Expression
What is the difference between an expression pedal and a volume pedal?
A volume pedal is part of the signal chain and the audio signal from your instrument passes through the pedal. A volume pedal has at least one input and one output and can be used with most systems. An expression pedal does not carry the audio signal, and there is no input. An expression pedal can only be used with devices that have a dedicated expression input specifically designed to connect an external expression pedal. An expression pedal can sometimes be used to control volume, if the connected device is a digital amplifier, multi-effects unit or similar, that supports expression controlled volume.
What is the difference between an EP-1 and an SP-1?
The EP-1 pedal is an expression pedal with a single output. The SP-1 includes a toe switch connected to a second output. The switch on the SP-1 can be used with compatible devices such as some MIDI controllers, modelers, and multi effects units that support an external switch. The switch is commonly used to turn an effect on and off, similar to a traditional analog wah pedal.
What is the difference between an EP-1 and an EP1-KP?
The EP-1 pedal is an expression pedal with a single output. The EP1-KP includes a toe switch connected to a second output, designed for use with the Kemper Profiler and Remote. The switch is commonly used to turn an effect on and off, similar to a traditional analog wah pedal. The switch on the EP1-KP is momentary TS which is required to work correctly with the Kemper Profiler. The standard EP-1 can be used as a plain expression pedal with the Kemper Profiler if the switching capability is not required.
Which pedals work with Line 6 products?
Most Line 6 products require a specific expression pedal design and usually will not work with TRS expression pedals. Mission worked with Line 6 to create the Mission EP1-L6 and SP1-L6H for best performance with Line 6 devices. The EP1-L6 is compatible with any Line 6 device with support for an external expression pedal. The SP1-L6H adds a switch for use with the toe switch input on the Helix Rack. Currently the Helix Rack is the only Line 6 device with support for this switch.
The expression pedal doesn’t work.
Not all expression pedals work with all devices, so make sure you have the correct model expression pedal. The model # is on the logo plate on the front of the pedal. A common cause of problems is a bad or incorrect cable, or the cable is not connected correctly. If the pedal requires a TRS cable, a regular TS instrument cable won’t work. Make sure you have the right cable, it is not damaged, and is correctly inserted. Some devices need to be programmed first before an expression pedal will work. Make sure to read the manual.
What cables should I use?
Most Mission expression pedals require the use of 1/4″ TRS (stereo) cables. If the pedal requires a TRS cable, a regular TS instrument cable won’t work. For switching expression pedals, the switch output may require a TS or TRS cable. This will be documented in the User Guide. Line 6 expression pedals do not require TRS cables, and standard TS instrument cables should be used.
The input jack is missing.
Expression pedals are controls for remote devices. Depending on the model they may have one or more outputs to connect to the device(s) they are controlling. The instrument signal does not pass through an expression pedal, and it does not have input jacks. Some Mission expression pedals may have a blank plug in place of an unused jack.
The power jack is missing.
Most Mission expression pedals are passive devices and do not require their own power. A control voltage is sent over the TRS, or TS cable from the device the pedal is connected to, and that is all that is required. The pedals do not require a battery or external power supply. Some Mission expression pedals may have a blank plug in place of an unused power jack. Some expression pedal models with additional features such as LED’s, may require a battery or power supply to light the LED’s. This will be documented in the User Guide for the device. In most cases the expression pedal will still function without power, and the power is only required for the LED’s.
How does an expression pedal work without power?
Mission expression pedals are passive devices and do not require their own power. A control voltage is sent over the TRS, or TS cable from the device the pedal is connected to, and that is all that is required. The pedals do not require a battery or external power supply. Some Mission expression pedals may have a blank plug in place of an unused power jack. Some expression pedal models with additional features such as LED’s, may require a battery or power supply to light the LED’s. This will be documented in the User Guide for the device. In most cases the expression pedal will still function without power, and the power is only required for the LED’s.
The pedal doesn’t calibrate correctly.
Check the pedal is connected correctly. Follow the calibration instructions in the user manual for the device you are connecting. Different devices have different ranges for calibration. Most expression enabled devices convert analog expression voltage to digital values, and these may be different between pedals, or even at different times with the same pedal. For example, If the range is 0-100 and the system calibrates with a pedal from 1-99, this would be normal and have no impact on the audio.
