Komet Songwriter 30 User manual

Songwriter30Owner’s Manual
Copyright 1999-2017, KometAmplification. Group, L.L.C. May not be reproduced in any form without express written consent from KometAmplification.

PRECAUTIONS
TUBES ARE HOT!Make sure you allow the tubes in your amplifier to cool down before
handling them. They are also made of glass and can easily break. Wear safety gloves and
goggles when handling audio tubes.
DO NOT OPEN UP THE AMPLIFIER! There are no user serviceable parts inside. There
are lethal voltages present even when unplugged.
NEVER:replace the Mains or H.T. fuse with a higher rated fuse. This will most certainly
cause severe damage to your amplifier.
NEVER: use a shielded guitar or instrument cable as a speaker cable connection.
NEVER: operate any amp without a speaker load connected to the output jack(s).
ALWAYS:make certain that your AC power cable is unplugged when replacing any fuse.
ALWAYS:operate your Kometamplifier with the correct tube types listed in this owner’s
manual.
ALWAYS:use a three pronged, grounded AC power cable and always plug into a properly
grounded outlet. Failure to do so may result in injury or death.
ALWAYS UN-PLUG YOUR AMPLIFER WHEN YOU ARE DONE!This is to protect
your amplifier from surges in electrical power, or transient voltage. The standard American
home AC voltage is 120 Volts. Anything over this amount is considered transient and can
damage electronic devices that are plugged into an AC outlet. Though power surges are brief
and measured in nanoseconds, they can cause considerable or permanent damage to
electronic equipment. Electrical surges can damage electrical equipment by burning or fusing
internal wires or by the gradual degradation of a device’s internal components.The best way
to prevent damage is to unplug your amplifier when not in use.
NOTE:Devices such as refrigerators and air conditioners require large amounts of energy to
switch motors and compressors on and off. Such devices can create surges in power that
disrupt the steady flow of line voltage. Lightning, faulty wiring, downed power lines and
faulty equipment at the power source (utility company) can all cause power surges as well.
ALWAYS:try to keep your amplifier and/or speaker cabinet in a climate controlled setting.
Failure to do so can be problematic. The tolex on your amplifier head box cabinet can shift
and shrink in the Summer, especially if you leave your amplifier for an extended amount of
time in a sun heated vehicle, trunk, trailer, or an extremely hot and humid, non-air
conditioned environment. This is due to the glue used to apply the tolex to the wooden head
box cabinet. The glue can become slightly molten from excessive heat, which can make the
tolex movable, expand and then shrink when cooled. Excessive heat can only cause this tolex
situation and this is not covered under your Kometwarranty.
Copyright 1999-2017, KometAmplification. Group, L.L.C. May not be reproduced in any form without express written consent from KometAmplification.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Clean only with dry a cloth.
6. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Do not install near any heat sources, such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other
apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
8. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at plugs,
convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
9. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer
10. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when not used for long periods of time.
11. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been
damaged in any way, such as a power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been
spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or
moisture, does not operate normally or has been dropped.
12. CAUTION: To disconnect the unit completely from the Mains, unplug the unit. Turning the
power switch off does not completely disconnect the unit from the Mains.
13. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two
blades, with one wider than the other. A grounding-type plug has two blades and a third grounding
prong. The wide blade and the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does
not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
14. The unit shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing of liquids, and that no objects filled with
liquids such as vases shall be placed on the unit.
15. WARNING: This is a Class 1 apparatus. This unit should be connected to a MAINS socket outlet
with a protective earthing connection.
Copyright 1999-2017, KometAmplification. Group, L.L.C. May not be reproduced in any form without express written consent from KometAmplification.

EU ENVIORNMENTAL DIRECTIVES
RoHS This product is compliant with the EU Directive 2011/65/EU for the
Restriction of the use of Certain Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic
Equipment. No lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), hexavalent chromium (Cr+6),
PBB or PBDE is intentionally added to this device. Any traces of impurities of these
substances contained in the parts are below the RoHS specified threshold levels.
REACh This product is compliant with the European Union Directive EC1907/206
for the Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of chemicals (REACh)
and contains none or less than 0.1% of the chemicals listed as hazardous chemicals in
the REACh regulation.
WEEE This symbol on the product or its packaging indicates that this product
must not be disposed of with other waste. Instead, it is your responsibility to
dispose of your waste equipment by handing it over to a designated collection
point for the recycling of waste electrical and electronic equipment. The separate
collection and recycling of your waste equipment at the time of disposal will help
conserve natural resources and ensure that it is recycled in a manner that protects
human health and the environment. For more information about where you can
drop off your waste equipment for recycling, please contact your local city
recycling office or the dealer from whom you purchased the product.
CE This product complies with the European Union Council Directives and
Standards relating to electromagnetic compatibility EMC Directive (2006/95/EC)
and the Low Voltage Directive (2004/10)
Copyright 1999-2017, KometAmplification. Group, L.L.C. May not be reproduced in any form without express written consent from KometAmplification.

