*All Features and specifications are subject to change without notice
**This list is subject to change without notice.
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Gallien-Krueger
2240 Paragon Dr.
San Jose, CA, 95131
phone: 408-441-7970
fax: 408-441-8085
www.gallien-krueger.com
2
Congratulations
2001RB & 2001RBP
Your purchase of a new Gallien-Krueger 2001RB
amplifier or 2001RBP preamplifier is surely the result
of much careful consideration on your part. For our
part, we at Gallien-Krueger are pleased that you chose
us, and are determined that you will be a satisfied
customer. In choosing a 2001RB unit, you now own
an amplifier with many unique features, which will
allow you to create your own distinct sound.
To get the most out of your new purchase please take a
few minutes to read through this manual. If you are in a
hurry, we suggest you at least read through the Quick
Start and Safety Information sections before setting
up your new rig. This will help get you started and
give you a few quick tips, but is not a substitute for
reading the rest of the manual.
Your amplifier should have come with the following
items, please check the contents of the box to ensure that
you have everything.
Included with your 2001RB Head:
2001RB1
Power Cord1
4 Conductor Speakon Cable2
RFB-III Footswitch1
5-Pin DIN Cable1
1 ft. 1/4” Stereo Cord1
If your 2001RB or RBP unit did not come with all
the items listed, or if you encounter problems while
setting up your new equipment, please contact your
local dealer, or us as soon as possible at:
Gallien-Krueger, Inc.
2240 Paragon Drive
San Jose, CA 95131
phone: (408) 441-7970
fax:(408) 441-8085
Internet: www.gallien-krueger.com
Email: sales@gallien.com
We wish you a lifetime of good playing and remember to always have fun!
Introduction
3
GK Philosophy
I have never seen the point in doing things the way
others have done them. I also have not been very
interested in following the latest fad. I am a
Stanford educated engineer who worked his way
through school as a musician. Like all musicians, I
have lugged amplifiers up stairways and into car
trunks, always wondering why these things had to
be so heavy, bulky, and hard to handle.
As I am the principal innovator at GK, our products
Introduction
reflect my attitudes and life experiences. I don’t model
my designs after other manufacturer’s products (as
some of our competitors are proud of reciting).
Instead, I believe new and old problems are best solved
with new solutions. Having taken our own path,
products enjoy a unique, unmatched sound, allowing
the artist using them every opportunity to make an
original statement.
Having supported my products for over thirty years, I
have learned from the story they tell.
is a reflection of that story, and has a commitment to
support that legacy. Just as the products I created
thirty years ago are still telling their story, the products
we create today will be talking to us tomorrow.
2001RB & 2001RBP
GK
Gallien-Krueger
Robert Gallien
4
Safety Information
2001RB & 2001RBP
Verify Line Voltage and Amperage Before
Use:
Your new 2001RB or RBP amp has been factory
configured for use with:
.
.
.
.
Connecting the amplifier to a line with specifications
other than indicated above can create a safety and
fire hazard, and may damage the amplifier. If you
have any questions about the voltage requirements
for your specific model, or about the line voltage in
your area, contact your dealer before plugging the
unit into a wall outlet.
Verify AC Circuit Capacity Before Use:
The high power output of your amplifier may require
heavy current draw under Full-Load conditions. To
insure proper performance and avoid potential safety
hazards, we recommend connection to line circuits
with amperage specified “as above”. Connecting
multiple amplifiers to the same circuit, or connecting
the amplifier to the same circuit used by other heavypower devices, such as high-wattage lights, may cause
circuit breakers to trip. It is always a good idea to
avoid using any audio equipment on the same AC
circuit as equipment with motors, such as air conditioners or refrigerators. This will lessen to possibility
of power variation and electrical start-up noise
affecting your sound.
120 Volt/60Hz 15 Amp circuit for USA &
Canada.
230 Volt/50Hz 10 Amp circuit for Europe
& Australia.
100 Volt/50Hz 15 Amp circuit for Japan.
Proper AC circuit for all other countries.
Do Not Use Extension Cords:
To avoid safety hazards, use only the power cord
supplied with your unit. If a replacement cord is
used, make certain that it is of consistent quality and
gauge as the original. We do not recommend using
extension cords with this product. As with all electrical devices, do not run power cords under rugs or
carpets or place heavy objects on them. Damaged
power cords should be replaced immediately with
cords meeting factory specifications.
