DigiTech Bass Whammy Owner's Manual

Warranty Information

DigiTech is proud to offer the following warranty:

1. Please register online at www.digitech.com within ten days of purchase to validate this warranty. This warranty is valid in the USA only.
2. DigiTech warrants this product, when purchased new from an authorized US DigiTech dealer and used exclusively in the USA, to be free from defects in materials and workmanship under normal use and service. This warranty is valid for the original purchaser only and is non-transferable.
3. DigiTech's responsibility 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 A RETURN AUTHORIZATION NUMBER, where all parts and labor will be covered for a period of one year. A return authorization number can be obtained from DigiTech by phone. The company is not responsible for any consequential damages resulting from the use of the product in any circuit or assembly.
4. Proof of purchase is the responsibility of the consumer. A copy of the original sales receipt must be provided for any warranty service.
5. DigiTech reserves the right to make changes in design or to add to or improve 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 main unit of the product is opened and modified by anyone other than a certified DigiTech technician, or if the product is used with AC voltages outside the range specified 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 for it any obligation or liability in connection with the sale of this product. DigiTech or its dealers shall in no event be liable for special damages or consequential damages or for any delay in performance of this warranty due to causes beyond their control.

NOTE: The information in this manual is subject to change without notice at any time. Some information in this guide may also be inaccurate due to undocumented changes in the product or operating system since this version of the guide was completed. The information in this version of the user guide supersedes all previous versions.

Introduction

Congratulations on your purchase of the new Bass Whammy™ Pedal. The Bass Whammy is designed specifically for bass and offers DigiTech's latest pitch shifting technology, classic Whammy pitch bending effects, and true bypass operation. The added Classic/Chords switch toggles between single note and chord Whammy modes, providing solid pitch-shifting effects. The Bass Whammy interface features the same classic Bass Whammy pitch bending capabilities you're accustomed to, along with some extra pitch bend settings from its guitar counterpart.

Features:

• Whammy Pitch Bending Effects
• Classic Whammy Interface
• Classic/Chords Switch
• True bypass operation
• MIDI Input for remote control of Whammy effects
• Included power supply

Included Items:

• Bass Whammy Pedal
• Power Supply
• Warranty Registration Information Card

If anything is missing, please contact the factory immediately.

Guided Tour: Detailed Description

The Bass Whammy pedal features several controls and connections for shaping your sound.

1. Expression Pedal: This pedal controls the pitch bend amount for the selected Harmony, Whammy, or Detune effect. Rocking it forward (toe down) increases the pitch bend amount, while rocking it back (toe up) decreases it.

2. Harmony LEDs: One of these LEDs illuminates when a Harmony effect is selected. Harmony effects add a 'dry' signal mixed with the effect signal.

3. Classic/Chords Switch: This switch toggles between the classic Whammy algorithm (Classic) and the modern chord algorithm (Chords). The Classic setting is ideal for single-note playing, while the Chords setting is best suited for bending entire chords.

4. Selector Knob: This knob is used to select one of the Whammy, Harmony, or Detune effects.

5. Whammy LEDs: One of these LEDs will light up when a Whammy effect is selected. Whammy effects do not have a 'dry' signal mixed in.

6. Detuner LEDs: One of these LEDs illuminates when a Detune effect is selected. The expression pedal controls the amount of the Detune signal blended with the 'dry' signal.

7. Status LED: This LED lights up to indicate the effect is on. When the effect is bypassed, this LED will be off.

8. Effect On/Off Footswitch: This switch turns the Whammy, Harmony, or Detune effect on and off.

9. Power Input: Connect the power supply to this jack. Use only the supplied power supply.

10. Output Jack: Connect this jack to another pedal's input or an amplifier's input.

11. Instrument Input: Connect your instrument to this jack.

12. MIDI Input: Connect an external MIDI device to this jack to remotely control the Bass Whammy.

Diagram Description: A visual representation shows the top and side views of the Bass Whammy pedal with numbered callouts corresponding to the controls and connections described above.

Setting Up Connections

The Bass Whammy pedal is extremely easy to set up and use. Follow these steps to get started:

1. Connect your instrument to the Bass Whammy's Input Jack.
2. Connect from the Bass Whammy's Output Jack to your preferred distortion pedal or to your amplifier.
3. If using an external MIDI device for control, connect from the MIDI Out of the MIDI device to the Bass Whammy's MIDI Input.
4. Plug the supplied power supply into an AC outlet and the other end into the Bass Whammy's Power Input.
5. Turn on your amplifier and set the volume to the desired level.
6. Use the Effect On/Off footswitch to engage the effect, turn the selector knob to choose the desired effect, and rock the Expression Pedal.

Diagram Description: A block diagram illustrates the typical signal flow: Instrument -> Bass Whammy Input -> Bass Whammy Output -> Distortion Pedal -> Amplifier. It also shows MIDI Out from a device connecting to Bass Whammy MIDI In, and the power supply connecting to the Bass Whammy Power Input.

