Matrix Elements GT800fX User manual

guitar amplification
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GT 800FXPOWER AMPLIFIERMATRIXgt series amplifiersuser manual models covered:gt800fx, gt1000fx (1u & 2u), gt1600fx
GT1000FX
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GT1600FX
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SIGNALSIGNALABPOWERonCHANNEL LEVELSGT1000FXPOWER AMPLIFIERMATRIX
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PAGE: 12 3-73-45-778-9 10-1314 1516-1718192021221Thank You Congratulations on the purchase of your new Matrix Professional Power Amplifier. Matrix amplifiers are the result of many decades of experience in the design of exceptionally robust and reliable amplifiers.They are designed to breathe life into your sound, by controlling your speakers with exacting authority through the uncompromising delivery of clean, undistorted power, from a package which is smaller and lighter than you might expect for the performance it delivers. This manual will help you to get the most from your amplifier. For maximum benefit, it is recommended that all instructions and warnings are carefully read. Also be sure to read the notices regarding correct wiring of output connectors as this impacts the operation of the amplifier.For warranty service, please retain your receipt and all packaging that comes with the amplifier, as it has been specifically designed to transport the amplifier safely. UnpackingPlease unpack and inspect your new amplifier for any damage that may have occurred during transit. If damage is found, notify the carrier immediately. Note: A suitable mains lead is provided and can be found packaged with the amplifier. PLEASE RETAIN ALL FACTORY PACKAGING FOR ANY FUTURE POSTAL TRANSIT. CONTENTS: 1. Thank You & Unpacking.2. Safety Notices & FCC Declaration.3. Layout:3.1 Front Panel.3.2 Rear Panel.4. Before You Start.5. Getting Started, Powering Up & Connections.6. Set-Up Examples.7. International Voltage Selection.8. Choosing Cables.9. Troubleshooting.10. Warranty.11. Care & Contact Us.12. Technical Specs.13. CE Declaration.14. Notes.

CAUTION:OBSERVE ALL SAFETY AND USAGE INSTRUCTIONS TO AVOID POSSIBLE DAMAGE TO EQUIPMENT AND EXPOSURE TO HAZARDS. THIS SYMBOL UNIVERSALLY FLAGS CAUTION NOTICES LETHAL VOLTAGES PRESENT AT SPEAKER, CABLE AND AMPLIFIER TERMINALS; ENSURE ALL WIRING IS SAFE AND CORRECT BEFORE USE. THIS SYMBOL ALSO UNIVERSALLY FLAGS ELECTRICAL HAZARDS DO NOT OPEN UNIT; LEAVE ALL INTERNAL SERVICE OPERATIONS TO A QUALIFIED TECHNICIAN. THIS PRODUCT IS CAPABLE OF PRODUCING SOUND PRESSURE LEVELS WHICH MAY DAMAGE HEARING. THE USER IS RESPONSIBLE FOR EXPOSURE LEVELS AND USE OF HEARING PROTECTION.OPERATING ENVIRONMENT:The amplifier is designed for use in environments which protect it from rain, unusually high air humidity and temperature. Place on a surface where it cannot be easily dislodged, potentially causing damage to the unit or injury to a person. Ensure that the location will not expose the amplifier to spillage of liquids/drinks, sprays/vapours or high humidity. Ensure the amplifier is installed in a place which is not subject to abnormally high temperatures and maintain sufficient ventilation to prevent overheating. For temporary use outside, apply similar caution however, careful to ensure placement accounts for changing weather conditions and that extreme wind/rain/heat will not find its way to the equipment. When taking any equipment from a cold environment (unheated storage, vehicles, etc), into a warm one, allow the equipment time to become acclimatised to the ambient temperature, as condensation is likely to form in the amplifier, potentially causing it to malfunction if put into service too soon.Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:— Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.— Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.— Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.— Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help. 2

