DigiTech BP50 Modeling Bass Processor

Introduction

Thanks to continuous advances in musical technology, the BP50 offers flexibility, power, and the capability to produce sounds never before thought possible. We recommend reading this User's Guide with your BP50 to better understand its features.

Included Items

Before you get started, please ensure the following items are included:

• BP50
• Warranty Card

The utmost care was taken during manufacturing. If anything is missing, contact the factory. Please help us get acquainted by completing your warranty card or registering online at www.digitech.com.

Safety and Compliance

Safety Warnings

The following symbols are internationally accepted warnings for potential hazards with electrical products:

• CAUTION: RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK - DO NOT OPEN (ATTENTION: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE - NE PAS OUVRIR)
• WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE

The lightning flash symbol (⚡) indicates dangerous voltages within the unit. The exclamation point symbol (❗) indicates that the user should refer to the owner's manual.

These symbols also warn that there are no user-serviceable parts inside. Do not open the unit or attempt self-service; refer all servicing to qualified personnel. Opening the chassis voids the warranty. Do not expose the unit to liquid. If liquid is spilled, shut off the unit immediately and take it to a dealer for service.

Disconnect the unit during storms to prevent damage.

Electromagnetic Compatibility

Operation is subject to the following conditions:

• This device may not cause harmful interference.
• This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
• Use only shielded interconnecting cables.
• Operation of this unit within significant electromagnetic fields should be avoided.

Warning - For Your Protection:

1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with a dry cloth.
7. Do not block any ventilation opening. Install in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
8. This appliance should be connected to a power supply only of the type described in the operating instructions or as marked on the appliance.
9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding-type plug has two blades and a third ground prong for safety. If the provided plug does not fit your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
11. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
12. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
13. To reduce the risk of fire or electrical shock, the user should not attempt to service the appliance beyond what is described in the operating instructions. All other servicing should be referred to qualified service personnel.
14. For units equipped with an externally accessible fuse receptacle, replace the fuse with the same type and rating only.

Declaration of Conformity

Manufacturer's Name: DigiTech

Manufacturer's Address: 8760 South Sandy Parkway, Sandy, Utah 84070 USA

Declares that the product:

• Product Name: BP50
• Product Option: All (requires Class II power adapter that conforms to the requirements of EN60065, EN60742, or equivalent.)

Conforms to the following Product Specifications:

• Safety: EN 60065 (1998)
• EMC: EN 55013 (1990), EN 55020 (1991)

Supplementary Information: The product herewith complies with the requirements of the Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EEC and the EMC Directive 89/336/EEC as amended by Directive 93/68/EEC.

Signed by: Vice-President of Engineering, 8760 S. Sandy Parkway, Sandy, Utah 84070, USA

Date: February 21, 2003

European Contact: Your local DigiTech Sales and Service Office or Harman Music Group, 8760 South Sandy Parkway, Sandy, Utah 84070 USA, Ph: (801) 566-8800, Fax: (801) 568-7583

Warranty

DigiTech is proud of its products and backs each one with the following warranty:

1. The warranty registration card must be mailed within ten days after purchase date to validate this warranty.
2. DigiTech warrants this product, when used solely within the U.S., to be free from defects in materials and workmanship under normal use and service.
3. DigiTech liability under this warranty is limited to repairing or replacing defective materials that show evidence of defect, provided the product is returned to DigiTech WITH RETURN AUTHORIZATION, where all parts and labor will be covered up to a period of one year. A Return Authorization number may be obtained from DigiTech by telephone. The company shall not be liable for any consequential damage as a result of the product's use in any circuit or assembly.
4. Proof-of-purchase is considered to be the burden of the consumer.
5. DigiTech reserves the right to make changes in design, or make additions to, or improvements upon this product without incurring any obligation to install the same on products previously manufactured.
6. The consumer forfeits the benefits of this warranty if the product's main assembly is opened and tampered with by anyone other than a certified DigiTech technician or, if the product is used with AC voltages outside of the range suggested by the manufacturer.
7. The foregoing is in lieu of all other warranties, expressed or implied, and DigiTech neither assumes nor authorizes any person to assume any obligation or liability in connection with the sale of this product. In no event shall DigiTech or its dealers be liable for special or consequential damages or from any delay in the performance of this warranty due to causes beyond their control.

