VVT AMPS Nighthawk 45 User manual
N
ighthawk
VVT
45
Hand Crafted Tube Guitar Amplifier
VVT Amps
520 University Dr.
Waldorf, MD 20602
240-222-3830
www.vvtamps.com
Important Information:
1. Please read all of the information contained in this document.
2. HUM - Some hum or amplified noise is normal. As the volume is increased
some amplified noise may be noticeable and will be more apparent in a small
quiet room. Additionally, tubes have inherent noise as do resistors. However,
excessive hum (noise) can be caused by electronic devices located near the amp
or on the same circuit such as neon signs, fridges, fluorescent lights, computers,
light dimmers, aquarium pumps, etc. Hum can vary with different outlets,
rooms or buildings.
3. Do not operate this amp without a speaker load.
4. This amp is equipped with a 2A thermal circuit breaker instead of a fuse. If a
problem develops with the amp, the circuit breaker will open and the amp will
not operate until the circuit breaker is re-set. The circuit breaker is located on
the bottom of the amp chassis behind the rectifier tube. After re-setting the
circuit breaker, if the amp does not operate or continues to pop the breaker, the
amp needs service.
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
WARNING: This guitar amplifier contains lethal HIGH VOLTAGE. To avoid risk of
injury or death from electric shock, do not open the enclosure or remove the back cover
from the amplifier. Refer all service work to qualified personnel.
WARNING: This amplifier contains Vacuum Tubes. Vacuum tubes are heated to produce
electrical currents and they get HOT. Touching this surface could result in bodily injury.
To reduce the risk of injury from a hot component, allow the surface to cool before
touching. DO NOT touch or attempt to remove vacuum tubes until they have had time to
cool.
IMPORTANT! FOR YOUR PROTECTION, PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING:
WATER AND MOISTURE: This amplifier 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 amplifier should only be connected to a 120VAC household
power source.
GROUNDING OR POLARIZATION: Precautions should be taken so that the grounding or
polarization is not defeated. Do not remove the ground from the power cord.
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
amplifier.
SERVICING: You should not attempt to service this amp beyond that described in the
operating instructions. All other servicing should be referred to qualified service personnel.
FUSING: Your amplifier is equipped with a thermal circuit breaker located on the bottom
of the chassis behind the rectifier tube.
MAINTAINING YOUR AMPLIFIER
1. Conductive foreign objects could produce a short circuit that could cause fire, electric
shock, or damage to your amplifier. Avoid spilling liquids or allowing any other foreign
matter inside the unit. The panel of your unit can be wiped from time to time with a dry or
slightly damp cloth in order to remove dust and bring back the new look. As with all
electronic equipment, avoid prolonged use in caustic environments (salt air). If used in such
an environment, be sure the amplifier is adequately protected.
2. Your amp was designed for an 8 Ohm speaker load. The speaker load is reflected back
to the primary of the output transformer and output tubes. DO NOT operate this amplifier
with any speaker load other than that specified. DO NOT operate this amp without a
speaker load. Failure to follow these instructions could seriously damage your amp and
may void any warranty.
3. The vacuum tubes in your amplifier are not solid state devices. They do, and will wear
out over time. The life expectancy of the tubes depends on the amount of time you use your
amplifier. If you replace your tubes they should be replaced with the same type as
originally installed. VVT Amps only guarantees tubes originally installed/delivered with
the amplifier.
4. The tolex fabric covering the cabinet should be cleaned periodically with a soft damp
cloth. Make sure that the amp is turned off and unplugged before cleaning the cabinet. Do
NOT use spray cleaners as overspray may cause corrosion of the faceplate, chassis, or
electrical components. Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight. Do not allow the amplifier to
get wet. Don’t set your drink on it either. Use care when moving or storing the amp; the
tolex could rip or tear. Accidental damage to the cabinet or tolex is not covered by your
warranty.
USING YOUR AMPLIFIER
1. POWER Switch: In the ON position Applies AC power to the transformer. In the
OFF position removes power from the transformer.
2. STANDBY Switch: In the OFF position, the STANDBY Switch allows AC voltage
to the tube filaments but stops DC voltages to the tubes. When you turn the amp on,
allow the tubes to warm up 10 or 15 seconds before placing the STANDBY switch
in the ON position. The amp will not operate unless the STANDBY switch is in the
ON position.
3. INPUT Jack: Guitar input
4. BRIGHT Switch: Down – Normal; Up – Bright
5. JUMP Switch: Down – Normal; Up jumpers both channels
6. VOLUME Control: Controls the gain of the preamp and volume of the guitar or
instruments plugged into the INPUT Jack. When the JUMP Switch is up this
controls the volume of gain stages.
