NUX NCH-4 UKIYO-E CHORUS User Manual
Overview
The UKIYO-E CHORUS (NCH-4) is a compact chorus pedal featuring 3 distinct chorus models: ST Chorus, SCH-1, and CE-1. These models can be switched by tapping the dedicated tap switch. The pedal aims to combine the warmth of old-school analog chorus with modern digital processing.
NUX's modern DSP technology provides a blend of analog and digital capabilities. The algorithm mimics the principles of BBD chips, crucial components in analog chorus effects, to deliver a traditional analog chorus tone with active low-frequency response. This approach, along with Dynamic Tone and Noise-Elimination, sets the UKIYO-E apart from simpler analog pedals.
Due to the rarity and cost of quality BBD chips, NUX utilizes DSP technology to offer a mini-pedal with a wide range of chorus tones.
The ST Chorus model is inspired by the MXR® Stereo Chorus, offering a gorgeous sound. Controls for bass and treble knobs have been consolidated internally, with the bass filter automatically corrected by Core-Image™ sound modeling.
The SCH-1 model pays tribute to the ARION® SCH-1, known for its authentic vintage analog chorus tones, ranging from subtle to a realistic Leslie effect.
The CE-1 model is based on the legendary BOSS® CE-1, the first chorus effect pedal. It replicates the characteristic warmth and rich jazz atmosphere that made the original a recognizable highlight for musicians.
The UKIYO-E CHORUS offers both True-bypass and Buffer-bypass (Trails) modes. To select the mode, hold the footswitch during boot-up (without connecting USB). The footswitch indicator will show the bypass status: flashing "Green" for Buffer-Bypass (BF) and "Red" for True-Bypass (TB).
Despite its mini size, the pedal supports Stereo input & output using a 1/4" TRS plug.
*All brand and model names mentioned are trademarks of their respective owners and are not affiliated with NUX Effects or Cherub Technology Co. LTD.
Important Safety Instructions
Follow all instructions and heed all warnings. KEEP THESE INSTRUCTIONS!
WARNING: IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE CONNECTING, READ INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING:
To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this appliance to rain or moisture.
CAUTION:
To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not remove screws. No user-serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified service personnel.
CAUTION:
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device pursuant to Part 15 of FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
[electrical caution symbol]
The lightning symbol within a triangle means "electrical caution!" It indicates the presence of information about operating voltage and potential risks of electrical shock.
[caution symbol]
The exclamation point within a triangle means "caution!" Please read the information next to all caution signs.
- Use only the supplied power supply or power cord. If you are not sure of the type of power available, consult your dealer or local power company.
- Do not place near heat sources, such as radiators, heat registers, or appliances which produce heat.
- Guard against objects or liquids entering the enclosure.
- Do not attempt to service this product yourself, as opening or removing covers may expose you to dangerous voltage points or other risks. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
- Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as when the 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.
- The power supply cord should be unplugged when the unit is to be unused for long periods of time.
- Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles and at the point where they exit from the apparatus.
- Prolonged listening at high volume levels may cause irreparable hearing loss and/or damage. Always be sure to practice "safe listening".
Operation
The NUX UKIYO-E CHORUS (NCH-4) is a pink, compact guitar effects pedal. The top panel features model indicators (ST Chorus, Red:SCH-1, Blue:CE-1) and control knobs for INTENSITY (which functions as TONE for the SCH-1 model), WIDTH, and RATE. A TAP switch & indicator is present for model selection and tempo control. The front panel has a FOOTSWITCH for engaging/disengaging the effect and activating Smart Tap Tempo, accompanied by an FS INDICATOR. The side panel includes a USB-C port and an INPUT jack. The rear panel features an OUTPUT jack and a DC jack for power connection.
Control Panel
INTENSITY knob
Controls the overall amount of effect. In the SCH-1 model, this knob functions as the TONE knob to adjust the high-frequency response of the effect.
WIDTH knob
Adjusts the sweep range of the chorus effect.
RATE knob
Adjusts the speed of the chorus effect. This knob can be set to a desired sub-division, and then the footswitch can be tapped to set the chorusing speed related to tap tempo.
TAP Switch & Indicator
A short press of the TAP switch cycles through the chorus models: "Off" (ST Chorus), "Red" (SCH-1), "Blue" (CE-1).
Holding the TAP switch during pedal boot-up allows selection between "Mono" or "Stereo" mode. The Tap Switch Indicator will flash "Blue" for Mono and "Red" for Stereo.
Footswitch & FS Indicator
Pressing the FOOTSWITCH once engages or disengages the effect.
Pressing the FOOTSWITCH twice activates Smart Tap Tempo. The chorusing speed will then synchronize with the tap tempo and the current sub-division parameter. The FS indicator will flash to show the current BPM.
While the effect is engaged, the FS indicator shows "Red". While the effect is disengaged, the FS indicator turns off.
I/O Jacks
DC jack
Use only a 9V DC power supply with a Negative Tip and a current rating of more than 100mA. The pedal's power consumption is less than 100mA.
USB-C port
This port is used for firmware updates. Connect a USB cable to a PC and hold the footswitch to boot the device and enter DFU (Device Firmware Update) mode. Firmware updates can be performed using the DFU updater software. Related firmware and update guides can be downloaded from the product page.
INPUT
Connect your guitar cable to this jack. It supports Stereo input and output when using a 1/4" TRS plug and selecting Stereo mode.
OUTPUT
Connect the OUTPUT signal to your amplifier. It also supports Stereo input and output when using a 1/4" TRS plug and selecting Stereo mode.
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Input Impedance | 1MΩ |
| Output Impedance | 10kΩ |
| Dynamic Range | 103dB |
| DSP Processing | 48kHz / 32bit |
| A/D D/A Sampling Rate | 48kHz / 24bit |
| Power | 9V DC (Negative tip, Optional ACD-006A adapter) |
| Current Draw | less than 100mA |
| Dimensions | 94mm(L) x 51mm(W) x 53mm(H) |
| Weight | 175g |
Features
- 3 chorus models in a mini enclosure.
- ST Chorus: Gorgeous sounding chorus.
- SCH-1: Clean chorus to a pretty realistic Leslie effect.
- CE-1: Special warmth of a rich jazz atmosphere.
- Sub-division with Smart Tap Tempo.
- True-bypass or Buffer-bypass (Trails) modes.
- Supports Stereo input and output.
- Low power consumption (less than 100mA).
- Analog dry signal for low noise and zero latency.
Accessories
- Owner's manual
* Specification may change without notice.
The FCC Regulation Warning (for U.S.A.)
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
- Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
- Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
- Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
- Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
