1. Introducción
The Empress Effects Bass Compressor Pedal (Model CPBB) is an advanced effects unit designed for bass guitarists seeking precise dynamic control. This pedal offers a comprehensive set of features typically found in high-end studio equipment, including input and gain reduction metering, independent attack and release controls, a mix knob for parallel compression, and an external sidechain insert. Additionally, it incorporates a fully variable sidechain high-pass filter and a two-position 'tone + colour' circuit for subtle tone sculpting and harmonic enhancement. The pedal features an all-analog signal path, ensuring transparency and maintaining the instrument's original tone.
This manual provides detailed instructions for the setup, operation, and maintenance of your Empress Effects Bass Compressor Pedal.
2. Configuración
2.1 Conexión de alimentación
The Bass Compressor requires a 9V DC power supply with a minimum of 300mA. Connect the power adapter to the 9V DC input jack located on the top of the pedal. Ensure the power supply is center-negative.
Figura 1: Arriba view of the pedal, illustrating the power input, instrument input, instrument output, and sidechain connections.
2.2 Conexiones de audio
- Conecte su bajo a la APORTE jack on the top of the pedal using a standard 1/4-inch instrument cable.
- Conectar el PRODUCCIÓN jack on the top of the pedal to your amplifier o el siguiente pedal en su cadena de señal utilizando un cable de instrumento estándar de 1/4 de pulgada.
2.3 Sidechain Connection (Optional)
For advanced compression techniques, an external sidechain signal can be used. Connect a 3.5mm TRS cable to the CADENA LATERAL jack. The tip is for send, the ring for return, and the sleeve for ground.
3. Controles operativos
The Empress Effects Bass Compressor features a range of controls to precisely shape your bass tone. Familiarize yourself with each control for optimal performance.
Figure 2: Front panel of the Bass Compressor pedal, highlighting all control knobs, switches, and LED meters.
3.1 Perillas
- ENTRADA: Adjusts the input level of your instrument. This control determines the amount of signal fed into the compressor circuit, influencing the degree of compression.
- SALIDA: Controls the overall output volume of the pedal. Use this to match the compressed signal level with your bypassed signal or to boost the signal.
- ATAQUE: Sets how quickly the compressor reacts to signals exceeding the threshold. A faster attack (lower setting) will compress transients more aggressively, while a slower attack (higher setting) allows initial transients to pass through before compression engages.
- LANZAMIENTO: Determines how quickly the compressor returns to its uncompressed state after the signal falls below the threshold. A faster release (lower setting) can make the compression less noticeable, while a slower release (higher setting) can provide a smoother, more sustained sound.
- MEZCLA: Blends the uncompressed (dry) signal with the compressed (wet) signal. This allows for parallel compression, preserving the natural dynamics of your instrument while adding sustain and density.
- SC HP (Sidechain High Pass): A variable high-pass filter for the sidechain signal. This filters low frequencies from the sidechain, preventing the compressor from over-reacting to bass frequencies. The filter frequency ranges from 20Hz to 400Hz.
3.2 conmutadores
- PROPORCIÓN: A three-position toggle switch to select the compression ratio:
- 2:1: Mild compression, suitable for subtle dynamic control.
- 4:1: Moderate compression, a versatile setting for various playing styles.
- 10:1: Heavy compression, for significant dynamic reduction and sustain.
- TONE + COLOUR: A two-position toggle switch that adds subtle tone sculpting and harmonic distortion:
- OFF: No additional tone shaping or harmonic distortion.
- MID CUT: Applies a gentle mid-range cut.
- UPPER MID BOOST: Provides an upper mid-range boost.
3.3 LED Meters
- GAIN REDUCTION: Displays the amount of gain reduction (compression) being applied in decibels (dB).
- ENTRADA: Indicates the input signal level, helping to set the INPUT knob appropriately to achieve desired compression.
4. Mantenimiento
- Limpieza: Utilice un paño suave y seco para limpiar el exterior del pedal. Evite limpiadores abrasivos o disolventes.
- Almacenamiento: Guarde el pedal en un ambiente seco, alejado de temperaturas extremas y de la luz solar directa.
- Fuente de alimentación: Always use a regulated 9V DC, center-negative power supply with sufficient current (300mA minimum) to prevent damage.
- Conexiones: Asegúrese de que todos los cables estén conectados de forma segura y libres de daños.
5. Solución de problemas
| Problema | Posible causa | Solución |
|---|---|---|
| No hay sonido cuando se acciona el pedal. | Incorrect cable connection, no power, OUTPUT knob set to minimum. | Check all audio and power cables. Ensure power supply is connected and functional. Increase OUTPUT knob setting. |
| Pedal is noisy or humming. | Unsuitable power supply, ground loop, faulty cables. | Use a high-quality, isolated power supply. Check for ground loops in your setup. Replace suspect cables. |
| Compression effect is too subtle or too extreme. | INPUT, ATTACK, RELEASE, MIX, or RATIO settings are not optimized. | Adjust the INPUT knob to achieve desired gain reduction as indicated by the meter. Experiment with ATTACK, RELEASE, MIX, and RATIO settings to find the desired compression characteristics. |
Si encuentra problemas que no se tratan aquí, consulte la información de soporte en la Sección 7.
6. Especificaciones
- Modelo: CPBB
- Ruta de la señal: Todo analógico
- Requisito de energía: 9 V CC, centro negativo, 300 mA mínimo
- Interfaz de hardware: 1/4" Audio Input/Output, 3.5mm TRS Sidechain
- Relaciones de compresión: 2:1, 4:1, 10:1
- Sidechain HP Filter Range: De 20 Hz a 400 Hz
- Low End Frequency Response: Flat down to 20Hz
- Peso del artículo: 12.8 onzas (aprox. 363 gramos)
- Dimensiones del paquete: 6.25 x 3.75 x 3 pulgadas (aprox. 15.9 x 9.5 x 7.6 cm)
- Fecha de primera disponibilidad: 6 de agosto de 2021
7. Garantía y soporte
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official Empress Effects webVisite el sitio web o contacte a su distribuidor autorizado. Conserve el recibo de compra como comprobante para reclamaciones de garantía.
Recursos en línea: www.empresseffects.com
