Introduction
The Walrus Audio MAKO Series ACS1 is an advanced amp and cab simulator pedal designed to provide a wide range of classic amplifier tones and cabinet simulations directly to your sound system or recording interface. This manual will guide you through the features, setup, operation, and maintenance of your ACS1 pedal.
Figure 1: Front view of the Walrus Audio MAKO Series ACS1 pedal, showcasing its control knobs and footswitches.
Setup
Power Requirements
The ACS1 requires a standard 9VDC power supply with a minimum of 300mA, center-negative polarity. Ensure your power supply meets these specifications to prevent damage to the unit.
Figure 2: Rear view of the ACS1 showing the 9VDC power input, USB port, headphone jack, and mono/stereo outputs.
Connections
- Input (Mono/Stereo): Connect your instrument or the output of other pedals to the input jack(s). For mono operation, use the MONO IN jack. For stereo, use both STEREO IN and MONO IN.
- Output (Mono/Stereo): Connect the ACS1 to your amplifier, mixer, or audio interface. For mono output, use the MONO OUT jack. For stereo, use both MONO OUT and STEREO OUT.
- Headphone Output: A dedicated 3.5mm stereo jack for silent practice.
- USB Port: Used for firmware updates and loading custom Impulse Responses (IRs) via a computer.
- MIDI IN/THRU: For external MIDI control of the pedal's functions and presets.
Figure 3: Input jacks (Mono and Stereo).
Figure 4: MIDI IN and THRU ports.
Operating Instructions
Controls Overview
The ACS1 features a comprehensive set of controls to shape your tone.
Figure 5: Detailed view of the ACS1 control panel.
- BASS, MID, TREB: Three-band EQ controls to adjust the low, mid, and high frequencies of your tone.
- VOL: Controls the overall output volume of the pedal.
- GAIN: Adjusts the amount of overdrive and distortion, simulating the gain stage of an amplifier.
- ROOM: Controls the amount of simulated room reverb, from a dry, isolated sound to a large studio environment.
- AMP Toggle Switch (Fullerton, London, Dartford): Selects one of three iconic amplifier models.
- Fullerton: Inspired by classic American clean amps.
- London: Based on British rock amplifiers.
- Dartford: Emulates a chimey, British-voiced amp.
- CAB Toggle Switch (A, B, C): Selects one of three cabinet impulse responses (IRs). These can be customized via USB.
- L+R Toggle Switch: Determines how the amp and cab models are applied in stereo.
- L: Applies the selected amp/cab to the left channel only.
- R: Applies the selected amp/cab to the right channel only.
- +: Applies the selected amp/cab to both left and right channels.
- BYPASS Footswitch: Toggles the effect on/off.
- BOOST Footswitch: Activates a preset boost in volume and/or gain.
- PRESET Button: Cycles through onboard presets. The ACS1 stores 3 onboard presets (128 via MIDI).
Saving Presets
To save a preset, adjust the controls to your desired settings. Press and hold the PRESET button until the LED flashes, indicating the preset has been saved.
Stereo Operation
The ACS1 allows for flexible stereo routing. You can run the same amp model through both channels or assign different amp models to each channel using the L+R toggle switch and separate settings for each side.
Maintenance
Cleaning
To clean the pedal, use a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents, as these can damage the finish and internal components.
Firmware Updates
Walrus Audio periodically releases firmware updates to enhance features and improve performance. Connect the ACS1 to your computer via the USB port and visit the Walrus Audio website for instructions and software to perform updates. Keeping your firmware updated ensures optimal performance and access to the latest features.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No sound output. | Incorrect power supply, incorrect cable connections, pedal in bypass mode, volume knob set to zero. |
|
| Distorted or unwanted noise. | Excessive GAIN setting, incompatible power supply, ground loop. |
|
| Pedal not responding to MIDI. | Incorrect MIDI cable connection, incorrect MIDI channel, MIDI settings not configured. |
|
Specifications
- Model: ACS1
- Item Model Number: 900-1057
- Brand: Walrus Audio
- Power Requirement: 9VDC, 300mA, Center-Negative
- Dimensions: 570.87 x 452.76 x 295.28 inches (Note: This dimension seems unusually large for a pedal and might be a packaging dimension. Refer to manufacturer's official product page for exact pedal dimensions.)
- Item Weight: 0.018 ounces (Note: This weight seems unusually low for a pedal and might be an error. Refer to manufacturer's official product page for exact pedal weight.)
- Connectivity: Mono/Stereo Input, Mono/Stereo Output, Headphone Output, USB, MIDI IN/THRU
- Features: 3 Amp Models, 3 Cab IRs (expandable), 3 Onboard Presets (128 via MIDI), 3-Band EQ, Room Reverb, Boost Function.
Warranty and Support
For warranty information, technical support, or further assistance with your Walrus Audio MAKO Series ACS1, please visit the official Walrus Audio website or contact their customer support directly. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
