Zoom Corporation 505 Operation Manual

Thank you for selecting the ZOOM 505 (hereafter simply called the "505").
Please take the time to read this manual carefully so as to get the most out of

your 505 and to ensure optimum performance and reliability. Retain this manual
for future reference.

ZOOM CORPORATION

NOAH Bldg., 2-10-2, Miyanishi-cho, Fuchu-shi, Tokyo 183, Japan
PHONE: [phone] FAX: [phone]

Printed in Japan 505-5000

• 24 individual built-in effects provide maximum flexibility.
Up to 9 effects can be used simultaneously in any combination.

• Memory capacity for up to 24 user-programmable patches.

• Integrated auto-chromatic guitar tuner for simple and precise tuning
anywhere.

• Optional foot controller FP01 can be used for pedal wah or pedal pitch, and
volume control is also possible.

• Optional foot switch FS01 can be used for bank switching, resulting in
enhanced playability.

• Dual power supply principle allows the unit to be powered from an alkaline
battery or an AC adapter.

• New DSP (digital signal processor) ZFx-2 developed by Zoom produces
high-quality effects from an amazingly compact package.

USAGE AND 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:

Please observe the following safety tips and precautions to ensure
hazard-free use of the 505.

• Since power consumption of this unit is fairly high, we
recommend the use of an AC adapter whenever possible.
When powering the unit from a battery, use only an alkaline
type.

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.

• If the unit is not to be used for a long time, disconnect the AC
adapter from the outlet.

Battery operation

• Use only a 9 V (alkaline) battery (6LR61).

• The 505 cannot be used for recharging.
Pay close attention to the labelling of the battery to make sure
you choose the correct type.

• If the 505 is not to be used for an extended period of time,
remove the battery 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.

Avoid using your 505 in environments where it will be
exposed to:

• Extreme temperature

• High humidity or moisture

• Excessive dust or sand

• Excessive vibration or shock

• The 505 is a precision instrument. Except for the foot
switches, do not push other parts with your feet or subject
them to strong force.

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

• Be sure to turn the power to all equipment off before making
connections.

• Before moving the unit, turn the power off, and disconnect all
cables and the AC adapter.

Never open the case of the 505 or attempt to modify the
product in any way since this can result in damage to the unit.

Usage precautions

For safety considerations, the 505 has been designed to provide
maximum protection against the emission of electromagnetic
radiation from inside the device, and from external
interference.However, equipment that is very susceptible to
interference or that emits powerful electromagnetic waves
should not be placed near the 505, as the possibility of
interference cannot be ruled out entirely.

Whatever the type of digital control device, the 505 included,
electromagnetic damage can cause malfunctioning, and can
corrupt or destroy data. Since this is an ever-present danger,
thorough care should be taken to minimize the risk of damage.

Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the 505. 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.

Connecting cables and input and output jacks

You should always turn off the power to the 505 and all other
equipment before connecting or disconnecting any cables. Also
make sure to disconnect all cables and the AC adapter before
moving the 505.

Major Features

Safety Precautions

Warning

This symbol indicates explanations about extremely
dangerous matters. If users ignore this symbol and
handle the device the wrong way, serious injury or
death could result.

Caution

This symbol indicates explanations about dangerous
matters. If users ignore this symbol and handle the
device the wrong way, bodily injury and damage to the
equipment could result.

Warning

About power

Caution

Environment

Caution

Handling

Caution

Alterations

Electrical interference

Cleaning

1

2

Operation Manual

• PATCH

A combination of several effects, each with individual parameter settings is called a "patch". The
505 comes with 24 preset patches which can be changed (edited) by the user.

• BANK

The 505 calls up patches in sets of four, called a "bank".

The 505 has memory capacity for 24 patches. At the factory, these are programmed with
recommended settings. The user can freely change the contents of any patch, and it is also
possible to restore the factory settings.

What Are Banks and Patches? PATCH LIST

Effect Connections

Controls and Functions

As shown in the illustration below, the 505 can be thought to contain seven "effect modules" which are
internally connected. In most effect modules, only one effect may be active at any given time, but the COMP

and MOD modules can use two effects simultaneously. Therefore the 505 can act like a total of nine single
effect devices.

INPUT

OUTPUT

Delay/Reverb

DLY/REV

Modulation

MOD

Equalizer

EQ

Amp Simulator

AMP

ZOOM Noise Reduction

ZNR

Distortion

DIST

Compressor

COMP

ZNR/AMP BLOCK

Compressor:

Keeps the input within a given
level range.

