Zoom GFX-3 User Manual

Operation Manual

Contents

USAGE AND SAFETY PRECAUTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Controls and Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Getting Ready to Play . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Inserting the batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Getting connected . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Quick Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Selecting and Playing Patches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Panel display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Selecting a patch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Using the internal tuner (bypass/mute) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Changing the Sound of a Patch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Patch configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Basic editing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Storing a Patch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Resetting the GFX-3 to the factory default condition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

Other Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Using the expression pedal to vary an effect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Adjusting the expression pedal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

Effect Types and Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

◆

ZNR/[TOTAL] module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

◆

COMP/ISO (Compressor/Isolator) module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

◆

DRIVE module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

◆

EQ (Equalizer) module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

◆

MOD (Modulation) module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

◆

REV/DLY (Reverb/Delay) module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

GFX-3 Patch List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Reproduction of this manual, in whole or in part, by any means, is prohibited.

USAGE AND SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

In this manual, symbols are used to highlight warnings and cautions for you to read so that accidents can be prevented. The meanings of these symbols are as follows:

This symbol indicates explanations about extremely dangerous matters. If users ignore this symbol and handle the device

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the wrong way, serious injury or death could result.

This symbol indicates explanations about dangerous matters. If users ignore this symbol and handle the device the wrong

Caution

way, bodily injury and damage to the equipment could result.

Please observe the following safety tips and precautions to ensure hazard-free use of the GFX-3.

Power requirements

Since power consumption of this unit is fairly high, we

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recommend the use of an AC adapter whenever possible. When powering the unit from batteries, use only alkaline types.

[AC adapter operation]

• Be sure to use only an AC adapter which supplies 9 V DC, 300 mA and is equipped with a "center minus" plug (Zoom AD-0006). The use of an adapter other than the speciﬁed type may damage the unit and pose a safety hazard.

• Connect the AC adapter only to an AC outlet that supplies the rated voltage required by the adapter.

• When disconnecting the AC adapter from the AC outlet, always grasp the adapter itself and do not pull at the cable.

• During lightning or when not using the unit for an extended period, disconnect the AC adapter from the AC outlet.

[Battery operation]

• Use four conventional IEC R6 (size AA) batteries (alkaline).

• The GFX-3 cannot be used for recharging. Pay close attention to the labelling of the battery to make sure you choose the correct type.

• When not using the unit for an extended period, remove the batteries from the unit.

• If battery leakage has occurred, wipe the battery compartment and the battery terminals carefully to remove all remnants of battery ﬂuid.

• While using the unit, the battery compartment cover should be closed.

Environment

To prevent the risk of ﬁre, electric shock or malfunction,

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avoid using your GFX-3 in environments where it will be exposed to:

• Extreme temperatures

• Heat sources such as radiators or stoves

• High humidity or moisture

• Excessive dust or sand

• Excessive vibration or shock

Handling

•Never place objects ﬁlled with liquids, such as vases, on

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the GFX-3 since this can cause electric shock.

• Do not place naked ﬂame sources, such as lighted candles, on the GFX-3 since this can cause ﬁre.

• The GFX-3 is a precision instrument. Do not exert undue pressure on the keys and other controls. Also take

Caution

care not to drop the unit, and do not subject it to shock or excessive pressure.

•Take care that no foreign objects (coins or pins etc.) or liquids can enter the unit.

Connecting cables and input and output jacks

Caution

You should always turn off the power to the GFX-3 and all other equipment before connecting or disconnecting any cables. Also make sure to disconnect all connection cables and the power cord before moving the GFX-3.

Alterations

Never open the case of the GFX-3 or attempt to modify

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the product in any way since this can result in damage to the unit.

Volume

Do not use the GFX-3 at a loud volume for a long time

Caution

since this can cause hearing impairment.

Usage Precautions

• Electrical interference

For safety considerations, the GFX-3 has been designed to provide maximum protection against the emission of electromagnetic radiation from inside the device, and protection from external interference. However, equipment that is very susceptible to interference or that emits powerful electromagnetic waves should not be placed near the GFX-3, as the possibility of interference cannot be ruled out entirely.

