Fender Mustang Micro - User Manual

OWNER’S MANUAL

Summary

Introduction

Fender Mustang Micro Features

Rotating Input Plug

Standard 1/4" plug rotates up to 270 degrees for easy compatibility with all popular guitar models.

Master Volume Control

Thumbwheel control adjusts instrument and overall output level to headphones/earbuds or recording software.

Amplifier Selection Buttons

Buttons (-/+) select amplifier from 12 models. LED color indicates amp model in use.

EQ Adjustment Buttons

Buttons (-/+) adjust tone with five settings. LED color indicates EQ setting in use.

Effects Selection Buttons

Buttons (-/+) select effect from 12 options. LED color indicates effect model in use.

Effect Parameter Modify Buttons

Buttons (-/+) control one parameter of the selected effect. LED color indicates parameter setting.

Power and Bluetooth Switch

Three-position slider switch turns unit on/off and activates Bluetooth. LED indicates status.

Headphone Output Jack

Stereo headphone jack for connecting headphones or earbuds.

USB-C Connection Port

Used for charging, recording output, and firmware updates.

Connecting to Guitar and Powering Up

Selecting an Amplifier Model

Selecting an Effects Model

Modify Effects Settings

Setting Master Volume and EQ Controls

Bluetooth Connectivity and Operation

Device Charging Procedure

Recording Audio Output

Firmware Update Process

Performing a Factory Reset

Technical Specifications

Part Numbers and Compliance Information

Overview

1. Function Description
2. Usage Features
3. Maintenance Features

The Fender Mustang Micro is a compact, plug-and-play headphone amplifier and interface designed for guitar and bass players. It offers a wide array of amplifier and effects models, Bluetooth connectivity, and digital recording capabilities, all in a highly portable form factor no larger than a deck of cards. The device is battery-operated, providing up to six hours of playing time, making it ideal for practice on the go.

Function Description

The Mustang Micro serves as a personal practice tool and a direct interface for recording. It connects directly to any popular instrument model via its 1/4" rotating input plug, which can rotate up to 270 degrees for compatibility. Once connected, users can select from 12 different amplifier models, encompassing "clean," "crunch," "high-gain," and "direct" types. Each amp model is indicated by a unique LED color, which illuminates for 10 seconds upon selection before extinguishing.

Beyond amp models, the device offers 12 different effects models, including various reverbs, choruses, flangers, tremolos, delays, and combinations thereof. Similar to amp selection, each effect model is associated with a specific LED color for easy identification. A unique feature is the "Modify Effects" function, which allows users to control one particular parameter of the selected effect. There are six parameter settings available for each effect, including a middle default, two progressively weaker settings, and two progressively stronger settings. An effect-bypass setting is also available for an amp-only sound.

The Mustang Micro also includes an EQ control, which is post-amplifier, allowing users to adjust the tone. There are five EQ settings: a flat middle default, two progressively darker settings, and two progressively brighter settings, each indicated by a distinct LED color. The master volume is controlled by a thumbwheel, adjusting the instrument and overall output level to headphones/earbuds or recording software. It's important to note that the master volume only controls the instrument and overall output; the mix between an instrument and a Bluetooth audio source is determined by the external Bluetooth device's volume control.

Bluetooth capability is a core feature, enabling users to stream audio from smart devices to play along with music or practice to online instruction with synced audio and video. The device is discoverable as "Mustang Micro" and supports Bluetooth pairing.

For recording, the Mustang Micro can be used as an input device for digital recording software by connecting it to a user's Mac or PC via the USB-C jack. It serves as a source for USB audio, which can be routed back to Mustang Micro for monitoring.

Usage Features

• Plug-and-Play Operation: Simply rotate the 1/4" input plug and connect it to your guitar's input jack.
• Intuitive Controls: Dedicated buttons for AMP, EQ, EFFECTS, and MODIFY, each with LED indicators, make navigation and selection straightforward.
• Power On/Off and Bluetooth Activation: A three-position slider switch controls power and Bluetooth. Pushing and holding the switch to the Bluetooth position for two seconds activates pairing mode.
• Automatic Sleep Mode: If no instrument input is detected for 15 minutes while powered on, the device automatically enters a low-power "sleep mode" to conserve battery. Any button press will wake it up.
• Volume Control: A thumbwheel allows for easy adjustment of the master volume.
• LED Indicators: LEDs provide visual feedback for selected amp models, effect models, effect parameter settings, EQ settings, and power/Bluetooth/charging status.
• Firmware Updates: The device supports firmware updates via its USB-C jack, ensuring access to the latest features and improvements.
• Factory Reset: A factory reset function allows users to restore all buttons (AMP, EQ, EFFECTS, MODIFY) to their original factory values and clear the Bluetooth paired device list. This is initiated by simultaneously holding the EQ "-" (D) and EFFECTS "-" (E) buttons for three seconds.

Maintenance Features

• Charging: The Mustang Micro provides up to six hours of battery-powered operation. It is recharged via the USB-C jack on the bottom of the unit using the included USB cable.
• Charging Status Indicators: The POWER SWITCH LED indicates charging status through different colors and flashing patterns (e.g., solid yellow for charging, solid green for fully charged, flashing green/yellow/red for various battery levels when not connected to USB, and rapid red flashing for a battery charge error).
• Safe Operation: Users are advised to remove headphones/earbuds, turn off the device, or set the volume to zero when connecting or disconnecting the Mustang Micro to avoid loud noises and potential hearing damage. Gradual volume adjustment is recommended after turning the device on.
• Firmware Update Process: The manual outlines a clear procedure for firmware updates, including connecting the device to a computer via USB-C, pressing specific buttons, and observing LED indicators for update status (initiated, successful, or failed).
• Troubleshooting Charging Errors: In case of a rapid red flashing LED indicating a battery charge error, users are instructed to unplug the USB, turn off the unit, allow it to reach room temperature, and then restart.

Fender Mustang Micro Specifications