Carvin X1 User manual

CARVIN ENGINEERING DATA X1 CARVIN ENGINEERING DATA X1 X1 TUBE PREAMP PEDALX1 TUBE PREAMP PEDAL

PG. 2

WARRANTY

This CARVIN AUDIO product is guaranteed in normal use to be free from electrical and mechanical defects for a

period of 1 year from date of purchase. Retain proof of purchase. This warranty is in lieu of any and all other

guarantees or warranties, expressed or implied. There shall be no recovery for any consequential or incidental

damages.

INTRODUCTION

Congratulations on your purchase of the X1 tube

preamp pedal. The X1 is designed to give you real

tube tone with the ability to integrate into nearly any

system. The X1 works as an add-in pedal to your

current setup, or it can be the center of your whole

guitar rig for live or recording. If you already have a

favorite guitar amp, the X1 preamp can work as a

pedal in front of your amp with true hardwire bypass.

It can feed a power amp or a guitar amp return to

power guitar speaker cabinets. If you don’t have an

amp at all, it can drive a regular guitar cabinet directly

with 1 Watt of power. The Cab Voiced/Phones jack

uses Carvin Amplifiers third generation

Cabinet Voicing circuit to give you the frequency

response of a 2x12” or 4x12” guitar speaker cabinet

so you can just plug in headphones or connect to

a recording or PA system without having to mic a

speaker.

DESIGNED FOR MAKING CONNECTIONS

The design criteria for the X1 was to deliver the

sounds of the classic Carvin X-100B amplifier in a

compact package with added connectivity. The result

is a full tube preamp in a pedal format, able to fit in

a carry-on or backpack. The X1 incorporates tube

technology with simple, yet flexible modern features

to interface with many types of gear.

EXTENSIVE TONE CONTROL

The wide range BASS, MID, TREBLE, and PRESENCE

tone controls are the same circuits as used in the

X-100B amplifier. The Rhythm channel’s

BRIGHT switch adds sparkling clear highs to clean

tones. The powerful 5-band Graphic EQ can be set to

activate for either or both channels, and footswitched

off/on .

WHAT, NO SPEAKERS?

The Phones jack uses Carvin Amp’s 3G (third

generation) analog Cabinet Voicing circuit to emulate

the response of a 2x12” or 4x12” guitar speaker cabinet.

Connect headphones for “silent” practice, or feed to any

combination of effects, recording inputs or live gear to

capture real tube tones without miking speakers.

WHAT, NO AMP ?

A 1 watt amp is built in, capable of driving any standard

guitar cabinet. 1 Watt is louder than you might think! Of

course it’s not enough for every situation, but it’s great

when you don’t want to carry an amp or when you

just want to practice.

12AX7 TUBE STAGES

Tone generation and overdrive comes from 12AX7

tubes, utilizing tube gain stages running at the same

operating conditions as they do in a full

size X100B tube amp.

GROUND CONTROL

The X1 has 4 top mounted footswitches for Channel,

Gain, Graphic EQ and Bypass. Switch from Rhythm

to Lead with the CHANNEL switch, then hit the GAIN

footswitch to kick up the tube overdrive when you

need it. Kick in the Graphic EQ for a second set of

tone on demand. Use the BYPLOOP footswitch to hard

bypass the whole pedal, or to just turn off the

Effects Loop. The Graphic EQ’s back lighting shows

different colors for channel selection and EQ on so

you always know what setting you’re on.

CARVIN ENGINEERING DATA X1 X1 TUBE PREAMP PEDALX1 TUBE PREAMP PEDAL

PG. 3

X1 TUBE PREAMP PEDAL

X1 TUBE PREAMP SPECIFICATIONS:

Preamp Tubes: Two 12AX7 (four stages)

Controls: MASTER, BASS, MID, TREBLE, PRESENCE, GRAPHIC EQ

Lead channel: VOLUME, DRIVE, GAIN switch

Rhythm channel: VOLUME, BRIGHT switch

Graphic EQ: 5-Band, channel tracking, footswitchable, backlight color indications

Audio connections: Input, Output, Loop Send, Loop Return, Cab Voiced Out/Phones, Speaker

Input Impedance: >500K Ohms

Effects loop: Fully buffered, footswitchable, pre-Master/Amp/Voiced Out

Cab Voiced/Phones: 3G (3rd generation) active analog circuit, 2x12” and 4x12” settings,

TS (mono) or TRS dual-mono (for stereo heaphones) low impedance capable

Speaker Output: 1 Watt @ 4 Ohms minimum

Footswitches (4): BYPASS(Master or Loop), GEQ, GAIN, CHANNEL

Bypass type (master): relay engaged hardwire bypass

DC adapter (included): Carvin model# AC12VDC1AU, 100-240VAC input, international plug set.

