VVT AMPS Night Owl User manual

Night Owl
15W Combo
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 1 Amp Slo-Blo fuse. (I know the controls panel
says 2A Slo-Blo but it’s a mistake on the panel and will be corrected in
subsequent builds.) If a problem develops with the amp, the fuse will open and
the amp will not operate until it is replaced. After replacing the fuse, if the amp
does not operate or continues to blow the fuse, the amp needs service.
5. This amp is fixed bias. If the output tubes are replaced the amp will have to be
re-biased for the new tubes. The bias range resistor will need to be replaced to
set proper bias for the new tubes. This work should be done by a qualified
technician.

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. Gas/Diesel Powered Generators or DC-to-AC converters may damage the
power transformer.
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 1 Amp Slo-Blo fuse on the main control panel.
Replace this fuse with the same type and rating ONLY. I KNOW THE CONTROL PANEL
SAYS 2A SLO-BLO but it’s a mistake that will be corrected on subsequent amps. That’s
why I’m saying this again. Also, DO NOT defeat a blown fuse with a jumper, aluminum
foil, or other such nonsense. It’s dangerous as hell. It could kill you. Or worse, it could
cause a fire. Don’t be a stupid idiot imbecile. Seriously….

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
This is easy even if you are not mechanically inclined. There are only eight moving
parts
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. This is a switching jack. When a guitar cord is not
plugged in the input is grounded and vice versa. (So, yes, it is a moving part).
4. BRIGHT Switch: Down – Normal; Up – Bright
5. VOLUME Control: Controls the gain of the preamp and volume of the guitar or
instruments plugged into the INPUT Jack.
6. TONE Control: Minimum is less treble more bass. Max is less bass more treble.
Somewhere in the middle should be about right.
7 SPEED Control: Sets the speed of the tremolo. Minimum = Slow; Maximum = Fast
8. DEPTH Control: Duh…This control determines the strength of the tremolo.
Minimum = Less; Maximum = Too Much
9. FOOTSWITCH: OK. I lied. There are nine moving parts. The footswitch plugs in
to the RCA jack between the preamp tubes. The footswitch is not needed to operate
the tremolo; it works fine without the footswitch. However, the tremolo is not
absolutely 100% disabled unless the footswitch is plugged in and switched off.
IF YOUR AMPLIFIER WILL NOT TURN ON
Check power to the unit. Check for tripped household circuit breakers, unplugged extension
cords or power-strip switches that may be turned off. Unplug the amp and check the fuse on
the control panel. If the fuse is blackend or obviously open replace the fuse with the same
type and value. If the fuse blows again 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
[phone]

Night Owl Amp
Night Owl AmpNight Owl Amp
Night Owl 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. The Cabinet is guaranteed against structural defects 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
[email protected]. We will respond as soon as possible and make
arrangements to repair your amplifier. If your unit is out of warranty, VVT
Amps will r
epair your amplifier but you will be charged the current RATE for

Specifications:
Model Name
Night Owl – Guitar Amplifier
Product Number 909911221984 (Combo)
Model Number
11221984-0011 (Combo)
Series
Night Owl
Type
All Tube Amp
Audio Outpu
t
15 Watts into 8 ohms
Output Impedance
8 ohms
Speakers
1-10 Eminence 1058K (Alnico) or Celestion Ten 30 (Ceramic)
Channels
One
Features
100% Handmade TubeVacuum Amplifier
Solid Pine Cabinet,
Heavy Duty Handle,
Standby Switch,
Extension Speaker Jack (4 Ohms)
Tube Rectifier
Controls
Front Panel:
Instrument Input Jack
Bright Switch, Volume, Tone, Speed, Depth
1 Amp Slo-Blow Fuse
On/Off, Standby Switches
Back Panel:
Speaker Jacks (4/8 Ohm)
Covering
Brown Carved Leather Textured Vinyl with Beige Grille Cloth
Weight
25 lbs. (Combo)
Cabinet
Dimensions
Height: (Combo)
Width: 20”
Height: 17”
Depth: 10””
Tube Complement
1 X 5Y3 Rectifier Tube,
2 X TAD 6V6GT-STR Output Tubes
2 X JJ ECC83/12AX7 Preamp/Tremolo, Phase Inverter
Accessories
None
Options None
Introduced
8/2013
Notice: Product Prices, Features And Specifications Are Subject To Change
Without Notice