Operation Manual Contents Safety Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Terms Used in This Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Inserting the Batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Controls and Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Safety Precautions In this manual, symbols are used to highlight warnings and cautions for you to read so that accidents can be prevented. The meanings of these symbols are as follows: This symbol indicates explanations about extremely dangerous matters. If users ignore this symbol and handle the device incorrectly, serious injury or death could result. This symbol indicates explanations about dangerous matters.
Introduction Thank you for selecting the ZOOM PFX-9003 Palmtop Effects Processor (simply called the "PFX-9003" in this manual). This product is a sophisticated device with the following features: • Multiple effects in a palm-sized unit Although the PFX-9003 is extremely compact and weighs a mere 130 grams (without batteries), it offers a host of sophisticated functions. It is a multieffect processor, with 60 types of effects available of which up to 10 can be used simultaneously.
Terms Used in This Manual This section explains some important terms that are used in this manual. ■ Effect module An "effect module" works like a stand-alone compact effect device for tailoring certain aspects of the sound. As shown in the illustration below, the PFX-9003 can be thought of as a series of such effect modules. INPUT OUTPUT COMP DRIVE ZNR EQ MOD REV ■ Effect types and parameters Different types of sound within a module are called effect types.
Inserting the Batteries ■ ARRM (Auto-Repeat Real-time Modulation) The newly developed ARRM Wah frequency feature lets you vary effect Wa.. Wa.. Wa.. parameters in real time, using internally generated control waveforms whose level changes periodically. For example, if you control the wah effect with ..ah ..ah ARRM, the wah frequency will go Time up and down. The ARRM modulation speed is synchronized to the rhythm pattern tempo.
Controls and Functions Top panel Sliders 1 - 3 Display Built-in mic [MIC] key [RHYTHM] key [SAMPLER] key [TUNER/ BYPASS] key [STORE/ EXECUTE] key CURSOR [Q]/[W]/ [E]/[R] keys PATCH [Q]/[W] keys [EDIT/CANCEL] key 6 ZOOM PFX-9003
Controls and Functions Front panel [OUTPUT] jack [INPUT] jack [PHONES] jack [AUX IN] jack Left side panel [DC 9V] jack [POWER] switch [VOLUME] control Right side panel [AUX CENTER CANCEL] switch ZOOM PFX-9003 7
Getting Connected By connecting the output of a CD/MD player or similar to the [AUX IN] jack, the signal from the player can be mixed to the sound of your instrument. The combined signal is supplied at the [OUTPUT] jack, but the signal from the [AUX IN] jack is not subject to effect processing. This signal can be used as sampling source. CD player Front panel Connect the [OUTPUT] jack to an audio system or other playback system.
Getting Connected By setting the [AUX CENTER CANCEL] switch to ON, the stereo signal from the AUX IN jack is processed so that the sound positioned in the center (such as a vocal, lead guitar, bass, or kick drum track or similar) is attenuated. Right side panel [AUX IN] jack [INPUT] jack [PHONES] jack Guitar Bass guitar Headphones Connect the output of the guitar or bass guitar to the [INPUT] jack.
Quick Guide (1) This section explains some of the basic operation steps of the PFX-9003. Turn power on Set the [POWER] switch on the left side panel to ON, and then turn power to the playback system on. When you turn on the PFX-9003, it is in play mode. In this mode, you can select patches for playing. Display in play mode Patch name Bank 9003DR Patch number A0 * To turn power off, reverse the above sequence.
Quick Guide (1) Adjust the sound of the patch In play mode, you can use the sliders 1 - 3 to adjust the sound of the patch. Adjusts the distortion intensity of the DRIVE module. Adjusts a major parameter of the MOD module. Adjusts a major parameter of the REV module. * Adjustments you have made are lost when you switch to another patch. Be sure to store the patch if you want to keep the changes. Store the patch If you have made adjustments to the sound of a patch, you can store it to retain the setting.
