Welcome

Guit ar Mul tiple effects
Switching Between Manual and Memory Mode
The ME-20 features a Memory mode that lets you to store and recall up to 30 user patches so you can quickly and easily load your favorite setups. The ME-20 also offers Manual mode that lets you turn on and off the currently selected effects using the pedals. Heres how to switch between Manual and Memory modes: 1 Press Pedals 2 and 3 simultaneously to toggle between Manual and Memory Mode.
Congratulations on your purchase of the Boss ME-20 Guitar Multi Effects. This TurboStart contains step-by-step instructions thatll quickly introduce you to the ME-20s major features.

Making Connections

Use the following procedure to connect your guitar to the ME-20, and then listen to it: 1 Connect an instrument cable from your guitar to the INPUT jack of the ME-20.
When youre in Memory modethe currently selected Bank number shows in
the display and the MEMORY indicator lights in the display.
Note: The ME-20 can be turned on only when a cable is inserted into its INPUT jack. 2 To hear the ME-20: Connect headphones to the ME-20s PHONES output if you want to listen through headphones. Use the ME-20s L (MONO) OUTPUT jack if youre connecting it to a mono guitar amp. If youre using two guitar amps for a stereo sound, connect the amps to the ME-20s L (MONO) and R OUTPUT jacks.
When youre in Manual modethe MEMORY indicator is unlit, Pedal 1 turns the
OD/DS (Overdrive/Distortion) effect on and off, Pedal 2 turns the MOD effect on and off, and Pedal 3 turns the DELAY effect on and off.

Selecting Patches

Patches are stored in the ME-20 in ten banks, numbered from 1 to 10. Each bank holds three patches. To load a patch, you first select the bank that contains the patch, and then you select the patch. Use the following procedure to load Patch 5-3Bank 5, Patch 3as an example: Press Pedals 2 and 3 simultaneously to enter Memory mode where the current Bank number shows in the display and the displays MEMORY indicator lights. Press the BANK or button so the number 5 flashes in the display. This tells you that Bank 5 is selected and that the ME-20 is waiting for you to choose the desired patch in Bank 5. Now step on Pedal 3the 5 stops flashing and Patch 5-3 is loaded. Using the same procedure, try out some of the other patches in the ME-20.

Tuning the Guitar

The ME-20 features a built-in chromatic auto-tuner that allows you to tune your guitar quickly and easily. Heres how to use the tuner: 3 Press Pedals 1 and 2 simultaneously to switch to Tuner mode two dashes appear in the display. Play your high open E stringthe display shows the name of the note closest to the pitch of the string youve played. If the strings already nearly in tune, you see E. Tune the string until its name appears in the display and an arrow on either side of the display points to the strings name. When only the left-side arrow is lit, the strings tuned flat. When only the arrow on the right side lights, the strings tuned sharp. Repeat Step 3 to tune the other five strings. To leave Tuner mode, press Pedals 1 and 2 simultaneously, or press EDIT/EXIT.
Tip: You can also select different banks using Pedals 2 and 3. To do so, press and hold Pedal 2 for two seconds until the pedal indicators are flashing, and then press Pedal 1 or 2 to select a desired bank. Once youve chosen the bank, press Pedal 3, and then press one of the three pedals to select the desired patch.
2007 Roland Corporation U.S.

www.BOSSUS.com

TBS251

Editing Patches

EZ Edit

EZ Edit is a feature that lets you create your own custom patches quickly and easily, allowing you to adjust combinations of effect parameters with a single knob. Use the following steps to try out EZ Edit: Enter Manual mode as described earlier. Press EZ EDIT. Press the OD/DS, MOD, and DELAY pedals so their indicators are lit. This turns on each of the effect groups. Turn the Parameter knobs to change the different effects. The OD/DS knob selects different overdrive and distortion types. The MOD knob selects different modulation effects. The DELAY knob selects different delay and reverb effects.
You can change the sound of any patch by editing its parameters. Use the knobs to change effect parameter settings, and use the pedals to turn effects on or off. Use the Selecting Patches steps on the previous page to select a patch for editing. Press EDIT/EXITthe MEMORY indicator and Ed flash in the display to show youre in Patch Edit mode. Press the OD/DS, MOD, and DELAY pedals to turn the OD/DS, MOD and DELAY effects on and off as desired. To edit an effect, press its pedal so its indicator lights. Turn the knobs to change the effects parameter settings as desired. Repeat Steps 4 and 5 to adjust other the parameters of other effects.
Note: You may need to fully sweep a knob past the value stored in the current patch to hear a change in the effect. Tip: For detailed information on the various effects, refer to Pages 1621 in the ME-20 Owners Manual.

