AMPEG PRO SVT-3PRO SVT-3PRO_OM.pdf

SVT-3 PRO

Bass Guitar Amplifier

BRT

-15dB

HI

LO

PEAK /
MUTE

MASTER TUBE GAINTREBLEFREQUENCYMIDRANGEBASSGAININPUT

+12dB

MUTE

0

-12dB

EQ

ON

zHk9zH33 5kHz2kHz900Hz600Hz300Hz150Hz80Hz

+8dB

POWER

LEVEL

-10dB

ON

Owner’s Manual

Important Safety Instructions ........................................................................................................... 2–3

"voltage dangereux" non isolé d'ampleur suffisante pour constituer un risque

pour alerter les utilisateurs de la présence d'instructions importantes pour le

Introduction / Features ........................................................................................................................ 4

The Front Panel .............................................................................................................................. 5–7

The Rear Panel ............................................................................................................................... 8–9

Suggested Settings .......................................................................................................................... 10

Personal Settings.............................................................................................................................. 11

Rack Mounting / Thermal Considerations............................................................................................ 12

Block Diagram .................................................................................................................................. 13

Technical Specifications ....................................................................................................................14

Troubleshooting / Service Information ................................................................................................15

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

SVT-3 PRO Bass Guitar Amplifier

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Read these instructions.

2. Keep these instructions.

3. Heed all warnings.

4. Follow all instructions.

5. Do not use this apparatus near water.

6. Clean only with a dry cloth.

7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in
accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

8. Do not install near any heat sources such as
radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other
apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.

9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the
polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug
has two blades with one wider than the other. A
grounding-type plug has two blades and a third
grounding prong. The wide blade or the third
prong are provided for your safety. If the provided
plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an
electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.

10.

Protect the power cord from being walked
on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience
receptacles, and the point where they exit from
the apparatus.

11.

Only use attachments/accessories specified
by the manufacturer.

12.

Use only with a cart, stand,
tripod, bracket, or table specified

PORTABLE CART

WARNING

by the manufacturer, or sold with
the apparatus. When a cart is used,
use caution when moving the cart/
apparatus combination to avoid
injury from tip-over.

13.

Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms
or when unused for long periods of time.

14.

Refer all servicing to qualified service
personnel. Servicing is required when the
apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as

2

power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has
been spilled or objects have fallen into the
apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to
rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or
has been dropped.

15.

Do not overload wall outlets and extension
cords as this can result in a risk of fire or electric
shock.

16.

This apparatus shall not be exposed to
dripping or splashing, and no object filled with
liquids, such as vases or beer glasses, shall be
placed on the apparatus.

17.

This apparatus has been designed with Class-I
construction and must be connected to a mains
socket outlet with a protective earthing connection
(the third grounding prong).

18.

The MAINS plug or an appliance coupler is
used as the disconnect device, so the disconnect
device shall remain readily operable.

19.

For the terminals marked with symbol of “ ”
may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk
of electric shock. The external wiring
connected to the terminals requires installation by
an instructed person or the used of ready-made
leads or cords.

CAUTION AVIS

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK. DO NOT OPEN

RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE. NE PAS OUVRIR

CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK)

NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL

ATTENTION: POUR EVITER LES RISQUES DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE, NE PAS ENLEVER LE COUVERCLE.

AVIS: POUR EVITER LES RISQUES D'INCENDIE OU D'ELECTROCUTION, N'EXPOSEZ PAS CET ARTICLE

AUCUN ENTRETIEN DE PIECES INTERIEURES PAR L'USAGER.

CONFIER L'ENTRETIEN AU PERSONNEL QUALIFIE.

The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol within an equilateral triangle is
intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated "dangerous
voltage" within the product's enclosure, that may be of sufficient magnitude
to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.

Le symbole éclair avec point de flèche à l'intérieur d'un triangle équilatéral
est utilisé pour alerter l'utilisateur de la présence à l'intérieur du coffret de

d'éléctrocution.

The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the
user of the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing)
instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.

Le point d'exclamation à l'intérieur d'un triangle équilatéral est employé

fonctionnement et l'entretien (service) dans le livret d'instruction
accompagnant l'appareil.

A LA PLUIE OU A L'HUMIDITE

WARNING — To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not

expose this apparatus to rain or moisture.

NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply
with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of
the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference in a residential installation.
This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency
energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruc­tions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a
particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interfer­ence to radio or television reception, which can be determined by
turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to
correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

• Increase the separation between the equipment and the
receiver.

• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different
from that to which the receiver is connected.

• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for
help.

CAUTION: Changes or modifications to this device not expressly
approved by Yamaha Guitar Group, Inc. could void the user's
authority to operate the equipment under FCC rules.

This apparatus does not exceed the Class A/Class B (whichever
is applicable)
tus as
Department

limits for radio noise emissions from digital appara-

set out in the radio interference regulations of the Canadian

of Communications.

CONSIGNES DE SECURITE IMPORTANTES

- LIRE, SUIVRE TOUTES LES INSTRUCTIONS ET LES PRECAUTIONS D’UTILISATION

- NE PAS UTILISER PROCHE D’UNE SOURCE DE CHALEUR ET NE PAS BLOQUER OU OBSTRUER LE SYSTEME DE VENTILATION SUR CET APPAREIL. POUR UNE

UTILISATION CONFORME, CET APPAREIL NECESSITE ENVIRON 7CM D’ESPACE BIEN VENTILE AUTOUR DE SON SYSTEME DE REFROIDISSEMENT, AINSI QU’UN COURANT
D’AIR FRAIS CONSTANT

- NE PAS UTILISER CET APPAREIL PROCHE D’UNE SOURCE LIQUIDE

- NETTOYER SEULEMENT A L’AIDE D’UN CHIFFON DOUX ET SEC ET NE PAS UTILISER DE PRODUITS MENAGERS

- CONNECTER UNIQUEMENT LE CABLE D’ALIMENTATION FOURNI SUR UNE PRISE AVEC MISE A LA TERRE, ET COMPATIBLE AVEC LA TENSION, L’INTENSITE ET LA

FREQUENCE REQUISES INDIQUEES SUR LA FACE ARRIERE DE L’APPAREIL

- S’ASSURER DE NE PAS MARCHER, PLIER OU TIRER SUR LE CABLE D’ALIMENTATION

- DEBRANCHER L’APPAREIL LORS D’UNE TEMPETE OU LORS D’UNE TRES LONGUE PERIODE DE NON UTILISATION

- UTILISER UNIQUEMENT DES ACCESSOIRES SPECIFIES PAR LE FABRICANT POUR UNE UTILISATION EN TOUTE SECURITE ET POUR EVITER DES BLESSURES

- ATTENTION: AFIN DE PREVENIR TOUT RISQUE DE CHOCS ELECTRIQUES OU DE DEBUT D’INCENDIE, NE PAS EXPOSER CET APPAREIL A LA PLUIE ET A L’HUMIDITE

- TOUT ENTRETIEN DOIT ETRE FAIT PAR UN TECHNICIEN QUALIFIE

- NOS AMPLIFICATEURS PEUVENT PRODUIRE DE TRES HAUTES PRESSIONS ACOUSTIQUES QUI PEUVENT CAUSER DES DOMMAGES AUDITIFS PERMANENTS OU

DEFINITIFS. L’UTILISER AVEC UNE GRANDE PRECAUTION EST CONSEILLE ET DES PROTECTIONS AUDITIVES SONT RECOMMANDEES POUR UNE UTILISATION A FORT
VOLUME.

- ATTENTION: CET APPAREIL REQUIERT UNE PRISE MURALE AVEC MISE A LA TERRE, AUX NORMES ACTUELLES ET COMPATIBLE AVEC LES SPECIFICATIONS

ELECTRIQUES SE TROUVANT EN FACE ARRIERE DE L’APPAREIL. LA PRISE ELECTRIQUE DOIT RESTER ACCESSIBLE POUR DEBRANCHER L’APPAREIL EN CAS DE DEFAUT
PENDANT L’UTILISATION

- CET APPAREIL DOIT ETRE DEBRANCHE SI IL N’EST PAS UTILISE

Elimination correcte du produit : Ce symbole indique que ce produit ne doit pas être éliminé avec les ordures ménagères, comme le prévoiT la directive WEEE (2002/96/
EC) et votre loi nationale.

Ce produit doit être remis à un site de recyclage des déchets électriques et des équipements électroniques (EEE).

Un mauvais recyclage de ce type de déchet peut avoir de possibles impacts négatifs sur l’environnement et la santé humaine dus aux émanations de substances.

Dans un même temps, votre coopération à un recyclage correct de ce produit contribuera à la bonne utilisation des ressources naturelles.

Pour connaître l’endroit où il est possible de recycler ces équipements, merci de contacter votre mairie, les services de recyclages ou le service des déchets ménagers.

ATTENTION — Le présent appareil numérique n’émet pas de
bruits radioélectriques dépassant las limites applicables aux appa­reils numériques de class A/de class B (selon le cas) prescrites
dans le réglement sur le brouillage radioélectrique édicté par les
ministere des communications du Canada.

