Wampler Clarksdale - User Manual

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Summary

Clarksdale Overdrive Introduction

Controls and Settings

True By-pass Relay Switch

Explains the benefits of the true-bypass relay switch for signal integrity and tone preservation.

Volume Control

Adjusts the output level, designed for higher output and headroom when needed.

Gain Control

Manages the amount of signal gain for smooth break-up to thick, vintage overdrive.

Smooth;Lift Switch

Toggle switch for 'Smooth' (mix) or 'Lift' (standout leads) settings.

Bass Control

Adjusts bass frequencies for tonal thickness, affecting brightness and low-end response.

Mids Control

Allows adjustment of midrange frequencies, offering flexibility beyond fixed mid-boosts.

Treble Control

Adjusts treble frequencies, impacting the overall brightness and clarity of the tone.

Suggested Settings Examples

Provides example control configurations for various tonal characteristics.

Summary

Clarksdale Overdrive Introduction

Controls and Settings

True By-pass Relay Switch

Explains the benefits of the true-bypass relay switch for signal integrity and tone preservation.

Volume Control

Adjusts the output level, designed for higher output and headroom when needed.

Gain Control

Manages the amount of signal gain for smooth break-up to thick, vintage overdrive.

Smooth;Lift Switch

Toggle switch for 'Smooth' (mix) or 'Lift' (standout leads) settings.

Bass Control

Adjusts bass frequencies for tonal thickness, affecting brightness and low-end response.

Mids Control

Allows adjustment of midrange frequencies, offering flexibility beyond fixed mid-boosts.

Treble Control

Adjusts treble frequencies, impacting the overall brightness and clarity of the tone.

Suggested Settings Examples

Provides example control configurations for various tonal characteristics.

This document describes the Clarksdale Overdrive pedal, a guitar effects pedal inspired by the birthplace of the Delta Blues, Clarksdale, Mississippi. It is designed to offer a transparent, versatile overdrive experience, distinguishing itself from traditional "screamer" type overdrives.

Function Description

The Clarksdale Overdrive is a guitar effects pedal that provides a transparent drive with usable gain, designed to avoid the "fizz out" often associated with other overdrives when cranked. It is Brian Wampler's interpretation of the famous TS circuit, incorporating Wampler-styled improvements to offer a wider range of tonal options. The pedal aims to be the last vintage midrange-infused overdrive a user will need, providing a versatile tool for various musical settings.

Important Technical Specifications

Circuitry: Based on the world-famous TS circuit, but with Wampler-styled improvements for enhanced versatility.
Bypass: Features a True By-pass Relay Switch, which utilizes a quieter and smoother switch compared to traditional bypass switches, ensuring the original tone/signal remains unaffected when the pedal is disengaged.
Power: Operates with a 9-18v DC power supply.
Controls:
- Volume: Adjusts the output level. Designed for higher output and more headroom. Interacts with Gain and Tone controls, requiring potential re-adjustment after dialing in other settings.
- Gain: Controls the total amount of gain applied to the signal path. Clockwise rotation increases gain, providing options from smooth breakup to thick, vintage-style overdriven tones without fizzing out.
- Smooth/Lift Switch: A small toggle switch offering two distinct settings:
  - Smooth: Allows the player to sit in the mix.
  - Lift: Helps leads stand out.
- Bass: Adjusts the amount of bass in the effected signal. Fully counterclockwise provides a thinner, brighter tone, while fully clockwise offers a fuller, darker, and heavier low end, useful for "fattening" up tones, especially with single-coil guitars.
- Mids: Adjusts the amount of midrange. Unlike traditional 'screamer circuits with a fixed midrange bump, this control allows users to dial in less or more midrange as desired.
- Treble: Functions similarly to the Bass knob, controlling the amount of treble. Fully counterclockwise reduces treble considerably, while clockwise brings it forward. Requires potential simultaneous adjustment with the Bass control to find the "sweet spot."

Usage Features

Transparent Drive: Offers a more transparent drive when turned down, providing a natural sound.
Usable Gain: Delivers more usable gain that does not "fizz out" when cranked up, allowing for versatile overdriven tones.
Efficient Tone Dialing: Designed to allow users to dial in their desired tone faster and more efficiently for any gig.
Versatile Tonal Options: The improved TS circuit provides a wider range of tonal options to satisfy diverse preferences.
Midrange Control: Unique control over midrange allows users to sculpt their tone precisely, unlike traditional 'screamer pedals with a fixed midrange bump.
Headroom: Designed with higher output to provide more headroom when needed.
Quiet Switching: The true-bypass relay switch ensures quiet and smooth operation when engaging or disengaging the effect.

Maintenance Features

Warranty: WAMPLER offers a five (5) year warranty to the original purchaser, covering defects in material and workmanship. A dated sales receipt is required for coverage. The warranty does not cover damage from accidents, neglect, normal cosmetic wear, disaster, misuse, abuse, negligence, inadequate packing/shipping, or unauthorized service/modifications.
Return Procedures: In case of a defect, products must be shipped freight pre-paid and insured to WAMPLER SERVICE DEPT - 3383 Gage Ave., Huntington Park, CA 90255, USA. A Return Authorization Number (RAN) must be obtained from Customer Service prior to shipping. Products should be in original packaging or equivalent, with the RAN clearly visible on the shipping address. A brief defect description, return address, and telephone number must be included.
Repair/Replacement: If determined defective under warranty, WAMPLER will repair or replace the product at no additional charge. Replaced parts become WAMPLER property. Repaired/replaced products are returned via ground shipping within the US, freight prepaid. WAMPLER is not responsible for expedited shipping costs.
Incidental/Consequential Damage: WAMPLER is not liable for incidental or consequential damages arising from the use or inability to use the product. Some states may not allow this limitation.
FCC Compliance: The device complies with part 15 of FCC Rules for Class B digital devices, designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in residential installations. If interference occurs, measures include reorienting/relocating the antenna, increasing separation between equipment and receiver, connecting to a different circuit outlet, or consulting a dealer/technician.
Online Warranty Registration: Users are encouraged to complete online warranty registration within 10 days of purchase at www.RegisterYourWampler.com for safety notifications and quicker service.
Customer Support: Dedicated staff is available for warranty or product questions via email at help@wamplerpedals.com or by phone at (765) 352-8626.