The Expression Pedal

The ME-20 features on on-board expression pedal to control volume, as well as a wah effect. The built-in switch underneath the expression pedal makes it quick and easy to toggle between controlling volume or wah. Heres how: 1 Press the pedal all the way forward, and then give it a stronger push. When the WAH indicator lights up red, the pedal is controlling wah. When the indicator is unlit, the pedal is controlling volume. Each time you press the pedal forward and give it a solid push, it toggles between wah and volume.

Saving a Patch

You can store your own custom settings as one of the ME-20s 30 user patches using the following procedure: 1 Press WRITEthe MEMORY indicator and bank number begin to flash.
Note: To show you the currently selected bank and patch location, the bank number on the display and the indicators on Pedal 1, 2, and/or 3 flash. 4 Press BANK or to select the bank in which youd like to store your new patch. Press Pedal 1, 2, or 3 to select the desired patch location within the selected bank. Press WRITEthe patch is now stored into the ME-20s memory.

Do not force the units power-supply cord to share an outlet with an unreasonable number of other devices. Be especially careful when using extension cordsthe total power used by all devices you have connected to the extension cords outlet must never exceed the power rating (watts/amperes) for the extension cord. Excessive loads can cause the insulation on the cord to heat up and eventually melt through.
Protect the unit from strong impact. (Do not drop it!)
In households with small children, an adult should provide supervision until the child is capable of following all the rules essential for the safe operation of the unit.

ME-20_e.book 3

Do not allow any objects (e.g., flammable material, coins, pins); or liquids of any kind (water, soft drinks, etc.) to penetrate the unit.
Try to prevent cords and cables from becoming entangled. Also, all cords and cables should be placed so they are out of the reach of children. Never climb on top of, nor place heavy objects on the unit.
Immediately turn the power off, remove the AC adaptor from the outlet, and request servicing by your retailer, the nearest Roland Service Center, or an authorized Roland distributor, as listed on the Information page when: The AC adaptor or the power-supply cord has been damaged; or If smoke or unusual odor occurs Objects have fallen into, or liquid has been spilled onto the unit; or The unit has been exposed to rain (or otherwise has become wet); or The unit does not appear to operate normally or exhibits a marked change in performance.
Before using the unit in a foreign country, consult with your retailer, the nearest Roland Service Center, or an authorized Roland distributor, as listed on the Information page.
Never handle the AC adaptor body, or its output plugs, with wet hands when plugging into, or unplugging from, an outlet or this unit. Before moving the unit, disconnect the AC adaptor and all cords coming from external devices. Before cleaning the unit, turn off the power and unplug the AC adaptor from the outlet (p. 12). Whenever you suspect the possibility of lightning in your area, disconnect the AC adaptor from the outlet. If used improperly, batteries may explode or leak and cause damage or injury. In the interest of safety, please read and observe the following precautions (p. 11). Carefully follow the installation instructions for batteries, and make sure you observe the correct polarity. Avoid using new batteries together with used ones. In addition, avoid mixing different types of batteries. Remove the batteries whenever the unit is to remain unused for an extended period of time. If a battery has leaked, use a soft piece of cloth or paper towel to wipe all remnants of the discharge from the battery compartment. Then install new batteries. To avoid inflammation of the skin, make sure that none of the battery discharge gets onto your hands or skin. Exercise the utmost caution so that none of the discharge gets near your eyes. Immediately rinse the affected area with running water if any of the discharge has entered the eyes. Never keep batteries together with metallic objects such as ballpoint pens, necklaces, hairpins, etc. Used batteries must be disposed of in compliance with whatever regulations for their safe disposal that may be observed in the region in which you live.

Batteries must never be recharged, heated, taken apart, or thrown into fire or water.

