Genz-Benz GBE 600 Musical Instrument Amplifier User Manual


 
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Fan Switch The GBE-600 is a fan cooled high powered rack mount device. A 2 speed rear panel
mounted “fan switch” is provided to allow the reduction of fan speed and corresponding fan noise during
recording and low power playing. Operating the fan at high speed is recommended anytime the amplifier
is driving 2 ohms, 4 ohms at high levels, high ambient temperatures and when the “thermal” LED illumi-
nates, indicating a reduction of thermal headroom.
Direct Output The GBE-600 includes a studio quality, fully active transformerless balanced “direct
output”, with “pre-post equalization switch”.
With the “pre/post switch” in the “pre” position, the direct output receives its signal directly from the pre-
amp input buffer amplifier with no tonal modifications. This is a pre gain control, pre eq output, with the
best signal to noise ratio. Most recording and sound reinforcement companies will want to use this posi-
tion since changes you make to your stage sound will not affect this output.
With the “pre/post switch” in the “post” position, the direct output receives its signal from the output of
the 5 band equalizer. This feature allows for additional flexibility in some situations, but is often not de-
sired for recording or live sound reinforcement.
A “ground lift switch” is provided which opens pin 1 (shield) on the direct output to prevent ground loops.
Use the position that results in a minimum of noise.
The output level is nominal line level (adjustable between -50 and -10 dB), pin 2 hot. This output is fully
protected from the effects of phantom power provided by the mixing console and does not require phan-
tom power to operate.
Output Jacks The GBE-600 features 2 standard 1/4” speaker jacks plus 2 Neutrik ™“Speakon” NL-4
connectors. Minimum recommended total load impedance is 2 ohms provided adequate ventilation for
the heatsink area is provided. The “Speakon” is wired using pins 1+ and 1-, pins 2+ and 2- are not con-
nected.
Foot Switches The GBE-600 is fitted with jacks for 2 different types of footswitch. The 2 button foot-
switch controls “channel switch” and “channel mix” functions. Any standard latching 2 button footswitch
with TIP-RING-SLEEVE connector will work, provided there are no LEDs in the switching path. The 4
button footswitch uses a 5 pin “DIN” connector and controls the “mute” and “shape filters”. This foot-
switch is unique to Genz Benz due to the complex nature of the functions and must be factory supplied.
GENERAL SAFETY INFORMAT ION
Power is supplied to the amplifier through an IEC type detachable cord set with a mains connector, fuse
holder and internationally rated 115/230 Volts - 50/60 Hz toroidal power transformer. For our interna-
tional touring players, an external mains line voltage switch is provided, with a fuse size chart printed on
the rear of the unit denoting the power supply configuration and fuse size that the unit has been rated
for. International IEC type cord-sets are available for a variety of international power supply sockets.
The main’s fuse (and a spare) is located in a slid-out drawer in the bottom half of the IEC connector.
Common sense (as well as the law) dictates that you do not operate the unit where it will be exposed to
moisture or rain, excessive ambient heat (over 115 degrees F / 40 degrees C) or without a properly
grounded A.C. power source. Never remove the ground pin from the A.C. power connector.
Ventilation is required to keep this amplifier from overheating. Do not block air flow over heat-sinks at
the rear of the unit.