User manual HUGHES & KETTNER BASSBASE600

[. . . ] The LEDs illuminate to indicate the current switching status. 3 NOTE: To use either the Stageboard or MIDI to operate the BassBase, please ensure that all switches on the front panel of the unit itself are OUT (not depressed). Alternatively, to operate the BassBase using either the front panel switches or MIDI, ensure the Stageboard is either unplugged or completely switched off (that is, no Stageboard LEDs are on). Once the MSM 1 MIDI Module has been installed, you can switch EQ sections and activate the FX loop via MIDI commands. Using MIDI to handle the simultaneous switching of the BassBase 600 and your FX processor leaves you free to concentrate on your music. Please refer to the MSM 1 Instruction Manual for detailed information on installation and MIDI operation. 4. 0 OPERATING THE BASSBASE 600 4. 1 THE INPUT SECTION AND BASIC EQ SECTION The response of the BassBase 600 tube preamp stage depends in large part on your instrument, its pickups and signal level, and your playing style. The -10 dB and GAIN controls simplify and significantly expedite your search for the proper level. [. . . ] The filters, rather than being geared to a fixed frequency range, are variable, enabling you to fine-tune your tone for a truly musical result. This frequency diagram depicts the effects of the VARIMETRIC EQ on the lower-midrange. As clearly illustrated, the boost of a complete octave range is very well-rounded and even, ideal for clearly establishing the basic sound character. Attenuation occurs at a much narrower bandwidth to allow you to accurately target undesirable frequencies. If you amplify a given frequency range, the frequencies bordering its outer parameters are smooth out with a touch of attenuation, and if you attenuate a given frequency range, the frequencies bordering its outer parameters are gently amplified, achieving an audio contour which intensifies the overall EQ effect. Mid/Treble equalization: The higher the frequency, the broader the bandwidth processed by the VARIMETRIC EQ, much in the way the human ear registers the upper end. Attenuation occurs at a much narrower bandwidth so you can accurately target undesirable frequencies and avoid the dreaded broad-band hollow midrange effect. 4. 3 THE NOTCH FILTER Undesirable frequencies such as those caused by resonating objects in the room or floor boards in the stage can be suppressed via the NOTCH FILTER. The NOTCH FILTER operates in extremely narrow bandwidths to avoid altering the overall sound. Adjust the NOTCH FILTER as follows: 6 - Turn the NOTCH FILTER LEVEL control all the way up so you can clearly hear the attenuated frequency. - Turn the FREQUENCY knob until you locate the frequency responsible for the sympathetic vibrations; the NOTCH FILTER will suppress it. - Now turn the LEVEL control to just below the point where the resonance sets in, thus ensuring that the filter has a minimal effect on the overall sound. It does take a bit of practice to get the hang of the NOTCH FILTER, as the human ear cannot readily identify attenuated narrow bandwidths. 4. 4 THE BASSBASE 600 AND FX PROCESSORS The BassBase 600 is equipped with a parallel FX loop. The processed signal is mixed with the original signal (i. e. the BassBase preamp signal) so that the original signal is still audible during the brief interruptions caused by multieffects processor switching. The FX-MIX knob controls the dry/wet mix. NOTE: As a rule of thumb, the best method for using signal processors is to set the device so that its output is all effect, then to mix the original signal with the processed signal via the FX-MIX control. This will avoid the tone degradation often caused by effects devices. - Activate the FX loop via the FX SELECTOR SWITCH. - Adjust the FX loop's level to your FX processor's input level. Press the -10 dB button for effects devices that are designed for instrument levels. If the button is not pushed in, the signal remains at standard line level for 19" rackmounted processors. - Adjust the blend between the original and processed signal via the FX MIX pot located on the front panel. Towards DRY = more original signal, towards WET = more processed signal. NOTE: Some signal processors cause phase cancellations that are detrimental to the overall sound (washed-out tone, lower output level at the 12 o'clock position). In this case, turn the BassBase FX control all the way to the right (WET). The effects loop then operates as a conventional serial loop, i. e. the volume relationship between the original and the processed signal must be adjusted at the processor. 7 TIP 1: If you choose not to connect a signal processor/effects device to the FX loop, you can connect another instrument or tape deck. For instance you could connect a guitar, keyboard, drum machine, tape player, etc. Connect the additional device as described above and use the FX-MIX knob as the volume balance control between your bass and the external signal source. TIP 2: Another option is open to you if you do not connect a signal processor: You can use the loop to activate an additional MASTER volume for the BassBase. To use the FX-Mix control this way: - Activate the FX LOOP. - Dial in a separate MASTER VOLUME setting via the FX MIX pot (to the left towards DRY = volume down, to the right towards WET = volume up). - You can switch back and forth between the two MASTER VOLUMES via the FX footswitch. Once the BassBase has been equipped with the MSM 1 MIDI Module, you can also activate the second MASTER VOLUME via MIDI messages. 4. 5 THE BASSBASE 600 AND MIDI Once the MSM 1 MIDI Module has been installed, you can execute many of the switching operations of your BassBase via MIDI. Simultaneous switching of both the BassBase 600 and the multi-effects processor offers optimum operational simplicity. Consult the MSM 1's instructions for detailed information on the installation procedure. BassBase 600 MIDI operations are also described in the MSM 1 Module's operators manual. 4. 6 THE ACTIVE CROSSOVER 8 The BassBase 600 is equipped with an active crossover. [. . . ] - The BassBase 600's preamp is overloaded. - The BassBase 600's FX LOOP is overloaded. Briefly disconnect the FX processor from the loop. If the CLIP LED no longer illuminates, you must reduce the processor's output level. E7) When using the LINE OUT or HF OUT jacks, you experience annoying hum. [. . . ]