Tgr manual - The Gig Rig

Transcription

Tgr manual - The Gig Rig
The GigRig Ltd
Unit 85 Basepoint Business Centre
Swindon
SN5 7EX
TheGigRig Pro/Midi 14TM Manual
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Introduction
Main Diagram
Quick Start
Effects Loops
Control Functions:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Post Volume
Pre Amp and Buffer
Remote Switch 1 (normally closed)
Remote Switch 2 (normally open)
Output 1 Mute
Output 2 Mute
6. Mode Switches
7. Aux. Out
8. Bypass
9. Special Features
10. The isolated output (Out 2)
11. Using the EXT input/outputs
12. Power Supply
13. F.A.Q’s (Frequently Asked Questions)
14. Safety
15. Thank you
16. Technical
17. Custom Midi
1. Introduction
I would personally like to thank you for purchasing TheGigRig Pro 14 and would also like to
congratulate you on having such great taste!
TheGigRig Pro 14 is the ultimate floor based dynamic audio switcher/guitar, effects and
amp management system. It is the product of four years of research and design, 3 further
years of product development and a lifetime of musical experience.
At the press of a footswitch you have instant access and control over:







10 true bypass effects loops (1 stereo)
2 Isolated Remote switches (controlling amp fx/channel selection)
2 selectable outputs (one output is isolated and phase reversable!)
1 programable pre effect loop class A buffer
14 easily programmable presets, each with its own bypassable volume control circuit
Tuner out for silent on-stage tuning
True Bypass select to send your guitar signal direct to your amp
The tonal advantages that TheGigRig gives you must be heard to be believed and the
amount of control it offers you is staggering. What’s more, the old problems associated with
effect pedals such as tone sucking, signal degradation, volume sags, pops and thuds and the
famous tap dance are no longer an issue. TheGigRig takes care of the lot.
Don’t forget to register your Pro-14 online at www.thegigrig.com where you’ll find loads of
great info to help you get the most out of your gear. If you ever have any questions just
drop us a line at [email protected]
It’s always great to get feedback from our customers, so be sure to keep in touch and let us
know how you get on.
Daniel Steinhardt
[email protected]
© The GigRig Ltd May 2008. All rights reserved.
2. TheGigRig Main Diagram
21
22
20
19
23
18
17
25
16
13
14
15
1
2
12
11
3
10
4
9
8
7
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
5
6
Strong metal housing
Foot switch
Control mini switches
Effects loops mini switches
Mode toggle switch bottom rail
Phase Switch
Output 2 (isolated)
Expand connection
Output 1
9V input
Output LED
Post volume level indicator
Post volume active indicator
Remote switch 1 LED
Remote switch 2 LED
Mode toggle switch top rail
Effects loop LED
Pre-set LED
Post volume control
Foot switch rail
Pre Volume knob and LED
AUX. output (on side)
Guitar input (on side)
9V out (on side)
Bypass select switches
(lid and tray construction)
(16 strong foot or hand operated switches)
(10 mini switches) Replaceable.
(6 mini switches) Replaceable.
(two modes for each rail)
(In phase when pushed in)
(Jack Socket, transformer output 1KV isolation)
(communicate with another GigRig)
(Jack Socket, primary output)
(use TheGigRig supply only)
(on when output is live)
(Brightness shows volume setting)
(on when post amp is in the signal path)
(normally closed when LED is off)
(normally open when LED is off)
(single or multi patch for top rail)
(on when effect is in the signal path)
(on when patch is selected)
(Volume control for each patch)
(Strong Chrome rail for stomping on)
(master volume. LED is on when in use)
(used for silent tuning or signal routing)
(Input from guitar or other instruments)
(Supplies protected power to your effects pedals)
(Selects true or buffered bypass, select out 2 off)
© The GigRig Ltd May 2008. All rights reserved.
3. TheGigRig Pro-14 Quick Start
Using TheGigRig couldn’t be easier.
First, connect your Pro-14 to your amplifier before applying power.
TheGigRig can supply power to your 9V effects pedals. See (24) above, 9V out.
Plug the effects you wish to use into the effects loops in the back of the Pro-14 in the order
you wish to use them. The effects send (snd) from the Pro-14’s effects loops plugs into the
input of your effect and the output of your effect plugs into the return (rtn).
Your signal path moves from right to left, from effects loops 1~10.
The order in which you place your effects makes a big difference to your sound, so
experiment and find the sounds you like. (For more info see F.A.Q’s.)
Now plug your amp(s), into the output(s) on the left-hand side of TheGigRig.
Let’s take a look at one of the 14 pre-sets:
The 10 effects loops’ switches operate the
effects loops in TheGigRig.
The 6 Control switches operate the control
functions.
