For gain, max it, and for volume, adjust until the bypass out is the same as the effect out in volume. I never got a manual, as I got it used, but I did email Customer support, see below. I also use an Ibanez Eurgodyne, and a Trace chorus, a DOD flange, a Boss TU-2, a EH wah, and a variety of other items, including a Vox Essex, a Vox Beatle, and a vox AC15. I can deffinitely depend on it, as I take care of my equipment. It is made of a sturdy powder-coated Steel case, with sturdy switches and knobs.
Nice firm jacks too.
Ah, I hope that the founder of Trace Elliot is rolling over in his grave. Quick responce though- at most 2 hours. I've played on many items, and if this was stolen, I couldn't probably find a replacement, and so I would build myself a replica, as I have already marked the schematics, the day I got it. Very simple, dual FET cascading distortion box. TWO buttons on the wide box, each controls one stage of gain.