Exposure to extremely high noise levels may cause permanent
hearing loss. Individuals vary considerably in susceptibility to noise­induced hearing loss, but nearly everyone will lose some hearing
if exposed to sufficiently intense noise for a period of time. The
U.S. Government’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) has specified the permissible noise level exposures shown
in the following chart.

According to OSHA, any exposure in excess of these per­missible limits could result in some hearing loss. To ensure against
potentially dangerous exposure to high sound pressure levels, it is
recommended that all persons exposed to equipment capable of
producing high sound pressure levels use hearing protectors while
the equipment is in operation. Ear plugs or protectors in the ear
canals or over the ears must be worn when operating the equip­ment in order to prevent permanent hearing loss if exposure is in
excess of the limits set forth here:

Duration, per
day in hours

8 90 Duo in small club
6 92
4 95 Subway Train
3 97
2 100 Very loud classical music

1.5 102
1 105 The boss screaming at his minions about

0.5 110

0.25 or less 115 Loudest parts at a rock concert

Sound
Level dBA, Slow
Response

Typical Example

manual deadlines

Correct disposal of this product: This symbol indicates that this product should not be disposed of with your household waste,
according to the WEEE directive (2002/96/EC) and your national law. This product should be handed over to an authorized col­lection site for recycling waste electrical and electronic equipment (EEE). Improper handling of this type of waste could have a
possible negative impact on the environment and human health due to potentially hazardous substances that are generally asso­ciated with EEE. At the same time, your cooperation in the correct disposal of this product will contribute to the effective usage
of natural resources. For more information about where you can drop off your waste equipment for recycling, please contact your
local city office, waste authority, or your household waste disposal service.

3

SVT-3 PRO Bass Guitar Amplifier

Introduction

Congratulations!

This compact, yet dynamically powerful bass amplifier, delivers a searing 450 watts of
unsurpassed quality, offering the classic vibrance of tubes, as well as contemporary features.

The SVT-3 PRO amplifier is an ideal companion to the Classic Series, Pro Series, or PF
cabinets, available separately.

Like all Ampeg products, your SVT-3 PRO amplifier is designed by musicians and built using
only the best of components. Each amplifier is tested to confirm that it meets our
specifications, and we believe that this amplifier is the absolute best that it can be. In order to
get the most out of your new amplifier, please read this manual before you begin playing.

Best of luck in all of your musical endeavors!

Sincerely,

The dedicated team at Ampeg

You are now the proud owner of an Ampeg SVT-3 PRO bass guitar amplifier.

Features

Here are some of the features packed into your new amplifier:

• 5–POSITION MIDRANGE SELECTOR: Take your pick from the five center frequency
points available to get just the right midrange voice [page 5].

• TUBE GAIN: Control the dynamics of tonal response characteristics from the power amp;
from punch to compressed [page 6].

• 9–BAND GRAPHIC EQ: Use as a “second channel” for bass solos, or to shape the
sound to your own exacting standards. An independent level control allows you to adjust
the Graphic EQ volume [page 6-7].

• TRANSFORMER BALANCED LINE OUTPUTS: Independent level control. One balanced
XLR and one balanced/unbalanced 1/4" jack to patch into house consoles, mixing boards,
or external power amplifiers [page 8].

• EFFECTS LOOP: Connect effects here for increased intensity and quieter operation
[page 9].

• POWER AMP IN AND PREAMP OUT: A separate preamp may be connected to the
Power Amp In jack and the Preamp Out jack may be connected to a slave amp [page 9].

4

The Front Panel

1 4 16 19 205 8 9 11 12 181713102 3 6 7 14 15

BRT

-15dB

HI

LO

PEAK /
MUTE

MASTER TUBE GAINTREBLEFREQUENCYMIDRANGEBASSGAININPUT

1. INPUT: The signal output from an
instrument (active or passive) may be
connected to this 1/4" input by means
of a shielded instrument cable.

2. BRIGHT: When this switch is engaged, a

more lively top end response [+6 dB at
2 kHz] is added to the input signal.

3. –15 dB: Press this switch in to reduce
the input signal by 15 dB and
compensate for higher output sources.
This attenuation is suited for use with
basses that have active electronics or
high-output pickups. Use this pad if you
notice that the peak/mute LED comes
on regularly. It will reduce the chance of
overdriving the preamplifier stage and
allow more usable range and fine
adjustment of the gain control.

