Electro-Harmonix Holy Grail Max Reverb Pedal User Manual

Introduction

The Electro-Harmonix Holy Grail Max is a versatile reverb pedal designed for guitarists and other musicians seeking high-quality reverb effects. It expands upon the classic Holy Grail series by offering four distinct reverb types: Spring, Hall, Plate, and Reverse. This manual provides detailed instructions for setup, operation, and maintenance of your Holy Grail Max pedal, ensuring you can fully utilize its capabilities.

Key Features

• True Bypass: Ensures maximum signal path integrity when the effect is disengaged.
• Durable Construction: Housed in a compact, rugged die-cast chassis for reliability.
• Power Adapter Included: Comes with a dedicated power adapter for immediate use.
• Four Reverb Algorithms: Offers Spring, Hall, Plate, and Reverse reverb types.
• Multi-Function Control: The TIME knob adjusts decay for standard reverbs and reverse time for the Reverse mode.

Setup

Power Connection

Connect the included 9.6VDC/200mA power adapter to the 9V power jack located at the top of the pedal. The Holy Grail Max requires a 9VDC power supply with a center-negative plug. Ensure the power supply meets these specifications to prevent damage to the unit.

Audio Connections

1. 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.
2. Connect the AMP (output) jack on the left side of the pedal to your amplifier or the next pedal in your signal chain using a standard 1/4-inch instrument cable.

For optimal performance, it is generally recommended to place reverb pedals towards the end of your effects chain, typically after overdrive, distortion, and modulation effects, but before your amplifier's input.

Image: Top-down view of the Electro-Harmonix Holy Grail Max Reverb Pedal, showing the input/output jacks, power input, and control knobs.

Operation

The Holy Grail Max features three control knobs and a footswitch for engaging and disengaging the effect.

Controls

• BLEND Knob: This knob controls the mix ratio between the dry (unaffected) signal and the wet (effected) signal.
  • Turning clockwise increases the amount of reverb effect.
  • Turning counter-clockwise decreases the amount of reverb effect.
  • At its minimum setting, only the dry signal is heard. At its maximum setting, the dry signal is removed, leaving only the reverb tail.
• TIME Knob: This knob adjusts the duration of the reverb effect.
  • For Spring, Hall, and Plate modes, it controls the reverb decay time. Turning clockwise increases the decay time.
  • For Reverse mode, it controls the reverse effect time. Turning clockwise increases the reverse time.
• REVERB Knob: This rotary switch selects one of the four available reverb algorithms.
  • SPRING: Emulates a classic spring reverb tank, characterized by its distinctive bounce and metallic qualities.
  • HALL: Simulates the acoustics of a large concert hall, providing a spacious and ambient sound with a smooth decay.
  • PLATE: Recreates the dense, bright, and smooth decay of a plate reverb, often favored for vocals and drums.
  • REV (Reverse): Produces a reverse reverb effect, where the reverb tail swells in before the dry signal, creating unique atmospheric textures.

Footswitch and LED

The footswitch engages or bypasses the reverb effect. When the effect is active, the red LED indicator will illuminate. When the effect is bypassed (true bypass), the LED will be off, and your signal will pass through the pedal unaffected, preserving your original tone.

Image: Angled view of the Holy Grail Max pedal, highlighting the footswitch and control knobs.

Maintenance

• Keep the pedal clean by wiping it with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents, which can damage the finish or internal components.
• Protect the pedal from extreme temperatures, moisture, and direct sunlight to ensure its longevity.
• Ensure all cable connections are secure before use to prevent signal loss or intermittent operation.
• If the pedal is not in use for an extended period, disconnect the power supply to prevent unnecessary wear and tear.

Troubleshooting

Specifications

Warranty and Support

Electro-Harmonix products are designed for reliability and performance. For information regarding warranty coverage, technical support, or service, please refer to the official Electro-Harmonix website or contact their customer service department. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.

Official Electro-Harmonix Website: www.ehx.com