Ampeg manual Presets, Programming the B500DR, Troubleshooting

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B500DR Programmable Bass Amplifier

Presets:

The B500DR has four presets which may be selected by the front panel Presets switches (#11) or by the AFP4D four button footswitch. When the B500DR is powered up, it defaults to Preset 1 - the controls will reset themselves to that Preset and the LEDs will change accordingly to indicate Preset 1’s settings. The LED adjacent to the Preset 1 switch illuminates accordingly. When a footswitch is used, the LED adjacent to the footswitch pushbutton illuminates brighter than the other three LEDs - a feature performing musicians will find very useful when playing in darkened venues.

Programming the B500DR:

To program one of your settings into one of the presets, adjust the front panel controls to the desired setting. Depress and hold the desired Preset switch (1 through 4) until the LEDs adjacent to the Preset switches flash. Your new setting is now stored as a preset. The LEDs will stop flashing after approximately 1-2 seconds. The LED adjacent to the programmed Preset switch will remain illuminated.

When you manually change the position of one of the controls, the LEDs around the affected control flashes to show that the setting has been changed. The LEDs stop flashing when you either program the new setting into a Preset, select a different Preset, or return the control to its original position for the selected Preset.

The front panel Preset switches and the footswitch may be used concurrently. The LEDs on the front panel and on the footswitch indicate which Preset is active regardless of how the Preset was selected (by the front panel switches or by the footswitch).

Troubleshooting

In the unlikely event that your B500DR should malfunction, take a few minutes to troubleshoot it before you call for service. You can save yourself time and money by doing it yourself, and often the problem is something quite simple.

NO SOUND

 

 

LEDs LIGHT

 

 

 

 

LEDs DON'T LIGHT

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Check amp controls, check

 

 

 

 

Check AC outlet

 

 

 

 

for signal from bass

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OUTLET OK

 

NO POWER

 

 

NO SOUND

 

 

SOUND OK

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Check power cord,

 

Check house fusebox

Listen for hum

 

 

 

fuse, power switch

 

or circuit breaker

NO HUM

HUM

OK

Check speaker

 

 

 

Unplug bass,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

touch tip of cable

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Speaker OK

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NO CHANGE

 

 

 

 

SOUND OK

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Replace cable

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NO CHANGE

SEE BELOW

 

 

POOR SOUND

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Check bass, cables

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

POOR SOUND

 

 

 

SOUND OK

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Check speaker(s)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SPEAKER(S) OK,

 

SPEAKER(S)

 

 

POOR SOUND

 

DEFECTIVE

 

Replace speaker(s)

POOR SOUND SOUND OK

SEE BELOW

If the problem isn’t covered above, or if the steps lead you here, then contact your Ampeg dealer for service informa- tion. Also, you should refer your amp to an authorized service center if it gets dropped, has liquid spilled into it, or sustains damage to its power cord.

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Contents B500DR B500DR Programmable Bass Amplifier Features Front Panel 22 23 Rear PanelRack Mounting Some Suggested SettingsTroubleshooting PresetsProgramming the B500DR System Block Diagram Technical SpecificationsPage Page Page Page Page Page Page Page Page Page

B500DR specifications

The Ampeg B500DR is a powerful and versatile bass amplifier, designed to provide bassists with superior sound quality, performance, and reliability. With its rich heritage rooted in the history of bass amplification, the B500DR is part of Ampeg’s legendary line-up, ensuring that it meets the high demands of both live performances and studio recordings.

One of the standout features of the B500DR is its robust 500-watt output, which delivers enough power to handle virtually any performance situation. This amp is equipped with a 4-band EQ section, allowing bassists to shape their tone with precision. The EQ comprises frequency controls for low, low-mid, high-mid, and treble, providing a wide range of tonal possibilities. The addition of a built-in compressor further enhances its capabilities, allowing players to maintain dynamic control, producing a tight and punchy sound.

The B500DR utilizes Ampeg's innovative tube preamp technology, which imbues the sound with warmth and character that solid-state amps often lack. The use of 12AX7 tubes gives the amplifier a classic tonal quality that bassists crave. This, coupled with a solid-state power section, ensures that the amp can deliver both the richness of tube sound and the reliability of solid-state performance.

Another notable feature is the Rear panel's versatile connectivity options, including XLR direct outputs, allowing for easy integration into any live or recording environment. The headphone output is perfect for practicing silently without disturbing others. Additionally, the B500DR is equipped with an auxiliary input, making it easy for players to jam along with their favorite tracks.

The B500DR's rugged construction is designed to withstand the rigors of touring. Its durable enclosure and high-quality components ensure it can handle the stresses of frequent transport. The flexible cabinet design allows it to pair well with a variety of speaker cabinets, providing even more sound options.

In conclusion, the Ampeg B500DR is a comprehensive solution for bassists looking for a powerful, flexible amplifier that doesn't compromise on tone or performance. With its advanced features, reliable technology, and exceptional sound quality, the B500DR stands out as a top choice among both professional and aspiring bass players alike. Whether on stage or in the studio, this amplifier is built to impress and deliver the goods.