Effects

Whammy Effects

This group of effects will bend your incoming signal up or down depending on the effect setting you have selected. As the expression pedal is rocked forward and back, the signal will bend from the original input pitch (toe up) to the pitch specified by the selected effect setting (toe down).

• 2 OCT UP: Bends your input tone up two octaves.
• 1 OCT UP: Bends your input tone up one octave.
• 5TH UP: Bends the input tone up 7 semitones (a 5th interval).
• 4TH UP: Bends the input tone up 5 semitones (a 4th interval).
• 2ND UP: Bends the input tone up 2 semitones (a 2nd interval).
• 2ND DN: Bends the input tone down 2 semitones (a 2nd interval).
• 4TH DN: Bends the input tone down 5 semitones (a 4th interval).
• 5TH DN: Bends the input tone down 7 semitones (a 5th interval).
• 1 OCT DN: Bends your input tone down one octave.
• DIVE BOMBO: Bends your input note down three octaves.

Harmony Effects

This group of effects adds a harmony to your incoming signal. Both the harmony tone and the input signal are blended together, as if two basses were playing simultaneously. As you rock the pedal forward and back, the harmony tone bends between two intervals specified by the selected effect setting, but the input signal remains unchanged.

• OCT OP/2 OCT OP: Bends the harmony between one octave above (toe up) and two octaves above (toe down) the input tone.
• OCT OP/10TH OP: Bends the harmony between one octave above (toe up) and a 10th above (toe down) the input note.
• OCT DN/OCT UP: Bends the harmony between one octave below (toe up) and one octave above (toe down) the input tone.
• OCT DN/4TH DN: Bends the harmony between one octave below (toe up) and a fourth below (toe down) the input note.
• 5TH OP/OCT OP: Bends the harmony between a fifth above (toe up) and an octave above (toe down) the input tone.
• 5TH UP/6TH UP: Bends the harmony between a fifth above (toe up) and a sixth above (toe down) the input tone.
• 5TH DN/5TH UP: Bends the harmony between a fifth below (toe up) and a fifth above (toe down) the input note.
• 4TH DN/5TH UP: Bends the harmony between a fourth below (toe up) and a 5th above (toe down) the input note.
• 4TH DN/3RD UP: Bends the harmony between a fourth below (toe up) and a major third above (toe down) the input note.

Detune Effects

This group of effects creates a copy of your input signal, shifts the pitch of the copied signal, and then blends it back with the original signal. As the expression pedal is rocked forward and back, the level of this detuned signal changes. With the pedal in the toe-up position, only the original dry signal is heard. As the pedal is rocked forward, more of the detuned signal is blended with the dry signal.

• SHALLOW: The copied signal is detuned slightly from the original pitch.
• DEEP: The copied signal is significantly detuned from the original pitch.

Diagram Description: Images show the 'Whammy Presets' and 'Detune Presets' sections of the pedal, illustrating the available effects and their names.

MIDI Functions

The Bass Whammy has a MIDI input for receiving incoming MIDI data. MIDI messages can select a Whammy effect and set whether the effect is in active or bypassed mode. MIDI CC messages can then be used to control the Bass Whammy Expression Pedal position.

MIDI Channel

The Bass Whammy can receive MIDI messages on any or all MIDI channels. The following steps describe the procedure for accessing or changing the MIDI channel:

1. Disconnect power from the Bass Whammy pedal.
2. Press and hold the Effect On/Off footswitch while reconnecting power. One of the effect LEDs will begin to blink, indicating the currently selected MIDI channel.
3. Refer to the diagram below, turn the selector knob to choose the desired MIDI channel.
4. Press the Effect On/Off footswitch again to exit the MIDI setup menu.

Diagram Description: A diagram shows the pedal's controls with labels pointing to channels 1 through 16, indicating how to select the MIDI channel using the selector knob.

MIDI Program Changes

The Bass Whammy uses MIDI Program Change commands for effect selection. Effects can be selected in either active or bypassed mode. The following illustrations show MIDI Program Change mappings for Classic mode and Chords mode.

Effects MIDI Program Change Mapping (Classic Mode)

When set to Classic mode, the following illustration outlines the Program Change commands recognized by the Bass Whammy, and the corresponding effect setting and its status.

Diagram Description: A table/diagram shows MIDI Program Change numbers (e.g., 33-42 for Bypass, 12-21 for Active) mapped to Harmony and Whammy effects in Classic mode. For example, PC #42 (Bypass) / #21 (Active) corresponds to HARMONY 2 OCT.

Effects MIDI Program Change Mapping (Chords Mode)

When set to Chords mode, the following illustration outlines the Program Change commands recognized by the Bass Whammy, and the corresponding effect setting and its status.

Diagram Description: A table/diagram shows MIDI Program Change numbers (e.g., 54-63 for Bypass, 43-52 for Active) mapped to Harmony and Whammy effects in Chords mode. For example, PC #63 (Bypass) / #43 (Active) corresponds to HARMONY 2 OCT.