111: Selection

The unit and the AC adaptor should be located so their location or position does not interfere with their proper ventilation.
.... Always grasp only the output plug or the body of the AC adaptor when plugging into, or unplugging from, this unit or an outlet.... 103b At regular intervals, you should unplug the AC adaptor and clean it by using a dry cloth to wipe all dust and other accumulations away from its prongs. Also, disconnect the power plug from the power outlet whenever the unit is to remain unused for an extended period of time. Any accumulation of dust between the power plug and the power outlet can result in poor insulation and lead to fire....

ME-20_e.book 4

IMPORTANT NOTES
In addition to the items listed under "USING THE UNIT SAFELY" on page 23, please read and observe the following:
Power Supply: Use of Batteries
Do not connect this unit to same electrical outlet that is being used by an electrical appliance that is controlled by an inverter (such as a refrigerator, washing machine, microwave oven, or air conditioner), or that contains a motor. Depending on the way in which the electrical appliance is used, power supply noise may cause this unit to malfunction or may produce audible noise. If it is not practical to use a separate electrical outlet, connect a power supply noise filter between this unit and the electrical outlet. The AC adaptor will begin to generate heat after long hours of consecutive use. This is normal, and is not a cause for concern. The use of an AC adaptor is recommended as the units power consumption is relatively high. For battery operation, we recommend the use of alkaline batteries. Batteries should always be installed or replaced before connecting any other devices. This way, you can prevent malfunction and/or damage to speakers or other devices. Batteries are supplied with the unit. The life of these batteries may be limited, however, since their primary purpose was to enable testing. Before connecting this unit to other devices, turn off the power to all units. This will help prevent malfunctions and/or damage to speakers or other devices.
When moved from one location to another where the temperature and/or humidity is very different, water droplets (condensation) may form inside the unit. Damage or malfunction may result if you attempt to use the unit in this condition. Therefore, before using the unit, you must allow it to stand for several hours, until the condensation has completely evaporated. Depending on the material and temperature of the surface on which you place the unit, its rubber feet may discolor or mar the surface. You can place a piece of felt or cloth under the rubber feet to prevent this from happening. If you do so, please make sure that the unit will not slip or move accidentally.

ME-20_e.book 5

Use a reasonable amount of care when using the units buttons, sliders, or other controls; and when using its jacks and connectors. Rough handling can lead to malfunctions. When connecting / disconnecting all cables, grasp the connector itselfnever pull on the cable. This way you will avoid causing shorts, or damage to the cables internal elements. To avoid disturbing your neighbors, try to keep the units volume at reasonable levels. You may prefer to use headphones, so you do not need to be concerned about those around you (especially when it is late at night). When you need to transport the unit, package it in the box (including padding) that it came in, if possible. Otherwise, you will need to use equivalent packaging materials. Some connection cables contain resistors. Do not use cables that incorporate resistors for connecting to this unit. The use of such cables can cause the sound level to be extremely low, or impossible to hear. For information on cable specifications, contact the manufacturer of the cable.
Printing Conventions and icons in This Manual
Text or numerals enclosed in square brackets [ ] Indicate buttons. [WRITE] WRITE button Indicates information that you should be aware of when using the ME-20. Indicates supplementary information about an operation. Indicates information about a convenient operation. Indicates a reference page.

(p.**)

ME-20_e.book 6

Contents

Main Features..1 IMPORTANT NOTES.4 Names of Things and What They Do..7
Front Panel..7 Rear Panel..10
Saving and Calling Up Tones (Memory Mode). 23
Manual Mode and Memory Mode.. 23 Switching Between Manual and Memory Mode.. 23 Patches and Banks.. 23 Saving Tones (Write). 24 Calling Up and Using Saved Sounds (Patch Change).. 25
Switching Numbers.. 25 Switching Banks. 25
Installing Batteries.11 Connections.12
Turning On the Power.13 Turning Off the Power.13
Changing Patch Settings (Patch Edit Mode). 26
Tuning the Guitar (Bypass/ Tuner)..14 Introduction to Effects and Parameters..16
About the Effect Connection Sequence..16 OD/DS SOLO.16 OD/DS (Overdrive/Distortion).17 MOD (Modulation).18 DELAY...19 EQ (Equalizer)..20 WAH..21 NS (Noise Suppressor).21