Limiter:

Restricts the input level.

Auto Wah:

Shifts the emphasis frequency
automatically, according to the
input signal dynamics. Can also
be used as Compressor+Auto

Wah.

Pedal Wah:

Shifts the emphasis frequency
manually, according to the FP01
control signal from CONTROL
IN. Can also be used as

Compressor+Pedal Wah.

Acoustic:

Produces a sound similar to an
electric acoustic guitar.

Rhythm:

Gives slight distortion when
strings are picked strongly.

OD:

Extended overdrive distortion
similar to driving a tube amp.

DIST:

Hard distortion comparable to
driving a three-stack amp.

Blues:

Overdrive sound with a firm
core.

Fuzz:

Choppy sound with fat bass.

Lead:

Bright and smooth distortion.

Metal:

Shredding type sound.

ZNR:

Noise reduction with natural
sounding cutoff.

AMP:

Makes the output sound as if
coming from a guitar amplifier.

4band EQ:

Allows boost and cut in four
ranges: presence, high,
midrange, and low.

Phase Shift:

Applies a phase-shifted
component to the direct sound.
The amount of shift varies
periodically, resulting in a
breathing effect.

Chorus:

Simple 2-phase chorus suitable
for achieving a clean sound.

Flanger:

Adds a very short delay to the
direct sound and varies the delay
time periodically, resulting in a
peculiar sound character. Can
also be used as Flanger+Chorus.

Doubling:

Overlays the direct sound with a
short delay component, creating
the impression of several players
and making the sound more full­bodied. Can also be used as

Doubling+Chorus.

Step:

Randomly changing filter creates
an auto-arpeggio effect. Can also
be used as Step+Chorus.

Pitch Shift:

Can be used as dual-voice pitch
shifter or Pitch+Chorus.

Delay:

Conventional digital delay with a
delay time of up to 370ms.

Hall Reverb:

Simulates the acoustics of a hall.

Room Reverb:

Simulates the acoustics of a
room.

OUTPUT jack

The output signal of the 505 appears at this jack.
You can connect either a single guitar amplifier, using a monaural
shielded cable, or two guitar amplifiers, using a Y-type stereo shielded
cable, or a pair of stereo headphones. If the volume level is low when
using headphones, increase the patch level or master level, or use
headphones with low impedance (32 ohms or less).

CONTROL IN jack

When the optional expression pedal FP01 is connected to this jack, it
can serve as volume pedal or be used for pedal wah and pedal pitch.
When the optional foot switch FS01 is connected, it can serve for
bank UP switching.

TUNER indicator

In the Bypass (Mute)/Tuner mode, this indicator shows that the tuner is
active, and it serves as a gauge for fine tuning your instrument.

• Battery empty warning

When the unit is powered from the battery, this indicator begins to flash
when the battery is exhausted.

STORE key

Serves to initiate and execute the store function for patches.

• Direct Load function

When the key is held down for at least 1 second in the Play mode, the
Direct Load function is turned on or off.

EDIT key

This key serves to toggle between the Play mode (where effects are used
for playing the instrument) and Edit mode (where the user can freely
change patch settings). The Edit mode is also used to select effect
parameters.
When the key is pressed while a Delay/Reverb effect parameter is
selected, the unit switches back to Play mode.

• Bank Hold function

When the key is held down for at least 1 second in Play mode, the Bank
Hold function is turned on or off.

INPUT jack

Serves for connection of the guitar.
When the unit is powered from the battery, this jack also functions as
on/off switch. Plugging a shielded cable into the jack turns the 505 on.
When not using the unit, the cable should be disconnected to prevent
battery drain.

DC IN jack

Serves for connection of an AC adapter (Zoom AD-0006) which
delivers 9 V DC, 300 mA with a "center minus" plug configuration.
When the AC adapter is connected to this jack, the 505 is turned on.

Display

Shows information required to operate the 505.

• Play mode:

Shows the currently selected bank and patch.

• Edit mode:

Shows the value of the parameter currently being edited.

• Bypass (Mute)/Tuner mode:

Shows the pitch of the input signal.

Parameter cursor LEDs

• Play mode:

The currently used effect module lights up.

• Edit mode:

The currently used effect module lights up. When selected for editing,
the indicator for the effect module flashes.

• Bypass (Mute)/Tuner mode:

Indicators function as tuning meter.

VALUE + / - keys

• Play mode:

The keys serve for bank switching.

