Acoustic Image + Models - Manual (Page 6)

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Mute Switch
If you are not getting any sound out of the amp, check to
make sure that the mute switch is off.
Stereo Operation (Clarus+)
Note that channel 2 will
not be heard through the speaker system connected to the amplifier
unless the Ch 2 switch is in the depressed or on position. If you are not
hearing channel 2 in the output, check to be sure that the switch is on.
Effects (Clarus+)
Headphone Output (Clarus+)
There is about a 5 second delay
between removal of the plug and the amp coming back on, so expect a
A switch is provided to allow you to mute the output of the amplifier without
having to turn the amp off. This will allow you to tune your instrument on stage
without being heard. The amp output and direct out signals are both muted by
the switch. The mute switch has a red button on it to remind you that it is an
important switch.
The two-channel preamp of the Clarus+ can be operated in stereo mode.
When it is in the “on” position, the switch labeled “Ch 2” connects the channel to
the internal power amp. When it is in the “off” position, it is disconnected from
the internal amp but is accessible from the channel 2 send output. By
connecting the send output to a satellite power amplifier, and putting the switch
in the off position, the preamp operates in stereo mode. Note that channel 2
remains in the direct out signal even when the switch is in the off position. This
is done since stereo operation is typically a “Stage” mode but not a “house”
mode (house systems are typically not stereo).
The Ch 2 switch has a red
button to remind you that is is an important switch.
Our high-quality effects units offer 6 program selections: 3 reverb programs
(Hall, Room and Plate), a delay, an ambient chorus and a flanger. There are
switches to select which of the two channels are processed by the effects unit.
Either channel can be connected to the effects unit. If both switches are
engaged, the selected program appears in both channels. A level control
affects the level of the reverb signal that is mixed with the “dry” signal to control
the overall effect of the selected program. You should experiment with both the
program selection and the level control to find the sound that you prefer. When
effects are not used, the switches for both channels should be off and the level
control should be turned fully counterclockwise.
There is a headphone output on the rear panel of the Clarus+. You can plug a
standard 1/4 inch stereo plug into this output to connect a headphone for
private listening. If your headphone has a 1/8th inch plug, you can buy an
adapter to allow you to use the 1/4 inch output jack.
When you plug into the jack, the amp is muted. Sound will only be heard
through the headphones. The headphone is connected to the output of the
preamp so all of the controls on the preamp, including effects, will affect the
signal heard through the headphone. When the headphone plug is removed
from the jack, the amp will come back on.
Note that the flange effect is
noisy, it is normal the hear the modulation of the flanger when no signal is present.
pause before you will hear anything from the amp after the headphone is
removed. Anytime anything is plugged into the headphone output jack, the
amp will be muted so make sure that nothing is plugged into the jack when you
want to use the amp normally.
Speakers are connected to the amps via Neutrik Speakon connectors (”twist
lock” type). These connectors are used because of their low contact resistance
and non-shorting operation. The output of each Speakon connector is wired to
pole “1.” Make sure the cables you use to connect a speaker are similarly
wired.
The power amp of both amps is capable of driving speaker loads as low as 2
ohms. Use a high quality speaker system in order to get the maximum
performance from the amp. The Acoustic Image Contra EX or Corus EX are
excellent choices.
The power amp is short circuit protected. If a short is connected to one of the
speaker jacks, the output signal will be interrupted until the short is removed. If
a short is present, you will hear a ticking sound at 3 to 4 second intervals which
indicates that the short circuit protection is working.
We highly recommend the use of Speakon connectors at both the amp and
speaker ends of the connecting cable. If you use these connectors, you will get
the highest possible performance and reliability from your amp. Conversion of
your speaker to Speakon connectors is a simple job. Contact your local repair
shop or Acoustic Image for more information. A Speakon to 1/4 inch adapter is
included with the amp to be used in emergency situations when you cannot find
a Speakon to Speakon cable.
All Acoustic Image amps can be operated without a speaker load if required.
The small size and light weight of the amps allow them to be placed almost
anywhere that is convenient for the performer. The best results will be achieved
from the amp/speaker combination if the resistance of the speaker cable is
kept as low as possible. That means that a shorter cable is better.
The amp chassis is made of powder coated aluminum. A little caution in how it
is handled will keep it looking new for years to come. Use a clean, dry cloth to
wipe the surfaces of the amplifier. Note that there are no user-serviceable parts
inside the amp. Refer servicing to qualified Acoustic Image or other
technicians.
Power Amp
Amp Placement
To be on the safe side,
you should shut off the power to the amp before connecting or
disconnecting speakers from the unit.
When operating without a speaker attached, turn the master level to zero
(all the way counterclockwise). This will prevent the power amp section
of the amp from being driven and protect it from damage.
Care
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