THRESHOLD..21

Other Functions.. 27
Using Footswitch Pedals. 27
Connecting a Footswitch Pedal.. 27
Returning the ME-20 to Its Factory Settings (Factory Reset). 29 Adjusting the Expression Pedal. 30
Patch List. 31 Factory Settings. 32 Blank Chart. 34 Troubleshooting. 36 Specifications. 37 Index.. 38

MASTER LEVEL.21

Creating Sounds Easily (EZ EDIT)..22

ME-20_e.book 7

Names of Things and What They Do

Front Panel

fig.ME-20-front-panel.eps_70

1. Parameter Knobs

These adjust parameters selected with the effect buttons and EZ EDIT button. You can check a parameters current value by holding down its effect select button and turning the knob (this displays the value without adjusting it).
You can change how the knobs respond when turned. 1. 2. Switch to Manual mode (p. 23). Hold down the [EDIT/EXIT] button and press Number Pedal 1. One of the following appears in the display. n0: The value changes immediately as the knob is turned (factory setting). n1: The value changes once the knob is turned past the position corresponding to the currently set value. Press [ ][ ] to change the value of the setting as desired.
Press [WRITE]. The setting is saved, and the ME-20 returns to Manual mode.

ME-20_e.book 8

2. Effect Select Indicators
Show effects you can set using the parameter knobs.

3. Effect Select Buttons

Press these buttons to select the effect whose settings you want to change.

4. EZ EDIT Indicator

Shows whether EZ EDIT is on or off.

5. EZ EDIT Button

Press this to use EZ EDIT (p. 22).

6. Display

Shows the values of parameter settings , bank numbers, and other information. * When the batteries run down, bt is indicated in the display. When this occurs, replace with new batteries.

7. EDIT/EXIT Button

Press this to edit patches in Memory mode (or exit editing).

8. WRITE Button

Press this to save the current sound in User memory.

ME-20_e.book 9

Buttons
Use these to adjust parameters in the various operating modes. Manual mode: NS THRESHOLD Memory mode: Bank (NS THRESHOLD when editing patches) TUNER: Reference pitch

10. WAH Indicator

Shows whether the wah effect is on or off.

11. OD/DS SOLO Indicator

Shows whether the solo sound is on or off.

12. OD/DS SOLO Button

Press this to switch to a sound suited for solos. Pressing this button automatically switches on overdrive/distortion.

13. MASTER LEVEL Knob

Adjusts the volume of the output.

14. Expression Pedal

Controls the volume level (volume pedal). Firmly depressing the front end of the pedal switches WAH ON/OFF. When the wah effect is on, the pedal functions as a wah pedal. When WAH is on: Functions as a wah pedal. When WAH is off: Functions as a volume pedal. When operating the expression pedal, be careful not to get your fingers pinched between the movable part and the panel. In places with small children, an adult should provide supervision and guidance until the child is capable of following all the rules essential for the safe operation of the unit.

15. Pedal Indicators

Show whether the corresponding effect is on or off. In Memory mode, they indicate the current patch number.

16. Effect/Number Pedals

Switch the corresponding effects on and off. When the ME-20 is in Memory mode, these switch correspondingly numbered patches. Holding down the OD/DS pedal for two seconds when in Manual mode switches you to the OD/DS SOLO on/off function. Holding it down for two seconds a second time returns you to the OD/DS on/off function. 9

ME-20_e.book 10

Rear Panel

ME-20-rear-panel.eps_70

1. SECURITY LOCK ( 2. INPUT Jack
http://www.kensington.com/
Connect your guitar here. * The INPUT jack doubles as a power switch. Inserting a plug into the INPUT jack turns on the power; the power is switched off when the plug is disconnected. Be sure to unplug the cable from this jack when the ME-20 is not in use. Connect a CD or MP3 player here to practice with sounds from these devices. * You cannot adjust the volume of the AUX input. Adjust the volume on the connected device. * Do not use a cable that contains a resistor to connect external devices to the AUX IN jack. Use of such cables may make sounds from connected devices inaudible. * No effects are applied to the AUX input signal. Connect an amp or mixer here.