• Edit mode:

The keys serve for changing the effect parameter.

• Bypass (Mute)/Tuner mode:

The keys serve for setting the tuner reference pitch (calibration).

Patch UP / DOWN pedals

• Play mode:

The pedals serve for patch switching. Pressing both pedals
simultaneously activates the Bypass (Mute)/Tuner mode.

• Edit mode:

The pedals serve for selecting effect parameters. Pressing both pedals
simultaneously turns the currently selected effect module on or off.

• Bypass (Mute)/Tuner mode:

Pressing a pedal cancels the Bypass (Mute)/Tuner mode.

STORE

EDIT

TUNER CAL .

EDIT VAL .

BANK

+

–

OUTPUT INPUT

COMP

DIST

GAIN

ZNR
AMP

EQ

MOD

LEVEL

/REV

DLY

1-30

COMP

WAH

ACOUSTIC

RHYTHM

OD DIST BLUES

METAL

FUZZ LEAD

PEDALWAH

LIMIT

1-30

1-9
EQ(1-50)

CHORUS

STEP

DOUBLE

FLANGE

PHASE

A1-A9

UPDOWN

BYPASS

DELAY HALL ROOM

PITCH

BANK HOLD

Top Panel

Rear Panel

ZOOM CORPORATION

MADE IN JAPAN

INPUT DC 9V CONTROL IN OUTPUT

300mA

[PHONES]

5

3 4

6

BANK A

PATCH 1
PATCH 2
PATCH 3
PATCH 4

BANK b

PATCH 1
PATCH 2
PATCH 3
PATCH 4

BANK C

PATCH 1
PATCH 2
PATCH 3
PATCH 4

BANK d

PATCH 1
PATCH 2
PATCH 3
PATCH 4

BANK E

PATCH 1
PATCH 2
PATCH 3
PATCH 4

BANK F

PATCH 1
PATCH 2
PATCH 3
PATCH 4

PATCH PATCH NAME COMMENT

BANK

A

b

C

d

E

F

Super Dist Solo

1

Clean Delay

2

Psycho Harmony

3

Metal

4

Mellow Drive

1

Wah Dist

2

Multi Phaser

3

Steel China

4

Rock Drive

1

Bright Chorus

2

Power Distortion

3

Choir Wave

4

Jet Drive

1

Funky Phase

2

Head Long

3

City Night

4

PWM Synth Lead

1

JAZZY

2

Octave Pitch

3

Step Mode

4

Wah Fuzz

1

Blues Lead

2

Blues Rhythm

3

Acoustic

4

Tight and smooth distortion
Clean sound with chorus and feedback delay
Distortion sound for avant-garde harmony solos
High-gain metal sound allows 2-octave bend-down with pedal
Straight overdrive sound
Distortion sound with auto wah and chorus
Multi Phaser
Synthesizer-like SFX sound
Straight rock sound
Chorus sound with a distinct edge
Distortion with doubling as hidden flavor
Clean sound with transparent chorus and flanger
Wild jet sound with flanger
Clean sound with wah and effect shift for rhythm play
Zoom's famous step-type effect
Clean chorus sound
Synthesizer sound with full effect palette
Warm jazz sound with octave overlays
Wild and heavy lead sound with up/down octave unison
SF type sound combining step effect with chorus
Noisy wah/fuzz sound
Lead sound for fusion and blues
Cutting sound with distortion as hidden flavor
Electric acoustic guitar simulation sound

The 24 patches can be selected easily by
pressing the patch pedals. The right patch
pedal switches to the next patch and the
left patch pedal switches to the previous
patch.
In the initial condition, the 505 is set up
so that the patch pedals select patches
continuously, but you can also set up the
unit so that patches are switched only
within a certain bank [see the section
"Patch Switching (Application: Bank
Hold")].
Bank switching is performed with the
VALUE + / - keys.

If for example the currently selected patch
is patch 2 of bank A, and you want to
switch to patch 3 of bank C, you would
need to press the UP pedal nine times.
Instead, you can press the VALUE + key
twice and then the UP pedal once.

If the optional FS01 is connected to the
CONTROL IN jack on the rear panel, the
foot switch can be used as a bank UP
pedal. This allows full foot control, which
is highly convenient during a
performance.

In the Bypass mode, the effects of
the 505 are temporarily turned off,
so that the original sound of the
instrument only is heard. In this
mode, the auto-chromatic tuning
function is also active. It is also
possible to activate muting, to
prevent the tuning sound from
being sent to the output.