Handle The AC Power Cord Gently:
When disconnecting the power cord from an AC
outlet, always pull the plug, never pull the cord. If
you do not intend to use the amplifier for a considerable length of time, disconnect the plug from the AC
outlet.
Do Not Open The Amplifier Enclosure:
There are no user-serviceable components inside this
product. Opening the amplifier enclosure may
present a shock hazard, and modification to the
product will void your warranty. If liquid enters the
unit, or any metal object such as a paper clip, wire, or
staple accidentally falls inside the enclosure, disconnect the unit from the AC power source immediately
and consult an authorized service station.
Unpacking:
The carton and packing materials used in shipping
your new amplifier were specially designed to cushion
it from the shocks and vibration that occur during
transport. We suggest that you save the carton and
packing materials for use in shipping, in the event
you move, or the amplifier needs repair.
Safety Information
5
2001RB & 2001RBP
Quick Start
The 2001RB is designed to be simple to operate.
All controls have a well defined purpose and are well
behaved. These directions will take you through the
basics and give you a good start for setting up your
sound.
1. Plug it in:
Set the power switch to Off and connect the supplied
power cord, from the amplifier AC receptacle, to an AC
power outlet of proper voltage and power rating (see
Quick Start
safety information on page 5 for details).
2. Connect your cabinets:
Connect your speaker cabinet(s) to the LEFT or
RIGHT 1/4” speaker jacks or Speakon outputs if
using our RBH series cabinets. Be sure not to exceed
the maximum recommended speaker loads below.
Maximum Recommended Speaker Loads:
Two 4 ohm or four 8 ohm cabinets per side in dual
mono mode. One or two 8 ohm horns per side on the
50W amp. To connect other manufacturer’s cabinets,
use the LEFT or RIGHT 1/4” jack speaker outputs
only.
If you are using an RBH Series cabinet, use the
supplied 4 conductor Speakon cable to connect to the
“Speakon” outputs on the rear panel of the amplifier.
In addition, set the switch on the RBH cabinet to BiAmp.
For more information on Bridged mode and Bi-Amped
mode, see pages 10-11.
Caution:
Do not connect the Speakon cables labeled “Bridge
Mode” to the 2001RB. This may result in damage to
the amplifier.
3. Initial front panel control settings:
Set all EQ controls and the Boost control to 12
o’clock. The Voicing Filters should be turned all the
way down to get a flat response. Set the Level and
Master Volumes at 0. If you have a five string bass,
push the button marked String Bass in. Make sure the
Level A/B button is out, so you are in the clean
channel.
4. Plug in your bass:
Using an instrument cable, connect your bass to the
Input jack and press the power switch on. If you have
active tone controls on your bass, turn all of the
controls to the middle or flat position and turn the
volume all the way up. If you have conventional,
passive tone controls, turn all tone and volume
controls all the way up.
5. Level and Master Volume settings:
Set the Master Volume to 12 o’clock. Turn the Level-A
volume up as you play. Try not to turn it past 1
o’clock if you have a bass with active tone controls
unless you want an overdrive effect. If the yellow clip
light turns on, press the -10db button in. If it is still
on, try turning the volume down on your bass.
At this point:
You should be hearing your bass quite well. You can
use the Volume and Woofer-Master to achieve a
comfortable sound level.
more volume, turn up the Woofer-Master control first.
Remember:
If you need
6
2001RB & 2001RBP
Settings and Sounds: 2001RB & 2001RBP
The 2001RB/RBP is versatile in its sound and tone. Below
are a few suggested amp settings that can be used as
starting points to define your own sound.
Note: the Gain/Overdrive settings will vary according to
the output of your bass.
* Contour note:
At higher playing levels the contour should be set lower for mid-range clarity.
To get 800RB voicing, the contour should be set to 0 or 10 only.
* Volume note:
Adjust volume before playing these recommended settings.
Tube Style Grunge:Both pickups recommended
Settings & Sounds
Insane Gain:Back pickup recommended
7
Deep Bass:Front pickup recommended
Settings & Sounds
2001RB & 2001RBP
Slap:Both pickups recommended
8
2001RB & 2001RBP
Sound Tips
The 2001RB has several unique features which, if
used properly, will obtain that sound that’s in the
back of your head.
