Electronics / Audio
Darkglass Microtubes B1K Distortion Pedal Owner's Manual
Quick guide for the Darkglass Microtubes B1K distortion pedal. Learn about control settings, DIP switch functions, power requirements, and technical specifications.
Table of contents
Quick guide from the manual
The Darkglass Microtubes B1K is a CMOS bass overdrive pedal. This guide provides essential information on configuring your pedal, including front and back controls, internal DIP switches, and power requirements to ensure optimal performance.
Controls / Front
- Level: Adjusts the volume of the overdriven signal.
- Drive: Controls the amount of saturation in the overdriven signal.
Controls / Back
Access the internal controls by opening the magnetic bottom lid.
- Blend: Mixes the clean input signal with the overdriven signal. The clean signal is fixed at unity gain. Turn clockwise to increase the clean signal blend.
- Tone: A variable low-pass filter (3 kHz to 8 kHz). Turn counter-clockwise for a brighter sound.
DIP switches
- Grunt: Provides a low-end boost to thicken the sound.
- MBoost: Provides a subtle 6 dB boost from 300 Hz to 1 kHz to help the bass cut through the mix.
Technical Specifications
- Input Impedance: 1MΩ
- Output Impedance: 1kΩ
- Current Consumption: ~17mA
- Voltage: 9V DC (Center Negative)
Safety and Power
The pedal requires a regulated 9V DC adapter with a center-negative plug. The unit has a current draw of 30mA. Using unregulated power supplies or higher voltages may result in noise or damage to the unit, which voids the warranty.
Support
For product registration, visit http://mypedal.darkglass.com. For technical support, contact [email protected].
Official resources from the manual
Practical help
Common problems
Suboptimal noise performance or unit damage
Ensure you are using a regulated 9V DC power supply with a center-negative plug. Do not use unregulated supplies or higher voltages.
Sound is too thin
Engage the 'Grunt' DIP switch to provide a low-end boost.
Bass is not cutting through the mix
Engage the 'MBoost' DIP switch for a 6 dB boost between 300 Hz and 1 kHz.
Before use
- Verify the power supply is 9V DC, regulated, and center-negative.
- Ensure the power supply provides at least 30mA of current.
- Register your product at http://mypedal.darkglass.com using the serial number on the back of the pedal.
- Open the magnetic bottom lid to access the internal Blend, Tone, and DIP switch controls.
Specs in practice
- Input Impedance (1MΩ)
- Standard high impedance for instrument inputs to maintain signal clarity.
- Current Consumption (~17mA)
- The actual power draw of the pedal during operation.
- Tone Filter (3 kHz to 8 kHz)
- A variable low-pass filter; turning it counter-clockwise removes more high frequencies, making the sound darker.
Model compatibility
- Designed for bass guitar signals.
- Complies with FCC Part 15 Class B limits for residential use.
Manual page author
Michael Turner
Technical manual editor
Reviews PDF manuals for structure, safety notes, and practical product details so readers can find the right information quickly.