Step On It, HOW to USE Your VC-4 Foot Controller, Bank

Step On It!

HOW TO USE YOUR VC-4 FOOT CONTROLLER.

s already stated, thanks to it three distinct Aoperational modes (PROGRAM SELECT MODE, INDIVIDUAL MODE and TUNER

MODE), your new

VC-4 allows you to do a bunch of neat things when it is hooked up to your Valvetronix amp. These include changing programs, turning individual FX on and off, controlling various effects, controlling the amp’s volume, changing delay times and tuning your axe. We’re gonna learn how it does all this stuff by looking at the VC-4’s three modes…..

1.PROGRAM SELECT MODE

As already mentioned, when your VC-4 is in PROGRAM SELECT MODE its BANK DISPLAY will show a Bank number. And as you’d expect, this number will match the one in the BANK DIS- PLAY of the amp…duh! So, take a look at the BANK DISPLAY and see what’s up. If it shows a Bank number and it isn’t ﬂashing, your VC-4 is already in PROGRAM SELECT MODE. Let’s assume it isn’t and suss out how to get there…

GETTING TO PROGRAM SELECT MODE

So, your BANK Display is displaying “ ”, “ ”,

“ ”, “ ” or is ﬂashing, and you wanna be in PRO- GRAM SELECT MODE, huh? Well, to get there is a piece of cake – all you do is one or two of the fol- lowing:

1.If the BANK DISPLAY is showing “ ” it means that the amp is in MANUAL MODE (see “The Guitarist’s Guide” that came with your combo). As already stated, the only way to get out of MANUAL MODE is via the amp. To do so, simply press either the ▲ (UP) or ▼ (DOWN) button on the amp’s Top Panel and both the amp and the VC-4 will revert to PROGRAM SELECT MODE.

2.If the BANK DISPLAY is showing either “ ” or “ ” it means it is in TUNER MODE. To get out of it, simply step on the TAP TEMPO switch. This will return the VC-4 to either PROGRAM SELECT MODE or INDIVIDUAL MODE. If it goes to PROGRAM SELECT MODE (i.e. the BANK DISPLAY shows a Bank number) you’re ready to roll, if it doesn’t then read on…

3.If the BANK DISPLAY is showing “ ” it means the VC-4 is in INDIVIDUAL MODE. So, all you

6have to do is hit the FX ON & OFF/CHANNEL

switch and it’ll revert to PROGRAM SELECT MODE.

4.If the BANK DISPLAY is ﬂashing, it means you’re halfway through changing banks. To get out of this and get back to PROGRAM SELECT MODE, all you have to do is press the FX ON & OFF/CHANNEL switch.

Right, now we’ve got our VC-4 Foot Controller in PROGRAM SELECT MODE, let’s get into how we can change programs by merely stamping our feet….

IMPORTANT NOTE: When your VC-4 is in PROGRAM SELECT MODE you can use both the TAP TEMPO SWITCH and the BUILT-IN PEDAL as already described.

i)CHANGING CHANNELS WITHIN THE SAME

BANK...

This is stupidly easy! As you know, the 32 pro- grams your Valvetronix can remember are stored in 8 Banks and each Bank consists of 4 Chan- nels. Let’s assume for a second that the program currently being used is 3-1. To switch to program 3-2, 3-3 or 3-4 from 3-1 using the VC-4 is incred- ibly simple – all you do is step on the appropriate

CHANNEL BUTTON!!

For example, say you’re currently on program 2- 4 and you want to switch to program 2-2. All you do is step on the CHANNEL 2 button on your VC-4 and you’re there! Geddit!? Told you it was “stupidly simple!”

ii)CHANGING BANKS...

This is not quite as simple as changing channels but is still a breeze. Before we get into “how” though, an important announcement…

IMPORTANT PROGRAM CHANGING

NOTE: When using the VC-4 Foot Controller you can only change between the 16 pro- grams stored in Banks 1 – 4 or the 16 stored in Banks 1. – 4.. This means you can’t use the Foot Controller to change from program 2-1 to program 3.-4, or from 1.-3 to 4-1 for instance. The only way you can get your VC-4 from Banks 1 – 4 to Banks 1. – 4. , or vice versa, is via the Top Panel of the amp.

This said, let’s learn how to CHANGE BANKS using our VC-4. We’re going to do this by follow- ing an example. So, let’s say we want to go from program 1-1 to 4-3 using our VC-4. Here’s the simple three-step process…

NOTE: Program 4-3 is stored in Bank 4, Channel 3…remember?!

VC-4 specifications

The Vox VC-4 is a state-of-the-art musical instrument amplifier that has gained significant popularity among musicians and audio enthusiasts. Renowned for its innovative features and cutting-edge technology, the VC-4 delivers exceptional sound quality and versatility.

One of the standout characteristics of the Vox VC-4 is its advanced digital modeling technology. This amplifier utilizes sophisticated algorithms to replicate the sound of traditional tube amplifiers, producing rich harmonics and dynamic response. Musicians can achieve a wide range of tones, from clean, crisp sounds to warm, distorted textures. This flexibility makes the VC-4 a perfect choice for guitarists, bassists, and even keyboard players.

The VC-4 is equipped with multiple onboard effects that further enhance its capabilities. These effects include delay, reverb, chorus, and more, allowing users to shape their sound without the need for additional pedals or external processing. The intuitive user interface makes it easy to access and tweak these effects in real time, enabling performers to adapt their sound on the fly.

In terms of connectivity, the Vox VC-4 boasts a wealth of options. It features line output for direct connection to mixers or recording equipment, as well as an auxiliary input for jamming along with external devices. Furthermore, the built-in Bluetooth capability allows for wireless streaming of music, making it an excellent tool for practice and performance alike.

Another notable feature of the VC-4 is its compact and lightweight design, which makes it highly portable. Musicians can easily transport this amplifier to gigs, rehearsals, or studio sessions without the burden of heavy equipment. Despite its small size, the VC-4 does not compromise on sound quality, delivering impressive volume and clarity.

The Vox VC-4 is also designed with durability in mind, featuring robust construction that can withstand the rigors of regular use. Its user-friendly controls and layout ensure that musicians of all levels can quickly acclimate to the amplifier and make the most of its features.

In conclusion, the Vox VC-4 stands out as an exceptional amplifier, offering a blend of classic tone, modern technology, and user-centric design. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a budding musician, the VC-4 provides the tools needed to take your sound to the next level, making it a worthy addition to any musician's gear collection.