12VDC/1A voltage regulated output, 5.5mmOD/2.1mmID Center Positive.

Size: H x W x D 3.825” x 8.875” x 8.375” (97mm x 225mm x 213mm)

Weight (without adapter): 3.9 lb. (1.77 kg)

Warranty: One Year, 90 days on tubes

Congratulations on your purchase of the X1 tube preamp pedal. The

X1 is designed to give you real tube tone with the ability to integrate

into nearly any system. The X1 works as an add-in pedal to your current

setup, or it can be the center of your whole guitar rig for live or recording.

If you already have a favorite guitar amp, the X1 preamp can work as a

pedal in front of your amp with true hardwire bypass. It can feed a power

amp or a guitar amp return to power guitar speaker cabinets. If you don’t

have an amp at all, it can drive a regular guitar cabinet directly with 1

Watt of power. The Cab Voiced/Phones jack uses Carvin’s third generation

Cabinet Voicing circuit to give you the frequency response of a 2x12”

or 4x12” guitar speaker cabinet so you can just plug in headphones or

connnect to a recording or PA system without having to mic a speaker.

DESIGNED FOR MAKING CONNECTIONS

The design criteria for the X1 was to deliver the sounds of the classic

Carvin X-100B amplifier in a compact package with added connectivity.

The result is a full tube preamp in a pedal format, able to fit in a carry-on

or backpack. The X1 incorporates tube technology with simple, yet flexible

modern features to interface with many types of gear.

12AX7 TUBE STAGES

Tone generation and overdrive comes from 12AX7 tubes, utilizing tube

gain stages running at the same operating conditions as they do in a full

size tube amp.

GROUND CONTROL

The X1 has 4 top mounted footswitches for Channel, Gain, Graphic EQ

and Bypass. Switch from Rhythm to Lead with the CHANNEL switch, then

hit the GAIN footswitch to kick up the tube overdrive when you need it.

Kick in the Graphic EQ for a second set of tone on demand. Use the BYP-

LOOP footswitch to hard bypass the whole pedal, or to just turn off the

Effects Loop. The Graphic EQ’s backlighting shows different colors for

channel selection and EQ on so you always know what setting you’re on.

EXTENSIVE TONE CONTROL

The wide range BASS, MID, TREBLE, and PRESENCE tone controls are

the same circuits as used in the X-100B amplifier. The Rhythm channel’s

BRIGHT switch adds sparkling clear highs to clean tones. The powerful

5-band Graphic EQ can be set to activate for either or both channels, and

footswitched off/on.

NO SPEAKERS?

The Phones jack uses Carvin’s 3G (third generation) analog Cabinet

Voicing circuit to emulate the response of a 2x12” or 4x12” guitar speaker

cabinet. Connect headphones for “silent” practice, or feed to any combi-

nation of effects, recording inputs or live gear to capture real tube tones

without micing speakers.

NO AMP?

A 1 watt amp is built in, capable of driving any standard guitar cabinet.

1 Watt is louder than you might think! Of course it’s not enough for every

situation, but it’s great when you don’t want to carry an amp or when you

just want to practice.

76-22111A 081517

For your records, you may wish to record the following information.

Serial No._______________________ Invoice Date__________________

RECEIVING INSPECTION—read before getting started

INSPECT YOUR AMP FOR DAMAGE which may have occurred during shipping. If damage is

found, please notify the shipping company and CARVIN immediately.

SAVE THE CARTON & ALL PACKING MATERIALS. In the event you have to re-ship your unit,

always use the original carton and packing material. This will provide the best possible protec-

tion during shipment. CARVIN and the shipping company are not liable for any damage caused

by improper packing.

SHIPMENT SHORTAGE. If you find items missing, they may have been shipped separately.

Please allow several days for the rest of your order to arrive before inquiring.

RECORD the SERIAL NUMBER and INVOICE DATE on the enclosed warranty card and

below on this manual for your records. Keep your portion of the card and return the portion

with your name and comments to us.

REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL!

THIS UNIT CONTAINS HIGH VOLTAGE INSIDE!

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

EXAMPLE SETUPS

IMPORTANT! FOR YOUR PROTECTION, PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING:

WATER AND MOISTURE: Appliance should not be used near water (near a bathtub, washbowl,

kitchen sink, laundry tub, in a wet basement, or near a swimming pool, etc). Care should be taken

so that objects do not fall and liquids are not spilled into the enclosure through openings.

POWER SOURCES: The appliance should be connected to a power supply only of the type

described in the operating instructions or as marked on the unit.

GROUNDING OR POLARIZATION: Precautions should be taken so that the grounding or

polarization means of an appliance is not defeated.

POWER CORD PROTECTION: Power supply cords should be routed so that they are not likely

to be walked on or pinched by items placed upon or against them, paying particular attention

to cords at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the appliance.

SERVICING: The user should not attempt to service the unit beyond that described in the

operating instructions. All other servicing should be referred to qualified service personnel.

FUSING: If your unit is equipped with a fuse receptacle, replace only with the same type fuse.

Refer to replacement text on the unit for correct fuse type.

This symbol is intended to alert

the user to the presence of unin-

sulated “dangerous voltage”

within the product’s enclosure

that may be of sufficient mag-

nitude to constitute a risk of

electric shock to persons.

This symbol is intended to alert

the user to the presence of

important operating and main-

tenance (servicing) instructions

in the literature accompanying

the appliance.

LIMITED WARRANTY

Your Carvin preamp is guaranteed against failure for ONE YEAR (USA) unless otherwise stated.

Vacuum tubes are guaranteed for 90 days. Carvin will service and supply all parts at no charge

to the customer providing the unit is under warranty. Shipping costs are the responsibility of the

customer. CARVIN DOES NOT PAY FOR PARTS OR SERVICING OTHER THAN OUR OWN.

A COPY OF THE ORIGINAL INVOICE IS REQUIRED TO VERIFY YOUR WARRANTY. Carvin

assumes no responsibility for horn drivers or speakers damaged by this unit. This warranty does

not cover, and no liability is assumed, for damage due to: natural disasters, accidents, abuse, loss

of parts, lack of reasonable care, incorrect use, or failure to follow instructions. This warranty is

in lieu of all other warranties, expressed or implied. No representative or person is authorized to

represent or assume for Carvin any liability in connection with the sale or servicing of Carvin prod-

ucts. CARVIN SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES.

MAINTAINING YOUR EQUIPMENT

The outer surface of your unit can be wiped with a dry or slightly damp cloth in order to remove

dust and bring back the new look. Avoid spilling liquids or allowing any other foreign matter inside

the unit. As with all pro gear, avoid prolonged use in caustic environments (salt air). When used

in such an environment, be sure the equipment is adequately protected.

SERVICE:

In the USA: email: [email protected], or visit our website: www.carvinaudio.com and under

“SUPPORT” click on “REPAIR INFORMATION”

Outside the USA: contact your dealer, or go to http://www.carvinaudio.com click on “DEALERS”

for your nearest service center.

Include a written description of the problem with serial number and date of purchase.

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

CAUTION

16262 WEST BERNARDO DR. SAN DIEGO, CA 92127

800-854-2235 CARVINAUDIO.COM

BUILT IN THE

USA

USER MANUAL

The X1 works as an add-in pedal to your current setup, or it can be the center of your whole guitar rig for live

or recording. Feed a guitar amp input, or just use your amp’s power section. Drive a guitar cabinet from the

built-in 1 Watt amp.

Carvin’s analog Cabinet Voicing out emulates a guitar cabinet response for headphones,

recording or live gear.

USER MANUAL

X1 SPECIFICATIONS:

»Preamp Tubes: Two 12AX7 (four stages)

