EarthQuaker Devices Silos Multi-generational Time Reflection Delay Pedal User Manual

Introduction

The EarthQuaker Devices Silos is a versatile multi-generational time reflection delay pedal, offering Digital, Analog, and Tape delay modes. It features six assignable presets, tap tempo, and user-assignable expression control, providing a wide range of sonic possibilities for guitarists.

Safety Information

• Use only a 9V DC power supply with a center-negative polarity.
• Do not expose the pedal to moisture or extreme temperatures.
• Avoid dropping or subjecting the pedal to severe impacts.
• Disconnect power when not in use or during maintenance.

Controls and Features

The Silos pedal features intuitive controls for shaping your delay sound.

Front Panel Controls

This image displays the front panel of the Silos pedal, highlighting the main controls and footswitches.

• Time Knob: Controls the delay time, from short slap-back to long, ethereal repeats.
• Repeats Knob: Adjusts the number of delay repetitions, from a single echo to infinite feedback.
• Mix Knob: Blends the wet (effected) signal with the dry (unaffected) signal. Turn clockwise for more delay.
• Preset Knob (1-6): Selects one of the six available user presets.
• Mode Switch (D-A-T): Toggles between Digital (D), Analog (A), and Tape (T) delay modes.
• Preset Save/Recall Button: Press to recall a selected preset. Hold to save current settings to the selected preset slot.
• Tap Footswitch: Tap twice or more to set the delay time. Hold to engage momentary delay.
• Activate Footswitch: Engages or bypasses the delay effect.

Side and Rear Panel Connections

This image shows the rear panel of the Silos pedal, detailing the input, output, and power connections.

• Input Jack: Connect your instrument or the output of a previous pedal here.
• Output Jack: Connect to your amplifier or the input of the next pedal in your chain.
• 9V DC Power Input: Connect a standard 9V DC, center-negative power supply.

This image illustrates the side panel of the Silos pedal, featuring the expression pedal input.

• Expression Pedal Input: Connect an expression pedal (sold separately) to control user-assignable parameters.

Setup

1. Connect your instrument to the Silos' Input jack.
2. Connect the Silos' Output jack to your amplifier or the next pedal in your signal chain.
3. Connect a standard 9V DC, center-negative power supply to the 9V DC Power Input.
4. Ensure all connections are secure before powering on your amplifier.

This image demonstrates the Silos pedal properly connected to a guitar amplifier, ready for use.

Operating Instructions

Powering On and Engaging the Effect

Once connected, press the Activate footswitch to engage the delay effect. The corresponding LED will illuminate. Press again to bypass the effect.

Delay Modes (D-A-T)

The Mode switch allows you to select between three distinct delay types:

• D (Digital): Provides clear, pristine repeats with minimal degradation.
• A (Analog): Offers warmer, darker repeats that naturally degrade with each repetition, characteristic of classic analog delays.
• T (Tape): Emulates the sound of vintage tape echo units, featuring subtle modulation and organic decay.

This image illustrates the pedal set to Tape Mode, with an explanation of how repeats behave in this setting, building up quickly and distorting.

This image further explains the Tape Mode, noting how it creates an atmospheric soundscape after the initial discernible repeats.

Adjusting Delay Parameters

Use the Time, Repeats, and Mix knobs to fine-tune your delay sound according to the selected mode.

Presets

The Silos pedal allows you to save and recall up to six custom presets.

Saving a Preset

1. Dial in your desired delay settings using the Time, Repeats, Mix, and Mode controls.
2. Turn the Preset knob to select the desired preset slot (1-6) where you wish to save your settings.
3. Hold down the Preset Save/Recall button until the LED flashes, indicating the preset has been saved.

Recalling a Preset

1. Turn the Preset knob to select the desired preset slot (1-6).
2. Press the Preset Save/Recall button briefly to load the saved settings for that slot.

Tap Tempo

The Tap footswitch allows you to set the delay time by tapping your foot.

1. Tap the Tap footswitch two or more times in rhythm to set the delay time. The pedal will average your taps to determine the tempo.
2. Holding the Tap footswitch will engage momentary delay, meaning the effect is active only while the footswitch is held down.

Expression Pedal Control

The expression pedal input allows for real-time control over a user-assignable parameter. Refer to the official EarthQuaker Devices website or full manual for detailed instructions on assigning parameters to the expression pedal.

Maintenance

• Clean the pedal with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Periodically check all connections for tightness.
• Store the pedal in a cool, dry place when not in use.

Troubleshooting

• No Sound: Check all cable connections. Ensure the power supply is correctly connected and functioning. Verify the Activate footswitch LED is on.
• Weak or Distorted Sound: Check instrument and amplifier volume levels. Ensure the Mix knob is not set too high, causing signal clipping.
• Delay Not Engaging: Ensure the Activate footswitch is pressed and its LED is illuminated.
• Presets Not Saving/Recalling: Ensure you are holding the Preset Save/Recall button long enough to save, and pressing it briefly to recall.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or further assistance, please visit the official EarthQuaker Devices website or contact their customer service.

You can find more information and products from EarthQuaker Devices at their Amazon Store.