Instruction Manual

Introduction

The Palmer POCKET AMP BASS (PEPAMPBASS) is a versatile, portable preamp and effects pedal designed for active and passive bass guitars. It offers extensive sound shaping capabilities, making it suitable for various applications including gigging, recording, and practice. This manual provides detailed instructions for its setup, operation, and maintenance.

Safety Information

• Read all instructions carefully before operating the device.
• Do not expose the unit to rain or moisture.
• Ensure proper ventilation; do not block any ventilation openings.
• Use only the specified power supply (9V DC, 200mA, center negative).
• Disconnect power during lightning storms or when unused for long periods.
• Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.

Package Contents

• Palmer POCKET AMP BASS (PEPAMPBASS) unit
• Instruction Manual (this document)
• Note: Power adapter is not included.

Controls and Connections

Front Panel Overview

Figure 1: Front panel of the Palmer POCKET AMP BASS, highlighting the input and output connections for instrument, headphones, and auxiliary devices.

• Bass In: 1/4" TS input jack for connecting your bass guitar.
• Normal/PAD -12dB Switch: Selects input sensitivity. Use "PAD -12dB" for active basses with high output to prevent clipping.
• Phones: 1/8" TRS stereo output jack for connecting headphones.
• Aux In: 1/8" TRS stereo input jack for connecting external audio sources like an MP3 player or smartphone for practice.
• Bass Thru: 1/4" TS output jack for sending the unprocessed bass signal directly to another amplifier or device.

Top Panel Controls

Figure 2: Top panel of the Palmer POCKET AMP BASS, displaying the various knobs and switches for tone shaping and effects.

• MODE Switch (Fuzz, O.DRIVE, CLEAN): Selects the primary sound mode.
  • CLEAN: Provides a transparent, uncolored bass tone.
  • O.DRIVE: Adds a warm, natural overdrive.
  • FUZZ: Delivers a thick, aggressive fuzz effect.
• DRIVE Knob: Adjusts the amount of gain or distortion for the O.DRIVE and FUZZ modes.
• BLEND Knob (Dry/Wet): Mixes the direct (dry) signal with the processed (wet) signal. Fully counter-clockwise is 100% dry, fully clockwise is 100% wet.
• SATURATE Knob: Controls the saturation and compression characteristics of the tone.
• VOL Knob: Adjusts the overall output volume of the unit.
• F.SW Switch (MUTE/BYPASS): Controls the footswitch function.
  • MUTE: Footswitch mutes the output.
  • BYPASS: Footswitch toggles between active effect and true bypass.
• CAB Switch (FLAT, MODERN, VINTAGE): Selects the cabinet simulation type.
  • FLAT: No cabinet simulation, providing a raw, direct sound.
  • MODERN: Simulates a modern bass cabinet with full-range response.
  • VINTAGE: Offers a warmer, more colored sound reminiscent of classic bass cabinets.
• BASS Knob: Adjusts the low-frequency response (EQ).
• LEVEL Knob (Mid EQ): Adjusts the gain/cut of the selected mid-frequency.
• FREQ Knob (Mid EQ): Selects the center frequency for the semi-parametric mid-range EQ.
• HIGHS Knob: Adjusts the high-frequency response (EQ).
• Footswitch: Engages/disengages the effect or mutes the output, depending on the F.SW setting.

Rear Panel Connections

Figure 3: Rear panel of the Palmer POCKET AMP BASS, detailing the balanced DI output, effects loop, and power input.

• DI Out (Balanced XLR): Balanced XLR output for direct connection to a mixing console or audio interface.
  • PRE/POST Switch: Determines whether the DI output signal is taken before (PRE) or after (POST) the internal effects and EQ.
  • GND/LIFT Switch: Ground lift switch to eliminate hum caused by ground loops.
• TO AMP (1/4" TS): Unbalanced 1/4" TS output for connecting to a bass amplifier.
• FX Insert (1/4" TRS): Stereo 1/4" TRS jack for connecting external effects pedals in a send/return loop. Tip is Send, Ring is Return.
• DC 9V (200mA, Center Negative): Power input jack for a 9V DC power adapter.

Setup

1. Power Connection: Connect a 9V DC, 200mA, center negative power adapter (not included) to the "DC 9V" input on the rear panel. Alternatively, the unit can be powered by a 9V battery (located in the compartment on the bottom).
2. Instrument Connection: Plug your bass guitar into the "Bass In" jack on the front panel. If using an active bass with high output, set the "Normal/PAD -12dB" switch to "PAD -12dB".
3. Output Connection:
   • For headphones: Connect headphones to the "Phones" jack.
   • For an amplifier: Connect the "TO AMP" jack to your bass amplifier's input.
   • For a mixing console/audio interface: Connect the "DI Out" XLR to the console/interface. Adjust the "PRE/POST" and "GND/LIFT" switches as needed.
4. Auxiliary Input: To play along with external audio, connect your audio source (e.g., smartphone) to the "Aux In" jack. The volume of the auxiliary input is controlled by the source device.
5. Effects Loop (Optional): To integrate external effects, connect a TRS cable from the "FX Insert" jack to your effects pedal(s). The Tip of the TRS cable is the Send, and the Ring is the Return.

Operating Instructions

The Palmer POCKET AMP BASS offers a range of controls to shape your bass tone. Experiment with the settings to find your desired sound.

Sound Modes and Drive

• Use the MODE switch to select between CLEAN, O.DRIVE, and FUZZ.
• Adjust the DRIVE knob to control the intensity of the overdrive or fuzz effect. Start with lower settings and increase gradually.
• The SATURATE knob adds harmonic richness and compression. Higher settings will increase sustain and density.
• The BLEND knob allows you to mix your original clean bass signal with the processed signal. This is particularly useful for retaining low-end clarity when using distortion effects.

Equalization (EQ)

• The BASS knob boosts or cuts low frequencies.
• The HIGHS knob boosts or cuts high frequencies.
• The mid-range EQ is semi-parametric:
  • Use the FREQ knob to select the specific mid-frequency you wish to adjust.
  • Use the LEVEL knob to boost or cut the selected mid-frequency.

Cabinet Simulation

• The CAB switch allows you to select between three different cabinet simulations:
  • FLAT: Bypasses cabinet simulation.
  • MODERN: Provides a clear, full-range sound typical of modern bass cabinets.
  • VINTAGE: Offers a warmer, more colored sound reminiscent of classic bass cabinets.

Footswitch Functionality

• Set the F.SW switch to either MUTE or BYPASS to define the footswitch's action.
• Press the footswitch to activate the selected function.

Maintenance

• Clean the unit with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Avoid exposing the unit to extreme temperatures, humidity, or direct sunlight.
• When not in use for extended periods, remove the 9V battery to prevent leakage.

Troubleshooting

Specifications

Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official Palmer website or contact your local dealer. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.

For further assistance, you may visit the Palmer Store on Amazon.