Genz Benz SHEN-CPK-8T, SHEN-CPK-10T, Shenandoah Compak 300 Series, SHEN-CPK-H Owner's Manual
OWNERS MANUAL
FEATURES:
• Ultra Lightweight Compact Designs • SMPS/Class D Power Amplication Technology
• Two Pre Amp Channels w/Active EQ • Neodymium Loudspeaker and Compression Tweeter
• Input Phase Reverse Switch • 24-Bit Studio Quality Digital Effects
• Phantom Power for Condenser Mics • Bottom-mounted Tilt Foot
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION – The Shenandoah Compak 300 series of acoustic amps delivers warm, rich tone
and phenomenal output in surprisingly compact, lightweight cabinets. Each model produces 175 watts as a combo
and 300 watts with an 8 ohm extension cabinet. The amplier is congured as a 2 channel – 3 input platform and
each channel is equipped with a ¼” unbalanced line input. Channel 2 offers an XLR balanced microphone input
(with phantom power) as well. Inputs on each channel are summed (mixed) together at a 1:1 ratio, so they can all
be used simultaneously. Each channel then passes through independent 3 band equalizers with a sweepable
midrange frequency. Equalization centers were carefully selected for use with acoustic instruments. Each channel
also contains individual send controls to the on-board 24-bit 15 program digital effects circuit. The back panel
contains 3 direct outputs with ground lift switch, an effects loop, auxiliary input, headphone jack, tuner out, effects
cancel jack, and 2-1/4” speaker jacks.
1
FRONT PANEL
INPUTS – The Shenandoah Compak 300 is equipped with 2 types of input jacks. The ¼” input is unbalanced and
“line level” with a usable sensitivity from 100 mV to 1 volt. The input impedance is 270 k ohms. The ¼” input will also
accept most active balanced line sources, automatically unbalancing them by recognizing the tip portion of the
balanced signal. If an instrument offers an unbalanced output it should be connected to the unbalanced input of the
Shenandoah amp. Additionally, the precision input scaling preamp contains a 45 Hz, 12dB/octave high pass lter
(more effective and less intrusive than the more common 6 dB lters) and an “RFI” lter (radio frequency interference)
to eliminate unwanted noise. The XLR input jack is balanced and “microphone level”, with a usable sensitivity from
-60dBv to -30 dBv. It is not a line level input. It contains a precision full range differential microphone preamp with
phantom power. For use with higher-level sources (such as the balanced line level output from a keyboard or other
instruments), a balanced pad network will be necessary to use the balanced input. For instance, a Rapco, “Pad Blox”,
-20 or -30 pad or similar product could be used.
COMBINING XLR & ¼” INPUTS – A unique feature of the Shenandoah Compak is the ability to mix the XLR
balanced and ¼” unbalanced inputs. In many situations, this effectively makes the amplier function as a 3 channel
amplier. The most effective way to use this feature is to set the volume on the channel using the XLR microphone
input and then adjusting the level control on the instrument itself (assuming that it has one) to blend levels between the
2 inputs. Equalization will be common to both inputs on the channel.
INPUT O/L LED –This red O/L LED senses the input signal to the preamp section and warns of input overload. For
the cleanest signal possible this LED should only ash with the strongest signal peaks. Adjust this sensitivity with the
volume control of your instrument, the Shenandoah Compak’s channel volume and nal overall volume with the amps
master volume.
PHASE SWITCH – Each channel is provided with a phase reverse switch. By reversing the phase of the input
signal, feedback tendencies can be reduced if caused by sympathetic vibrations between the speaker and the
instrument. Under some conditions, changing the phase can drastically improve the acoustic output from the amplier
and can improve the playability of some instruments.