4. PEAK/MUTE LED: This red warning
LED will come on if: the mute switch
is engaged, or if the input signal is too
high, the gain control is set too high, or
there is too much boost from the bass,
midrange and treble controls. If it comes
on regularly, even when these controls
are low, try engaging the –15 dB pad.

5. GAIN: This varies the amount of signal
driving the preamplifier. If a small
clockwise rotation from minimum leads
to overloading and the peak LED
illuminating, try engaging the –15 dB
pad. This will give more usable range
with the gain control.

+12dB

MUTE

0

-12dB

EQ

ON

zHk9zH33 5kHz2kHz900Hz600Hz300Hz150Hz80Hz

+8dB

POWER

LEVEL

-10dB

ON

6. ULTRA HI: This switch, when engaged,
enhances the amount of high frequency
output by 6 dB at 5 kHz.

7. ULTRA LO: This switch, when engaged,
enhances the amount of low-end output
by 2 dB at 40 Hz and –10 dB cut at
500 Hz.

8. BASS: Use this to adjust the low
frequency level of the amplifier.
This provides up to 12 dB of boost,
or 12 dB of cut at 50 Hz. The low
frequency output is flat at the center
position.

9. MIDRANGE: Use this to adjust the
midrange frequency level of the
amplifier. This provides up to 15 dB of
boost, or 15 dB of cut at the center
frequency selected by the frequency
control. The midrange frequency output
is flat at the center position. Rotate the
control counter clockwise for a
“contoured” sound (more distant, less
midrange output) or clockwise for a
sound which really cuts through.

10. FREQUENCY: This control allows you to
select the center frequency for the
midrange control, giving you a choice of
five “voices” for the midrange. The
numbers correspond to the following
center frequencies: 1=220 Hz,
2=450 Hz, 3=800 Hz, 4=1.6 kHz,
5=3 kHz.

5

The Front Panel continued

1 4 16 19 205 8 9 11 12 181713102 3 6 7 14 15

SVT-3 PRO Bass Guitar Amplifier

BRT

-15dB

HI

LO

PEAK /
MUTE

11. TREBLE: Use this to adjust the high
frequency level of the amplifier. This
provides up to 14 dB of boost, or 19
dB of cut at 5 kHz. The high frequency
output is flat at the center position.

12. MASTER: Use this to control the
overall output level. Use it wisely and
turn it down when making connections
or trying something new.

13. TUBE GAIN: The tube gain control
varies the high voltage supply to the
preamp tubes. This allows a variety of
tonal response characteristics from
the power amp and replaces the limiter
found on typical solid state power amps.
At “10” the voltage is at maximum,
providing a dynamic, highly responsive
tone. At “0” the voltage is at minimum,
offering a thickened, more compressed
tone. This tone may also be distorted,
depending on volume level. In between
settings are best for preventing harsh
distortion when driving the power amp
to its limits. The effect of this control
increases from moderate to dramatic
as the power amp is driven harder.

MASTER TUBE GAINTREBLEFREQUENCYMIDRANGEBASSGAININPUT

+12dB

MUTE

0

-12dB

EQ

ON

zHk9zH33 5kHz2kHz900Hz600Hz300Hz150Hz80Hz

NOTE: When adjusting the tube gain control

from “10” to “0” rapidly, a low frequency
hum and muting of the output signal
occur simultaneously. This is due to
shifting of the DC bias point of the tubes
and is no cause for concern. Adjusting
the control quickly from “0” to “10”
brings a moderate delay due to the
power supply capacitors charging.

14. MUTE: Press this switch in to mute
all outputs except the tuner out. The
footswitch may also control muting if
the mute switch on the front panel is
left in the “out” position. (The front panel
switch is still active with the footswitch
connected. This is excellent for tuning
your bass with an electric tuner without
having to adjust any levels to turn down
the sound). The peak/mute LED will
illuminate when this switch is engaged.

15. GRAPHIC EQ: When this switch is
engaged, the 9-band graphic EQ is
enabled. A footswitch overrides this
switch.

+8dB

POWER

LEVEL

-10dB

ON

6

The Front Panel continued

1 4 16 19 205 8 9 11 12 181713102 3 6 7 14 15

BRT

-15dB

HI

LO

PEAK /
MUTE

MASTER TUBE GAINTREBLEFREQUENCYMIDRANGEBASSGAININPUT

16. ACTIVE LED: This LED illuminates when
the EQ is on.

17. 9–BAND GRAPHIC EQ: These sliders
control the output frequencies indicated
above each control. The center position
of each control is flat [no boost or cut].