»Controls: MASTER, BASS, MID, TREBLE, PRESENCE,

GRAPHIC EQ

»Lead channel: VOLUME, DRIVE, GAIN switch

»Rhythm channel: VOLUME, BRIGHT switch

»Graphic EQ: 5-Band, channel tracking, foot

switchable, backlight color indications

»Audio connections: Input, Output, Loop Send, Loop

Return, Cab Voiced Out/Phones, Speaker

»Input Impedance: >500K Ohms

»Effects loop: Fully buffered, footswitchable,

pre-Master/Amp/Voiced Out. SEND level +4dBu

»Cab Voiced/Phones: 3G (3rd generation) active

analog circuit, 2x12” and 4x12” settings,

»TS (mono) or TRS dual-mono (for stereo headphones)

low impedance capable

»Speaker Output: 1 Watt @ 4 Ohms minimum

»Footswitches (4): BYPASS(Master or Loop), GEQ,

GAIN, CHANNEL

»Bypass type (master): relay engaged hardwire bypass

»DC adapter (included): , 100-240VAC input,

international plug set.. 12VDC/1A voltage regulated

output, 5.5mmOD/2.1mmID Center Positive

»Size: H x W x D 3.825” x 8.875” x 8.375” (97mm x

225mm x 213mm)

»Weight (without adapter): 3.9 lb. (1.77 kg)

EXAMPLE SETUPS

The X1 works as an add-in pedal to your current setup,

or it can be the center of your whole guitar rig for live

or recording. Feed a guitar amp input, or just use your

amp’s power section. Drive a guitar cabinet from the

built-in 1 Watt amp. Carvin Amp’s analog Cabinet

Voicing out emulates a guitar cabinet response for

headphones, recording or live gear.

CARVIN ENGINEERING DATACARVIN ENGINEERING DATA X1X1 X1 TUBE PREAMP PEDALX1 TUBE PREAMP PEDAL

PG. 4

GETTING STARTED QUICKLY

If you are like most players, you probably

want to plug in and get playing right away.

You can read the rest of the manual later to

learn the ner details.

To get started you will need your X1 preamp

with it’s AC adapter, an instrument, a standard

guitar cord, and something to listen

with: an amp, headphones, or guitar

speaker.

Turn the MASTER control to “0”. Turn

the Volume, Drive, and tone controls

to their center position.

Plug in your instrument at the rear INPUT

jack. If you are using an amp with guitar speak

ers, plug in to the rear OUTPUT jack.

If you are listening with amplied full-range

speakers or headphones, plug into the side

PHONES/CAB VOICED OUT jack. A guitar

speaker can be plugged into the SPEAKER

jack.

Plug in the AC apapter to the rear POWER

jack, then plug it into the proper AC voltage.

Allow 30 seconds for the tubes to warm up.

Set the left ON/BYPASS footswitch to light

the red “ON” LED near the MASTER. The

right footswitch selects RHYTHM or LEAD

channels. The middle-right footswitch adds

GAIN for the LEAD channel.

Turn up the MASTER slightly and adjust each

channel VOLUME. Adjust the DRIVE and tone

controls and you’re ready to go.

If you experience problems, rst check

the AC/DC adapter and all connections and

settings. Sometimes the solution is pressing

a switch or turning a dial. If you still feel your

preamp is malfunctioning, contact Carvin.

Tubes can be damaged in shipping.

7. LEAD level control

Set the volume of the LEAD channel with this control. The MASTER

control also affects output.

8. DRIVE CONTROL (Lead channel)

The DRIVE control affects tube harmonics and saturation of the LEAD

channel. The GAIN function (see #10) increases the effect of the DRIVE.

For textured harmonics with mild tube overdrive, turn the DRIVE control

below “4”. For increased harmonics and sustain, turn up the DRIVE past

“6”. For full blown distortion, turn on the GAIN footswitch and set the

DRIVE control between “7” and “10”. If feedback occurs at high gain,

move the guitar pickups away from any speakers or reduce the DRIVE.

9. GAIN LED (Lead channel)

The red LED near the DRIVE control indicates GAIN mode is ON for

the LEAD channel, selected with the GAIN footswitch (middle-right).

The GAIN switch changes the gain structure of the LEAD channel:

With GAIN OFF, the DRIVE control has the range to go from a warm

clean sound, to a bluesy breakup, to a dynamic crunch overdrive.

GAIN ON increases the amount of drive available, allowing thick distortion

harmonics while still retaining 12AX7A tube dynamics. Hi-gain sounds are

available without the need for additional pedals that can limit dynamics.

10. GRAPHIC EQ and RHY & LEAD switches with LEDs

The Graphic Equalizer is powerful way to shape your sound. Each fader

can be set for up to 12dB of boost (slide up) or cut (slide down) for each

of the 5 frequency ranges labeled above.