Sound Tips
The Equalizer:
The Equalizer is used to fine tune your sound. When
adjusting it, do it just a little at a time. These are active
circuits, and small changes can make a big difference in
your sound. With a little experimentation you will find
that this equalizer is very easy to use, never sounds weird
and provides you with a large variety of great sounds,
unique to GK.
Contour:
Increasing the Contour level will scoop out midrange frequencies while boosting the highs and lows.
The sound, once again, is unique to GK and unavailable on any other Bass amp. Lower contour settings
are recommended for midrange clarity at higher
playing levels. For 800RB voicing, set the contour
control either on 0 or 10 (Off, On on 800RB).
String Bass:
The way a Bass amp deals with the instrument low string
is a critical part of its sound. In fact, a five string
instrument requires an entirely different low end response than a four string instrument. No equalizer can
make the necessary adjustments to accommodate both.
However, the String Bass button on the 2001RB does
just that. When it is out, the 2001RB is voiced like the
800RB . Push it in and the 2001RB is voiced for five
string instruments. For some playing styles you may
want it in, even with a four string instrument.
Boost/Master:
Turning up the Boost control, will add a little growl to
your tone. This is an unmistakable GK trade mark
sound, that you will grow to appreciate. Raising the
Boost while lowering the Master will add more growl
while keeping the sound level the same. Growl is
actually a small amount of even order harmonic distortion, that sounds great through a woofer, but horrible
through a horn (see Bi-Amp solution below). For
most playing situations, the Master is set between 12 &
3 o’clock. The cleanest sound is obtained by setting
the Master above 12 o’clock, and going above 3
o’clock for maximum power situations.
Direct Out:
The 2001RB provides a low noise, high quality
balanced direct out for connection to PA and recording consoles. With the Pre/Post EQ switch set to “Pre”
(Out), the direct output signal is fed directly from our
low noise, high headroom, FET input stage providing
a low noise output superior to external direct boxes
and impedance transformers. In addition, this output
is calibrated for 1.0V (0 dBV) output and can be
adjusted to unity gain (instrument level) by adjusting
the Level control to -15 dB (U) . With the switch in
the Pre position, the Direct Output signal is only
effected by the Level, -10dB Pad, and Tuning Mute
controls. This allows you to adjust your tone and
volume on stage without changing the Direct Output
signal level and confusing your sound man.
Changing the Pre/Post EQ switch to “Post” ( In),
sends the “GK sound” and preamp response to the
Direct Out jack. This gives you complete control over
the Direct Out’s tone and volume. In addition, a
Ground (Gnd) Lift switch is included to remove hum
and buzz when connecting to equipment powered by
a different ground system.
9
Bridged Mode Operation
Note:
To operate the 2001RB in bridge mode, you must use
the L/BR Speakon outputs only. Using the Left
channel, 1/4” outputs will not work, since the ground
for those jacks are internally disconected when in
bridge mode. Using any of the Right channel 1/4” or
Speakon outputs is not recommended as this will result
in a malfunction, or undesired operation of the
amplifier.
1. Make sure nothing is connected to any of the Right
channel outputs.
2. Slide the Bridge Mode switch on the back of the amp
Bridged Mode Operation
from Dual mono, to Bridge.
3. The “Right Level” knob on the back of the amp
should be turned all the way up (clockwise) or power
output will be compromised.
2001RB& 2001RBP
Since Bridge Mode operation is only available through
the Speakon outputs, the type of Speakon cable you
need depends on the brand of cabinets that you are
using.When using our RBH Series cabinets, using our
four-conductor Speakon to Speakon Biamp cable will
allow Bridged Mode and Bi-amp operation
simulaneously. Since the 50W horn amps are always
active, this allows youto deliver 1080W to your cabinet
and 50W to the horn. When using other brand name
cabinets a two-conductor Speakon cable will be needed
but the Bi-amp feature will not work. It is very
important, that these two-conductor Speakon cables
are wired correctly. The 1+ pin connects to the tip of
the 1/4” plug and the 1- pin connects to the shield.
DO NOT USE “BRIDGED MODE”
SPEAKON CABLES WITH THIS
AMP!!!
These are wired 1+ and 2+ which would connect the
horn and woofer amps together. This could cause
damage to your cabinet and/or the amplifier.
