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Initial warm-up period for the Memory Boy, affecting delay time stability.
Controls delay time (30-550ms) and pitch when adjusted; sets max time for expression pedal.
Adjusts modulation amount; fully counter-clockwise turns off modulation.
Wet/dry mix control for output signal; full clockwise is 100% Wet, counter-clockwise is 100% Dry.
Controls echo repetitions; maximum setting causes self-oscillation.
Sets the shape of the analog modulation waveform (smooth or stepped).
Selects modulation rate or allows expression pedal to control it.
How expression pedal affects delay time, working with the DELAY knob.
Toggles effect/bypass modes; LED indicates status.
Connects instrument or effect pedal output to the 1/4" jack.
Connects the Memory Boy output to an amplifier or other effects pedal.
Connects expression pedal or control voltage; requires specific polarity.
Connects supplied adapter; requires 9VDC center-negative, 45mA.
Register online or return card within 10 days for repair/replacement.
Contact EHX Customer Service for RA#, problem description, and receipt.
Provides contact information for US/Canada and Europe warranty inquiries.
Explains compliance with Class B digital device limits and potential interference.
Steps to correct radio/TV interference if equipment causes it.
The Electro-Harmonix Memory Boy is an analog delay pedal with chorus and vibrato modulation, designed to provide a smooth, vintage-inspired delay effect. It draws its heritage from classic 1970s Electro-Harmonix delay units like the Memory Man and Deluxe Memory Man, expanding on their capabilities with additional modulation and external control options.
The core function of the Memory Boy is to create analog delay effects, ranging from subtle echoes to runaway self-oscillation. It also incorporates modulation capabilities, allowing users to add chorus or vibrato effects to the delayed signal. An optional expression pedal input further enhances its versatility by enabling real-time control over key parameters.
To use the Memory Boy, connect your instrument's output to the pedal's INPUT jack and the pedal's OUTPUT jack to your amplifier's input. The pedal can be integrated with other effects devices, offering flexibility in sound design. The true bypass footswitch allows for seamless switching between the effect and a clean, unaffected signal.
Upon powering on, the Memory Boy requires approximately 20 seconds to fully warm up. During this warm-up period, especially when the DELAY knob is set above 50%, you may notice the delay time slowly increasing. After about 20 seconds, the pedal stabilizes to the delay time set by the DELAY knob.
DELAY Knob: This knob controls the delay time, offering a range from 30 milliseconds to 550 milliseconds. Turning the DELAY knob clockwise increases the delay time. Adjusting this knob while echoes are present will cause a pitch-bending effect on your notes. The DELAY knob also serves to set the maximum delay time when an expression pedal is used for control.
DEPTH Knob: This control adjusts the amount of modulation applied to the delayed signal. Turning it clockwise increases the intensity of the modulation. To completely disable modulation, turn the DEPTH knob fully counter-clockwise.
BLEND Knob: The BLEND knob acts as a wet/dry mix control, allowing you to balance the direct (unaffected) signal with the delayed signal at the OUTPUT jack. Turning it fully clockwise results in a 100% wet output (only delayed signal), while turning it fully counter-clockwise provides a 100% dry output (only direct signal). Intermediate settings mix the two signals.
FEEDBACK Knob: This knob controls the amount of delayed signal that is fed back into the delay circuit, influencing the number of echoes. Turning it clockwise increases the number of repeats. Setting the FEEDBACK knob to its maximum position can cause the Memory Boy to self-oscillate, creating a continuous, sustained sound. For a single echo per note, turn the FEEDBACK knob fully counter-clockwise. High feedback settings combined with short delay times can produce a reverb-like effect.
Triangle / Square Toggle Switch: This two-position switch determines the waveform shape of the analog modulation. For this switch to have an audible effect, the DEPTH knob must be turned up.
CHORUS, VIBRATO & EXP. PEDAL Toggle Switch: This three-position, dual-function toggle switch serves two purposes: it sets the modulation rate and selects the parameter controlled by an expression pedal.
MODULATION RATE (without expression pedal):
EXPRESSION PEDAL CONTROL (with expression pedal plugged in):
The footswitch below the LED toggles between effect mode and true bypass mode. When the status LED is lit, the Memory Boy is in effect mode. When the LED is off, the Memory Boy is in true bypass mode.
The EXP. PEDAL jack allows for control using an optional expression pedal or a control voltage. The expression pedal should have a Tip-Ring-Sleeve plug, and it is crucial that the polarity is correct, with the tip connected to the wiper of the potentiometer inside the pedal. If unsure, consider purchasing an expression pedal with a polarity switch for broader compatibility. Compatible expression pedals include the Moog EP-2, M-Audio EX-P, or Roland EV-5. A control voltage between 0V and 5V can also be used.
The Memory Boy requires a 9VDC power supply with a center-negative polarity. It draws 45mA of current. An AC adaptor is supplied with the unit. For portable use, an optional 9V alkaline battery can be installed internally, providing approximately 3 to 4 hours of use. It is important to use only alkaline batteries with the Memory Boy.
It is crucial to use only the 96DC-200BI adapter supplied with the Memory Boy. Using other adapters, even those from Electro-Harmonix, could potentially damage the unit, the adapter, or cause harm to the user.
The Memory Boy comes with a one-year warranty from the date of purchase, covering defects in materials or workmanship. This warranty applies to original purchasers who bought the product from an authorized Electro-Harmonix retailer. Repaired or replaced units will be warranted for the remainder of the original warranty term. For service within the warranty period, customers should contact EHX Customer Service for a Return Authorization Number (RA#) before returning the product. The returned unit should include a written description of the problem, contact information, the RA#, and a copy of the purchase receipt.
The device has been tested and found to comply with Class B digital device limits under FCC Rules Part 15, designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in residential installations. If the equipment causes harmful interference to radio or television reception, users are encouraged to try measures such as reorienting the receiving antenna, increasing separation between equipment and receiver, connecting the equipment to a different circuit outlet, or consulting a dealer/technician. Unauthorized modifications could void the user's authority to operate the equipment under FCC rules.
General| Type | Analog Delay |
|---|---|
| Technology | Bucket Brigade Device (BBD) |
| Modulation | Yes |
| Modulation Waveform | Triangle |
| Power Supply | 9V DC (negative center) |
| Weight | 1.5 lbs |
| Bypass | True Bypass |
| Input Impedance | 1MΩ |
| Output Impedance | 1kΩ |
| Controls | Delay, Feedback, Rate, Depth |
| Expression Pedal Control | Yes |
