MXR Micro Amp Guitar Pedal Instruction Manual

Introduction

The MXR Micro Amp is a versatile clean boost pedal designed to enhance your guitar signal. It adds a preset amount of gain with a single control, making it ideal for boosting your signal for lead work, adjusting between guitars with unmatched output (e.g., humbuckers to single-coils), or providing a permanent boost in a long effects chain to prevent signal drop-off.

Setup

Powering the Pedal

The MXR Micro Amp can be powered by a Dunlop ECB003 AC adapter (not included) or a single 9-volt battery. To install a 9-volt battery, unscrew the four screws on the bottom plate of the pedal and connect the battery clip.

Image: Bottom view of the MXR Micro Amp pedal, highlighting the screws for battery compartment access.

Connecting to Your Setup

Connect your guitar to the 'INPUT' jack on the right side of the pedal and your amplifier or the next pedal in your signal chain to the 'OUTPUT' jack on the left side, using standard 1/4-inch audio cables.

Image: Front view of the MXR Micro Amp pedal, showing the 'GAIN' knob, footswitch, and the 'INPUT' and 'OUTPUT' jacks.

Image: Side view of the MXR Micro Amp pedal, clearly showing the input jack for connecting your guitar.

Image: Opposite side view of the MXR Micro Amp pedal, displaying the output jack and the 9-volt DC power connector.

Operating Instructions

Gain Control

The single 'GAIN' knob on the MXR Micro Amp controls the amount of boost applied to your signal. Rotate the knob clockwise to increase the gain, providing a louder and potentially more saturated signal. Rotate counter-clockwise to decrease the gain. The pedal can provide up to 26 decibels of clean boost.

Image: Top view of the MXR Micro Amp pedal, with a clear focus on the 'GAIN' control knob.

True Bypass Footswitch

The footswitch engages or disengages the Micro Amp effect. When disengaged, the pedal utilizes true bypass circuitry, ensuring your guitar's signal passes through unaffected, preserving your original tone.

Usage Scenarios

• Signal Matching: Use the Micro Amp at the front of your pedalboard to match the output levels of different guitars, ensuring consistent signal strength to your amplifier.
• Overdrive Boost: Place the Micro Amp before an overdrive pedal to increase the amount of gain hitting the overdrive, resulting in more saturation and sustain.
• Clean Lead Boost: Position the Micro Amp after your gain stages or in your amplifier's effects loop to provide a clean volume boost for solos without adding additional distortion.
• Signal Restoration: In long effects chains, the Micro Amp can be placed at the end to restore any signal loss and maintain overall volume.

Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your MXR Micro Amp, keep the pedal clean and free from dust. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, or moisture. Periodically check all cable connections for secure fit and inspect the battery (if used) for any signs of corrosion or leakage.

Troubleshooting

• No Sound: Ensure all cables are securely connected to the correct input/output jacks. Verify that the power supply (battery or AC adapter) is functioning correctly and properly connected. Check if your guitar's volume knob is turned up.
• Weak Signal: Confirm the 'GAIN' knob is set to an appropriate level. If using a 9-volt battery, check its charge and replace if necessary.
• Unwanted Noise/Hum: Ensure you are using high-quality, shielded instrument cables. Test the pedal in isolation with minimal other equipment to rule out interference from other pedals or power sources.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

The MXR Micro Amp is manufactured by MXR, a brand of Dunlop. This product comes with a standard manufacturer's warranty. For detailed warranty information, product registration, or technical support, please visit the official MXR/Dunlop website or contact their customer service directly. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.