Tips on getting Optimum performance from the Electro-Harmonix MEL9
The information below and much more was found on the Electro-Harmonix web page for the MEL9. Click here to check it out.
1. The MEL9 is generally best used as the first pedal in an effects chain. Place modulation, delay, and reverb effects after the MEL9. The unit will not perform well if placed in the effects loop of a guitar amp.
2. If a guitar’s pickup has a weak output, performance can be improved by putting a clean boost or a compressor in front of the MEL9. Avoid placing a distortion or overdrive in front of the MEL9. Placing distortion or overdrive in front of the MEL9 will muddy up the input signal and cause the tracking to be unstable. If you want to add overdrive or distortion, place it after the MEL9.
3. The MEL9 tracking response is limited depending on the preset chosen, and the type of electronic instrument you use to trigger the effect. On guitar, the usable range for these sounds goes up to about the 23rd fret on the high-E for some presets, and to only the 16th fret for others. On bass guitar, the MEL9 tracks only about as low as the open A-string.
4. The MEL9 imitates Mellotron® sounds, so the MEL9 will only sound as real for any of the nine instruments as the Mellotron® does. For example, the FLUTE preset is the same as the Mellotron’s flute which is a recording of a real flute.
5. Pay attention to performance gestures (vibrato, trills, slides, and so on) and the settings for ATTACK and SUSTAIN. If you want to mimic a Mellotron®, play pianistically with as little guitar inflection as possible. If you want to simulate an actual sound such as a cello, adapt your performance gestures to help mimic the actual sound. Otherwise, let your creativity guide your approach to playing the MEL9. And that means you should feel free to go wild by combining atypical performance techniques with traditional sounds. So what if an actual clarinet does not let you bend a note up a whole tone or more? Now you can go for it!
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