Service Manual
400RB-III Series
Table of Contents
Operating Instructions |
3 |
Turn On / Calibration Procedure |
20 |
Schematics |
21 |
Bill of Materials |
22 |
Note: As of 1/99, there are no Engineering Change Orders (ECOs) for this model. New ECOs will be re-
leased as they are issued.
<![endif]>Table of Contents
400RB Series
Table Of Contents |
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Introduction..................................................................... |
3 |
Quick Start....................................................................... |
5 |
Sound Tips....................................................................... |
6 |
Safety Information.......................................................... |
7 |
Installation and Maintenance........................................ |
8 |
Front Panel Controls..................................................... |
9 |
Rear Panel Controls...................................................... |
10 |
400RB Series Combos................................................... |
11 |
Tech Talk....................................................................... |
12 |
Specifications................................................................. |
14 |
Notes.............................................................................. |
15 |
*All Features and specifications are subject to change without notice. **This list is subject to change without notice.
Gallien-Krueger
2240 Paragon Dr.
San Jose, CA, 95131
phone: 408-441-7970
fax: 408-441-8085
www.gallien-krueger.com
2
400RB Series
Congratulations
Your purchase of a new Gallien-Krueger 400RB Series product is surely the result of much careful consideration on your part. For our part, we at GallienKrueger are pleased that you chose us, and are determined that you will be a satisfied customer. In choosing a 400RB Series product, you own an amplifier with many unique features, that can take you where you have never been before.
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 section 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 400RB Head: |
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400RB |
1 |
Rack mount ears with hardware |
2 |
Power cord |
1 |
Owner’s manual |
1 |
Warranty card |
1 |
Safety instructions sheet |
1 |
Included with your 400RB Combo: |
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400RB/112, or /115 |
1 |
Power Cord |
1 |
Owner’s Manual |
1 |
Warranty Card |
1 |
Safety Instructions Sheet |
1 |
If your 400RB Series amplifier or combo 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!
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3
| <![if ! IE]> <![endif]>Introduction |
400RB Series
Always Listening
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 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, GK 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. Gallien-Krueger 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.
We’ll be listening,
Robert Gallien
4
400RB Series
Quick Start
The 400RB Series 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.
First:
Set the power switch to Off and connect the supplied power cable from the amplifier AC receptacle to an AC power outlet of proper voltage and power rating (see safety information on page 7 for details).
Next:
Connect your speaker cabinets to the amplifier outputs marked 240W. Be sure not to exceed the recommended speaker load listed below.
Maximum Recommended Speaker Load:
One 4 Ohm, or two 8 Ohm cabinets.
If you are using an RBH series cabinet, set the crossover switch to full range.
Then:
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 Volume and Master Volumes at 0. If you have a five string bass, push the button marked String Bass in.
Next:
Using an instrument cable, connect your bass to the Input jack and turn the power switch on and play. If the clip LED flashes, push the button marked -10db in. This will prevent you from overdriving the preamp.
Now:
Set the master control to 12 o’clock and slowly bring the Master volume up. Do not turn the Volume control in the input section past 12 o’clock unless you want an overdrive effect. If you have a bass with passive electronics make sure the controls are all the way up. If you have a bass with active electronics, turn all of the EQ controls on the bass to the middle or flat position.
At This Point:
You should be hearing your bass quite well. You can use the Volume and Master to achieve a comfortable sound level. Remember: If you need more volume, turn up the Master control first.
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| <![if ! IE]> <![endif]>Sound Tips |
400RB Series
Sound Tips
The 400RB Series has several unique features which, if used properly, will obtain that sound you have been searching for.
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.
String Bass:
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 400RB Series does just that. When it is out, the 400RB is voiced like the 800RB (the world’s classic four string amp). Push it in and the 400RB 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. 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 400RB 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. The Direct Output signal is only effected by the -10dB Pad, and Tuning Mute controls. This allows you to adjust your tone and volume on stage without changing the Direct Out 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.
6
400RB Series
Safety Information
Verify Line Voltage and Amperage Before
Use:
Your new 400RB Series Bass Amp has been factory |
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configured for use with: |
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120 |
Volt/60Hz 20 Amp circuit for USA & |
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Canada. |
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230 |
Volt/50Hz 10 Amp circuit for Europe |
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& Australia. |
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100 |
Volt/50Hz 20 Amp circuit for Japan. |
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Proper AC circuit for all other countries. 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 heavy-power 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.
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 TheAC 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 TheAmplifier 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.
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7
<![endif]>Installation & Maintenance
400RB Series
Installation and Maintenance
Installation: |
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To insure proper operation and to avoid |
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potential safety hazards, place the unit on a |
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firm, level surface. When installing the unit |
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in a rack, be sure the mounting hardware can |
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support the amplifier’s weight. To save space |
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in your rack, the 400RB’s feet can be |
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removed using a Philips head screwdriver. |
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Make certain that proper space is provided |
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for ventilation. |
The 400RB Series requires at |
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least ½ inch clearance above for proper |
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ventilation. Never block the fan vent holes in |
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the top or front of the amplifier. If the |
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amplifier will be installed in a rack or other |
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enclosed area, make sure that there is |
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sufficient air movement within the enclosure |
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to allow proper |
cooling. Consult your dealer |
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for more information. |
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Avoid installation in extremely hot or cold |
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locations, and areas that are exposed to direct |
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sunlight, or near heating equipment. |
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Avoid moist or humid locations. |
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Remember, power amplifiers generate heat. |
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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.
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.
Cleaning:
When the unit gets dirty, wipe it with a clean, soft and dry cloth. If necessary, first wipe the surface with a soft cloth slightly dampened with mild, soapy water, followed by a fresh cloth with clean water. Wipe immediately 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 a lifetime 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.
8
400RB Series
Front Panel Controls
1-Balanced Direct Out:
An electronically balanced output, that you can run
to your P.A. system.
2-Pre/Post EQ Button:
Selects the direct out signal from before or after the
EQ.
3-Input:
A standard ¼” input jack and input attenuator button. The button is generally left out, except in rare cases when the clip LED flashes.
4-Tuning Mute Button:
Set this switch to “On” when tuning up. No signal will be sent to the speakers, or the P.A. system.
5-Volume:
Sets pre-amp gain after the input stage. It is used in conjunction with the input pad, to optimize the amplifier’s headroom.
6-Voicing Filters: String Bass:
Setting this button voices the pre-amp for basses with “B” tuning. Leave it out and the amp is voiced like the
800RB, for 4 string basses.
Contour:
Drops the mid-range frequencies while boosting lows
& highs.
Presence:
Adds edge and definition to higher frequencies.
Active Equalization: 7-Treble:
Boost and cut at 7kHz+14dB shelving type. Add or remove edge and definition.
8-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.
9-LowMid:
Boost and cut at 250Hz +6dB -10dB, “Q Optimized,” band pass type. Works on the main body of your
sound.
10-Bass:
Boost and cut at 60Hz +10dB, shelving type. Controls
low end push.
Outputs: 11-Boost:
A post EQ gain stage using GIVE technology which adds “growl” as it is turned up.
12-Master:
Controls output level of the amplifier.
13-Effects Loop:
Send and return jacks provided for the insertion of effects after the EQ, but before the boost section. Some effect units have gain, turning the BOOST
down, will compensate for this.
14-Tuner Output
Output to tuner.
15-Power Switch
Turns the amplifier on or off. Should a problem occur during operation press this switch out first.
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9
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