2001RB setup for Bridged Bi-Amp Operation:
2001RB setup for Bridged Normal Operation:
10
2001RB & 2001RBP
Bi-Amp and Normal Operation
The 2001RB’s unique design allows for easy setup
into Bi-Amp or Normal configurations. The operational mode is configured by how you connect your
speaker cabinets. In addition, you have the option of
driving one cabinet in Bi-Amp and one with Normal
operation.
2001RB setup for Bi-Amp Operation:
2001RB setup for Normal Operation:
Bi-Amp & Normal Operation
2001RB setup for Bi-Amp Operation:
The Bi-Amp feature of the 2001RB is automatically
engaged when you connect an RBH series cabinet
(with switch on the cabinet set to Bi-Amp) to the
2001RB with the supplied 4 conductor Speakon cable.
This setup gives the 2001RB complete control of the
tweeter and woofer signals sent to your rig. Now you
can push the woofers to the max., while the tweeter
remains clean, crisp and free of clipping distortion.
In addition, a smooth tight tone is easily dialed in by
adjusting the Tweeter and Woofer Master controls on
the 2001RB front panel. Note: In the Bi-Amp configuration, we recommend starting with the Woofer XOver and Tweeter Hi-Cut controls in.
GK Speakon Cable
1+ 540W Amp +
1- 540W Amp -
2+ 50W Amp +
2- 50W Amp -
GK RBH Series Cabinet
410RBH, 210RBH,
115RBH
Set to Bi-Amp mode.
2001RB setup for Normal Operation:
The 2001RB series amplifier is configured for
normal operation when you are connecting to any
cabinet with a 2 conductor Speakon cable, 1/4” to
1/4” speaker cable or 1/4” to banana plug speaker
cable. In this setup, the speaker cabinet is driven
by the 540W amp and the 50W tweeter amplifier is
not used. If you are using RBH series cabinets, the
volume of the tweeter (relative to the woofer’s
volume) can be adjusted using the Horn Level
control of the cabinet’s internal crossover.
GK Speakon Cable
1+ 540W Amp +
1- 540W Amp -
¼” Speaker Cable
Tip 540W Amp +
Shield 540W Amp -
GK RBH Series Cabinet
410RBH, 210RBH, 115RBH
Set to Full Range mode.
Any brand name cabinet with
appropriate impedance and
power rating.
11
Installation and Maintenance
2001RB & 2001RBP
Installation:
·To insure proper operation and to avoid
.
potential safety hazards, place the unit on a
firm, level surface. When installing the unit
in a rack, be sure the mounting hardware can
support the amplifier’s weight. To save space
in your rack, the 2001RB’s feet can be
removed using a Philips head screwdriver.
·Make certain that proper space is provided for
.
ventilation. Never block the fan vent holes
in the rear or front of the amplifier. If the
amplifier will be installed in a rack or other
enclosed area, make sure that there is
sufficient air movement within the enclosure
Installation & Maintenance
·Avoid installation in extremely hot or cold
.
·Avoid moist or humid locations.
.
·Remember, power amplifiers generate heat.
.
to allow proper cooling. Consult your dealer
for more information.
locations, and areas that are exposed to direct
sunlight, or near heating equipment.
The heat sink fins and ventilation slots that
form part of the enclosure are specially
designed to remove this heat. Placing other
electronic equipment near these heatdissipation systems may possibly affect the
long-term reliability of both your amplifier
and the other equipment.
Cleaning:
When the unit gets dirty, clean only with a dry cloth.
Never use benzene, thinner, alcohol, or other volatile
cleaning agents. Do not use abrasive cleaners, as they
may damage the finish of metal parts. Avoid spraying
insecticides near the unit.
Maintenance:
Your new amplifier is rugged. It was built to give you
years of trouble-free operation, if it is operated in
accordance with the instructions contained in this
manual. The only maintenance required is cleaning.
If you are going to move your amplifier around
frequently, we recommend a road case to protect it
from scratches and road wear.
Moving the Unit:
Before moving the unit, be certain to disconnect any
interconnection cords with other components, and make
sure that you disconnect the unit from the AC outlet.
12
2001RB & 2001RBP
Front Panel Controls
INPUT:
1. Input:
A standard ¼” input jack to plug in active or
passive basses using a shielded cord.
2. -10dB PAD:
Input attenuator button. The button is generally left out, except in rare cases when the clip
LED flashes. This switch should be pressed if
the CLIP LED stays on continuosly. It may be
necessary to “pad” the input if you are using a
bass with active electronics or very high output.
