Using the Vox Stomplab 2 is a breeze. First, turn it on with either 4 AA batteries (included just for testing) or a 9V AC adapter (optional). Then, use the intuitive interface to choose from the 100 preset programs or create your own with the 20 user programs. To tune your instrument, simply activate the chromatic tuner and adjust your strings until they're in the right pitch. When you're ready to play, plug your bass or guitar into the normal input jack and connect your headphones to the stereo headphone jack. As for maintenance, keep it in a dry place and avoid dropping it as it has a durable metal body but could still get damaged. If you're not using it for a long time, remove the batteries to prevent leakage.