Quick Guide (2) Using the tuner and rhythm functions This section explains how to use the tuner function and rhythm function of the PFX-9003. Using the tuner To use the tuner function, press the [TUNER/BYPASS] key in play mode. When you press the [TUNER/BYPASS] key briefly, the PFX-9003 goes into the bypass condition (patches are temporarily turned off), and the chromatic tuner function can be used. When you play an open string in this condition, the name of the nearest note will appear on the display.
Quick Guide (2) Using the tuner and rhythm functions Using the rhythm function To play a rhythm pattern, press the [RHYTHM] key. Rhythm playback starts. In play mode, the following information appears on the display. Pattern name 8BEAT 3 While playing a rhythm pattern in play mode, the following controls can be used to select the rhythm pattern type and to adjust volume and tempo. Switches rhythm patterns. Adjusts the rhythm tempo (BPM). Adjusts the rhythm level.
Playing Patches (Play Mode) The condition where you call up patches stored in the memory of the PFX9003 and use them for playing your instrument is called play mode. When you turn the PFX-9003 on, it is initially always in this mode. The various things you can do in play mode are described in this section. Display in play mode In play mode, the display shows the following information.
Playing Patches (Play Mode) HINT If you hold down one of the PATCH [Q]/[W] keys and then also press the opposite key, the patches will be switched faster. 2. To directly switch banks, use the CURSOR [Q]/[W] keys. The CURSOR [Q] key switches to the next higher bank and the CURSOR [W] key to the next lower bank. NOTE While a rhythm pattern is playing, banks cannot be switched directly.
Playing Patches (Play Mode) When you operate one of the sliders, the name of the parameter and the current setting are shown briefly on the display. The approximate setting for sliders 1 – 3 can also be seen from the bar graphs in the lower part of the display. Parameter name GAIN 25 Parameter value Approximate setting of sliders 1 – 3 The "ED" indication shows that a parameter has been edited. When the parameter is returned to its original value, the indication disappears. 2.
Playing Patches (Play Mode) Using the built-in mic The PFX-9003 has a built-in high-sensitivity microphone. You can use the mic to pick up the sound of an acoustic guitar or vocal, and use effect processing on that sound in the same way you would use the [INPUT] jack. When one of the following three conditions is met, the built-in mic can be used and the mic symbol appears on the display.
Playing Patches (Play Mode) Rhythm pattern playback starts. The display briefly shows the name of the currently selected patch. The [RHYTHM] key LED flashes in sync with the tempo of the pattern. Pattern name 8BEAT 3 [RHYTHM] key 2. To change rhythm related parameters, use the CURSOR [Q]/ [W]/[E]/[R] keys and the sliders 1 – 3. While a rhythm pattern is playing, the following controls are assigned to rhythm parameters. Select a rhythm pattern. Change the rhythm pattern tempo in 1 BPM steps.
Playing Patches (Play Mode) Rhythm pattern list Rhythm pattern Display Rhythm pattern 8 BEAT 1 1 DANCE 1 8 BEAT 2 2 DANCE 2 8BEAT Display 1 DANCE 2 3 DANCE 3 3 8 BEAT 4 4 FUNK 1 1 8 BEAT 5 5 FUNK 2 8 BEAT SHUFFLE 1 1 BALLAD 1 2 BALLAD 2 16 BEAT 1 1 BLUES 1 16 BEAT 2 2 BLUES 2 8 BEAT 3 8 BEAT SHUFFLE 2 16 BEAT 3 8SHUFL 16BEAT 16 BEAT 4 16 BEAT SHUFFLE 3/4 6/8 ROCK 5/4 5/4 COUNTRY CONTRY BOSSA NOVA BOSSA JAZZ 1 JAZZ 2 1 2 ROCK'n ROLL 2 2 ROCK 1 1 ROCK ROCK 2
Using the Tuner (Tuner Mode) The PFX-9003 incorporates a versatile tuner that can also accommodate 7string guitar and other unconventional tunings. The tuner function becomes available when the unit is set to the bypass condition (effects temporarily turned off) or mute condition (effects and direct sound turned off). Using the chromatic tuner 1. To set the PFX-9003 to the tuner mode, press the [TUNER/ BYPASS] key in play mode.