Clip LED:
LED lights yellow when the input stage is being
over-driven. If -10dB PAD (2) is pressed and
clip LED still stays lit, turn down the volume on
your bass.
Tuning Mute Button:
Set this switch to “ON” (In) when tuning up.
This switch mutes all outputs from the amplifier (speaker, direct, and balanced outs) so you
can tune up without sending signal to the
audience, speakers, or the P.A. system. Tuning
Mute can be footswitch controlled by using the
GK “RFB-III” footswitch, which will leave both
hands free to tune your instrument. To control
Tuning Mute by footswitch, the “Tuning Mute”
switch on the 2001RB must be in the “OFF”
(OUT) position.
Mute LED:
LED turns on when “Tuning Mute” is switched
to the “ON” position or when activated through
the footswitch.
Channel A/B:
Switches between the Normal and Overdrive
channels. When in the “B” (In) position, the
switch activates “Channel B” (Overdrive). “A”
(Out) position activates “Channel A” (Clean).
In order to use the footswitch to control the
channel switching,“Channel A/B” should be in
the “A” (Out) position on the 2001RB.
CHANNEL B:
Channel B LED:
LED turns on when in the “Channel B” (Overdrive) mode.
3. Gain:
Controls the amount of overdrive in the “B”
channel. At low settings it provides a smooth
distorted sound. At high levels it will provide
full saturation with long sustain.
4. Edge:
Treble control for the Overdrive channel.
5. Bottom
Bass control for the Overdrive channel.
6. Level-B:
Adjusts the output level of the Overdrive channel.
CHANNEL A:
Channel A LED:
LED turns on when in the “Channel A”
(Clean)mode.
7. Level-A:
Sets preamp gain after the input stage. It is
used in conjunction with the input pad, to
optimize the amplifier’s headroom.
VOICING FILTERS:
8. 4/5 String Bass:
Switching this button to the “ON’ position,
voices the pre-amp for basses with “B” tuning
(5 string bass). Leaving it in the “OUT” position will voice the amp like the 800RB, for a
four string bass.
9. Contour:
Drops the mid-range frequencies while boosting
lows & highs.
10. Presence:
This adds edge and definition to higher fre-
quencies.
:
Front Panel Controls
13
ACTIVE EQUALIZATION:
11. Treble:
Boost and cut at 7kHz+14dB shelving type. Add
or remove edge and definition.
12. High Mid:
Boost and cut at 1 kHz +6dB -10dB, “Q Optimized,” band pass type. Works on lower string
harmonics, and effects the punch of your
sound.
13. Low Mid:
Boost and cut at 250Hz +6dB -10dB, “Q Optimized,” band pass type. Works on the main
body of your sound.
14. Bass:
Boost and cut at 60Hz +10dB, shelving type.
Front Panel Controls
Controls low end push.
Outputs:
BI-AMP OUTPUT:
15. Boost:
A post EQ gain stage using G.I.V.E. technology
which adds “growl” as it is turned up.
16. Tweeter:
Master volume control for the tweeter (50W)
amp.
Tweeter Hi-Cut:
Cuts frequencies above 10kHz, producing a
more “cone-like” (less metallic/harsh) sound
from the tweeter.
17.Woofer:
Master volume control for the woofer (Main)
amp.
Woofer X-Over:
Press this button to engage the electronic
crossover for the woofer. This cuts frequencies
above 5kHz (Rolls off the highs).
POWER:
18. Power/Protect LED:
The LED flashes at turn-on for five seconds
while the amp powers up. The LED turns blue
when the amp is ready to play. Should the amp
experience a fault (over heat, over current) the
amp will mute and this LED will flash orange
until the condition is corrected. This LED turns
green when the power switch is turned off.
Standby Mode:
When using two or more 2001RBs in a master/
slave configuration, the power LED on the slave
amps will be orange. The LEDs will turn blue
when the master amp is turned on.
19. Power Switch:
Turns the amplifier on or off. Should a problem
occur during operation press this switch out
first. The power LED should green at this point
or flashing orange if a fault is present.
2001RB & 2001RBP
14
Rear Panel Controls
2001RB & 2001RBP
Rear Panel Controls
1. AC Receptacle:
The power cord is detachable and plugs in here.
