1. Introduction
The Electro-Harmonix Superego+ is a sophisticated synth engine and multi-effects pedal designed to create synth effects, sound layers, glissandos, and infinite sustain. It expands upon the original Superego platform by integrating a comprehensive effects section with 11 distinct effect types, an expression pedal input for parameter control, and an external jack for a 3-button controller. This manual provides detailed instructions for setup, operation, and maintenance of your Superego+ pedal.
2. Setup
2.1 Power Connection
The Superego+ requires a 9.6V DC-200mA AC Adaptor for operation. This adapter is included with your pedal. Connect the output of the AC adapter to the 9V power jack located on the side of the pedal. Ensure the adapter is properly seated to prevent power interruptions.
Image: Side view of the Superego+ pedal, highlighting the 9V power input.
2.2 Audio Connections
Connect your instrument (e.g., guitar, bass, keyboard) to the INPUT jack using a standard 1/4-inch instrument cable. Connect the OUTPUT jack to your amplifier or next effect pedal in the signal chain. The Superego+ also features a dedicated effects loop with SEND and RETURN jacks, allowing external effects to be integrated into the frozen signal path.
Image: Angled view of the Superego+ pedal, illustrating the various audio input/output and control jacks.
3. Controls and Indicators
The Superego+ features a range of knobs, footswitches, and jacks for comprehensive control over its synth engine and multi-effects. Refer to the image below for a visual guide to the controls.
Image: Top view of the Superego+ pedal, displaying all control elements.
3.1 Knobs
- DRY: Controls the volume of your original, unprocessed instrument signal.
- EFFECT: Adjusts the volume of the processed synth or effect signal.
- ATTACK: Determines how quickly the synth layer fades in after a note is played.
- DECAY: Controls how quickly the synth layer fades out after a note is released.
- THRESHOLD: Sets the input level required to trigger the synth engine. Higher settings require louder input.
- LAYER: Adjusts the volume of additional synth layers when multiple notes are frozen.
- GLISS: Controls the speed of the glissando (pitch slide) between frozen notes.
- RATE: Controls the speed or rate of the selected modulation effect.
- DEPTH: Controls the intensity or depth of the selected modulation effect.
3.2 Footswitches
- MODE: Cycles through the four Freeze modes: Moment, Sustain, Auto, and Latch.
- EFFECT: Engages or disengages the selected built-in effect.
- BYPASS: Toggles the overall effect of the Superego+ on or off.
3.3 Jacks
- INPUT: 1/4-inch instrument input.
- OUTPUT: 1/4-inch main audio output.
- SEND: 1/4-inch output for the effects loop.
- RETURN: 1/4-inch input for the effects loop.
- EXP: 1/4-inch input for an expression pedal to control various parameters.
- EXT: 1/4-inch input for a 3-button external controller.
3.4 LEDs
- MODE LEDs (AUTO, MOMENT, LATCH): Indicate the currently active Freeze mode.
- EFFECT LED: Illuminates when the built-in effect section is active.
- BYPASS LED: Illuminates when the pedal is active (effect on).
4. Operating Modes (Freeze Modes)
The Superego+ offers four distinct Freeze modes, plus a Live Effects mode, accessible via the MODE footswitch.
- Moment: Freezes the current sound for as long as the EFFECT footswitch is held down. Releasing the footswitch ends the freeze.
- Sustain: Freezes the sound with a single tap of the EFFECT footswitch. Tapping again ends the freeze.
- Auto: Automatically freezes the sound when a note or chord is played and sustains it until a new note or chord is played.
- Latch: Freezes the sound with a single tap and holds it indefinitely until tapped again.
- Live Effects Mode: In this mode, the internal synth engine is disabled, and the dry signal is routed through the built-in effects section. This allows the Superego+ to function purely as a multi-effects unit for your live signal.
5. Built-in Effects Section
The Superego+ includes 11 selectable effects that can be applied to the frozen sound or the live signal in Live Effects mode. Use the central rotary switch to select an effect type. The RATE and DEPTH knobs control parameters specific to the selected effect.
- DETUNE: Creates a subtle pitch detuning effect. EXP pedal controls pitch.
- DELAY: Produces a warm, analog-style delay. EXP pedal controls delay time (up to 2 seconds).
- ECHO: Generates a pristine digital delay. EXP pedal controls delay time (up to 2 seconds).
- FLANGE: Offers a flanging effect with filter matrix, rate, and feedback control. EXP pedal controls rate.
- PHASE: Provides a Small Stone-style phase shifting effect with rate and depth control. EXP controls rate.
- MOD: A pitch-based vibrato or chorus effect. EXP controls rate.
- ROTARY: Simulates a rotary speaker sound. Depth controls tweeter/horn balance. EXP pedal controls rate.
- TREM 1: A sine wave tremolo effect. EXP controls rate.
- TREM 2: A square wave tremolo effect. EXP controls rate.
- PITCH: Shifts pitch over a +/- one octave range. EXP controls whammy effect.
- FILTER: A resonant low-pass filter. EXP pedal controls frequency.
6. Expression Pedal and External Control
6.1 Expression Pedal (EXP)
Connect a standard expression pedal to the EXP jack to dynamically control various effect parameters. The specific parameter controlled by the expression pedal varies depending on the selected built-in effect, as noted in Section 5.
6.2 External Controller (EXT)
The EXT jack allows connection of a 3-button external controller for enhanced functionality, such as preset recall or additional parameter control. Refer to the Electro-Harmonix website or specific external controller documentation for compatibility and usage details.
7. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | SUPEREGO PLUS |
| Power Source | 9.6V DC-200mA AC Adaptor (included) |
| Voltage | 9.6 Volts |
| Signal Format | Analog |
| Hardware Interface | 1/4-inch Audio |
| Item Weight | 1.03 Kilograms (2.27 pounds) |
| Product Dimensions | 5.75"L x 4.75"W x 2.5"H (approx. 14.6 x 12.1 x 6.35 cm) |
8. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Superego+, please review the following common troubleshooting steps:
- No Sound: Ensure all cables are securely connected. Check the power adapter connection. Verify that the BYPASS footswitch LED is illuminated, indicating the pedal is active. Test with different cables and a different power outlet.
- Unexpected Behavior: Reset the pedal by disconnecting and reconnecting power. Ensure all knobs are set to desired positions. If using an expression pedal or external controller, ensure it is compatible and correctly connected.
- Effect Not Engaging: Check if the EFFECT footswitch LED is illuminated. Ensure the EFFECT knob is turned up.
- Weak or Distorted Sound: Check your instrument's output level and amplifier settings. Ensure the DRY and EFFECT knobs are balanced appropriately.
If problems persist, contact Electro-Harmonix customer support for further assistance.
9. Warranty and Support
Electro-Harmonix products are designed for reliability and performance. For information regarding warranty coverage, product registration, or technical support, please visit the official Electro-Harmonix website or contact their customer service department. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.
