Fryette Power Load PL-1 User manual

OWNERS MANUAL
Power Load™
VARIABLE REACTIVE LOAD BOX WITH CAB + MIC EMULATION
MODEL PL-1

2© 2018 Fryee® Amplification. All rights reserved. Specifications subject to change without notice.
Welcome to the family!
Congratulations and thank you for choosing the FRYETTE Power Load™!
You are constantly searching for new sounds and new ways to improve your existing sound. We under-
stand the constantly evolving nature of artistic creativity and the search for the perfect sound to comple-
ment your ever-widening musical vision. Providing the tools to help you create your own sonic signature is
our primary mission.
The Fryee Power Load™ is an easy to use, tunable reactive load coupled to a powerful analog Cab + Mic
Emulation system that allows you to silently record your favorite cranked guitar tube amplifier. The Power
Load™ allows you to fine tune the reactive behavior of your amplifier‘s response, and the response character
of the Cab + Mic Emulation for unprecedented control of your direct performance.
Built on decades of experience producing the finest all tube amplifiers available, the Fryee Power Load™
is a practical and highly functional tool that solves problems frequently encountered in live playing and recording
environments. Whether you are recording, performing live, writing, practicing, or just jamming with headphones,
the Fryee Power Load™ will surprise you with its ability to get the most out of your favorite tube amp –
silently!
Geing familiar with the Fryee Power Load™ is easy, so don’t be terribly surprised when you find yourself
up and running in no time. First-hand experience and real world application will yield the ultimate satisfaction
of finding your own path to comprehension and self-expression.
WELCOME
SPECIFICATIONS
XAward-winning Power Station® Reactive Load with Variable High and Low Frequency Response
X200W Speaker Load Capacity
XWorks with any tube amp head or combo
XAnalog Cab + Mic Emulation
X100% Analog Signal Path
XSilent Recording capability
XAmp In with selectable Input Impedance (4, 8 or 16 Ohm)
XPassive load will operate without external power
XOperates with 12VDC 500 mA power supply
XPhase Reverse Switch
X¼” AUX input with -10dB pad
XHeadphone amp with dedicated FX Loop
X¼” Headphone output
XXLR and ¼” transformer-isolated direct-only outputs
XXLR and ¼” Cab + Mic Emulated outputs

3© 2018 Fryee® Amplification. All rights reserved. Specifications subject to change without notice.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
This symbol warns the user of dangerous voltage levels localized within the enclosure.
This symbol advises the user to read all accompanying literature for safe operation of the unit.
XRead, retain, and follow all instructions. Heed all warnings.
XOnly connect to the supplied DC Adapter, or another power source in accordance with the voltage and
current rating listed on the rear panel of this product.
XWARNING: To prevent damage, fire or shock hazard, do not expose this unit to rain or moisture.
XUnplug the power supply before cleaning the unit exterior (use a damp cloth only). Wait until the unit
is completely dry before reconnecting it to power.
XMaintain unobstructed air space behind and above the unit to allow for proper ventilation and cooling.
XThis product should be located away from heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, or other products
that produce heat.
XProtect the power supply cord from being pinched or abraded.
XThe power supply of this product should be unplugged from the outlet when le unused for a long
period of time, or during electrical storms.
XThis product should be serviced by qualified service personnel when: the power supply inlet plug has
been damaged; or objects have fallen, or liquid has been spilled onto the product; or the product has
been exposed to rain; or the product does not appear to operate normally or exhibits a marked change
in performance; or the product has been dropped, or the enclosure damaged.
XDo not drip or splash liquids, nor place liquid filled containers on the unit.
XCAUTION: No user serviceable parts inside, refer servicing to qualified personnel only.
XFRYETTE® amplifiers, headphone amplifiers and loudspeaker systems are capable of producing very
high sound pressure levels which may cause temporary or permanent hearing damage. Use care when
seing and adjusting volume levels during use.
XTHE POWER LOAD™ IS NOT INTENDED FOR USE WITH SOLID STATE AMPLIFIERS THAT USE CURRENT
FEEDBACK AND AN UNGROUNDED OUTPUT. USING THE POWER LOAD™ WITH SUCH PRODUCTS MAY
CAUSE OSCILLATION AND POTENTIAL DAMAGE TO THE AMPLIFIER.
XTHE POWER LOAD™ IS NOT INTENDED FOR USE WITH CLASS D OR PWM AMPLIFIERS.
XFRYETTE® AMPLIFICATION IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY DAMAGE TO YOUR AMPLIFIER THAT MAY OCCUR
IN CONNECTION WITH ANY USE OF THE POWER LOAD™.
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