18. LEVEL: This slider is the output vol­ume control for the Graphic EQ and
only affects the signal when the EQ is
engaged. If the EQ’d signal is too soft,
slide the level control up; if it’s too loud,
slide this control down.

19. ON LED: This LED illuminates when the
power is on.

20. POWER SWITCH: Use this switch to
turn the overall system power on or
off. Press the top of the switch to turn
on the power. Press the bottom of this
switch to turn the amp off. To remove
AC power, either turn off the AC mains
supply, or unplug the power cord from
the amplifier and the AC mains supply.

NOTE: There is a delay during power up
until the protection relay enables the
power amplifier output.

+12dB

MUTE

0

-12dB

EQ

ON

zHk9zH33 5kHz2kHz900Hz600Hz300Hz150Hz80Hz

+8dB

POWER

LEVEL

-10dB

ON

7

28

29 30 31 32 33 34 35

3222 2726252421

The Rear Panel

SVT-3 PRO Bass Guitar Amplifier

MODEL:

SVT-3PRO

SERIAL:
LINE: V ~ Hz

120 XX

WATTS: MAX

1000

SPEAKER OUTPUTS

275 WATTS @ 8 OHMS
450 WATTS @ 4 OHMS

110/115V: 250V T10A SLO BLO
230V: 250V T5A SLO BLO

CAUTION:

TO
REDUCE THE RISK
OF FIRE, REPLACE
FUSE WITH SAME
TYPE AND RATING.

ATTENTION:

UTILISER UN FUS­IBLE DE RECHANGE
DE MEME TYPE.

AC LINE IN

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC

SHOCK - DO NOT OPEN

4 OHM MIN. LOAD

AVIS:

RISQUE DE CHOC
ELECTRIQUE
NE PAS OUVRIR

TO REDUCE THE RISK
OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC
SHOCK, DO NOT EX­POSE THIS EQUIPMENT
TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

21. SPEAKON® JACK: Use of this heavy-

duty connector is recommended when
playing at full output levels due to
its incredibly high current handling
capability. Connect the amplifier to
the speaker cabinet(s) using heavy
gauge speaker cables terminated
with the appropriate connectors.
The pin connections for this jack are:

1+ = positive

1– = negative

22. RACK SUPPORT FASTENER: For
the most secure rack installation, it is
recommended that a supplemental sup­port be fabricated and fastened to the
amplifier via this threaded insert. Use a
1/4–20 threaded bolt that will not pro­trude more than 1/2" into the amplifier
to connect the strap.

23. LINE OUTPUT LEVEL / GROUND
LIFT: This control adjusts the output

level at both line output jacks. This
control works independently from the
front panel master control. If necessary,
pull this knob to engage the ground lift
and eliminate hum.

TRANSFORMER BAL. LINE OUTPUT

PULL

GROUND

LIFT

PRE

POST

BALANCED/

UNBALANCED

BALANCED

EFFECTS LOOP

RETURN SENDPOWER AMPINPREAMP

OUT

TUO RENUTLEVEL

FOOTSWITCH

24. POST-EQ / PRE-EQ: The signal at
the line out jacks can be set to either
Pre-EQ or Post-EQ with this switch.
With the switch in the OUT position,
the signal at the jacks is Pre-EQ. This
is a direct output not affected by any
EQ or boost settings. With the switch
in the IN position, the signal is
Post-EQ and is controlled and
modified by the tone controls,
Graphic EQ and the effects loop.

25, 26. TRANSFORMER BALANCED

LINE OUTPUTS: These jacks supply

a balanced/unbalanced preamp output
signal for connecting to a house mixing
board, recording console or external
amplifiers with balanced inputs. The
signal can either be set to Pre- or Post­EQ with the selector switch and its level
is controlled by the line out level control.

27. TUNER OUT: This jack supplies the
only live output when the mute switch
is engaged. This allows for silent tuning
through an electronic tuner or killing the
house send with a monitor mixer send
still active.

28. FUSE: The fuse protects the unit from
damage due to overload conditions or
AC power line surges. If the fuse blows,
replace it only with the same size and
type.

(Speakon® is a registered trademark of Neutrik AG.)

8

The Rear Panel continued

28

29 30 31 32 33 34 35

3222 2726252421

MODEL:

SVT-3PRO

SERIAL:
LINE: V ~ Hz

120 XX

WATTS: MAX

1000

SPEAKER OUTPUTS

275 WATTS @ 8 OHMS
450 WATTS @ 4 OHMS

110/115V: 250V T10A SLO BLO
230V: 250V T5A SLO BLO

CAUTION:

TO
REDUCE THE RISK
OF FIRE, REPLACE
FUSE WITH SAME
TYPE AND RATING.