To enable the Graphic EQ for the LEAD or RHYTHM cahnnel, use the

small “GEQ” switches to the right of the faders. ON is indicated by the

small blue LED (RHY channel) or small red LED (LEAD channel).

The Graphic EQ can be set ON or OFF independently for LEAD or

RHYTHM channels and switched from the (middle-left) “GEQ” footswitch.

The LED lighting in the fader slots will add YELLOW in the center area

when the Graphic EQ is ON.

11. BYP-LOOP SWITCH and LEDs

The small grey “BYP-LOOP” switch changes the BYPASS function of

the LEFT footswitch.

With the small switch OUT, pressing the LEFT footswitch engages full

BYPASS mode. Signal is passed from the Input jack directly to the outputs

unaffected by any of the controls. In BYPASS the CAB VOICED OUT/

PHONES jack will retain guitar speaker emulation. In BYPASS mode the

signal directly from the INPUT jack will be amplified at the SPEAKER

jack. The red “BYPASS” LED turns off when full BYPASS is enagaged.

With the small switch IN, pressing the LEFT footswitch bypasses only

the (Effects) LOOP. The green “LOOP” LED is ON when the LOOP is

active and shuts OFF when the LOOP is bypassed.

REAR PANEL

12. INPUT

A standard 1/4” INPUT jack feeds the channels, or bypasses directly

to the outputs if BYPASS mode is engaged. For best results, use a

professional quality guitar cord shorter than 25 feet. Typical cable

capacitance is about 25pF per foot. The longer the cord, the greater the

capacitance, which will reduce the overall treble response from your

guitar pickups.

13. POWER JACK

The POWER jack requires an AC adapter, which is included with the X1

preamp. Other power sources can be used, but must have a regulated

12VDC output, 1A (1000mA) or more and center pin positive (+) polarity.

14. SPEAKER JACK

The SPEAKER jack can drive typical guitar speakers directly. Multiple

speakers can be connected as long as the total impedance is not below 4

Ohms. For instance, connecting two 8 ohms speakers in parallel equals a

4 Ohm impedance. In BYPASS mode the signal from the INPUT jack will

be amplified at the SPEAKER jack, unaffected by any of the X1’s controls.

The X1 will not be harmed by playing without a speaker.

15. LOOP SEND & RETURN JACKS and FOOTSWITCH

Use the SEND jack to connect to an effect’s Input. Use the RETURN

jack to connect to an effect’s Output.

To use the LEFT footswitch to bypass the effects LOOP, set the small

“BYP-LOOP” switch to IN for LOOP bypass mode. The green “LOOP”

LED is ON when the LOOP is active and OFF if the LOOP is bypassed.

Effects will be heard at the OUTPUT, SPEAKER and CAB VOICED jacks

unless full BYPASS or LOOP BYPASS is engaged (see #12).

Effects like compressor, envelope filter or wah pedals usually sound

best when used between the guitar and INPUT jack. Effects can also be

used on the OUTPUT or CAB VOICED OUT jacks.

16. OUTPUT

The rear panel OUTPUT jack is for connecting to guitar amps or power

amps which will drive guitar speakers.

The OUTPUT jack can be connected to the front input of a guitar amp

and added or removed from the signal path using the full BYPASS mode

of the LEFT footswitch similar to using a distortion pedal.

The OUTPUT jack can connect to a power amp input or to a guitar amp’s

“Effects Return” or “Power Amp In” to drive guitar speakers. Effects can

be connected between the OUTPUT and the amp or used in the LOOP.

SIDE PANEL

17. CAB VOICED OUT/PHONES JACK and 2x12/4x12 SWITCH

The side panel CAB VOICED OUT/PHONES jack uses Carvin’s third

generation active cabinet voicing circuit to emulate the response of a

guitar speaker cabinet. This allows you to perform or record tracks without

using guitar speakers. Select a 2x12” or 4x12” cabinet response with the

top panel 2x12-4x12 switch.

The CAB VOICED OUT/PHONES jack will drive recording gear, mixer

inputs, effects or power amps and will drive stereo headphones directly.

Lower the MASTER before plugging in. In BYPASS mode the cabinet

voicing remains active and gets signal directly from the INPUT jack,

unaffected by any controls.

HELP SECTION

A) As with any vacuum tubes in a metal chassis, the X1 chassis will

become warm. If the unit is functioning properly and sounding right this

is typically not a concern.