These are:
1- Post effect loop volume; you can set a
different volume for each pre-set
2- Pre-effect loop buffer
3- Remote switch 1 (normally closed)
4- Remote switch 2 (normally open) use these
switches to control amp Functions such as
channel selection and reverb.
5- Out 1 mute
6- Out 2 mute
To programme, simply turn on the effects loops and control functions you want for this preset. That’s It!
When you step on the foot switch shown, effects loops 2, 6 and 10 will be ‘on’ as well as the
pre-buffer function and output 1 will be muted.
Remember, this is just a quick start guide. Because there are so many fantastic ways to use
TheGigRig Pro-14 we suggest that you take the time to read through the manual and F.A
Q.s.
You will learn how to:
Press a single footswitch and change channels in your amp, turn on and off your amps
reverb, select any combination of effects loops, any combination of outputs (either or
both!), program a buffer and output levels per preset.
If you have 2 amps each with built in effects loops, you can even choose which of your
amplifiers’ pre-amps is sent to which power amp!
All of this is with the most direct and pure signal path possible.
End Of the Quick start……… Keep reading to become an expert:
© The GigRig Ltd May 2008. All rights reserved.
TheGigRig Pro-14’s main signal path is shown in Fig 3 below:
29 is the guitar input.
9 is out 1,
7 is out 2.
25 is the stereo input .
Fig 3
Guitar in
29
31
32
28
33
34
35
36
37
50
27
57
26
39
38
40
53
54
10 Effects loops
Amp+Buffer
56
51
48
55
58
N/O switch
42
41
52
9
Auto Stereo Switch
Out 1
43
24
49
45
23
46
44
Stereo in
25
N/C Switch
Out 2
7
Buffer
Transformer
47
Post Amp
4. Effects Loops
At the heart of the Pro-14’s unique audio switching capabilities are the 10 effects loops
located on the back of unit.
Each of these effects loops has a send (snd) and a return (rtn) except for loop 10 which has 2
returns for stereo effects. The effects loops are numbered 1~10 from right to left so as to
illustrate the direction your guitar signal travels.
E.g. your guitar signal travels from the input on the right hand side of TheGigRig to the first
effects loop i.e.: effect loop number 1, then 2 and so on, until it reaches number 10.
From there, your signal travels to the outputs.
Your effects are plugged into these effects loops. The send (snd) from TheGigRig is
connected into the input of your effect and the output of the effect back to the return (rtn).
The order in which you place your effects does make a difference to your sound.
Check out the F.A.Q’s section for more details on effects order; however, back to those
effects loops and why they are the key to retaining your tone!
Normally when effects pedals are plugged into each other in series you get what is known as
tone sucking and volume loss.
© The GigRig Ltd May 2008. All rights reserved.
Each pedal acts as a filter even when the pedals aren’t on; the more pedals you have in your
chain the more loss you get.
So, less of your signal is getting through, this means less tone.
TheGigRig solves this problem as your guitar signal will only travels through the effects loops
that are selected for each particular sound you use.
You can now connect in all your other less frequently used pedals, they will no longer causes
problems to your much-loved tone, if they are not selected, it’s as if they don’t exist.
So how does it do that?
Let’s take a closer look at one of TheGigRig Pro14’s 14 pre-sets.
Each of the Pro-14’s effects loops is controlled by
a very special relay. A high quality switch that,
when activated, will send your signal through the
effects loop or will bypass the loop completely.
These relays are inturn controlled by the mini
switches on each pre-sets marked ‘Effects Loops’.
With the pre-set above effects loops 2, 6 and 10
have been selected.
When you step on this pre-set, your guitar signal
will travel from the guitar input through effects loops 2, 6 and 10 ONLY.
Everything else is completeley bypassed.
The difference this makes to your tone is amazing. You get the shortest, purest signal path
possible.
You can use the effects loops in many other ways.
Look at the F.A.Q’s section to see how to use the effects loops in TheGigRig with the effect
loop in your amp.
If you use more than one guitar such as a spare for when you break a string or an electro
acoustic, you can plug these into the effects loops and control them with TheGigRig.
For example, an acoustic guitar could be plugged into the RETURN of effects loop 1 and
switch in or out using the GigRig. You can also use the isolated output 2 to send your
acoustic directly into the P.A. without introducing hum.
You can then programme a pre-set for the songs in which you use an acoustic. Therefore,
when you step on the foot switch, the GigRig will disconnect your main guitar (plugged into
‘guitar in’) and mute the output to your amplifier sending your acoustic straight to the front
of house system. (the GigRig will protect you and your equipment from over 1000V if a fault
in the stage system should occure)
You can make TheGigRig as simple or as complicated as you like.
That’s the whole point. It’s entirley up to you.
© The GigRig Ltd May 2008. All rights reserved.
