NUX Cerberus Multi-function Guitar Effect Pedal Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

The NUX Cerberus is a multi-function guitar effect pedal designed to provide a comprehensive suite of effects for guitarists. It integrates analog overdrive and distortion with digital modulation, delay, and reverb effects, along with an IR loader and MIDI control capabilities. This manual provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your Cerberus pedal.

2. Key Features

• Multi-effects pedal with standalone operation or 4-cable method connectivity.
• Includes Inside Routing, IR loader, Analog Overdrive, Distortion, and Digital Effects.
• MIDI control for integrating with other effect pedals.
• 16 effects and 128 presets (32 banks x 4 presets).
• Integrated loop switcher, kill dry function, 0 to 20dB volume boost, and an accurate tuner.

3. Controls and Connections

Familiarize yourself with the layout of your Cerberus pedal. The following diagrams and descriptions detail the various controls and connection points.

Figure 3.1: Front Panel Overview
This image displays the top view of the NUX Cerberus pedal, showcasing its various control knobs, switches, and footswitches for Delay, Modulation, Distortion, and Drive effects, along with global settings and routing options.

3.1 Front Panel Controls

• Delay Section: Includes Time, Repeat, Decay, and Level knobs. Switches allow selection between 70's, 60's, 80's, Spring (SPR), Plate (PLA), and Hall (HAL) delay/reverb types.
• Modulation Section: Features Rate, Depth, and Level knobs. Selectable modulation effects include Chorus (CE), Tremolo (TR), Phaser (PH), Step (ST), and U-Vibe (UV).
• Distortion Section: Analog distortion with Gain, Tone, and Level controls.
• Drive Section: Analog overdrive with Drive, Tone, and Level controls.
• Global Controls: Routing switches (Kill Dry, Cab, Dist, OD), Save/Exit buttons, and a small display screen.
• Footswitches (A, B, C, D, TAP/CTRL): Used for engaging/bypassing effects, changing presets, and accessing the tuner.

Figure 3.2: Delay Section Detail
A detailed view of the Delay section on the Cerberus pedal, highlighting the Time, Repeat, Decay, and Level knobs, along with the delay type selection switches (70's, 60's, 80's, SPR, PLA, HAL).

Figure 3.3: Drive and Distortion Section Detail
This image focuses on the analog Drive and Distortion sections of the Cerberus pedal, showing the Gain, Tone, and Level knobs for Distortion, and the Drive, Tone, and Level knobs for Overdrive, along with their respective footswitches.

3.2 Rear Panel Connections

Figure 3.4: Rear Panel Overview
The rear panel of the NUX Cerberus, illustrating all connection ports including Expression Pedal input, Overdrive/Distortion Input/Output, USB, MIDI In/Out, Modulation/Delay/Reverb Input, Output 1, Output 2, Phones output, and DC 9V power input.

• EXP. PEDAL: Input for an external expression pedal.
• OVERDRIVE/DISTORTION INPUT/OUTPUT: Connect your guitar and amplifier for the analog drive section. Includes a BOOST switch (0dB / 20dB) and a LIFT/GND switch.
• USB: For connecting to a computer for firmware updates and software editing.
• MIDI INPUT/OUTPUT: For MIDI control of the unit or other MIDI-compatible devices.
• MODULATION/DELAY/REVERB INPUT: Input for the digital effects section.
• OUTPUT 1 / OUTPUT 2: Stereo outputs for the digital effects.
• PHONES: Headphone output for silent practice.
• DC 9V 500mA: Power input for the included adapter.
• POWER: On/Off switch.

Figure 3.5: Rear Panel Connections Detail
A closer look at the rear connections of the Cerberus pedal, specifically showing the USB port, MIDI In/Out, and the stereo outputs for Modulation/Delay/Reverb, along with the power input.

Figure 3.6: Side View with Connections
This image provides a side perspective of the Cerberus pedal, emphasizing the various input and output jacks for connecting to other gear, including the expression pedal and the analog drive section.

4. Setup

Follow these steps to set up your NUX Cerberus pedal:

1. Power Connection: Connect the included 9V DC power adapter to the DC 9V input on the rear panel. Ensure the power adapter meets the specified requirements (500mA).
2. Guitar Connection: Connect your guitar to the OVERDRIVE/DISTORTION INPUT.
3. Amplifier Connection: Connect the OVERDRIVE/DISTORTION OUTPUT to your amplifier's input. For stereo digital effects, connect OUTPUT 1 and OUTPUT 2 to separate amplifier inputs or a mixer.
4. 4-Cable Method (Optional): For advanced routing, refer to Section 6.1 for instructions on integrating the Cerberus with your amplifier's effects loop.
5. Expression Pedal (Optional): Connect an external expression pedal to the EXP. PEDAL input for real-time control over parameters.
6. MIDI Connections (Optional): If using MIDI, connect MIDI cables to the MIDI INPUT and/or OUTPUT ports.