B) FEEDBACK FROM THE LEAD CHANNEL

The X1 may feedback when the VOLUME, DRIVE, TREBLE and

PRESENCE are turned all the way up. Like other high-gain tube amps,

this is normal. To help control feedback and noise, reduce the DRIVE

or VOLUME, or move the guitar to the side or away from the speakers.

Sometimes replacing a 12AX7A tube can help reduce feedback.

C) TUBE REPLACEMENT GUIDE

It is not uncommon for tubes to malfunction during shipping or after a

long period of time. The tubes may need replacing if the sound becomes

muddy, dull or drops out.

1.) Disconnect the AC adapter from the X1 preamp.

- Do not apply power to the unit with the cover removed!

2.) Remove the chrome nut on the left side for “Phones/Cab Voiced Out”.

3.) Remove the 4 screws on each side, and the 6 bottom screws.

4.) Remove the bottom cover to view the two 12AX7 tubes.

5.) Carefully remove the old tubes with circular motion. *If you can see

cracks in the glass or feel the tube coming apart as you move it, there

may be broken glass. Use a thick towel or thick gloves to remove the tube.

6.) Check the replacement tubes for damage to the glass and carefully

straighten any bent pins if needed.

7.) Carefully insert the new tubes.

8.) Place the bottom cover back on the unit and screw in all screws.

9.) Install the chrome nut and washer on the side jack.

-Done.

1. EQ LIGHTING - COLOR CHANGE

The LED lighting seen through the Graphic EQ’s vertical slots changes

color to indicate the Channel and Graphic EQ selections.

RED indicates the LEAD channel is selected.

BLUE indicates the RHYTHM channel is selected.

When the Graphic EQ is ON the LED lighting inside the slots will add

YELLOW in the center area, ORANGE-YELLOW or BLUE-GREEN.

2. FOOTSWITCHES

The LEFT footswitch is for full BYPASS or effects LOOP switching.

(see #11 for the BYP-LOOP selector switch)

The MIDDLE LEFT footwitch is for Graphic EQ switching (see #10).

The MIDDLE RIGHT footswitch is for GAIN mode on the LEAD channel.

The RIGHT footswitch chooses between the LEAD or RHYTHM channel.

The LED’s inside the Graphic EQ indicate which channel is active.

3. MASTER

Set the MASTER control for overall volume for the OUTPUT, SPEAKER,

and PHONES/CAB VOICED OUT jacks.

4. BASS, MID, TREBLE & PRESENCE (tone controls - both channels)

You can start at 5 on the dial for each of the tone controls. Set these

controls according to the sound you are looking for. Even though you

may have found “your sound”, you may want to change the settings for

different guitars or playing conditions. It’s normal to decrease the BASS

at higher playing levels, or adjust the TREBLE or PRESENCE depending

on the music. Turning up PRESENCE allows you to stand out in the

mix or sound more agressive. Turning PRESENCE down produces a

smoother, thicker sound.

5. RHYTHM level control

This control sets the RHYTHM channel volume. The Rhythm channel

gives you clean, crisp sounds with high headroom. Special mud-cutting

circuits allow clear and vibrant guitar tones to come through. If unwanted

distortion is heard when using high output pickups, lower this control

and raise the MASTER control.

6. BRIGHT SWITCH (Rhythm channel)

The BRIGHT switch increases only the highest guitar harmonics in the

upper fequency range. This is ideal for brightening up dual coil pickups.

X1 preamp - tOp aND rear paNeLS

REAR PANEL

X1 preamp CONNeCtIONS aND CONtrOLS

12 14 16

SIDE

PANEL

X1 CONNECTIONS AND CONTROLS

1. EQ LIGHTING - COLOR CHANGE

The LED lighting seen through the Graphic EQ’s vertical

slots changes color to indicate the Channel and Graphic

EQ selections. RED indicates the LEAD channel is

selected. BLUE indicates the RHYTHM channel is

selected. When the Graphic EQ is ON the LED lighting

inside the slots will add YELLOW in the center area,

ORANGE-YELLOW or BLUE-GREEN.

2. FOOTSWITCHES

The LEFT footswitch is for full BYPASS or effects LOOP

switching (see #11 for the BYP-LOOP selector switch).

The MIDDLE LEFT footswitch is for Graphic EQ

switching (see #10). The MIDDLE RIGHT footswitch

is for GAIN mode on the LEAD channel. The RIGHT

footswitch chooses between the LEAD or RHYTHM

channel.