3FRONT AND REAR PANEL LAYOUTS: 1U & 2U MODELSThe front and rear panels on 1U & 2U versions of the amps share the same features and layouts.
GT x x x FX
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1U MODEL (GT800 & GT1000) & 2U MODEL (GT1000 & GT1600)124
3
(1) Power Switch This switch controls the power supply to the amplifier. (2) Indicator Section, Status: a. Power IndicatorThis indicator shows when the amplifier is on and is receiving power. b. Parallel Mono Mode IndicatorThis indicator shows if (parallel) MONO mode is selected on the rear panel.For channel pair A and B only Input A will be used to drive both channels. Full independent level control of the amplifier output stages is still possible via the Gain controls. c. Bridged Mono Mode Indicator This indicator shows if Bridged mode is selected on the rear panel. It is most important that this indicator is not illuminated unless bridged mode is required. This is because when bridged mode is selected, Channel A will be out of phase with Channel B. This will result in poor bass response and an unsatisfactory sound if left and right outputs are used. In this mode Channel A controls the output level. d. Protect Indicator This indicator lights briefly during the power up cycle and also lights should a fault occur. Illumination of the protect indicator, shows that the output of the amplifier has been disconnected by means of an internal relay to protect connected speaker systems from being damaged by the fault. SIGNALSIGNALABPOWERonCHANNEL LEVELSGT x x x F XPOWER AMPLIFIERMATRIX
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(3) Gain Controls The level of each Channel is individually adjusted by these controls.Rotating these controls fully clockwise, results in no attenuation to the incoming audio signals. (4) Indicator Section, Signal levels: These show the (Peak) output level of the amplifier for each channel, in both Stereo and Mono modes. These will start to illuminate when a signal is present at the speaker sockets when driven above a threshold of approximately -9db. Note that for levels below this amount the led may not illuminate. The signal level lights are useful in indicating how much power is being sent to the speaker connected. The -9db threshold relates to approximately 12.5% of the amps available power at the load it is connected to. The table below gives the ratings at -9db for typical impedances connected. 4
4 Ohms
8 Ohms
16 Ohms
8 Ohms (Bridged)
16 Ohms (Bridged)
GT800FX
50
30
15
100
60
GT1000FX
60
40
20
120
80
GT1600FX
100
60
30
200
120
Signal lights starting to blink at -9dbFor every increase of 3db that occurs, a doubling of the power is needed, so to that effect, when the signal lights start to stay permanently on at -6db the power the amp produces is doubled. Most stage volumes will occur somewhere between the two
4 Ohms
8 Ohms
16 Ohms
8 Ohms (Bridged)
16 Ohms (Bridged)
GT800FX
100
60
30
200
120
GT1000FX
120
80
40
240
160
GT1600FX
200
120
60
400
240
Signal lights starting to stay on at -6dbbut if you’re happy with the volume levels and the signal lights are not lighting up, that’s fine!

