DigiTech TRIO Band Creator Pedal User Manual

Introduction

The DigiTech TRIO Band Creator Pedal is an innovative device designed to automatically generate bass and drum parts that complement your guitar playing. It listens to your chords and rhythm, then creates a virtual band to accompany you. This manual provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting your TRIO pedal.

The TRIO offers seven distinct music genres and twelve song styles within each genre, allowing for versatile musical accompaniment. It supports both 3/4 and 4/4 time signatures.

Product Overview

Figure 1: DigiTech TRIO Band Creator Pedal Front Panel. This image displays the pedal's layout, including the Genre, Style, Tempo, Bass, and Drums knobs, the footswitch, and various LED indicators and input/output jacks.

The TRIO pedal features a robust design with intuitive controls. Key components include:

• Genre Knob: Selects one of seven music genres (Blues, Pop, Alternative Rock, Rock, Country, R&B, Jazz).
• Style Knob: Chooses from twelve song styles within the selected genre, and also indicates 3/4 or 4/4 time signatures.
• Tempo Knob: Adjusts the playback speed of the generated band.
• Bass Knob: Controls the volume level of the generated bass line.
• Drums Knob: Controls the volume level of the generated drum track.
• Footswitch: Used for teaching the pedal your song, starting/stopping playback, and switching song parts.
• LED Indicators: Provide visual feedback for Guitar FX, Part (1, 2, 3), Alt Time, Learn, and Play status.
• Input/Output Jacks: Include Guitar In, Control In, Amp Out, Mixer Out, and Headphone Out.
• USB Port: For firmware updates.

Setup

Before using your DigiTech TRIO pedal, ensure all connections are made correctly.

1. Power Connection: Connect the included 9V DC power supply (300mA minimum) to the TRIO's power input jack. Plug the power supply into a standard AC outlet.
2. Guitar Input: Connect your guitar to the GUITAR IN jack on the TRIO pedal using a standard 1/4-inch instrument cable.
3. Output to Amplifier/Mixer:
   • For connecting to a guitar amplifier, use the AMP OUT jack. This output includes your guitar signal and is optimized for guitar amps.
   • For connecting to a mixing console, PA system, or headphones, use the MIXER OUT jack. This output provides a full-range signal suitable for these devices.
4. Headphone Output: For private practice, connect headphones to the HEADPHONE OUT jack. Adjust the headphone level using the dedicated control.
5. Optional Footswitch (DigiTech FS3X): If using an optional FS3X footswitch for extended control, connect it to the CONTROL IN jack.

Ensure all cables are securely connected before powering on your amplifier or audio system.

Operating Instructions

Basic Operation: Creating a Song

1. Select Genre: Turn the GENRE knob to choose your desired musical style (e.g., Rock, Blues, Jazz).
2. Select Style: Turn the STYLE knob to select a specific song style within the chosen genre. The LEDs around the knob indicate the style number (1-12) and the time signature (3/4 or 4/4).
3. Teach the TRIO:
   • Press the TRIO's footswitch once. The LEARN LED will illuminate red.
   • Play your guitar chords and rhythm for the first section of your song. Play clearly and consistently for 4-8 measures.
   • Press the footswitch again to stop teaching. The LEARN LED will turn off, and the PLAY LED will illuminate red. The TRIO will then generate and play the bass and drum parts based on what you played.
4. Play with the Band: Once the band starts playing, you can play along with your guitar.

Advanced Features

• Adjusting Tempo: Use the TEMPO knob to increase or decrease the speed of the generated band.
• Adjusting Bass and Drum Levels: Use the BASS and DRUMS knobs to set the individual volume levels of the bass and drum parts relative to your guitar.
• Song Parts: The TRIO can learn up to three distinct song parts. After teaching the first part, press the footswitch twice quickly to enter "Part 2" learn mode, and three times for "Part 3". You can then switch between these parts during playback by pressing the footswitch. The PART 1, 2, 3 LEDs indicate the active part.
• Alternate Time: Some styles offer an "Alternate Time" option (e.g., half-time or double-time). The ALT TIME LED will illuminate when this option is available and active.
• Guitar FX: The GUITAR FX LED indicates if the TRIO is applying a subtle guitar effect (e.g., compression, chorus) to your signal, which is often genre-dependent.
• Using the FS3X Footswitch: The optional DigiTech FS3X footswitch provides hands-free control over various functions, such as cycling through song parts, stopping/starting playback, and more. Refer to the FS3X manual for detailed usage.

Maintenance

Proper care will ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your DigiTech TRIO pedal.

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the pedal's exterior. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, solvents, or waxes, as these can damage the finish and internal components.
• Storage: When not in use for extended periods, store the pedal in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Power Supply: Always use the specified 9V DC power supply. Using an incorrect power supply can damage the unit and void the warranty.
• Connections: Periodically check all cable connections for wear and tear. Replace damaged cables to prevent signal loss or short circuits.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your TRIO pedal, refer to the following common problems and solutions:

Specifications

Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official DigiTech website or contact their customer service department. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for any warranty claims.

You can often find additional resources, FAQs, and firmware updates on the manufacturer's support pages.