Tech 21 SansAmp PSA 2.0 Programmable Instrument Preamp Pedal User Manual

Introduction

The Tech 21 SansAmp PSA 2.0 is a programmable instrument preamp pedal designed to provide a wide range of tonal options for various instruments, including guitar, bass, and drums. This unit features all-analog circuitry for sound generation combined with digital programming and memory functions, allowing users to store and recall custom presets. This manual provides detailed instructions for the setup, operation, and maintenance of your SansAmp PSA 2.0.

Controls and Connections

Top view of Tech 21 SansAmp PSA 2.0 pedal showing all controls and footswitches.

Image Description: This image displays the top panel of the SansAmp PSA 2.0 pedal. Visible controls include eight rotary knobs labeled LEVEL, HIGH, LOW, DRIVE, CRUNCH, PUNCH, BUZZ, and GAIN. A smaller TRIM knob is also present. Three footswitches are labeled 1, 2, and 3 (DOWN, ACTIVE/SEARCH, UP). A three-digit LED display shows the current preset number. The "TECH 21 SansAmp" logo and "PSA 2.0 PROGRAMMABLE ANALOG" text are clearly visible.

Front Panel Controls:

LEVEL: Adjusts the overall output volume.
HIGH: Controls the high-frequency equalization.
LOW: Controls the low-frequency equalization.
DRIVE: Adjusts the amount of gain and overdrive.
CRUNCH: Adds a specific type of harmonic distortion, affecting the "tightness" of the sound.
PUNCH: Controls the mid-range presence and attack.
BUZZ: Introduces a high-frequency harmonic content, simulating certain amplifier characteristics.
GAIN: Provides additional input gain for the preamp section.
TRIM: Fine-tunes the input level.
Footswitches (1, 2, 3): Used for preset selection (DOWN, UP) and activating/searching presets (ACTIVE/SEARCH).
LED Display: Shows the current preset number.

Side view of Tech 21 SansAmp PSA 2.0 pedal showing the MIDI IN port.

Image Description: This image shows a side view of the SansAmp PSA 2.0 pedal, highlighting the MIDI IN port. The port is a standard 5-pin DIN connector, labeled "MIDI IN". The metallic finish of the pedal's casing is visible.

Side Panel Connections:

MIDI IN: Connects to a MIDI controller for external preset changes and control.

Rear view of Tech 21 SansAmp PSA 2.0 pedal showing IN, OUT, and DC power connections.

Image Description: This image displays the rear panel of the SansAmp PSA 2.0 pedal. It features three main connections: an "IN" jack (1/4-inch instrument input), an "OUT" jack (1/4-inch output), and a "DC" power input jack. The "TECH 21" branding is prominently displayed across the panel.

Rear Panel Connections:

IN: 1/4-inch instrument input. Connect your instrument here.
OUT: 1/4-inch output. Connect to an amplifier, mixer, or audio interface.
DC: Power input for a 9V DC power supply (center negative).

Setup

Power Connection: Connect a compatible 9V DC (center negative) power supply to the DC input jack on the rear of the pedal.
Instrument Connection: Connect your instrument (guitar, bass, etc.) to the IN jack on the rear of the pedal using a standard 1/4-inch instrument cable.
Output Connection: Connect the OUT jack to your amplifier's input, a mixer, or an audio interface using a standard 1/4-inch cable.
MIDI Connection (Optional): If using an external MIDI controller, connect it to the MIDI IN port on the side of the pedal.

Ensure all connections are secure before powering on your amplifier or audio system.

Operating Instructions

Preset Selection:

Use the DOWN footswitch (1) to decrease the preset number.
Use the UP footswitch (3) to increase the preset number.
The LED display will show the currently selected preset number.
Press the ACTIVE/SEARCH footswitch (2) to activate or bypass the selected preset.

Adjusting and Saving Presets:

Select the desired preset using the DOWN/UP footswitches.
Adjust the LEVEL, HIGH, LOW, DRIVE, CRUNCH, PUNCH, BUZZ, and GAIN knobs to achieve your desired tone. The TRIM knob can be used for fine input level adjustments.
To save your changes, press and hold the SAVE button (located above the ACTIVE/SEARCH footswitch) for approximately two seconds until the LED display flashes.
While the display is flashing, you can choose to save to the current preset location or select a new location using the DOWN/UP footswitches.
Press the SAVE button again to confirm and store the preset.

MIDI Control:

The SansAmp PSA 2.0 responds to MIDI Program Change (PC) messages. Connect a MIDI controller to the MIDI IN port. Each preset corresponds to a specific MIDI PC number, allowing for remote control and integration into larger MIDI setups. Refer to your MIDI controller's manual for sending Program Change messages.

Troubleshooting

Problem	Possible Cause	Solution
No sound output.	Incorrect connections, power issue, pedal bypassed.	Verify all cables are securely connected to the correct jacks. Ensure the power supply is connected and functional. Press the ACTIVE/SEARCH footswitch to ensure the pedal is active. Check the LEVEL knob setting.
Distorted or unwanted noise.	High gain settings, faulty cables, ground loop, incorrect power supply.	Reduce DRIVE, CRUNCH, BUZZ, or GAIN settings. Try different cables. Ensure proper grounding of all equipment. Verify the power supply is 9V DC, center negative, and provides sufficient current.
Cannot save presets.	SAVE button not held long enough, or not pressed twice.	Press and hold the SAVE button until the display flashes, then press it again to confirm.
MIDI control not working.	Incorrect MIDI connection, wrong MIDI channel, incorrect PC messages.	Ensure MIDI cable is connected to MIDI IN. Verify the MIDI controller is sending Program Change messages. Check the MIDI channel settings on your controller.

If problems persist, consult the Tech 21 support resources or contact customer service.

Model:	PSA-2.0
Dimensions:	2.76 x 7.87 x 1.18 inches
Item Weight:	12.3 ounces
Power Source:	Corded Electric (9V DC, center negative)
Voltage:	9 Volts
Connector Type:	6.35mm Jack (1/4-inch), 5-pin DIN (MIDI IN)
Signal Format:	Analog
Compatible Devices:	Guitar, Bass, Drum machines, etc.

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