Introduction
The Electro-Harmonix POG2 is an advanced polyphonic octave generator pedal designed for guitarists and other musicians. Building upon its predecessor, the POG2 offers enhanced tonal variations and programmable presets. It allows users to create a wide range of sounds, from subtle octave shifts to rich, symphonic textures, by blending multiple polyphonic octave harmonics with the dry signal. Its intuitive slider controls and memory functions make it a versatile tool for sound exploration and performance.
Figure 1: The Electro-Harmonix POG2 Polyphonic Octave Generator Pedal, showcasing its red and white design with multiple sliders and footswitches.
Key Features
- Totally programmable 8-preset memory with instant recall: Store and instantly access your favorite sound configurations.
- Four polyphonic mixable voices + your guitar: Blend your dry signal with -2 Octaves, -1 Octave, +1 Octave, and +2 Octaves.
- Attack delay slider controls the fade-in speed of the octaves: Smoothly introduce the octave effects for swells and atmospheric sounds.
- Low Pass filter with selectable Q: Shape the tone of the octave effects with a resonant low-pass filter.
- Flawless polyphonic glitch-free tracking: Ensures accurate and clean octave generation across all notes.
Setup Guide
Before operating your POG2 pedal, ensure proper connection to your instrument and amplifier. The pedal requires a 9V DC power supply, which is included with the unit. Always use the provided power supply or a compatible isolated power supply to prevent damage.
- Power Connection: Connect the 9V DC power supply to the "9V DC" input jack on the top of the pedal. Plug the power supply into a standard electrical outlet.
- Instrument Input: Connect your instrument (e.g., guitar) to the "INPUT" jack on the right side of the pedal using a standard 1/4-inch instrument cable.
- Amplifier Output: Connect the "OUTPUT" jack on the left side of the pedal to your amplifier's input using another standard 1/4-inch instrument cable.
- Initial Settings: For first use, set all voice mix sliders (Dry Output, -2 Octaves, -1 Octave, +1 Octave, +2 Octaves) to their lowest position. Set the Attack, LP Filter, and Detune sliders to their lowest positions as well. This provides a clean starting point.
Figure 2: Side view of the POG2 pedal, highlighting the input and output jacks for instrument and amplifier connections.
Operating Instructions
The POG2 offers extensive control over its polyphonic octave effects. Familiarize yourself with each control to unlock its full potential.
Voice Mix Section
These sliders control the volume of each individual voice in your sound mix.
- DRY OUTPUT: Adjusts the volume of your original, unprocessed instrument signal.
- -2 OCTAVES: Controls the volume of the signal two octaves below your original note.
- -1 OCTAVE: Controls the volume of the signal one octave below your original note.
- +1 OCTAVE: Controls the volume of the signal one octave above your original note.
- +2 OCTAVES: Controls the volume of the signal two octaves above your original note.
Figure 3: Detailed view of the Voice Mix section, showing the individual sliders for dry signal and various octave voices.
Effects Section
These controls allow you to further shape the character of the generated octave effects.
- DRY FX Button (with LED): This button determines how your dry signal interacts with the Attack, LP Filter, and Detune effects.
- LED Off: Dry signal bypasses all effects.
- Red LED: Dry signal goes through the Attack effect but bypasses the LP Filter and Detune.
- Green LED: Dry signal goes through the Attack and LP Filter effects but bypasses the Detune.
- Amber LED: Dry signal goes through all three effects: Attack, LP Filter, and Detune.
- ATTACK: Controls the fade-in speed of the octave voices. Higher settings result in a slower, more gradual swell.
- LP FILTER: A low-pass filter that cuts off high frequencies from the octave voices. Moving the slider up opens the filter, allowing more high frequencies through.
- Q Button (with LED): This button adds resonance to the LP Filter. Pressing it cycles through different Q settings, boosting the frequencies around the filter's cutoff point.
- DETUNE: Adds a subtle detuning effect to the octave voices, creating a chorus-like or thickening sound.
Figure 4: Detailed view of the Effects section, including the Attack, LP Filter, Detune sliders, and the Q button.
Preset Management
The POG2 features 8 programmable presets to save and recall your favorite settings.
- PRESET Knob: This rotary knob allows you to select one of the 8 available preset slots. The corresponding LED will illuminate.
- PRESET Footswitch: Tap this footswitch to cycle through the presets sequentially.
- Saving a Preset: To save your current slider and button settings to a preset, select the desired preset number using the PRESET knob. Then, press and hold the PRESET knob for approximately 3 seconds until the preset LED flashes rapidly. Your settings are now saved to that slot.
- BYPASS Footswitch: This footswitch engages or bypasses the POG2 effect. The POG2 features true bypass, ensuring your instrument's signal remains unaffected when the pedal is disengaged.
Figure 5: Close-up of the Preset selection knob and the Preset and Bypass footswitches.
Demonstration Video
Video 1: An official demonstration of the Electro-Harmonix POG2 Polyphonic Octave Generator, showcasing its various features and sound capabilities. The video provides a visual and auditory guide to adjusting the voice mix, effects, and utilizing the preset functions.
Maintenance
To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your POG2 pedal, follow these maintenance guidelines:
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the pedal's exterior. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents, as they may damage the finish or internal components.
- Storage: Store the pedal in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and high humidity when not in use.
- Power Supply: Always disconnect the power supply when the pedal is not in use or during electrical storms.
- Cable Management: Ensure all cables are properly routed and not under excessive tension to prevent damage to the jacks or cables themselves.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No sound when pedal is engaged. | Incorrect cable connections, no power, or all voice mix sliders are at minimum. | Check all cable connections. Ensure power supply is connected and working. Increase the DRY OUTPUT or octave voice sliders. |
| Octave effects are weak or distorted. | Input signal too low/high, incorrect LP Filter/Q settings, or worn cables. | Adjust instrument volume. Experiment with LP Filter and Q settings. Try different cables. |
| Pedal does not save presets. | Preset saving procedure not followed correctly. | Ensure you hold the PRESET knob for 3 seconds until the LED flashes rapidly. |
| Unwanted noise or hum. | Ground loop, faulty power supply, or interference from other electronics. | Use an isolated power supply. Try a different power outlet. Move pedal away from other electronic devices. |
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 1.95 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 5.75"L x 4.75"W x 2.5"H (or 8 x 7 x 3.5 inches, depending on packaging) |
| Item Model Number | POG2 |
| Batteries | 1 9V battery required (for internal operation, but typically powered by included adapter) |
| Hardware Interface | 1/4-inch Audio |
| Signal Format | Analog |
| Power Source | Corded Electric |
| Voltage | 9.6 Volts |
| True Bypass | Yes |
| Preset Memory | 8 programmable presets |
Warranty and Support
Electro-Harmonix products are designed for reliability and performance. For detailed warranty information, product registration, or technical support, please visit the official Electro-Harmonix website or contact their customer service department. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for any warranty claims.
For further assistance, you may also refer to the Electro-Harmonix Store on Amazon.