7. BUMP Switch: Adds a fixed amount of gain.
8. TONE Controls: Treble, Middle, Bass.\
9 MASTER VOLUME: When switched on, this controls the overall volume of the
amplifier. If the MV is switch off it is removed from the circuit and is non-functional.
9. PRESENCE Control: Adjusts the perceived frequency response of the output stage.
IF YOUR AMPLIFIER WILL NOT TURN ON
Check the power to the unit. Check for tripped household circuit breakers, unplugged
extension cords or power-strip switches that may be turned off. Check the amps circuit
breaker located behind the 5U4 Rectifier tube. If the breaker is popped, re-set the breaker
and test your amp. If the circuit breaker continues to pop the amp need service. Also, check
your input and speaker output cables.
VVT Amps wants you to be happy with your amp so, if there are certain tonal
characteristics that you desire, we will assist you in those endeavors and make every effort
to help you get your mojo. There are many options for capacitors, transformers, and
speakers available at prices ranging from modest to outrageous. All of these components
affect the tone of your amplifier. Let us know if we can help.
About VVT Amplifiers
VVT Amplifiers makes vintage and modern style tube guitar amplifiers available to those
musicians who want great guitar tone . The VVT Amps workshop is located at:
520 University Dr.
Waldorf, MD 20602
(240) 222-3830
All VVT amps are built by hand. We also make cabinets and chassis for our custom amps.
We use various sources for vintage reproduction cabinets and chassis that we believe offer
the best durability, value, and style.
VVT Amps does not service solid state equipment of any brand
N
ighthawk Amp
LIMITED WARRANTY
This amp is guaranteed against failure. Vacuum tubes are guaranteed for 60
DAYS from the date of purchase. If a tube fails within the 60 day period,
VVT Amps will replace the tube at no charge. The speaker is guaranteed for
ONE YEAR. All other electronic components are guaranteed for FIVE
YEARS. VVT Amps will service your amplifier and supply all parts at no
charge providing the unit is under warranty. Any shipping costs associated
with repairs are your responsibility. VVT Amps DOES NOT PAY FOR
PARTS OR SERVICE OTHER THAN OUR OWN. A COPY OF THE
ORIGINAL SALES RECEIPT IS REQUIRED TO VERIFY YOUR
WARRANTY. VVT Amps assumes no responsibility for external speakers
or other equipment damaged by this guitar amplifier. 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. Accidental damage to the amplifier, cabinet, or
Tolex is not covered. This warranty is in lieu of all other warranties,
expressed or implied. No representative or person is authorized to represent
or assume for VVT Amps any liability in connection with the sale or
servicing of VVT Amp products. VVT Amps SHALL NOT BE LIABLE
FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES. If service is
required you may contact VVT Amps at 240-222-3830 or
arrangements to repair your amplifier. If your unit is out of warranty, VVT
Amps will repair your amplifier but you will be charged the current RATE for
p
arts and labor.
Specifications:
Model Name Nighthawk 45 – Guitar Amplifier
Product Number 90999052192 (Combo); 90999052193 (Head)
Model Number 072151-0022 (Combo); 072151-0023 (Head)
Series Nighthawk
Type All Tube Amp
Audio Output 45 Watts into 8 ohms
Output Impedance 8 ohms
Speakers 1-15" Eminence 1518 - Combo Only
Channels Two Channels (Jumped)
Features 100% Handmade Amplifier
Solid Pine Cabinet,
Heavy Duty Handle,
Standby Switch,
Extension Speaker Jack,
Tube Rectifier
Controls Front Panel:
Instrument Input Jack
Bright Switch, Jump Switch, Volume, Bump Switch, Treble,
Middle, Bass, Master Volume, Presence. On/Off, Standby
Back Panel: (Chassis)
Speaker Jack s
2A Circuit Breaker
Covering Emerald Textured Vinyl with Beige Grille Cloth
Weight 45 lbs. (Combo); 29 lbs (Head)
Dimensions Height: " (Combo) (Head)
Width: 20” TBD
Height: 20” TBD
Depth: 10” TBD
Tube Complement 1 X 5AR4/GZ34 Rectifier Tube,
2 X JJ KT66 Output Tubes
3 X JJ ECC83/12AX7 Preamp/Phase Inverter
Accessories None
Options 1X15 Extension Cabinet w/Eminence 1518 150W Speaker
Introduced 5/2012
Notice Product Prices, Features And Specifications Are Subject To Change
Without Notice
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