digi-tech RP255 User manual

Modeling
Guitar Processor
Owner’s
Manual

DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
Manufacturer’s Name: DigiTech
Manufacturer’s Address: 8760 S. Sandy Parkway
Sandy, Utah 84070, USA
declares that the product:
Product name: RP255
Product option: all (requires Class II power
adapter that conforms to the
requirements of EN60065,
EN60742, or equivalent.)
conforms to the following Product Specifications:
Safety: IEC 60065 (7th ed. 2001)
EMC: EN 55013 (2001 + A1)
EN 55020 (1998)
Supplementary Information:
The product herewith complies with the requirements of the Low
Voltage Directive 2006/95/EC and the EMC Directive 2004/108/EC.
Vice-President of Engineering
8760 S. Sandy Parkway
Sandy, Utah 84070, USA
Date: January 02, 2009
European Contact: Your local DigiTech Sales and
Service Office or
Harman Music Group
8760 South Sandy Parkway
Sandy, Utah 84070 USA
Ph: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
If you want to dispose this product, do not mix it with general household waste. There is a
separate collection system for used electronic products in accordance with legislation that
requires proper treatment, recovery and recycling.
Private household in the 25 member states of the EU, in Switzerland and Norway may return their used
electronic products free of charge to designated collection facilities or to a retailer (if you purchase a similar
new one).
For Countries not mentioned above, please contact your local authorities for a correct method of disposal.
By doing so you will ensure that your disposed product undergoes the necessary treatment, recovery and
recycling and thus prevent potential negative effects on the environment and human health.

Table of Contents
Section One - Introduction
Getting Acquainted.......................................................... 1
Included Items .................................................................. 1
About the RP255 ............................................................. 2
Performance Mode ....................................................... 2
Bypass Mode .................................................................. 2
Tuner Mode..................................................................... 2
Tone Library Knob ........................................................ 4
Effects Library Knob..................................................... 4
Master Level Knob........................................................ 4
X-EditTM Editor/Librarian............................................. 4
Presets ............................................................................. 5
A Guided Tour of the RP255 ........................................ 6
Front Panel ..................................................................... 6
Rear Panel.....................................................................10
Getting Started...............................................................12
Making Connections......................................................12
Mono Operation - Amplifier ....................................12
Stereo Operation........................................................13
Applying Power ..............................................................15
Section Two - Editing Functions
Editing/Creating Presets ...............................................16
Storing/Copying/Naming a Preset..............................17
Section Three - Models and Parameters
About the Models..........................................................19
Model Definitions ..........................................................20
Pickup ...............................................................................20
Wah...................................................................................20
Compressor ....................................................................21
Distortion ........................................................................21
Amplifier...........................................................................23
Cabinet.............................................................................25
EQ......................................................................................26
Noise Gate......................................................................26
Chorus/FX.......................................................................27
Chorus...........................................................................27
Flanger ...........................................................................28
Phaser ............................................................................28
Vibrato............................................................................29
Rotary Speaker ............................................................29
VibroPan.........................................................................30
Tremolo..........................................................................30
Panner............................................................................30
Envelope Filter .............................................................31
AutoYaTM ........................................................................31
YaYa™.............................................................................31
Step Filter......................................................................32
DigiTech Whammy™..................................................32
Pitch Shift ......................................................................33
Detune...........................................................................33
Harmony Pitch Shifting ..............................................34
Delay .................................................................................35
Reverb ..............................................................................36

Section Four - Other Functions
Phrase Looper ................................................................38
Drum Machine................................................................39
Aux Input.........................................................................40
Expression Pedal ............................................................40
Factory Reset..................................................................41
Expression Pedal Calibration ......................................42
Section Five - Appendix
Specifications...................................................................43
Expression Pedal - Assignable Parameters...............45
Tone LIbrary....................................................................47
Effects Library.................................................................48

Warranty
We at DigiTech®are very proud of our products and back up each one we sell with the following warranty:
1. The warranty registration card must be mailed within ten days after purchase date to validate this
warranty.
2. DigiTech warrants this product, when used solely within the U.S., to be free from defects in materials and
workmanship under normal use and service.
3. DigiTech liability under this warranty is limited to repairing or replacing defective materials that show
evidence of defect, provided the product is returned to DigiTech WITH RETURN AUTHORIZATION,
where all parts and labor will be covered up to a period of one year.A Return Authorization number may
be obtained from DigiTech by telephone.The company shall not be liable for any consequential damage as a
result of the product’s use in any circuit or assembly.
4. Proof-of-purchase is considered to be the burden of the consumer.
5. DigiTech reserves the right to make changes in design, or make additions to, or improvements upon this
product without incurring any obligation to install the same on products previously manufactured.
6. The consumer forfeits the benefits of this warranty if the product’s main assembly is opened and tampered
with by anyone other than a certified DigiTech technician or, if the product is used with AC voltages outside
of the range suggested by the manufacturer.
7. The foregoing is in lieu of all other warranties, expressed or implied, and DigiTech neither assumes nor
authorizes any person to assume any obligation or liability in connection with the sale of this product. In no
event shall DigiTech or its dealers be liable for special or consequential damages or from any delay in the
performance of this warranty due to causes beyond their control.
NOTE:The information contained in this manual is subject to change at any time without notification. Some
information contained in this manual may also be inaccurate due to undocumented changes in the product or
operating system since this version of the manual was completed.The information contained in this version of
the owner’s manual supersedes all previous versions.

1
Section 1 - Introduction
Getting Acquainted
Congratulations on your purchase of the RP255. You now have an incredibly advanced modeling
guitar processor that can keep up with your creative impulses and even increase them. Armed
with DigiTech®’s patented AudioDNA2®custom audio DSP chip, the RP255 gives you a huge
selection of tones and effects, right at your fingertips.When you easily dial up a tone or effect
from the Tone Library or the Effects Library, you’ll appreciate the accuracy in each model, and the
dynamic interaction in each tone. Add USB support for computer recording with the included
Cubase LE®4 software and a built-in drum machine, and you have the RP255: the key to unlock
your creative potential.
Included Items
Before you get started, please make sure that the following items have been included:
 •RP255
 •Cubase®LE 4 Recording Software DVD
 •PS0913BPowerSupply
 •WarrantyCard
The utmost care was taken while your RP255 was being manufactured. Everything should be
included and in perfect working order. If anything is missing, contact the factory at once. Please
help us become acquainted with you and your needs by completing your warranty card or regis-
tering online at www.digitech.com. It is your safeguard should a problem arise with your RP255.
Disclaimer: DigiTech, Lexicon,Whammy,YaYa,AutoYa, and Johnson Amplification are trademarks of Harman
International Industries, Inc. Other product names modeled in this product are trademarks of their respec-
tive companies that do not endorse and are not associated or affiliated with DigiTech or Harman International
Industries, Inc.They are trademarks of other manufacturers and were used merely to identify products whose
sounds were reviewed in the creation of this product.

2
About the RP255
Performance Mode
When you first apply power to the RP255, it powers up in Performance mode. Performance mode
provides access to all of the presets within the RP255 via the Up and Down Footswitches.
Knob 1 selects a tone from the Tone Library, Knob2 selects an effect from the Effects Library,
Knob3 adjusts the Effects Level, and Knob 4 adjusts the Master Level (volume).
Bypass Mode
The RP255 presets can be bypassed via a true analog bypass circuit for a clean, unprocessed guitar
signal. To bypass the RP255, press both Footswitches simultaneously. The Display reads 
indicating the preset is bypassed. Press either Footswitch to exit Bypass and return the RP255
to the last preset used.
Tuner Mode
The Tuner in the RP255 allows you to quickly tune or check the tuning on your guitar. Enter
Tuner mode by pressing and holding both Footswitches simultaneously. The Display briefly
shows  indicating that you are in Tuner mode. To begin tuning, play a note on your guitar
(a harmonic at the 12th fret usually works best). The Display shows the note being played.The
Matrix LEDs indicate whether you are sharp or flat. The top 5 red LEDs indicate the note is sharp
and should be tuned down. The bottom 5 red LEDs indicate the note is flat and should be tuned
up. The center green LED indicates the note is in tune. The output is muted in Tuner mode. The
Expression Pedal controls the guitar volume while tuning. Exit tuner mode by pressing either
Footswitch.

3
Display shows
note played
Top LEDs indicate
note is sharp
Green LED indicates
note is in tune
Bottom LEDs indicate
note is flat
In Tuner mode, you can change your tuning reference. The default factory setting is A=440 Hz
(displayed as ). Rotating Knob 1 selects alternate dropped tunings. Alternate tunings are A
= Ab, A = G, and A = Gb. The display window briefly flashes the current tuning reference.

4
Tone Library (Knob 1)
In Performance mode, this knob selects a variety of genre-based amp tone defaults ranging from
Blues to Metal to Country. Behind the scenes, the Compressor, Distortion, Amp/Cabinet model,
and EQ are configured to create a specified tone with a single click of this knob. You can further
refine the sound by editing the preset (see Editing/Creating Presets on page 16). Changing between
different Tone Library defaults does not change the Chorus/FX, Delay or Reverb, letting you ex-
periment with different amp styles quickly in the context of the current effect chain.
Effects Library (Knob 2)
In Performance mode, this knob selects a variety of post-amplifier model effect chains (Chorus,
Chorus + Delay, Delay + Reverb, etc.).You can further refine the sound by editing the preset (see
Editing/Creating Presets on page 16). Changing between different Effects Library defaults does not
change the Compressor, Distortion, Amp/Cabinet model, and EQ settings, letting you experiment
with different effect chains quickly in the context of the current amp tone.
Effects Level (Knob 3)
In Performance mode, this knob changes the relative level of the post-amp effects (Chorus/FX,
Delay, and Reverb). This can be thought of as an effects mix control, where turning this knob
clockwise increases the level of these effects and turning it counter-clockwise decreases the level
of these effects.
Master Level (Knob 4)
This knob controls the overall output volume of all of the RP255 (Presets, Drum Machine, and
USB playback).
X-EditTM Editor/Librarian
You can edit your RP255 with your computer, using the X-EditTM Editor/Librarian. Download X-
EditTM, USB drivers, and documentation from www.digitech.com. Open the readme file for detailed
instructions about installing and using this software.

5
Presets
Presets are named and numbered locations of programmed sounds which reside in the RP255.
Presets are recalled with the Footswitches. The active effects in each preset are indicated by
lighted LEDs in the Effect Matrix. The RP255 comes with 60 User presets (1-60) and 60 Fac-
tory presets (61-120). The User presets are locations where your creations may be stored. The
Factory presets do not allow you to store any changes to them. From the factory, the 60 User
presets are exact duplicates of the 60 Factory presets. This allows you to create your own presets
without losing the sounds that came with the RP255.
The Tone Library knob, Effects Library knob, and Effects Level knob make it easy to
quickly load preset tones, effects, and effects chains.
1. Select a tone
with the
Tone Library knob
2. Select an effect
or effects chain with the
Effects Library knob
3. Adjust the
effects level with the
Effects Level knob
To learn about storing changes to presets, see page 17.

6
A Guided Tour of the RP255
Front Panel
1
2
3
4
56
7
8

7
1. Footswitches
These two Footswitches are used to select presets, access the Tuner, enable the Phrase Looper,
and Bypass the RP255.The Footswitch on the right will select the next preset up, and the
Footswitch on the left will select the next preset down. Pressing both Footswitches together
will bypass the currently selected preset. Pressing and holding the Left Footswitch will enable and
disable the Phrase Looper. Pressing and holding both Footswitches for 2 seconds will access the
Tuner. Press either Footswitch to exit Bypass or Tuner mode.
2. Knobs 1-4
These four knobs perform various functions, depending on which mode is currently active and
what (if anything) is being edited. The functions are listed below:
Tone Library (Knob 1)
1. In Performance mode, this knob selects from a library of preset amp tones.
(See page 47 for a list of preset amp tones.)
2. When editing a preset, this knob changes the Amp or Effect model for the selected row.
3. When editing an Effect row, press this knob to turn on or bypass the effect.
4. When the Drums row is selected, this knob selects the first pattern of each drum pattern
style (Rock, Blues, Jazz, etc.).
EffectsLibrary(Knob2)
1. In Performance mode, this knob selects from a library of preset effect configurations. (See
page 48 for a list of preset effect configurations.)
2. When editing a preset, this knob modifies the parameter listed in the column
directly above it for the selected Effect row.
3. When the Drums row is selected, this knob selects the different drum patterns available.
4. When the Expression row is selected, this knob selects which parameter is assigned to the
Expression Pedal.

8
EffectsLevel(Knob3)
1. In Performance mode, this knob adjusts the overall level of post amp model effects (Cho-
rus/Mod, Delay, and Reverb).
2. When editing a preset, this knob modifies the parameter listed in the column directly
above it for the selected Effect row.
3. When the Drums row is selected, this knob adjusts the playback Tempo of the drum
machine.
4. When the Expression row is selected, this knob selects the heel value for the Expression
Pedal
Master Level (Knob 4)
1. In Performance mode, this knob adjusts the output level of the RP255.
2. When editing a preset, this knob modifies the parameter listed in the column directly
above it for the selected Effect row.
3. When the Drums row is selected, this knob adjusts the drum machine playback level.
4. When the Expression row is selected, this knob sets the toe value for the Expression
Pedal.
3. Edit buttons
These buttons navigate up and down the matrix, selecting the row of parameters which the
knobs will edit. Press one of these buttons to step through the Effect rows, and return to the
preset name display. See page 16 for more information about editing presets.
4. Matrix
The matrix provides information regarding the current preset and parameter edit functions. In
Performance mode, the LEDs running down the left side of the Matrix provide a visual indication
of which effects are in use for the currently selected preset. While editing a preset, the LEDs
indicate the Effect row currently selected for editing. In Tuner mode, the LEDs indicate whether
the note played is sharp, flat, or in tune.

9
5. Display
The Display provides information for different functions depending on the mode that has been
selected. In Performance mode, the Display will show the currently selected preset name and
number. In Edit mode, the Display will show the name and value of the parameter being adjusted.
In Tuner mode, the Display will show the note played.
6. Drums
The Drums button is used to turn on and off the RP255’s built-in drum machine. When the
Drums button is turned on, the Drums LED lights and the selected drum pattern plays continu-
ously. Select the Drums row using the Edit buttons and use Knobs 1-4 to change the style,
pattern, tempo, and level of the drum machine. See page 39 for more information about the drum
machine and a list of patterns.
Note: The drum machine cannot be used while the Phrase Looper is active.
7. Store
The Store button is used to save your custom edits to the user presets. See page 17 for more
information about storing presets.
8. Expression Pedal
The Expression Pedal provides real-time control of the RP255’s Volume,Wah, or the assigned
effect parameter. Almost every parameter is available for Expression Pedal control. The
Expression Pedal is equipped with a V-switch that activates or deactivates the Wah feature when
you apply extra pressure to the toe. See page 20 for more information about Wah models; see
page 42 to learn about adjusting V-switch sensitivity and calibrating the Expression Pedal; refer to
pages 45-46 for a list of parameters you can link to the Expression Pedal.

10
Rear Panel
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
1. Input
Connect your instrument to this high-impedance TS input.
2. Amp / Mixer
This button optimizes the RP255’s outputs for use when plugged into a guitar amp or a mixer/
recording device. When set to Mixer (“In” position), speaker compensation is turned on and the
outputs are optimized for connecting to a mixer, recording device or headphones. When set to
Amp (“Out” position), the outputs are optimized for running directly in to the input of a guitar
amp.
3. Left (Mono) and Right Outputs
Connect the Left (Mono) output to the input of a single amplifier (or mixer input) for mono
operation. Connect the Left and Right outputs to the inputs of 2 amplifiers (or 2 mixer channels)
for stereo operation.

11
4. Headphones
Connect a pair of stereo headphones to this 1/8" jack. For proper frequency response, the Amp/
Mixer switch should be set to Mixer (“In” position) when using headphones.
Note: The Headphones output can have either a mono or stereo signal, depending on what 1/4"
outputs are connected. If neither (or both) 1/4" outputs are connected, the Headphones output
will be in stereo. If a cable is connected to the Left (Mono) 1/4" output only, the Headphones
output will be in mono.
5. Aux In
Connect the headphone output of an MP3 or CD player using a stereo 1/8" cable to this 1/8"
stereo TRS jack for rehearsing with your favorite pre-recorded material. Adjust the output level
of your playback device and the RP255’s Master Level knob for the proper volume balance.
6. USB Port
The USB port is for connecting the RP255 to a computer and serves two purposes: (1) for use with
the downloadable X-Edit™ Editor/Librarian software, and (2) for streaming audio to and from the
computer when using the included Cubase®LE 4 software. Audio streaming is limited to 2 chan-
nels up and 2 channels down from the computer at 44.1kHz, 16 bit and 24 bit. A utility panel in
the Editor/Librarian controls the direct/playback mix with any recording software the RP255 is con-
nected to. Knobs2 and 3also control the direct/playback mix and USB record level when USB is
connected and the Pickup Row is selected.
Note: You can download the X-Edit Editor/Librarian software and USB drivers at www.digitech.
com.
7. Power Input
Connect only the DigiTech®PS0913B power supply to this jack.

12
Getting Started
Making Connections
There are several different connection options available with the RP255. Before connecting the
RP255, make sure that the power to your amplifier and the RP255 is turned off. There is no
power switch on the RP255. To turn the RP255 on or off, connect or disconnect the included
PS0913B power supply from the Power Input jack.
Mono Operation - Amplier
Connect your guitar to the Input of the RP255. Connect a single mono instrument cable from
the Left (Mono) output of the RP255 to the instrument input or effect return on your amplifier.
Set the Amp/Mixer switch to Amp.
Guitar Amp Input/Effect Return
Left (Mono)
Output Input
Amp/Mixer
switch set to
Amp.
NOTE: When using a
guitar amp, it may be best
to connect the guitar to the
Input of the RP255 and the
Output of the RP255 to the
effect return of the amplifier.

13
Stereo Operation
For stereo operation connect the guitar to the Input of the RP255. Connect one cable to the
RP255’s Left (Mono) output, and another cable to the RP255’s Right output. Connect one cable
to the input of one amplifier, channel of a mixer, or power amp. Connect the second cable to a
second amplifier, second channel of a mixer, or power amp. If connecting to a mixing console, set
the pan controls of the mixer channels hard left and right in order to retain stereo separation. If
connecting to a mixer, set the Amp/Mixer switch to Mixer. If connecting to two amplifiers, set
the Amp/Mixer switch to Amp.
Stereo Amp Setup
Guitar Amp Input/Effect Returns
Outputs Input
Amp/Mixer
switch set to
Amp.
NOTE: When using a guitar amp,
it may be best to connect the gui-
tar to the Input of the RP255 and
the Output of the RP255 to the
effect return of the amplifier.

14
Stereo Mixer Setup
Computer Recording Setup
Outputs
Instrument Input
Powered
Studio Monitor
Powered
Studio Monitor
USB
Amp/Mixer switch
set to Mixer
Outputs
Instrument Input
1 2 3 4 5 6
Mixer
Amp/Mixer switch
set to Mixer