BOSS RV-6 Reverb Guitar Pedal

1. Introduction

The BOSS RV-6 is a compact and versatile reverb pedal designed for guitarists, offering a wide range of high-quality reverb effects. This pedal combines advanced BOSS technology with intuitive controls to provide lush, expansive soundscapes. It features eight distinct sound modes, stereo operation capabilities, and an input for an expression pedal, allowing for dynamic control over your reverb effects.

2. Safety Precautions

• Power Supply: Use only the specified AC adapter (PSA series, sold separately) or a 9V alkaline battery. Using any other adapter may cause malfunction or electric shock.
• Liquid: Do not expose the unit to rain, use it in high humidity, or place containers with liquids on it.
• Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation. Do not block vents or place the unit in an enclosed space.
• Handling: Avoid strong impacts. Do not drop the unit.
• Repairs: Do not attempt to repair the unit yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.

3. Setup

3.1 Unpacking

Upon opening the package, verify that all components are present. The standard package includes the RV-6 pedal and a 9V alkaline battery. If any items are missing or damaged, contact your retailer.

3.2 Power Supply

The RV-6 can be powered by a 9V alkaline battery or an optional BOSS PSA series AC adapter. For extended use, an AC adapter is recommended.

Battery Installation/Replacement

1. Loosen the thumbscrew at the front of the pedal and open the pedal.
2. Remove the old battery (if present) and disconnect its snap connector.
3. Connect the new 9V alkaline battery to the snap connector.
4. Place the battery inside the housing and close the pedal. Secure the thumbscrew.

Note: The CHECK indicator will dim or not light up when the battery is low. Replace the battery promptly.

3.3 Initial Connections

Before making connections, ensure your amplifier and other audio equipment are turned off to prevent damage from sudden loud noises.

• Connect your guitar to the INPUT A (MONO) jack.
• Connect the OUTPUT A (MONO) jack to your amplifier's input.
• For stereo operation, connect a second cable from INPUT B to your signal source (if applicable) and from OUTPUT B to a second amplifier or mixer input.
• If using an expression pedal (e.g., Roland EV-5), connect it to the EXP jack.

4. Controls and Functions

Figure 4.1: Top view of the BOSS RV-6 Reverb Pedal, showing control knobs and pedal switch.

• E. LEVEL Knob: Adjusts the overall effect level (wet signal). Turn clockwise to increase the reverb volume.
• TONE Knob: Controls the tone or brightness of the reverb sound. Adjusting this knob can make the reverb brighter or darker.
• TIME Knob: Determines the decay time of the reverb effect. Turning it clockwise increases the length of the reverb tail.
• MODE Knob: Selects one of the eight available reverb types.
• INPUT A (MONO) / INPUT B Jacks: Connect your guitar or other instruments here. Use INPUT A for mono input.
• OUTPUT A (MONO) / OUTPUT B Jacks: Connect to your amplifier(s) or mixer. Use OUTPUT A for mono output.
• EXP Jack: Connect an optional expression pedal to control parameters in real-time.
• Pedal Switch: Toggles the effect on/off.
• CHECK Indicator: Lights up when the effect is on. Also indicates battery status (dims when battery is low).

Figure 4.2: Angled view of the BOSS RV-6, highlighting the input and output jacks.

5. Operating Modes

The RV-6 offers eight distinct reverb modes, each providing a unique sonic character:

• MODULATE: Adds modulation to the reverb, creating a lush, swirling, and expansive sound. Ideal for ambient textures.
• SPRING: Emulates the classic sound of a spring reverb tank, known for its metallic and splashy character. Suitable for vintage tones.
• PLATE: Recreates the smooth, bright, and dense decay of a plate reverb. Often used for vocals and drums, but also effective on guitar.
• HALL: Simulates the natural reverberation of a large concert hall, providing a long, spacious, and resonant decay.
• ROOM: Offers the natural ambiance of a smaller room, characterized by a shorter, more intimate decay. Useful for adding subtle depth without overwhelming the dry signal.
• +DELAY: Combines reverb with a delay effect. The TIME knob controls the delay time, and the TONE knob adjusts the delay feedback.
• SHIMMER: Creates an ethereal, harmonically rich reverb with an upward octave shift in the reverb tail. Excellent for atmospheric and experimental sounds.
• DYNAMIC: Adjusts the reverb level based on your playing dynamics. The reverb becomes more prominent when you play softly and recedes when you play harder, preventing wash-out.

6. Connecting to Your System

6.1 Mono Connection

For a standard mono setup, connect your guitar to the INPUT A (MONO) jack and the OUTPUT A (MONO) jack to your amplifier's input. This is the most common configuration.

6.2 Stereo Connection

To utilize the RV-6's stereo capabilities, connect your signal source (e.g., stereo output from another pedal or a stereo instrument) to both INPUT A and INPUT B. Then, connect OUTPUT A to one amplifier/channel and OUTPUT B to a second amplifier/channel. This creates a wide, immersive stereo reverb effect.

6.3 Expression Pedal Connection

An optional expression pedal (e.g., Roland EV-5) can be connected to the EXP jack to control specific parameters in real-time. The function controlled by the expression pedal may vary depending on the selected reverb mode. Refer to the official BOSS documentation for detailed information on expression pedal assignments for each mode.

7. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Wipe the unit with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Storage: Store the unit in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Remove the battery if the unit will not be used for an extended period.
• Battery Life: The typical battery life for continuous use is approximately 5 hours with an alkaline battery. This can vary depending on usage conditions.

8. Troubleshooting

If the problem persists after attempting these solutions, contact BOSS customer support or a qualified service technician.

9. Specifications

• Model: RV-6
• Nominal Input Level: -20 dBu
• Input Impedance: 1 M ohm
• Nominal Output Level: -20 dBu
• Output Impedance: 1 k ohm
• Recommended Load Impedance: 10 k ohms or greater
• Controls: E. LEVEL knob, TONE knob, TIME knob, MODE knob, Pedal switch
• Indicators: CHECK indicator (serves also as battery check indicator)
• Connectors: INPUT A (MONO) jack, INPUT B jack, OUTPUT A (MONO) jack, OUTPUT B jack, EXP jack, AC adapter jack (DC 9 V)
• Power Supply: Alkaline battery (9V, 6LR61) or AC adapter (PSA series: sold separately)
• Current Draw: 65 mA
• Expected Battery Life (Alkaline): Approx. 5 hours (These figures will vary depending on the actual conditions of use.)
• Dimensions (W x D x H): 73 mm x 129 mm x 59 mm (2-7/8 x 5-1/8 x 2-3/8 inches)
• Weight: 450 g (1 lb) (including battery)
• Accessories: Owner's Manual, Leaflet ('USING THE UNIT SAFELY,' 'IMPORTANT NOTES,' and 'Information'), Alkaline battery (9V, 6LR61)

* 0 dBu = 0.775 Vrms
* Specifications are subject to change without notice.

10. Warranty and Support

BOSS products are designed for reliability and performance. For information regarding warranty coverage, service, or technical support, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official BOSS website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.

For further assistance, please contact BOSS customer support in your region.