Using the Tuner (Tuner Mode) closest to the current pitch. The dot (●) symbols in the lower section of the display let you check the pitch. Note name A CR Pitch sharp/flat indication Pitch is flat Correct pitch Pitch is sharp Tune the string to achieve the desired note. 3. Tune the other strings in the same way. 4. To return to play mode, press the [EDIT/CANCEL] key. Using other tuning types The PFX-9003 allows various other tuning types besides chromatic tuning.
Using the Tuner (Tuner Mode) Tuning type GUITAR BASS OPEN-A OPEN-D OPEN-E OPEN-G DADGA (D modal) String/note name 6E 5A 4D 3G 4E 3A 2D 1G 6E 5A 4E 3A 6D 5A 4D 3F# 6E 5B 4E 3G# 6D 5G 4D 3G 6D 5A 4D 3G 2B 1E 7B 5B 2C# 2A 1D 2B 1E 2B 1D 2A 1D 1E For example, when GUITAR has been selected as tuning type, the display shows the string number and the target note. String number Target note 6E GT Tuning type 2. Play the indicated string as an open string, and perform tuning. 3.
Using the Tuner (Tuner Mode) down" tuning which is a semitone lower, or "full-step down" tuning which is two semitones lower. 1. In tuner mode, press one of the CURSOR [E]/[R] keys. The current reference pitch is shown briefly on the display. If the unit is in the default condition after power-on, this is center A = 440 Hz. 440HZ 2. While the reference pitch is shown, you can use the CURSOR [E]/[R] keys to change the pitch. The available range is center A = 435 – 445 Hz, in 1-Hz steps. 435HZ 3.
Using the Sampler Function The PFX-9003 has a built-in sampler which allows you to easily record and play up to 30 seconds of the input signal at the [INPUT] jack or [AUX IN] jack. During playback, it is also possible to change the play tempo without altering the pitch. This is convenient for learning a fast guitar phrase. 1. Connect the sampling source (instrument or other device) to the [INPUT] jack or the [AUX IN] jack (see page 8 – 9). 2.
Using the Sampler Function In sampler mode, the PATCH [Q]/[W] keys function as Play/Stop and Rec keys. Therefore patches cannot be switched until the unit returns to play mode. 3. Use slider 1 to select one of the following two sources. • GT MIC The signal from the [INPUT] jack (if the [MIC] key is out) or the built-in mic (if the [MIC] key is lit or flashing) is used as sampler source. • AUX The signal from the [AUX IN] jack is used as sampler source.
Using the Sampler Function SPMODE N1 • n1 Normal speed playback • n2 Half tempo, half pitch playback • P2 Half tempo, normal pitch playback • n4 Quarter tempo, quarter pitch playback • P4 Quarter tempo, normal pitch playback 7. Use the PATCH [W] key and the CURSOR [E]/[R] keys to control playback start/stop and rewind/forward. When the sampler mode has been activated for the first time, pressing the PATCH [W] key will play the recorded sample once (one-shot playback).
Using the Sampler Function 9. To perform repeat playback of the sample, specify the repeat start and end points with the [SAMPLER] key while the playback sound is heard. If you press the [SAMPLER] key once during sample playback, that point is specified as start point. By pressing the key once more, you can specify the end point. Repeat playback is then performed between the start and end points. During repeat playback, the dot (●) symbol of the ARRM module is shown.
Changing the Sound of a Patch (Edit Mode) The edit mode allows you to freely alter the parameters that make up a patch, so that you can create your own patches. This section describes how to do this. Patch configuration As shown below, the PFX-9003 consists of a series of single effects (effect modules). A patch is a stored combination of modules, each with their distinct parameter settings.
Changing the Sound of a Patch (Edit Mode) parameter PATLVL (patch level) of the TOTAL module will be selected. 3. Use the CURSOR [E]/[R] keys to select the module that you want to edit. Modules for editing are switched in the order shown below. Modules with many parameters (DRIVE, EQ, ARRM etc.) have multiple pages for making parameter settings. For such modules, the CURSOR [E]/[R] keys can be used to switch between pages.