Bypass and mute condition

Pressing both patch pedals simultaneously activates the Bypass or Mute mode.

• For bypass mode:

Press and immediately release the patch pedals.

• For mute mode: Press patch pedals for at least 1 second.

To cancel the bypass or mute condition, simply press one of the patch pedals. The unit then
reverts to the previously selected patch.

Tuning function

When the 505 is in the Bypass or Mute mode, the tuning function is activated automatically. Pick
an open string to be tuned. The closest note is shown on the display.

When the tuning function is active, the
parameter cursor LEDs serve as tuning
meter, designed to enhance tuning
precision when making fine adjustments.

Selecting Patches

Using the Bypass (Mute)/Tuner Mode

PATCH

DOWN

PATCH

UP

Patch switching

24 patches are available

Bank switching

Banks A, b, C, d, E, F are available

BANK UP

BANK DOWN

BANK F

PATCH 1
PATCH 2
PATCH 3
PATCH 4

BANK E

PATCH 1
PATCH 2
PATCH 3
PATCH 4

BANK d

PATCH 1
PATCH 2
PATCH 3
PATCH 4

BANK C

PATCH 1
PATCH 2
PATCH 3
PATCH 4

BANK b

PATCH 1
PATCH 2
PATCH 3
PATCH 4

BANK A

PATCH 1
PATCH 2
PATCH 3
PATCH 4

Bypass (Mute)/Tuner mode ON

Pressing both patch pedals simultaneously turns
the Bypass (Mute)/Tuner mode on. To turn the
mode off, simply press one of the two patch pedals.

Calibration

Select reference pitch for auto-chromatic
guitar tuner (calibration)

Press both
pedals together

* Reference pitch (A) can be adjusted in
the range from 435 to 445 Hz. This is
shown as "35" to "45" on the display.
The normal setting is 440 Hz (40).

Pitch is too high Correctly tuned Pitch is too low

7

8

Bank/patch switching
when Bank Hold is off

Currently selected

patch is indicated

Press Release immediately Tuner mode

Currently selected

patch is indicated

Press for 1 s or more Release Mute mode

Input signal

standby condition

Do = C

Do# = C#

Regular tuning

Re = D

Re# = D#

4th string

Regular tuning

Mi = E

Fa = F

Fa# = F#

Regular tuning

So = G

6th string
1st string

3rd string

So# = G#

Regular tuning

La = A

La# = A#

Regular tuning

Si = B

5th string

2nd string

In the factory default condition,
the patch pedal switches all
patches, regardless of the bank
divisions. This kind of patch
switching is called the Bank Hold
off condition.

The Bank Hold function limits
switching to the four patches
within a bank. When the function
is activated, the patch pedals
switch only between the patches
in the current bank. To activate the
function, keep the EDIT key
depressed for at least 1 second in
the Play mode. The BANK HOLD
indicator on the display lights up.
To turn the function off again,
perform the same step (press the
EDIT key for at least 1 second).
The BANK HOLD indicator on
the display goes out.

Bank switching can be performed
using the VALUE + / - keys or the
optional foot switch FS01
connected to the CONTROL IN jack on the rear panel.

In the default condition, the 505 is
set up in such a way that pressing a
patch pedal immediately switches
the patch and alters the output
sound. This is called Direct Load
ON. This switching principle is
most convenient when the desired
patches are adjacent or close to
each other. However, when
wanting to switch to a patch that is
further away, it may be desirable
not to activate the sound of the
other patches in between.

When this is desired, turn the
Direct Load function off as
follows. When Direct Load has
been turned off, switching banks
and patches has no effect until the
user confirms the selection.

For example, when going from
patch 1 to patch 4 with Direct Load active, patches 2
and 3 will briefly be heard when the patch UP pedal
is pressed three times. When Direct Load is off,
pressing the patch UP pedal will change the number
on the display (the number flashes), but until the
user confirms the choice, the sound remains that of
patch 1.

To turn Direct Load on or off, keep the STORE key
depressed for at least 1 second.
To confirm a choice after selecting a patch with
Direct Load off, press both patch pedals
simultaneously.

Patch Switching (Application: Bank Hold ON)

Patch Switching (Application: Direct Load OFF)

9

10

Bank/patch switching

when Bank Hold is on

Confirm

Example: switching from patch 1 to patch 4

Patch switching completed

Bank Hold ON

Keeping the EDIT key depressed for at least 1 second activates Bank
Hold. To cancel Bank Hold, press the EDIT key again for 1 second.