4© 2018 Fryee® Amplification. All rights reserved. Specifications subject to change without notice.
FRONT PANEL OVERVIEW
Record Direct using your favorite tube amp
The Fryee Power Load™ combines the variable reactive load of the Award-winning Fryee Power Station®
coupled to a tunable analog Cab + Mic Emulation system that allows you to silently record your favorite tube
amplifier. Whether you are seing your tweed combo at the sweet spot or doing a full right hand sweep on
your 100-wa head, the Power Load allows you to fine tune the reactive behavior the amplifier response,
and the character of the Cab + Mic Emulation for unprecedented control of your recorded performance.
Practice with headphones
You can run your favorite tube amp into the Power Load, cranked, for silent headphone practice with the
built-in professional-quality headphone amplifier. The stereo eects loop in the headphone amp allows you
to insert delays and reverb into the headphone mix. You can also connect a stereo music source such as a CD
or MP3 player or group practice mixer using the Program Input for an unprecedented level of performance.
Perform live
For live performance you can place the Power Load in between your amp and cabinet, sending the XLR with
Cab + Mic emulation direct to the Front of House PA and Monitor board. No cabs? No Problem! You can run
your favorite amp silently, delivering dynamic consistent tone direct to the console.
FRONT PANEL OVERVIEW
REACTIVE LOAD VOICING SWITCHES
The Reactive Load in the Power Load™ is what absorbs the output power of the amplifier connected to the
Amp In jack, and therefore the volume of that amplifier. It’s easier to think of the Reactive Load as a substitute
or dummy speaker. It reacts to your amplifier in the same way that a speaker reacts to your amplifier and
this is what helps your amplifier retain its original tone and feel. Like the speaker connected to an amplifier,
the response of the Reactive Load and it’s interaction with the load amp changes at dierent volume seings.
The Voicing Switches allow you to fine tune the response of the Reactive Load at your preferred playing volumes.
180
0
IMPEDANCE
SERIAL
PROGRAM
INPUT
RETURN R
ACTIVE AMP + CAB + MIC
CAUTION: DO NOT EXPOSE THIS
EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
PASSIVE FULL RANGE LINE OUT
RETURN l SEND
HEADPHONE FX LOOP
12VDC
500mA
AMP
IN
CAB
THRU
DIRECT
OUT 2
DIRECT
OUT 1
AUX
LEVEL
AUX INPUT
LOS ANGELES CALIFORNIA
POWER LOAD PL-1
4 OHMS
8 OHMS
16 OHMS
GROUND
LIFT
0
PHASE
180
INST
LINE
1 3 6 7
2 4 5 8 9
Works without power

5© 2018 Fryee® Amplification. All rights reserved. Specifications subject to change without notice.
FRONT PANEL OVERVIEW – CONTINUED
1. EDGE/BRITE/FLAT – This switch sets the high frequency (Treble/Presence) response of the reactive load
in the Power Load. This will determine how much of your load amplifier’s top end presence and clarity
will be retained. At high volume seings, this switch will normally be set FLAT or possibly BRITE if you
want a lile more cut in your live or recorded mix.
2. DEEP/WARM/FLAT - This switch sets the low frequency (Bass/Resonance) response of the reactive load
in the Power Load. This will determine how much of your load amplifier’s low end punch and depth will
be retained. At high volume seings, this switch will normally be set FLAT or possibly WARM if you want
a lile more low-end projection in your live or recorded mix.
NOTE: These switches only operate when your load amplifier’s speaker output is connected to the Power
Load Amp In jack. They remain operational whether the Power Load is powered on or o.
3. LEVEL – This adjusts the output level of the headphone amp output DIRECT 2 and DIRECT 1 outputs.
NOTE: This does NOT adjust the output level of the CAB THRU.
4. PHASE REVERSE SWITCH – Flips the phase of the audio signal 180 degrees for the DIRECT OUT 2 outputs only.
CAB + MIC SECTION
5. IN/OUT – This switch engages the analog CAB + MIC Emulator. You can dis-engage this section if you are using
an external Impulse Response cabinet simulator.
6. CONTOUR: LO MID, HI MID – These speaker curve simulation controls adjust two bands of mid frequency
behavior of the CAB + MIC emulator. Control range is +/- 12dB, center detent is flat.
7. EMPHASIS – This microphone simulation control adjusts the high frequency behavior of the CAB + MIC
emulator in conjunction with the AIR/BITE SWITCH. Control range is +/- 12dB, center detent is flat.
8. AIR/BITE – This switch selects the type of mic and placement simulation. The AIR seing creates a more
open sound (emphasizing higher frequencies), similar to an o-axis mic placement. The BITE seing
creates a more pronounced top end, accentuating the upper-mid frequencies, similar to an on-axis mic
placement.
9. POWER INDICATOR L.E.D. – Indicates when 12VDC electrical power is connected.
REAR PANEL OVERVIEW
180
0
IMPEDANCE
SERIAL
PROGRAM
INPUT
RETURN R
ACTIVE AMP + CAB + MIC
CAUTION: DO NOT EXPOSE THIS
EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
PASSIVE FULL RANGE LINE OUT
RETURN l SEND
HEADPHONE FX LOOP
12VDC
500mA
AMP
IN
CAB
THRU
DIRECT
OUT 2
DIRECT
OUT 1
AUX
LEVEL
AUX INPUT
LOS ANGELES CALIFORNIA
POWER LOAD PL-1
4 OHMS
8 OHMS
16 OHMS
GROUND
LIFT
0
PHASE
180
INST
LINE
12 1819
23 242220 21
11 13 15 17 16
1410

