MXR M198 Dual Loop Box Instruction Manual

Introduction

The MXR M198 Dual Loop Box is a versatile effects routing device designed to integrate two independent effects loops into your signal chain. It allows musicians to easily switch between or bypass entire effects chains, providing greater control and flexibility over their sound.

Safety Information

Please read these instructions carefully before operating the MXR M198 Dual Loop Box. Keep this manual for future reference.

• Power Supply: Use only a 9V DC power supply with a center-negative polarity. Incorrect power supply can damage the unit and void the warranty.
• Environment: Do not expose the unit to water, excessive moisture, or extreme temperatures. Avoid operating in dusty environments.
• Handling: Handle the unit with care. Avoid dropping or subjecting it to strong impacts.
• Servicing: Do not attempt to service this unit yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.

Features

• Two independent effects loops (Loop A and Loop B).
• True bypass switching for each loop.
• Individual mute switches for each loop.
• Compact and durable metal housing.

Controls and Connections

The MXR M198 Dual Loop Box features a straightforward layout for easy integration and operation.

Image: Front panel view of the MXR M198 Dual Loop Box. The unit is silver with black text. At the top, from left to right, are four jacks: "return a / send a", "return b / send b", and "9Vdc output / input". Below these, two footswitches are visible at the bottom, one for each loop. Above each footswitch are two indicator LEDs (blue and pink) and a small "mute" button. The MXR logo is centered on the unit.

Top Panel Connections:

• RETURN A / SEND A: These are the input and output jacks for Loop A. Connect the output of your effects pedal(s) to RETURN A and the input of your effects pedal(s) to SEND A.
• RETURN B / SEND B: These are the input and output jacks for Loop B. Connect the output of your effects pedal(s) to RETURN B and the input of your effects pedal(s) to SEND B.
• 9Vdc OUTPUT / INPUT: This jack serves as the main input for your instrument signal and the main output to your amplifier. It also provides a 9V DC output for powering other pedals (check power requirements of other pedals before connecting).

Front Panel Controls:

• LOOP A Footswitch: Activates or bypasses Loop A. When active, the blue LED above it illuminates.
• LOOP B Footswitch: Activates or bypasses Loop B. When active, the blue LED above it illuminates.
• MUTE A Button: Mutes the signal passing through Loop A. The pink LED above it illuminates when muted.
• MUTE B Button: Mutes the signal passing through Loop B. The pink LED above it illuminates when muted.
• LED Indicators: Blue LEDs indicate loop activation. Pink LEDs indicate loop mute status.

Setup

1. Power Connection: Connect a 9V DC center-negative power supply to the 9Vdc input jack.
2. Instrument Input: Connect your instrument (e.g., guitar) to the "9Vdc output / input" jack.
3. Amplifier Output: Connect the "9Vdc output / input" jack to your amplifier's input.
4. Loop A Connection: Connect the input of your Loop A effects pedal(s) to the "SEND A" jack and the output of your Loop A effects pedal(s) to the "RETURN A" jack.
5. Loop B Connection: Connect the input of your Loop B effects pedal(s) to the "SEND B" jack and the output of your Loop B effects pedal(s) to the "RETURN B" jack.

Note: The "9Vdc output / input" jack functions as both the main signal input/output and the power input. Ensure proper signal flow when connecting.

Operating Instructions

Activating/Bypassing Loops:

Press the respective footswitch (LOOP A or LOOP B) to toggle the corresponding effects loop on or off. When a loop is active, the blue LED for that loop will illuminate, indicating that the signal is passing through the effects connected in that loop. When the blue LED is off, the loop is bypassed, and the signal passes directly through the Dual Loop Box without going through the effects in that loop.

Muting Loops:

Press the small "MUTE" button above each footswitch to mute the signal of the corresponding loop. When a loop is muted, the pink LED for that loop will illuminate, and no signal will pass through that specific loop, regardless of whether the loop is active or bypassed. This is useful for silent switching or for temporarily cutting off a specific effects chain.

Using Both Loops:

You can use both loops independently or simultaneously. For example, you can have a distortion pedal in Loop A and a delay pedal in Loop B. You can then activate or bypass each effect chain as needed using their respective footswitches.

Maintenance

The MXR M198 Dual Loop Box is designed for durability and requires minimal maintenance.

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the unit. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Storage: When not in use for extended periods, store the unit in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight.
• Connections: Periodically check all cable connections for wear and tear. Ensure jacks are free of debris.

Troubleshooting

Specifications

• Signal Format: Analog
• Voltage: 9 Volts DC
• Control Type: Knob
• Audio Output Effect: Distortion
• ASIN: B009B5QRU2
• First Available Date: September 15, 2012

Note: Some specifications provided may be general product category attributes rather than specific to the Dual Loop Box's function.

Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please contact MXR customer service or visit the official MXR website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.

Website: www.jimdunlop.com/mxr/

Note: Specific warranty terms may vary by region. Please consult the official MXR website or your local distributor for detailed information.