Thank you for purchasing a TrainwreckEngineeredTM KometTM Amplifier.
The KometSongwriter 30 is a straightforward and easy to operate amplifier. The goal of
this manual is to help you "get acquainted " with your Kometamplifier, and how to make
use of its many capable sounds.
FRONT CONTROL PANEL LAYOUT (left to right):
1. Power Switch: engages power to amplifier.
2. Standby Switch: allow the amplifier to warm up for 60 seconds before engaging the
standby switch to the play position. This action allows for the tubes to heat up to the
proper voltage required for operation and will help prolong the lifespan of your tubes.
3. Pilot Light:illuminates when power switch is in "On" position. The pilot light uses a
type #47 (6.3 Volt) light bulb. For bulb replacement, gently turn the jewel lens cap
counterclockwise and remove. Now the bulb is exposed. Using the tips of your
fingers, gently push and turn the bulb counterclockwise, extract bulb and replace.
Note: Your amplifier will continue to operate with no problem with a shorted bulb or
with no bulb at all.
4. Bass Control:controls low end bass range frequencies.
5. Volume Control: adjusts (clockwise) the overall level and gain of the amplifier.
6. Treble Control:controls high end treble range frequencies.
7. Bright Switch:Three way selector switch. Middle position is off, Down position -
slightly bright, Up position -most bright. Note: the brightness factor of this switch, in
either position of brightness, is subtle. See special note towards end of manual.
8. Input Jack: accepts standard ¼ inch plug. Input impedance is 1 Megohm.
Copyright 1999-2017, KometAmplification. Group, L.L.C. May not be reproduced in any form without express written consent from KometAmplification.

BACK CONTROL PANEL LAYOUT (left to right):
1. AC Input: this IEC receptacle accepts a standard DIN AC 16 gauge, three conductor
power cable. All Kometamplifiers can be internally modified to operate on either
120V or 240V only. Please inquire with KometAmplification for AC conversion
information.
2. Mains Fuse:3Amp "slow blow" fuse (a.k.a. MDL 3A - size: ¼ inch by 1 and 1/4 inch) is
used on 120V model, a 2Amp "slow blow" fuse on the 240V model. CAUTION:
ALWAYS MAKE SURE YOUR AMPLIFIER AC CABLE IS UN-PLUGGED
BEFORE REPLACING A FUSE.
3. H.T. (High Tension) "fast acting"fuse: 1/2 Amp or 500mA (a.k.a. AGC 500 mA - size:
¼ inch by 1 and ¼ inch). Should the H.T. fuse repeatedly fail in your Komet
amplifier, replace the fuse and replace the EL84/6BQ5 power tubes with a new
quartet with the correct IP (plate current draw) rating (see bias section). Your amp may
need servicing by an authorized technician if the problem persists. CAUTION:
NEVER REPLACE ANY FUSE WITH A HIGHER RATED FUSE.This will most
certainly cause severe damage to your amplifier.
4. Output Impedance Selector:set this selector according to the appropriate speaker
impedance you are using. 4, 8, and 16 Ohm settings are available.
5. Output Jacks: two, standard ¼ inch speaker jacks, wired parallel, which will
accommodate any quality standard speaker cable. Note:never use a shielded guitar
cable as a speaker cable. You can severely damage an amplifier.
6. Tube Chart: displays the placement of the power and pre amp tubes (V1 to V7).
TUBE CHOICES FOR THE KOMETSONGWRITER30
CAUTION: Always allow the power and pre amp tubes to cool down before handling. They
are made of glass and can easily break. Wear safety goggles and heat protective gloves when
handling hot tubes. Never remove or replace the power or pre amp tubes while an amplifier
is on.
The KometSongwriter 30 was designed and voiced to utilize current production tubes to
their maximum potential. The current stock power tubes (V3,V4,V5 and V6) are a matched set
of SovtekEL84/6BQ5s. This is a widely available and reliable power tube. We prefer the
Sovtek12AX7 LPS for the V1 (input stage) and V2 (the phase inverter position) positions.
(continued)
Copyright 1999-2017, KometAmplification. Group, L.L.C. May not be reproduced in any form without express written consent from KometAmplification.