Note: The information contained in this manual is subject to change at any time without notification. Some information may also be inaccurate due to undocumented changes in the product or operating system since this version of the manual was completed. The information contained in this version of the owner's manual supersedes all previous versions.

The Front Panel

The BP50 features a control panel with various buttons and indicators:

Control Descriptions:

• 1. Footswitches: These two footswitches are used to select presets, access the Tuner, or bypass the BP50. Press the Up Footswitch to increment, and the Down Footswitch to decrement through the presets. Press both footswitches simultaneously to bypass the selected preset. Press and hold both footswitches to access the Tuner.
• 2. Value Buttons: These buttons perform various functions depending on the mode. In Play mode, they control the BP50's Master Level. In Edit mode, they adjust the selected effect. They also change the Pattern, Tempo, and Level of the Drum machine when it is turned on. When the Tuner is on, these buttons select the tuning reference.
• 3. Edit/Effect Buttons: Pressing either of these buttons enters Edit mode and selects the individual effects to be edited. Press the left and right Edit buttons to move through the effects. The effect LEDs light to identify which effect you are editing.
• 4. Drums Button: This button is used to turn the BP50's drum machine on and off. When the Drums feature is on, the Drums LED lights and the selected drum pattern plays continuously.
• 5. Effect LEDs: These LEDs provide information regarding the current preset. In Edit mode, the LEDs identify the effect selected for editing. In Tuner mode, the LEDs indicate whether the note played is sharp, flat, or in tune.
• 6. Display: The display provides information for different functions depending on the selected mode. In Play mode, it shows the selected preset number. In Edit mode, it shows the value of the parameter being adjusted. When the Tuner is selected, it shows the note played.
• 7. Store Button: This button saves your custom changes to the user presets.

Diagram Description: The front panel displays the BP50 logo, a digital display screen, and labeled buttons for various functions including Noise Gate, EQ, Amp Model, Compressor, Fretless/Wah, Chorus/Mod, Delay, Reverb, Pattern, Tempo, Drums, Edit/Effect, Play, and Store. Below these are two large footswitches, each labeled "DigiTech" and "BYP".

The Rear Panel

The rear panel includes the following connections:

• 1. Input: A 1/4" jack for connecting your instrument.
• 2. Output: A stereo TRS jack. Connect from this jack to the input of a single amplifier for mono applications, or use a TRS stereo "Y" cord to connect to the inputs of 2 amplifiers for stereo applications. This jack can also be used as a headphone jack. Note: When using the BP50 direct into a mixer or recording device, or when using it with headphones, you can enable the Global Cabinet Modeling feature to emulate speaker simulation on each of the BP50's presets. (See Page 20 for more on Global Cabinet Modeling.)
• 3. Control In: A 1/4" jack for connecting a passive volume pedal to control Volume, Wah, and Whammy™ parameters in the BP50.
• 4. Power Input: Connect only the optional DigiTech PS200R power supply to this jack.

Making Connections

There are several different connection options available when using the BP50. Before connecting the BP50, ensure that the power to your amplifier is turned off, and the power to the BP50 is disconnected. The BP50 does not have a power switch. To turn the BP50 off, disconnect your instrument from the Input Jack (for battery power) or disconnect the optional PS200R power supply from the Power Jack or the AC outlet.

Mono Operation

Connect your bass to the Input of the BP50. Connect a single mono instrument cable from the Stereo Output of the BP50 to the instrument input on your amplifier.

Stereo Operation

For stereo operation, connect the bass to the Input of the BP50. Connect a TRS stereo "Y" cord or a pair of stereo headphones to the BP50's Output. When using a "Y" cord, connect one end to the input of one amplifier or channel of a mixer. Connect the second end to a second amplifier, or second channel of a mixer. If connecting to a mixing console, set the pan controls of the mixer hard left and right to retain stereo separation. To emulate a bass cabinet sound when using the BP50 with a mixer or headphones, you can use Global Cabinet Modeling (see page 20).

Applying Power

There are two options for powering the BP50: battery power, and the optional PS200R power supply. Before applying power, set your amp(s) to a clean tone and set the tone controls to a flat EQ response (on most amps, this would be 0 or 5 on the tone controls).

Battery Power

The BP50 can be run for more than 15 hours on 6 AA batteries. The battery compartment is located on the bottom of the BP50. Pay close attention to the battery polarity when installing batteries, as polarity changes direction for each pair.

AC Power

The BP50 can also be powered with the optional PS200R power supply. Connect the plug of the PS200R power supply to the power jack on the rear panel of the BP50. Connect the other end of the PS200R power supply to an AC outlet. Turn your amplifier(s) on and adjust the volume(s) to a normal playing level.

About the BP50

The Presets

Presets are numbered locations of programmed sounds, recalled with the Footswitches. The BP50 comes with 40 User Presets (Presets 1-40) and 40 Factory Presets (Presets 41-80). User Presets are locations where you can store your own sounds. Factory Presets may not be saved over. From the factory, the 40 User Presets are exact duplicates of the 40 Factory Presets.

Play Mode

When you first apply power to the BP50, it powers up in Play mode, indicated by the far left LED. In Play mode, use the Up and Down Footswitches to access the presets.

Tuner

The Tuner in the BP50 lets you quickly tune or check the tuning of your bass. Press and hold both Footswitches simultaneously to access the tuner. The display briefly shows "tu" indicating Tuner mode. To begin tuning, play a note on your bass (the neck pickup usually works best). The display shows the note being played. The Effect LEDs indicate whether the note is sharp or flat: the right 6 red LEDs indicate the note is sharp (tune down), and the left 6 red LEDs indicate the note is flat (tune up). The center Green LED indicates the note is in tune. The output is muted in Tuner mode.

In Tuner Mode, you can change your tuning reference. The default factory setting is A=440 Hz (displayed as "40"). Press the Value Buttons to select alternate dropped tunings: A = Ab (displayed as "Ab"), A = G (displayed as "G"), and A = Gb (displayed as "Gb"). The display window briefly flashes the selected tuning preference. Exit tuner mode by pressing either Footswitch. The tuning reference is retained when the unit is turned off.

Bypass

The BP50 presets can be bypassed for a clean, unprocessed bass tone. To bypass the BP50, press both footswitches simultaneously. The display reads "bY" indicating the preset is bypassed. Press either footswitch to exit Bypass and return to the last selected preset.

Editing/Creating Presets

The BP50 lets you create your own presets or fine-tune existing ones. When creating or editing a sound, you must start with a User or Factory Preset; you cannot start with an empty preset. You can save your preset to any User Preset location.

To edit or create a Preset:

1. Press the Footswitches to select a preset.
2. Press the EDIT buttons in conjunction with the Effect LEDs to choose the effect you want to edit.
3. Press the VALUE Buttons to change the parameter values.

The Effect LEDs

When editing a preset, the Effect LEDs are used to identify which effect is selected for editing. The Edit buttons move you through the Effect modules, and the LEDs light to identify which effect group is selected. Each effect has multiple settings. The Value buttons are used to change the value for the selected effect, shown on the display. When a stored value is changed, the lower right decimal point in the display lights, indicating you need to store the changes. Changing presets or turning the power off before storing any changes will erase them and revert to the stored values.

Storing/Copying a Preset

Once a preset has been modified, you may store your settings to one of the 40 User Preset locations (Presets 1-40). To store changes or copy a preset:

1. Press the STORE button. The display flashes.
2. Use the footswitches to select the preset location you want to store your changes to.
3. Press the STORE button again to save your changes.

Effect Definitions

The BP50 can be thought of as several different "virtual" amplifiers and individual hi-tech effects. Understanding how these effects alter the sound helps you achieve your desired tone. The following overview outlines what each effect does.

Effect Overview:

The signal path can include the following effects: Fretless/Wah, Compressor, Amp Modeling, Cabinet Modeling, Noise Gate, EQ, Chorus/Mod, Delay, and Reverb.

Preset Level

Controls the individual level for each preset. This setting can be adjusted to match louder or softer amp models.

Fretless/Wah

The fretless simulator creates a fretless bass sound. Wah is an effect controlled by an expression pedal, making the bass sound as if it's saying "Wah." The Fretless/Wah Type parameter, adjusted by the Value buttons, selects the simulated type. The effect has 30 types (10-39), with parameters for amount and attack.

Compressor

A Compressor limits the dynamic level of the bass signal. The Compressor effect has 110 different settings (00-99, F0-F9). The first digit represents the crossover frequency (e.g., 50Hz, 63Hz, 1kHz), and the second digit (0-9) increases the amount of compression. For example, a setting of 62 means a 400 Hz crossover frequency with a compression amount of 2.

Amp/Stompbox Modeling

This technology reproduces the tones of popular modern and vintage amps and distortion stompboxes. Values 1-9 increase the amp or stompbox gain and level. Specific models include:

• Amps: Ampeg SVT, Ashdown Bass Magnifier, Fender Bassman, Sunn 200S, SWR Interstellar Overdrive, Trace-Elliot Commando, Ampeg B15, Hiwatt Custom 50, Mesa/Boogie 400+, Fender Dual Showman, SWR Basic Black, Voodoo Labs Sparkledrive.
• Distortions: DigiFuzz, Guyatone OD-I, EH Big Muff Pi, Boss DS-1.

All trademarks are the property of their respective companies and are not associated with DigiTech.

EQ

Equalization shapes the tonal response. Values 1-4 cut the level of each band, 5 is flat (no cut or boost), and values 6-9 boost the level. Bass (b1-b9) adjusts low-end enhancement, Mid (d1-d9) adjusts mid-range enhancement, and Treble (t1-t9) adjusts high-end enhancement.

Noise Gate

Designed to eliminate noise when not playing. The AutoSwell setting creates a volume pedal effect with varying attack times. Different bass guitars and pickups may require different threshold settings. Choose a setting that fully mutes the sound when not playing for the lowest setting. Settings OF.G1-G9 select the Silencer™ Noise Gate (threshold adjustable), and S1-S9 select the Auto Swell volume swell effect (attack time adjustable).

Chorus/Mod

This multi-function module offers Chorus, Flanger, Phaser, Vibrato, SynthTalk™, Octavider, Envelope, Detune, Pitch Shift, and Whammy™ effects. Only one effect can be used at a time. Value buttons select the effect type and parameters.

• Chorus (C1-C9): Adds a short, modulated delay for a thicker sound and stereo image.
• Flanger (F1-F9): Uses a shorter delay time and adds regeneration for an exaggerated sweeping motion.
• Phaser (P1-P9): Splits and phases the signal, canceling frequencies for a twisting sound.
• Vibrato (b1-b9): Modulates the pitch of the incoming signal at an even rate.
• SynthTalk™ (S1-S9): Uses formant style filtering for vocal and vowel sounds, creating a synthesized talking bass illusion.
• Octavider (O1-O9): Creates a smooth tracking unison note one octave below the played note.
• Envelope Filter (E1-E9): A dynamic Wah effect that alters sound based on playing dynamics.
• Detune (d1-d9): Makes a copy of the incoming signal, shifts it slightly out of tune, and mixes them for a doubling effect.
• Pitch Shift (H1-H9): Copies the incoming signal and shifts its pitch to a different note, sounding as if two bass guitars are playing different notes. Settings range from -12 to +12 semitones.
• Whammy™ (Y1-Y9): Uses an expression pedal to bend the pitch or add bendable harmony. W denotes Whammy bends, H denotes harmony bends. Settings include Octave Up/Down and harmonic intervals.

Delay

The BP50 has 3 delay types: Mono (D), Analog (A), and Ping Pong (P), each with 2 seconds of delay time. Parameters include feedback (repeats) and level. Settings range from 5% to 50% feedback and levels 15, 30, or 50.