ON-BOARD STUDIO QUALITY DIGITAL EFFECTS – The Shenandoah Compak contains a studio quality
24-bit, 15 program digital effects processor. Using pro audio industry digital processing hardware, we have achieved
realistic, high quality effects algorithms. Level differences are normal when switching between different effects; just
adjust the channel send and master level controls accordingly. The effects level control on each channel adjusts the
send level to the digital effects processor. The digital effects level in the master section controls the effects return level
from the processor. In general, turning up the channel effects send will yield more lush effects.
2
ACTIVE EQUALIZATION –The Shenandoah Compak 300 offers a 3 band (with sweepable mid) active equalizer
for each channel. This equalizer network, similar to those found on professional sound consoles, are very useful tools
when used correctly.
LOW FREQUENCY EQ
The corner frequency of the low frequency section is 125 Hz, shelving curve. This frequency is particularly handy
when dealing with low frequency feedback from a big dreadnaught guitar. A combination of volume reduction and
turning down the low frequency control will generally get good results. Become familiar with the action of the controls
since their effective gain range is quite large. The low frequency control is also handy for adding some “bottom” to a
baritone sax and “chunk” to a mandolin or mando-cello.
HIGH FREQUENCY EQ
The corner frequency of the high frequency section is 8 kHz, shelving curve. This frequency is especially useful for
taming the bright harshness of some mandolins, violins, brass and reeds. It can also be used to help acoustic guitars,
cellos and utes cut through other players in loud club situations.
MID FREQUENCY EQ
The “sweepable mid” section features 12 dB of cut or boost with a bandwidth approximately 1 octave wide. The center
frequency of this lter is continuously user adjustable from 250 Hz to 5 kHz with a single control. This lter is typically
(but not always) used to reduce or remove offending frequencies in the instrument’s pick-up response. Removing only
the minimum amount necessary will yield the most acoustically rewarding results. The easiest and most repeatable
way to determine the offending frequency range is to boost the mid level somewhat (but not to the point of feedback)
and while playing, sweep the frequency control slowly across its range. You may need a third hand until it becomes
second nature, but soon you will nd out just how quick it can be. You will hear a clear and obvious accentuation of
the ugliness you want to remove. The ear is a most sensitive and discriminating piece of test equipment when used
in this manner, another good reason to protect them! This is the way many touring sound engineers equalize, since it
is quick, accurate and repeatable. Occasionally, you will nd need to use the mid section in “boost” mode, particularly
common when adding higher mids (bite) to an otherwise dull instrument, or adding low mid “body” to an otherwise thin
sound. Spend some time experimenting so that the process becomes creative as well as corrective.
It may be helpful to know - The 9 O’Clock position is 350Hz, the 12 O’Clock position is 1KHz and the 3 O’Clock
position is 2.5KHz.
EFFECTS VOLUME – This control adjusts the amount of the effects signal return. Adjust this inconjunction with
the channel effects level control.
MASTER VOLUME – The master volume control adjusts the overall volume of channel 1, channel 2 and the
effects return (either on-board or digital). Typically, best results are obtained when this control is operated between the
9:00 o’clock and 2:00 o’clock positions.
3
BACK PANEL
DIRECT OUTPUTS –The Shenandoah Compak 300 contains the most comprehensive direct output section
available on any acoustic instrument amplier. Both XLR balanced and ¼” unbalanced outputs make “real world
sense” when connecting with other equipment. The ¼” unbalanced outputs are true professional line level (+4 dBv)
with an output impedance of 1k ohm, and can drive virtually any line level input, including power ampliers. The XLR
balanced output is “hot” mic level, rated at –30 dBv. This conguration allows the Shenandoah Compak to drive very
long cable lengths (250+ feet) without problems or added noise. The XLR balanced direct outputs can be “ground
lifted” with the global ground lift switch. This switch lifts pin 1 on all of the XLR balanced outputs to break any ground
loops between the Shenandoah Compak and a PA system. Separate Channel 1 and Channel 2 outputs are post
channel volume/pre effects (to take advantage of the dual inputs on each channel) while the Channel 1+2 output is
post master volume/post eq/post effects to aid in sending a “nished” mixed signal to a PA system or external power
amplier.
