CLEAN SIGNAL .......................................... 31
BACKING SECTION ........................................... 32
PLAYING PATTERNS —
PATTERN MODE ............................................ 32
PLAYING AND RECORDING SONGS —
SONG MODE ................................................... 36
USING THE BUILT-IN TUNER ......................... 39
GUIDED TOUR (TUTORIAL)
18
SETTING UP AND PLAYING YOUR GW50
GUIDED TOUR (TUTORIAL)
SETTING UP AND PLAYING YOUR GW50
Once you’ve taken your GW50 out of the box and are ready to use it, follow the
simple instructions below in making the connections and setting it up.
1. First, make sure that the power switch on the
GW50 is off before making ANY connections.
INPUT
2. Plug the DC output cable from the supplied
PA-3 adaptor into the DC IN terminal on the
rear panel, then plug the adaptor into a convenient AC outlet.
For the sake of these instructions, we’ll
assume you’re using an electric guitar; however, most any electronic instrument can be
DC IN
Cable clip (see page 15).
used.
Note: Be sure to check whether the rated voltage is
appropriate. The provided adaptor is intended
for use in the area which you purchased the
GW50. If you intend to use it in a different area,
consult your Yamaha dealer for more information on voltage requirements.
Do not attempt to use a different AC adaptor with the GW50. The use of an incompat-
CAUTION
ible adaptor may cause irreparable damage
to the unit and pose a serious shock hazard.
3. Plug your instrument into the INPUT jack on
the rear panel.
Note: You should be careful if you are connecting a
synthesizer or electronic keyboard; generally
their output level is much higher than that of a
guitar and the input level (see step #6 below)
should be turned down accordingly.
Do not connect the BACKING/MONO output
jack with the INPUT jack in an attempt to
CAUTION
use the effects of the GW50 on the Backing
sound. Doing so results in feedback.
4. Connect the GW50 outputs to your amplifier/
speaker system, making sure that the power
on the system is first turned off.
Four example connection systems are
shown below. Use the one which most
closely resembles your own system.
Note:When using Distortion on the GW50,
use the clean channel of the guitar amp.
SETTING UP AND PLAYING YOUR GW50
19
GUIDED TOUR (TUTORIAL)
Example 1 — One Input
In this system, a guitar amp with
only one input is used. Since the
Backing sound and instrument/effect
sound are output together, adjust the
balance between the two with the
rear panel BACKING LEVEL control.
Example 2 — Two Inputs
In this system, a guitar amp with
two inputs is used. The balance
between the instrument/effect
output and the Backing sound can
be adjusted on the amp.
Example 3 — Guitar Amp(s) and Stereo System
In examples 2, 3 and 4 above, only the Backing
parts (rhythm, accompaniment, etc.) are output
from the BACKING/MONO jack and only the
instrument/effect sound is output from the L/L + R
jack or the L/L + R and R jacks.
You can also listen to the GW50 through a set
of headphones. Connect them to the PHONES jack
on the rear panel.
5. If you have them, connect a foot controller
(the optional Yamaha FC7) to the FOOT
CONTROLLER jack, and a footswitch (the
optional Yamaha FC5 or FC4) to the FOOT
SW jack.
Here, a stereo system is used
Stereo
System
Use this (the L/L + R) jack
if only one amp is available.
for only the Backing sound,
while the instrument/effect
sound goes into one or two
guitar amps.
Example 4 — Mixing Console
This set up is best used with the
Amp Simulator effect.
In this system for studio recording
applications, the Backing sound
only goes into one channel of a
mixer, while the left and right
Mixing
channels of the instrument/effect
sound go into separate mixer
channels.
20
Console
SETTING UP AND PLAYING YOUR GW50
This step isn’t necessary for using your
GW50 for the first time; however, you may
wish later to take advantage of some of the
external foot controller and footswitch functions. (See pages 46, 56 for more information.)
6. Make sure that all volume settings are at the
minimum: the guitar controls, the INPUT
LEVEL and BACKING LEVEL on the GW50
(and the PHONES LEVEL, if you’re using
headphones), and the volume on the amp.
GUIDED TOUR (TUTORIAL)
Note: To set the controls on the GW50 to minimum,
turn them all the way counterclockwise.
7. Turn on the power of all the equipment,
starting with the GW50, then the connected
amplifier.
* Adjust the LCD SETTING switch on the
rear panel to set the LCD for proper viewing. Set it to FLOOR when you are using
the GW50 on the floor, and to DESKTOP
when you have it set on a table or desk in
front of you.
8. Before turning up the volume and trying to
play, set all effects to off.
To do this, press [MANUAL] (even if the
[MANUAL] LED is lit) …
9. While playing your guitar, slowly bring up
the volume controls to suitable levels —
starting with the amp, then the guitar output.
Finally, adjust the input level control on
the rear panel. Increase the level slowly as
you play the guitar while looking at the
INPUT PEAK indicator on the panel. The
indicator should flash only slightly when you
play the guitar at its loudest.
Also, check that the guitar sound doesn’t
have distortion at its loudest.
10. Do the same with the BACKING LEVEL.
…then, if any effect block LED is lit, press
Pedal Switches 1–5 to turn all effects off (all
effect block LEDs should be off).
off
press these
First turn the backing on by pressing
[START/STOP]…
…then turn up the BACKING LEVEL to a
suitable volume.
If you’ve followed all these instructions carefully,
you should be able to hear both your guitar sound
processed by the effects, and the sound of the
backing parts.
Note: To stop the backing, press [START/STOP]
again.
SETTING UP AND PLAYING YOUR GW50
21
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