5. Control Functions
TheGigRig Pro-14’s unique control functions make
it both powerful and flexible.
Each of the 14 pre-sets has a row of six mini
switches, which operate the control functions.
These are:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Post Effect Loop Volume
Pre Effect Loop Buffer
Remote Switch 1 (normally closed)
Remote Switch 2 (normally open)
Output 1 Mute
Output 2 Mute
Let’s go through them one at a time:
1. Post Volume.
This is a class ‘A’ accurately controlled amplifier on the output of TheGigRig.
It was designed not to mess with your tone and is of the highest audio quality; no feedback
path used.
The circuit for this post effects loop amplifier is on its very own relay so you must turn on
(switch 1) for the Post Vol knob to have any effect. (When we say true bypass, we mean true
bypass).
This volume control can also cut your output by 2/3rds or boost it by X3.
Use the small volume knob next to the control switches to control the level. This is perfect
for boosting solo sounds or compensating for the drop of output in some old effects pedals.
Furthermore, as it is ‘post’ effects loop it won’t mess with the sound of your effects.
2. Pre Amp and Buffer.
The Pre Amp and buffer, controlled by switch 2, is a Low noise X3 amp and class ‘A’ buffer.
If selected, it is the first function your guitar signal will go through.
Primarily this is used to drive the impedance of your guitar signal into your effects. For
some pedals, true bypass is the way to go, the dynamics between the pedals and your guitar
need to work together.
Vintage fuzz’s and Treble Boosters can sound awful if they receive
Buffered inputs; however, a buffer can improve the tone of some effects, not to mention
driving the long cable between the Pro-14 and the amplifier. Try the buffer on each preset
and see which you prefer.
The pre buffer can also be used as a master volume input level, from a gain of X3 down to
nothing. If your guitar has a very high output, you can use this volume control to reduce the
level, or boost the level to drive your pedals harder. So, now with every pre-set, you have
the choice between buffered or true bypass, attenuation or Gain.
3. & 4. Remote switches 1 & 2.
If you use an amplifier with built in effects such as reverb or vibrato or an amp with two
channels, then these remote switches are priceless. Your amp can now be controlled by the
Pro-14.
© The GigRig Ltd May 2008. All rights reserved.
Instead of plugging an extra footswitch into the back of your amp, simply plug the
footswitch out from your amp into the remote switches on the Pro-14. (The remote
switches are fully isolated and will switch tip to ring if stereo plugs are used.)
Normally closed and Normally open refers to the polarity of the switch in default position
(off).
E.g. If you would like to use the remote switch to control the reverb in your amp, simply
plug a lead from the footswitch out of your amp and into either of the remote switches.
One of them will mean your reverb defaults to ‘on’, and the other will default to off.
With a channel-changing amp, you can simply plug the footswitch from your amp to the
remote switch in TheGigRig Pro-14.
5. & 6. Output 1 & 2 Mute.
On the far left hand side of the Pro-14 you will see 2 outputs.
Not surprisingly, these are called output 1 and output 2.
TheGigRig enables you to choose any combination of these outputs. Simply mute the output
that you don’t want your signal to go to by turning on the ‘output mute’ for that particular
output. Control switch 5 mutes OUT1 and control switch 6 mutes OUT2.
Use a clean/dirty amp set up or two complimentary sounding amps, you can even send a
line directly to the desk as well as your amp and then switch between them.
Using combinations of the effects loops and the control functions the possibilities are
virtually endless.
6. Mode Switches
Both rails on TheGigRig Pro 14 have their own mode switches.
The mode switch governs how each particular rail will function.
Mode 1 is Single mode.
When both rails are in single mode, only one pre-set can be activated at any one time.
Selecting another pre-set will cancel the previous pre-set.
If you want to programme your 14 pre-sets and use these combinations only, the single
mode (mode 1) will enable you to do just this. (You can; however, select two patches at
once by pressing buttons on the top and bottom banks simultaneously.)
Mode 2 is Multi mode
This is where it gets interesting. In multi mode, you can add your pre-sets together. When
you select a pre-set, TheGigRig will add that combination to the pre-set already selected.
To deselect, simply press the footswitch again.
As you can select a different mode for each rail, you can have the bottom rail (pre-sets 1~7)
in single mode and the top rail (pre-sets 8~14) in multi mode.
© The GigRig Ltd May 2008. All rights reserved.
Using the Pro-14 in this way, you can have 7 main or core sounds on the bottom rail and add
in effects and control features to these core sounds using the top rail pre-sets. What is so
great about setting up your pro-14 in this way is that you can add to any of your core tones
but when you need to go to your core tone again it will clear any of the added on presets.
There are a few things to remember when using Multi mode:
 When two pre-sets using Post Vol are selected, the highest level takes precedence.