The LPS is an excellent sounding 12AX7 and are used in all Kometamplifier models. The
re-issue SovtekMullard 12AX7 is another excellent 12AX7 option. With this factory stock
tube compliment, the KometSongwriter sounds powerful, complex and detailed. The
distortion is balanced and harmonically rich.
Please note: you may find that some pre amp tubes, whether newly manufactured, used, or
even n.o.s., may be too "microphonic" for the first gain stage (V1)of a Kometamplifier. A
microphonic preamp tube is a condition in which a tube will absorb mechanical vibration and
amplify it into the audible range. In this scenario, a tube can "feed-back", or give off a loud,
high pitched squealing noise. "Feed-back" can occur intermittently, even without an
instrument plugged into the input of the amp. This does not mean that the tube(s)are
completely unusable. One possible solution you can experiment with is moving the
microphonic tube to the V2 phase inverter socket where microphonics are not as noticeable.
The microphonic 12AX7 may be quieter in the V2 position as opposed to the V1 position.
Please note: a small amount of "hiss" is normal for high gain amplifiers. An excessive
amount of hiss, especially when the volume control of the amplifier is all the way down and
with no instrument plugged in the amplifier’s input, usually denotes a bad pre amp tube.
Some n.o.s. audio tube suppliers offer "select", or hand picked pre amp tubes, which are
superior in all aspects of quality, especially when it comes to being quiet and non-
microphonic.
Please note: your amplifier produces heat. Prolonged gigs, outdoor or non-climate controlled
venues, only multiply that factor. We suggest (after extended periods of play) that you allow for
a sufficient amount of time to pass so as to let your amplifier cool down prior to moving or
loading. This action will help protect and extend the lifespan of the audio tubes and internal
components from excessive vibration or damage.
Caution: please pay close attention when extracting and installing the power and pre amp
tubes. The pins of the tube - must align perfectly - into the tube’s socket. Bent pins,
especially when forced into a tube socket, can cause serious damage to an amplifier’s tube
socket pin inserts. 99% of the time this results with the tube socket needing to be replaced.
To avoid this contingency, we recommend that you purchase a miniature pinned, nine hole,
pre amp tube pin straightener. These can be found on line from many vintage tube retailers.
This easy to use device guarantees that your 12AX7 pre amp tube and 6BQ5/EL84 power
tube pins will be straight and aligned for socket insertion. NOTE:KometAmplification’s
warranty will not cover damage done to a tube socket’s insertion pins from forced or
accidental mis-alignment / and or bent / crimped insertion pins.
TUBE REPLACEMENT
A noticeable deterioration in your amplifier’s overall sound is an indication of an imminent
tube replacement. You may notice symptoms such as "muddy" or "saggy" power chords, a
loss of tightness or "punch", a weak sounding treble and bass, and loss of certain sonic
frequencies or note "bloom". We suggest that you first start by replacing your power tubes.
Pre amp tubes can last a very long time, and do not necessarily need to be replaced as often
as the power tubes. However, we do recommend that you have your 12AX7s properly tested
by a technician between servicing.
Copyright 1999-2017, KometAmplification. Group, L.L.C. May not be reproduced in any form without express written consent from KometAmplification.