3. AUX IN Jack

4. OUTPUT L/MONO, R Jacks 5. PHONES (Headphones) Jack

Connect stereo headphones here. When headphones are connected to the PHONES jack, tonal adjustments are applied so the sound is close to that produced by the guitar amp.
6. FOOT SW (Footswitch) Jack
Connect an optional footswitch (such as the FS-6) here. The footswitch functions differently in Manual mode and Memory mode. When in Manual mode: Switches the OD/DS Solo on/off. Switches the Bypass/Tuner on/off. When in Memory mode: Bank up, Bank down
7. DC IN (AC Adaptor) Jack
Connect the optional AC adaptor (PSA series) here. * Use only the specified AC adaptor (PSA series).

ME-20_e.book 11

Installing Batteries
Insert the batteries as shown in figure, being careful to orient the batteries correctly.
fig.replace-battery.eps_38
When the batteries run down, bt appears in the display. When this occurs, install new batteries. When turning the unit over, place some newspapers, magazines, or other suitable material under the four corners or at both ends to prevent damage to the buttons and controls. Also, try to position the unit so no buttons or controls can get damaged. When turning the unit over, handle it with care to avoid dropping it or allowing it to fall or tip over. Make sure the + and - ends of the batteries are oriented correctly. Use six AA-type dry cells when replacing the batteries. Avoid using new and used batteries together or combinations of different types of batteries. Doing so may result in fluid leakage. Batteries are supplied with the unit. Since the primary purpose of these batteries is to confirm operation of the unit, their battery life may be limited.
Continuous usage time under battery power is about 13 hours with alkaline batteries and about 3.5 hours with manganese batteries. (This may vary according to usage conditions.)

ME-20_e.book 12

Connections
fig.ME-20-connect-e.eps_70
AC adaptor (PSA series) CD/MP3 player Stereo Headphones

Phones Jack

Footswitch (FS-6, etc.) Guitar Guitar Amp
* When using an AC adaptor, be sure to use only the specified type (PSA series). Using an adaptor other than the specified type may cause malfunction. * To prevent malfunction and/or damage to speakers or other devices, always turn down the volume and turn off the power to all devices before making any connections. * The INPUT jack doubles as a power switch. Inserting a plug in the INPUT jack turns on the power; the power is switched off when the plug is disconnected. Be sure to unplug the cable from this jack when the ME-20 is not in use. * Some connection cables contain resistors. When connection cables with resistors are used, the sound level may be extremely low, or impossible to hear. For information on cable specifications, contact the manufacturer of the cable. * When youre using a single guitar amp, connect it to the L/MONO jack.

For more information about connecting a footswitch pedal to the footswitch jack, refer to Using Footswitch Pedals (p. 27).

ME-20_e.book 13

Connections Turn on power to the various devices in the order specified. Turning on devices in the wrong order may cause malfunction and/or damage to speakers and other devices.

Turning On the Power

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Completely turn down the volume on all devices and connect the external devices. * Dont insert the plug into the INPUT jack yet. Insert the plug into the INPUT jack. * Inserting a plug into the INPUT jack switches on the power. Turn on the power to the CD or MP3 player or other input device. Lastly, turn on the power to the guitar amp or other output device. Following this, adjust the volume of each device. * This unit is equipped with a protection circuit. A brief interval (a few seconds) after powerup is required before the unit will operate normally.

Turning Off the Power

1. 2. 3. 4. Completely turn down the volume of all devices. First, turn off the power to the guitar amp and other output devices. Turn off the power to the CD or MP3 player or other input device. Pull out the plug from the INPUT jack. * Disconnecting the plug from the INPUT jack switches off the power.

