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INTRODUCTION:
The SS-20 guitar preamp is intended for use in studio and live performances. The
principle and the motto of this device: it is the TUBE that sounds in
SS-20, but the transistors do their best to make it sound in all its
beauty and originality not by limiting but helping the TUBE! In order to
make tube drivers fully open under the "hottest" conditions they need huge
amplitude - a hundred and more volts.
The dynamic behavior characteristic to authentic tube preamps have been realized
in SS-20 due to the omission of op amp which normally limits the signal in the
preliminary amplification sector to 20 – 250 V, and application of special drivers
capable of up to 250V amplitude and possessing the nonlinearity similar to 12АХ7
triode. In this way we have managed to realize the complete delivery of guitar signal
avoiding usual hybrid "stiffness" as well as to give SS-20 its peculiar characteristic
sound.
The special attention was given to the clean channel - there we also tried to provide
the maximum guitar signal dynamics simultaneously forming soft "nonlinearity"
inherent in vacuum triodes drivers. It also allowed us to avoid both "stiffness" and
"refinement" which are often found in hybrid devices having CLEAN-channel.
When building the internal preamp structure we were guided by the principle of
maximum use of amplification and nonlinear transformation of the tube sector of the
device. Thus, the semi-conductor part of a hybrid practically does not participate in
limitation process (except for preamp use in LEAD mode with Gain LEAD level of
over 7) and the entire spectrum is formed by the tube part of the preamp.
Architecture and features of SS-20 guitar pedal:
9Unique hybrid circuitry.
9Two full-potential channels: CLEAN and DRIVE with the possibility of DRIVE
channel operating in two basic modes: the mode of moderate sensitivity
(CRUNCH), the mode of high sensitivity (LEAD).
9CLEAN channel has a separate tone-volume controls unit and adjustments of
sensitivity and output level.
9DRIVE channel has separate tone-volume controls and adjustments of
sensitivity and output level.
9Sequential break (LOOP).
9Possibility of operation with specialized guitar amplifiers (OUTPUT) and mixers
or linear power amplifiers (OUTCAB.S.).
LEAD channel is designed for modern, extremely aggressive sounds for players
who use both standard and lowered tuning. Carefully calculated spectral and tone
balances of the channel are good for modern “punch” and bright flageolets and
extreme readability fast licks. Thus, the channel can be used both for aggressive
rhythm parts and for brightly outlined solos.
CRUNCH channel is distinguished by lesser overall sensitivity but possesses high
universality. The user can choose using PRE-EQ switch for one of the three variants
of preliminary signal correction having different tone balance between the lowest and
highest frequencies which allows to use the channel both for "rhythm" and "solo".
The wide adjustment range of sensitivity in combination with expanded possibilities
of target tone adjustments results in the sound starting from light airy crunch to
dense and bright Lead channel-like heavy sounding.
CLEAN channel is designed for classical clean sound with graceful light limitation in
the mode of the maximum sensitivity and crystal cleanliness and brightness within
the zone of moderate sensitivity value. It has separate controls of sensitivity and
output level.
Before you start:
For the purpose of transportation the device was carefully packed by the
manufacturer. However, if cardboard packaging is damaged, it is necessary to check
the device for the presence of external damages.
¾In case of damages do not send the device to us, but inform the
seller and transport agency since otherwise you lose the right
to damage compensation.
¾In order to avoid damages during storage and transportation
always use original packaging.
¾Do not allow children to play with the device and packaging
materials.
¾Please recycle all packaging materials in the way harmless to
environment.
¾In order to avoid the device overheating provide sufficient air
flow, do not cover and do not place it near other heat-
generating devices.
¾Operating the device next to powerful radio transmitters and
sources of high-frequency signals can lead to significant sound
distortion. In this case increase the distance between the
device and the transmitter and use the screened cables for all
interconnections.
WARNING!
Please be aware that high sound volume can harm your hearing
and / or to damage the speakers of your PA system. Before
switching the device on turn the controls "Volume" into
extreme left position (counter-clockwise). Always try to adhere
to moderate level of volume.
Specifications:
Use only auxiliary devices and accessories
recommended by the manufacturer.
Tubes
12AX7 (ECC-83) 1
INPUT
Impedance 1,0 МOhm
Sensitivity -10dB
RETURN
Impedance 1,0 МOhm
Sensitivity -10dB
OUTPUT
Output impedance 10кOhm
Output signal level 0dB (0,775V)
OUT CAB.S.
Output impedance 10кOhm
Output signal level -10dB
SEND
Output impedance 10кOhm
Output signal level -10dB
Power supply
Voltage DC 12V
Current 0,5A
Power adapter
Voltage DC 12V
Current 1,0A
Dimensions / Weight
NET dimensions (WхHхD). Without
power adapter. 119х57х103 mm
NET weight without power adapter 0,52 kg
GROSS dimensions (WхHхD). About 206х83х140mm.
GROSS weight About 0,78 kg
