1. Introduction
The Walrus Audio SLOER Stereo Ambient Reverb builds upon the popular Slö lineup, introducing enhanced features for creating immersive and expansive soundscapes. This pedal offers two additional reverb algorithms, comprehensive stereo width control, two new modulation wave shapes, and the ability to manipulate the sample rate for unique textural effects. With its versatile controls and three onboard preset slots, the SLOER allows musicians to craft lush, modulated, sleepy, and ambient tones with unprecedented depth and width.
2. Key Features
- Five distinct Reverb Algorithms: Dark (Lower Octave), Rise (Ambient Swell), Dream (Latching Pad), Rain (Delay Tap Diffusion), and Light (High Octave Shimmer).
- Five selectable Modulation Wave Shapes for the reverb trail.
- Three onboard Preset Slots for saving and recalling your favorite settings.
- Adjustable Stereo Width control (Wide, Medium, Narrow).
- Unique 'Stretch' sliders for sample rate manipulation and textural effects.
- Durable Die Cast Enclosure.
- True Bypass switching.
3. Product Overview and Controls
Familiarize yourself with the layout and functions of the Walrus Audio SLOER pedal:
Figure 3.1: Front view of the Walrus Audio SLOER pedal, showing all controls and jacks.
Figure 3.2: Rear view of the Walrus Audio SLOER pedal, highlighting the input/output jacks and power input.
Controls:
- DECAY Knob: Controls the length of the reverb trail. Turn clockwise for longer, more expansive decays.
- FILTER Knob: Adjusts the tone of the reverb. Turn clockwise for a brighter reverb sound, counter-clockwise for a darker, warmer tone.
- DEPTH Knob: Controls the intensity or amount of modulation applied to the reverb trail.
- MIX Knob: Blends the wet (effected) signal with the dry (unaffected) signal. Fully counter-clockwise is dry signal only, fully clockwise is wet signal only.
- WIDTH Toggle Switch: Selects the stereo image width: Wide for a broad stereo field, Medium for a balanced spread, and Narrow for a more focused, almost mono-like output.
- STRETCH Sliders: These two sliders allow for manipulation of the reverb's texture and decay characteristics, potentially affecting sample rate or granular aspects of the sound. Experiment to discover unique ambient textures.
- MODE Rotary Dial: Selects between the five distinct reverb algorithms. This dial also serves a secondary function for selecting modulation wave shapes.
- BYPASS Footswitch: Toggles the effect on and off. The associated LED indicates the pedal's active status.
- SUSTAIN Footswitch: Engages a momentary or latching sustain function, allowing the reverb trail to hold indefinitely for ambient pads. The associated LED indicates the sustain status.
- PRESET LED: Indicates the currently active preset.
4. Setup
Follow these steps to set up your Walrus Audio SLOER pedal:
- Power Connection: Connect a standard 9V DC power supply (center-negative, 300mA minimum) to the power input jack on the rear of the pedal. Ensure the power supply meets these specifications to prevent damage.
- Input Connection: Connect your instrument (e.g., guitar) or the output of a preceding pedal to the IN MONO (L) jack for mono input. For stereo input, connect the left channel to IN MONO (L) and the right channel to IN STEREO (R).
- Output Connection: Connect the OUT MONO (L) jack to your amplifier or the next pedal in your signal chain for mono output. For stereo output, connect the left channel to OUT MONO (L) and the right channel to OUT STEREO (R).
- Placement: Place the pedal on a stable surface or integrate it into your pedalboard.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1. Reverb Modes
The MODE rotary dial allows you to select from five distinct reverb algorithms:
- Dark: Adds a lower octave to the reverb trail, creating a deep, ominous atmosphere.
- Rise: Produces an ambient swell effect, where the reverb fades in gradually, perfect for cinematic textures.
- Dream: A latching pad mode that sustains the reverb indefinitely, allowing for continuous ambient drones.
- Rain: Utilizes a delay tap diffusion technique to create a unique, scattered, and evolving reverb sound.
- Light: Introduces a high octave shimmer to the reverb, adding bright, ethereal harmonics.
5.2. Modulation Wave Shapes
The MODE rotary dial also has a secondary function for selecting five different wave shapes for the modulation applied to the reverb trail. To access these, typically you would hold down a footswitch (e.g., Bypass) while turning the MODE dial. Refer to the quick start guide for the exact combination. The wave shapes influence the character of the modulation, from smooth and undulating to choppy and erratic.
5.3. Presets
The SLOER features three onboard preset slots to save and recall your favorite settings:
- Saving a Preset: To save your current settings to a preset slot, simultaneously press and hold down both the BYPASS and SUSTAIN footswitches until the PRESET LED blinks, indicating the save is complete. The pedal will save to the next available slot or overwrite the current one depending on the specific firmware.
- Recalling Presets: To scroll through and recall saved presets, simultaneously press and release both the BYPASS and SUSTAIN footswitches. The PRESET LED will change to indicate the active preset.
5.4. Sustain Function
The SUSTAIN footswitch offers dynamic control over the reverb trail:
- Momentary Sustain: Press and hold the SUSTAIN footswitch to momentarily latch the reverb trail. Release to return to normal decay.
- Latching Sustain: A quick tap of the SUSTAIN footswitch can engage a latching sustain, keeping the reverb trail active until tapped again.
6. Maintenance
To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Walrus Audio SLOER pedal:
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the pedal's exterior. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Storage: Store the pedal in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Power: Always use the specified 9V DC center-negative power supply. Disconnect power when not in use for extended periods.
- Jacks: Keep input and output jacks free of dust and debris.
7. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your SLOER pedal, consider the following:
- No Sound:
- Check all cable connections (instrument, amplifier, power).
- Ensure the power supply is correctly connected and providing the correct voltage (9V DC) and polarity (center-negative).
- Verify the pedal is engaged (Bypass LED is on).
- Check the MIX knob; if it's fully counter-clockwise, you will only hear the dry signal.
- Unexpected Noise/Hum:
- Ensure you are using a regulated power supply designed for guitar pedals.
- Check for faulty cables.
- Test the pedal in a different power outlet or location to rule out electrical interference.
- Controls Not Responding:
- Disconnect and reconnect power to reset the pedal.
- Ensure no debris is obstructing the knobs or switches.
If problems persist, please contact Walrus Audio customer support for further assistance.
8. Specifications
| Model Number | 900-1082BK |
| Dimensions | 3.86 x 4.72 x 2.32 inches |
| Item Weight | 13.7 ounces (389 Grams) |
| Power Source | Corded Electric (9V DC, Center-Negative, 300mA minimum) |
| Hardware Interface | 1/4-inch Audio Jacks |
| Signal Format | Analog |
| Color | Black |
9. Warranty and Support
Walrus Audio products are built with quality and durability in mind. For specific warranty information, including coverage details and duration, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Walrus Audio website. For technical support, troubleshooting assistance beyond this manual, or service inquiries, please contact Walrus Audio customer support directly through their official channels.
No official product videos were available for embedding based on the provided data.
