Hughes & Kettner ATTAX User Manual

3-CHANNEL

GUITAR PREAMPLIFIER

Hughes & Kettner Musical Instruments

Telefon

GmbH

Magdeburgerstr.6 6690

51)20

(068

21

Telefax(068

St.Wendel

51)4886

WE AT HUGHES &
YOU ON YOUR CHOICE OF THE

The HUGHES & KETTNER ATTAX preamp is designed to meet the rigorous demands

placed on contemporary musicians: superior sound quality, flexibility, and user­friendly operating define the ATTAX as a valuable tool in your quest for the ultimate
sound.

The streamlined operating and control concept enables you to immediately dial in

hot sounds. No fuss, no endless knob twiddling.This Operator’s Manual introduces

you to the

3 CHANNELS - THE STANDARD OF THE
The ATTAX features three separate channels: One solid state CLEAN for vintage and

contemporary clean tones. The two tube channels, CRUNCH and LEAD, are carefully

tuned for a broad overdrive spectrum, from a slight crunch to heavy duty shred.

TWO EFFECTS LOOPS!

The ATTAX features two separate loops for effects/multi-effects devices: a standard

MONO FX LOOP with SEND and RETURN jacks and a STEREO LOOP with a SEND

and two RETURN jacks (Left/Right).

ATTAX's

KETTNER

features and options.

WOULD LIKE TO CONGRATULATE

ATTAX PREAMP!

90's

STEREO SETUP

The output, effect, and master sections feature stereo circuits enabling stereo setups,

o. g. with a stereo power amp and two cabinets. Stereo effects processors can be

added through the STEREO LOOP for optimum effects utilization.

FREQUENCY-CORRECTED RECORDING OUT JACKS

The two Recording Out jacks feature frequency-corrected signal paths that simulate

the sound of a miked 4 x

situations, and on stage DI to the mixer.

MIDI

-

THE ULTIMATE CONTROL FEATURE!

The MIDI option requires no soldering. Installation is simple, and offers the ATTAX

user all the comfort of MIDI capabilities. All three channels and the effects loop can
be called via MIDI program change messages.

We hope you have fun and enjoy success with your ATTAX!

-

NO PROBLEM!

12"

cabinet, an ideal tool for home recording, studio

THE SOLID STATE CLEAN CHANNEL
This channel utilizes innovative solid state circuitry that is capable of producing

warm, dynamic vintage tones, as well as contemporary,
The HUGHES
tube amp at high volumes, except that you don’t have to alienate your neighbors to
get that warm tone. It “feels” like a vintage amp; the preamp’s dynamics and response
are true to classic tube performance criteria.

&

KETTNER “SOFT CLICK” circuitry delivers the soft clip of a vintage

hi-fi

clean sounds.

ATTAX CRUNCH
The ATTAX CRUNCH tube channel covers the tonal spectrum from clean to

overdrive. The emphasis on attack response in this channel enables you to control
overdrive levels with your guitar’s volume pot. At higher gain settings, your tone is

carried by lengthy sustain ideal for a singing blues tone with superior dynamic punch.

AT-TAX LEAD
The LEAD channel’s extreme gain reserves deliver the distinct performance character-

istics of modified tube amps: fat, searing tube overdrive at any volume, ideal for
modern lead playing and heavy-duty power chord chunk.

v

SELECTING THE THREE CHANNELS: CLEAN / CRUNCH / LEAD

Channel switching is executed via the switch on the FRONT PANEL or the

included STAGEBOARD.

The CLEAN /TUBE SWITCH (5) activates either the SOLID STATE (CLEAN channel),
or the TUBE

The CRUNCH /TUBE SWITCH (12) activates either the CRUNCH or LEAD channel
in the tube section.

An LED DESIGNATES the currently ACTIVE CHANNEL.:

-

THE VINTAGE TUBE CHANNEL

-

HOT-RODDED HEAVY TUBE OVERDRIVE

(

CRUNCH/LEAD ) sections.

CLEAN

= GREEN, CRUNCH = YELLOW, LEAD = RED

1. INPUT
1/4"

instrument input jack.

( M )

MIDI LEARN

MIDI OPTION installation is a prerequisite to MIDI capability. Upon MIDI OPTION

installation, press the MIDI LEARN BUTTON on the ATTAX'a front panel to save the
current sound/effect parameter settings. Installation is a matter of just a few minutes, it
requires no soldering. Talk to your HUGHES & KETTNER DEALER for the details.

2. (CLEAN ) VOLUME
Regulates the CLEAN channel’s volume. Depending on your instrument’s pickups, a

setting of 7

3. GREEN CLEAN LED

The GREEN LED illuminates when the solid state

/

4. CLEAN

The THREE-BAND, PASSIVE VOICING section defines the
teristics in the CLEAN channel. Precise tuning and balance of filter frequencies enable
you to quickly and efficiently dial in diverse sounds.

v

SETTING VOICING PARAMETERS

Dial in the standard setting (BASS, MID, TREBLE in the 12 o’clock position), and then
modify the settings to suit your requirements.

BASS / TREBLE

BUTTON

-

8 is the clip threshold (SOFT CLICK).

(

CLEAN ) section is active.

ATTAX's

tonal charac-

5. CLEAN

Activates either the SOLID STATE ( CLEAN channel

(

CRUNCH and LEAD channels).

6. CRUNCH GAIN

The CRUNCH GAIN POT regulates the CRUNCH channel’s input sensitivity. Try
different settings to achieve everything from ultra-clean sound to vintage tube
overdrive.

/

TUBE SELECTOR SWITCH

),

or the TUBE SELECTION

7. CRUNCH LED
The YELLOW LED illuminates when the CRUNCH channel is active.

8. LEAD GAIN
The LEAD GAIN pot regulates the amount of disortion in the tube preamp’s LEAD

channel. The intensity of the compression effect inherent in tube technology increases
parallel to the amount of overdrive.

9. LEAD LED
The RED LED illuminates when the LEAD channel is active.

10. CRUNCH AND LEAD TUBE CHANNELS VOICING SECTION

The two tube channels’ tone controls are a combination of active and passive circuits
designed to respond in a more musical manner. For instance, the active bass filters
provide mid-range characteristics and provides additional presence (without
unnecessary bending of frequency bands). The voicing section follows the tube
section in the amp’s circuitry.

v

SETTING VOICING PARAMETERS

Dial in the standard setting (BASS, MID, TREBLE in the 12 o’clock position), and then
modify the settings to suit your requirements.

In addition to the tree channel’s respective VOLUME and/or GAIN controls, the
CRUNCH and LEAD channels each incorporate a MASTER control (CRUNCH
MASTER

/

LEADMASTER). The overall output of the ATTAX is defined via the STEREO

MASTER VOLUME knob (15). These features allow for an optimum volume balance
between the three channels, an essential feature for gigs.

11. CRUNCHMASTER

Regulates the CRUNCH channel’s volume in relation to the CLEAN and LEAD
channel’s respective volumes.

12. CRUNCH

/

LEAD SELECTOR SWITCH

Activates either the ATTAX's CRUNCH or LEAD channel.

page

5

13. LEADMASTER

Regulates the LEAD channel’s volume in relation to CLEAN and CRUNCH channels’
respective volumes.

14.

FX-MIX

The FX MIX pot regulates the original signal’s volume and its relationship to that of
the processed signal, i. e. the one sent from the effects device connected to the
STEREO EFFECTS LOOP. DRY = original signal only, WET = processed signal only.
You can dial in any signal blend between these two extreme settings.

NOTE: If no signal procession is
pot can be used as a master volume. The FX-MIX has no influence on overall
output when it is set to DRY (refer to the “Activating a Second MASTER VOLUME”
paragraph on the following page

connected

).

to the STEREO LOOP, then the FX-MIX

15. MASTER VOL

The

ATTAX's

all outputs.

overall output is defined via the MASTER VOLUME knob. It influences

16. PHONES

1/4"

head phone jack. The PHONES output jack delivers a speaker-simulated signal,

so the

ATTAX

sounds similar to your stage setup at headphone volumes.

17. MAIN SWITCH:

AC mains power switch

18. MAINS

The included Euro-norm mains cable is connected to this socket. Ensure the voltage

selector is set to the correct voltage (refer to the safety guidelines).

19. FUSE

Use a screwdriver to unlock and unscrew the FUSE holder. Ensure replacement fuses’

specifications are identical to the original. The

norm of 230 V.

ATTAX

is factory-set to the European

ATTAX

20.

RECORDING OUT JACKS

The RECORDING OUT jacks deliver a frequency-corrected STEREO SIGNAL,
comparable to a that of a miked 4 x 12” cabinet, ideal for home recording, studio,
and DI-to-mixer applications.

21. MONO FX LOOP

Serial signal path for external effects processors. Connect the ATTAX’S LOOP

RETURN

at the processor.

22.

STEREO FX LOOP

The parallel

(14). The effects signal can be activated via the STAGEBOARD or MIDI messages.

to the device’s OUTPUT jack. The output signal’s dry/wet mix is regulated

STEREO EFFECTS LOOP’s dry/wet mix

is regulated via the

FX MIX pot

Connect the

ATTAX's

LOOP SEND jack to the device’s INPUT, and the

ATTAX's

LOOP LEFT/RIGHT RETURN jacks to the device’s LEFT/RIGHT OUTPUT jacks.

ATTAX

Use the

The LOOP sends a mono signal if only the

TIP 1: You can connect other instruments/sound generation equipment to the

via the STEREO LOOP’S RETURN jacks instead of a signal processor/effects device.
A second guitar, keyboard, drum machine, tape player, etc. can be used for rehearsals

/

practice sessions.

v

Adding a STEREO SIGNAL (tape deck, keyboard, etc.):

l Connect the device’s LEFT /RIGHT OUTPUTS to the ATTAX STEREO LOOP’S

LEFT

l Step on the STAGEBOARD’S FX footswitch (the loop is activated).
l Regulate the device’s volume via the FX MIX pot located on the front panel (to

the left towards DRY =

TIP 2: You

provided you do not connect a signal processor.

v

Activating the additional MASTER VOLUME

l Step on the STAGEBOARD’S FX footswitch (the LED illuminates).
l Dial in a separate MASTER VOLUME setting for the ATTAX via the

the left towards

l You can switch back and forth between the two MASTER VOLUMES via the

FX

footswitch.

STEREO LOOP’S RIGHT RETURN jack for mono signal processors.

RIGHT RETURN jack is connected.

/

RIGHT INPUTS.

volume down, to the right towards WET = volume up).

can also use the loop to activate an additional MASTER VOLUME,

DRY = volume up, to the right towards WET = volume down).

FX

MIX pot (to

ATTAX

Upon MIDI option installation, you can also call MASTER VOLUME changes via MIDI
messages.

23. LINE OUT ( LEFT / RIGHT

)

The two LINE OUT jacks (Left/Right) feed the preamp’s signal to a power amp(s). Use
a single

LINE OUT jack to drive a mono power amp and speaker cabinet.

page 7

24. STAGEBOARD JACK

Connect the included ATTAX STAGEBOARD to this MULTIPIN jack.

Your ATTAX preamp package includes the STAGEBOARD which enables you to
activate the 3 CHANNELS and the STEREO EFFECTS LOOP via footswitches.

NOTE: Ensure the CLEAN /TUBE and CRUNCH

the

FRONT PANEL

STAGEBOARD

A combination of the two operating modes ( footswitch /front panel ) is not
recommended.

QUICK

ACCESS TO THE CHANNELS VIA THE STAGEBOARD.

When you switch from the solid state preamp section to the tube section via the
STAGEBOARD, it is advisable to pre-select the channel via the LEAD /CRUNCH
SELCECTOR SWITCH. You can then switch channels in one motion.

LEDs

are integrated in the STAGEBOARD to give you a clearer picture of the channel

switching status for on-stage applications.

These

LEDs

panel

LEDs

EFFECTS LOOP SWITCHING VIA THE

In addition to channel selection feature, the STAGEBOARD can also be used
activate/deactivate the STEREO EFFECTS LOOP via the FX ON
appropriate LED illuminates when the LOOP is active.

are set to OFF (not

footswitch

tell you

denete the currently active channel.

mode.

which

of the two CRUNCH / LEAD channels is preset. The front

pushed

ATTAX

/

LEAD SELECTOR SWITCHES on

in) when operating the

STAGEBOARD

/

ATTAX

OFF SWITCH. The

in

the

Circuitry:

Channels:

Jacks:

Dimensions:

1 Solid-State CLEAN ,2 Tube preamps CRUNCH / LEAD

CLEAN:

CRUNCH:

LEAD:

Input, Phones, Recording Out ( Left / Right
Stereo Loop ( Send / Return Left - Return Right ), Line Out ( Left / Right
Footswitch.

19” / 1 HU

Volume,

Volume,

Volume,

Bass, Mid, Treble

> Bass, Mid, Treble <

),

Mono Loop ( Send / Return

-

Master Volume

-

Crunch Master

Lead Master

),

),

HUGHES & KETTNER

POWERAMP

E:G: HUGHES & KETTNER CF 200 / VS 250

ATTAX

n._--

,zm.,“.__

----

-&Law-

>

CF 200

Line Out Left Line Out Right

Input Left Input Right

Stereo Speaker Outs

Left

Input

HUGHES & KETTNER
GL 112/GL 212/GL-GR 412

Right

Input

Line Out L /

Recording Out L /

Mono FX Send
Mono FX Return

Stereo Send L
Stereo Return L /

Phones

Stageboard

R

/ R

Poweramp

R

R

Signal for Recording
Studio Applications

Effect
Effect Output

Input L
Output L /

Phones
Stageboard

/

Cabinets

/

Tuner In

/ R

R

/

page

9

The above examples are just hat examples. Your sound is ulimatly dependant on the
type of instrument and the playing style you use. Nevertheless, these settings will
give you a general impression of the ATTAX's sound spectrum.

VOL. BASS MID TREBLE CR. GAIN LEA. GAIN BASS MID TREBLE CFIMAST.~

VOL.

BASS MID TREBLE CR. GAIN LEA.

VOL. BASS MID TREBLE CR.GAlN LEA.GAlN BASS MID TREBLE CR. MAST. LEA. MAST.

I---- -

VOL. BASS MID TREBLE CR. GAIN LEA. GAIN BASS MID TREBLE CR. MAST. LEA. MAST.

GAIN- BASS- AMID

TREBLE CR.

MAST.

CEA.MASY j

LEA.MAST.]

I MPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS!

EFORE CONNECTING,READ INSTRUCTIONS

B
.

Read all of these instructions

.

Save these instructions for later use

.

Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the product

.

Do not use this product near water

.

Do not place this product on an unstable cart, stand or table. The product may

fall, causing serious damage to the product.

.

Slots and openings in the cabinet and the back or bottom are provided for ventilation; to ensure relia­ble operation of the product and to protect it from overheating, these openings must not be blocked or

covered. This product should not be placed in a built-in installation unless proper ventilation is

provided.

.

This product should be operated from the type of power source indicated on the marking label. If you

are not sure of the type of power available, consult your dealer or local power company.

.

This product is equipped with a 3-wire grounding type plug, a plug having a third pin. This plug will

only fit into a grounding-type power outlet. This is a safety feature. If you are unable to insert the plug

into the outlet, contact your electrician to replace your obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the purpose of the

grounding type plug.

.

Do not allow anything to rest on the power cord. Do not locate this product where persons will walk

on the cord.

.

If an extension cord is used with this product make sure that it is a 3-wire grounding- type and that the

total of the amp ere ratings on the products plugged into the extension cord do not exceed the
extension cord ampere rating. Also make sure that the total of all products plugged into the wall outlet
does not exceed 15 amperes.

.

Never push objects of any kind into this product through cabinet slots as may touch dangerous voltage

points or short out parts that could result in risk of fire or electric shock. Never spill liquid of any kind

on the product.

.

Do not attempt to service this product yourself, as opening or removing covers may expose you to

dangerous voltage points or other risks. Refer all servicingto service personnel.

.

Unplug this product from the wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified service personnel under the
following conditions:

w

l When the power cord or plug is damaged or frayed

l If liquid has been spilled into the product

l If the product has been exposed to rain or water

l

If the product does not operate normally when the operating instructions are followed. Adjust only
these controls that are covered by the operating instructions since improper adjustment of other
controls may result in damage and will often require extensive work by a qualified technician to

restore the product to normal operation.

l If the product has been dropped or the cabinet has been damaged

l

If

the product exhibits a distinct change in performance, indicating a need of service! Selection of
power supply cord. Use only a listed detachable power supply cord type SVT or
AWC, 3 conductor, one end configured for NEMA 5-l 5 other end for IEC

l Fuses: For continued protection against risk of fire, replace fuses only with same type and ratings

SJT

320/CEE 22!

minimum 18

TO PREVENT THE RISK OF FIRE AND
MOISTURE OR RAIN. DO NOT OPEN

SHOCK HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO
CASE; NO USER SERVICEABLE

SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.

PARTS INSIDE. REFER

page 12