Changing the Sound of a Patch (Edit Mode) 5. To change the effect type for the selected effect module, press one of the CURSOR [Q]/[W] keys while the effect type is displayed. HALL 6. To change the parameter value, operate sliders 1 – 3. In edit mode, sliders 1 – 3 are assigned to various parameters. When you operate a slider, the name of the assigned parameter and its current setting appear on the display.
Changing the Sound of a Patch (Edit Mode) HINT If you press one of the PATCH [Q]/[W] keys, the value of the currently displayed parameter is increases or decreases. This method is convenient to make small adjustments. 8. Repeat steps 3 – 7 to edit other modules in the same way. 9. To terminate the edit mode, press the [EDIT/CANCEL] key. The unit returns to play mode. If any patch has been changed, the indication "ED" is shown.
Changing the Sound of a Patch (Edit Mode) The following characters are assigned to sliders 1 – 3. Slider 1 Slider 2 A–Z 0–9 Slider 3 (Space) +- HINT You can also press one of the PATCH [Q]/[W] keys to change the characters one by one. 3. Repeat step 2 to complete the patch name. When the name is as desired, press the [EDIT/CANCEL] key to return to the play mode. NOTE To enable the new patch name, be sure to perform the store operation (see page 33).
Storing and Swapping Patches (Store Mode) This section describes how to store an edited patch in the memory of the PFX-9003, and how to swap patches in the user banks. 1. In play mode or edit mode, press the [STORE/EXECUTE] key. The PFX-9003 goes into the store standby mode. The patch name and the indications "STORE" or"SWAP" are shown alternately on the display. In the top right of the display, the store target user bank and patch number are shown.
Storing and Swapping Patches (Store Mode) NOTE If the original patch is from a preset bank, the "SWAP" option cannot be selected. 3. Use the CURSOR [Q]/[W] keys and the PATCH [Q]/[W] keys to select the bank and patch number of the store/swap target. NOTE A preset bank cannot be selected as store target. If you press the [STORE] key while a patch from a preset bank is selected, the selection automatically changes to "A0" (patch number 0 in user bank A). 4. Press the [STORE] key once more.
Using the ARRM Function The ARRM function utilizes various control waveforms (sawtooth, sine wave, triangle, square) generated internally by the PFX-9003 to cyclically modify effect parameters. The volume, DRIVE module, MOD module, or REV module can be selected as control target. When the DRIVE module, MOD module, or REV module are selected, the effect parameter that is actually controlled by the ARRM function depends on the currently selected effect type.
Using the ARRM Function ASSIGN When page 1 of the ARRM module is selected, sliders 1 – 3 control the following parameters. Slider 1 ASSIGN parameter (control target) Slider 3 MODE parameter (direction and range of change at control target) Slider 2 MINVOL parameter (valid volume setting when control target is volume and MODE parameter is Hi or Lo) 3. Use slider 1 to select the control target from the following options. • vL (volume) The ARRM function controls the volume of the entire patch.
Using the ARRM Function 5. Use slider 3 to set the direction and range of the change at the control target. • UP The parameter changes from the minimum value to the maximum value according to the level change of the control waveform. • dn As for UP, the parameter changes from the minimum value to the maximum value, but in opposite relation to the level change of the control waveform. (When the control waveform is maximum, the parameter is minimum, and vice versa.
Using the ARRM Function 6. Press the CURSOR [R] key once to call up page 2 of the ARRM module. On page 2 of the ARRM module, the following parameters are assigned to sliders 1 and 2. Slider 1 WAVE parameter (control waveform type) Slider 2 SYNC parameter (control waveform cycle) 7. 8. Use slider 1 to select the control waveform type. The following choices are available.
Using the ARRM Function 9. Call up the control target module and adjust the effect type and parameter as necessary. For information about the parameter that can be controlled by ARRM when the DRIVE, MOD, or REV module is selected, see page 42. 10. When the setting is complete, press the [EDIT/CANCEL] key to return to the play mode. The ARRM function settings are stored separately for each patch. Store the patch if you want to retain the settings. 11. Check the effect while playing your instrument.