Bank switching

Banks A, b, C, d, E, F
can be switched.

PATCH

DOWN

PATCH

UP

Patch switching

4 patches within bank can be switched.

Bank switching (Bank UP pedal)

Using optional foot switch FS01,
banks A, b, C, d, E, F can be switched by foot.

ZOOM

FS01

BANK C

BANK b

PATCH 1
PATCH 2
PATCH 3
PATCH 4

BANK A

PATCH 1
PATCH 2
PATCH 3
PATCH 4

ZOOM

FS01

BANK d

PATCH 1
PATCH 2
PATCH 3
PATCH 4

BANK DOWN

BANK F

PATCH 1
PATCH 2
PATCH 3
PATCH 4

BANK UP

PATCH

DOWN

PATCH 1
PATCH 2
PATCH 3
PATCH 4

PATCH

UP

Patch switching

Patches can be switched.

BANK E

PATCH 1
PATCH 2
PATCH 3
PATCH 4

DIRECT LOAD OFF

Keeping STORE key depressed for 1 second
turns Direct Load off.
The same procedure serves to turn it on.

BANK HOLD ON

BANK HOLD OFF

Bank switching

Banks A, b, C, d, E, F
can be switched.

Confirming a patch

When display indication flashes, pressing
both patch pedals together confirms the
patch and switches the output sound.

Compressor

The input signal from the
guitar is compressed to
achieve a uniform volume
level.

Higher values result in
stronger compression.

Limiter

Limits the input signal with
faster response than the
compressor effect. Serves to
prevent overload of other
modules.

Higher values result in more
effective limiting.

Auto Wah

With this effect, emphasized
frequencies are shifted
automatically depending on
the dynamics of the input
signal.

Higher values result in a
more pronounced auto wah
effect.

Compressor and auto wah
are used together. Higher
values result in a more
pronounced auto wah effect.
Compressor intensity is
fixed.

Pedal Wah

With this effect, emphasized
frequencies are shifted using
an optional expression pedal
FP01 connected to the
CONTROL IN jack.

Higher values result in a
higher pedal wah center
frequency.

Compressor and pedal wah
are used together. Higher
values result in a higher
pedal wah center frequency.
Compressor intensity is
fixed.

Distortion Type

A total of eight effect types are
available, including seven
different distortion types and
one effect which produces a
sound similar to an electric
acoustic guitar.

Gives a sound similar to an
electric acoustic guitar.

Gives slight distortion when
strings are picked strongly.

Extended overdrive
distortion similar to driving a
tube amp.

Hard distortion similar to
driving a three-stack amp.

Overdrive sound with a firm
core.

Choppy sound with fat bass.

Bright and smooth
distortion.

Shredding type sound.

Distortion Gain

Sets the distortion intensity
and the depth of the Acoustic
effect.

Higher values result in
stronger distortion or greater
depth.

ZNR module

Determines the settings for
Zoom Noise Reduction.

AMP module

Simulates the sonic
characteristics of a guitar
amplifier.

Both modules together form
the ZNR/AMP block.

Higher values result in more
effective noise reduction in
the no-signal condition.
Choose the highest setting
that will remove noise
without making the
instrument sound unnatural
at the trailing edge (when the
sound decays into silence).

A1: Amp simulator only is
active.
A2 - A9: ZNR is also used.
Higher values result in more
effective noise reduction.

4band EQ

Allows boost and cut in the
presence, high, midrange, and
low range, with 50 available
settings.

Lower values result in a
stronger high-range cut and
low-range boost.

Lower values result in a
lower boosted frequency.

Lower values result in a
stronger presence-range
boost.

Yields flat frequency
response.

Higher values result in a
stronger high-range boost.

Higher values result in a
higher boosted frequency.

Higher values result in a
stronger presence-range
and low-range boost, giving
a firm, solid sound.

Phase Shift

Applies a phase-shifted
component to the direct sound.
The amount of shift varies
periodically, giving a
breathing effect.

Higher values result in a
stronger effect.

.

Chorus

Simple 2-phase chorus which
adds a component with
periodically changing pitch to
the direct sound. Suitable for
enhancing body while
maintaining a clean sound.

Higher values result in a
stronger effect.

Flanger

Adds a very short delay to the
direct sound and varies the
delay time periodically,
resulting in a peculiar sound
character.
Can also be used together with
the chorus effect.

Higher values result in faster
flanger modulation.

