1. Introduction
The Xvive V21 Echoman is a vintage pure analog delay pedal designed for guitarists seeking classic delay tones. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your V21 Echoman pedal.
2. Key Features
- Pure Analog Delay: Delivers warm, authentic analog delay tones.
- Modulation: Features a CHORUS/VIBRATO switch to add modulation to the delay repeats.
- BBD Chips: Built with two re-issued BBD MN3005 bucket-brigade delay chips.
- Extended Delay Time: Offers up to 600 milliseconds of delay.
- True Bypass: Ensures signal integrity when the effect is disengaged.
- Blend Control: Allows adjustment from dry signal only to fully wet (delayed) signal.
- Dynamic Range: Internal voltage-doubling provides enhanced dynamic range and headroom.
- Compact Design: Small footprint suitable for various pedalboard setups.
Image: The Xvive V21 Echoman pedal, designed by Howard Davis.
3. Controls and Connections
Image: Overview of the Xvive V21 Echoman pedal's controls.
3.1. Control Knobs
- TIME: Adjusts the delay time, from short slap-back to up to 600ms.
- BLEND: Controls the mix between the dry (unaffected) signal and the wet (delayed) signal. Turn counter-clockwise for more dry signal, clockwise for more wet signal.
- MODULATION: Adjusts the intensity or depth of the chorus/vibrato modulation applied to the delay repeats.
- FEEDBACK: Determines the number of delay repeats. Higher settings result in more repeats, potentially leading to self-oscillation.
3.2. Switches and Jacks
- CHORUS/VIBRATO Switch: Toggles between chorus and vibrato modulation types for the delay repeats.
- BYPASS Footswitch: Engages or disengages the effect. When disengaged, the pedal operates in True Bypass mode.
- IN Jack: 1/4-inch input for connecting your instrument or preceding effects pedal.
- OUT Jack: 1/4-inch output for connecting to an amplifier or subsequent effects pedal.
- DC 9V Power Input: Connects to a standard 9V DC power supply (center negative).
4. Setup
- Power Connection: Connect a standard 9V DC (center negative) power adapter to the DC 9V input jack. The pedal does not operate on batteries.
- Input Connection: Connect your guitar or the output of a previous effect pedal to the IN jack of the V21 Echoman using a standard 1/4-inch instrument cable.
- Output Connection: Connect the OUT jack of the V21 Echoman to your amplifier's input or the input of the next effect pedal in your signal chain using a standard 1/4-inch instrument cable.
- Initial Settings: For first use, set the TIME, MODULATION, and FEEDBACK knobs to their minimum positions (fully counter-clockwise). Set the BLEND knob to the 12 o'clock position.
Image: The compact size of the V21 Echoman pedal, suitable for various setups.
5. Operating Instructions
Once the pedal is connected and powered, press the BYPASS footswitch to engage the effect (the LED indicator will illuminate). Adjust the control knobs to achieve your desired delay sound.
- Adjusting Delay Time: Use the TIME knob to set the duration between the original signal and the first repeat.
- Controlling Repeats: The FEEDBACK knob controls how many times the delay repeats. Lower settings produce fewer repeats, while higher settings create a longer, more ambient trail. Extreme settings can lead to self-oscillation for experimental sounds.
- Mixing Dry and Wet Signals: The BLEND knob allows you to balance the original signal with the delayed signal. Turn it clockwise to increase the presence of the delay effect.
- Adding Modulation: Engage the CHORUS/VIBRATO switch to introduce modulation to the delay repeats. Use the MODULATION knob to control the intensity of this effect. Experiment with both chorus and vibrato settings to find the desired texture.
Image: The V21 Echoman offers lush chorus and vibrato modulation for delay repeats.
Image: The V21 Echoman provides up to 600ms of delay without aliasing distortion.
6. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the pedal's exterior. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Storage: Store the pedal in a dry environment, away from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight.
- Power Supply: Always use a regulated 9V DC center-negative power supply to prevent damage. Disconnect power when not in use for extended periods.
- Cable Connections: Ensure all cables are securely connected and in good condition to prevent signal loss or noise.
7. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No sound when pedal is engaged. | Incorrect power supply, faulty cables, or incorrect connections. | Verify power supply is 9V DC center-negative and properly connected. Check all instrument cables for damage and ensure they are securely plugged into the IN and OUT jacks. |
| Unwanted noise or hum. | Unregulated power supply, ground loop, or interference from other equipment. | Use a high-quality, regulated power supply. Try isolating the pedal's power or using a power conditioner. Ensure proper grounding for all audio equipment. |
| Delay effect is too subtle or too dominant. | BLEND knob setting is incorrect. | Adjust the BLEND knob to achieve the desired mix between dry and wet signals. |
| Modulation effect is not present or too intense. | MODULATION knob or CHORUS/VIBRATO switch setting is incorrect. | Ensure the CHORUS/VIBRATO switch is in the desired position and adjust the MODULATION knob to control the intensity. |
8. Specifications
- Model: Xvive V21 Echoman
- Effect Type: Analog Delay with Modulation (Chorus/Vibrato)
- Delay Time: Up to 600ms
- Bypass: True Bypass
- Input/Output: 1/4 inch audio jack
- Signal Format: Analog
- Power Requirement: 9V DC (center negative, power adapter not included)
- Material: Metal, Plastic
- Item Weight: 10.1 ounces (approx. 0.29 kg)
- Package Dimensions: 5.31 x 3.27 x 2.36 inches
- Color: Black, Silver
- Date First Available: September 1, 2019
9. Warranty and Support
Xvive products are designed for reliability and performance. This product typically comes with a one (1) year limited warranty from the date of purchase, covering defects in materials and workmanship. For warranty claims, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the official Xvive website or contact your authorized dealer. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty validation.