2. Remote Trigger:
This feature is used when using multiple 2001RB’s as
“master” and “slave” units. It allows you to turn on
all amplifiers at the same time, when the “master”
unit is powered on.
In:
Accepts the +12VDC signal from the “master”
2001RB’s Trigger Out jack to activate or turn on, the
“slave” 2001RBs when in standby mode.
Out:
Provides +12VDC as a trigger output to remotely turn
on a “slave” 2001RB.
3. Right “Speakon” Outputs:
Enables BI-AMP operation by connecting a GK-RBH
Series cabinet with the provided 4 conductor Speakon
cable. This connects the 50W amplifier allowing the
Tweeter control on the front panel to control the
signal going to the horn. See Bi-Amp and Normal
Operation on page 7 for more information.
4. Right Speaker Out:
540W power amp output for Full-Range operation
only. They deliver 540 watts into 2 Ohms or 360 watts
into 4 Ohms. Lower impedances should not be used.
5. Right Level:
This adjusts the output level of the right channel only
in dual-mono mode.
6. Bridge Mode:
This allows one to switch from Dual/Mono to Bridge
mode.
7. Left Speaker Out:
540W power amp output for Full-Range operation
only. They deliver 540 watts into 2 Ohms or 360watts
into 4 Ohms. Lower impedances should not be used.
8. Left/Bridged “Speakon” Outputs:
Enables BI-AMP operation by connecting a GK-RBH
Series cabinet with the provided 4 conductor Speakon
cable. This connects the 50W amplifier allowing the
Tweeter control on the front panel to control the
signal going to the horn. See Bi-Amp and Normal
Operation on page 7 for more information.
These “Speakon” outputs also enable “bridged
mode” operation. When in bridged mode, the 2001RB
will be in a simultaneous bridged/Bi-amp mode, since
the 50W horn amplifiers are always active ( in the
clean channel only) unless you choose to use the
“horn mute” feature, via the RFB-III footswitch.
DO NOT CONNECT ANYTHING TO THE RIGHT
CHANNEL OUTPUTS WHEN IN BRIDGED MODE!!
DO NOT USE “BRIDGE MODE” CABLES WITH THIS
AMPLIFIER, AS THIS COULD RESULT IN A
MALFUNCTION AND/OR DAMAGE TO THE
AMPLIFIER.
9. Footswitch:
Provides a means to hook-up the RFB-III, three
button footswitch to your amplifier, with a standard 5
pin DIN (MIDI) cable. The RFB-III allows remote
Channel Switching (Level A or Level B), Horn Mute
(when in the clean channel) and Tuning Mute.
15
10. Direct Out:
Gnd/Lift:
This switch disconnects the ground on the balanced,
XLR output to eliminate hum and buzz when
connnecting to equipment that is running on a
different ground system.
Pre/Post EQ:
Selects the direct out signal before or after the EQ.
Direct Level Out:
Electronically balanced adjustable output, that you
can run to your P.A. system.
11. Send, Return & Tuner:
Send:
Line level output that is post EQ and pre Boost. Used
Rear Panel Controls
when sending a full range mono signal to an
extrernal device (effects, processors, etc.)
Return:
Accepts line level return from external effects that are
connected in a “series loop”.
Tuner:
Output comes directly off the input stage and can be
patched to a tuner with a shielded patch cord. This
output is unaffected by the Tuning Mute feature.
12. Chain In & Chain Out :
This “daisy chain” feature is used when multiple
2001RBs are used as “master” and “slave” units.
Both jacks are stereo, where the “tip” is the “woofer
output” and the “ring” is the “horn output”.
Chain in:
When the master amp’s “Chain out” signal is input to
the slave amp’s “Chain in”, the slave amp’s preamp/
tone control section is bypassed completely, and will
serve as a straight power amp only.
Chain out:
This output is used to “daisy chain” or connect other
slave amps to the master amp. The signal going into
the slave amp’s “Chain in” is the same signal coming
out of the “Chain out”. This eliminates the need for
special Y-adapters.
2001RB & 2001RBP
CAUTION:
UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES
SHOULD THE 540W AMP AND
THE 50W AMP BE CONNECTED
TO EACH OTHER OR BE
CONNECTED TO THE SAME
SPEAKER !!!
NOTE:
When using the “Daisy-Chain” feature, the stereo
cable cord should be one foot in length or as short as
possible to reduce hum/noise.