With any type of digital control device, the GFX-3 included, electromagnetic interference can cause malfunctioning and can corrupt or destroy data. Care should be taken to minimize the risk of damage.

• Cleaning

Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the GFX-3. If necessary, slightly moisten the cloth. Do not use abrasive cleanser, wax, or solvents (such as paint thinner or cleaning alcohol), since these may dull the ﬁnish or damage the surface.

Please keep this manual in a convenient place for future reference.

ZOOM GFX-3

Introduction

Thank you for selecting the the following features.

●

Versatile array of effects

The Variable Architecture Modeling System (VAMS) developed by ZOOM adapts the internal conﬁguration of the unit to achieve exactly the desired sound. The GFX-3 provides 50 choices, ranging from distortion and modulation effects to spatial sound processing.

●

Full complement of distortion effects

20 distortion type effects not only recreate the characteristics of famous vintage amps but also duplicate the sound and operation of renowned compact effects and pedals. The built-in acoustic simulator makes an electric guitar sound like an acoustic instrument.

●

120 ready-to-use patches

Effect module setting combinations can be stored as patches. The GFX-3 offers 60 user patches which can be freely modiﬁed, plus 60 preset patches. Together, these 120 settings let you make great music straight away.

●

Mode-free editing for creative ﬂexibility

The selectors and keys arranged on the panel let you directly access any effect. Because there is no need for mode switching, editing can be performed quickly even during a performance. The built-in pedal makes things even simpler by letting you vary effect parameters in real time. The GFX-3 is a powerful tool for enhancing any live performance.

●

Energizer produces powerful sound

The Energizer lets you match the output of the GFX-3 to the playback system. Enjoy powerful, dynamic sound even with a small guitar amp or an audio system with ﬂat response.

●

Designed for use on stage

The metal chassis of the GFX-3 can withstand the rigors of use on stage. Stability is excellent, and the dual power supply allows the unit to be powered either from an AC adapter or from batteries. With one set of alkaline batteries, the unit will operate continuously for up to 11 hours.

ZOOM GFX-3

. This product is a sophisticated Guitar Effects Processor with

ZOOM GFX-3

Controls and Functions

Top Panel

Control section (→ p.5)

Foot switches [1] - [3]

Expression pedal

BANK [Q]/[W] keys

Rear Panel

[INPUT] jack

[OUTPUT/PHONES] jack

[POWER] switch

[DC IN] jack

ZOOM GFX-3

Control section

Controls and Functions

[STORE] key

Display

The FCC regulation warning (for U.S.A.)

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:

[GROUP/EXIT] key

[VALUE] dial

[DRIVE] selector

Module keys

[MOD] selector

[REV/DLY] selector

[PEDAL] key

Parameter keys

• 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.

ZOOM GFX-3

Getting Ready to Play

Inserting the batteries

To use the GFX-3 on battery power, insert batteries as shown below.

Turn the unit over and open the

battery compartment cover. (Push the tab to unlock and then raise the cover.)

OTE

• When not using the unit for an extended period, remove the batteries to prevent the possibility of damage by leaking battery ﬂuid.

• If the indication "bt" alternates on the display with the regular indication, the batteries are almost exhausted. Replace the batteries as soon as possible with fresh ones.

GFX-3 bottom

Battery

compartment

cover

OPEN

Tab

Insert the batteries with correct (+) (-) polarity into the battery compartment.

Battery compartment cover

Close the battery compartment cover. (Make sure that the tab is properly engaged.)

Four IEC R6 (size AA) batteries

Battery polarity alternates for each slot.

BbT

Getting connected

Make sure that the ampliﬁer and

the GFX-3 are switched off.

Turn the volume at the ampliﬁer to minimum.

To power the unit from the AC adapter, insert the small plug of the adapter cable into the [DC IN] jack on the GFX-3. Then plug the adapter into an AC outlet.