 Be careful not to add a pre-set using Out 1 mute to a pre-set using Out 2 mute as
this will result in no output at all.
 Press bypass to clear all pre-sets at once.
7. Aux/Tuner Out
At the far right hand side of the top rail on TheGigRig Pro-14 you will see a footswitch
labelled ‘Aux‘.
This footswitch controls an auxiliary output located on the right
hand side of the Pro-14 next to the guitar input jack.
When selected the guitar signal is routed directly from the guitar
input to the ‘Aux out’. All other outputs are disconnected.
The most common use for this feature is silent on-stage tuning.
When not selected your tuner input is automatically muted.
Instead of your guitar signal routing through your tuner all the
time and perhaps depleting your tone, you can send your signal
through the Aux at the press of one switch.
Although this is the most common way to use this feature, it is
certainly not the only way. The Aux output is an independent
output that you may use in any way you wish.
Note, If the Aux out is used to drive a third amplifier, you may need an external ground
isolation device to reduce hum. See the GigRig humdinger for a safe solution to Amp
grounding and hum reduction.
8. Bypass
On the bottom rail at the far right hand side, you will see a footswitch labelled ‘Bypass’.
With all the switches in the down position selecting Bypass
will do exactly that; the relays inside The Pro-14 will drop
into default mode and your guitar signal will be routed
directly to the outputs.
This completely bypasses every effects loop, pre and post
amplifiers and will send your guitar directly to your amp(s).
© The GigRig Ltd May 2008. All rights reserved.
The blue Bypass LED indicates that the bypass has been selected.
Tone Tip: True bypass, when used with long cables, can affect your tone. Most pickups will
tune down slightly reducing the top end and enhancing the mid range.
This is why we have included four control switch functions on the bypass.

OUT 2 MUTE
With this function enabled OUT 2 will mute when you hit bypass.

PRE BUFFER BOOST
This will activate our very special pre effects loop buffer/booster. This will drive all the
capacitance in your long cable runs when you hit bypass, so now there’s no need to use a
patch just for a bypass tone with a buffer, its right here on the bypass switch.
True Bypass, buffered or gain, it’s completely up to you.

SW1
When this switch is on the GigRig Foot switch controller SW1 will be activated. For example
this can be used to set a channel on your amplifier for your bypass sound etc. (Normally
closed floating switch)
 SW2
When this switch is on, the GigRig Foot switch controller SW2 will be activated. (Normally
open floating switch)
Note. Holding down the bypass foot switch for five seconds or more will switch on the pop
gate circuit.
9. Special Functions
A range of special functions for the adventurous guitarist.
Set the mode switch to 1 and hold down a foot switch for over 3 seconds to access the
following special functions:
Foot Switch 1: Light show (and self-test)
Hold down for 3 seconds and the bottom bank will run through the wizzy light show (and
self test). The output will be muted until the show is completed.
The pop gate feature will be disabled on the bottom bank at the end of the show. Try
holding down switches 1 and 8 together for 3 seconds.
Foot Switch 2: Software version bottom bank
Hold down for 3 seconds to read the software version number. The version number will
flash on and off.
Foot Switch 3: Very Slow clean Tremolo effect (2.3Hz)
Switch control switch 1 (post vol) to the ‘on’ position to access this effect. Hold down foot
switch 3 for three seconds or more to enable the tremolo. Now use the post volume control
for the tremolo intensity (depth).
Tip; switch in the pre buffer switch (control switch 2) to reduce to the desired volume level
using the pre volume control.
You can now combine this tremolo effect with your effects loops on this Pre-set.
You can also mix in other effects by setting the upper bank to mode 2. Try it!
Foot Switch 4: medium speed clean Tremolo effect (3.2Hz)
This works the same as above, but with a faster tremolo sound.
© The GigRig Ltd May 2008. All rights reserved.
Foot Switch 5: Fast speed clean Tremolo effect (5.4Hz)
This works the same as above, but with a still faster tremolo sound.
Foot Switch 6: Bank on
Hold down for 3 seconds to switch all pre-sets on the bottom bank to ‘on’.
Tip. This is a useful test mode. When selected check to see that only the green output LEDs
that have effects plugged in are ‘on’. Do the same using switch 13 for the top bank; you can
do both foot switches together if you like.
Foot Switch 7: bank off
Hold down for 3 seconds to clear the bottom bank.
Foot Switch 8: Light show (and self-test)
Hold down for 3 seconds and the top bank will run through the light show. The output will
be muted until the show is completed.
The pop gate feature will be disabled on the top bank at the end of the show.
Note, you can see the output lights flash when you press a foot switch if Pop-Gate is on.
Try holding down switches 1 and 8 together for 3 seconds, just for fun.
