Marshall VT1

Marshall VT1 Introduction

Of all the retro effects to hit the shops in recent years, perhaps the most authentic and coolest is tremolo.

Instantly calling up the spirit of the 60s, Tremolo was the first effect to appear on a Marshall amp in the early 1960s.

The late 90s sees Marshall updating the tremolo effect in the form of the Vibratrem. By using split phase modulation a truely awesome stereo sound field can be created by connecting the VT-1 up to two amplifiers.

The Vibratrem features a passive bypass for the main signal path to ensure complete tonal integrity and has a quality of tone matched only by its versatility.

Here follows a complete run down of the Vibratrem's features for your information. We have also enclosed a number of suggested settings to help guide you.

It should be remembered though that these are only suggested settings and you should really take the time to experiment.

If you take the time to explore the different effects within the Vibratrem, you won't be disappointed.

Marshall VT1 Features:

'Out 2' Jack Socket

• The Vibratrem is a stereo footpedal. If you are using the Vibratrem in a stereo configuration this Jack socket is for your second output.

'Out 1 - Mono' Jack Socket

• This is the main output of the Vibratrem and is for connection to the amplifier or to another effects pedal.

Mode

• This allows you to switch between the Vibratrem's two modes, Vibrato and Tremolo.
• Tremolo - refers to change in signal volume. In Tremolo mode the signal increases and decreases at a role governed by the speed control.
• The tremolo on the VT-1 is specially designed to recreate the natural swell and decay of a valve-based tremolo as found on many vintage valve amplifiers.
• Vibrato - By phase shifting the effected signal with respect to direct, uneffected signal, a subtle pitch shifting vibrato is created.
• The vibrato on the VT-1 has been developed to closely mimic the vibrato settings on certain vintage valve amplifiers.
• Note: the stereo output remains unchanged (i.e. tremolo) in vibrato mode.

Setting Up:

• Always use good quality shielded leads.
• Always use 9V regulated DC supply with centre negative.
• Although it may seem obvious the first action in achieving a good effected sound (be it duration / compression etc.) is to find the perfect bypassed sound.
• This will then allow the correct level to be set with the effect unit to allow a cut or boost in volume and a realistic tone.
• On clean channels it is advisable to set the gain (or volume) to a setting of no less than one quarter maximum so as not to get unrealistic results due to any volume dependent tonal shaping on the amplifier preamp.

Speed

• Alters the speed of the modulation of the effect. Turn the control anti-clockwise and the effect will slow down. Conversely, turn the control clockwise and the modulation of the effect will increase in speed.

DC Input

• For input of a 9 V DC adaptor should you not wish to use batteries.

LED

• Indicates when the Vibratrem is in operation.

Depth

• Controls the depth of the effect. Turn the control anti-clockwise and the effect will be more subtle, turn the control clockwise and the modulation of the effect will be increased.

Shape

• The Shape control affects the modulation waveform of the VT-1. In short, the shape of the modulation waveform determines the manner in which the VT-1 circuitry turns the signal level up and down in creating the tremolo and shifts phase in the case of vibrato.
• The triangle wave ( ) creates a gradual swelling tremolo and subtly phasing vibrato.
• The square wave ( ) produces a more abrupt change in volume when Tremolo mode is engaged and a 'de-tuned' pitch shifting vibrato in Vibrato mode.

In Jack

• This is the input jack, for connection to your guitar or to another effects pedal.

Foot Switch

• For switching the Vibratrem on and off.

Battery Replacement

• To replace the battery, open the easily accessed coin screw battery cover plate by loosening screw as shown, then disconnect the battery connector lead.
• Use PP3 or equivalent battery (for improved battery life use alkaline type)
• Always ensure that the battery is removed when the pedal is not in use for long periods.
• Dispose of old battery in a safe place.

Marshall VT1 Specifications:

• Power: 9V DC Centre Negative Regulated
• Current Draw: 16mA
• Controls: Vibrato and Tremolo Mode, Speed, Depth and Shape
• Switches: On/Off Switch
• Indicators: On/Off LED
• Jacks: 1 Input, 2 Output 'Jacksockets'
• Input Impedance: 1M 1/2
• Output Load Impedance: 1k 1/2
• Dimensions: 120mm x 65mm x 55mm
• Weight: 510 grammes

Get your Marshall VT1 today!

"Old School Vibrato/Tremolo"

john dillon from san bruno, ca USA

Overall:

Customer Rating:
This pedal has a classic 60's vibe to it. Good quality sounds, well built (if heavy),and is priced right. I hear some of the other pedals in the Marshall line, such as the compressor, are considered best 'bang for the buck' devices in their price range. I'd include the Vibratrem on that list.

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