10. Reverb
The REVERB control sets the overall level of the reverb effect. With the control at
minimum there will be no reverb. Turning it clockwise will increase the amount of reverb.
11. Power Switch
This 3-way miniature toggle switch allows the user to switch between three very
different power output settings:
50W - This is the full power setting which will give the loudest clean headroom. This
is likely to be used for live, stage use.
SAG - This includes a power supply 'sag' which is a form of dynamic compression
that will be most noticeable on loud transients (attack). The overall headroom will be
lower than the 50W setting and the 'feel' will be softer and more 'vintage'. Needs to
be experienced to understand.
2W - This is the low power setting and as suggested reduces the output power way
down to a maximum of 2 watts. This is likely to be used when practising, recording
and at smaller gigs, or when a more overdriven power amp tone is desired.
12. Master
This controls the overall volume of the amplifier through all the following outputs:
SPEAKER OUTPUTS (also dependent on the Power switch setting (11).
D.I. OUTPUT XLR
LINE OUT / PHONES jack
USB AUDIO output
Minimum will be no signal, fully clockwise will be the loudest. (You knew that, right?)
13. STBY Switch
This large toggle Standby switch selects between two different modes:
Position '0' disconnects the main Speaker Outputs therefore there will be no sound
from any connected speaker. It also re-routes the output of the valve power amp
signal to the internal reactive load. This is intended for silent recording use from any of
the CAB RIG speaker simulated outputs. The guitar signal will still be passing through
the whole amp from Input to after the power amp, through the internal reactive load
and CAB RIG. Therefore, the tone remains intact. As the Speaker Outputs themselves
are disconnected in this mode then the unit can be used without being connected to
an external speaker load without worry of damage.
In certain settings there may be a faintly audible amount of 'bleed-through' of
signal to the speaker(s). If this needs to be eliminated completely then it is okay to
disconnect the speaker lead from the rear panel. (Refer to Rear Panel section 4 for
more information.)
Position 'I' will connect the Speaker Outputs, therefore driving the speakers as normal,
and disconnecting the internal reactive load. The signal sent to the CAB RIG DSP will
be from the same point, only now it will be loaded by the external speaker rather than
the internal reactive load.
All the CAB RIG Outputs can be used in either position as required or preferred.
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14. Power Switch
This large toggle switch is used to turn the whole amplifier on and off.
Position '0' is completely off, the same as detaching the mains cable.
Position 'I' is on. Actual functionality will be dependent on other settings, including
STBY and the small Power toggle switch, as well as what is connected to Input and
Speaker Outputs.
When switched on, the front 'BLACKSTAR' logo will light up and inform the band
and audience members of your impeccable taste in choosing this product.
Rear Panel
1. Mains Fuse
The value of the mains fuse is specified on the rear panel. Never use a fuse of the
incorrect value or attempt to bypass it.
2. Mains Input
The supplied detachable mains lead is connected here.
Unusually for valve amplifiers, the St. James products are designed with a universal
input power supply. This means that the mains input range is rated at 100Vac to
240Vac and capable of operating at 50Hz and 60Hz. (We actually test them beyond
these rated limits.)
Therefore, these products can be used anywhere in the world without needing to
adjust anything. Not only will they simply function wherever used, but they will also
be completely consistent in tone and output power, regardless of any changes
or fluctuations in local mains supply. Along with the size and weight benefits, this
makes them ideal for a musician who travels internationally.
3. H.T. Fuse
The value of the H.T. fuse is specified on the rear panel. Never use a fuse of the
incorrect value or attempt to bypass it.
4. Speaker Outputs
The output marked '1 x 16 OHM' is for the connection of a single 16 Ohm extension
speaker cabinet or the internal speaker(s).
The outputs marked '1 x 8 OHM OR 2 x 16 OHM' are for the connection of either a
single 8 Ohm extension cabinet or two 16 Ohm cabinets.
'1x16 Ohm' output
Internal 16 Ohm combo speaker(s)
Internal 16 Ohm combo speaker(s)
X
plus one 16 Ohm extension cab
One 16 Ohm extension cabinet
Two 16 Ohm extension cabinets
X
Single 8 Ohm extension cabinet
X
' 1x8 Ohm or 2x16 Ohm' outputs
X
X
X
X
X
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