VOX Mini5 Rhythm Battery-Powered 5W Modeling Amplifier User Manual

1. Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the VOX Mini5 Rhythm Battery-Powered 5W Modeling Amplifier. This versatile and portable amplifier is designed for musicians who need a powerful yet compact solution for practice, rehearsals, and on-the-go performances. With its wide array of features, including 99 adjustable rhythm patterns, 11 authentic amp models, and 8 on-board effects, the Mini5 Rhythm offers a comprehensive toolkit for shaping your sound.

This manual provides detailed instructions on how to set up, operate, and maintain your amplifier to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

2. Safety Information

Please read and understand all safety instructions before operating the VOX Mini5 Rhythm amplifier. Retain this manual for future reference.

Power Source: Use only the specified power adapter or six AA batteries. Ensure correct battery polarity when installing.
Ventilation: Do not block any ventilation openings. Ensure adequate airflow around the amplifier to prevent overheating.
Water & Moisture: Do not expose the amplifier to rain, moisture, or excessive humidity. Do not place objects filled with liquids on or near the unit.
Heat Sources: Keep the amplifier away from heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus that produce heat.
Cleaning: Disconnect power before cleaning. Use a dry cloth only.
Servicing: Do not attempt to service this product yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
Handling: Handle with care. Avoid dropping or subjecting the unit to strong impacts.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in your package:

VOX Mini5 Rhythm Amplifier (Black)
AC Power Adapter
Carrying Strap
User Manual (this document)
6 x AA Batteries (may not be included depending on region/retailer)

4. Controls and Functions

Familiarize yourself with the various controls and input/output jacks on your Mini5 Rhythm amplifier.

4.1 Top Panel Controls

Top panel view of the VOX Mini5 Rhythm amplifier showing all knobs and inputs.

Figure 4.1: Top Panel Controls of the Mini5 Rhythm Amplifier.

This image displays the top control panel of the VOX Mini5 Rhythm amplifier. Key controls include: INPUT jack for guitar, MIC IN jack for microphone, TRIM knob for microphone input level, EFFECTS section with knobs for CHORUS, COMP, FLANGER, TREM, T.ECHO, SPRING, ROOM, and A.DLY. The AMP section features a large rotary knob for selecting 11 different amp models (AC30TB, AC15, TWEED 4x10, BLACK 2x12, BTQ CLEAN, UK '70s, UK '80s, UK '90s, CALI METAL, US HIGAIN, LINE). GAIN, TONE, and VOLUME knobs adjust the overall sound. The RHYTHM section includes a GENRE knob (POP, METAL, ROCK, 16 BEAT, 8 BEAT, R&B, JAZZ, LATIN, DANCE, ODD METER, METRO), TEMPO and LEVEL knobs, and VARIATIONS buttons. An AUX IN jack and PHONES jack are also visible on the right side.

INPUT Jack: Connect your guitar here.
MIC IN Jack: Connect a microphone (XLR to 1/4" adapter may be needed).
TRIM Knob: Adjusts the input level for the MIC IN jack.
AMP Selector: Choose from 11 authentic amp models, including classic VOX tones and high-gain options.
GAIN Knob: Controls the amount of distortion or overdrive.
TONE Knob: Adjusts the tonal character (treble/bass balance).
VOLUME Knob: Controls the overall output volume.
EFFECTS Section: Select and adjust 8 different effects (Compressor, Chorus, Flanger, Tremolo, Tape Echo, Spring Reverb, Room Reverb, Analog Delay).
RHYTHM Section:
- GENRE Knob: Select from 99 rhythm patterns across various genres (Rock, Metal, R&B, Jazz, Latin, Dance, Pop, 8 Beat, 16 Beat, Odd Meter, Metronome).
- TEMPO Knob: Adjust the speed of the selected rhythm pattern (40-240 bpm).
- LEVEL Knob: Controls the volume of the rhythm pattern.
- VARIATIONS Buttons: Cycle through different variations of the selected rhythm pattern.
- START/STOP Button: Starts or stops the rhythm pattern. Hold to activate the E-Tuner.
AUX IN Jack: Connect an external audio device (e.g., MP3 player, smartphone) to play along with.
PHONES Jack: Connect headphones for silent practice.

4.2 Rear Panel

Rear panel view of the VOX Mini5 Rhythm amplifier showing power input and battery compartment.

Figure 4.2: Rear Panel of the Mini5 Rhythm Amplifier.

This image shows the rear panel of the VOX Mini5 Rhythm amplifier. It features the DC 12V power input jack, the battery compartment cover, and regulatory information. The battery compartment is designed to hold six AA size alkaline batteries (LR6(9V)).

DC 12V Input: Connect the included AC power adapter here.
Battery Compartment: Houses six AA batteries for portable operation.

5. Setup

5.1 Powering the Amplifier

The Mini5 Rhythm can be powered by either the included AC adapter or six AA batteries.

Using the AC Adapter:
1. Connect the AC adapter to the DC 12V input on the rear panel.
2. Plug the AC adapter into a standard wall outlet.
Using Batteries:
1. Open the battery compartment cover on the rear panel.
2. Insert six AA alkaline batteries, ensuring correct polarity as indicated inside the compartment.
3. Close the battery compartment cover securely.
Note: Batteries allow for approximately 19.5 hours of operation.