The LEDs inside the Graphic EQ indicate which channel

is active.

3. MASTER

Set the MASTER control for overall volume for the

OUTPUT, SPEAKER, and PHONES/CAB VOICED OUT

jacks.

4. BASS, MID, TREBLE & PRESENCE (tone controls -

both channels)

You can start at 5 on the dial for each of the tone

controls. Set these controls according to the sound you

are looking for. Even though you may have found “your

sound”, you may want to change the settings for

different guitars or playing conditions. It’s normal to

decrease the BASS at higher playing levels, or adjust

the TREBLE or PRESENCE depending on the music.

Turning up PRESENCE allows you to stand out in the

mix or sound more aggressive. Turning PRESENCE

down produces a smoother, thicker sound.

5. RHYTHM level control

This control sets the RHYTHM channel volume. The

Rhythm channel gives you clean, crisp sounds with high

headroom. Special mud-cutting circuits allow clear and

vibrant guitar tones to come through. If unwanted

distortion is heard when using high output pickups,

lower this control and raise the MASTER control.

6. BRIGHT SWITCH (Rhythm channel)

The BRIGHT switch increases only the highest guitar

harmonics in the

upper frequency range. This is ideal for brightening up

dual coil pickups.

7. LEAD level control

Set the volume of the LEAD channel with this control.

The MASTER control also affects output.

QUICK START GUIDE

If you are like most players, you probably

want to plug in and get playing right away.

You can read the rest of the manual later to

learn the finer details. To get started you will need

your X1 preamp with it’s AC adapter, an instrument, a

standard guitar cord, and something to listen

with: an amp, headphones, or guitar

speaker. Turn the MASTER control to “0”. Turn the

Volume, Drive, and tone controls to their center position.

Plug in your instrument at the rear INPUT jack. If you are

using an amp with guitar speakers, plug in to the rear

OUTPUT jack. If you are listening with amplified full-

range speakers or headphones, plug into the side

PHONES/CAB VOICED OUT jack. A guitar speaker

can be plugged into the SPEAKER jack. Plug in the AC

adapter to the rear POWER jack, then plug it into the

proper AC voltage. Allow 30 seconds for the tubes to

warm up. Set the left ON/BYPASS footswitch to light

the red “ON” LED near the MASTER. The right

footswitch selects RHYTHM or LEAD channels. The

middle-right footswitch adds GAIN for the LEAD

channel. Turn up the MASTER slightly and adjust each

channel VOLUME. Adjust the DRIVE and tone controls

and you’re ready to go.

CARVIN ENGINEERING DATACARVIN ENGINEERING DATA X1X1 X1 TUBE PREAMP PEDALX1 TUBE PREAMP PEDAL

PG. 5

X1 CONNECTIONS AND CONTROLS CONT.

8. DRIVE CONTROL (Lead channel)

The DRIVE control affects tube harmonics and

saturation of the LEAD channel. The GAIN function (see

#10) increases the effect of the DRIVE. For textured

harmonics with mild tube overdrive, turn the DRIVE

control below “4”. For increased harmonics and sustain,

turn up the DRIVE past “6”. For full blown distortion,

turn on the GAIN footswitch and set the DRIVE control

between “7” and “10”. If feedback occurs at high gain,

move the guitar pickups away from any speakers or

reduce the DRIVE.

9. GAIN LED (Lead channel)

The red LED near the DRIVE control indicates GAIN

mode is ON for the LEAD channel, selected with

the GAIN footswitch (middle-right). The GAIN switch

changes the gain structure of the LEAD channel:

With GAIN OFF, the DRIVE control has the range to

go from a warm clean sound, to a bluesy breakup, to

a dynamic crunch overdrive. GAIN ON increases the

amount of drive available, allowing thick distortion

harmonics while still retaining 12AX7A tube dynamics.

Hi-gain sounds are available without the need for

additional pedals that can limit dynamics.

10. GRAPHIC EQ and RHY & LEAD switches with LEDs

The Graphic Equalizer is a powerful way to shape your

sound. Each fader can be set for up to 12dB of boost

(slide up) or cut (slide down) for each of the 5 frequency

ranges labeled above. To enable the Graphic EQ for

the LEAD or RHYTHM channel, use the small “GEQ”

switches to the right of the faders. ON is indicated by

the small blue LED (RHY channel) or small red LED

(LEAD channel). The Graphic EQ can be set ON or OFF

independently for LEAD or RHYTHM channels and

switched from the (middle-left) “GEQ” footswitch.