Foot Switch 9: Software version top bank
Hold down for 3 seconds to read the software version number. The version number will
remain displayed; they will not flash.
Foot Switch 10: Very Slow clean Tremolo effect (2.3Hz)
Switch control switch 1 (post vol) to the ‘on’ position to access this effect. Hold down foot
switch 10 for three seconds or more to enable the tremolo. Now use the post volume
control for the tremolo intensity (depth).
Tip; switch in the pre buffer switch (control switch 2) to reduce to the desired volume level
using the pre buffer volume control.
You can now combine this tremolo effect with your effects loops on this Pre-set.
You can also mix in other effects by setting the upper bank to mode 2. Try it!
You can even mix tremolo effects between the top and bottom rail. Use Aux to exit this
mode.
Foot Switch 11: Mixing Tremolo (3.2 Hz)
Hold down for 3 seconds to select the same Tremolo effect as with switch 10. But, with a
slightly faster tremolo
Foot Switch 12: Mixing Tremolo (5.4Hz)
Hold down for 3 seconds to select the same Tremolo effect as with switch 11. But, with a
faster tremolo.
Foot Switch 13: bank on
Hold down for 3 seconds to switch all patches/presets on the top bank to on.
Tip. This is a useful test mode. When selected check to see that only the green output LEDs
that have effects plugged in are on. Do the same using switch 6 for the bottom bank; you
can do both together.
© The GigRig Ltd May 2008. All rights reserved.
Foot Switch 14: Bank off
Hold down for 3 seconds to clear the top bank.
Tip, this feature can be very useful, as it will not clear mode 2 patches set on the bottom
bank unlike the bypass switch. If both banks are set to mode 1 holding down this switch will
select Standby mode. (All patches/presets and bypass light off with the guitar connected to
the amp)
Bypass Foot Switch
Hold down for 3 seconds or above to enable the pop gate feature on the bottom bank.
TheGigRig will now gate out pops and clicks from your effects pedal when they are selected.
To disable the pop gate feature, on this Rail, hold down foot switch 1 for 3 seconds or more.
Note. you can see the output lights flash when you press a foot switch if Pop-Gate is on.
Foot Switch Aux.
Hold down for 3 seconds or above to enable the pop gate feature on the top bank.
The GigRig will now mute out pops and clicks from old high gain your effects pedal when
they are selected and de selected.
To re enable the pop gate feature, on this bank, hold down foot switch 8 for 3 seconds.
Note. you can see the output lights flash when you press a foot switch if Pop-Gate is on.
Tips and Tricks:
Foot Switch Resting Mode.
Some Guitarists like to rest there foot on the switches whilst playing. To prevent the GigRig
from entering Special Function Mode, whilst resting a foot on a switch, hold down Foot
switch 1 or 8 whilst powering on the GigRig. The special functions will be defeated on the
chosen rail. You can hold down both 1 and 8 together at power up to defeat all special
functions.
Powering the GigRig in the normal manner will return the GigRig to normal functionality
with Special functions activated.
Mixer Mode (bypass off)
Access mixing mode, by holding down the bypass switch, when powering up your GigRig,
then switch the top mode switch to mode 2.
Mixing mode changes the function of your GigRig. The top bank will now work
independently to the bottom bank. You can use the bottom bank as a seven effects GigRig
and the top bank, in mode 2, as an effects mixer. The bypass switch will no longer switch off
the top bank; so, now when you add echo, it will stay added. The bypass switch will only
clear your patches on the bottom bank. Try setting your favourite sounds on the bottom
bank and then set the top bank so that each patch switches in one single effect. This is
fantastic for experimentation.
Powering the GigRig in the normal manner will return normal functionality.
Mixer Mode (bypass on)
You can use a shorted audio jack in any EXT input to save holding down bypass each time
you power on, This, sets the GigRig as above; however, the Bypass will now clears all the
Presets and connect your guitar to your amps.
© The GigRig Ltd May 2008. All rights reserved.
10. The Isolated Output (Out 2)
Isolated output… Output 2
Let’s cut through the jargon, like earth loops and earth impedance and get right down to the
source of Hum.
If you have one Guitar into one effects pedal into one amp, you won’t get hum. Although
your effects power supply is connected to the mains, it won’t be connected to the mains
earth. Therefore, your precious guitar signal has just one path to ground; Through the
screen of your leads into your amp and through to the mains ground. No problem… All will
be well.
The problems occur when you have more than one path to ground for your signal. Using
two amplifiers has always been an issue, because they both MUST be connected to mains
ground.
The GigRig Pro 14 has a very special output for your second amplifier, or any other earthed
equipment.
Only use output 2 when you have already used output 1. Now, Output 2 will not only
prevent hum it will also give you, and your equipment, protection from over 1000V from
front of house or other equipment mains faults.
