Introduction
The M-VAVE Lost Tempo is a versatile and compact guitar effects pedal designed to enhance your musical performance and practice. It integrates three core functionalities: a drum machine with 30 built-in rhythms, a looper with up to 11 minutes of recording time, and a high-precision tuner. This manual provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your Lost Tempo pedal.
Features
- Drum Machine: Features 30 diverse drum types, including common rhythms like 4/4, 3/4, and 6/8. Supports customization, editing, and saving drum patterns via a dedicated mobile application. Includes a "Single Drum Mode" where footswitches act as TAP and Drum ON/OFF for flexible control.
- Looper: Offers 4 storable loops with a total recording capacity of up to 11 minutes. Each single loop can record for up to 5 minutes and supports unlimited overdubbing. Users can undo and redo the last overdubbed audio an unlimited number of times. Audio files can be exported/imported in standard WAV format via USB.
- High-Precision Tuner: Integrated tuner for accurate instrument tuning. Displays sharp/flat signs using '#'.
- Speed Adjustment: Allows for precise drum speed adjustment using numerical values, with options to fine-tune by adding or subtracting.
- Connectivity: Standard 1/4" mono input/output, Type-C USB port for power and data transfer, and a DC9V power input.
- Control Type: Intuitive knob and button controls for easy operation.
- Built-in Effects: Includes Modulation, Overdrive, Delay, Reverb, and other multi-effects.
Specifications
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Speed Adjustment | Optional (numerical, fine-tuning) |
| Material | Zinc alloy |
| Power Input / Output | Standard 1/4" mono interface/TS |
| Sampling Rate | 44.1k/24bit |
| Total LOOP Recording Capacity | 11 minutes |
| Single LOOP Position Recording Capacity | 5 minutes |
| Power Supply 1 (Adapter) | DC9V ≥300mA (internal negative, external positive) |
| Power Supply 2 (USB) | USB 5V ≥300mA (e.g., power bank) |
| Working Current (DC 9V) | 90mA |
| Working Current (USB 5V) | 125mA |
| Input Impedance | 1M ohm |
| Output Impedance | 100 ohm |
| Item Size (L*W*H) | 100 * 64 * 18mm / 3.94 * 2.52 * 0.71in |
| Item Weight | 176g / 6.22oz |
| Hardware Interface | AUX |
| Audio Output Effects | Modulation, Overdrive, Delay, Reverb, Multi-effects |
| Control Type | Knob, Button |
| Batteries Included | No |
Setup
- Power Connection:
- Connect a DC9V power adapter (≥300mA, internal negative, external positive) to the DC9V input jack on the rear panel.
- Alternatively, for portable use, connect a USB 5V power bank (≥300mA) to the Type-C USB port.
Figure 1: Rear panel connections (IN, USB Type-C, DC9V, OUT). 
Figure 2: Example of a compatible 9V power adapter. 
Figure 3: Powering the pedal using a power bank via Type-C USB. - Audio Connections:
- Connect your instrument (e.g., guitar) to the "IN" jack using a standard 1/4" mono cable.
- Connect the "OUT" jack to your amplifier or audio interface using another standard 1/4" mono cable.
- Power On: Once all connections are secure, the pedal will power on automatically.
Operating Instructions
The M-VAVE Lost Tempo features two main footswitches (LOOPER and DRUM), two volume knobs (LOOPER VOL and DRUM VOL), a central display, and two small buttons for navigation/control.
Drum Machine Operation
- Drum Selection: Use the small left/right buttons near the central display to cycle through the 30 built-in drum patterns. The current drum number will be shown on the display.
- Drum Volume: Adjust the "DRUM VOL" knob to control the output volume of the drum machine.
- Single Drum Mode: In this mode, the two footswitches are used as a TAP button and a Drum ON/OFF switch.
Figure 5: Footswitch functions in Single DRUM mode. - Speed Adjustment:
- Click the central button (labeled "Click for tapping speed/SYNC") to enter speed adjustment mode.
- Use the left/right buttons to adjust the numerical speed value.