Connect the guitar to the [INPUT]

jack of the GFX-3, using a mono cable.

Connect the [OUTPUT/PHONES]

jack of the GFX-3 to the guitar amp, using the cable.

To monitor the sound with headphones, plug the phones into the [OUTPUT/PHONES] jack.

Turn power on in the following order: GFX-3 → ampliﬁer.

ZOOM GFX-3

OTE

If you turn the GFX-3 on while the ampliﬁer is already powered up, damage to the speaker may result. Always turn power to the ampliﬁer on last. When turning off the system, proceed in the opposite order.

Press the leftmost module key (ZNR/[TOTAL]) and then the lowest parameter key.

The respective key ﬂashes, and the Energizer function for matching the GFX-3 to the playback system can be used. The display shows the current setting.

Getting Ready to Play

While playing your instrument, turn the [VALUE] dial until the sound quality is as desired.

As you turn the dial, the display indication changes between oF and 1 - 30. Higher setting values result in stronger emphasis of the low range, and lower setting values in stronger emphasis of the high range. The "oF" setting means that the Energizer function is turned off.

To turn the system off, proceed in

the opposite order than when turning it on.

Module key (ZNR/[TOTAL])

Connect the guitar output jack to the [INPUT] jack on the GFX-3.

Guitar

Parameter key

Headphones

When using only one guitar amp, connect it to the [OUTPUT/PHONES] jack with a shielded instrument cable. By using a Y-cable and connecting two guitar amplifiers to the [OUTPUT/PHONES] jack, you can achieve reverb and chorus sound with a wide stereo spread.

Connect the separately available AC adapter (ZOOM AD-0006) here.

Guitar amps

Loop the cable of the AC adapter around the hook before connecting it to the [DC IN] jack. This will prevent the plug from being disconnected if the cable is accidentally pulled.

AC adapter

ZOOM GFX-3

Quick Guide

This section explains the basic operation steps, allowing you to use the unit right away.

Selecting a patch

To select a patch, press one of the foot switches [1] - [3] whose LED is not lit.

The single effects (effect modules) in the GFX-3 can be combined, and parameter settings for each effect can be changed to achieve a desired sound. Such a combination of effects with certain parameter settings is called a patch. Patches are always called onto the panel in banks of three, and the foot switches [1] - [3] are used to select the patch.

Group

Bank number

To switch to a patch in another group or bank, use the BANK [Q]/[W] keys and then the foot switches [1] - [3].

Patches are organized in user groups (U, u) which can be modified, and preset groups (A, b) which are read-only. Each group comprises ten banks numbered from 0 to 9, and each bank has three patches.

The BANK [Q]/[W] keys select groups and banks in the order U0 - U9, u0 - u9, A0 - A9, b0 - b9.

* Pressing foot switches [1] and [2] together has the

same effect as pressing the BANK [W] key, and pressing foot switches [2] and [3] together has the same effect as pressing the BANK [Q] key.

For a detailed explanation of patch switching, see page

10.

User groups Preset groups

BANK 2

BANK 1

BANK 0

PATCH 1

PATCH 2

PATCH 3

BANK 9

BANK 2

BANK 1

BANK 0

PATCH 1

PATCH 2

PATCH 3

BANK 9

BANK 2

BANK 1

BANK 0

PATCH 1

PATCH 2

PATCH 3

BANK 9

BANK 2

BANK 1

BANK 0

PATCH 1

PATCH 2

PATCH 3

BANK 2

Group U Group u Group A Group b

BANK 9

Altering an effect with the pedal

Move the expression pedal up

or down while playing your instrument.

The effect depth or volume or another parameter of the effect will change in real time as you move the expression pedal. (Which parameter changes depends on the patch.)

* For some patches, the pedal has no

effect.

For an explanation of effect control with the pedal, see page 15.

Move back

and forth

ZOOM GFX-3

+ 16 hidden pages

Zoom GFX-3 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual