Quilter Steeliare Owner's Manual

Pedal Steel Amplification

Owner’s Manual

© 2014 Quilter Labs, LLC. All Rights Reserved

Quilter and the Quilter logo are trademarks of Quilter Laboratories, LLC

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

1 – Read and keep these instructions.
2 – Heed all warnings and follow all instructions.
3 – WARNING: To prevent fire or electric shock, do not expose this equipment to rain or
moisture. Do not use this apparatus near water.
4 – Clean only with a dry cloth.
5 – Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other
apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
6 – 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 plug has two blades and a
grounding prong. The wide blade or third prong are provided for your safety. If the
provided plug does not fit your outlet, consult an electrician for the replacement of the
obsolete outlet.
7– Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly plugs,
convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
8 – Unplug the apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
9 – The appliance coupler (or attachment plug) is the mains disconnect device and should
remain readily accessible when amplifier is in use.
10 – Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the
apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as 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.

11

– This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this
device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause
undesired operation.
12 – Changes or modifications made by the user that are not expressly approved by the
manufacturer may void your authority to operate the amplifier.

Explanation of symbols

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 humans.

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

CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE
THE COVER. NO USER–SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO
QUALIFIED PERSONNEL.

WARNING: To prevent fire or electric shock, do not expose this equipment
to rain or moisture.

1

The Quilter Steelaire Combo Amplifier

New Tools for a New Generation

The Steelaire combines a high output 15-inch speaker and a full
200 watts power plant to provide new levels of richness and clarity for
the steel guitar player and all musicians desiring a big, clean sound. The
Steelaire is highly adjustable, allowing the musician to dial in a highly
personal sound. Please consult this manual to obtain the best results.

Six settings may be remote controlled using an optional Quilter
footswitch or clip-on leg switch.

Our goal at Quilter Labs is to use the latest power technology to
maximize warmth and dynamics without the weight and drawbacks of
classic tube technology.

No shortcuts have been taken in the design and manufacturing. Every
component and circuit is selected solely on the basis of superior results.
Where advanced design or premium components significantly boost
performance, we have made the investment. Costs are kept as low as
possible using a well-managed high volume production process.

The result is a serious professional tool with performance that meets or
beats handmade amps costing and weighing several times as much.

The Steelaire delivers a sweet smooth tone, with excellent midrange
clarity and a vivid high end. In contrast to our more British-type guitar
amps, the overall effect is a very American sound -- big and smooth with
lots of power.

We hope you enjoy your new amplifier. May it give you many
years of flawless service and provide a source of inspiration
and creativity.

Carton Contents:

• 1 Quilter Steelaire Amplifier set

• 1 IEC AC Power Cord

• 9V power cord set for effects loop pedals

• 1 Dust Cover

• 1 Owner’s Manual

2

AMPLIFIER INPUT SECTION AND MODE SET-UP

The Steelaire supports active or passive steel guitar volume pedals. An
adjustable gain boost may be preset for one instrument. The amp may
also be used with two different instruments, either separately or at the
same time. LEDs above each channel indicate the status of the MODE
switch. 9V power at the effects loop supports “hard wiring” of delay and
chorus pedal effects.

CH1 INPUT:

Set MODE to CH 1. Use GAIN 1 to control volume.

• TIP: CH 1 also flows into CH 2 unless a separate signal is connected

to CH 2. Therefore GAIN 2 can be used as an alternate gain preset for
CH 1, selected by the MODE switch or the remote footswitch.

• TIP: MODE 1+2 connects both GAIN controls in series, for extra

volume.

CH 2 INPUT:

Set MODE to CH 2. Use GAIN 2 to control volume.

• TIP: Plugging into CH 2 disconnects the feed from CH 1. This allows

the MODE switch to select between two instruments, each with their
own gain setting.

• TIP: MODE 1+2 connects both instruments simultaneously.

3

POPULAR AMPLIFIER SETUPS

STEEL GUITAR, ACTIVE VOLUME PEDAL:

Connect between guitar and CH 1, and set MODE to CH 1. Set volume
with GAIN 1. (CH 2 remains available for a second instrument).

• TIP: GAIN 1 will normally remain clean up to about “8”. Some

overdrive may occur on “10” (see LIMITER section below).

• TIP: GAIN 2 can be preset for a second volume level, and selected

either with the MODE switch, or the footswitch.

• TIP: Selecting MODE 1+2 places both GAINS in series, allowing for

large amounts of overdrive (see MASTER VOLUME section, P6).

STEEL GUITAR, PASSIVE VOLUME PEDAL:

The original method of inserting a passive pedal between guitar and CH
1 is easy, but slightly reduces high frequency response. Active pedals
include a buffer to preserve high frequencies, but require a power supply.

USE CH 1 TO BUFFER A PASSIVE PEDAL:

Connect the guitar directly to CH1 IN, connect PEDAL SEND to the
pedal’s input, and connect the pedal’s output to CH2 IN (Pedal Return).
Set MODE to CH 2. Use GAIN 2 to set volume.

• TIP: GAIN 1 is inactive when using CH 2 MODE.

• TIP: To obtain an adjustable volume boost in this configuration,

select MODE 1+2, use GAIN 1 to set “normal” volume and set GAIN 2
for the desired “boosted” volume. Control GAIN2 with the
footswitch.

USING A SECOND INSTRUMENT:

Connect the steel guitar (or other first instrument) to CH1 IN, and set its
volume with GAIN 1. Select with the MODE switch as usual.

Connect the second instrument to CH2 IN, and use GAIN 2 to set
volume. Select using the MODE switch as desired.

• TIP: The MUTE MODE allows cables to be unplugged without noises.

• TIP: The footswitch BOOST button adds a treble boost to brighten

up the alternate instrument if desired. Great for 6-string guitars!

• TIP: MODE 1+2 allows both instruments to be played at once.

4

TONE CONTROLS: “BASS, BODY, BARK, and BITE”

Four active EQ controls support a wide range of tone adjustments. The
amplifier has a naturally bright, clean sound with ”flat” EQ settings on “5”,
but you should freely use the controls to get the sound you desire.

BASS controls the “weight” of the sound (50-150Hz). Many steel guitar
players increase the bass somewhat to add fullness and compensate for
the treble pickups used in typical pedal steels. The Steelaire has the
headroom and speaker capacity to accept a substantial bass boost
without “bottoming out”.

LO-MID (“BODY”) controls the “chesty” register (500Hz). Many classic
amps “scooped out” this frequency range to reduce stress and “clutter”
while keeping bass and treble frequencies. The Steelaire speaker handles
these rich low-mid frequencies with clarity and definition.

HI-MID (“BARK”) controls the “presence” register (2kHz). Boosting these
frequencies may increase “cut-thru” to the point of pain; reductions can
temper an undesirably “forward” or clattery tone.

TREB (“BITE”) controls the “sparkle” frequencies (5kHz), adding chime
and sizzle, or taking the edge off when reduced.

• TIP: Experiment with the EQ controls while playing a full-range

chord, then play moving tones to confirm the effect.

5

LIMITER AND TREMOLO SECTION

The LIMITER may be set up to prevent overdrive distortion and increase
sustain. The TREMOLO has a widely adjustable depth and rate. Both
effects are controlled by respective footswitch buttons.

SETTING UP THE LIMITER

The LIMITER acts as a dynamic volume control that intervenes only if the
signal level exceeds a certain point. It is calibrated so that 50% will
prevent overdrive in most cases. To establish this level and hear the
effect, first turn the MASTER down to a very low level for safe testing.
Then, increase the input GAIN until you hear distortion on loud peaks.
Then increase the LIMITER and note how it reduces only the loud peaks
to prevent distortion.

• TIP: Setting LIMITER at “2”or “3” will allow some overdrive , for those

who want a little bit of grit or a “rolling boil” for lead passages.

• TIP: Setting the LIMITER higher than “5” will cause it to intervene

sooner, allowing sustain to occur well below the point of overload.

• TIP: Once you have experimentally determined the “sweet spot”

combination of GAIN and LIMITER, then use the MASTER to set your
overall volume as desired. If you want maximum clean headroom,
and only want the LIMITER to prevent unintentional distortion, leave
it on “5” and set the MASTER at “10”. You will rarely if ever play loud
enough to trigger limiting, but it will be there if needed.

6

REVERB and MASTER SECTIONS

The REVERB control sets the depth or amount of reverb. The DWELL
regulates how long the decay lasts, from a short “donk” to a lengthy
“heavenly choir”. The TONE ranges from dark and mellow on the left to
bright and splashy on the right. The reverb section is controlled by its
own footswitch button.

MASTER VOLUME AND OVERDRIVE SET-UP

Although the Steelaire is designed for musicians needing maximum
clean headroom, the amp can “rock out” when called for. Like any classic
amp, high GAIN settings, especially when selecting MODE 1+2, will
produce increasing amounts of overdrive distortion, with the same
natural tube-like dynamics as other Quilter amps. Reducing the MASTER
volume allows these tones to be used at reasonable loudness levels.

• TIP: For maximum clean headroom, use full MASTER and moderate

GAIN settings.

• TIP: For more overdrive, use lower MASTER and higher GAIN settings.

If desired, temper the overdrive using the LIMITER as described
above.

• TIP: when exploring the dynamics of the amp, use low MASTER

settings. Once a “sweet spot” is established, use the MASTER to set
overall loudness.

7

REAR PANEL – AC POWER, SPEAKERS

International Power Supply

The Steelaire can be used on all known worldwide AC voltages
(100-250V), which allows you to play just about anywhere on the planet.

Locking IEC Power Cord

The power cord that comes with your amplifier
is designed to lock into the AC inlet to reduce
the chance it will come unplugged during use.

Press the yellow button on the cord to release
it. Any normal 3-prong IEC cord may also be used with the amplifier.
Always ensure that the ground contact is intact on both the cord and
receptacle.

Speaker Outputs

The Steelaire comes with the internal speaker
plugged into the INT SPEAKER output. An
external 4-8 ohm speaker may be used in
place of the internal speaker by unplugging
this cable and connecting the external
speaker.

To use two speaker cabinets simultaneously, connect a 4-8 ohm
extension speaker with a minimum of 200 watts continuous power
handling to the EXT SPEAKER output and a 4-8 ohm cabinet (or the
internal speaker) to the INT SPEAKER output. Circuitry adjusts the output
impedance to split the power between the two outputs.

CAUTION: the amplifier can deliver up to 300 watts peak, well beyond the
capacity of most single speakers. We recommend Quilter extension
cabinets with power tested speakers. Quilter Labs will not be liable for
damage to other speakers.

8

EFFECTS LOOP, FOOTSWITCH, DIRECT OUTPUT
Effects Loop

The SEND jack outputs at 1V full scale
which aligns with consumer and pro
effects. The RETURN jack interrupts the
internal signal, and returns the effects

output directly to the power amplifier.
The 9VDC OUT jack will power one or two typical pedals, which may be
left connected and secured inside the amplifier. The combined current
ratings must not exceed 200ma. The FX LOOP switch on the remote
controller will bypass or enable the pedal(s).

• TIP: The Effects Loop is best suited for “enhancement” devices such

as delay, reverb, and chorus. “Overdrive” pedals should be used
between the guitar and amplifier.

• TIP: The footswitch “FX LOOP” position bypasses the OUTPUT of the

effect chain, but signals still flow INTO the effect chain, possibly
building up reverb or echo trains which will be heard when the loop
is activated.

Footswitch Jack

The remote controller (or footswitch) connects with the
supplied cable. Both jacks on the foot controller are wired
identically, so you can plug into either one. A standard
network cable with RJ-45 connectors may be used as an

emergency replacement or if you need a longer cable.

Direct Output

The isolated direct output connects the overall sound of
the amp to a mixing board or external powered
loudspeakers without using a microphone. The signal
level is isolated and comparable with an amplifier mic,
and is derived from the actual signal across the speaker,
to preserve as much of the tone quality as possible.

Internal equalization produces the same tone quality

through a full-range console as the internal single-cone driver.

9

STEELAIRE RACK MOUNT CABINET SYSTEM

Removing the Rack
Mount Head

Unplug the cords and clear
them from the access slots
behind the amp, taking care
not to drop them on the
speaker. Remove the knurled
thumbscrew and slide the
amp out the back. Replace
the thumbscrew for safe
keeping. The amp may be
rack mounted or set on its
rubber feet.

10

Caring For Your Amplifier

Clean the outer surfaces with a clean, damp cloth or vacuum with a soft
brush. Never use any abrasives, harsh cleaners or solvents.

The Steelaire amplifier is manufactured with high quality components
using modern industrial processes that greatly reduce production
defects. Each amplifier goes through an intensive testing process before
it leaves the factory ensuring that your amplifiers will give you years of
flawless service. There are no user-serviceable parts inside the amplifier.
Any repairs should be performed by a trained service professional.

Always use the amplifier in a well-ventilated environment and protect
from external heat sources such as furnaces or direct sunlight.

Prolonged high-volume playing causes heat buildup in the speaker
which reduces its working lifetime. If you find it necessary to consistently
use the amp at full volume, we recommend using an extension speaker
to prolong speaker life and improve sound coverage.

Specifications

Amplifier Module

Specifications

Power Output: 200 watts, 4-8 ohms
AC Power Req.: 100–240Vac, 50–60 Hz, 250 W
Input
Connections:

INSTR-1: ¼" mono

INSTR-2: ¼" mono
Input Impedance: INSTR 1 or 2: 2M ohms
Effects Loop: Output: ¼" mono, 1V FS (-10dB), 1K ohms

Input: ¼" mono, 50K ohms
Speaker 1 Output: 4 ohms, 200 W minimum rating
Speaker 2 Output: 4-8 ohms, 200 W minimum rating
Rack Mount Dims: 2RU, 7.75” (19.7cm) deep, 7.2 lbs (3.3Kg)

Cabinet and Speaker

Speaker: Custom voiced 15” Eminence, neo magnet, 3” voice coil,

300W rating, in open-back cabinet
Cabinet
Dimensions:
(H x W x D)

Combo cabinet: 21 x 23 x 9 in (53.4 x 58.4 x 22.9 cm)

Rack Mount cabinet: 23 x 21 x 10.5 in (48.4 x 53.4 x 26.7cm)

Handle and feet add 0.75 in (2cm) top and bottom.
Weight: 35 lbs. (16 Kg)

Note: Power ratings are provided by the loudspeaker manufacturer and are only a
guideline when selecting a suitable speaker. Quilter Labs qualifies our speaker
selections using a lengthy full power test that ensures that the speaker can

withstand the maximum power output of our amplifiers

.

11

Troubleshooting

Symptom

Action

No power, no lights

• Ensure that the AC cord is fully seated and connected

to a live source.

• Check the AC source by trying another device such as

a lamp.
Amp shuts off then after a
short time, turns back on

• Automatic thermal protection is activating. Reduce

the volume at least 30% and keep the amplifier out of

direct sunlight or tightly enclosed spaces.
No audio (using a guitar)

• Check the MODE switch: confirm that the yellow LED

over the intended channel is illuminated.

• Confirm that the MASTER control and the correct

GAIN 1 or 2 controls are turned up.

• Ensure the guitar plug is inserted fully at each end.

• Try using a different guitar cable.

• Check that the pickup selector switch and volume on

the guitar are set correctly.

• Remove any cables from the RETURN jack of the

Effects Loop. If this corrects the problem, check the

effects-chain for a faulty connection.

• Ensure that the rear panel speaker plug is fully

inserted into the INT SPEAKER jack.
MODE switch operates
backwards

• Confirm the footswitch setting. The footswitch can

reverse the MODE setting.
Limiter, Tremolo, or
Reverb don’t work

• Confirm the footswitch setting.

• All effects are active with footswitch unplugged.

Reverb tone is too dark or
bright

• Adjust the reverb TONE control.

Reverb sound has too
much “echo”

• Adjust the DWELL control

The signal level is slowly
surging.

• Check the tremolo effect, and increase the RATE for a

more rapid pulsation.

• Check that the TREM control is set to its minimum

position if this sound is undesired.
Background hum

• Ensure the guitar plug is fully inserted.

• Try using a different guitar cable. Make sure it is

properly shielded.

• Connect AC powered accessories to the same

receptacle as the amplifier to avoid ground loops.

If the hum goes away when you turn down the guitar:

• Single coil pickups can be a source of hum, especially

if near RF sources like light dimmers or neon lights.

Some guitars have a mode where two pickups are in

reverse polarity to each other. This mode can often

reduce hum.

• Check that the guitar’s cavities are well shielded.

12

Factory Service

To return an amplifier to Quilter Labs for service under the warranty
policy, please visit www.quilterlabs.com and fill out the Return Request
Form. If you do not have access to the website, you may send a request
by letter to Quilter Labs at 1700 Sunflower, Suite A, Costa Mesa, CA

92626. Please include the serial number of the amplifier and a copy of
your sales receipt. Instructions on how to send your amplifier will be
provided.

Do not attempt to open the amplifier and service it yourself. Any attempt
to service the amplifier by a non-authorized service technician may void
your warranty.

Excessive noise

• At high gain settings, some audible hiss or whoosh is

normal.