- Hold the central button to cancel drum synchronization.
- APP Customization: Connect the pedal to a compatible mobile application via USB to customize, edit, and save drum patterns in real-time.
Looper Operation
- Looper Volume: Adjust the "LOOPER VOL" knob to control the output volume of the recorded loops.
- LOOPER Footswitch Functions:
- Click (Press once): Initiates recording, plays the current loop, or adds an overdub layer.
- Hold: Deletes the current loop, or performs undo/redo of the last overdub.
- Click Twice (Press twice quickly): Stops playback.
Figure 6: LOOPER Footswitch detailed instructions. - Recording Startup Modes:
- Regular Recording Mode: Tap the LOOPER footswitch to begin recording.
- Auto Synchronous Recording Mode: Tap the left and right buttons simultaneously to enable this mode. The LOOPER recording will automatically start when playback begins.
Figure 7: Two Recording Startup Modes. - Audio File Management: Use the Type-C USB cable to connect the pedal to a computer. You can then export recorded audio files or import WAV files.
Tuner Operation
- Activate Tuner: Hold the central button (labeled "Hold for TUNER") to activate the high-precision tuner.
- Tuning Display: The central display will show the note name. Sharp/flat notes are indicated with a '#' symbol.
- Exit Tuner: Press any footswitch or button to exit tuner mode.
Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the pedal's surface. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Storage: Store the pedal in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and high humidity.
- Handling: Handle the pedal with care. Avoid dropping it or subjecting it to strong impacts.
- Disassembly: Do not attempt to disassemble or modify the pedal. This could void your warranty and cause damage.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No power / Pedal not turning on | Incorrect power supply, loose connection, faulty adapter/cable. | Ensure DC9V adapter meets specifications (internal negative, external positive) or USB 5V power bank is connected correctly. Check all power connections are secure. Try a different power source or cable. |
| No sound output | Incorrect audio connections, volume knobs set too low, faulty cables. | Verify instrument is connected to "IN" and amplifier/interface to "OUT". Check "LOOPER VOL" and "DRUM VOL" knobs are turned up. Test with different audio cables. |
| Looper not recording or playing back | Incorrect footswitch operation, loop memory full, corrupted data. | Review LOOPER footswitch instructions for correct record/play/stop actions. Ensure there is available recording time. Try clearing existing loops if issues persist. |
| Tuner not responding or inaccurate | Tuner not activated correctly, noisy environment, instrument not plugged in. | Hold the central button to activate tuner mode. Ensure your instrument is properly connected and producing a clear signal. Minimize background noise. |
| Cannot connect to APP or transfer files via USB | Faulty USB cable, driver issues, incompatible APP version. | Use the provided Type-C cable or a known good data cable. Ensure necessary drivers are installed on your computer. Check for the latest version of the M-VAVE APP. |
User Tips
- Experiment with Drum Styles: Don't limit yourself to just one genre. The 30 built-in drum patterns offer a wide range of styles from Pop, Rock, Blues, Metal, and Jazz. Experiment to find what fits your music best.
- Utilize the APP: For advanced customization and fine-tuning of drum patterns, connect your pedal to the M-VAVE mobile application. This allows for real-time editing and saving of personalized rhythms.
- Practice Looper Timing: Achieving seamless loops and overdubs requires practice. Start with simple phrases and gradually build complexity. The undo/redo function is your friend!
- Power Bank Convenience: The ability to power the unit via a 5V USB power bank makes it highly portable. This is great for practice sessions on the go or when a standard power outlet isn't available.
- Keep Firmware Updated: Check the M-VAVE website or app periodically for firmware updates. These can introduce new features, improve performance, or fix bugs.
Warranty & Support
The M-VAVE Lost Tempo pedal is covered by a manufacturer's warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. Please refer to the warranty card included in your package or visit the official M-VAVE website for detailed warranty terms and conditions.
For technical support, troubleshooting assistance, or warranty claims, please contact your retailer or the M-VAVE customer service directly. Contact information can typically be found on the product packaging or the official brand website.
