Electro-Harmonix SYNTH9 Synthesizer Machine Pedal User Manual

1. Introduction

The Electro-Harmonix SYNTH9 Synthesizer Machine Pedal is a versatile effect unit designed to transform your guitar or bass into a vintage synthesizer. It offers nine distinct synthesizer presets, allowing musicians to explore a wide range of classic synth sounds without the need for special pickups, MIDI implementation, or instrument modifications. This manual provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your SYNTH9 pedal.

Figure 1: Front view of the Electro-Harmonix SYNTH9 Synthesizer Machine Pedal.

2. Key Features

• Nine presets emulating popular vintage synthesizer sounds.
• Compatible with both guitar and bass instruments.
• No special pickups or MIDI required for operation.
• Usable tracking range up to the 23rd fret on a standard guitar's high-E string and down to the open A-string on a bass guitar.
• Can be combined with other Electro-Harmonix pedals (e.g., B9, C9, KEY9, MEL9) for expanded sonic possibilities.

3. Setup

Follow these steps to properly set up your SYNTH9 pedal:

1. Power Connection: Connect a 9V DC power adapter (center-positive) to the power input jack on the pedal. The SYNTH9 requires a 9V power source.


Figure 2: Rear view showing the 9V power input jack.

2. Input Connection: Connect your instrument (guitar or bass) to the INPUT jack on the right side of the pedal using a standard 1/4-inch instrument cable.
3. Output Connection: Connect the SYNTH OUTPUT jack on the left side of the pedal to your amplifier or next effect pedal using a standard 1/4-inch instrument cable. If you wish to maintain your dry instrument signal, connect the DRY OUTPUT jack to a separate amplifier or mixer.


Figure 3: Side view illustrating input and output connections.

4. Activation: Press the footswitch to activate or bypass the SYNTH9 effect. The LED indicator will illuminate when the effect is active.

4. Operating Instructions

The SYNTH9 features intuitive controls for selecting and shaping its nine unique synthesizer sounds. Refer to the video demonstration below for an auditory guide to each preset.

4.1. Controls Overview

• DRY Knob: Controls the volume of your dry instrument signal.
• SYNTH Knob: Controls the volume of the selected synthesizer effect.
• PRESET Selector: A rotary switch to select one of the nine synthesizer presets.
• CTRL 1 Knob: A multi-function control that varies depending on the selected preset.
• CTRL 2 Knob: A multi-function control that varies depending on the selected preset.

4.2. Presets Description

Each preset offers unique sonic characteristics and dedicated CTRL 1 and CTRL 2 functions:

1. OBX: A classic multi-voice synth sound. CTRL 1 acts as a tone control, and CTRL 2 is a four-octave selector. (Demonstrated in Video 1 from 0:53)
2. PROFIT V: Inspired by the famous analog synthesizers of the 1980s. CTRL 1 is an envelope filter control, and CTRL 2 changes the intervals of the top synthesizer voice. (Demonstrated in Video 1 from 1:38)
3. VIBE SYNTH: A synth sound with a delayed vibrato effect. (Demonstrated in Video 1 from 2:28)
4. MINI MOOD: Features the classic portamento sound that glides from note to note. CTRL 1 controls the volume for the glide voice, and CTRL 2 controls the speed of the glide. (Demonstrated in Video 1 from 9:02)
5. EHX MINI: A classic EHX Mini synth with a four-octave range and a reversible envelope filter. Twin resonant filters produce a deep, nasty growl. (Demonstrated in Video 1 from 8:06)
6. SOLO SYNTH: A combination of a square wave guitar and a four-octave synthesizer. CTRL 1 is a high-end tone control, and CTRL 2 controls the octave of the synth section. (Demonstrated in Video 1 from 5:16)
7. MOOD BASS: Produces a fat, three-octave bass synth sound. CTRL 1 controls the envelope filter, and CTRL 2 is the octave selector. (Demonstrated in Video 1 from 3:02)
8. STRING SYNTH: Creates a classic analog string emulation. CTRL 1 is a high-end tone control, and CTRL 2 is an envelope control that allows the strings to fade in after you pick. (Demonstrated in Video 1 from 4:15)
9. POLY VI: An analog synth sound with a sweeping filter and deep modulation. CTRL 1 is a tone control, and CTRL 2 controls the modulation depth. (Demonstrated in Video 1 from 6:32)

5. Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your SYNTH9 pedal, follow these maintenance guidelines:

• Keep the pedal clean by wiping it with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
• Store the pedal in a dry environment, away from extreme temperatures and humidity.
• Avoid dropping the pedal or subjecting it to strong impacts.
• Ensure all cable connections are secure before and during use.

6. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your SYNTH9 pedal, try the following troubleshooting steps:

• No Sound: Check all cable connections (input, output, power). Ensure your instrument and amplifier are working correctly. Verify the pedal is receiving power and the LED is illuminated when active.
• Weak or Distorted Sound: Check your instrument's output level and the SYNTH9's DRY and SYNTH knob settings. Ensure your amplifier's input is not overdriven.
• Incorrect Synth Sound: Verify the PRESET selector is set to your desired sound. Adjust CTRL 1 and CTRL 2 knobs as they significantly alter the sound of each preset.
• Tracking Issues: Ensure your instrument's intonation is correct. The SYNTH9 tracks best with clean, single notes or chords. Excessive string noise or sloppy playing can affect tracking accuracy.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty Information

Electro-Harmonix products are covered by a limited warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. For specific warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Electro-Harmonix website.

9. Customer Support

For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or service inquiries, please contact Electro-Harmonix customer support through their official website or the contact information provided in your product packaging.