ATTENTION:

UTILISER UN FUS­IBLE DE RECHANGE
DE MEME TYPE.

AC LINE IN

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC

SHOCK - DO NOT OPEN

4 OHM MIN. LOAD

AVIS:

RISQUE DE CHOC
ELECTRIQUE
NE PAS OUVRIR

TO REDUCE THE RISK
OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC
SHOCK, DO NOT EX­POSE THIS EQUIPMENT
TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

29. IEC POWER INPUT CONNECTOR: This
is where you connect the supplied AC
power cord.

DO NOT DEFEAT THE GROUND PRONG

OF THE AC PLUG!

30. SPEAKER OUTPUTS: These mono 1/4"
TS output jacks supply speaker-level
power to the speaker cabinet. The rated
power output is 275 watts rms into 8
ohms or 450 watts rms into 4 ohms.

The two identical outputs are wired in

parallel, and you can use either one, or
use both. Make sure the total speaker
impedance load is 4 ohms or greater.

For example, you could connect:

Two 16 ohm speakers (an 8 ohm load),

Two 8 ohm speakers (a 4 ohm load)

or one 4 ohm speaker.

Use speaker cables with 1/4" TS ends

to make the connections. Do not use
instrument cables as they may overheat.

We recommend using the Speakon

jack [22] whenever playing at full
output levels.

31. POWER AMP IN: This jack connects
directly to the internal power amp for
use with an external preamp. When
using an external source, connect the
OUTPUT of the source to this jack using
a shielded instrument cable to feed the
signal into the power amp section. The
internal signal is disconnected when a
plug is inserted into this jack.

TRANSFORMER BAL. LINE OUTPUT

PULL

GROUND

LIFT

PRE

POST

BALANCED/

UNBALANCED

BALANCED

EFFECTS LOOP

RETURN SENDPOWER AMPINPREAMP

OUT

TUO RENUTLEVEL

FOOTSWITCH

32. PREAMP OUT: This jack is a direct
post master preamp output for use with
an external power amp. Connect the
external amp’s input to this jack using a
shielded instrument cable.

33. EFFECTS LOOP RETURN: When using
an external signal processor, connect
the OUTPUT of the effect to this jack
using a shielded instrument cable to
feed the processed signal into the unit.

34. EFFECTS LOOP SEND: When using
an external signal processor, connect
the INPUT of the effect to this jack
using a shielded instrument cable to
send the post-EQ signal to the effect
for processing.

35. FOOTSWITCH: Connect a dual
footswitch to this jack for remote Mute
and EQ On/Off control. On the stereo
1/4" plug, the tip controls Mute and
the ring controls EQ On/Off. The EQ
footswitch overrides the front panel
switch and the Mute function is
available from either location.

NOTE: A footswitch may be purchased

through your favorite Ampeg Dealer. Be sure
to ask for model #AFP2.

OTHER: Make sure that the ventilation
openings are not obscured in any way. This
will allow the flow of cooling air to the power
amplifier’s heatsinks.

9

SVT-3 PRO Bass Guitar Amplifier

ROCK:

Suggested Settings

A note about the Graphic EQ:

The Graphic EQ may be used in two ways:

1) To fine tune the sound, make small adjustments at the desired frequencies and leave the
EQ on throughout the entire session. (This is great for adapting to varying room acoustics
when playing multiple venues) and...

2) For a completely different sound, make larger adjustments and only activate the EQ when a
“second channel” sound is required (such as during bass solos).

JAZZ:

COUNTRY:

BRT

HI

OUT OUT

TO

-15dB

BRT

OUT

-15dB

BRT

PEAK /

MUTE

PEAK /

MUTE

TASTE

OUT

LO

HI

IN

IN

LO

HI

OUTOUT

IN

-15dB

PEAK /

MUTE

LO

MASTER TUBE GAINTREBLEFREQUENCYMIDRANGEBASSGAIN

MASTER TUBE GAINTREBLEFREQUENCYMIDRANGEBASSGAIN

TO

TASTE

Set at "10" for the cleanest sound.

Set at "5" for moderate softness.

Set at "0" for a very soft feel.