The LED lighting in the fader slots will add YELLOW in

the center area when the Graphic EQ is ON.

11. BYP-LOOP SWITCH and LEDs

The small grey “BYP-LOOP” switch changes the

BYPASS function of the LEFT footswitch.

With the small switch OUT, pressing the LEFT

footswitch engages full BYPASS mode. Signal is passed

from the Input jack directly to the outputs unaffected by

any of the controls. In BYPASS the CAB VOICED OUT/

PHONES jack will retain guitar speaker emulation.

In BYPASS mode the signal directly from the INPUT

jack will be amplified at the SPEAKER jack. The red

“BYPASS” LED turns off when full BYPASS is engaged.

With the small switch IN, pressing the LEFT footswitch

bypasses only the (Effects) LOOP. The green “LOOP”

LED is ON when the LOOP is active and shuts OFF

when the LOOP is bypassed.

X1 REAR PANEL CONNECTIONS

12. INPUT

A standard 1/4” INPUT jack feeds the channels, or

bypasses directly to the outputs if BYPASS mode is

engaged. For best results, use a professional quality

guitar cord shorter than 25 feet. Typical cable

capacitance is about 25pF per foot. The longer the

cord, the greater the capacitance, which will reduce the

overall treble response from your guitar pickups.

13. POWER JACK

The POWER jack requires an AC adapter, which is

included with the X1 preamp. Other power sources can

be used, but must have a regulated 12VDC output, 1A

(1000mA) or more and center pin positive (+) polarity.

14. SPEAKER JACK

The SPEAKER jack can drive typical guitar speakers

directly. Multiple speakers can be connected as long as

the total impedance is not below 4 Ohms. For instance,

connecting two 8 ohms speakers in parallel equals a

4 Ohm impedance. In BYPASS mode the signal from

the INPUT jack will be amplified at the SPEAKER jack,

unaffected by any of the X1’s controls. The X1 will not

be harmed by playing without a speaker.

15. LOOP SEND & RETURN JACKS and FOOTSWITCH

Use the SEND jack to connect to an effect’s Input. Use

the RETURN jack to connect to an effect’s Output.

To use the LEFT footswitch to bypass the effects LOOP,

set the small “BYP-LOOP” switch to IN for LOOP bypass

mode. The green “LOOP” LED is ON when the LOOP is

active and OFF if the LOOP is bypassed. Effects will be

heard at the OUTPUT, SPEAKER and CAB VOICED jacks

unless full BYPASS or LOOP BYPASS is engaged (see

#12). Effects like compressor, envelope filter or wah

pedals usually sound best when used between the

guitar and INPUT jack. Effects can also be

used on the OUTPUT or CAB VOICED OUT jacks.

16. OUTPUT

The rear panel OUTPUT jack is for connecting to guitar

amps or power amps which will drive guitar speakers.

The OUTPUT jack can be connected to the front

input of a guitar amp and added or removed from the

signal path using the full BYPASS mode of the LEFT

footswitch similar to using a distortion pedal.

The OUTPUT jack can connect to a power amp input

or to a guitar amp’s “Effects Return” or “Power Amp

In” to drive guitar speakers. Effects can be connected

between the OUTPUT and the amp or used in the

LOOP.

CARVIN ENGINEERING DATACARVIN ENGINEERING DATA X1X1 X1 TUBE PREAMP PEDALX1 TUBE PREAMP PEDAL

PG. 6

HELP SECTION

A) As with any vacuum tubes in a metal chassis, the

X1 chassis will become warm. If the unit is functioning

properly and sounding right this is typically not a

concern.

B) FEEDBACK FROM THE LEAD CHANNEL

The X1 may feedback when the VOLUME, DRIVE,

TREBLE and PRESENCE are turned all the way up.

Like other high-gain tube amps, this is normal. To

help control feedback and noise, reduce the DRIVE or

VOLUME, or move the guitar to the side or away from

the speakers. Sometimes replacing V1 or V2 (12AX7A

tubes) can help reduce feedback.

C) TUBE REPLACEMENT GUIDE

It is not uncommon for tubes to malfunction during

shipping or after a long period of time. The tubes may

need replacing if the sound becomes muddy, dull or

drops out.