Just scored a Q-tron!! I have a question..

[gustobassman]

I have gone back into the effects world with a used Q-tron i bought yesterday. I think i like it. So far i haven't really found a whole lot of useable sounds for bass but the ones i have come up with are pretty cool.

Since it did not come with a manual, my main question is regarding the Overload indicator and what is acceptable or not regarding pushing the effect into overload. I haven't used filter-based effects much and being that i would really only use it for a few passages during our set, the last thing i want to do is blow speakers because i didn't understand "overload" hahaha...

Any tips out there for first time Q-tron users?

 

[bongomania]

Overload just means the effect itself will start to distort, which is harmless. You're more likely to blow speakers from the volume spike just from normal filter operation than from lighting up the Overload light.

 

[gustobassman]

Overload just means the effect itself will start to distort, which is harmless. You're more likely to blow speakers from the volume spike just from normal filter operation than from lighting up the Overload light.

OK, now we are getting somewhere. I thought i heard the effect distort somewhat as the light came on on. And, the pedal does seem awfully loud compared to my regular bass signal. This, i'm assuming, can be fixed using the GAIN knob? Does this pedal have limitations as far as bass goes?

Thanks for any assistance!

 

[cheapbasslovin]

Most settings that sound good on the qtron are in the LP mode. You might find something in BP or BPMix. Also, the 'more is clockwise' thing doesn't really work on the gain knob (at least if you're not in boost mode). There is a sweet spot where the filter has a strong effect on the frequencies you are working with and you have to find it. If you can't find it because your bass is too hot you may have to run the volume back on your bass a little.

IME overload on the up sweep means too much gain (and not enough funk) and overload on the down sweep can sound pretty good if it JUST gets into the overload.

 

[pscurnick]

I've had a qtron+ for a long while and had to wrestle with the volume issue, try putting the pedal in boost mode and setting it to the volume you'd like using the gain knob(my preference for the other controls are range lo, low pass, sweep up and peak maxed). Then take the back off of the pedal and have a play around with the trim pot inside to set the sensitivity and get the preferred amount of quack.
Doing this solved the issue for me, though I'm sorry I cant remember which way I turned the trimpot it may be an idea to note its position. As you turn it just play your bass with your usual dynamics till it suits your taste using the overload light is a good indicator for finding the sweet spot.
Hope this helps