NUX MG-100 Electric Guitar Multi-Effects Pedal Processor User Manual

1. Introduction

The NUX MG-100 is a versatile multi-effects pedal processor designed for electric guitarists. It integrates a wide array of effects, amplifier models, and utility features into a compact and portable unit. This manual provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your MG-100 to ensure optimal performance.

Figure 1: NUX MG-100 Multi-Effects Pedal Processor

2. Product Features

• A total of 58 effects, with up to 8 usable simultaneously.
• 13 classic amp models utilizing NUX's TS/AC technology.
• Vintage 3-band passive EQ modeling for each amp model.
• 6-band graphic EQ specifically designed for electric guitar (120Hz, 250Hz, 750Hz, 1.6kHz, 3.2kHz, 6.4kHz).
• 11 cabinet models for diverse sound shaping.
• Seamless and quick preset switching.
• Up to 40 seconds phrase loop with sound-on-sound capability.
• Built-in drum machine with CD quality PCM sounds.
• Large color TFT LCD panel (160x128) with a graphic interface for intuitive operation.
• A total of 72 presets (36 factory + 36 user presets).
• Powered by six AA/LR6 alkaline batteries for up to 8 hours of continuous use, or via AC adapter.
• Built-in tuner for accurate instrument tuning.

3. Front Panel Controls and Functions

Figure 2: Front Panel Layout

1. PRESET ▲▼ Foot Switches: Used to select presets. The right switch selects the next preset up, and the left switch selects the next preset down. Press both switches simultaneously to enter tuning mode.
2. Expression Pedal: Provides real-time control over volume, wah, or assigned effect parameters. It includes a switch to activate/deactivate the wah feature by applying extra pressure to the toe. Sensitivity can be calibrated.
3. MODULE Buttons: Navigate through the effects modules. Pressing these buttons cycles through the available effect sets displayed on the screen.
4. SAVE Button: Saves your customized tone settings. Press once to initiate saving, use the SELECT knob to choose characters for the preset name, and MODULE knobs to change characters. Select the group and preset location with PRESET ▲▼, then press SAVE again to confirm.
5. TAP Button: Sets the overall tempo for delay time synchronization and LFO frequency for modulation effects. Tap tempo is calculated from the average of the first two to ten taps. The tempo is displayed in beats per minute (BPM).
6. Display: A 160x128 TFT LCD screen showing information for various functions. In LIVE mode, it displays the current preset number and name. In EDIT mode, it shows the model name.
7. EDIT Button: In SAVE mode, this button stops the save procedure. In LIVE and EDIT mode, it switches between these two modes.
8. JAM Button: Activates or deactivates the built-in drum and loop machine interface.
9. MIXER Button: Enters MIXER mode, recommended when connecting the MG-100 directly to a recorder, hi-fi system, headphones, or other audio devices.
10. SELECT Knob: Used to choose effects for each module in LIVE mode, characters in SAVE mode, and tempo in DRUM mode.
11. KNOBS 1-3: Adjust parameters of the selected effect module. Knob 3 specifically controls the master volume in LIVE mode.
12. PEDAL Button: Selects the module to assign to the expression pedal. In SAVE mode, it's used to choose characters. In DRUM mode, it's used to enter the tempo.

4. Rear Panel Connections

Figure 3: Rear Panel Layout

1. INPUT (13): Connect your instrument to this high-impedance input.
2. OUTPUT (14): Connect to the input of a guitar amplifier or mixer for mono operation. A Y-cable can be used to send the output to two amplifiers.
3. AUX IN (15): Connect the headphone output of an MP3 player or CD player. Adjust the playback device's output level and the MG-100's master Level Knob for proper volume balance.
4. DC IN (16): Connect the included DC9V negative tip power supply.

5. Powering the Device

5.1. Connections

Figure 4: Connection Diagram

• Use only the included AC adapter or a DC9V (center minus plug) 300mA power adapter. Using an incorrect adapter may cause damage.
• The INPUT jack also functions as a power switch. Inserting a plug turns on the power; disconnecting it turns off the power. Always unplug the cable when the MG-100 is not in use.
• Connect your guitar amp to the OUTPUT jack. For stereo output, use a Y-cable to connect to two guitar amps. Stereo headphones can also be connected to the OUTPUT jack. Ensure MIXER function is enabled for proper frequency response with headphones.

5.2. Installing Batteries

• Turn the unit over and open the battery compartment cover on the bottom.
• Insert six AA batteries, ensuring correct polarity (+ and - ends).
• Avoid mixing new and used batteries.
• A "Low Battery" indicator will appear on the display when batteries are low. The remaining charge can be checked in edit modes.

5.3. Turning On the Power

• Before powering on, turn down the volume on all connected devices.
• Insert the guitar cable into the INPUT jack.
• Turn on any connected CD/MP3 player or other Aux input devices.
• Turn on the guitar amp or other output devices.
• Gradually adjust the volume of each device to your desired level.

6. Basic Operation

6.1. Exploring Presets and Effects

The NUX MG-100 comes with 72 presets (36 factory and 36 user-definable) and 58 different effects. Use the PRESET ▲▼ foot switches to navigate through them. The MODULE buttons allow you to step through different effect types within a preset.

The following video demonstrates various presets and features of the MG-100, including the wah pedal, battery compartment, drum machine, and different amp/effect sounds.

6.2. Editing and Saving Tones

To customize a tone, press the EDIT button. You can then use the SELECT knob and KNOBS 1-3 to adjust parameters for various effects like EQ, Noise Gate, Chorus, and Delay. After making adjustments, press the SAVE button to store your custom tone in one of the user preset slots. You can name your custom presets using the SELECT knob and MODULE buttons.

6.3. Drum Machine and Looper

The MG-100 features a built-in drum machine and a 40-second phrase looper. Press the JAM button to access these features. You can select various drum styles (Rock, Country, Blues, Metal, etc.) and use the looper for practice or song creation.

The following video provides a demonstration of the built-in tuner, drum machine, and looper functions.

6.4. Tuner

To activate the built-in tuner, press both PRESET ▲▼ foot switches simultaneously. The display will show the tuning interface, allowing you to accurately tune your guitar.

7. Specifications

8. Troubleshooting

• No Sound: Check all cable connections (guitar, amp, power). Ensure the volume knobs on the MG-100 and your amplifier are turned up. Verify that the correct input and output settings are selected.
• Distorted/Unwanted Sound: Check gain and level settings on the MG-100. Ensure no unwanted effects are active. If using batteries, check battery level.
• Pedal Not Responding: Ensure the expression pedal is calibrated correctly. Check if the pedal is assigned to the desired module.