• Check your cables, guitar and other effects in the

signal chain.
Amp sounds garbled at all
volumes

• Check speaker by temporarily trying an external

speaker. Caution: reduce MASTER volume until sound

level has been confirmed.
Desire clean tone, getting
too much overdrive

• Turn down the GAIN control and turn up MASTER.

• Confirm that MODE is not on 1+2.

• Turn up LIMITER.

Desire overdrive tone, not
getting enough overdrive

• Turn down MASTER until the desired overdrive is

obtained, then reset to desired loudness.

• Turn up GAIN, and/or use MODE 1+2, until overdrive

is obtained.

• Set LIMITER on zero (or bypass with footswitch).

• Turn up guitar volume.

• Try higher output pickups.

Tone sounds “dull” with
no high frequencies

• Confirm EQ settings.

• Check your guitar’s tone controls.

Amplifier Requires Service

If any of the below occur, immediately unplug the amplifier and refer to a service
technician.

• Amplifier emits smoke

• Amplifier is dropped or chassis is dented or bent

• Liquid has been spilled into the amplifier

• Loose parts inside the amplifier are heard

• AC breaker trips

13

LIMITED TRANSFERABLE WARRANTY

IMPORTANT: PLEASE READ THIS DOCUMENT COMPLETELY. IT CONTAINS IMPORTANT
INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS, AS WELL AS LIMITATIONS AND
EXCLUSIONS THAT MAY OR MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU. BY ACCEPTING DELIVERY OF THE
PRODUCT(S), YOU AGREE TO BE BOUND BY AND ACCEPT THESE TERMS AND CONDITIONS.

Quilter Laboratories, LLC (Quilter Labs) guarantees its products to be free from defective
material and/or workmanship and will replace defective parts and repair malfunctioning
products under this warranty when the defect occurs under normal installation and use—
provided the unit is returned to our factory via pre-paid transportation with a copy of proof
of purchase (i.e. sales receipt). This warranty provides that the examination of the return
product must indicate, in our judgment, a manufacturing defect. This warranty does not
extend to any product which has been subjected to misuse, neglect, accident, or where the
date code or serial number has been defaced or removed. Quilter Labs shall not be liable for
incidental and/or consequential damages. This warranty gives you specific legal rights.

This limited warranty is freely transferable during the term of the warranty period. The
warranty on Quilter products is NOT VALID if the products have been purchased from an
unauthorized dealer/online e-tailer, or if the factory serial number has been removed,
defaced, or replaced in any way.

Customers may have additional rights, which vary from state to state or from country to
country. In the event that a provision of this limited warranty is void, prohibited or
superseded by local laws, the remaining provisions shall remain in effect. The Quilter Labs
limited warranty in the United States is valid for a period of three (3) years from date of
purchase except that footswitches, covers, cabinets, handles, and cabinet hardware are
warranted for a period of one (1) year and speakers, and all other included accessory
products for a period of ninety (90) days from date of purchase.

IMPORTANT: PLEASE RETAIN YOUR SALES RECEIPT OR ONLINE ORDER RECORD, AS IT IS
YOUR PROOF OF PURCHASE COVERING YOUR LIMITED WARRANTY. TO TRANSFER THE
WARRANTY TO A SUBSEQUENT PURCHASER, YOU MUST ENDORSE THE SALE OF THE
PRODUCT TO THE SUBSEQUENT PURCHASER ON THE FRONT OF THE SALES RECEIPT. THIS
LIMITED WARRANTY IS VOID WITHOUT SUCH ENDORSED SALES RECEIPT.

Defective products that qualify for coverage under this warranty will be repaired or
replaced, (at Quilter Labs’ discretion) with a like or comparable product, without charge. To
receive warranty service, return the complete product to Quilter Labs, LLC, with proof of
purchase, during the applicable warranty period. The Quilter Labs Dealer from whom you
purchased your product may also be authorized for warranty service and should be the first
point of contact when service is required. TRANSPORTATION COSTS ARE NOT INCLUDED IN
THIS LIMITED WARRANTY. Any repair or service performed by any person or entity other
than an Authorized Quilter Labs Electronics Service Center is not covered by this limited
warranty.

Other questions regarding this warranty can be answered by calling
[phone] or by contacting your authorized Quilter distributor.
Email: [e-mail]

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 receiver

•

Connect the product 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.

Quilter Laboratories, LLC

1700 Sunflower, Suite A

Costa Mesa, CA 92626

[phone]

www.quilterlabs.com

P/N 000485 Rev. D