5679851:AFor Bridged Output Use Socket Marked X - For Bridged Output Only !DO NOT REMOVE COVERSLETHAL VOLTAGES INSIDE. THIS EQUIPMENT MUST BEEARTHED. DO NOT USE INDAMP CONDITIONS.AC Power Supply Requirement110V 12A230V 6A 50 to60Hz
1/4” & XLR IN
1/4” & SPKN. OUT
+0 dBu/0.7V
+_
DESIGNED BY ANDREW HUNT AND MANUFACTURED IN THE UK BY MATRIXWWW.MATRIXGUITARAMPLIFICATION.COM
X
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1U MODEL (GT800 & GT1000) & 2U MODEL (GT1000 & GT1600)(5) Cooling Fan OutletsHot air exits here. Make sure all rear (and front) ventilation paths are free from obstruction and air flows freely, otherwise the amplifier will trip into thermal protect mode prematurely and in some extreme circumstances damage may occur. (6) Output ConnectorsThe Output sockets are Neutrik® Speakon / 1/4” combi connectors. They accept both Neutrik® NL2FC & 1/4” jack plugs (NL4FC accepted, however only terminal pair 1 carry signals). Avoid inferior alternatives, as they may present numerous hazards due to less than ideal construction.When inserting speakon plugs turn clockwise until you hear it click; This ensures correct connection has been made. To remove, pull back the levered tab and turn anti-clockwise.Ready-made, sensibly priced, quality interconnection leads suitable for use with the amplifier should be easy to source. However, with sufficient skill, it is possible to make/modify leads for the task.•Only the first two pins (+1 and -1) are used in this amplifier.•When utilising the 1/4” output option the centre pin (Tip) is connected to +1 & the outer sheath (Sleeve) is connected to -1. •For STEREO/MONO operation, unmodified “off the shelf” cables will usually work fine.•For BRIDGED MONO mode, Output is exclusively available from OUTPUT X, do not use at any other time. X1:AFor A+B Bridged Output Use Socket Marked X For Bridged Output Only !DO NOT REMOVE COVERSLETHAL VOLTAGES INSIDE. THIS EQUIPMENT MUST BEEARTHED. DO NOT USE INDAMP CONDITIONS.AC Power Supply Requirement110V 12A230V 6A 50 to60Hz+_NL21/4”NL21/4”NL21/4”Both Input and Output ConnectorsAccept 1/4” Jackplugs in Addition to XLR/NL2+0 dBu/0.775V DESIGNED BY ANDREW HUNT AND MANUFACTURED IN THE UK BY MATRIX
WWW.MATRIXGUITARAMPLIFICATION.COM1:X
1/4” & SPKN. OUT
1/4” & XLR IN
+

6CAUTION: Whilst we recommend that Neutrik speakon connections are always used for the safest way of connecting to the amplifier, the option is also provided to use 1/4” jack connections with these outputs. Take extra care when connecting leads to ensure that these are not accidentally connected to the inputs and outputs of other equipment not designed specifically to do so, otherwise damage to equipment is likely to occur.(7) Input Signal Sockets.These are Neutrik® combined female XLR and 1/4" jack sockets.For cable runs of under 12”, (ie. within a rack system) standard good quality instrument leads should provide a similar level of RF shielding to XLR cables. For longer cables runs, balanced cables (XLRs) are recommended.Take extra care with 1/4” jack speaker connections, the exposed plug end can present an electric shock hazard, also never allow the outputs to be shorted, equipment damage may occur. Finally, never use standard 1/4” instrument leads for connection between amplifier and loudspeaker, choose a quality speaker lead for this specific task for safe operation. and optimal performance. (8) Output Mode Selector.STEREO, MONO or BRIDGED (mono) Output can be selected using this switch.Take care to ensure the correct mode for your application is selected.•In Stereo mode, channels A and B operate independently, when fed with separate input signals. (Think of this as two separate mono amps fed by their own input.)•In Parallel (Mono) mode, Input A is connected to feed both amplifier channel A and B. Input B is not used. Full independent level control over each amplifier output channel remains possible. (This is useful if you want to send the same mono signal to two separate cabs).•In Bridged (Mono) mode, the input from channel A is fed out of phase to channel B and combined to give a higher power mono output.Note: Bridged Output X is used exclusively for this mode, do not use at any other time. Using output channel A or B whilst Bridged mode is selected will give a thin, out of phase sound, lacking bass through those outputs.

7BEFORE YOU START: If you intend to rack mount your GT series amplifier you may want to consider removing the rubber feet from the amplifier to allow maximum room for other units that may share the rack space. This is a simple process. Using a small flat bladed screwdriver gently prise the shiny plastic insert up from the chassis which will enable the feet to be removed. Store somewhere safe!! To replace the feet simply pull the plastic insert so the mechanism is closed, line up the foot with the chassis hole and push into place. 1234123(9) Power ConnectionMains power is supplied to the amplifier by a standard 10 Amp IEC mains socket.An appropriate mains lead is supplied with the amplifier. Note: The amplifier requires a stable power supply to function as intended. Ensure that the power source (mains power supply, generator, etc.) is suitable for this application and adequate power is available. Poorly selected power sources result in sub-optimal performance, increased likelihood of tripping breakers, blowing fuses and in extreme situations damage to equipment may occur.

