JHS Pedals COLOUR BOX 10 Instruction Manual

Introduction

The JHS Pedals COLOUR BOX 10 is a studio-quality preamp, EQ, and distortion unit designed for compatibility with various instruments. This manual provides detailed instructions for its setup, operation, and maintenance.

Package Contents

Ensure all items are present before proceeding with setup:

• COLOUR BOX 10 Pedal
• Input selector switch
• Power cable

Key Features

• Incorporates an Output Transformer for enhanced signal integrity.
• Safely Handles 48V Phantom Power, suitable for condenser microphones.
• Precision EQ Control with dedicated EQ Shift Knobs for detailed tone shaping.
• Ultra Clean Headroom with Hi/Lo Switch for versatile gain staging.
• Consistent Clean Signal on Acoustic Guitar, preserving natural tone.
• Silent Operation, No Switch-Pop, ensuring smooth performance transitions.
• Powered by Standard 9V DC Negative Power for easy integration into existing setups.

Controls and Connections

The COLOUR BOX 10 features a comprehensive set of controls for precise sound sculpting. Refer to the image below for a visual guide to the pedal's layout.

Figure 1: Top view of the JHS Pedals COLOUR BOX 10, showing all control knobs and switches.

Control Knobs:

• Master: Controls the overall output volume of the pedal.
• Pre-Vol: Adjusts the input gain, influencing the amount of saturation and distortion.
• Step: A stepped gain control that adds distinct stages of gain and color to the signal.
• Hi Pass: Controls the cutoff frequency for the high-pass filter. Turning clockwise increases the cutoff frequency, removing more low-end.
• Treble: Adjusts the high-frequency equalization.
• Middle: Adjusts the mid-frequency equalization.
• Bass: Adjusts the low-frequency equalization.
• Treble Shift: Shifts the center frequency of the Treble EQ band.
• Mid Shift: Shifts the center frequency of the Middle EQ band.
• Bass Shift: Shifts the center frequency of the Bass EQ band.

Switches:

• Hi Pass Toggle Switch: Activates or deactivates the Hi Pass filter.
• Hi/Lo Toggle Switch: Selects between high and low headroom modes, affecting the overall gain structure and clean signal.

Connections:

• Input (1/4" TRS): Connect your instrument or microphone.
• Output (XLR): Connect to an audio interface, mixer, or amplifier.
• 9V DC Power Input: Connect a standard 9V DC negative center power supply.

Setup Guide

1. Power Connection: Connect the provided 9V DC power cable to the pedal's power input. Ensure you use a standard 9V DC negative center power supply.
2. Instrument/Microphone Input: Connect your instrument (e.g., guitar, bass) or microphone to the 1/4" TRS input jack. If using a microphone requiring phantom power, the COLOUR BOX 10 can safely handle 48V phantom power.
3. Output Connection: Connect the XLR output of the COLOUR BOX 10 to your audio interface, mixing console, or amplifier.
4. Initial Settings: Before powering on, set all control knobs to their middle position (12 o'clock) and ensure both toggle switches are in their neutral or 'off' position (if applicable, for Hi Pass).
5. Power On: Apply power to the pedal. The indicator LED should illuminate.

Operating Instructions

The COLOUR BOX 10 offers extensive tonal possibilities. Experiment with the controls to find your desired sound.

Gain Staging:

• Use the Pre-Vol knob to adjust the initial gain. Higher settings will introduce more saturation and distortion.
• The Step knob provides incremental gain stages, adding character and drive.
• The Hi/Lo toggle switch selects between two headroom settings. 'Hi' offers more clean headroom, while 'Lo' provides earlier breakup and compression.

Equalization:

• Adjust the Treble, Middle, and Bass knobs to shape your tone.
• Utilize the Treble Shift, Mid Shift, and Bass Shift knobs to fine-tune the frequency centers of each EQ band, allowing for precise tonal adjustments.
• The Hi Pass filter, activated by its toggle switch, can be used to remove unwanted low-end rumble or to tighten up your sound. Adjust the Hi Pass knob to set the cutoff frequency.

Output Level:

The Master knob controls the final output volume. Adjust this to match the input level of your next device in the signal chain.

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 humidity.
• Power Supply: Always use the correct 9V DC negative center power supply to prevent damage.

Troubleshooting

Specifications

Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official JHS Pedals website or contact their customer service directly. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty claims.

JHS Pedals Official Website: www.jhspedals.com