Electro-Harmonix Blurst! Modulated Filter Pedal User Manual

Introduction

The Electro-Harmonix Blurst! is a modulated filter pedal designed for guitarists and bass players. It integrates technology from keyboard and modular synthesizers to create dynamic filter effects. Unlike traditional envelope filters, the Blurst!'s filter response is controlled by an internal oscillator, offering unique sonic exploration.

Image: Front view of the Electro-Harmonix Blurst! Modulated Filter Pedal, showcasing its controls and distinctive graphic design.

Setup

Follow these steps to properly set up your Blurst! pedal:

1. Power Connection: Connect a 9V DC power adapter (center positive) to the 9V power jack on the top of the pedal. The Blurst! requires a 9V battery or a 9V DC power supply.


Image: Side view of the Blurst! pedal, highlighting the 9V power input jack.

2. Input Connection: Connect your instrument (guitar, bass, etc.) to the INPUT jack on the right side of the pedal using a standard 1/4-inch instrument cable.
3. Output Connection: Connect the OUTPUT jack on the left side of the pedal to your amplifier or the next effect pedal in your signal chain using a standard 1/4-inch instrument cable.


Image: Angled view of the Blurst! pedal, showing the input and output jacks for instrument connection.

4. Expression Pedal (Optional): For external control, connect an expression pedal or a Control Voltage (CV) source (such as the EHX 8 Step Program Analog Expression/CV Sequencer) to the EXP jack on the left side of the pedal.

Operating Instructions

The Blurst! pedal features several controls to shape your modulated filter sound:

Controls:

• VOL Knob: Controls the overall output volume of the pedal.
• BLEND Knob: Adjusts the mix between your dry (unaffected) signal and the wet (filtered) signal. Turn clockwise for more filtered sound, counter-clockwise for more dry signal.
• RESONANCE Knob: Controls the Q or peak of the filter. Higher settings create a more pronounced, resonant filter sweep.
• RATE Knob: Sets the speed of the filter modulation. This can also be controlled by the TAP footswitch.
• RANGE Knob: Determines the frequency range over which the filter modulates. Turn clockwise for a wider sweep, counter-clockwise for a narrower sweep.

Toggle Switches:

• EXP MODE Switch: Selects the parameter controlled by an external expression pedal or CV source.
  • RANGE: Expression pedal controls the filter's frequency range.
  • RATE: Expression pedal controls the modulation rate.
  • FILTER: Expression pedal controls the filter's center frequency.
• TAP DIVIDE Switch: When using the TAP footswitch to set the modulation rate, this switch divides the tapped tempo into different rhythmic values.
  • Quarter Note: Modulation rate matches the tapped tempo.
  • Dotted Eighth Note: Modulation rate is a dotted eighth note of the tapped tempo.
  • Triplet: Modulation rate is a triplet of the tapped tempo.
• SHAPE Switch: Selects the waveform shape of the internal oscillator that modulates the filter.
  • Triangle: Smooth, symmetrical modulation.
  • Rising Saw-tooth: Rapid rise, slow fall modulation.
  • Falling Saw-tooth: Slow rise, rapid fall modulation.

Footswitches:

• TAP Footswitch: Tap this footswitch two or more times to set the modulation rate. The rate will synchronize to your tapped tempo, adjusted by the TAP DIVIDE switch.
• BYPASS Footswitch: Toggles the effect on and off. When the effect is on, the LED indicator will illuminate.

Image: The Blurst! pedal with input and output cables connected, ready for operation.

Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Blurst! pedal:

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the pedal's exterior. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Storage: Store the pedal in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Battery Replacement: If using a 9V battery, replace it when the LED indicator dims or the pedal's performance degrades. To replace, remove the four screws on the bottom plate and carefully lift the plate. Disconnect the old battery and connect a new 9V battery, then reattach the bottom plate.
• Connections: Periodically check all cable connections for wear and tear. Ensure jacks are free of dust and debris.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Blurst! pedal, consider the following:

• No Sound:
  • Ensure all cables are securely connected to the input, output, and power jacks.
  • Verify the power supply is functioning correctly and providing 9V DC (center positive).
  • If using a battery, check if it needs replacement.
  • Test with different cables and a different amplifier/instrument to isolate the problem.
• Weak or Distorted Sound:
  • Check the VOL and BLEND knob settings.
  • Ensure your instrument's output level is appropriate for the pedal's input.
  • If using a battery, replace it.
• Modulation Not Working:
  • Check the RATE knob setting.
  • If using the TAP footswitch, ensure you are tapping it consistently and the TAP DIVIDE switch is set as desired.
  • Verify the SHAPE switch is set to a desired waveform.
• Expression Pedal Not Responding:
  • Ensure the expression pedal is correctly connected to the EXP jack.
  • Verify the EXP MODE switch is set to the desired parameter (RANGE, RATE, or FILTER).
  • Confirm the expression pedal is compatible and functioning correctly.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

Electro-Harmonix products are designed for reliability and performance. For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official Electro-Harmonix website or contact their customer service department.

You can also visit the Electro-Harmonix Store on Amazon for additional product information and resources.