Flanger and chorus are used
together. Higher values
result in faster flanger
modulation. Chorus is fixed.

Doubling

Overlays the direct sound with
a short delay component,
creating the impression of
several players and making the
sound more full-bodied.
Can also be used together with
the chorus effect.

Higher values result in longer
delay time.

Doubling and chorus are
used together. Higher values
result in longer doubling
delay time. Chorus is fixed.

Step

Randomly changing filter
creates an auto-arpeggio
effect. Can also be used
together with the chorus
effect.

Higher values result in faster
speed.

Step and chorus are used
together. Higher values
result in faster step speed.
Chorus is fixed.

Pitch Shift

Can be used as dual-voice
pitch shifter or as a pitch shift
+ chorus effect.

1-octave down pitch shift
sound is mixed in.
5-step down harmony is
mixed in.
5-step down harmony and
chorus are mixed in.
4-step up harmony is
mixed in.
4-step up harmony and
chorus are mixed in.
1-octave up pitch shift
sound is mixed in.
Slight up/down shift sound
is mixed in, for low­fluctuation chorus effect
4-step up/down harmony
is mixed in, for dual-voice
pitch shift
1-octave up/down pitch
shift sound is mixed in, for
dual-voice pitch shift.
Using FP01 connected to
CONTROL IN jack, pitch
can be controlled to two

octaves down.
Using FP01 connected to
CONTROL IN jack,
harmony can be controlled
to one octave up.

Delay

Conventional digital delay
with a delay time of up to 370
ms. By monitoring this effect
in stereo, you can achieve a
ping-pong delay.

Higher values result in longer
delay time.
Mix and feedback are also
optimized.

Hall Reverb

Simulates the acoustics of a
hall.

Higher values result in longer
reverb time.
Mix setting is also
optimized.

Room Reverb

Simulates the acoustics of a
room.

Higher values result in longer
reverb time.
Mix setting is also
optimized.

Patch Level

Allows setting the level of
individual patches.
This setting is stored for each
patch like the effect
parameters.

Higher values result in
higher level.

(1 – 30)

Setting range:

(r1 – r9)

Setting range:

Setting range:

(H1 – H9)

Setting range:

(d1 – d9)

Setting range:

(S7 – S9)

(S1 – S6)

Setting range:

(d7 – d9)

(d1 – d6)

Setting range:

(F7 – F9)

(F1 – F6)

Setting range:

(C1 – C9)

Setting range:

(P1 – P9)

Setting range:

(41 – 50)

(31 – 40)

(26 – 30)

(25)

(21 – 24)

(11 – 20)

Setting range:

(1 – 10)

Setting range:

(A1 – A9)

(1 – 9)

Setting range:

(1 – 30)

Setting range:

(Metal)

(Lead)

(Fuzz)

(Blues)

(Distortion)

(Overdrive)

(Rhythm)

(Acoustic)

(P5 – P9)

(P1 – P4)

Setting range:

(A5 – A9)

(A1 – A4)

Setting range:

(L1 – L9)

Setting range:

(C1 – C9)

Setting range:

The 505 comes with 24 predefined patches that have been programmed at the factory. However,
the 505 offers many more possibilities for combining effects in innovative ways. To discover these
possibilities, we recommend that you try out the editing function, which lets you create your own
patches. The mode in which patches can be edited is called the Edit mode.

To switch from normal Play mode to Edit mode, briefly press the EDIT key. Do not keep the EDIT
key depressed, because if the key is held for 1 second, the Bank Hold mode will be activated.

Immediately after
switching from the Play
mode to the Edit mode,
the parameter cursor
flashes at the highest
position (COMP module),
regardless of which patch
was selected. The COMP
module setting of the
current patch is shown on
the display.

While Edit mode is active, each push of the EDIT key causes the parameter cursor to move one position down.
The flashing position shows which module is selected for editing. The relation between parameter cursor LEDs and modules is
as shown below.

1st parameter cursor LED: COMP module setting
2nd parameter cursor LED: DIST module distortion type setting
3rd parameter cursor LED: DIST module distortion gain setting
4th parameter cursor LED: ZNR and AMP block settings
5th parameter cursor LEDs: EQ module setting
6th parameter cursor LED: MOD module setting
7th parameter cursor LED: DLY/REV module setting
8th parameter cursor LED: PATCH level setting

Use VALUE + / - keys to change parameters.
For an explanation of the various parameters, please refer to the section "Effect Parameters".
When the EDIT key is pressed while the 8th parameter cursor LED flashes, the Edit mode is canceled and the unit returns to
the Play mode.

