The ENGL Z-12 is a MIDI controller and switcher made by ENGL, designed to store and recall sounds on a MIDI-capable amp. It holds 128 program slots, which RockBoard's PedalPedia says offer plenty of space for all your favorite tones, and it sits on the floor as a foot controller rather than processing your guitar signal itself1.
Power and connections
The Z-12 can be powered two ways. With a MIDI-capable ENGL amp that has the MIDI phantom power option, it draws power over the MIDI cable, so no separate supply is needed on the pedalboard. Without that, it runs on a 9V DC, center negative power supply with a current draw of 100mA1.
The 100mA current draw is higher than many standard pedal power supplies deliver per outlet, so it may not share an outlet on a daisy chain with other pedals. A dedicated supply output or the MIDI phantom power option from a compatible ENGL amp covers it1.
Build and use on stage
The housing is stainless steel, which RockBoard's PedalPedia describes as built to withstand all the rigors of the road1. As a controller rather than an effect, it does not sit in the guitar signal path: it sends program changes and switching commands to the amp, so your tone comes from the amp's own channels and settings, recalled from one of the 128 slots1.
Videos
Bill's Guitar Garage - Bill Taylor
Questions
Can the ENGL Z-12 be powered through the MIDI cable?
Yes. When used with a MIDI-capable ENGL amp that has the MIDI phantom power option, the Z-12 draws its power over the MIDI cable itself, so no separate supply is needed. Otherwise, it runs on a 9V DC, center negative power supply rated for 100mA.
What power supply does the ENGL Z-12 use?
The Z-12 uses a 9V DC, center negative power supply with a current draw of 100mA. If you connect it to a MIDI-capable ENGL amp with the MIDI phantom power option, it can instead be powered through the MIDI cable and needs no supply of its own.
How many presets does the ENGL Z-12 store?
The Z-12 stores 128 program slots, which ENGL says offer plenty of space for all your favourite tones. Each slot recalls a saved setup on a connected MIDI-capable amp.
Is the ENGL Z-12 analog or digital?
ENGL lists the Z-12's circuit type as analog. It is a MIDI controller and switcher rather than a sound-shaping effect, so it sends program changes and switching commands rather than processing your guitar signal.
Where can I download the ENGL Z-12 manual?
The English manual for the Z-12 is available as a PDF from ENGL's website at engl-amps.com, under the file om_z12.pdf in the uploads folder for December 2021.
Sources (1)
- Z12 by ENGL, RockBoard PedalPedia, 2026