BIASING THE KOMETSONGWRITER30
The KometSongwriter 30 is a cathode biased amplifier. An internal resistor sets the
amplifier’s power tube bias. A bias adjustment should not be necessary. To guarantee your
amplifier will operate properly in conjunction with the supplied voltages and current draw of
the Songwriter, we recommend that when you replace your power tubes, that you purchase
a matched set of EL84/6BQ5slabeled by the manufacturer with a low IP number (or a low
plate voltage / current draw number) or grade and labeled as well with a transconductance (Gm)
matching numbers.
Having matched power tubes ensures that all of the power tubes will operate and react
equally within the amplifier. Matched power tubes will also guarantee better harmonics,
sonic performance and extended tube life. Most reliable and reputable audio tube vendors
and n.o.s. tube dealers sell their power tubes in matched, output power or plate voltage /
current draw, numerically rated sets.
You should be able to request a certain IP (plate voltage /current draw) grade or range from
your tube vendor. Some tube vendors refer to their power tubes for their " break up "
characteristics by labeling their sets with terms like: "soft", "medium" or "hard". Usually,
power tubes labeled "soft" are the low plate current drawing type. Many vacuum tube
vendors use their own numeric measurement system. Some examples: the SovtekEL84
grade for the Songwriteris an IP number range from # 12 through # 15. The original
Groove Tuberating scale for the Songwriter 30 would be a grade #1through # 3.
Note: the 12AX7 pre amp tubes in your amplifier are internally self biased and need no
adjustment.
WARNING: Never remove any of the four EL84/6BQ5 power tubes in order to attempt
cutting the power of the amplifier in half. The KometSongwriter 30’s EL84 power tube
circuitry shares only one cathode resistor. Removal of one or more of the power tubes will
cause the other EL84s to catastrophically malfunction and fail.
Under-biased Power Tubes:
EL84/6BQ5 power tubes that are under biased, (or drawing too much current), usually have the
following symptoms: a low, background "hum" sound from the amp/speaker cabinet, which
may slowly get louder over time. You can easily inspect your amplifier for this problem.
Unplug and remove your guitar cable from the amplifier’s input. Carefully position your
amplifier where it can be easily and safely accessed from the rear (with speakers connected).
Turn the amplifier on, engage the standby to the on position after 60 seconds. Remove the
back panel so as to inspect the plates (the flat grey colored, metallic, square section inside the
center of the power tube/s) of the four power tubes (V3 through V6).
(continued)
Copyright 1999-2017, KometAmplification. Group, L.L.C. May not be reproduced in any form without express written consent from KometAmplification.

Do not confuse the yellow/orange filament glow on the top and bottom of the power tubes for
the center plates. If the grey colored plates in the center of any of the power tubes (V3 through
V6)are glowing a dull "red" or are "cherry colored" from the center, (see reference photo
below),then the power tubes are under biased and must be replaced with a lower (IP) plate
voltage / current drawing - set. If not replaced, the four power tubes will eventually begin
to “short out“, especially at higher volumes - causing the amplifier’s signal to cut in and out,
usually blowing the H.T. fuse, and completely failing in short order. Another sign of under-
biased power tubes - the descriptive, colored lettering/labeling on the tube(s) has turned a
bright, frosted white color, or occasionally - completely burned off.
SPEAKERS FOR THE KOMETSONGWRITER 30
The KometSongwriter 30 is a big sounding amp. It is voiced for a sparkling clean sound at
low volumes, - smooth, dynamic, and harmonic at higher volumes. In our opinion, these
characteristics are best complimented with a closed back, (preferably vintage) 4 X 12 speaker
cabinet. Our favorite reference speakers for Kometamplifiers in general are original coned,
vintage 12 inch Celestionspeakers from the 1960’s. You may come to a different
conclusion, depending on your playing style and preferences. A 2 X 12 cabinet, (opened or
closed back), is another excellent choice, but care should be taken to select speakers that can
handle the power, the low end, and attack.
(continued)
Copyright 1999-2017, KometAmplification. Group, L.L.C. May not be reproduced in any form without express written consent from KometAmplification.