Phase Switch.
Again, cutting through the techno jargon, with the same sound going to two amplifiers of
different models, the amplifier speaker cones could be both moving forward at the same
time or one may be moving forward whilst the other is moving back. If this occurs then,
when the sounds mix in the room, they can cancels at some frequencies and positions giving
a reduced and unpleasant tone.
On the Pro-14, you will find a small button next to the isolated output (Out 2). When this
button is pressed ‘in’, Out 2 will stay in phase with Out 1 and when the button is out, yes
you guessed it, Out 2 is then out of phase with Out 1.
When you have set the phase correctly, you can then swap your two amplifiers over,
without causing a phasing problem.
The GigRig is a ‘True Phase’ switcher meaning that the signal that comes out the end is the
same phase as the signal that goes into it regardless of if you choose the Pre-Buffer or Post
Volume features.
11. Using the EXT input/outputs.
This output allows you to connect a number of GigRig products together so they can talk to
each other, remotely switch TheGigRig into Bypass, or separate the top and bottom banks.
(See the GigRig Loopy2 product to use this EXP input to expand your pedal board further).
BANK SEPARATION.
This feature allows you to separate your 14 channel GigRig into effectively two seven
channel GigRigs. For example you may want to use the top bank in mode 1 to select which
© The GigRig Ltd May 2008. All rights reserved.
guitar you would like to use and the bottom bank, also in mode 1, to select the effects pedal
combination for your sound.
You can separate the two banks, top rail and bottom rail of the GigRig by simply inserting a
shorted 3mm jack plug (connect both wires together) into any EXT input. The bypass and
mode functions will still work as normal.
You can use a standard stereo jack plug if a mono plug is not to hand. (Connect all three
wires together).
You can also use Bank Separation mode with two or more GigRigs connected together.
Two GigRigs, with a connection between EXT on each GigRig will work as one big 28 channel
GigRig.
Two GigRigs used together with no connection between EXT sockets will obviously give you
two 14 channel GigRigs.
Two GigRigs with a connection between EXT on each GigRig and a shorted plug in any free
EXT socket will give you effectively four seven channel GigRigs.
The EXT input can also be used to send TheGigRig into bypass standby mode. A short 5V
pulse, 5mS or longer, will send TheGigRig into low power Standby mode. The output
indicators will be left on and all other lights, including bypass, will be switched off; your
guitar will be routed directly to both outputs.
Note, both EXT sockets, left side and right side, on TheGigRig are identical.
12. Power Supply
Before powering TheGigRig, connect the output(s) to your amplifier(s) first. This prevents the buzz
and thud sounds.
It is not necessary to power down the TheGigRig when installing or removing new effects
pedals; simply select bypass for silent installation.
TheGigRig can supply 9V at up to 1.5A for your effects pedals. This supply is smoothed and
electronically fused (1.8A). Note it may take a minute for this fuse to recover after overload.
A short circuit on this output will cause the main power supply to shut down. The green light
on the supply will flash until the short circuit has been removed.
USING OTHER 9V SUPPLIES.
This is not recommended. Other 9V supplies may appear to work; however, it is very likely
that problems will occur when all loops are active. TheGigRig is fused internally at 6A.
EMERGENCY USE:
If TheGigRig 9v Generator power supply is not available, you can, in an emergency power
your effects pedals separately, TheGigRig can then be powered temporarily using a 9V
regulated power supply with an output capability of 1A or more. (Temporary only).
13. FAQ’S
We are constantly updating the FAQ’s on the website. Make sure you check it out.
Here are just a few
© The GigRig Ltd May 2008. All rights reserved.
Q. What’s the best order to put my effects in?
A. The order that you place your effects makes a dramatic difference to your guitar sound.
Do you phase your distortion or do you distort your phaser?
Of course, there are no set rules and with TheGigRig, you can experiment as much as you
like. I’ve found the following to be a good place to start.
1st
2nd
3rd
4th
5th
6th
Envelope filters, auto wahs and wah pedals.
Compression
Overdrive, distortion and fuzz. (Use in order of the least amount of gain to the most)
Modulation effects (phase, chorus, flange, tremolo)
Delay effects (shorter delays, followed by longer delays)
Reverb
Q. How do I use TheGigRig Pro-14 with the effects loop in my amp?
The effects loop in your guitar amplifier gives you an insertion point between your pre-amp
and your power amp for you to connect your effects.
With TheGigRig, you can insert the pre-amp section of your amplifier into any point in the
signal chain. We advise the use of a HumDinger in this set-up to make sure there are no
possible earth loops. Here’s how we do it.
e.g. Say I want my compression and overdrive pedals going into the front of the amp and
my modulation and delay effects in my amps effects loop, I would use the effect loop that is
after my overdrive and before my modulation effects. The send from the Pro-14 is plugged
into the input of the HumDinger, and the isolated out of the HumDinger is plugged into the
front of your amp. The effects send from the amplifier is plugged into the return of the Pro14. What you’ve done is placed your pre-amp where you want it in your signal path. The
output of the Pro-14 then goes to the return on your amplifier.
