DigiTech FreqOut Natural Feedback Creator Guitar Pedal

Warranty and Technical Support

DigiTech® is proud to offer a warranty on its products. Registration online at www.digitech.com within ten days of purchase is required to validate this warranty, which is valid only in the United States. DigiTech warrants this product, when purchased new from an authorized DigiTech dealer in the United States and used exclusively in the United States, to be free from defects in materials and workmanship under conditions of normal use and maintenance. This warranty is valid only for the original purchaser and is non-transferable. DigiTech's liability under this warranty is limited to the repair or replacement of defective materials showing signs of defect, provided the product is returned to DigiTech WITH RETURN AUTHORIZATION (RA), where all parts and labor will be covered for a period of one year. An RA number can be obtained by calling DigiTech. The company will not be liable for any consequential damages arising from the use of the product in any circuit or assembly. Proof of purchase is the consumer's responsibility; a copy of the original purchase receipt is required for warranty service. DigiTech reserves the right to make design changes or additions without obligation to install them on previously manufactured products. The consumer forfeits warranty benefits if the main assembly is opened or tampered with by anyone other than a DigiTech-certified technician, or if the product is used with AC voltages outside the manufacturer's suggested range. This warranty replaces all other warranties, expressed or implied. DigiTech does not authorize 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 any delay in the performance of this warranty due to causes beyond their control.

Note: Information in this manual is subject to change without notice. Some information may be inaccurate due to undocumented product changes. This version supersedes all previous versions.

For technical support, contact DigiTech. Be prepared to describe the problem accurately and know your device's serial number (found on a chassis sticker). Register your product at digitech.com if you haven't already. Before returning a product for service, consult this manual to ensure installation and operating procedures were followed correctly. For further technical assistance, contact our technical service department at (+82) 1800-6951 or visit digitech.com. You MUST contact technical support first to obtain a return authorization number (RA). Products returned to the factory without an RA will NOT be accepted. After the warranty expires, factory service will incur reasonable charges for parts, labor, and packaging. You are responsible for shipping costs to the factory. If the product is still under warranty, DigiTech will pay return shipping costs. Use original packaging if available. Mark the package with the shipper's name and the words in red: DELICATE INSTRUMENT, FRAGILE! Insure the package properly. Prepaid shipping only, no collect. Do not ship postal packages.

Introduction to the DigiTech FreqOut

Thank you for choosing the DigiTech® FreqOut Natural Feedback Creator pedal. The FreqOut is a revolutionary pedal that adds selectable harmonic feedback to any guitar signal without coloring the original tone. Engaging the effect boosts a user-selectable harmonic of the input note, creating natural, controlled feedback sustain through any amplifier or amp modeler at any volume. The FreqOut features 7 different harmonic types, controls for feedback gain, and onset time (the time it takes for feedback to reach full intensity). An LED ladder displays when the effect is active or bypassed and provides a visual indication of feedback onset. The Dry switch determines if the dry signal is audible (on) or muted (off), and the Momentary switch allows the footswitch to function as a momentary (on) or latching (off) switch.

How to Use FreqOut:

1. Start by setting the GAIN, ONSET, and TYPE knobs to 12 o'clock.
2. Set the MOMENTARY switch to "OFF" and the DRY switch to "ON".
3. Engage the effect using the EFFECT footswitch; the LED in the center of the LED ladder will illuminate, indicating the effect is active.
4. Play a single note on your guitar; the feedback sustain should become audible. Adjust the GAIN and ONSET knobs for desired feedback amount and onset speed.
5. Select your desired harmonic frequency using the TYPE knob. Refer to "Using the Harmonic Types" on page 4 for more information.
6. If you wish to create a swell-type effect (reminiscent of an *EBow™), disengage the DRY switch. Otherwise, leave it engaged.
7. Set the MOMENTARY switch for your desired EFFECT footswitch operation. Refer to the "Momentary Switch" callout in "User Interface" on page 2 for more information on the MOMENTARY switch's function.

Key Features:

• Controllable, natural-sounding feedback for electric guitar.
• 7 selectable feedback harmonic types.
• Adjustable feedback gain and onset time controls.
• LED Ladder provides effect activation/bypass and feedback onset status.
• Dry On/Off switch.
• Momentary On/Off footswitch options.
• True bypass.
• Compact design.
• Solid construction.

* EBow is a trademark of Heet Sound Products.

User Interface

The FreqOut pedal features the following controls and connections:

• Power Connector: Connect the recommended power adapter to this jack (see "Specifications" on page 6). The FreqOut pedal requires a power adapter for operation. Battery power is not available.
• Feedback LED: The center LED illuminates to indicate that the FreqOut effect is active. When the effect is engaged, the LEDs light up from the inside out to display the speed of the feedback effect's onset.
• Output Jack: Connect this jack to the input of an amplifier or the input of the next pedal on your board.
• Effect Footswitch: Engages or disengages the FreqOut effect. The Effect footswitch can function as a latching or momentary switch depending on the position of the Momentary switch.
• Momentary Switch: Determines the operation of the Effect footswitch.
  • ON: The effect will be enabled only as long as the Effect pedal is held down. Use this setting to apply feedback only to specific notes or passages during a performance. This setting uses a buffered bypass signal path.
  • OFF: The Effect footswitch will function just like standard effect pedals, where the effect toggles between enabled and bypassed modes each time the Effect footswitch is pressed. Use this mode when you want the feedback to be more apparent during a performance and do not want it applied during specific notes or phrases. This setting provides a true bypass signal path.
• Gain and Onset Knobs:
  • Gain Knob: Adjusts the amount of feedback gain. Use lower settings for a subtle effect. Use higher settings to increase the feedback/sustain effect.
  • Onset Knob: Determines the time it takes for the feedback to reach maximum intensity. Lower knob settings reduce the time, while higher knob settings increase the time.
• Type Knob: Selects one of seven feedback types:
  • SUB: Produces feedback one octave below the note.
  • 1ST: Produces the first harmonic (unison) feedback of the note.
  • 2ND: Produces the second harmonic feedback of the note.
  • 3RD: Produces the third harmonic feedback of the note.
  • 5TH: Produces the fifth harmonic feedback of the note.
  • NAT LOW: Produces various feedback frequencies in the lower harmonic range.
  • NAT HIGH: Produces various feedback frequencies in a higher harmonic range.
  Refer to "Using the Harmonic Types" on page 4 for more detailed information on using the different harmonic types.
• Dry Switch: Engages or disengages the dry signal while the effect is enabled.Note: When the Momentary switch is set to "ON" and the Dry switch is set to "OFF", there will be no dry signal transmitted through the FreqOut.
• Input Jack: Connect your instrument to this jack.

Using the Harmonic Types

The first five harmonic feedback types allow you to achieve predictable, repeatable feedback at a specific frequency. Feedback is selectable in sub-octave, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, or 5th harmonic, where harmonic is defined as a multiple of the note's frequency. For example, the fifth harmonic is 5 times your note's frequency (which is actually 2 octaves above a major third interval from the original note).

The two natural feedback types (NAT LOW and NAT HIGH) behave more like natural feedback. Using these feedback types, you may receive different feedback each time you play the same note. Here are some tips for directing feedback to what you want when using the natural feedback types:

• Achieving lower frequency feedback: Try playing more softly, rolling off your tone, and using the neck pickup.
• Achieving higher frequency feedback: Try playing notes harder, opening up your tone control, and using the bridge pickup.
• Achieving transition feedback: Generally, higher frequency feedback is more likely to transition to lower frequencies as the note decays. Follow the tips above to achieve higher frequency feedback to get more feedback transitions.

NAT LOW vs. NAT HIGH: Both feedback types have similar behaviors, but NAT LOW limits feedback frequencies to a lower range and does not allow for 5th harmonic feedback or higher. This restriction ensures you do not get feedback that sounds "major" on minor chords. NAT HIGH allows feedback to achieve a slightly higher tone, thus slightly increasing the chances of feedback transitioning to a midpoint note.

Connections and Power

To connect the FreqOut pedal to your rig:

1. Lower the volume control on your main amplifier.
2. Make all audio connections to the FreqOut as shown below.
3. Connect the optional power adapter to the POWER input jack and plug the other end into an available AC outlet.
4. Strum your guitar and gradually increase your amplifier's main volume control until you reach your desired level.

Note: Because the FreqOut pedal emulates the interaction between a guitar and an amplifier, it is recommended to place it at the beginning of your effects chain. This will provide a pure guitar signal and allow the pedal to correctly create the feedback harmonics.

Connection Diagram (Textual Description):

The diagram illustrates the following connections:

• An "IN" jack from a guitar (or previous pedal) connects to the FreqOut's input jack.
• An "OUT" jack from the FreqOut connects to the input of an amplifier (or next pedal).
• An "OUT" jack from "OTHER PEDALS" connects to the FreqOut's input jack.
• A PS0913DC Power Supply (sold separately) connects to the FreqOut's power connector.
• The use of unbalanced TS 1/4" cables is recommended.

Specifications

Electronic

Input

Output

Physical

Power

WEB: digitech.com

SUPPORT: support@digitech.com

© 2022 CORTEK Corp. All rights reserved. DigiTech is a registered trademark of CORTEK Corp.

Conformity and Safety Instructions

Safety Warnings:

• ⚠️ CAUTION: RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK - DO NOT OPEN.
• ⚠️ ATTENTION: RISQUE DE CHOC ÉLECTRIQUE - NE PAS OUVRIR.
• ⚠️ WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
• ⚠️ ATTENTION: POUR RÉDUIRE LE RISQUE D'INCENDIE OU D'ÉLECTROCUTION N'EXPOSEZ PAS CET APPAREIL À LA PLUIE OU À L'HUMIDITÉ.
• The symbols shown above are internationally accepted symbols warning of potential hazards with electrical products. The lightning bolt with an arrow point in an equilateral triangle indicates that hazardous voltages are present within the unit. The exclamation point in an equilateral triangle indicates that the user needs to refer to the user manual.
• These symbols warn that there are no user-serviceable parts inside the unit. Do not open the unit. Do not attempt to repair the unit yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel. Opening the chassis for any reason will void the manufacturer's warranty. Do not get the unit wet. If liquid is spilled on the unit, turn it off immediately and take it to a dealer for service. Unplug the unit during lightning storms to avoid damage.
• Low altitude use indication: do not use this product above 2000 m.

Declaration of Conformity

Manufacturer Name: DigiTech

Manufacturer Address: 59 Hwagok-ro 61gil, Gangseo-gu, Seoul 07590 Republic of Korea

Declares that the product:

Product Name: FREQOUT

Product Option: all

Conforms to the following product specifications:

EMC: EN 55032:2015+A11:2020, EN 55035:2017+A11:2020 FCC Part 15

Supplementary Information: This product complies with the requirements of: EMC Directive 2014/30/EU, RoHS Directive 2002/95/EC, WEEE Directive 2002/96/EC, Regulation EC 278/2009.

Contact: CORTEK Corp. 59 Hwagok-ro 61gil Gangseo-gu, Seoul 07590, Republic of Korea / support@digitech.com

General Safety Warnings

• READ THESE INSTRUCTIONS.
• KEEP THESE INSTRUCTIONS.
• HEED ALL WARNINGS.
• FOLLOW ALL INSTRUCTIONS.
• DO NOT USE THIS APPARATUS NEAR WATER.
• CLEAN ONLY WITH A DRY CLOTH.
• FOR INDOOR USE ONLY.
• DO NOT BLOCK ANY VENTILATION OPENINGS. INSTALL ACCORDING TO THE MANUFACTURER'S INSTRUCTIONS.
• DO NOT INSTALL NEAR ANY HEAT SOURCES SUCH AS RADIATORS, HEAT REGISTERS, STOVES, OR OTHER APPARATUS (INCLUDING AMPLIFIERS) THAT PRODUCE HEAT.
• USE ONLY COMPONENTS/ACCESSORIES SPECIFIED BY THE MANUFACTURER.
• UNPLUG THIS APPARATUS DURING LIGHTNING STORMS OR WHEN UNUSED FOR LONG PERIODS OF TIME.
• Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades, one wider than the other. A grounding-type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug is not fit for your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
• Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
• Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, or table specified by the manufacturer or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
• Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
• POWER SWITCH: The power switch used in this apparatus does NOT interrupt the connection from the mains.
• MAINS DISCONNECTION: The plug must remain readily operable. For rack mounting or installation where the plug is not accessible, a mains switch must be incorporated into the rack or building's electrical system with a pole separation of at least 3 mm in each pole.
• If connected to 240 V supply, a suitable CSA/UL certified power cord must be used for this supply.

UK MAINS PLUG WARNING

A molded power supply plug that has been cut off from the cord is unsafe. Dispose of the power supply plug safely. NEVER insert a damaged or cut-off power supply plug into a 13 AMP socket.

Do not use the power supply plug without the fuse cover in place. Replacement fuse covers can be obtained from your local dealer. Replacement fuses are 13 ampere and MUST be ASTA approved to BS1362.

Safety Instructions and Electromagnetic Compatibility

Safety Instructions (Power Cord)

NOTICE TO CUSTOMERS IF UNIT IS EQUIPPED WITH A POWER SUPPLY CORD:

WARNING: THIS APPARATUS MUST BE CONNECTED TO A PROTECTIVE EARTH GROUND MAINS SOCKET.

The conductors of the power supply cord are colored according to the following code:

• GREEN AND YELLOW – EARTH
• BLUE – NEUTRAL
• BROWN - LIVE

BECAUSE THE COLORS OF THE CONDUCTORS OF THE POWER SUPPLY CORD OF THIS APPARATUS MAY NOT CORRESPOND WITH THE COLORED MARKINGS IDENTIFYING THE TERMINALS OF YOUR PLUG, PROCEED AS FOLLOWS:

• THE GREEN AND YELLOW CONDUCTOR MUST BE CONNECTED TO THE TERMINAL IN THE PLUG MARKED WITH THE LETTER E, OR WITH THE EARTH SYMBOL, OR COLORED GREEN, OR GREEN AND YELLOW.
• THE BLUE CONDUCTOR MUST BE CONNECTED TO THE TERMINAL MARKED N OR COLORED BLACK.
• THE BROWN CONDUCTOR MUST BE CONNECTED TO THE TERMINAL MARKED L OR COLORED RED.

THIS APPARATUS MAY REQUIRE THE USE OF A DIFFERENT LINE CORD, ATTACHMENT PLUG, OR BOTH, DEPENDING ON THE POWER SOURCE AVAILABLE AT THE TIME OF INSTALLATION. IF IT IS NECESSARY TO REPLACE THE ATTACHMENT PLUG, REFER TO THE QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL WHO SHOULD REFER TO THE TABLE BELOW. THE GREEN/YELLOW WIRE MUST BE CONNECTED DIRECTLY TO THE UNIT'S CHASSIS.

WARNING: IF THE EARTH IS INSUPERATED, SOME FAULT CONDITIONS IN THE UNIT OR THE SYSTEM TO WHICH IT IS CONNECTED MAY CAUSE FULL LINE VOLTAGE BETWEEN THE CHASSIS AND EARTH. IF THE CHASSIS AND EARTH ARE TOUCHED SIMULTANEOUSLY, IT MAY CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

Electromagnetic Compatibility

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules and the product specifications indicated in the Declaration of Conformity. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

• this device may not cause harmful interference, and
• this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Avoid operating this unit within significant electromagnetic fields. Use only shielded interconnect cables.

Product Disposal

If you wish to dispose of this product, do not mix it with general household waste. There is a separate collection system for used electronic products in accordance with legislation requiring proper treatment, recovery, and recycling.

Private households in the 25 EU member states, Switzerland, and Norway can return their used electronic products free of charge to designated collection facilities or to a retailer (if purchasing a similar new one). For countries not mentioned above, please contact your local authorities for the correct disposal method. This way, you will ensure that your disposed product undergoes the necessary treatment, recovery, and recycling, thereby preventing potential negative effects on the environment and human health.