The Komet Amplification speaker cabinet lineup is another excellent option. Please see our
website www.kometamps.com for full speaker cabinet information. Whichever cabinet you
do use, make sure you set the impedance selector correctly. If you use two cabinets, keep in
mind that the outputs are in parallel. This means that if you are operating the amplifier on
two, 16 Ohm cabinets, you must set the amplifier’s impedance selector to the 8 Ohm setting.
If you operating on two, 8 Ohm cabinets, set the selector to 4 Ohms. We do not recommend
using two, 4 Ohm cabinets. Speaker wiring diagrams are located at the end of this owner’s
manual.
A Special Note on Speaker Cable, Cabinets and Speakers: It is crucial that you always
maintain a solid, un-interrupted signal between your amplifier and speaker cabinet. Sub-
standard speaker cables as well as sub-standard cabinet wiring can become problematic,
intermittent and fail over time. This can possibly causing damage to your amplifier and
speakers. We recommend that you use quality brand speaker cables (18 gauge is sufficient)
made with quality male input plugs. The speaker cable plugs should be soldered directly on to
the internal speaker cable wires. Using a quality made speaker cable will ensure a tight fit
from the amplifier’s speaker jacks to the speaker cabinet.
Your speaker cabinet should be equipped with a quality brand input jack. We prefer and use
the Switchcraft#11 mono input on our cabinets, amplifiers and vintage repairs. Many
vintage speaker cabinets from the 1960’s to 1970’s used the #11 jack. It is reliable, solid and
time tested. Many modern made brand speaker cabinets use the Switchcraft#11, but not all.
Some manufacturers have their speaker jacks panel mounted on the back of their cabinets
which incorporate an internal circuit board on which the jacks are soldered. This type of
system is not designed for a type #11 jack, and conversion to the #11 can be very tedious. All
electrical work should be performed by a professional and knowledgeable technician.
We also strongly urge you to inspect and make sure that all of your internal speaker cabinet
wire leads are soldered at the speaker jack and soldered at the speaker terminals. We do not
recommend using the "slide on" type gripping speaker wire terminals. These grip type
terminals loosen over time causing an interruption or failure of the signal. These
recommendations help guarantee a solid, un-interrupted signal from the amplifier to the
speakers at all times.
NOTE:KometAmplification recommends using resistive load attenuation devices in
conjunction with any Kometamplifier and speaker cabinet. Please see our website
www.kometamps.com for further information on the KometAirbrakeattenuator. The
Komet Airbrake owner’s manual is also located at the end of this manual.
A Note Regarding the Bright Switch on the KometSongwriter30
The KometSongwriter’s three position bright switch is the only added feature that was not
incorporated on Ken Fischer’s original TrainwreckSongwriter’scircuit. We decided to
add this switch to allow the ability for a guitar player to achieve a slight variance in the
overall "brightness" of the amplifier, especially for guitar players with single coil pickups.
The brightness factor, as described in this owner’s manual, is subtle.
(continued)
Copyright 1999-2017, KometAmplification. Group, L.L.C. May not be reproduced in any form without express written consent from KometAmplification.

You may not notice a sonic difference in the "down" position where the amp is slightly
bright, and even in the "up" (most bright) position. This has led some Songwriterowner’s to
believe that the bright switch is not functioning correctly. We can assure you that this feature
is designed to function this way. It was our decision not to go overboard and add too much
brightness with this switch. Our goal is to keep this amplifier as close to the original circuit
as possible. The bright switch, when engaged in the center or "off " position, is as the original
Songwritercircuit was designed.
TROUBLESHOOTING
When troubleshooting a problem, we recommend that you remove all effects pedals and only
go direct with your guitar and guitar cable into the amplifier. Also, remove any attenuation
device from amp to speaker cabinet. This way you can easily and quickly rule out or discover
if your amplifier is the source of the problem.
Pilot Light Not On
- check to see if the amplifier’s AC cable is plugged in at wall and at the IEC connection at
the back of the amp.
- make sure the AC connection is secure and the IEC input is pushed in all the way.
- check the type 47 pilot light bulb. It may be burned out.
- check the 3amp "slow blow" AC supply "Mains" fuse to see if it is blown. Should your fuse
be blown, replace the fuse with a 3amp "slow blow"(a.k.a. MDL 3A 250V).
Mains Fuse "blowing"
- unplug amplifier from the wall AC. Remove the power tubes.
- install a new 3 amp "slow blow" fuse (2 Amp 240V).
- plug into the wall AC and turn the amp on (with no power tubes in the amplifier). Should the
"Mains" fuse continues to blow (with no power tubes in the amplifier), then there is a problem
and your amplifier will need to be serviced. If the fuse does not blow, and the amp lights up,
turn amp off, and install a new set of matched EL84 power tubes. Turn the amp back on. If
the fuse does not blow, play the amp and monitor.
- if the high voltage H.T. fuse blows, it is most likely a defective power tube, or your bias
setting / current draw may be too high.
(continued)
Copyright 1999-2017, KometAmplification. Group, L.L.C. May not be reproduced in any form without express written consent from KometAmplification.

