Are you looking for a traditional multi-effects unit to plug directly into the front of an amp and access effects? Perhaps you’d rather keep it simple and send audio directly to the front of house using onboard AIRD amp modeling technology. There are several ways to connect your BOSS ME-90. Let’s walk through some common ways to connect the ME-90.
ME-90 in Front of Amp
One of the most popular and effective ways to connect the ME-90 is directly into the front of your chosen amp. Connect the guitar to the input of the ME-90. Then, connect the ME-90 output to the guitar amp in. Whether using the clean channel, drive channel, or a combination of the two, adding effects from the ME-90 is easy.
To do so, use the power and preamp from the amp and the effects from the ME-90. Ensure the preamp section of the ME-90 is not engaged. Use Manual mode to switch effects on and off independently. Or use Memory mode to recall any of the 36 user patch slots and activate multiple effects per patch. When using amp channels, select the Gt. Amp switch on the back of the unit.
Using the BOSS Katana Power Amp In
Want to use the ME-90’s onboard AIRD preamp and EQ sections? Connect the ME-90 to a powered (FR) speaker or use the Power Amp In connection found on BOSS Katana MkII Amps. Then, use the line output setting.
The Katana MkII rocks as a standalone amp, but it also excels as a powered cabinet for a multi-effects unit, such as the ME-90. Connecting to the rear-panel Power Amp In jack bypasses Katana MkII’s preamp and effects. This lets you tap straight into the Tube Logic power section with grab-and-go power control. And with BOSS Tone Studio, the input can be easily optimized with a high-pass filter and adjustable gain.
Using the BOSS Katana and ME-90 affords great flexibility in different playing situations. Try both together or independently—whatever best suits the playing environment.
"The Katana MkII rocks as a standalone amp, but it also excels as a powered cabinet for a multi-effects unit, such as the ME-90."
Connecting the ME-90 to a DAW
Some users connect directly to a PC/DAW via USB or audio. If you have a home studio setup, this makes it easy to integrate the ME-90 with existing powered speakers. You can connect the ME-90 directly and transmit/receive audio using the onboard USB. Or connect the L (Mono) and R outputs to individual channels on your audio interface to play and record ME-90 audio using your chosen software. System settings/device parameters will also help achieve the correct audio settings.
Connect the ME-90 Direct to Front of House/PA
For gigging musicians, using AIRD amp models and speaker emulation direct to front of house or a PA system is a preferred choice. It makes the ME-90 a gigging solution for singer-songwriters, cover-band guitarists, and others. Send the output direct to a mixer or portable PA, and enjoy the ME-90 in a live environment.
AIRD amps are tuned to speaker emulations. In addition, using the ME-90 Impulse Response Loader software, you can also upload your IRs.
Headphones for Silent Practice
Practicing with headphones can be an invaluable option for many guitar players. With the ME-90, you’ll benefit from amps and effects that players can combine and customize to suit practice and songwriting needs. Connecting headphones and getting a great sound is easy whether on the go or trying not to disturb the household or neighbors. Set the Gt. AMP/LINE switch to LINE, connect headphones, and the ME-90 becomes an excellent portable practice rig. By using battery power, one can access a whole suite of sounds anywhere.
"Connecting headphones and getting a great sound is easy whether on the go or trying not to disturb the household or neighbors."
Connection is Key
By connecting the ME-90, the sky is the limit. These are just a few of the versatile uses of this powerful pedal. Great for gigging, practicing at home, and recording, the ME-90 is an excellent choice for musicians of all kinds.