Note: The design of the Shenandoah Compak 300 allows the use as a preamp/direct box only. It is okay to use the
amplier without speakers attached.
EFFECTS LOOP—A series effects loop is provided so an out-board effects processor can be used with or in place
of the on-board Digital Effects unit. The return level from an external processor into the ¼” effects return jack should
be adjusted using the controls of the external processor. A ¼” EFFECTS CANCEL jack is provided on the back panel
to mute both internal and external effects via footswitch. Any standard single button latching footswitch (with shielded
cable) may be used. Signal is muted when the switch is closed. The on-board effects can be turned off by using the
program selection labeled “bypass”. All other on-board effects on the Shenandoah Compak can be used in conjunction with an out-board effects unit plugged into the effects loop.
AUX INPUT – A 1/4” unbalanced line level aux input is provided that sums directly to the main output bus, con-
trolled by the master volume control. This input is ideal for practicing with recorded tracks from a CD player, IPOD, or
MP-3 player. It is recommmended to use a cable with left & right signals connected to a “Y” jack, summing the signal
into the aux. input jack. Adjust the level of the playback source to balance with the guitar’s volume.
HEADPHONE OUT – A 1/4” TRS jack is provided for connection to headphones. Do not connect this output to
anything but headphones. For silent practicing just unplug the speaker. There is no harm using the amplier without a
speaker attached.
SPEAKER OUTPUT JACKS –The Shenandoah Compak 300 provides 2 parallel ¼” speaker output jacks.
Minimum total load is 4 ohms (Two 8 ohm speaker cabinets). The Shenandoah Compak is factory equipped with a
specially designed 8 ohm Neodymium speaker and a compression tweeter.
POWER AMPLIFIER – The power amplier used in the Shenandoah Compak is a super-efcient class D pulse
width modulation amplier, powered by a state of the art switchmode power supply which produces almost no waste
heat. This ultra lightweight amplier technology offers unparalleled performance and power and is the heart of this
lightweight design.
4
POWER INPUT – The Shenandoah Compak is shipped from the factory with a standard IEC type power inlet
connector and the appropriate detachable power cable for the market the amplier was shipped to. The power
input section of the Shenandoah Compak is auto-conguring and will adapt to any input voltage from 100 – 240 volts
without any adjustment by the user. The AC mains fuse is internal and not user changeable.
The power supply inside the chassis of the Shenandoah Compak 300 is a highly sophisticated auto-sensing, auto-conguring switch mode power supply. This class of supply does the energy conversion through a very efcient process,
which contributes to the lightweight design. The power supply itself is internally protected and fused against catastrophic faults.
PHANTOM POWER –An internal phantom power source (13.6 volts) is provided for use with condenser mics. This
power source is on at all times and does not affect the standard operation of the amp, even when a condenser mic is
not used. We use the DIN 45-596-P12 volt standard, which will operate virtually all of the live sound reinforcement condenser microphones on the market. Some “boutique” externally biased condenser mics will not be compatible and will
require 48 volt phantom power. We suggest live sound condenser mics by: AKG (C4500B, 4000B , etc.), Audio Technica (AT3035, 3032, Pro Series ,etc.), CAD, Shure and Crown.
TWEETER LEVEL CONTROL – The “rocker switch” tweeter level control provides three positions for
additional acoustic exibility. The positions are: On, Off and –6db. The –6db position of the tweeter is about half as
loud as the full On position.
CABINET DESIGN – REMOVABLE CHASSIS FEATURE—A unique element of the Shenandoah Compak 300
combo models is the ability to easily remove the amp “head” from the cabinet. This allows the player to extract the amplier and use it with larger speaker cabinets in larger venues. The amp head can be easily transported in the pocket of
a guitar gig bag. In fact, for some applications the Compak 300 could even function as a gloried state of the art direct
box!
.
Removal of the chassis is simple. We recommend rst unplugging the speaker cable from the back of the chassis.