Recommended Settings

Recommended Settings for a Roland JC-120 Recommended Settings for a Stack Amp

MAX MIN

PRESENCE

TREBLE

MIDDLE

Set to OFF

Recommended Settings for a Combo Amp

BRIGHT

ME-20_e.book 14
Tuning the Guitar (Bypass/Tuner)
The ME-20 features a built-in chromatic auto-tuner that allows you to tune your guitar easily without changing any of your connections. Additionally, in Tuner mode, the sound output is the same as the input sound, with no effects applied (bypass). You can use the expression pedal to turn down the volume, making it unnecessary for you to turn down your amps volume each time you tune.
Press the Number 1 and 2 pedals simultaneously to switch to Tuner mode. The tuner appears in the display, and any deviation from the pitch is indicated by the Tuning guide.

fig.7seg-tuner1.eps

Tuning guide
If necessary, you can change the reference pitch. Press [ ] [ ] and the current reference pitch is indicated in the display for a brief length of time. By continuing with this operation, you can change the reference pitch, in one Hertz units, to any value from 435 Hz to 445 Hz. The setting is saved automatically, so there is no need to make this setting each time you tune. * The reference pitch was set to 440 Hz (Display: 40) when the unit was shipped from the factory.

ME-20_e.book 17

OD/DS (Overdrive/Distortion)
This effect uses distortion to add unique characteristics to a sound and allows you to sustain the sound.

OD/DS Type List

TYPE 1: OVERDRIVE 2: BLUES 3: DISTORTION 4: METAL 5: FUZZ 6: COMPRESSOR Descriptions A sweet, mild distortion like that of a tube amp. A unique type of overdrive that brings out the nuances of your picking. Sharp distortion providing rich sustain. A powerful, spirited distortion sound. A unique distortion with a rough, intense sound. This effect produces long sustain without distorting the sound. You can also use it as a limiter to suppress only the sound peaks and prevent distortion.

fig.FX-ODDS.eps_50

fig.FX-ODDS2.eps_90
Descriptions 1: OVERDRIVE 2: BLUES 3: DISTORTION 4: METAL 5: FUZZ 6: COMPRESSOR
Adjusts the amount of distortion. Turn to the right (clockwise) to boost the distortion; this also increases the volume.
Adjusts the tone. Adjusts the volume Turn to the left (coun- level. terclockwise) to produce a warmer sound, to the right (clockwise) to produce a brighter Adjusts the sustain. Turn to the right (clock- sound. wise) to produce a longer sustain. Turning the knob to the left (counterclockwise) creates an effect resembling a limiter.

ME-20_e.book 18

MOD (Modulation)
This effect broadens and adds an undulation effect to the sound.

MOD Type List

TYPE 1: CHORUS 2: PHASER 3: FLANGER 4: TREMOLO 5: ROTARY

fig.FX-MOD.eps_50

Descriptions This effect adds a subtle wavering to the sound, transforming it into a beautiful sound with breadth and body. This creates a sound with a shifting phase, adding a twisting warp effect to the sound. This effect adds a subtle type of motion that creates a sound similar to the ascent/descent sounds of a jet plane. This effect creates a sense of undulation by cyclically changing the volume level. This produces the effect of a rotary speaker.

fig.FX-MOD2.eps_90

Descriptions 1: CHORUS
2: PHASER 3: FLANGER 4: TREMOLO

5: ROTARY

Adjusts the period of the wavering cycle. Turning the knob to the right increases the rate. Adjusts the period of the undulation cycle. Turning the knob to the right increases the rate. Adjusts the period of the change in volume. Turning the knob to the right increases the rate. Adjusts the speed of rotation. Turning the knob to the right increases the rate.

This effect creates a wah effect using the pedal controller. Stepping down on the pedal creates a brighter sound, while releasing the pedal produces a muffled sound. When the wah effect is on, the pedal functions as a wah pedal. When WAH is on: Functions as a wah pedal. When WAH is off: Functions as a volume pedal.

NS (Noise Suppressor)

This effect suppresses noise and hum from the pickups.

THRESHOLD

This adjusts the effect in response to the level of noise. Increase the value when there is a considerable amount of noise. Decrease the value when there isnt that much noise. A value of 0 switches off the noise suppressor. * Setting the value higher than necessary may result in no output of sounds when the guitar volume is low. * Adjust this value until the decay of the guitar sound is as natural as possible.

MASTER LEVEL

This adjusts the level of the output from the ME-20. * Raising the MASTER LEVEL knob too much may result in sound distortion. * When the effects are all off, input and output are at the same levels as when the MASTER LEVEL knob is at the center position. * The setting of the MASTER LEVEL knob is stored in memory for each patch (p. 23). 21

ME-20_e.book 22

Creating Sounds Easily (EZ EDIT)
EZ EDIT is a feature for creating sounds quickly and easily. You can adjust a combination of effect parameters with just a single knob.

fig.ME-20-ezedit1.eps_55

1. 2. 3. Press [EZ EDIT]. Press the effect pedal to switch the effect ON/OFF setting. Change the sound by turning the knob for the effect whose settings you want to change. Switch the sounds as needed by repeating Steps 2 and 3.