Editing Patches

Effect Parameters

n

12

11

COMP module DIST module ZNR/AMP block EQ module MOD module DLY/REV module PATCH Level

Each effect module in the 505

can be considered as a single
compact effect device. Adjusting parameters
then is equivalent to selecting the type of
effect device or turning the knobs on an
effect device. What is called a patch
corresponds to a collection of effect devices
connected in various ways and set to ON or
OFF.

As you will know if you have used several
individual effect devices in a performance
before, not all devices will be switched on
all the time. Depending on the mood of the
song and other factors, devices will be
switched on and off in different
combinations. The same applies to the 505.
The on/off timing and combination of effect
modules are important aspects in creating a
certain sound.

Except for the distortion gain (3rd

parameter cursor position) and patch level
setting (lowest parameter cursor setting),
the flashing parameter cursor indicates that
the corresponding effect module can be
turned on or off.
The ZNR and AMP modules are turned on
and off together. When wishing to disable
them individually, you must do this by
setting the parameters accordingly.

Effect modules can be switched on and off in
three ways.

1. Using the VALUE + / - keys

When using the VALUE + key to increase
the parameter value, the setting following
the maximum value is the "effect off" setting.
Similarly, when using the VALUE - key to
decrease the parameter value, the setting
before the minimum value is the "effect off"
setting. When the VALUE + key is pressed
once in the "effect off" condition, the effect

is turned on and the minimum value is set.
When the VALUE - key is pressed once in
the "effect off" condition, the effect is turned
on and the maximum value is set.

2. Using a shortcut

Pressing both VALUE + / - keys together for
an effect module functions as a shortcut.
Repeating the shortcut procedure several
times turns the effect off. Performing the
shortcut when the effect is off turns it on and
sets the minimum parameter value.

3. Using the patch pedals

Pressing both patch pedals together for an
effect module turns the effect off. Pressing
both patch pedals together when the effect is
off turns it on and restores the previously
selected parameter value.

Effect off indication

Effect module on/off switching

2

EFFECT OFF=

HINT

As described in "Editing

Patches", parameters to be
edited are selected by repeatedly pressing
the EDIT key, but you can also use the patch

pedals for this purpose.
Pressing the patch UP pedal (right pedal)
moves the parameter cursor (the selected
parameter) up.

Pressing the patch DOWN pedal (left pedal)
moves the parameter cursor (the selected
parameter) down.

Selecting parameters to change

1

HINT

Parameter setting shortcut

Normally, parameter values are set by tapping the

VALUE + or VALUE - key once for each increment.
To allow quick operation in effect modules which contain
more than one effect, you can use the shortcut function which
is activated by pressing both VALUE keys simultaneously. For
example, if you are currently at the "Delay" parameter of the
DLY/REV module and the current setting is "d5", you would
need to press the VALUE + key 18 times to set the "Room"
effect to "r5". However, you can achieve the same effect by
activating the shortcut twice and then pressing the VALUE +
key 4 times.

Volume control with FP01

When the optional expression pedal FP01 is

connected to the CONTROL IN jack, it can also be
used for adjusting the output volume of the 505. However, if
the COMP module parameter is set to a range which activates
pedal wah or if the MOD module pitch shift parameter is set
to pedal pitch (Pu or Pd), this setting has priority and the
pedal controls the effect.
In other cases, the pedal controls the volume between the EQ
module and the MOD module. As opposed to a volume pedal
connected after the 505, the level can be adjusted without
affecting the sonic impression of reverb and delay effects.

Master level adjustment

The 505 also lets you set the overall output level,

separately from individual patch levels.
The master level can be adjusted in Play mode, as follows.
Keep both VALUE keys depressed for at least 1 second. The
current master level is then shown on the display for 1 second.
While the level is displayed, you can use the VALUE + / - keys
to change it. The setting range is 0 - 50. At "40", the level is
identical to the individual patch level.
The master level setting is not stored by the unit. After the
power has been turned off, the master level must be set again.

5

4

3

(1) While still in Play mode, select
the patch you wish to edit.

(2) Press the EDIT key to
activate the Edit mode.

(1) Use the EDIT key to
select the parameter
you wish to change.

(2) Use the VALUE + / - keys
to adjust the parameter.

(3) When the 8th parameter cursor LED
is flashing, press the EDIT key to retur
to the Play mode.