Other Functions Returning the unit to the factory default settings The patches in the user banks can be returned to their original condition at any time, even if you have changed them. There are two ways of restoring factory defaults. "All Initialize" returns all user bank patches to the original condition. "Factory Recall" restores only a specific patch to the original condition. 1. Turn power to the PFX-9003 on while holding down the [STORE/ EXECUTE] key. The indication "ALINIT" appears on the display.
Other Functions Turning the backlight off When using the PFX-9003 on batteries, you can extend battery life by turning the display backlight off. Proceed as follows. 1. Turn power to the PFX-9003 on while holding down the CURSOR [W] key. CURSOR [W] key The PFX-9003 will operate without the display backlight. 2. To activate the backlight again, turn the unit off and then on again.
Effect Types and Parameters In this section, all effect types and parameters of the modules in the PFX-9003 are explained. The effect types and parameters that can be used in each module are listed below. The [A] symbol indicates that this parameter can be assigned to the ARRM function. The parameters shown in black reverse are assigned to sliders in play mode. ◆ COMP module COMP LIMIT Compressor module that serves to keep signal levels within a certain range.
Effect Types and Parameters * Parameters for type SANS B to type 9002 are the same. SANS B CR TS GV MTZONE 9002 Trebly drive sound for bass. Model simulation of vintage crunch. Model simulation of vintage overdrive. Model simulation of vintage distortion. High-gain distortion with rich sustain. Simulates the ZOOM 9002 distortion.
Effect Types and Parameters Combo 2: The sound of a combo-type guitar amp with two 12 inch speakers. C2 Combo 3: The sound of a combo-type guitar amp with one 10 inch speaker. C3 Gt Stack: The sound of a stack-type guitar amp with four 10 inch speakers. GS Gt Wall: The sound of multiple stack-type amps placed together. GW Bs Combo: The sound of a combo-type bass amp with one 15 inch speaker. bC Bs Combo: The sound of a stack-type bass amp with four 6.5 inch speakers. bS Table 3: COLOR Flat response.
Effect Types and Parameters TREMOL A-PAN Periodically varies the level of the sound. Parameter 1: DEPTH Parameter 1: WIDTH A-WAH F-WAH STEP PITCH RING-M SLOW-A FILTER DELAY ECHO T-TRIP TRMCHO RINVIB VIBE EXCIT AIR WIDE Parameter 3: CLIP Parameter 2: RATE [A] This stereo panning effect periodically moves the sound back and forth between right and left when two amplifiers are used. When one amplifier is used, the effect causes a tremolo sound.
Effect Types and Parameters ARRM-P Uses the ARRM function to shift the pitch. Parameter 1: TYPE Parameter description Parameter name Setting range 0 – 10 (other than EXCIT) DEPTH 0 – 30 (EXCIT) 1 – 30 RATE MIX FB 0 – 30 Parameter 3: TONE Explanation Adjusts the effect depth. Adjusts the effect speed. Adjusts the balance between direct sound and effect sound. -10 – 10 (FLANGE, T-TRIP) Adjusts the feedback amount. 0 – 10 (DELAY, ECHO) Selects the connection point of the MOD module.
Effect Types and Parameters LOWBST SIZE WETLVL DRYLVL 0 – 10 1 – 10 0 – 30 0 – 30 Emphasizes the low frequency range. TYPE 1 – 16 Selects the pitch change type caused by ARRM (see table 4). Adjusts the size of the simulated space. Adjusts the effect sound mixing amount. Adjusts the direct sound mixing amount.
Effect Types and Parameters LNGDLY DLYHAL DLYROM Mono delay with a maximum delay time of up to 7 seconds. Parameter 1: TIME Parameter 2: FB Parameter 1: DLYTIM Parameter 2: DLYMIX [A] Parameter 3: REVMIX Combined delay and room reverb effect. Parameter 1: DLYTIM Parameter 2: DLYMIX [A] Parameter 3: REVMIX Simulates the air ambience of a room and gives depth to the sound. AIR Parameter 1: SIZE WIDE Parameter 2: TONE Parameter 3: MIX [A] Simulates a stereo recording with two mics.