If you have 2 amps, each with their own effects loops you can actually choose which preamp you send to which power amp!
Q. How do I justify buying TheGigRig Pro-14 to my partner?
This is a very important question; every guitarist with a partner will know what I’m talking
about.
The tonal advantages that TheGigRig Pro-14 gives you must be heard to be believed and the
amount of control it offers you is staggering; however, here is why I truly believe that
TheGigRig makes good commercial sense.
Inevitably, as musicians grow in experience and ability, their taste and tonal preferences
change.
TheGigRig makes sense because it changes with you!
If you want a different overdrive sound, You simply plug in the effects pedal that gives you
the sound that you like. You don’t need to change your entire rig; you can pick and choose
the sounds that inspire you and let TheGigRig Pro-14 manage the lot.
© The GigRig Ltd May 2008. All rights reserved.
There are so many great effects pedals and similar devices on the market, you are sure to
find the sounds that inspire you, from the subtle to the ridiculous and everything in
between.
Not only have effects pedals been inspiring musicians for over half a century, but they
generally hold their value a lot better than their digital technology based counterparts.
Q. I have spilled my beer onto one of the micro-switches; it is now difficult to use or
faulty.
Answer:
Don’t panic, you don’t have to give up beer! Clean the switch with conventional switch
cleaner. (they can be pulled out and replaced)
Q. I would like TheGigRig Pro-14 to work differently, to suit my personal needs:
Answer:
Well you just can’t please some people can you! Still TheGigRig is software upgradable, so
please ring our customer services or send an email and we will evaluate you requirements.
[email protected]
Q. How do I clean a GigRig.
Use a clean paint brush to remove dust then use a little spray furniture pollish then the
paint brush again. Finish with a soft cloth.
14. Important Safety information
TheGigRig pro-14 is a low voltage device and so it is completely electrically safe; however,
this is not true for some older guitar amplifiers.
Do not use old two pin mains plug amplifiers.
Your amplifiers must have an earth connection! If you intend to use a vintage amplifier with
a two-pin mains plug DON’T. Take your amp to be serviced by a qualified technician. In most
cases a new 3-wire mains lead can be fitted for just a few pennies. Products now exist to
safely solve hum problems associated with your amps. See our website.
Amplifiers fitted with a ground switch.
Under no circumstances should the GigRig be used with this type of amplifier.
Some vintage amplifiers where fitted with a Ground switch to break earth loops and reduce
hum. This switch is now commonly known as the DEATH switch. If your amplifier has such a
switch, GET IT SERVICED NOW!
A very good site for further information about old amplifiers is:
http://www.hsga.org/learningarchive/ampsafety.html
Do not use your Pro-14 in wet conditions. If it accidentally gets wet, it should be left in a
warm dry place for 24 hours before it is used or stored.
© The GigRig Ltd May 2008. All rights reserved.
15. Thanks.
Many thanks for purchasing TheGigRig Pro-14; we take our commitment to you and your
sound very seriously. Please keep up to date with all the latest information on our web site,
www.thegigrig.com
You may be surprised how inventive other users can be with TheGigRig and you may find
sharing your ideas a great deal of fun.
These instructions may change without notice. Consult our web site for updates.
16. Technical
TheGigRig Pro-14 Technical Specification:
Opening the unit:
Remove the Pre amp volume control before opening the unit!
(The Warranty on a GigRig is not affected by opening this unit. The GigRig is designed for easy
repaired and maintenance by any competent technician).
Bypass mode:
True bypass; direct connection from guitar to amplifier. (AC coupled)
Effects bypass:
True bypass, direct AC connection between send and return. (AC coupled)
(Signal ground reference and Effects quietening built in)
Pop Gate. Settling time = 12 seconds from power up. 40mS mute period.
Maximum gain = approximately X3
Maximum output level using internal amplifier = 2V peak to peak.
No limit when in true bypass mode.
Green = output Amplifier
© The GigRig Ltd May 2008. All rights reserved.