EZ EDIT Setting List

NO. 11 OD/DS OVERDRIVE 1 OVERDRIVE 2 BLUES 1 BLUES 2 DISTORTION 1 DISTORTION 2 METAL 1 METAL 2 FUZZ 1 FUZZ 2 COMPRESSOR MOD LIGHT CHORUS DEEP CHORUS SLOW PHASER MEDIUM PHASER LIGHT FLANGER DEEP FLANGER MEDIUM TREMOLO FAST TREMOLO SLOW ROTARY FAST ROTARY DELAY MEDIUM DELAY 1 (360ms) SHORT DELAY 1 (160ms) DOUBLING MEDIUM DELAY 2 (500ms) LONG DELAY (700ms) SHORT DELAY 2 (90ms) RHYTHM DELAY (400ms) SMALL REVERB MEDIUM REVERB LARGE REVERB EQ FLAT MID BOOST SCOOP VINTAGE BRIGHT FAT LEAD JAZZ -

ME-20_e.book 23

Saving and Calling Up Tones (Memory Mode)
Manual Mode and Memory Mode

Calling Up and Using Saved Sounds (Patch Change)
To switch patches, use [ ][ ] and the number pedals (13). * When you initially switch to Memory mode after turning on the power, Bank 1, Number 1 is always selected.
fig.ME-20-patch-change.eps_35

Switching Numbers

When a number pedal (1) is pressed, the pedal indicator (2) lights up, the patch with that number in the currently selected bank is called up, and the sound is switched instantly.
fig.ME-20-bank-change.eps_35

Switching Banks

The bank is switched each time [ ] [ ] (1) is pressed, and the currently selected bank flashes in the display (2); sounds are not yet switched at this point.

(1) (2)

* With the ME-20 in this state, pressing any of the number pedals (3) instantly switches the sound to the sound of the patch assigned to the currently selected bank/number. (3) You can switch banks with the number pedals. In Memory mode, if you continue depressing the number pedal for the currently selected patch for two seconds, the pedal indicator flashes, and the functions of the number pedals change as shown below. Number Pedal 1: Bank Number Pedal 2: Bank Number Pedal 3: Restores original pedal functions You can switch banks using a footswitch pedal. For more information, refer to Using Footswitch Pedals (p. 27). 25

ME-20_e.book 26

Changing Patch Settings (Patch Edit Mode)
In Memory mode, switching effects on or off or adjusting NS THRESHOLD is not possible. To make these changes, you put the unit in Patch Edit mode.
fig.ME-20-patch-edit.eps_55

1 2,4 5

1. 2. Call up to the patch whose settings you want to edit (p. 25). Press [EDIT/EXIT]. Ed appears in the display and the MEMORY indicator starts to flash, indicating that the unit is now in Patch Edit mode. As in Manual mode, with the ME-20 in this state, the number pedals switch the effects on and off, while [ ] [ ] control NS THRESHOLD, allowing you to set all the parameters. Use the knobs, pedals, and buttons to change settings as desired. Press [EDIT/EXIT] to return to Memory mode. If you want to save your new settings, carry out the Write procedure (p. 24). Changed settings are not saved until the Write procedure is performed. Switching to a different patch before saving a patch causes its changed content to be lost, so the next time the patch is selected, its previous settings are called up.

BANK NO.

SOLO OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF ON OFF OFF OFF ON OFF OFF OFF OFF ON OFF ON ON OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF ON
SW ON ON ON ON ON ON ON ON ON ON ON ON ON ON ON OFF ON ON OFF ON ON ON ON ON ON ON ON ON ON ON
TYPE DRIVE TONE LEVEL 25 22
* The OD/DS Solo level is set to 25.