MIDI Continuous Control

Using MIDI continuous control commands, the Bass Whammy's Expression Pedal position can be remotely controlled. MIDI CC11 adjusts the Expression Pedal position. A value of 0 on MIDI CC11 corresponds to a toe-up position, and a value of 127 corresponds to a toe-down position.

Expression Pedal Calibration

In the unlikely event that the Expression Pedal does not respond correctly, or the tone does not bend or return to the correct pitch, it may need to be recalibrated. The following steps outline the procedure for recalibrating the expression pedal:

1. Disconnect power from the Bass Whammy pedal.
2. Press and hold the Effect On/Off footswitch while reconnecting power. This will activate MIDI and calibration setup. Wait for one of the Whammy, Detune, or Harmony LEDs to begin blinking (indicating the currently selected MIDI channel), then release the footswitch.
3. Rock the expression pedal fully forward (toe down) and fully back (toe up) at least twice. The 4 Harmony LEDs will light up forward and backward (from OCT DN/4TH DN to OCT UP/2 OCT UP) as the pedal is rocked, indicating the pedal is calibrating.
4. When finished, press the Effect On/Off footswitch again to exit the MIDI and calibration setup and return to normal operation.

Specifications

Instrument Input Type: 1/4" Unbalanced TS

Max Input Level: +5 dBu

Input Impedance: 1 MΩ

MIDI Input: 5-Pin Din

Output Type: 1/4" Unbalanced TS

Max Output Level: +10 dBu

Output Impedance: 1 kΩ

Sample Rate: 44.1 kHz

Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz

Signal to Noise Ratio: > -105 dB (A weighted); ref = max level, 22 kHz bandwidth

THD: 0.004% @ 1 kHz; ref = 1 dBu w/ unity gain

A/D Conversion: 24 bit

D/A Conversion: 24 bit

Power Consumption: 2.4 Watts (< 265 mA @ 9 VDC)

Power Requirements: 9 VDC External Adapter

Power Adapter: PS0913DC-01 (US, JA, EU) / PS0913DC-02 (AU, UK) / PS0913DC-04 (US, JA, EU, AU, UK)

Dimensions: 6.5" (W) x 7.75" (D) x 2.5" (H)

Shipping Weight: 3.6 lbs.

Compliance and Safety Instructions

The symbols shown above are internationally accepted symbols that warn of potential dangers with electrical products. The lightning bolt with an arrow point in an equilateral triangle means there are dangerous voltages in the unit. An exclamation mark 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 service the unit yourself. Leave 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, immediately turn it off and take it to a dealer for service. Disconnect the unit during storms to prevent damage.

The following is a guideline for use at low altitudes; do not use this product above 2000m (6561 ft).

WARNING FOR YOUR PROTECTION READ THE FOLLOWING:

• KEEP THESE INSTRUCTIONS.
• HEED ALL WARNINGS.
• FOLLOW ALL INSTRUCTIONS.
• The apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing, and no objects filled with liquids, such as vases, shall be placed on the apparatus.
• CLEAN ONLY WITH A DRY CLOTH.
• FOR INDOOR USE ONLY.
• DO NOT BLOCK ANY VENTILATION OPENINGS. INSTALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH 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 ACCESSORIES/ATTACHMENTS SPECIFIED BY THE MANUFACTURER.
• UNPLUG THIS APPARATUS DURING LIGHTNING STORMS, OR WHEN UNUSED FOR LONG PERIODS.
• Avoid defeating the safety purpose of the polarized plug 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 pin. The wide blade or the third prong is provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit your outlet, consult an electrician to replace the obsolete outlet.
• Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, especially at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
• Use only with the cart, stand, bracket, 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 tipping.

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 ON/OFF BUTTON: The power switch used in this equipment does NOT disconnect the mains connection.

MAINS DISCONNECTION: The plug shall remain readily operable. For rack-mounting or installation where the plug is not accessible, an all-pole main switch with a contact separation of at least 3 mm in each pole shall be incorporated into the electrical installation of the rack or building. If connected to a 240V supply, a suitable CSA/UL-certified power cord for this supply must be used.

DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY

Manufacturer's Name: DigiTech

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

declares that the product:

Product Name: Bass Whammy

Product Option: all

Complies with the following product specifications:

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

Supplementary Information:

The product hereby complies with the requirements of: EMC Directive 2014/30/EU, RoHS Directive 2002/95/EC, WEEE Directive 2002/96/EC, EC Directive 278/2009.

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

ELECTROMAGNETIC COMPATIBILITY

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules and the product specifications stated in the Declaration of Conformity. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: • this device must not cause harmful interference, and • this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Use of this device within significant electromagnetic fields should be avoided. • Use only shielded connection cables.

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 EU's 25 member states, in Switzerland, and Norway can return their used electronic products free of charge to designated collection points or to a retailer (if you are purchasing a similar new item). For countries not mentioned above, please contact your local authorities for a proper disposal method. By doing so, you will ensure that your discarded product undergoes the necessary treatment, recovery, and recycling, thereby preventing potential negative effects on the environment and human health.