Step One:
•Unscrew the large thumbscrews on both sides of the cabinet.
•It is recommended to screw these back into the chassis after the
amp is removed, so not to loose them.
Step Two:
•After the thumbscrews are removed, gently slide the chassis forward
using both hands to move it forward.
Step Three:
•As the chassis appears from within the cabinet, grab it from the front
end and remove it completely from the cabinet.
USING THE SHENANDOAH COMPAK 300 CHASSIS ONLY – After removing the amplier chassis
there are a variety of uses possible. Silent recording as a preamp/direct box, practicing by using the headphone
jack and aux input for an MP3 or CD player, using the amplier as a small mixer/amp with 2 PA speakers or using
the head with a much larger speaker cabinet for large venues.
BOTTOM-MOUNTED TILT FOOT – This tilt foot allows the cabinet to be tilted up towards the performer
enhancing the projection of the speaker.
5
SHENANDOAH COMPAK 300 COMBOS
SHEN-CPK-8T
This micro amp produces astonishingly high output, warm natural
tone with pristine clarity. The speaker components are our
Neodymium 8” woofer and soft dome tweeter. The unique cabinet
is designed so that the chassis controls point up towards the
performer.
SHEN-CPK-10T
This larger model is still surprisingly small with a larger output and
tonal footprint. This combo uses our Neodymium 10” woofer and
soft dome tweeter. The unique cabinet is designed so that the
chassis controls point up towards the performer.
SPECIFICATIONS:
SHEN-CPK-H (head)
Rated Power:
175W/8ohms; 300W/4ohms
Dimensions:
3.5”H x 10”W x 10.25”D
Weight:
3.5 LBS
SHEN-CPK-8T
Rated Power:
175W/8ohms; 300W/4ohms
Dimensions:
13.25”H x 11.25”W x 11.365”D
Weight:
16.5 LBS
OPTIONAL EXTENSION CABINETS - We offer
identical extension cabinet deisgns to mate with the combo
versions.
SHEN-CPK-EXT8 - When matched with the 8” combo, this small
rig will deliver 300 watts total output.
SHEN-CPK-EXT10 - When matched with the 10” combo, this
small rig will deliver 300 watts total output
SHEN-CPK-10T
Rated Power:
175W/8ohms; 300W/4ohms
Dimensions:
16.625”H x 12”W x 11.365”D
Weight:
19 LBS
We offer an optional small and large thick padded carry
bag for our Shenandoah Compak 300 combos
Amp-Sac-Sm - Fits our Shen-CPK-8T
Amp-Sac-Lg - Fits our Shen-CPK-10T
6
Shenandoah Compak 300
ENGINEERING SPECIFICATIONS
INPUTS
XLR Balanced input impedance: 2.2 k ohms
XLR Balanced input sensitivity: -60 to –30 dBV
¼” Unbalanced input impedance: 270 k ohms
¼” Unbalanced input sensitivity: -30 to +4 dBV
AMPLIFIER OUTPUT
Power at 8 ohm load: 175 watts RMS
Power at 4 ohm load: 300 watts RMS
THD + N (preamp): <0.02%
THD + N (power amp): <0.05%
Frequency response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz +/- 1dB
CHANNEL EQUALIZATION
Low frequency: 125 Hz shelving, +/-15dB
Mid frequency (sweep): 250 Hz – 5 kHz , peaking, +/-12dB
High frequency: 8 kHz shelving, +/-15dB
DIRECT OUTPUTS
XLR balanced output level: -30 dBV nominal
XLR balanced output impedance: 150 ohms
¼” unbalanced output level: +4 dBV nominal
¼” unbalanced output impedance: 1 k ohm
EFFECTS LOOP
¼” unbalanced output level: -10 dBV
¼” unbalanced output impedance: 1 k ohm
¼” unbalanced input level: -10 dBV
¼” unbalanced input impedance: 47 k ohm
¼” effects cancel jack: short T-S cancels return
DIGITAL EFFECTS
Processor type: WaveFront™ DSP engine
Internal processing: 24 bit
A/D converter: 24 bit – 64X oversampling
D/A converter: 24 bit – 128X oversampling
Dynamic Range: 80 dB
THD + N (1 kHz): <0.01%
Sampling rate: 48 kHz
7
SAFE OPERATING REQUIREMENTS:
• Never set an amplier on anything that will tip over or collapse under its weight.