Maximum Recommended Loads:
Two 4 Ohm or four 8 Ohm cabinets per side, dual
mono mode. One 4 Ohm or two 8 Ohm cabinets in
bridged mode. One or two 8 Ohm horns on the 50W
Amps.
16
2001RB & 2001RBP
Tech Talk
Characteristics of the 2001RB:
The 2001RB is a flexible, state-of-the-art Bass
Amplifier, designed to deliver maximum performance,
and be simple to operate. This is accomplished
through a few, very important features:
.
·Extremely high current power supply and
power amp circuitry, gets the sound out of
your head.
.
·Bi-Amp sound, two power amps, 540 Watts for
the woofer (1080W bridged), and 50 Watts for
the horn.
.
·Electronic crossover, seamless two-way
sound.
.
·Four, Bass specific bands of active
equalization for precise tone control.
.
·Three voicing filters for shaping and
customizing your sound.
·Balanced direct output with level control
.
eliminates need for a direct box.
.
·Continuously variable fan cooling.
.
·Designed and Built in the U.S. for years of
reliability and quality service.
There is nothing in the 2001RB power amp to come
between you and your sound except faithful, raw
power.
Bi-Amp Sound:
Bass players have always liked the growl they get from
slight overdrive. In GK amps this comes partly from
the boost circuits and partly from the power amp. The
problem is that growl, sounds great through woofers,
and horrible through horns. In the typical full range
system with a passive crossover, there is no way to get
growl and keep the definition that the horn provides.
The horn always has to be turned down. In a Bi-Amp
system like the 2001RB, the woofer and the horn,
each have their own power amp, allowing us to get
growl in the woofer only, while keeping the horn
sound crystal clear. Now you can over-drive the
woofer as much as you want, and leave the horn all
the way up, keeping the definition it brings to your
sound. Running the 2001RB in Bi-Amp mode
through a GK-RBH cabinet, for the first time allows
full access to the benefits of Bi-Amp sound. This is the
reason the 2001RB is a Bi-Amp, and it is the reason
you will be able to explore an entirely new territory of
Bass sound.
Tech Talk
High Current Output & Bass Response:
When a power amplifier is pushing several speaker
cones, and a high-power transient like a string slap
comes along, the amp has to tap into a large power
reserve to maintain cone control. It’s kind of like
grabbing a swing at the bottom of it’s travel and
trying to push it the other way - it could knock you
over. If the amplifier doesn’t have this ability, the
sound is unresponsive and less out front. The amp
loses it’s punch and feel at higher playing levels.
Instead of responding to your every command, the
amplifier simply cuts those transients off, leaving you
with the feeling that something is missing in your
sound.
Since most amplifiers have limited output current
capacity, they need “current limiting circuits” to
protect against self-destruction. High-power transients trigger these circuits, which rob the amplifier of
it’s ability to control speaker cones. This creates a
mushy, unresponsive feel to your sound. The 2001RB
has extremely high current capacity, so it doesn’t
need current limiting circuits for over-load protec-
Electronic Crossover:
Bi-Amp systems allow the crossover to be electronic
and therefore, have much higher quality than passive
crossovers. A crossover separates the sound into two
parts (high and low frequency). The highs are sent to
the horn or high frequency cabinet and the lows are
sent to the woofer. In an ideal system, adding the
highs and the lows back together would recover the
original signal. Most passive Bass systems have very
poor crossovers, resulting in severe signal corruption.
When these signals are added back together (as in
your ear), they have very little in common with the
original signal. The 2001RB uses a Constant Voltage
crossover which results in very little signal corruption. In fact, when the high and low signals are
added back together, the result is extremely close to
the original. This makes a two-way system sound
more seamless, and less artificial. We have also
included a Tweeter Hi-Cut switch in the crossover,
which rolls the tweeter off above 10kHz giving it a less
glassy, more cone like sound.
17
Tech Talk
Equalization:
The sound you want is in your head, but you just
can’t get it. You think it’s you, your bass or maybe
your amp. Yes, your amp. Standard tone controls and
graphic equalizers don’t get it. Sure, they give you
plenty of variation, but they don’t provide what the
instrument really needs. The fact is, graphic equalizers are intended for room equalization, and are only
Tech Talk
put in bass amps because it’s a no-brainer for the
designer. The equalization in Gallien-Krueger
amplifiers reflects 30 years of continuous development and refinement. The GK equalizer is unique to
the industry, it’s not just a normal four band equalizer, each section is a special circuit optimized to
perform a Bass specific job in its range of operation.
