JHS Pedals Double Barrel V3 Overdrive Pedal Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

The JHS Pedals Double Barrel V3 is a versatile overdrive pedal designed to provide a range of low to medium gain tones. It combines two distinct overdrive circuits: the JHS-808 on the right side and the Morning Glory on the left side. This pedal is engineered for transparent overdrive, offering character and stacking capabilities suitable for various tonal requirements. The V3 iteration of the JHS-808 circuit includes an enhanced tone control, more focused low frequencies, improved presence, and warmer clipping. It also features a three-way gain switch for selecting between saturated, boost, and crunch modes. The Morning Glory circuit is known for its transparent, discreet, and open overdrive characteristics. When both circuits are engaged, the pedal offers unique tonal combinations, further enhanced by an order switching toggle that allows users to determine the signal flow between the two circuits.

2. Setup

2.1 Power Requirements

The Double Barrel V3 pedal requires a standard 9V DC power supply with a center-negative barrel connector. The current draw is approximately 100mA. Ensure your power supply meets these specifications to prevent damage to the unit and ensure optimal performance.

2.2 Connecting the Pedal

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 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.
3. Connect the 9V DC power supply to the power input jack located at the top of the pedal.

Image: Angled view of the JHS Pedals Double Barrel V3 Overdrive Pedal, illustrating the input, output, and power connections.

2.3 Signal Chain Placement

The Double Barrel V3 is typically placed early in the signal chain, often after compression pedals and before modulation, delay, and reverb effects. Experiment with its placement to find the sound that best suits your setup and preferences.

3. Operation

The Double Barrel V3 features two independent overdrive circuits, each with its own set of controls and footswitch. An additional toggle switch allows for changing the order of the circuits.

Image: Top-down view of the JHS Pedals Double Barrel V3, highlighting the control layout.

3.1 Controls

The pedal is divided into two main sections:

• Right Side (JHS-808 Circuit):
  
  • Volume Knob: Adjusts the overall output level of the JHS-808 circuit.
  • Drive Knob: Controls the amount of overdrive/gain.
  • Tone Knob: Shapes the EQ, from darker to brighter tones.
  • 3-Way Gain Switch: Selects between different gain stages: Saturated (highest gain), Boost (medium gain), and Crunch (lower gain).
• Left Side (Morning Glory Circuit):
  
  • Volume Knob: Adjusts the overall output level of the Morning Glory circuit.
  • Drive Knob: Controls the amount of overdrive/gain.
  • Tone Knob: Shapes the EQ, from darker to brighter tones.

3.2 Order Switching Toggle

A small toggle switch located in the center of the pedal allows you to change the order in which the two overdrive circuits are stacked. This significantly impacts the resulting tone when both sides are engaged:

• Toggle Up: Morning Glory feeds into JHS-808.
• Toggle Down: JHS-808 feeds into Morning Glory.

Experiment with this switch to discover different tonal characteristics and gain staging options.

3.3 Engaging the Circuits

Each overdrive circuit has its own footswitch:

• The right footswitch engages or bypasses the JHS-808 circuit.
• The left footswitch engages or bypasses the Morning Glory circuit.

The corresponding LED indicator will illuminate when a circuit is active.

4. Maintenance

4.1 Cleaning

To clean the pedal, use a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, solvents, or excessive moisture, as these can damage the finish or internal components.

4.2 Storage

Store the pedal in a dry environment, away from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight. When not in use for extended periods, disconnect the power supply.

4.3 Internal Components

The JHS Pedals Double Barrel V3 contains no user-serviceable parts. Opening the enclosure may void your warranty. For any internal issues, please contact JHS Pedals customer support.

Image: Internal view of the JHS Pedals Double Barrel V3 circuit board, showing components and wiring.

5. Troubleshooting

5.1 No Sound

• Check Connections: Ensure all instrument cables are securely plugged into the input and output jacks, and the power supply is correctly connected.
• Power Supply: Verify that the power supply is providing 9V DC, center-negative, and at least 100mA. Try a different power supply if available.
• Bypass Test: Bypass the pedal by connecting your guitar directly to the amplifier. If sound is present, the issue is likely with the pedal or its connections.
• Footswitches: Ensure the desired circuit's footswitch is engaged (LED illuminated).

5.2 Poor Sound Quality / Noise

• Cable Quality: Use high-quality, shielded instrument cables. Faulty cables can introduce noise.
• Power Supply Noise: Ensure your power supply is isolated and free from noise. Daisy-chaining with other high-current pedals can sometimes introduce hum.
• Control Settings: Adjust the Tone and Drive knobs. Extreme settings can sometimes produce undesirable sounds depending on your amplifier and guitar.
• Ground Loops: If using multiple pedals, a ground loop isolator might be necessary to eliminate hum.

6. Specifications

7. Warranty and Support

For information regarding warranty coverage, technical support, or service, please contact JHS Pedals directly through their official website or authorized dealers. Please have your purchase information and the pedal's serial number available when contacting support.