Amp Lights Up,- No Sound
- check / test / replace - the 1/2 amp H.T.fuse for continuity with a digital Ohm meter. It
may be blown. Check the speaker connection at back of amp and at the input of cabinet.
- bypass all pedals and effects and plug your guitar into only the amplifier.
- check your guitar cable.
- check the power and the pre amp tubes and make sure that they are installed correctly and
that the filaments within each tube are lit. Sometimes they can look operational - (with the
filaments lit) - but be defective in not passing signal. This is rare, but can occur.
Amp is making a "Humming", "Hissing", "Feedback"or "Crackling"- sound
This is most likely a bad pre amp tube. Pre amp tubes can develop problems over their life
span. They may be operating flawlessly, and they may also test fine on a tube tester, but for
what appears like for no reason, can suddenly begin to make a "hissing" or a "crackling"
sound. They can begin to feedback or have microphonic or "ringing"symptoms. (See previous
section titled: ECC 83, 12AX7, 7025, and CV4004), or develop filament "humming" - which is a
low background hum, often mistaken for a problematic filter cap.
Filament "humming" is much more common with newer - modern available pre amp tubes.
Unfortunately, you will most likely have to replace one of more of your pre amp tubes with
any of these problems. This is another reason we stress purchasing n.o.s. tubes –they are less
likely to "go bad ". Fluorescent and neon lights, rheostat wall dimmers, and some
appliances may alos cause your amp to contain a "hum" or "buzz" sound. Also, check your
guitar cable if you discover that the problem is not a pre amp tube.
Over time, the input jack may occasionally make a "crackle"sound when you extract your
instrument cable from the front panel of your amp. This is usually due to a dust / contaminate
build up on the input jack’s ground shunt. This would require that the inside of the input jack
be cleaned professionally. We recommend using DeoxIT®Gold G5.
SERVICING THE KOMETSONGWRITER 30
We are very confident that your Kometamplifier is one of the most reliable amplifiers ever
built. A combined experience of many decades of design and service has been applied to the
construction of all Kometamplifier models. We have been inside thousands of amps and we
have seen every type of problem that can occur. Great care has been taken to anticipate and
prevent such problems in your Kometamplifier. Every part and component in this amp is
carefully chosen for its specific performance.
(continued)
Copyright 1999-2017, KometAmplification. Group, L.L.C. May not be reproduced in any form without express written consent from KometAmplification.

Some parts are proprietary or hard to find. We do not recommend replacing any of the
internal components with generic parts from different manufacturers. We also recommend
that you should bring your Kometamplifier to a qualified service technician if you do not
feel comfortable changing the tubes. Should your Kometamplifier ever need servicing or
repair, please make arrangements to have your amp shipped back to KometAmplification
for factory service.
CLEANING
We recommend cleaning your head box / tolex with a slightly damp, warm cloth towel.
Please be very careful when cleaning the front panel of your KometSongwriter 30 head
box. The plexi glass Kometlogo could possibly catch on a cleaning cloth. We recommend
that you clean the Kometlogo starting from the center of the logo - to the outer edges of the
amp. Repeat procedure always from the center. Avoid using T-shirts or cloths that contain
graphics or embroidery. They may scratch some surfaces of your amp. We prefer using a
microfiber cleaning cloth for the logo, control panels and metal surfaces.
A FINAL WORD
Your Kometamplifier was designed to be played and enjoyed. By virtue of its unmatched
quality, it will free you from thinking about your equipment and concentrate on the very
thing that matters: your music. The Komet'sresponsiveness, musicality and immediacy -
places you in charge of your sound. It can handle any live performance situation with ease
and power to spare and is voiced to cut through the band mix. Give yourself and your new
amp a little time to get to know each other. No matter how good it sounds right out of the
box, your amp will break in and improve tremendously after being played over time. The
harmonic complexity will continue to improve; the tone will sweeten up and become even
more fluid and resonant. Have fun!
Thank you for purchasing our product.
Holger Notzel
Michael Kennedy
Co-owners
KometAmplification

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:
• Dimensions: 20 5/8" long by 10" deep by 9 ½" tall
• Weight: 35 lbs. pounds
• Power: 30 Watts RMS (30 clean watts measured before distortion)
• Tubes: 2 - 12AX7 / ECC 83 4 - EL84 / 6BQ5
• Mains Fuse:3 Amp "slow blow" a.k.a. MDL 3A - rated at 250V (2 Amp / 240V operation)
•H.T. Fuse:½ Amp "fast acting" a.k.a. AGC 500mA - rated at 250V
CONTACT
KometAmplification
1865 Dallas Drive
Baton Rouge, LA 70806-1454
[phone]
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.kometamps.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Komet-Amplification/739410886107995
Tumbler: http://kometamplification.tumblr.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/kometamps
Komet warranty information located at end of owner’s manual.
Copyright 1999-2017, KometAmplification. Group, L.L.C. May not be reproduced in any form without express written consent from KometAmplification.