These sections are wired in Series, so they add to one
another creating a tremendously flexible equalizer,
that doesn’t sound weird at any setting. You actually
might even get to hear that sound in your head.
Voicing Filters:
Voicing filters are used to completely re-voice the
amplifier. In the case of the Contour and String Bass
controls, the effect is dramatic.
The Contour control tunes between two different
shaping circuits, with greatly different response. With
the control all the way up, the low end is slightly
boosted, the mids are dropped and the high end is
pushed up. This is a response contour not available
with a normal equalizer, and is only found in GK
amplifiers.
The way a Bass amp deals with the instrument low
string is a critical part of it’s sound. In fact, a five
string instrument requires an entirely different low
end response than a four string instrument. No
equalizer can make the necessary adjustments to
accommodate both, however the String Bass button
on the 2001RB does just that. When it is out, the
2001RB is voiced like the 800RB. Push it in and the
2001RB is voiced for five string instruments. For
some playing styles you may want it in, even with a
four string instrument…at least now, you have a
choice!
“G.I.V.E.” Technology:
As in all GK pre-amps, the 2001RB pre-amp incorporates what we call G.I.V.E (Gate Induced Valve Effect)
2001RB & 2001RBP
Technology. We use field effect devices with the gate
biased in a way that emphasizes the optimum harmonic content of the signal. Working in concert with
our unique Four Band Active Equalizer, and three
stage Voicing Filter Section, G.I.V.E. technology
produces a consistently pleasing bass tone.
Cool Running = Reliability:
The 2001RB uses a “dual rail power supply” that
generates about half the heat of conventional
amplifiers. Low output signals run off a low voltage
supply, and high level signals run off a high voltage
supply. This keeps the amp running a lot cooler and
makes it much more reliable. To cool the amp when
its being driven hard, we’ve designed a temperature
sensitive fan cooling system. When the amp is under
a light load, the fan is off or running at a low speed,
reducing fan noise. As the amp works harder, the fan
speed increases to keep everything cool.
Smart Protection Circuitry:
The 2001RB’s protection circuitry constantly monitors for unsafe operating conditions such as short
circuits, mis-wired speaker cables, blown speakers,
improper ventilation and incorrect speaker configurations. In addition, protection is provided during
power up/down. If the 2001RB senses any unsafe
operating conditions, the output signal is immediately muted and the power light changes from Blue to
flashing orange. The amplifier will remain muted
until the fault is removed. If the protection circuit
activates while playing, turn the amplifier off and
check the amplifier speaker output connections. Be
sure that you are not exceeding the maximum
recommend load described in this manual. Also,
make sure that you have connected the amplifier to
your speakers as described in Bi-Amp and Normal
Operation on page 7. If the problem persists, contact
GK directly for advice.
Low Noise Operation:
The 2001RB uses a high gain, high headroom, low
noise input stage. It has such a large dynamic range
(60v p-p) that very few instruments can overdrive it.
Even most basses with “active” electronics do not
need the input attenuator to be set. The benefit to you
is less hiss from your horn, and over all, much less
noise.
18
2001RB & 2001RBP
Tech Talk
Speakon Cables:
To make use of the 2001RB’s Bi-Amp and Bridge
mode features you will need to use the four conductor
Speakon cable (provided with the 2001RB head) to
connect to a GK RBH Series cabinet. This specially
designed cable carries the signals for both amplifiers
(540W Woofer Amps and 50W Tweeter Amps) to the
speaker cabinet. Below is a table describing the
Speakon cable connections to the 2001RB head.
To obtain an additional 4 conductor Speakon cable
for use with the 2001RB please contact your local
dealer or contact GK directly.
Tech Talk
In Closing:
You should now have a thorough understanding of
how your new 2001RB amplifier works and what
advantages it can offer you in getting “your” sound.
We thank you for reading the Owner’s Manual and
wish you the best of times! Please send us your
comments via www.gallien-krueger.com or email us at
sales@gallien.com.
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Block Diagram
2001RB & RBP Specifications:
2001RB ONLY:
Output Power:
Woofer Amplifier 2 x 540W @ 2 Ohms
Both Ch. Driven 2 x 360W @ 4 Ohms