HINT

HINT

HINT

If you have edited (altered) a patch and turn the 505 off without storing the patch, the patch will
revert to its old setting. To store an edited patch, use the following simple procedure.

Storing can be carried out in Play mode and Edit mode. After you have edited the patch, press

the STORE key. If the unit is currently in Play mode, release the key before 1 second has
elapsed, otherwise the Direct Load function will be activated.

The display starts to flash. This condition is called the store standby condition. If you wish,

you can abandon the store procedure at this point by pressing the EDIT key. If you press the
STORE key once more, the contents of the patch are updated.

You can also change the patch number before storing, so that the edited patch will be stored in

a different number.

In this case, the original patch that was used as a starting point for editing will not be changed.

If the tuning indicator flashes while the unit is being powered from the battery, the battery is
exhausted and should be replaced as described below.
Since the 505 has fairly high rated power consumption, use only a 6LR61 9 V (alkaline) battery.
Using another kind of battery will result in shorter operation.

The 505 comes with 24 predefined patches that have been programmed at the factory. Also after
you have edited and stored your own patches, you can return to the factory default settings at any
time. This process is called "recalling". Returning all 24 patches to the original contents and
resetting the Bank Hold and Direct Load functions is called "all initialize".

The recall mode is separate from the Play mode and Edit mode. You cannot switch directly to
recall mode from these modes. The recall mode can only be activated by turning the unit on in a
special way, as described below.

1. Turn the unit off by disconnecting the AC adapter or the guitar input cable.

2. Keep the STORE key depressed and turn the unit on.

3. The indication "AL" flashes on the display.

4. To perform "all initialize", press the STORE key once more in this condition. The
flashing rate increases and the initialization procedure is carried out. When it is
completed, the unit automatically enters the Play mode.

5. When wishing to recall only a particular patch, select the patch number in step 3,
using the same procedure as for normal patch selection.

6. When the desired patch has been selected, press the STORE key. The flashing rate
increases and the contents of the selected patch are recalled.

7. Recalling of individual patches can be carried out continuously. When you wish to
terminate the process, press the EDIT key. The unit then returns to the Play
mode. Turning the unit off also terminates the recall condition.

Effects Maximum number of simultaneous effects: 9

24 effect types: Compressor, Limiter, Auto Wah, Pedal Wah, Acoustic,
Rhythm, Overdrive, Distortion, Blues, Fuzz, Lead, Metal, 4Band Equalizer,
Phase, Chorus, Flanger, Doubling, Step, Pitch Shift, Delay, Hall, Room ,
Amp Simulator, ZNR

Effect modules Maximum number of simultaneous modules: 7 (5 modules + 1 block)
Banks and patches 6 banks x 4 patches = 24 patches (edit + store possible)
Analog/digital conversion 18 bit, 128 times oversampling
Digital/analog conversion 16 bit, linear
Sampling frequency 31.25 kHz
Input Guitar input (standard monaural phone jack)

Rated input level: -20 dBm
Input impedance: 470 kilohms

Output Combined line/headphone output (standard stereo phone jack)

Max. output level: +6 dBm
Output load impedance: 10 kilohms or more

Control input For optional FP01 or FS01
Display indicator 2-digit, 7-segment LED

tuning indicator, parameter cursor indicator

Power requirements Optional AC adapter: 9 V DC, 300 mA (Zoom AD-0006)

Battery: 6LR61 9 V (alkaline) battery x 1
Battery life: approx. 4 h continuous operation

Dimensions 147 (W) x 157 (H) x 48 (D) mm
Weight 480 g

* 0 dBm = 0.775 Vrms
* Design and specifications subject to change without notice.

Storing Patches

Replacing the Battery

Returning Patches to Factory Settings

Specifications

13

14

15

16

1. Turn the 505 upside down and
open the cover of the battery
compartment. (Push the catch to
unlock the cover, then lift it up.)

2. Remove the battery from the
compartment and disconnect the
battery cable. (Grasp the
terminal strip and do not pull at
the cable.)

3. Connect the battery cable to the
new battery, taking care to
observe correct polarity (+/-).
Then insert the battery into the
battery compartment.

4. Close the battery compartment
cover, taking care not to pinch the
cable. (Make sure that the cover
is properly locked.)

(2) Press the STORE key.
(Unit enters store standby mode.)

(1) Edit the patch as desired.

Cover

(3) Select the patch for storing.

6LR61 9 V (alkaline) battery

Cable

(4) Press the STORE key once more.
(Store process is completed.)