GETTING STARTED, POWERING UP & CONNECTIONS: Your GT Series amplifier comes equipped with a power lead specific for the requirements of your country. Use only the correct lead with the correct rated fuse for your country’s power requirements. Use of an incorrect lead or fuse rating could lead to damage of your amplifier.81.Connect the supplied mains power lead to the IEC inlet on the rear of the amp.2. Connect the signal source (this can be your pre-amp, modelling device or main outs from your effects unit) to the inputs on the rear of the amp. If you are running in mono from your source, then only use one channel of the amp and keep the amp in stereo mode. Note: If you are running the Matrix amp as part of a wet/dry or wet/dry/wet system then make sure the connections between your ampfier or source are in place to the effects system you intend to use before feeding the signal to the Matrix amp.3. Connect the GT amplifier to a speaker or cabinet with a good quality speaker cable. Never use a screened (shielded) guitar cable for this as you may damage the cable and the amplifier. The GT-series amps will accept various standard impedance cabinets and even non standard but bear in mind that the total load must NOT exceed 4 ohms per channel (or 8 ohms in bridged mode). 4. Making sure that the amp is turned off at this point, power up your signal source (this prevents any unwated signal noise transmitted to your speaker(s). Now with the volumes on the amp all the way down, power on the amplifier via the power switch located on the front. You may hear a slight “thump” as the unit is powered on. This is perfectly normal.5. Adjust the controls of the input source to a required level (ideally 0db or .775v) and steadily increase the GTs volume until a sufficient level is achieved. 6. Adjust the levels of the relevant volume controls on the Matrix amp until desired volume is achieved. NOTE: Unlike a Valve powered amplifier, it is not necessary to connect a speaker (or load) to the amp whilst it is powered on. Powering on or operation of the amp without a speaker or load attached will NOT damage the amplifier.

9NOTE: The Matrix’s volume controls are basically attenuators. That means that to achieve full power at their specified load they requires a signal of .775v (0db) and the volume knobs up full. If you put a higher level signal into the amp, it will achieve it's full power rating earlier than at full volume position and inversely, if you put a lower level signal in, say -6db, the amps full volume will always be -6db of full power rating. If your volume is lower than expected even with the Matrix amp on full then look to increse the signal level going into the amp. This could be the individual patch volume or the master volume of the unit or indeed the send level of a preamp. Be aware of the noise floor of a unit as well. Turning something up full will usually turn up the amount of noise the unit generates. The Matrix units are obviously designed to be turned up full and have a low level of noise/distortion but you may experience issues if you turn up the signal being fed into the Matrix too much and have the volume of the amp set too low. Important Notice regarding connection to multiple input and switchable input cabinets. Care must be taken when connecting the amp to any cabinet that has more than one jack plug or socket or features switchable stereo/mono operating modes. Certain cabinets are known to have more than one socket but are not stereo capable cabs. Orange® 2x12 and 4x12 cabs for instance have two unlabeled parallel inputs. Connecting the amplifier to both inputs effectively shorts the amplifiers outputs and will cause damage to the amplifier. This will not be covered under warranty. Similarly, cabinets which feature stereo/mono switchable inputs (Marshall® style) must always be switched to stereo operation when both channels of the amplifier are connected to it. Switching to mono mode will turn the input into a parallel output and again effectively link and short the amps channel outputs together. If you are unsure of your cabinets’ specifications, please refer to the manufacturer’s instructions or consult a qualified technician for guidance. Care must also be taken with Mesa® style cabinets to use the applicable socket for stereo or mono and manually switch to the correct one(s). If in doubt consult your cabinets manual or relevant support page.