Amps And Channels; Front Panel - Hughes & Kettner TriAmp Mark 3 Manual

4 Amps and Channels

The channels of the TriAmp Mark 3 do not just represent different gain
stages. Rather, each of them represents an era of tone. Highly advanced
new switching technology reconfigures the multiple tube stages and the
power amp tubes with each channel or MIDI Preset you select. This
design pulls every drop of tone out of the all-tube circuitry, giving TriAmp
Mark 3 an incredible tonal flexibility.
Channels can be selected on the amp itself or via the included TSM-
432 MIDI board. In order to do this, switch the TSM-432 to Stomp Box
Mode. On this mode, switches 1 to 6 represent the various channels,
while switch 7 controls the Stomp Boost. (The other TSM-432 mode is
Preset Mode, which offers you even more tonal options. See the MIDI
Chapter for more information.)
4.1 Amp 1
Channel A: Sparkling 50s Californian Clean
Channel 1A sounds full and expansive in the great American tradition.
It´s forte is classy clean tone that stays distortion free - even at high gain
settings - and it delivers the kind of twang that'll make you want to break
out the cowboy boots and get your country stomp on! Make no mistake
about it: Channel 1A's low end is big, tight and focused and will more
than satisfy the needs of even the most ardent low-end connoiusseur.
Note: Channel 1A works exceptionally well with both pairs of 6L6s
engaged.
Channel B: Chimey 60s British Clean
Channel 1B produces high class British-approved tones with that
trademark shimmering top end and tremendously subtle harmonic
distortion. Even at lower gain settings, 1B will still serenade you with rich,
musical overtones in the high mids.
Note: Our recommended power amp setting for Channel 1B is the pair
of EL34 tubes.
4.2 Amp 2
Channel A: Classic 70s British Lead
Channel 2A cranks out the scorching overdriven tones that have graced
almost every genre-defining classic rock production. This channel has
an open, British flavor that works fantastically for raw-edged riffing and
aggressive chord work!
Note: If you want to get the sounds you'd expect from a channel of this
nature, select the pair of EL34 tubes. That said, trying this channel with
one (or even two!) pairs of 6L6s is also highly recommended!
Channel B: 'Brown' 80´s British Lead
Channel 2B goes from gritty and fat to singing with days of sustain at the
twist of a knob. So, what's the secret? Well, 2B features a special circuit
that injects a highly desirable sonic additive into your sound – the kind
of power amp distortion that players just couldn't get enough of from
their old Plexis. Rich, loud and full of attitude, it's perfect for two-handed
tapping and huge power chords!
Note: For channel 2B, one pair of EL34 is the right choice to start with.
4.3. Amp 3
Channel A: Classic 90s American High Gain
Channel 3A is honest and direct, its hair-trigger response reacting
instantly to minute changes in your picking attack and the slightest twist
of your guitar's volume knob. Pure and distinct, 3A will preserve your
guitar's own unique sound, and the tone will remain crisp and defined –
no matter how high you set the gain control!
Note: Channel 3A works great with one pair of EL34 combined with one
pair of 6L6.
Channel B: Modern-day High Gain and beyond
Channel 3B pumps out the most merciless high gain sounds you've ever
heard in your life. Drop-tuning devotees and seven and 8-string axe
slingers will swoon at the sound of 3B's hot, huge and downright dirty
distortion! Engage the Stomp Boost for the ultimate response to your
touch, a feeling that the strings are an extension of your fingers and slaves
to your will. Channel 3B greases up your strings, making riffs and licks fly
off the fretboard with consummate ease.
Note: This is a must-try: play Channel 3B with both pairs of 6L6s, and then
kick in the EL34s too!

5 Front Panel

5.1 Power and Standby
Power/On Switch: Flick this switch to On to get the
mains power flowing. The amp lights up, and the tubes
will begin to heat up for the challenges that lie ahead.
Play/Standby Switch: Give the tubes about 30 seconds
to get toasty; then you can flip the Standby switch to
Play. The amp is now ready to rock! When taking a
longer break from playing, flick the switch back to Standby so the tubes
remain at operating temperature. This will help prolong their lifespan.
5.2 Input and Stomp Boost
Input: Instrument input, 1 M-Ohms. Connect your guitar to
this input using a shielded cord equipped with 6.3 mm (1/4")
jack plugs.
Stomp Boost: The Stomp Boost targets specific frequency
ranges in your tone and kicks them up a notch. Depending
on what channel and settings you've got dialed in, the Boost
will yield an even more assertive, creamier, or punchier tone. The Stomp
Boost is located right after the input jack and before the input stage of the
TriAmp Mark 3 – Manual 1.1
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