Figure 4.1: Example Connection Setup
An illustrative image showing the NUX Cerberus pedal integrated into a guitar rig, with connections to a guitar and an amplifier, highlighting its role in a signal chain.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Power On/Off

Press the POWER button on the rear panel to turn the unit on or off.

5.2 Modes of Operation

The Cerberus operates in two main modes:

• Preset Mode: Allows you to recall and switch between 128 stored presets (32 banks with 4 presets each). Use footswitches A, B, C, D to select presets within a bank.
• Manual Mode: Each footswitch directly controls its assigned effect (e.g., A for Delay/Reverb, B for Modulation).

Switching between modes is typically done by holding down specific footswitches or using the global controls. Refer to the on-screen display for current mode indication.

5.3 Effect Control

Adjust the knobs within each effect section (Delay, Modulation, Distortion, Drive) to sculpt your sound. The small display provides feedback on current settings.

5.4 Saving Presets

After adjusting your desired sound, press the SAVE button. Use the footswitches or global controls to select a preset slot, then press SAVE again to confirm. This will store your custom settings.

5.5 Tuner Function

To activate the tuner, hold down the CTRL footswitch. The display will show tuning information. Ensure your guitar is connected and producing a signal. The tuner mutes the output signal while active.

6. Advanced Functions

6.1 4-Cable Method

The 4-cable method allows you to place the analog overdrive/distortion section before your amplifier's preamp and the digital modulation/delay/reverb section in your amplifier's effects loop. This provides optimal signal flow and tone shaping.

Connection Steps:

1. Connect your guitar to the Cerberus OVERDRIVE/DISTORTION INPUT.
2. Connect the Cerberus OVERDRIVE/DISTORTION OUTPUT to your amplifier's input.
3. Connect your amplifier's FX SEND to the Cerberus MODULATION/DELAY/REVERB INPUT.
4. Connect the Cerberus OUTPUT 1 (or OUTPUT 2 for stereo) to your amplifier's FX RETURN.

6.2 IR Loader

The Cerberus includes an Impulse Response (IR) loader for cabinet simulation. This allows you to simulate the sound of various guitar cabinets, which is particularly useful when connecting directly to a PA system or audio interface. Use the dedicated software editor to load custom IRs.

6.3 MIDI Control

The Cerberus can send and receive MIDI messages, allowing it to integrate with other MIDI-compatible devices or be controlled by a MIDI foot controller. Refer to the detailed MIDI implementation chart in the full user manual for specific commands and CC numbers.

6.4 USB Connectivity and Software Editor

Connect the Cerberus to your computer via the USB port. This allows for firmware updates and access to the NUX Cerberus software editor. The software provides a graphical interface for easier preset editing, IR management, and system settings configuration. Ensure you have the latest firmware installed for optimal performance and access to all features.

7. Maintenance

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

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the pedal's surface. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Storage: Store the pedal in a dry environment, away from extreme temperatures, humidity, and direct sunlight.
• Power Supply: Always use the specified 9V DC power adapter. Using an incorrect power supply can damage the unit and void the warranty.
• Footswitches and Knobs: Operate footswitches and knobs gently. Avoid excessive force.
• Firmware Updates: Periodically check the NUX website for firmware updates to ensure your pedal has the latest features and bug fixes.

8. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Cerberus pedal, consult the following troubleshooting guide:

• No Power: Ensure the power adapter is correctly connected and plugged into a working outlet. Verify the power switch on the rear panel is in the 'ON' position.
• No Sound: Check all cable connections (guitar, amplifier, outputs). Ensure the volume knobs on the pedal, guitar, and amplifier are turned up. Verify that no effects are bypassed or set to a zero-level output.
• Unwanted Noise (e.g., High-Pitched Scream): This can sometimes be caused by ground loops or interference. Try using a different power outlet, isolating the power supply, or checking cable shielding. Ensure the LIFT/GND switch on the rear panel is set appropriately for your setup. If the issue persists, try updating the firmware via USB.
• Difficulty Programming/Editing: While the pedal can be programmed directly, using the NUX Cerberus software editor via USB can simplify the process and offer more detailed control. Ensure the latest firmware is installed, as older versions might have programming quirks.
• Tuner Issues: If the tuner is not responding or inaccurate, ensure your guitar is properly intonated and producing a clear signal. The tuner mutes the output, so ensure you are not expecting sound while tuning.
• Footswitch Malfunction: If a footswitch is unresponsive, try restarting the pedal. If the issue persists, contact NUX support.

9. Specifications

10. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, product registration, or technical support, please refer to the official NUX website or contact your authorized NUX dealer. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.