MASTER TUBE GAINTREBLEFREQUENCYMIDRANGEBASSGAIN

FUNK “POPPING:”

BRT

-15dB

PEAK /

MUTE

10

HI

MASTER TUBE GAINTREBLEFREQUENCYMIDRANGEBASSGAIN

OUTIN

IN

LO

Personal Settings

BRT

-15dB

BRT

-15dB

BRT

-15dB

PEAK /
MUTE

PEAK /
MUTE

PEAK /
MUTE

HI

MASTER TUBE GAINTREBLEFREQUENCYMIDRANGEBASSGAIN

LO

MASTER TUBE GAINTREBLEFREQUENCYMIDRANGEBASSGAIN

HI

LO

MASTER TUBE GAINTREBLEFREQUENCYMIDRANGEBASSGAIN

HI

LO

BRT

-15dB

BRT

-15dB

PEAK /
MUTE

PEAK /
MUTE

HI

MASTER TUBE GAINTREBLEFREQUENCYMIDRANGEBASSGAIN

LO

MASTER TUBE GAINTREBLEFREQUENCYMIDRANGEBASSGAIN

HI

LO

11

SVT-3 PRO Bass Guitar Amplifier

Rack Mounting

When mounting the SVT-3 PRO into a rack, the four bottom feet should be removed
to maintain the two rack space height of the amplifier. Be sure to keep the feet and their
attachment bolts for future use. If the feet are reinstalled, never use screws which will
protrude farther into the amplifier than the original hardware.

The rack must be a high quality enclosure capable of securely supporting the weight
of the amplifier. Tighten the mounting screws securely through the amplifier’s face plate,
into the rack rails. Check the rack and mounting screws occasionally to ensure a continually
safe and secure installation.

A 1/4–20 threaded insert is provided on the rear of the amplifier for connection to an
additional support bracket. It is highly recommended that this additional support be used
when rack mounting the amplifier. It must not protrude more than 1/2" into the amplifier.

Thermal Considerations

The amplifier is fan cooled with a single fan. Air is drawn through the side panel vent
to cool down the amplifier heatsinks, and then expelled through the rear panel vents.
When installing, be sure to allow sufficient air space around the front, sides and rear of the
amplifier for adequate cooling for the heatsinks. Leave at least one rack space above and
below, and at least six inches behind and in front of the chassis to allow proper ventilation.
The rear of the rack should be unobstructed and placed no closer than 10" from walls or
other large obstructions. When the amplifier is first turned on, the fan runs at a low speed.
As the power output increases and the amp warms up, the fan gradually increases in speed
to provide additional cooling. If the amplifier should overheat, a thermal switch turns off the
power amplifier, allowing the heatsink to cool down. Once the amplifier has cooled to a safe
operating temperature, the thermal switch resets and reactivates the amplifier. If this should
occur, identify the cause of the problem and take corrective action. For example:

• Provide better ventilation

• Install a fan in the rack to move more air

• Make sure the amplifier is not overloaded with too low of a load impedance or by a
short circuit on the speaker line

12

Block Diagram

INPUT

FREQUENCY

OUT

SPEAKER

MOSFETS

SEBUTREFFUB

OUT

TUNER

OUT

SPEAKER

GAIN

TUBE

BAL./UNBAL.

LINE OUT

1+

IN

POWER AMP

SPEAKON

JACK

2+

1- 2-

OUT

PREAMP

MASTER

EFFECTS

VOLUME

RETURN

FOOTSWITCH

SEND

EFFECTS

BUFFER

EQ

IN

EQ

9 BAND

GRAPHIC

LEVEL

PRE

LEVEL

LINE OUT

POST

LINE OUT

BALANCED

-15dB PAD

PULL

GROUND LIFT

LOW

ULTRA

HIGH

ULTRA

BRIGHT

LED

PEAK

TUBES

GAIN

MUTE

FOOTSWITCH

TREBLE

MIDRANGE

BASS

13

SVT-3 PRO Bass Guitar Amplifier

SVT-3 PRO TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Output Power Rating 450 watts rms @ 4 ohms, 3% THD
275 watts rms @ 8 ohms, 3% THD

Signal to Noise Ratio 80 dB (20 Hz–30 kHz), ref: 1% THD+N into a
4 ohm load with –20 dB stimulus (“normal”)

Maximum Gain 63 dB @ 1 kHz, tone controls centered

Tube Complement 12AX7 (4), 12AU7 (1)

Tone Controls Bass: +12 / –12 dB @ 50 Hz
Midrange: +15 / –15 dB @ 220 Hz, 450 Hz,
800 Hz, 1.6 kHz or 3 kHz
Treble: +14 / –19 dB @ 5 kHz

Graphic EQ Level +10 / –10 dB

Graphic EQ Range 33 Hz: +15 / –15 dB
80 Hz: +8 / –8 dB
150 Hz: +8 / –8 dB
300 Hz: +8 / –8 dB
600 Hz: +8 / –8 dB
900 Hz: +8 / –8 dB
2 kHz: +8 / –8 dB
5 kHz: +9 / –9 dB
8 kHz: +10 / –10 dB