Tube Placement Instructions
Before you install your tubes, please read the last paragraph from
the section: TUBE CHOICES FOR THE KOMETAMPLIFIER
Unscrew (in small increments) the two, back panel insertion screws. Remove
the back panel evenly with two hands. Use the reverse instructions when
installing back panel.
Looking at back of your amp, observe the tube placement. There are seven tube
sockets in total. Starting from the left, the first four are the power tube sockets,
(V6, V5, V4, and V3). These sockets as well as V2 and V1 are miniature nine
pin pre amp tube types.
Each tube enclosed is labeled with a number for the tube’s required placement
within the amp. Please make sure to install each labeled tube into the correct
corresponding tube socket.
V3 through V6 are for the EL84/6BQ5 power tubes.
V1 and V2 are for the 12AX7 / ECC 83 pre amp tubes.
Gently install each tube in the correct corresponding tube socket. Please note
each tube ‘s pin configuration must be properly and perfectly aligned with the
tube socket for installation. Do not force a tube into its socket. If correctly
aligned, it should go into the socket easily.
Note: The “ V “ stands for “ valve “, - term as used in England for audio tubes.
Copyright 1999-2017, KometAmplification. Group, L.L.C. May not be reproduced in any form without express written consent from KometAmplification.

KometSpeaker Wiring Diagrams
Single 12” 16 Ohm Speaker
2 X 12” 8 Ohm Speakers in series for 16 Ohms
4 X 12” 16 Ohm Speakers in series / parallel for 16 Ohms
Note: KometAmplification recommends using a 16 Ohm load with their amplifiers for the best sonic
results.
Copyright 1999-2017, KometAmplification. Group, L.L.C. May not be reproduced in any form without express written consent from KometAmplification.

KometAirbrakeManual
Copyright 1999-2017, KometAmplification. Group, L.L.C. May not be reproduced in any form without express written consent from KometAmplification.

The KometAirbrakeUsers Manual
The KometAirbrakeis a resistive load power attenuator, which connects between an
amplifier’s speaker output jack and a speaker cabinet. It allows the user to "turn up" the
amplifier’s volume, utilizing the amplifier’s harmonically rich output stage distortion, while
reducing the signal sent to the speakers. This lowers the amplifier’s overall sound pressure
level and is useful when high volume is not required.
All power attenuators by design reduce the interaction between an amplifier’s output stage
and the speakers, which is a critical part of the sound and feel of a tube amp. An attenuator
can change the human ear’s perception of the frequency spectrum by reducing the sound
pressure level. Accordingly, there is no power attenuator that does not change the overall
sound of an amplifier.
The KometAirbrakesounds very natural and "transparent" at reasonable levels of
attenuation. It allows the user to bring the level of a 50 / 60 Watt Kometamplifier down
to that of a "cranked" 20 to 25 - watt amplifier, all the while retaining its distinct voice and
dynamics. It is therefore best suited to match Kometamplifiers to a smaller room, or in a
quieter playing setting.
Features of the KometAirbrake:
- operates on 8 or 16 speaker loads only.
- designed for a maximum power handling capability of 100 Watts.
- five graduated attenuation settings via a six position rotary switch.
- 3dB drop in first step of attenuation, approx. 1.7 dB each step after.
- the first (12 o’clock) position of the six position rotary switch is a true bypass
setting (under no attenuation).
- one input, two parallel output jacks.
- line level signal out control.
Copyright 1999-2017, KometAmplification. Group, L.L.C. May not be reproduced in any form without express written consent from KometAmplification.