6© 2018 Fryee® Amplification. All rights reserved. Specifications subject to change without notice.
POWER SUPPLY, GROUND LIFT AND PASSIVE USE
10. The Power Load™ functions with or without the included 12VDC Power Supply. The reactive load, voicing
switches, level control and fan can operate without any external power supply. So, if you are using an
external Impulse Response or any other type of external speaker simulator, you do not need to use the
power supply. For Passive functionality, use DIRECT OUT 1.
The CAB + MIC emulation section does require the 12VDC power supply. For Active CAB + MIC emulation
functionality, use DIRECT OUT 2.
11. GROUND LIFT – This switch separates the internal circuit ground from chassis and power ground in
order to eliminate possible ground loops between the Power Load™ and other equipment. Select the
position which yields quietest operation.
CONNECTING YOUR AMP
12. AMP IMPEDANCE SWITCH – 2/4, 8 or 16 ohms. This sets the impedance of the internal reactive load for
optimum performance from your amplifier. Simply set the impedance selector switch for the impedance
required by your amplifier.
13. AMP IN – Connect the speaker output from the amplifier that you want to use – the load amplifier – here.
Set the Impedance Select switch to the desired seing to match your amplifier. The total power handling
capacity of the reactive load is as follows:
Amp In (Max Continuous):
200W @ 2, 4 & 16 Ohms.
150W @ 8 Ohms
NOTE: The Power Load™ is fan cooled and the fan will start to spin slowly once the incoming power
level reaches roughly 20 was. The fan speed will increase up to its maximum once you are driving
the Power Load™ to 100 was or more continuously.
14. CAB THRU – This sends the output of your amplifier to your guitar speaker cabinet. The impedance
of the cabinet should match the impedance of the amplifier, and the AMP IMPEDANCE switch on the
Power Load™ should also match the impedance of the amp.
NOTE: Set this impedance to match both the speaker and the load amplifier. Most cabs have a fixed
impedance and you usually have a choice of impedance on your amplifier. Therefore it is best to
choose the amplifier impedance that will match your speaker cab. This will assure that your amplifier
and speaker are matched correctly.
OUTPUT SECTION
15. DIRECT OUT 2: YOUR AMP + CAB + MIC EMULATION - This is your selectable Cab + Mic emulated output.
The Direct Out 2 features a ¼” unbalanced and an XLR balanced low impedance output. This section is
aected by the Cab + Mic emulation, when it is engaged on the front panel.
16. DIRECT OUT 1: PASSIVE, FULL RANGE OUTPUT - This is the sound of your amp, direct, without the Cab +
Mic emulation. The Direct Out 1 features a ¼” unbalanced and an XLR balanced low impedance output.
This section is ONLY aected by the Reactive Load Voicing Switches and Level control on the front panel.
This is designed for direct recording your raw amp performance and can be used with an Impulse Response
digital cab sim or other external speaker simulator for re-amping.
17. PHASE REVERSE SWITCH – Reverses the phase of the audio signal 180 degrees, for the DIRECT OUT 1
outputs only.
REAR PANEL OVERVIEW – CONTINUED

7© 2018 Fryee® Amplification. All rights reserved. Specifications subject to change without notice.
AUX INPUT SECTION
18. AUX INPUT – This input can be used to run preamps or pedals through the CAB + MIC Emulation of the
POWER LOAD. You can also send full range recordings through the POWER LOAD to add the CAB + MIC
Emulation to pre-recorded tracks.
19. AUX LEVEL SWITCH – This switch engages a -10 dB pad on the Aux Input for use with high level or low
level signal sources.
Note: When nothing is plugged into the Aux Input Jack, the Aux Level switch acts as a sensitivity
pad for the front panel level control. This is ideal when running a cranked, non-master volume high-
powered tube amplifier.
HEADPHONE FX LOOP SECTION
NOTE: This is a dedicated eects loop for the headphone out only.
This eects loop does not feed the direct outputs. When using the Power Load™ for live performance or
direct recording, place eects before your amp or aer (using the mixing console inserts or digital plug
ins). (See the sample set up examples in this manual).
20. HEADPHONE JACK – The headphone output is a ¼” stereo headphone output. CAUTION: This professi-
onal-quality headphone amplifier is capable of high sound pressure levels. Use care when seing and
adjusting volume levels during use.
21. PROGRAM INPUT – This is a 3.5 mm input jack for plugging in your MP3 player, tablet, smartphone, CD
player or cassee deck. This input is unaected by the eects loop, global eq, and cab + mic emulation.
This input can only be heard through the headphone output. The program level in the headphones is
determined by the output level control of the device being used.
22. FX RETURN R – High impedance eects return jack for use with external eects processor.
23. FX RETURN L – High impedance eects return jack for use with external eects processor.
24. FX SEND – Sends a buered low impedance mono signal out to your external eects.
REAR PANEL OVERVIEW – CONTINUED
YOUR SETTINGS / NOTES

8© 2018 Fryee® Amplification. All rights reserved. Specifications subject to change without notice.
SAMPLE SETTINGS
180
0
180
0
180
0
180
0
G12M
TWEED 1X12“
V30
SC 412 FANE