Effect Types and Parameters ◆ ARRM module Varies parameters cyclically according to the control waveform from an internal generator. Parameter 1: ASSIGN Parameter 4: WAVE Parameter 2: MINVOL Parameter 5: SYNC Parameter description Parameter name Setting range ASSIGN vL, GA, Md, rv MINVOL 0 – 10 MODE WAVE SYNC UP, dn, Hi, Lo 1 – 8 0.5 – 3, b1 – b4 Parameter 3: MODE Explanation Selects the control target module. (See table 6.) Sets the minimum volume when the ASSIGN parameter is set to VOL.
Effect Types and Parameters Patch list Bank A " Modeling 1 " No Name Distortion 0 9003DR 1 RCT-BG For picking 2 9002LD For lead 3 STNDRD Clean 4 F-TWED Crunch 5 J-CHO Clean 6 ARMWAH Effect 7 BEATON Crunch 8 ARPEG Clean 9 JIMVIB Crunch Bank B " Modeling 2 " No Name 0 BLACK For backing 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 BALLAD P-ARRM TWIN ARMPIT CLN-CH MATCRU SNAKE NYFSN WDFUZZ Distortion Effect For backing Effect Clean Crunch Distortion Clean Effect 50 Powerful distinct sound High-gain amp sound of the American-made
Effect Types and Parameters Bank C " Acustic " No Name 0 AG-CHO 1 AG-REV 2 AG-LIV Built-in mic 3 AG-BRT Built-in mic 4 AG-SOL Built-in mic 5 VO-ECH Built-in mic 6 VO-ROK Built-in mic 7 VO-BLD Built-in mic 8 VO-JAM Built-in mic 9 VO-LOF Built-in mic Bank D " Bass " No Name 0 B-PICK Bass 1 B-OD Bass 2 B-DRV Bass 3 B-FNGR Bass 4 B-SLAP Bass 5 B-FLNG Bass 6 B-ROCK Bass 7 B-BIG Bass 8 B-WAH Bass 9 B-COMP Bass ZOOM PFX-9003 Chorus sound for electroacoustic guitar.
Effect Types and Parameters Bank E " Guitar Variation 1 " No Name 0 CMPCLN Clean 1 FUNKCT Clean 2 FD-CLN Clean 3 RCKBLY Clean 4 ELEACO Clean 5 AG-KeyD Off-color 6 AG-KeyG Off-color 7 BOTTLE Off-color 8 MATDRV Distortion 9 PS-DRV Distortion Bank F " Guitar Variation 2 " No Name 0 CMB-BG Distortion 1 MIDDRV Distortion 2 LATNRK Distortion 3 BR-DRV Distortion 4 CRY-LD Effect 5 PITSFT Effect 6 50SRNB Effect 7 SE-SFX Effect 8 SL-ATK Effect 9 ZAKWAH Effect 52 Natural compression sound Funky cutting sound
Troubleshooting ■ No sound, or very low volume • Is the power switch set to ON? Verify that correct batteries are inserted or AC adapter is connected, and then turn power on. • Are [INPUT] jack and [OUTPUT] jack connected correctly to instrument and amplifier? Refer to "Getting Connected" on page 8 and establish correct connections. Check power status and volume settings at instrument and amplifier. • Is the shielded cable defective? Try replacing the cable.
Specifications Effect programs Sampling frequency A/D converter D/A converter 60 types Max. simultaneous use: 10 types 7 modules Max. simultaneous use: 7 modules User: 6 banks x 10 patches = 60 patches Preset: 6 banks x 10 patches = 60 patches Total 120 patches 31.
Specifications Usage Precautions • Electrical interference For safety considerations, the PFX-9003 has been designed to provide maximum protection against the emission of electromagnetic radiation from inside the device, and protection from external interference. However, equipment that is very susceptible to interference or that emits powerful electromagnetic waves should not be placed near the PFX-9003, as the possibility of interference cannot be ruled out entirely.
ZOOM CORPORATION NOAH Bldg., 2-10-2, Miyanishi-cho, Fuchu-shi, Tokyo 183-0022, Japan PHONE: +81-42-369-7116 FAX: +81-42-369-7115 Web Site: http://www.zoom.co.