1. Introduction
The DigiTech DOD Gonkulator Ring Modulator is a unique guitar effect pedal designed to produce clangy, robotic sounds and aggressive distortion. This updated version offers enhanced flexibility with an adjustable carrier signal control, allowing for a wide range of tonal experimentation from subtle modulation to extreme atonal effects. It also features a built-in distortion circuit to further shape your sound.
2. Key Features
- Adjustable Carrier Signal: Provides precise control over the ring modulation effect.
- True Bypass: Ensures your guitar's tone remains pristine when the pedal is disengaged.
- Lighter Aluminum Chassis: Durable and pedalboard-friendly design.
- Aggressive Distortion Circuit: Integrated distortion for signal mangling.
- Independent Controls: Dedicated knobs for Gain, Distortion, Output, Frequency, and Ring.
- Modern 9V DC Power Supply Input: Compatible with standard pedalboard power.
3. Controls and Functions
The DOD Gonkulator features five control knobs and a footswitch for comprehensive sound shaping.
Image 1: Top view of the DOD Gonkulator Ring Modulator pedal, showing all control knobs and the footswitch.
- GAIN: Adjusts the input gain for the distortion circuit.
- DIST (Distortion): Controls the amount of distortion applied to the signal.
- OUTPUT: Sets the overall output volume of the pedal.
- FREQ (Frequency): Adjusts the carrier signal frequency for the ring modulation effect. This knob is crucial for tuning the robotic sounds.
- RING: Controls the blend of the dry signal with the ring modulated signal. Turn clockwise for more ring modulation.
- Footswitch: Toggles the effect on/off. Features true bypass.
4. Setup and Connections
Follow these steps to connect your DOD Gonkulator pedal:
- Power Supply: Connect a standard 9V DC power adapter (center negative) to the PSU jack on the pedal. The pedal also includes a 9V battery.
- Input: Connect your guitar to the "IN" jack on the right side of the pedal using a standard 1/4-inch instrument cable.
- Output: Connect the "OUT" jack on the left side of the pedal to your amplifier's input (or the next pedal in your signal chain) using a standard 1/4-inch instrument cable.
Image 2: Side view of the DOD Gonkulator pedal, highlighting the input and output jacks for connecting to your guitar and amplifier.
5. Operating the Pedal
The DOD Gonkulator combines ring modulation and distortion effects. Experiment with the controls to find your desired sound.
- Ring Modulation:
- Start with the RING knob at a low setting.
- Adjust the FREQ knob to sweep through different carrier frequencies, creating various robotic and metallic tones.
- Increase the RING knob to blend more of the modulated signal.
- Distortion:
- Use the GAIN knob to control the input level into the distortion circuit.
- Adjust the DIST knob to set the amount of overdrive/distortion.
- The distortion circuit can be used independently or in conjunction with the ring modulator for unique textures.
- Volume Control: Use the OUTPUT knob to match the pedal's volume to your bypassed signal or to provide a boost.
Video 1: Demonstration of the Sonicake Bitcrusher pedal, showcasing various bitcrushing effects. While not the Gonkulator, this video provides an example of digital audio manipulation effects.
Video 2: Another demonstration of the SONICAKE Bitcrusher Guitar Pedal, illustrating its sound capabilities. This video offers insight into similar sound manipulation effects.
6. Maintenance
- Keep the pedal clean and free from dust. Use a soft, dry cloth.
- Avoid exposing the pedal to extreme temperatures, humidity, or direct sunlight.
- When not in use for extended periods, disconnect the power supply and remove the 9V battery to prevent leakage.
7. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No sound when pedal is engaged. | Incorrect connections, dead battery, faulty power supply. | Check all cable connections. Replace the 9V battery or try a different power adapter. Ensure the power adapter meets 9V DC (center negative) specifications. |
| Weak or distorted sound. | Low battery, incorrect knob settings, faulty cables. | Replace the 9V battery. Adjust GAIN, DIST, and OUTPUT knobs. Test with different instrument cables. |
| Unwanted noise or hum. | Ground loop, interference from other electronics, faulty power supply. | Use an isolated power supply. Ensure all cables are properly shielded. Try moving the pedal away from other electronic devices. |
8. Specifications
- Item Weight: 9.9 ounces
- Product Dimensions: 6.63 x 4.25 x 4.81 inches
- Item Model Number: DOD-GONKULATOR
- Batteries: 1 x 9V battery required (included)
- Power Source: Corded Electric (9V DC, center negative)
- Color: Blue
- Signal Format: Analog
- Hardware Interface: 1/4-inch Audio
9. Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official DigiTech website or contact your authorized dealer. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.
You can visit the DigiTech Store for more products and information.