5.2 Initial Connections

Guitar Connection: Plug your guitar cable into the INPUT jack on the top panel.
Microphone Connection (Optional): If using a microphone, connect it to the MIC IN jack. Adjust the TRIM knob to set the microphone's input level.
External Audio (Optional): To play along with music, connect your MP3 player or smartphone to the AUX IN jack using a 3.5mm stereo cable.
Headphone Connection (Optional): For silent practice, plug your headphones into the PHONES jack. This will mute the main speaker output.

6. Operating Instructions

6.1 Turning On/Off

Press and hold the power button (located near the VOLUME knob) until the power indicator light illuminates (or extinguishes) to turn the amplifier on or off.

6.2 Selecting Amp Models

Rotate the large AMP selector knob to choose from 11 different amplifier models. Each model offers a unique tonal characteristic, from clean and classic to high-gain and modern.

AC30TB: Classic VOX AC30 Top Boost tone.
AC15: Vintage VOX AC15 sound.
TWEED 4x10: American tweed-era combo sound.
BLACK 2x12: Classic American black-panel combo.
BTQ CLEAN: Boutique clean tone.
UK '70s, UK '80s, UK '90s: British rock tones from different decades.
CALI METAL, US HIGAIN: Modern high-gain sounds.
LINE: Flat, clean response suitable for acoustic-electric guitars or keyboards.

6.3 Adjusting Gain, Tone, and Volume

GAIN: Increase for more distortion/sustain, decrease for cleaner tones.
TONE: Adjust to brighten or darken your sound.
VOLUME: Controls the overall loudness of your guitar/microphone signal.

6.4 Using Effects

The Mini5 Rhythm features 8 built-in effects. Rotate the EFFECTS knobs to select and adjust the intensity of the desired effect.

COMP: Compressor for sustained notes.
CHORUS: Adds a swirling, shimmering effect.
FLANGER: Creates a sweeping, jet-plane like sound.
TREM: Tremolo effect for pulsating volume.
T.ECHO: Tape echo simulation.
SPRING: Spring reverb simulation.
ROOM: Room reverb simulation.
A.DLY: Analog delay.

6.5 Utilizing Rhythm Patterns and Tuner

The rhythm section provides 99 patterns for practice and jamming. The built-in tuner helps keep your guitar in tune.

Video 6.1: Overview of the VOX Mini5 Rhythm Amplifier's features, including rhythm patterns, amp models, and effects.

This video provides a comprehensive demonstration of the VOX Mini5 Rhythm amplifier. It highlights the various rhythm patterns available, showcasing different genres and how to adjust tempo and level. The video also demonstrates the 11 authentic amp models and 8 on-board effects, illustrating their versatility for different playing styles. It covers the portability of the amplifier, its battery operation, and the utility of its microphone and auxiliary inputs, making it an ideal tool for practice and performance.

Selecting Rhythm: Rotate the GENRE knob to choose a rhythm style. Use the VARIATIONS buttons to cycle through different patterns within that genre.
Adjusting Rhythm: Use the TEMPO knob to set the speed (BPM) and the LEVEL knob to set the volume of the rhythm pattern.
Start/Stop Rhythm: Press the START/STOP button to begin or end the rhythm playback.
Using the Tuner: Hold down the START/STOP button to activate the built-in E-Tuner. The VARIATIONS lights will indicate if your E string is in tune.

7. Maintenance

Cleaning: Wipe the amplifier with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use liquid cleaners or abrasive chemicals.
Storage: When not in use for extended periods, store the amplifier in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Remove batteries if storing for a long time to prevent leakage.
Battery Replacement: Replace all six AA batteries when the power indicator light dims or the amplifier's performance degrades.
Handle with Care: Avoid dropping the unit or subjecting it to strong vibrations.

8. Troubleshooting

Problem	Possible Cause	Solution
No sound from speaker.	Headphones connected; Volume too low; Incorrect input selected; Power issue.	Disconnect headphones; Increase VOLUME knob; Ensure guitar/mic is plugged into correct INPUT; Check power adapter/batteries.
Rhythm pattern not playing.	Rhythm volume too low; Pattern not started.	Increase RHYTHM LEVEL knob; Press START/STOP button.
Distorted or poor sound quality.	GAIN too high; Incorrect amp model; Low batteries.	Reduce GAIN; Try different AMP models; Replace batteries.
Microphone input too quiet/loud.	TRIM knob setting.	Adjust the TRIM knob for optimal microphone level.

9. Specifications

Amp Models: 11 types
Effects: 8 types
Rhythms: 99 patterns
Tempo Range: 40-240 bpm
Tuner Range: E1-E6 (41.2 Hz-1318.5 Hz)
Output Wattage: 5 Watts
Power Source: Battery Powered (6 AA batteries required) or AC Adapter (DC 12V)
Item Weight: 7.72 pounds (3.5 kg)
Product Dimensions: 14 x 7 x 11 inches (35.56 x 17.78 x 27.94 cm)
Compatible Devices: Guitar, Microphone, External Audio Devices (via Aux In)
Connector Type: 3.5mm Jack (Aux In, Phones), 1/4" Jack (Input), XLR/1/4" Combo Jack (Mic In)

10. Warranty and Support

VOX products are manufactured to the highest quality standards. For information regarding warranty coverage, technical support, or service, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official VOX website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

For further assistance, you may also contact VOX customer support directly through their official channels.

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