Pre Buffer: Class A
Gain
>X1
Attenuation
- 60 dB
Bandwidth
40 Hz to 50 kHz
Flatness
Flat to 30 kHz (studio quality)
Transient response
Dam fast op-amp
Distortion
Signal level dependent 2%
Input impedance of pre-amp
500k Ohm
AC Output impedance of input amplifier 500 Ohm
Post effects Amplifier: Class A
Gain of post effects amplifiers
X 3 = +9.5 dB
Attenuation of Post effects amps
Divide by 5 = –14dB
Bandwidth
40 Hz to 100 kHz
Flatness…
Flat to 50 KHz (studio quality)
Input impedance of post effects amplifier
400k Ohm
Distortion
Signal level dependent average 2%
AC output impedance of post effects
500 Ohm
Isolated output Flat to 30KHz. Automatically compensates for guitar cable capacitance
Internal Microprocessors = Two RISC microprocessors clocked at 4MHz.
Socketed and upgradable. See custom Shop.
Sw1
Sw2
normally open circuit (fully isolated) Tip to ring
normally short circuit (fully isolated) Tip to ring
Stereo The Stereo rtn is routed automatically to Out 2 when the effects loop 10 is selected and a
jack plug is inserted into the stereo rtn.
Power:
External power supply minimum 2A regulated. Thermal and short circuit protected.
Current consumption (no effects powered). All outputs on, all LEDs on = approximately 900mA.
Current consumption (Maximum number of external effects powered). All outputs on, all LEDs on =
approximately 2.7A.
Maximum current for external effects = 1.8A (electronically protected, 6V at 1.8A, It can take 1 min
for fuse to self-repair after overload).
System fuse for Internal protection = 6A.
Physical size: The unit, without the power supply, will fit in a container with inside dimensions of
62cm X 21cm X 8cm.
Physical size: The unit, with the power supply and plug, will fit in a container with inside dimensions
of 62cm X 27cm X 8cm.
Mini-switches: All socketed and can be replaced
All values are approximations. No responsibility will be taken for errors or omissions in the above
specification.
This specification is subject to change without notice. Consult our Web site for amendments.
© The GigRig Ltd May 2008. All rights reserved.
17. Custom Midi 14
New Specification:
Every time this GigRig is powered up, the bottom rail will reset and send a midi signal on
Ch1 each time you press a foot switch... You need to do nothing! No setting up is required.
For the full midi option, both top and bottom rails will send midi on Ch1.
With the top mode switch in mode 1, holding down foot switch 13 until the light blinks (5
seconds) will change the midi outputs on the top rail to Ch2.
Holding down foot switch 8 or re-powering the GigRig will reset the top rail back to Ch1
Midi.
Similarly on the bottom rail; with the mode switch in position 1, holding down foot switch 6
until
the light blinks will cause the bottom rail to send its midi signals on Ch2.
Holding down foot switch 1 or re-powering the GigRig will reset the bottom rail back to Ch1.
You can have the top rail on CH1 and the bottom Rail on CH2 or vice-versa.
Technical:
The Midi codes generated are single shot program change codes from 0-7. Bottom Rail and
8-15 from the top rail. They are sent as the foot switch is pressed in both mode 1 and mode
2 settings.
All three Midi bytes are sent to the output as follows (1.Status Byte is fixed 11000000 for
Ch1 11000001 for ch2) (2. Data Program Change, example = 00000011) (3. Data Byte 2 is
fixed 10000000).
Now, if you have the full midi custom for top and bottom rails, one slight change from
standard is that when the top rail is in mode 2 the bottom rail patches won’t clear the top
rail patches.
Note. Pressing Aux then Bypass will clear all the mode 2 top rail patches at once. Or, press
any top rail foot switch again to cancel each patch. Otherwise, in mode 1, all is the same.
Warranty:
TheGigRig is covered by a standard warranty of one year from the purchase date; however,
The GigRig Ltd will abide by the warranty period for electrical and electronic equipment
stated within your country.
(We support our customers, not just our products.)
Disposal: TheGigRig contains no batteries or Lead. Return
the unit to TheGigRig Ltd for disposal or use standard
Disposal for electrical equipment recommended in your country.
Do not dispose of electrical equipment in household waste!
Legal Stuff:
In the unlikely event of a failure. TheGigRig ltd. will not be held responsible or compensate
for any loss of earnings or any other losses incurred by failure of this equipment. The use of
this equipment is at the owners own risk.
Small Print:
© The GigRig Ltd May 2008. All rights reserved.
TheGigRig is protected by copyright, moral rights, patent and design registration.
Patent Pen 0321552.2… Patent Granted GB2405987
USA Patent Pending US10/937,997
Design Registration # 3014412
‘GigRig’ is a stylised trademark. No 2343300
Any individual or company found copying the functionality, look or feel, circuits, circuit
function or software functions for commercial gain will be liable for legal action. Licences
may be granted to non-competing companies.
The GigRig and it’s Power supply are RoHs compliant.
Tested and compliant to EN 60950 safety standard.
The power supply is approved to all USA and European
Regulations including UL. See separate instructions supplied
with the power supply
www.thegigrig.com
© The GigRig Ltd May 2008. All rights reserved.