Source Audio ZIO User Manual

SA272 ZIO Analog Bass Preamp + D.I. User Guide
1
USER’S GUIDE
Welcome
Thank you for purchasing the ZIO Bass! ZIO Bass is an all-analog bass-tuned preamp & boost with audio,
direct (XLR) and headphone outputs for ultimate flexibility when optimizing your bass rig. ZIO Bass
utilizes the same high-quality, low-noise Burr Brown OP-amps as the original guitar-focused ZIO,
expressly selected and tuned for maximum performance on bass. We reunited with our good friend and
collaborator, Christopher Venter of SHOE Pedals, who worked on the original ZIO, Atlas Compressor, and
other previous Source Audio effects to create this homage to the bass-playing tonal connoisseur.
ZIO Bass incorporates a fully featured EQ section, allowing the player to perfectly shape their bass’s low
and high-end response. The BASS and FOCUS knobs are two highly interactive controls that define the
tone of your note fundamentals: a 100Hz-boosting shelving and a sweeping high-pass filter create a
custom peak response when combined. The TREBLE control is an active cut/boost shelf set to 1kHz
focused on dampening or accentuating harmonic overtones. ZIO Bass also features two optional circuits:
the GRIT and SCOOP toggle switches. GRIT introduces a warm, organic, transformer-style distortion
caused by the effect “hysteresis”, the level of which can be set by the GAIN trim pot. SCOOP removes
some lower midrange frequencies that have the potential to overpower the signal.
The word "ZIO" is an acronym for Impedance (Z), Input (I), and Output (O). The goal in creating this
pedal remains the same: we wanted to “make everything sound better.” We hope you’ll agree.
—The Source Audio Team

Source Audio ZIO Specifications

General

Brand	Source Audio
Model	ZIO
Category	Music Pedal
Language	English

Summary

Welcome

Feature Overview

Up to +16dB of Output Boost

Boost your output level heading into your amplifier, interface, FOH, or other output destination.

High Headroom Design

Utilizes two +/- 12 V internal supply rails for maximum headroom and dynamic range.

Buffered Bypass

Features discrete, high-quality buffers for bypassing the signal path architecture.

Compact Design

Anodized bent aluminum housing, slim profile, and small footprint for rigors of the road.

Discrete Analog Circuitry

Utilizes high-quality Burr Brown OP-amps, tuned for maximum performance.

Analog Distortion Section

Recreate transformer-style vintage amp distortion with GRIT toggle switch.

Low-End Sculpting

Use BASS and FOCUS controls for detailed low-end contouring.

Discrete Headphone Output

Optional headphone output for silent home or on-the-go playing.

Connecting the Pedal

Power Connection

Connect a 9V DC negative-tipped power supply to the DC 9V jack on the back panel.

Input Jack

Primary input for bass/instruments; accepts line-level inputs or amp effects loop.

Output Side Connections

Main OUTPUT

Primary audio output for amplifier, recording interface, or next device in effects chain.

Headphone Output

High dynamic range, low-noise amplifier for driving low impedance studio headphones.

DIRECT OUT

Balanced XLR Output for easy connectivity to audio interface, mixing console, PA.

Ground Lift Switch

Lifts internal ground for DIRECT OUT to reduce hum or buzzing.

GAIN Trim Pot

Adjusts distortion level for GRIT toggle switch when set ON.

Power Connections

DC 9V (Power) Requirements

Must be regulated, 9V DC, tip-negative, source at least 200mA.

High Voltage = High Headroom

Internal 24V operation provides higher clean headroom than traditional stomp-boxes.

Controls

OUTPUT Knob

Master volume control; boosts +16dB or cuts -6dB; can create 'underdrive'.

BASS Knob

Low-end boost (shelving filter at 100Hz); boosts up to +11dB, cannot cut low end.

TREBLE Knob

TREBLE Control Function

Shelving filter at 1kHz; boosts 1kHz+ by +14dB or cuts by -6dB.

GRIT Toggle Switch

GRIT Function

2-way ON/OFF toggle for vintage bass amp transformer-like distortion.

Adjusting GRIT Gain

Use Phillips screwdriver to adjust external trim pot for desired distortion level.

FOCUS Knob

FOCUS Control Function

High-pass filter control; moves bass-cutting filter right into higher frequencies.

SCOOP Toggle Switch

SCOOP Function

Mid-scoop circuit emulates Pultec EQ trick; low-mid cut, subtle bass boost, high-freq shift.

Specifications

Dimensions

Details physical measurements: Length, Width, Height, Weight.

Power Requirements

Specifies current draw (140mA/200mA) at 9VDC.

Troubleshooting

Noise/Hum Issues

Addresses power source, near noise, other equipment, bad cables, ground loops.

Dead Unit / No LEDs

Troubleshoots power supply issues causing unit to appear dead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Instrument Compatibility

Discusses compatibility with basses, guitars, synths, and other electric instruments.

Phantom Power Protection

Confirms Zener diodes protect against phantom power.

Effects Loop Usage

Guidance on using the ZIO Bass in an amp's effects loop.

Rubber Feet

Warranty

Limited Transferrable Warranty

Details warranty coverage, duration, and transferability for USA purchases.

Warranty Information

Service and Repairs

Explains how to obtain service or repair, including return authorization.

Disclaimer and Limitation

Outlines warranty limitations, exclusions, and legal rights.

Version History