9© 2018 Fryee® Amplification. All rights reserved. Specifications subject to change without notice.
APPLICATION EXAMPLES
180
0
IMPEDANCE
SERIAL
PROGRAM
INPUT
RETUR N R
ACTIVE AMP + CAB + MI C
CAUTION: DO NOT EXPOSE THIS
EQUIPME NT TO RAIN OR M OISTURE.
PASSIV E FULL RAN GE LINE OUT
RETUR N l SEND
HEADPHONE FX LOOP
12VDC
500mA
AMP
IN
CAB
THRU
DIRECT
OUT 2
DIRECT
OUT 1
AUX
LEVEL
AUX INPUT
LOS ANGELES CALIFORNIA
POWER LOAD PL-1
4 OH MS
8 OH MS
16 OHM S
GROUND
LIFT
0
PHASE
180
INST
LINE
Amp Speaker Out
1. Direct recording (silent)
XLR or 1/4“
direct out
to mixer
Standard ¼“ to ¼“
male speaker cable
Fryee 12VDC
Adapter
2. Direct recording (silent) passive mode – without power supply
180
0
IMPEDANCE
SERIAL
PROGRAM
INPUT
RETUR N R
ACTIVE AMP + CAB + MI C
CAUTION: DO NOT EXPOSE THIS
EQUIPME NT TO RAIN OR M OISTURE.
PASSIV E FULL RAN GE LINE OUT
RETUR N l SEND
HEADPHONE FX LOOP
12VDC
500mA
AMP
IN
CAB
THRU
DIRECT
OUT 2
DIRECT
OUT 1
AUX
LEVEL
AUX INPUT
LOS ANGELES CALIFORNIA
POWER LOAD PL-1
4 OH MS
8 OH MS
16 OHM S
GROUND
LIFT
0
PHASE
180
INST
LINE
Amp Speaker Out
XLR or 1/4“
direct out
to mixer
All red outlined functions
work without power
The reactive load, voicing switches, level
control and fan can operate without any
external power supply. So, if you are using
an external Impulse Response or any other
type of external speaker simulator, you
do not need to use the power supply.
Use DIRECT OUT 1. For more information
about Passive functionality, see Page 6,
paragraph 9
Standard ¼“ to ¼“
male speaker cable
Fryee 12VDC
Adapter

10 © 2018 Fryee® Amplification. All rights reserved. Specifications subject to change without notice.
APPLICATION EXAMPLES
180
0
IMPEDANCE
SERIAL
PROGRAM
INPUT
RETUR N R
ACTIVE AMP + CAB + MI C
CAUTION: DO NOT EXPOSE THIS
EQUIPME NT TO RAIN OR M OISTURE.
PASSIV E FULL RAN GE LINE OUT
RETUR N l SEND
HEADPHONE FX LOOP
12VDC
500mA
AMP
IN
CAB
THRU
DIRECT
OUT 2
DIRECT
OUT 1
AUX
LEVEL
AUX INPUT
LOS ANGELES CALIFORNIA
POWER LOAD PL-1
4 OH MS
8 OH MS
16 OHM S
GROUND
LIFT
0
PHASE
180
INST
LINE
3. Practice with headphones
L
R
REVERB
Amp Speaker Out
Standard ¼“ to ¼“
male speaker cable
IMPEDANCE
SERIAL
PROGRAM
INPUT
RETUR N R
ACTIVE AMP + CAB + MI C
CAUTION: DO NOT EXPOSE THIS
EQUIPME NT TO RAIN OR M OISTURE.
PASSIV E FULL RAN GE LINE OUT
RETUR N l SEND
HEADPHONE FX LOOP
12VDC
500mA
AMP
IN
CAB
THRU
DIRECT
OUT 2
DIRECT
OUT 1
AUX
LEVEL
AUX INPUT
LOS ANGELES CALIFORNIA
POWER LOAD PL-1
4 OH MS
8 OH MS
16 OHM S
GROUND
LIFT
0
PHASE
180
INST
LINE
Amp Speaker Out
Speaker
Cab In
4. Direct out for live performance or recording
Standard ¼“ to ¼“
male speaker cable XLR (Balanced)
or ¼” (Unbalanced)
Direct Out to mixer