ME-20_e.book 33

DELAY SW OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF ON OFF OFF ON ON OFF OFF ON OFF OFF OFF ON ON OFF ON ON OFF OFF ON ON OFF OFF ON ON ON FEEDTYPE TIME BACK 40 20
EQ LOW- HIGHLEVEL LOW MID MID 27 26
WAH HIGH SW OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF ON OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF ON OFF OFF ON

NS THRESHOLD 15 35

MASTER LEVEL 25 25

Type List

NO. OD/DS OVERDRIVE BLUES DISTORTION METAL FUZZ COMPRESSOR MOD CHORUS PHASER FLANGER TREMOLO ROTARY DELAY 0-99ms DELAY 100-700ms DELAY REVERB -

ME-20_e.book 34

Blank Chart
OD/DS MOD SW TYPE RATE DEPTH LEVEL

TYPE DRIVE TONE LEVEL

ME-20_e.book 35

DELAY SW TYPE

EQ WAH NS MASTER FEEDLOW- HIGHTHRESH- LEVEL TIME LEVEL LOW HIGH SW OLD BACK MID MID

ME-20_e.book 36

Troubleshooting
bt Appears in the Display
Batteries are run down. Replace with new batteries (p. 11). Is the volume turned down? Check the volume levels on any connected amp or mixer. Check LEVEL and other volume parameters to make sure no volume setting is too low. Could the level have been lowered with the expression pedal? When the pedal is set to function as a volume pedal, sounds are not output when the toe of the expression pedal is in the raised position. Is the ME-20 in Tuner mode? In Tuner mode, the bypassed sound is output, and the expression pedal functions as a volume pedal. In this case, sounds are not output when the toe of the pedal is in the raised position. Could you be using a cable with an embedded resistor to connect a CD or MP3 player to the AUX IN jack? Use of a cable that contains a resistor may make sound from connected devices inaudible.

Power does not turn on

Is the correct AC adaptor (PSA series; sold separately) properly connected? Check once more to confirm the adaptor is connected (p. 12). Never use any AC adaptor other than the adaptor specified. Has the battery run down? Replace with new batteries (p. 11). * The batteries included with the ME-20 are intended only for confirming that the unit is functional. * This unit consumes a large amount of current, so the use of an AC adaptor is recommended. If using batteries, use alkaline-type batteries. * To reduce battery consumption, be sure to disconnect the plug connected to the INPUT jack whenever the unit is not in use. Is the plug properly connected to the INPUT jack? Check the connection once again (p. 12). * The power will not turn on without a plug connected to the INPUT jack.

ME-20_e.book 38

Numerics
099 ms DELAY.. 100700 ms DELAY.. AUX IN

.. 18 17

Bank.. 23, BLUES.. Bypass.. CHORUS. COMPRESSOR..
Manual mode. 910, 23, MASTER LEVEL. 9, Memory mode. 910, 23, METAL.. MOD... Modulation..

Noise Suppressor. NS..

DC IN... 10 DELAY.. 19 Display... 8 DISTORTION.. 17 Effect.. 16 Effect Select.. 8 Effect/Number Pedal. 9 EQ.. 20 Equalizer. 20 EDIT/EXIT.. 8 Expression Pedal. 9, 30 EZ EDIT.. 8, 22 Factory Reset. FLANGER.. FOOT SW.. Foot Switch Pedal. Footswitch.. FUZZ...
OD/DS.. OD/DS SOLO.. 9, OUTPUT. OVERDRIVE..
Parameter. 7, 16 Patch... 23 Patch Change.. 25 Patch Edit Mode. 26 Pedal Indicator.. 9 PHASER. 18 PHONES. 10

REVERB.. ROTARY.

Saving.. 2324 SOLO... 16

Headphone

THRESHOLD.. TREMOLO.. Tuner... Tuning..

WAH Write

.. 9, 21.. 8, 24

ME-20_e.book 39

For EU Countries

ME-20_e.book 40

For EU Countries This product complies with the requirements of European Directive 89/336/EEC.

For the USA

FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION RADIO FREQUENCY INTERFERENCE STATEMENT
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. This device complies with Part 15 of the 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. Unauthorized changes or modification to this system can void the users authority to operate this equipment. This equipment requires shielded interface cables in order to meet FCC class B Limit.

For Canada

NOTICE
This Class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations.