Notices
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Proper display is not possible on grayscale devices.
Notes about this Operation Manual
You might need this manual in the future. Always keep it in a place where you can access it easily.
The contents of this document and the specifications of the product could be changed without notice.
Windows® is a trademark or registered trademark of Microsoft® Corporation.
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App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc.
iOS is a trademark or registered trademark of Cisco Systems, Inc. (USA).
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The illustrations and display screens in this document could differ from the actual product.
Terms used in this manual
Patch memory
Patch memories store effects and amps used, effect on/off states and parameter setting values, allowing easy recall. Effects are saved and recalled in units of patch memories. A single patch memory can include up to 6 effects plus 1 pedal effect. Up to 300 patch memories can be saved.
Effect type
The available effect types include various guitar effects and amp/cabinet simulation models. Effects can be selected from these types to be added to patch memories.
Category
Effects are grouped by type into categories.
Auto save
This function automatically saves changes to patch memory and effect settings.
ECO mode
This function will automatically turn the power off 10 hours after the last operation.
Looper
Mono phrases that are up to 80 seconds long can be recorded and played back repeatedly.
This can be synchronized with rhythm patterns.
Preselect
This function allows continued use of the current patch memory sound while switching to another patch memory at a distant number.
G2 FOUR/G2X FOUR structure
Signal flow
- Patch memory
- The input guitar sound passes through effects, followed by amp and speaker cabinet models, in order. (→ Adjusting effect parameters)
- Looper
- Recorded loops can be played back. (→ Using the looper while playing)
- Rhythm
- Drum sounds can be played back using internal rhythm patterns. (→ Using rhythms)
- Master EQ
- This adjusts the overall tonal character. This setting is retained even when the patch memory is changed. (→ Adjusting the overall tonal character and output level)
- Tuner
- Use this to tune the connected guitar. (→ Using the tuner)
- Master volume
- This adjusts the overall volume. This setting is retained even when the patch memory is changed. (→ Adjusting the overall tonal character and output level)
- USB AUDIO
- Data can be exchanged with computers and smartphones using the audio interface function. (→ Using audio interface functions)
- AUX IN
- Audio can be played back from a smartphone, portable audio player or other device.
- OUTPUT
- An amp or powered monitors can be connected.
- PHONES
- Headphones can also be connected.
Memory overview (patch memories)
Patch memories
These store the effects used, their order, on/off states and parameter settings. Effects can be saved and recalled in patch memory units. 300 patch memories can be stored.
Functions of parts
Top
- Direction buttons
- Use these to select patch memories and effects, for example.
They can be operated by foot.
- Display
- This shows information, including the names of the selected patch memory and its effects along with their parameter values.
- Parameter knobs
- Use these to adjust effect parameters and make various settings.
- Expression pedal/indicator (G2X FOUR only)
- Adjust the depth of pedal effects. (→ Setting pedal effects)
Press the front of the pedal to turn the pedal effect on/off. (When on, the indicator lights.)
- Footswitches/indicators
- Use these to select patch memories and turn effects on/off.
When the Effect Screen is open, the indicators show whether effects are on or off.
Back
- INPUT jack
- Connect a guitar here.
- AUX IN jack
- Connect a portable music player or similar device here.
- OUTPUT jacks
- Connect a guitar amp or powered monitors here.
- CONTROL IN jack (G2 FOUR only)
- Connect an expression pedal (ZOOM FP02M) here, and use it to adjust a pedal effect.
- POWER switch
- This turns the power on/off.
- DC 9V AC adapter connector
- Connect the dedicated AC adapter (ZOOM AD-16) here.
Side
- USB (Type-C) port
- Connected to a computer, smartphone or tablet, this can be used as an audio interface.
By using Handy Guitar Lab, you can manage patch memories and edit and add effects, for example, from a smartphone or tablet.
This supports operation on USB bus power.
- PHONES output jack
- Connect headphones here.
Handy Guitar Lab for G2 FOUR can be downloaded from the App Store and Google Play.
Screens that appear on the display
The G2 FOUR/G2X FOUR is operated with buttons and knobs while viewing the display.
This section explains the screens shown on the display.
Memory Screen
This opens when the power is turned on.
This shows patch memories, allowing them to be selected for performing and editing.
- Patch memory numbers
- Footswitches – can be used to select the patch memories that are shown currently.
Use / to select a patch memory one lower or higher. Use and to select a patch memory 10 places away.
The selected patch memory is highlighted.
- Patch memory name
- This shows the name of the selected patch memory.
Opening the Memory Screen
When the MENU Screen or Effect Screen is open: Press .
When the Library Screen is open: Confirm the selected effect to open the Effect Screen, and press .
Effect Screen
Patch memories can be edited.
- Effects
- This shows the effects in the selected patch memory.
Use and to select effects. The selected effect will appear slightly raised.
- Name of current patch memory
- Effects that are being shown
- Up to 3 effects can be shown on the display. The black circles indicate the positions of the effects that are being shown.
Opening the Effect Screen
When the Memory Screen or MENU Screen is open: Press .
When the Library Screen is open: Press to confirm the selected effect.
Library Screen
Effects in patch memories can be changed.
- Selected effect
- The selected effect is shown larger and in the center.
- Effect list
- Effects in the same category are lined up vertically. Use and to select effects in the same category.
Use and to select effects in different categories.
Opening the Library Screen
Select the effect to be changed on the Effect Screen, and press or .
Exiting the Library Screen
Press to confirm the selected effect and open the Effect Screen.
MENU Screen
Various G2 FOUR/G2X FOUR settings can be made on this screen.
- Setting items
- Use and to select the setting items shown with icons.
- Footswitches
- Press footswitches – that correspond to the icons shown on the screen to open their settings screens.
Using the MENU Screen
Making connections
- Guitar
- Portable music player, etc.
- Adjust the volume on the connected device.
- AC adapter (ZOOM AD-16)
- Powered monitors
- Guitar amp
- Expression pedal (ZOOM FP02M) (G2 FOUR only)
- A pedal can be used to control effects.
- Computer (Mac/Windows), smartphone or tablet
- Connect with a USB cable (Type-C).
The G2 FOUR/G2X FOUR can be used as an audio interface and with Handy Guitar Lab.
- Headphones
The Handy Guitar Lab for G2 FOUR app (iOS/iPadOS/Android) can be used to manage patch memories and to edit and add effects. Handy Guitar Lab for G2 FOUR can be downloaded from the App Store and Google Play.
Turning the power on/off
Turning the power on
Turning the power off
Adjusting the overall tonal character and output level
The volume and tonal character of sound output from the G2 FOUR/G2X FOUR can be adjusted.
Switching patch memories while playing (Memory Screen)
The G2 FOUR/G2X FOUR manages effects in patch memories. Up to 6 effects plus 1 pedal effect can be added to a patch memory, and their on/off states and parameter settings can be saved in it.
On the Memory Screen, the patch memory being used can be switched while playing.
- On the Memory Screen, use , , and along with footswitches – to select patch memories.
Use / to select a patch memory one lower or higher.
/ can be used to select a patch memory 10 places away.
The patch memories shown on the Memory Screen can be selected directly by pressing footswitches – .
The indicator for the selected patch memory lights.
Up to 300 patch memories can be created.
The PRESELECT function can be used when the Memory Screen is open. This allows the next patch memory to be selected in advance and then switched to with one press. This is useful for switching to patch memories that are not near the current one when performing live. (→ Using the PRESELECT function)
Using the PRESELECT function
The PRESELECT function can be used when the Memory Screen is open.
When the PRESELECT function is ON, using / / / will put the patch memory change into standby until footswitch – is pressed to confirm the change.
This makes it possible to switch directly to a patch memory that is not near the current one during live performance.
Turning the PRESELECT function on/off
Selecting patch memories when the PRESELECT function is on
Editing effects (Effect Screen)
Use the Effect Screen to work with effects, including, changing them and adjusting their parameters.
Patch memories can be edited.
When the AUTO SAVE function is ON, changes to patch memories will be automatically saved. (This function is ON by default.) (→ Setting the AUTO SAVE function)
Patch memories will not be saved automatically if the AUTO SAVE function is OFF. When the content of a patch memory has been changed, will appear at the top right of the display, showing that it is different from the saved settings.
Save it as necessary. (→ Copying and saving patch memories)
Opening the Effect Screen
Turning effects on/off
On the Effect Screen, the effects and amp used in the patch memory are shown on the display and can be turned on and off using the footswitches.
Replacing effects
Effects in a patch memory can be replaced with other effects as desired.
Adding effects
When a number icon like is shown, no effect has been assigned to that position. To add an effect, select a number icon in step 2. Then, select an effect starting in step 3.
The position of an added effect can be changed by following the instructions in “Changing the order of effects”.
Deleting effects
Select the effect to be deleted in step 2. Then, select a number icon like in step 4.
Note about the number of effects in patch memories
The G2 FOUR/G2X FOUR can be used to freely combine 6 effects plus 1 pedal effect. If the processing capability limit is exceeded, however, a “PROCESS OVERFLOW” warning will appear and effects will be bypassed. Change one of the effects to end this condition.
Adjusting effect parameters
The individual effects used in patch memories can be adjusted.
Footswitch special functions
Some effects assign special functions to footswitches, including turning the effect on only while the footswitch is being pressed. Parameters that select special functions appear on the display as light letters on a dark background.
Changing the order of effects
Effects in a patch memory can be reordered as desired.
Adjusting the tempo
The tempo used by rhythms, the looper, delay effects and some modulation effects can be adjusted.
Tempo is set separately for each patch memory.
Managing patch memories
Changing patch memory names
The characters and symbols that can be used are as follows.
! % & ' + , - . = _ (space) A–Z, a–z, 0–9
Copying and saving patch memories
The AUTO SAVE function is on by default. When it is off, changes, including adjustments to effects and amps, as well as volume settings, will not be saved automatically. Save changes manually in this case.
Patch memories can also be saved (copied) to other locations.
See “Setting the AUTO SAVE function” for details about the AUTO SAVE function.
Deleting patch memories
Unnecessary patch memories can be deleted.
Creating patch memories
New patch memories can be created.
Reverting patch memory changes
After changing a patch memory, it can be reset to the state it was in immediately after it was selected or to the factory default state.
Using the tuner
Activating the tuner
Enable the tuner to use the G2 FOUR/G2X FOUR to tune a guitar.
Closing the tuner
Press footswitch – when the tuner is in use to close it and reopen the previous screen.
Changing tuner settings
The standard pitch used by the tuner and the tuner type can be changed. Flat tuning is also possible.
Setting the output method
Turn to set the output method.
Setting | Explanation |
---|---|
BYPASS | Effects are bypassed and the guitar sound is output. |
MUTE | The guitar sound is not output. |
Adjusting the EQ and volume of a guitar amp, for example, is easier if the G2 FOUR/G2X FOUR effects are bypassed.
Changing the standard pitch of the tuner
Turn to change the standard pitch.
The setting range is 430–450 Hz for middle A.
Selecting the tuner type
Turn to select the tuner type.
Setting | Explanation |
---|---|
CHROMATIC | The pitch detuning is shown according to the nearest note (in semitones). |
Other tuner types | The nearest string number is shown according to the selected type, and the amount of detuning from its pitch is shown. The following tuner types can be selected. |
Display | Explanation | String number/note | ||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
7 | 6 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 | ||
GUITAR | Standard guitar tuning with a 7th string | B | E | A | D | G | B | E |
OPEN A | Open A tuning (open strings play A chord) | – | E | A | E | A | C# | E |
OPEN D | Open D tuning (open strings play D chord) | – | D | A | D | F# | A | D |
OPEN E | Open E tuning (open strings play E chord) | – | E | B | E | G# | B | E |
OPEN G | Open G tuning (open strings play G chord) | – | D | G | D | G | B | D |
DADGAD | Alternate tuning often used for tapping and other techniques | – | D | A | D | G | A | D |
Using flat tunings
All strings can be tuned flat from an ordinary tuning by 1 (♭× 1 ), 2 (♭× 2 ) or 3 (♭× 3 ) semitones.
Turn to set flat tuning.
Flat tuning cannot be used when the tuner type is CHROMATIC.
Using a pedal
A pedal effect selected in the patch memory can be applied by operating the built-in expression pedal (G2X FOUR only) or a connected expression pedal (ZOOM FP02M) (G2 FOUR only).
Setting pedal effects
Calibrating the pedal (G2X FOUR only)
Calibrate the built-in expression pedal to adjust its sensitivity.
Using rhythms
You can play along with built-in rhythms.
Setting the rhythm effect
On the G2 FOUR/G2X FOUR, one rhythm can be used as an effect, and it can be started and stopped by turning the effect on/off.
Select the rhythm effect on the Effect Screen to make various rhythms settings, including rhythm pattern selection and tempo.
Each patch memory can have only one rhythm effect set.
Starting/stopping rhythm playback
Rhythm playback can be started and stopped.
Rhythm patterns
No. | Pattern Name | Time Sig. | No. | Pattern Name | Time Sig. | No. | Pattern Name | Time Sig. |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | GUIDE | 4/4 | 24 | R&B1 | 4/4 | 47 | JAZZ2 | 4/4 |
2 | 8BEATS1 | 4/4 | 25 | R&B2 | 4/4 | 48 | FUSION | 4/4 |
3 | 8BEATS2 | 4/4 | 26 | 70S SOUL | 4/4 | 49 | SWING1 | 4/4 |
4 | 8BEATS3 | 4/4 | 27 | 90S SOUL | 4/4 | 50 | SWING2 | 4/4 |
5 | 16BEATS1 | 4/4 | 28 | MOTOWN | 4/4 | 51 | BOSSA1 | 4/4 |
6 | 16BEATS2 | 4/4 | 29 | HIPHOP | 4/4 | 52 | BOSSA2 | 4/4 |
7 | 16BEATS3 | 4/4 | 30 | DISCO | 4/4 | 53 | SAMBA1 | 4/4 |
8 | ROCK1 | 4/4 | 31 | POP | 4/4 | 54 | SAMBA2 | 4/4 |
9 | ROCK2 | 4/4 | 32 | POPROCK | 4/4 | 55 | BREAKS1 | 4/4 |
10 | ROCK3 | 4/4 | 33 | INDIEPOP | 4/4 | 56 | BREAKS2 | 4/4 |
11 | ROCKABLY | 4/4 | 34 | EUROPOP | 4/4 | 57 | BREAKS3 | 4/4 |
12 | R'N'R | 4/4 | 35 | NEWWAVE | 4/4 | 58 | 12/8 GRV | 12/8 |
13 | HARDROCK | 4/4 | 36 | ONEDROP | 4/4 | 59 | WALTZ | 3/4 |
14 | HEAVYMTL | 4/4 | 37 | STEPPERS | 4/4 | 60 | JZWALTZ1 | 3/4 |
15 | MTLCORE | 4/4 | 38 | ROCKERS | 4/4 | 61 | JZWALTZ2 | 3/4 |
16 | PUNK | 4/4 | 39 | SKA | 4/4 | 62 | CTWALTZ1 | 3/4 |
17 | FASTPUNK | 4/4 | 40 | 2ND LINE | 4/4 | 63 | CTWALTZ2 | 3/4 |
18 | EMO | 4/4 | 41 | COUNTRY | 4/4 | 64 | 5/4 GRV | 5/4 |
19 | TOMTOMBT | 4/4 | 42 | SHUFFLE1 | 4/4 | 65 | METRO3 | 3/4 |
20 | FUNK1 | 4/4 | 43 | SHUFFLE2 | 4/4 | 66 | METRO4 | 4/4 |
21 | FUNK2 | 4/4 | 44 | BLUES1 | 4/4 | 67 | METRO5 | 5/4 |
22 | FUNKROCK | 4/4 | 45 | BLUES2 | 4/4 | 68 | METRO | |
23 | JAZZFUNK | 4/4 | 46 | JAZZ1 | 4/4 |
Using the looper while playing
Playing can be record to create mono loop phrases that are up to 80 seconds long.
Setting the looper effect
Various looper settings can be made.
On the G2 FOUR/G2X FOUR, one looper can be used as an effect, and it can be started and stopped by turning the effect on/off.
Select the looper effect on the Effect Screen to make various looper settings, including loop recording time and volume.
Each patch memory can have only one looper effect set.
Setting the recording time
The recording time for the loop can be set.
Setting the UNDO function
This turns on/off the undo function that can be used to undo the last recorded overdub of a loop.
Setting the stop mode
How the looper behaves when stopped can be set.
Adjusting the volume
The looper volume can be adjusted.
Notes about the looper tempo
The looper tempo is also used by effects and rhythms.
The tempo can be set as explained in “Adjusting the tempo”.
Changing the tempo will delete recorded loops in the following cases.
If the looper recording time is set to ♩×1–64 (→ Setting the recording time)
If a rhythm is playing (→ Using rhythms)
If the rhythm pre-count function is on, recording will start after the pre-count. (→ Setting the rhythm effect)
Sound input through the AUX IN jack will not be recorded.
During rhythm playback (→ Using rhythms), quantization is enabled so even if the recording ending time is not exact, the loop will automatically be adjusted so that loop playback stays in time.
Looper operations
Looper recording, playback and other operations can be conducted when the looper effect is shown on the Effect Screen.
During looper recording and playback, it will continue recording or playing even if is pressed to switch to the Memory Screen. In this case, switching the patch memory will stop recording/playback.
Pressing / to open the Library Screen will stop recording/playback and erase the recorded data.
Recording loops
Stopping recording and starting loop playback
Stopping playback
Starting loop playback of the recorded phrase
Adding performances to recorded loops (overdubbing)
Erasing the last overdubbed phrase (UNDO function)
The UNDO function can be used when it is set to ON. (→ Setting the UNDO function)
Restoring an undone overdub (REDO function)
Clearing loops
Using audio interface functions
The G2 FOUR/G2X FOUR can be used as a 2-in/2-out audio interface.
From the G2 FOUR/G2X FOUR, 2 channels of audio signals after effect processing can be sent to a computer or smartphone.
From a computer or smartphone, 2 audio signal channels can be input to a position after the effect processing.
See Signal flow for details about input and output positions.
Installing drivers
Windows computers
Mac computers, smartphones and tablets
No driver is necessary for use with a Mac, smartphone or tablet.
Connecting with a computer, smartphone or tablet.
Operating the G2 FOUR/G2X FOUR from a smartphone/tablet
This enables control of the G2 FOUR/G2X FOUR from a smartphone/tablet using the iOS/iPadOS/Android Handy Guitar Lab for G2 FOUR app.
The dedicated Handy Guitar Lab for G2 FOUR app must be installed on the smartphone/tablet beforehand. The dedicated Handy Guitar Lab for G2 FOUR app can be downloaded from the App Store and Google Play. For setting and operation procedures using the Handy Guitar Lab for G2 FOUR app, see its operation manual.
Making unit settings
Selecting the type of connected equipment
Select the type of equipment connected to the G2 FOUR/G2X FOUR output.
See “Using the MENU Screen” for details about operation.
Setting the AUTO SAVE function
When the AUTO SAVE function is ON, patch memories will be saved automatically when their contents are changed.
See “Using the MENU Screen” for details about operation.
Setting the ECO mode
This function can be used to turn the power off automatically if unused for 10 hours.
See “Using the MENU Screen” for details about operation.
Changing the start-up setting
The Output Screen, which allows selection of the connected output device type, opens when the G2 FOUR/G2X FOUR starts up by default. A setting can be changed so that the Output Screen is not shown at start up every time.
See “Using the MENU Screen” for details about operation.
Adjusting the display contrast
The display contrast can be adjusted.
See “Using the MENU Screen” for details about operation.
Managing the firmware
Checking the firmware versions
The firmware versions used by the G2 FOUR/G2X FOUR can be checked.
See “Using the MENU Screen” for details about operation.
Updating
The G2 FOUR/G2X FOUR firmware can be updated to the latest versions.
The latest firmware can be downloaded from the ZOOM website (zoomcorp.com).
Restoring factory default settings
The factory default settings can be restored.
See “Using the MENU Screen” for details about operation.
Appendix
Troubleshooting
The unit will not power on
Confirm that the POWER switch is set to ON. (→ Turning the power on/off)
Check the connections. (→ Making connections)
There is no sound or output is very quiet
Check the connections. (→ Making connections)
Adjust the levels of the effects. (→ Adjusting effect parameters)
Adjust the output volume. (→ Adjusting the overall tonal character and output level)
If you are using an expression pedal to adjust the volume, adjust the pedal position until the volume level is suitable.
Confirm that the tuner output is not set to “MUTE”. (→ Setting the output method)
There is a lot of noise
Confirm that an instrument cable is not the cause.
Use a genuine ZOOM AC adapter. (→ Making connections)
An effect cannot be selected
If the effect processing power is being exceeded, “PROCESS OVERFLOW” will appear on the display. When “PROCESS OVERFLOW” appears for an effect, it will be bypassed. (→ Note about the number of effects in patch memories)
Expression pedal does not work well
Select a pedal effect. (→ Using a pedal)
Check the expression pedal connection. (→ Making connections)
Specifications
Maximum number of simultaneous effects | 6 effects + 1 pedal effect | |
User patch memories | 300 | |
Sampling frequency | 44.1 kHz | |
A/D conversion | 24-bit 128× oversampling | |
D/A conversion | 24-bit 128× oversampling | |
Signal processing | 32-bit | |
Frequency response | 20 Hz – 20 kHz (+0.5 dB/−0.5 dB) (10 kΩ load) | |
Display | 256×128 dot-matrix LCD | |
Inputs | INPUT | Standard mono phone jack Rated input level: −20 dBu Input impedance (line): 470 kΩ |
AUX IN | Stereo mini jack Rated input level: −10 dBu Input impedance (line): 10 kΩ | |
Outputs | LEFT/RIGHT | Standard mono phone jack Maximum output level: +9.3 dBu (when output impedance 10 kΩ or higher) |
PHONES | Stereo mini jack Maximum output power: 20 mW + 20 mW (into 32 Ω load) | |
Input S/N | 122 dB | |
Noise floor (residual noise) | LEFT/RIGHT | –99.3 dBu |
PHONES | –99.3 dBu | |
Control input | FP02M input (G2 FOUR only) | |
Power | AC adapter: 9V DC 500mA center negative (ZOOM AD-16) | |
USB | USB 2.0 Type-C port (use cable that supports Type-C) Handy Guitar Lab: USB 1.1 Full Speed Audio interface: USB 2.0 Full Speed, 44.1 kHz, 32-bit, 2-in/2-out • Use a USB cable that supports data transfer. USB bus power is supported. | |
Dimensions | G2 FOUR | 145 mm (D) × 184 mm (W) × 71 mm (H) |
G2X FOUR | 150 mm (D) × 274 mm (W) × 71 mm (H) | |
Weight | G2 FOUR | 707 g |
G2X FOUR | 951 g |
Note: 0 dBu = 0.775 V