What is the spring load for?
The spring load is a factory fit option that always returns the pedal to heel down. It’s intended for use with digital processors that can turn effects on and off automatically when an expression pedal is moved. Spring loaded pedals are not generally suitable for volume or controls where you need to leave the pedal in a set position. Once fitted, the spring load function cannot be removed or disabled.
Can I buy the spring and install it myself?
The spring load is a factory fit option only. It should be fitted when the pedal is first assembled. The spring cannot be installed on existing pedals.
Will the pedal work if I remove the spring?
The spring load is factory fitted in place of the standard torsion block mechanism. The spring load is not intended to be removed. Removing the spring will disable the proper functioning of the pedal.
I’ve replaced my gear. Can I rewire my pedal into something else?
Some expression pedals such as the EP-1 and EP25 pedals are compatible with many different devices, so you should try your pedal first and see if it works with your intended device. Making modifications, alterations or component changes to Mission products is not supported. Making unsupported changes may invalidate the warranty. If you wish to make your own modifications entirely at your own risk, we recommend checking out effectsblog for additional information on how expression pedals work.
What are the internal switches on the Pro Aero pedals?
Most devices that require TRS expression pedals require the pedals to be wired with the output on the tip. Some devices, however, have the output on the ring. This is often referred to as the polarity. The Pro Aero pedals have two internal polarity switches that allow the two outputs to be converted between the two different types, so that the pedal is compatible with many different devices.
I took the feet off the pedal and now the screws are too long.
We provide a purpose designed PR-1 Pedal Riser Kit for mounting Mission pedals to a pedal board. The screws will be too long to use without the feet installed. Do not attempt to over tighten the screws without the feet. This risks shearing of the screw in the chassis, which may require the pedal to be replaced. Causing damage to the pedal in this way is not covered under the standard warranty.
Can I adjust the pedal tension?
The rocker action on standard pedals can be adjusted using the hex bolt at the rear of the pedal. A hex key is provided in the tool kit with new pedals. Instructions are included in the User Manual. Aero pedals cannot be adjusted.
Can I make the toe switch easier/harder to press?
The height of the toe switch can be adjusted in the chassis. Raising the switch will make it easier to press, lowering the switch will make it harder. Spacers and additional pads are included in the tool kit that is supplied with new pedals.
The switch doesn’t click. Is it broken?
Depending on the model, your pedal may have a latching or momentary switch. Latching switches make a mechanical click when you actuate them, momentary switches usually do not. Check to make sure that you have the correct pedal for your device, it is connected in accordance with the instructions, and that the device is programmed for remote switch function. Test that the device responds as expected when pressing the switch. It may not click, but the function will still work.
What are the differences between standard and Aero pedals?
Aero pedals have a rear cutaway and extended length curved surface designed for comfortable use in standing and sitting positions. The pedal travel is longer than a standard pedal which is sometimes preferred for volume control. Aero pedals have dual polarity selection switches for compatibility with reverse polarity devices.
Should I lubricate the pedal?
The meeting point between the rack and toothed wheel on the potentiometer may be occasionally lubricated with a small amount of lithium grease. If the mechanical motion of the pedal causes any noises or squeaks, a small amount of general-purpose lubricant such as WD-40 may be used on the pin between the top and bottom casting.
What are the power specifications for the VM-PRO?
The VM-PRO requires an internal 9V battery, or an external power supply. The external supply should be between 9V and 18V DC with a 2.1mm center pin negative connector. Current and power consumption are nominal 3mA (27mW) at 9VDC, and 4mA (72mW) at 18VDC
Is there an advantage to using the VM-PRO with 18V?
Increasing the power supply voltage will increase the headroom of the internal amplifier. In most cases this makes little or no difference. If you are using a very hot signal into the VM-PRO input such as high output active pickups, or putting the VM-PRO after another amplifier, boost, or distortion pedal, then the higher supply voltage can avoid over driving the VM-PRO input.
Does the VM-PRO boost the signal level?
With the active/passive switch in PASSIVE mode, which is the factory default, the VM-PRO will add approximately 3dB gain at max volume. This is to compensate for any signal loss in the signal chain. Changing the switch to ACTIVE will remove this and set unity gain. You can still use both active and passive pickups in this mode.
What is the difference between a VM-PRO and a PZ?
The default input impedance of the standard VM-PRO is 1M Ohm, whereas the VM-PRO-PZ is 10M Ohm. The high impedance of the PZ model provides better matching for passive Piezo electric pickups which are used on some acoustic instruments. If you are using Piezo active pickups (the instrument requires a battery or external power supply), or are using the VM-PRO pedal AFTER a pre-amplifier, then it is recommended to use the standard VM-PRO. If you are using passive (un-powered) Piezo pickups and connecting the input of the VM-PRO directly to the instrument output, then the VM-PRO-PZ is recommended. A standard VM-PRO will still work in this case, but the PZ version will provide better impedance matching.
Is the VM-PRO True Bypass?
The VM-PRO is an always on buffered pedal. There is no bypass or off switch.
I already have a buffer. Can I still use the VM-PRO?
Many guitar effects pedals are buffered. Using multiple buffered pedals is perfectly acceptable in most cases.
What pedal order should I use?
The VM-1 volume pedal is designed to go first in the signal chain connected directly to passive guitar pickups only. The VM-PRO can go anywhere in the signal chain and be used with many different types of instrument.
Can I adjust the start/stop position?
Remove the base plate and loosen the screw holding the white tension adjuster. Pull the rack back and rotate the potentiometer forwards or backwards one notch in the rack. Rotating backwards will set the heel down closer to zero, rotating forwards will allow some volume at heel down. Do not adjust more than one or two notches as this will restrict the movement of the pedal and may damage the potentiometer. On the VM-PRO, you may need to adjust the trim pot following adjustment of the potentiometer.
Store
I’m not in the US, can I still place an order?
Yes, we ship worldwide from our factories in California and Missouri. You can order on the web store at missionengineering.com. We also have Mission Authorized Dealers servicing most areas around the world. There are a very small number of countries we may not ship to due to US and international regulations. The Mission web store will let you know the available options when you enter your shipping address. More details are available in the Terms.
How much is shipping?
Shipping cost depends on the number of items, size, and weight of your order, and the shipping address. To see the shipping cost, enter your order on the web store. The system will provide an estimate based on your calculated location. You will need to enter your full shipping address to see all the options and exact cost. Creating an account with your shipping details will allow you to receive faster and easier shipping quotes. Shipping cost on the Mission store is calculated by our service providers, Fedex and UPS. Mission charges only what the shipping company bills us for shipping your order. For most US customers, a free shipping option is available for orders over $200
Can I have my order shipped to someone else?
You can enter an alternative contact and shipping address on the web store to have your order shipped to a different address. Note that there may sometimes be an additional wait time if we need to verify the shipping address for security purposes.
There are two different sets of dimensions, which is correct?
The information in the product Description tab is for the product itself. The Shipping Information tab contains the shipping dimensions including all packaging materials.
Can I pick up my order?
The web store will provide a local pickup option for customers with a local address only. We will contact you when your order is ready, and you can collect by appointment from the Mission facility.
How long will my order take?
Most Mission products are built to order and ship within 7-10 days. In most cases orders will ship within 3-5 days, but sometimes longer is required. Shipping time is in addition to build time. See the Terms for more information. If you require an item urgently, Mission Authorized Dealers keep products in stock, and can often offer expedited services.
My order status is ‘Processing’. What does this mean?
Most Mission products are built to order and ship within 7-10 days. An order status of Processing indicates that we have received your order and it has been submitted for manufacture. You will receive an email with the tracking # to the email on the order as soon as it ships.
Amps and Speakers
Can I play bass through a Gemini speaker?
It’s possible to use the Gemini for bass with some caveats. Speaker drivers specifically built for bass have a wider excursion that allows for the greater movement of the cone required for the low frequencies. Guitar and monitor speakers have a shorter excursion. At low volumes such as practice and home studio it’s usually OK to use these speakers, but if you use bass consistently at high volumes such as live use with a band, there’s the possibility the drivers could be damaged. If you plan to use the Gemini live with bass, it’s best to include a limiter in the signal chain to reduce the likelihood of damage.