Using the KometAirbrakePower Attenuator:
You will need two, quality constructed, standard speaker cables. At the bottom of the
KometAirbrake, below the Kometlogo, you will find three input jacks arranged in a
triangle formation. The top input jack (of the triangle formation) is the Airbrake’sinput.
Connect one speaker cable from one of the amplifier’s speaker outputs into the top input of
the KometAirbrake. Note: (see last page for descriptive layout).
The bottom two jacks of the triangle formation are the two parallel outputs. Connect the
second cable from one of the two KometAirbrakeoutputs into the speaker cabinet input.
If you only use one speaker cabinet, you may plug it into either one of the two, bottom output
jacks on the KometAirbrake. Note: (see last page for descriptive layout).
Set the amplifier’s impedance selector according to the impedance of the cabinet used.
Remember to always use dedicated speaker cables of a sufficient gauge (we prefer 18 gauge)
for both connections. WARNING: never use instrument (guitar) cable as a speaker
connection. By doing so will cause damage to the amplifier.
If you plug two speaker cabinets into the KometAirbrake’sparallel output jacks, make
sure both cabinets or both speaker loads are rated at 16. Keep in mind that the combined
load of both cabinets or both speaker loads will be 8. Set your amplifier’s impedance
selector accordingly to 8.
Do not use two, 8 speaker cabinets. The combined load will be 4, which is below the
KometAirbrake8/16 Ohm operating range. For the same reason, do not use two 4
cabinets. Never combine two cabinets of different impedance ratings (for example an 8cab
and a 16cab).
The line level signal out control is the cream colored knob located at the top of the
KometAirbrake. The line level output jack is located to the right of the cream colored
control knob. The line level signal out feature allows the user to send the un-attenuated signal
from the amplifier under attenuation, into another amplifier, say one with reverb or tremolo,
or send a signal to a recording or mixing console, or can be used to send the signal to a
wet/dry rig. Make sure you use a quality constructed shielded instrument / guitar cable for
this signal sending portion of the device.
If you use the line level signal out control to send a signal to a P.A. (public address) system,
make absolutely sure that the level control is set and not disturbed while in use. You could
possibly damage the P.A. system if the volume level/control knob were to be drastically
raised or quickly "turned up" while in use.
Copyright 1999-2017, KometAmplification. Group, L.L.C. May not be reproduced in any form without express written consent from KometAmplification.

Important:
We recommend that if you intend on using your KometAirbrakein conjunction with much
older, vintage amplifiers, that you set your vintage amplifier’s impedance selector to 8for
the first step of attenuation (or the first click of the rotary switch), regardless of an actual 16
Ohm impedance of the speakers or cabinet used. If your amp and speaker load is 8 set the
impedance selector to 4in the first step of attenuation. This precaution will lower the
current flowing within the output tubes under full power. We also recommend this same
action with EL84/6BQ5 powered amplifiers. Set the impedance selector of your vintage
amplifier according to the speaker impedance being used in any other step of attenuation past
the first click.
We recommend that you do not use the KometAirbrakewith a 100 Watt plus rated
amplifier for very long, extended periods at very high volume levels (or with the volume
controls “dimed out”). This is because the KometAirbrakeis a 100 Watt rated device.
Any 100W amplifier can surpass its 100W RMS rating when cranked way up. This could
possibly over-heat the attenuator causing damage to one or more of the load resistors. Note:
The Komet Airbrake will increase its ability to handle an amplifier’s wattage as the
attenuation level increases. The maximum load capability for the Komet Airbrake is 200
Watts under full attenuation. You should not have a problem using the Komet Airbrake with
a 100W amplifier, but it is always best to operate your 100W amplifier and attenuator within
reason.
Final note:
The KometAirbrakepower attenuator reduces volume by converting the amp’s excessive
power into heat. The device will get very warm, even hot, during use. Please make sure you
place the unit it in a well ventilated area and never have it covered up.
The KometAirbrakewas designed for optimum performance with Kometand
Trainwreckamplifiers. The KometAirbrakewill work equally well with most other
manufacturer’s amplifiers, but KometAmplification only guarantees safe operation with
Kometand Trainwreckamplifiers.
A Special Note on Speaker Cabinets and Speakers: we recommend that you use quality
speaker cable with quality brand male plugs. This is to guarantee a tight fit to the speaker
jacks and cabinet. We also recommend that no matter what brand cabinet you are using with
your amplifier, or any amplifier for that matter, that you use or replace the speaker cabinet
input jack with a quality brand jack. We prefer the Switchcraft#11 mono input. We also
recommend that your cabinet wire leads are soldered to the to the speaker terminals instead
of using the "slide on"gripping terminals.
Copyright 1999-2017, KometAmplification. Group, L.L.C. May not be reproduced in any form without express written consent from KometAmplification.