Behringer CS400 Compressor Sustainer Pedal User Manual

1. Introduction

The Behringer CS400 Compressor Sustainer is an effects pedal designed to enhance your guitar tone by providing smooth compression and extended sustain. This pedal helps to normalize signal levels, making quiet notes louder and loud notes softer, resulting in a more consistent and impactful sound.

Key features include:

• Super-smooth compression and endless sustain capabilities.
• Ability to compress loud signals and boost low signals without degrading the original sound quality.
• Dedicated controls for Level, Tone, Attack, and Sustain for precise sound shaping.
• Blue status LED for indicating effect on/off status and battery check.

Figure 1: Behringer CS400 Compressor Sustainer Pedal. This image shows the top view of the green pedal with its four control knobs and footswitch.

2. Important Safety Instructions

• Read these instructions carefully before operating the device.
• Keep these instructions for future reference.
• Heed all warnings on the product and in the operating instructions.
• Do not use this apparatus near water or moisture.
• Clean only with a dry cloth.
• Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
• Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
• Use only attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
• Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way.

3. Setup and Connections

3.1 Power Supply

The CS400 pedal can be powered by a 9V battery or an optional 9V DC power adapter.

• Battery Operation: The pedal requires one 9V battery. To install or replace the battery, carefully remove the pedal from its base. The battery compartment is located underneath. Ensure the battery is fresh for optimal performance.
• AC Adapter Operation: For extended use, a 9V DC power adapter (not included) can be connected to the DC input jack. Use only high-quality, regulated 9V DC adapters to prevent noise or damage to the unit.

3.2 Audio Connections

Connect your instrument to the INPUT jack using a standard 1/4-inch instrument cable. Connect the OUTPUT jack to your amplifier or the next pedal in your signal chain using another 1/4-inch instrument cable.

The pedal features a true bypass circuit, meaning that when the effect is disengaged, your signal passes through without any coloration.

4. Operating the CS400

The Behringer CS400 features four primary control knobs and a footswitch for activation.

• LEVEL: This knob controls the overall output volume of the effect. Adjust it to match the volume of your bypassed signal or to boost your sound.
• TONE: The Tone knob adjusts the tonal character of the compressed signal, allowing you to brighten or darken your sound.
• ATTACK: This control determines how quickly the compressor reacts to the initial transient of your notes. A faster attack (lower setting) will compress the initial peak more, while a slower attack (higher setting) will allow more of the initial peak to pass through before compression engages.
• SUSTAIN: The Sustain knob controls the amount of sustain added to your notes. Higher settings will increase the duration of your notes by boosting the decaying signal.
• Footswitch: Press the footswitch to engage or disengage the compressor/sustainer effect. The blue LED will illuminate when the effect is active.

Experiment with different settings to find the ideal compression and sustain for your playing style and musical context.

5. Maintenance

5.1 Cleaning

Clean the pedal with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use liquid cleaners or solvents, as they may damage the finish or internal components.

5.2 Battery Replacement

When the blue status LED dims or the sound quality degrades, it is time to replace the 9V battery. To access the battery compartment, you must carefully remove the pedal's top section from its base. This involves pivoting the pedal on its spring-loaded pins. Aligning the pins during reassembly can be challenging; gentle manipulation is recommended.

Always dispose of used batteries responsibly according to local regulations.

6. Troubleshooting

• No Sound:
  • Check all cable connections (instrument to input, output to amplifier).
  • Ensure the pedal is powered (fresh 9V battery or functional AC adapter).
  • Verify the amplifier is on and its volume is up.
• Distorted or Unpleasant Sound:
  • If using a battery, replace it with a fresh 9V battery. A dying battery can cause distortion.
  • If using an AC adapter, ensure it is a high-quality, regulated 9V DC adapter. Cheap adapters can introduce noise or distortion.
  • Check your guitar's output and amplifier's input levels.
  • Adjust the pedal's Level, Tone, Attack, and Sustain knobs.
• Effect Not Engaging (LED not lighting up):
  • Check power supply (battery or AC adapter).
  • Ensure the footswitch is fully pressed.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

For detailed warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official Behringer website or contact your local Behringer distributor. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.