Reverb

Using reverb gives the listener a sense of the material being performed in an actual room or hall, making it a useful tool in recorded music. Use the Value buttons to select one of nine settings, with higher numbers indicating more reverb level. Reverb types include Room, Hall, Plate, Church, Arena, and Spring.

Other Functions

Expression Pedal

The rear panel has an input for an expression pedal. Any passive volume pedal can be used. Connect it to the Expression Pedal Input. The pedal controls the BP50's Volume, Wah, or Whammy™ parameters. If Wah and Whammy are disabled, it functions as a volume pedal.

Drum Machine

The BP50 includes 30 sampled drum patterns plus a metronome pattern for timing practice. Press the Drums button to enter Drums mode and start playback of the drum loop (unless in Store or Bypass mode). In Drums mode, the Edit buttons select the drum Pattern, Tempo, and Level. Press the Drums button again to stop playback.

Global Cabinet Modeling

This feature can be enabled on all presets when running the BP50 into a mixer, recording device, or with headphones. It emulates a speaker cabinet connected to each amp model, optimizing the sound. To enable Cabinet Modeling:

1. Press and hold the DRUMS button when applying power to the BP50.
2. Wait until the display reads "Cabinet On".
3. Release the Drums button.

Cabinet Modeling is now enabled for all amp models in all presets. The following lists what cabinet accompanies each model:

• r1-r9: 8x10 Cabinet
• a1-A9: 4x10H Cabinet
• b1-b9: 4x10 Cabinet
• S1-S9: 2x15 Cabinet
• O1-O9: 4x10H Cabinet
• t1-t9: 2x15 Cabinet
• o1-o9: 1x15 Cabinet
• H1-H9: 4x10 Cabinet
• Y1-Y9: 2x15 Cabinet
• d1-d9: 2x15 Cabinet
• c1-c9: 4x10H Cabinet
• F1-F9: 2x15 Cabinet
• g1-g9: 2x15 Cabinet
• P1-P9: 2x15 Cabinet
• L1-L9: 2x15 Cabinet
• n1-n9: 2x15 Cabinet

Factory Reset

This function resets the BP50 to its original factory settings. Performing this function erases all user-programmed data. All such data will be lost forever!

Procedure for Factory Reset:

1. Disconnect the power supply from the BP50 (AC Power) or unplug the bass guitar from the input jack (battery power).
2. Press and hold the left EDIT button while re-connecting the power or plugging your bass guitar into the BP50's input.
3. When the display reads "--", release the button and press the STORE button. The display will read "rE", indicating the BP50 is now restored to its factory settings.

Appendix: Specifications

• Input: 1/4" input
• Output: 1/4" Stereo TRS (can be used as a headphone output)
• Control In: 1/4" input (Use a passive volume pedal as an expression controller)
• A/D/A: 24 bit Delta Sigma
• Power Supply: 6 AA Batteries or DigiTech PS200R (9VDC) power supply
• Power Consumption: 5 Watts Maximum (w/ optional PS200R power supply)
• Battery Life: >15 hours with continuous useage
• Memory: 40 User/40 Factory Presets
• Effects: Fretless/Wah, Compressor, 11 Amp Models, 5 Stompbox Models, 3-band EQ, Noise Gate, Cabinet Modeling, Chorus, Flange, Phaser, Vibrato, SynthTalk™, Tremolo, Envelope Filter, Pitch Shift, Detune, Whammy™, Delay, and Reverb
• Drum Machine: 30 Patterns plus metronome
• Simultaneous Effects: Up to 8
• Dimensions: 6" L x 5" W x 2.125"H
• Weight: 0.85 lbs (1.85 lbs. w/ power supply)

Preset List (User/Factory)

Contact Information

DigiTech

8760 South Sandy Parkway, Sandy, Utah 84070

PH: (801) 566-8800

FAX: (801) 566-7005

DigiTech® is a registered trademark of Harman Music Group Inc.

Copyright - Harman Music Group

Printed 5/2003

BP50 Modeling Bass Processor User's Guide 18-6404V-B

Please visit DigiTech on the World Wide Web at: www.digitech.com

A Harman International Company