Bright Switch +6 dB @ 2 kHz
Ultra Hi Switch +6 dB @ 5 kHz
Ultra Lo Switch +2.5 dB @ 50 Hz
–12 dB @ 560 Hz
+1.5 dB @ 5 kHz

Footswitch Jack Graphic EQ On/Off, Mute On/Off
[Tip = Mute, Ring = EQ]

Power Requirements ~100–120 VAC, 50–60 Hz, 390 W [Domestic]
~200–240 VAC, 50–60 Hz, 390 W [Export]

Size (H x W x D) 4.0 in / 102 mm (with feet) x 19.0 in / 483 mm
(with ears) / 17.4 in / 442 mm (without ears)
x 15.5 in / 394 mm

Weight 26.0 lb / 11.8 kg (approximately)

14

Troubleshooting

In the unlikely event that your SVT-3 PRO should malfunction, take a few minutes to
troubleshoot it before you call for service. You can save yourself time and money by doing
it yourself, and often the cure for the problem is something quite simple.

LEDs LIGHT

Check amp controls, check

for signal from instrument

NO SOUND

Listen for hum

NO HUM

Check speaker

SPEAKER OK

SOUND OK

SOUND OK

NO SOUND

LEDs DON’T LIGHT

Check AC outlet

OUTLET OK NO POWER

Check power cord,
fuse, power switch

HUM

Unplug instrument,

touch tip of cable

NO CHANGE LOUD HUM

Replace cable Check bass pickup

NO CHANGE

SEE BELOW

SOUND OK

Check house fusebox

or circuit breaker

OK

NO SOUND

Check instrument, cables

POOR SOUND

Check speaker(s)

SPEAKER(S) OK,

POOR SOUND

Replace speaker(s)

POOR SOUND

SEE BELOW

SOUND OK

SPEAKER(S)

DEFECTIVE

SOUND OK

If the problem isn’t covered above, or if the steps lead you here, then contact your Ampeg
dealer for service information. Also, you should refer the amp for servicing if it gets dropped,
has liquid spilled into it, or sustains damage to its power cord.

Service Information

I

f you are having a problem with your SVT-3 PRO, you can go to our website (www.ampeg.com)
and click on Support for service information, or call Technical Support at 1-818-575-3600
Monday-Friday during
outside of the U.S., contact your local distributor for technical support and service.

normal business hours, Pacific Time

, to receive assistance. If you are

The SVT-3 PRO is covered with sheet metal and aluminum, not unlike robots, spaceships and other
cool things. Clean with a dry lint-free cloth. Never spray cleaning agents on the SVT-3 PRO. Avoid
abrasive cleansers which would damage the finish.

Ampeg continually develops new products and improves upon existing ones. For this reason, the specifications
and information in this manual are subject to change without notice.

“Ampeg” is a registered trademark of Yamaha Guitar Group Inc. All other brand names mentioned are trade­marks or registered trademarks of their respective holders and are hereby acknowledged.

www.ampeg.com

©2018 Yamaha Guitar Group Inc.

26580 Agoura Road • Calabasas, CA 91302-1921

Part No. 2038639 Rev. C 07/18

15

SVT-3 PRO

Bass Guitar Amplifier

110/115V: 250V T10A SLO BLO
230V: 250V T5A SLO BLO

CAUTION:

TO
REDUCE THE RISK
OF FIRE, REPLACE
FUSE WITH SAME
TYPE AND RATING.

ATTENTION:

UTILISER UN FUS­IBLE DE RECHANGE
DE MEME TYPE.

MODEL:

SVT-3PRO

SERIAL:
LINE: V ~ Hz

120 XX

WATTS: MAX

1000

AC LINE IN

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC

SHOCK - DO NOT OPEN

SPEAKER OUTPUTS

275 WATTS @ 8 OHMS
450 WATTS @ 4 OHMS

4 OHM MIN. LOAD

AVIS:

RISQUE DE CHOC
ELECTRIQUE
NE PAS OUVRIR

TO REDUCE THE RISK
OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC
SHOCK, DO NOT EX­POSE THIS EQUIPMENT
TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

TRANSFORMER BAL. LINE OUTPUT

PULL

GROUND

LIFT

PRE

POST

BALANCED

EFFECTS LOOP

RETURN SENDPOWER AMPINPREAMP

OUT

Owner’s Manual

BALANCED/

UNBALANCED

TUO RENUTLEVEL

FOOTSWITCH