• Provide a minimum distance of 25.4 mm (1 inch) around all sides of the amplier for sufcient ventilation. The ventilation should not be
impeded by coving the amplier’s vent openings with items such as newspapers, table-cloths, curtains, etc.
• No naked ame sources, such as lighted candles, should be placed on the Shenandoah Compak amplier.
• This amplier should not be exposed to dripping or splashing and no objects lled with liquids, such as vases or drinks, shall be placed on
this product.
• The Shenandoah Compak amplier should be connected to a mains socket outlet (power receptacle) with a protective earth (ground)
connection at all times.
• The ampliers mains plug (power plug) is considered the disconnect device and the connection must remain accessible at all times.
• This amplier is capable of producing sound pressure levels that may cause hearing loss.
• There are no user serviceable parts and hazardous operating voltages inside this unit. Always consult a qualied repair facility for service.
WARNING!
• The use and operation of this device constitutes an agreement of full release of any and all liability connected with it’s use. Only persons
familiar with the operation of high-powered professional audio equipment should attempt to operate this device.
• In addition, by use of this device, the user agrees to hold Genz Benz, Inc. and it’s designers, sales agents and all other
afliates and related parties harmless in the event of any accident, injury, damage or loss resulting from such use.
• Manufacturer’s sole responsibility is to provide a warranty on the specied performance of the product under normal operating conditions
for a period of 3 years.
WARRANTY:
• Genz Benz, Inc. warrants the model Shenandoah Compak to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a
period of 3 years from the date of purchase, when purchased from an authorized Genz Benz dealer.
• This warranty does not cover normal wear and tear incurred from the normally designed use of the product.
• This warranty is effective only if a copy of the original sales receipt is presented at the time of warranty service
• This limited warranty is completely transferable to any subsequent buyer as long as the original sales receipt is also transferred to suc
subsequent buyer.
• All warranty service must be performed by a Genz Benz authorized service center.
• Before returning any unit for service, a returned merchandise authorization number (RMA#) must be obtained by calling 480-941-0705
• This warranty is valid for the US & Canada only. For all products sold outside the USA, warranty is handled through our international
distributor for each country. For more information visit our website www.genzbenz.com
Declaration of Conformity
(89/336 EEC-EMC Directive)
Manufacturer’s Name: Genz Benz
Manufacturer’s Address: 7811 East Pierce Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85287, U.S.A.
Product Type: Audio Amplier
Model Number: Shenandoah Compak 300 (all versions)
Operating Power Condition: 100/115/230/240 V, 50/60 Hz
Effective Date: 01-01-2009
Conforms to the Following Standards: [X] EN 55013: 2001 + A1: 2003
[X] EN 55020: 2002 + A1: 2003
[X] EN 60065: 2001 + A1
[X] IEC 61000-3.2: 2000
[X] IEC 61000-3.3: 1994 + A1: 2001
[X] IEC 61000-4.2
[X] IEC 61000-4.3
[X] IEC 61000-4.4
[X] FCC 15.107 and 15.109
[X] RoHS Directive 2002/95/EC
[X] WEEE Directive 2002/96/EC
[X] CE Mark LV Directive 73/23 EEC
Note: Genz Benz and Shenandoah are registered trademarks of Genz Benz Enclosures, Inc.
REV 1
7811 E. Pierce Street, Scottsdale, AZ 85257
PH: 480-941-0705 FAX: 480-946-2412
www.genzbenz.com
8
Loading...