B2/B2R Bass Amplifier

Troubleshooting

In the unlikely event that your B2/B2R should malfunction, take a few minutes to troubleshoot it before you call for ser- vice. You can save yourself a lot of time and sometimes money by doing it yourself, and often the cure for 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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LOUD HUM

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NO CHANGE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SOUND OK

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Check inst. pickup

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Replace cable

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SOUND OK

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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 infor- mation. Also, you should refer your amp to an authorized service center for servicing if it gets dropped, has liquid spilled into it, or sustains damage to its power cord (see page 3).

System Block Diagram

INPUT

PRE

BALANCED

LINE OUT

POST

-15dB -20dB

PEAK LED

GAIN

BASS ULTRA MID TREBLE

LIMIT

LED

PROTECTION

POWERRELAY AMP

LIMIT

THERMAL

ON

SHUTDOWN,

LOW VOLTAGE,

 

COOLING

DC PROTECT

 

FAN

 

MASTER

EQ

9 BAND EQ

ON

 

 

SPEAKON® JACK

SPEAKER OUTPUT

SPEAKER OUTPUT

POWER

AMP IN

PREAMP

OUT

EFFECTS

RETURN

EFFECTS

SEND

7

Page 7
Image 7
Ampeg B2R manual Troubleshooting, System Block Diagram

B2R, B2 specifications

The Ampeg B2 and B2R are renowned bass amplifiers that have carved a niche for themselves in the music industry, particularly among bass players seeking powerful, versatile, and high-quality sound. These models exemplify Ampeg's long-standing heritage in producing exceptional bass amplification products.

At the heart of the B2 and B2R amplifiers is a solid-state design that ensures reliability and exceptional performance. The B2 model features 100 watts of power, making it suitable for practice sessions and smaller gigs. Meanwhile, the B2R pushes the envelope with 200 watts, allowing it to perform effectively in larger venues without compromising sound quality or clarity.

One of the standout features of both models is the built-in preamp, which includes Ampeg's signature tone stack. This circuitry enables players to shape their sound with precision, offering controls for treble, midrange, and bass frequencies. Whether you desire a punchy tone or something more subdued, the B2 and B2R offer the flexibility to achieve your preferred sound.

Both amplifiers also feature an equalization section that allows for deep tonal control, ensuring that every note played translates into a captivating sound. Additionally, they come equipped with a parametric midrange control, giving players the ability to specifically target frequencies for further refinement.

The B2 and B2R also boast an innovative direct output feature, making it easy to connect to recording devices or mixing consoles. This means musicians can achieve that rich, Ampeg tone even during studio sessions without needing to mic an amp. The inclusion of a headphone jack also enhances their usability, allowing for silent practice.

Durability is key in live performance settings, and Ampeg has built the B2 and B2R to withstand the rigors of touring and gigging. The rugged construction and high-quality components ensure that these amplifiers deliver reliable performance time after time.

In conclusion, the Ampeg B2 and B2R amplify the essence of what makes Ampeg a respected name among bass players. The combination of powerful output, versatile tonal shaping options, and robust design creates a compelling choice for any bassist looking to enhance their sound and performance. Whether on stage or in the studio, these amplifiers continue to be favorites among musicians striving for excellence in their craft.