Ashdown Design & Marketing Electric Blue Amplifier manual

EQUALISATION - This consists of BASS, MIDDLE and TREBLE controls with two more rotary controls placed in-between. This can be used in a number of ways:

Firstly as a very simple Bass, Middle and Treble tone control section as found on older traditional amplifiers. This is done by leaving the 340Hz and 1.6kHz controls set in their centre positions and using only the BASS, MIDDLE and TREBLE controls to alter the overall tone.

Secondly, If more control is required then the 340Hz and 1.6kHz controls can also be used to tailor the E.Q. in the regions between the main tone controls.

This provides a very versatile Equalisation section, it is simple to understand and operate, yet provides a wide degree of variation. It retains the simplicity of a three control tone section but provides the flexibility of a graphic equaliser.

COMPRESSION - Adding a small amount of compression gives a fat bottom end to the sound and allows a greater volume of amplification to be used without the playing peaks distorting the amplifiers output stage. You will also find that this will add definition to your playing bringing out notes within a run more clearly as it evens out the dynamics of your playing.

A large amount of compression can be used as an effect but it will tend to reduce the dynamics in your playing to such an extent that the volume of the note will be the same no matter how hard or soft you hit the string. Compression also adds sustain to notes making them longer before they die away.

The Compression Level control adjusts the degree of compression applied to the bass signal. For this to function correctly the Input Level must be correctly set as described in the INPUT CONTROL section (left).

When the Input Level is correctly set there will be hardly any difference in volume between Compression IN and Compression OUT. This is because the amplifier automatically compensates for the reduction in level that would be apparent when Compression is added by increasing the overall gain to restore the volume to its pre compression level, because of this you may notice an increase in background noise with high compression settings.

Compression is switched IN/OUT with the push button adjacent to the Compression Level control.

SUB HARMONICS - This section produces Sub Harmonics an octave below the notes being played. The level of these Sub Harmonics relative to the straight bass sound can be adjusted using the LEVEL control. This is very effective in thickening the sound and you will find in use that only a small degree of this lower octave is required to really fill out the sound and provide a character that is not possible by any other means.

The degree of Sub Harmonics is also dependant on the setting of the BASS control.

Sub Harmonics are switched IN/OUT with the push button adjacent to the Sub Harmonics Level control.

DIRECT INJECT ( D.I. ) - A balanced D.I. is provided on the front panel XLR socket. This provides a Post E.Q. Post effects signal.

The output signal from this XLR socket is set to a level and impedance suitable for connecting directly into a Balanced Microphone input of a mixing desk for either Direct Injection into the PA system or for recording.

EFFECTS SEND/RETURN - A serial effects loop is provided at a level of 0dB. The Effects Send and Return sockets for this are on the front panel below the D.I. socket.

The EFFECTS SEND socket can also be used as a Line Out socket if required. The signal path through the preamp is only broken when a jack plug is inserted into the EFFECTS RETURN socket. The EFFECTS SEND is situated after the EQ.

TUNER/LINE OUT - This output socket provides a line level signal that can be used either for a permanent connection to a tuner or a line output for connection to other power amplifiers and speakers.

OUTPUT LEVEL - The OUTPUT control adjusts the overall level of the amplifier. Adjust this for your preferred overall stage playing volume.

Everything possible has been done to make these reliable, minimum service, high quality, long lasting powerful bass amplifiers.

We know you will appreciate the effort that has been put into the design and manufacture of this unit and you will be rewarded in your choice of bass amplifier by long life and reliability.

Electric Blue Amplifier specifications

Ashdown Design & Marketing has long been synonymous with quality and innovation in the realm of bass amplification. Among their impressive lineup, the Electric Blue Amplifier stands out, capturing the hearts of musicians with its exceptional tone and versatility.

The Electric Blue Amplifier is engineered to deliver a rich, powerful sound, making it ideal for everything from intimate gigs to larger performances. With a robust power rating, the amplifier ensures that every note is delivered with clarity and presence, providing bassists with a solid foundation for their musical expressions.

At the core of the Electric Blue Amplifier is its unique tone shaping capabilities. It features a comprehensive tone control section, including a 3-band EQ that allows players to sculpt their sound with precision. With dedicated controls for bass, mid, and treble frequencies, musicians can easily dial in the warmth and punch they desire, making it adaptable for various genres, from jazz to rock and everything in between.

One of the standout technologies integrated into the Electric Blue Amplifier is its compressor. This built-in feature allows for dynamic control, ensuring that notes played with varying intensity maintain a balanced output. This is particularly useful for bassists who employ a range of playing techniques, from fingerstyle to slap bass, ensuring that each note rings out clearly without unintended volume discrepancies.

Additionally, the amplifier is equipped with a high-quality DI output, facilitating seamless integration with recording equipment and PA systems. This feature is invaluable for live performances, allowing musicians to send a clean, defined signal directly to the mixing desk, capturing their tone precisely as they intended.

The Electric Blue Amplifier is not only advanced in sound engineering, but it also boasts a rugged, roadworthy design. Its durable construction ensures that it can withstand the rigors of touring, making it a reliable companion for gigging musicians. The amplifier is also lightweight, allowing for easy transportation without compromising on sound quality.

In summary, the Ashdown Design & Marketing Electric Blue Amplifier is a powerful tool for bassists seeking versatility and quality. With its comprehensive tonal control, built-in compressor, and roadworthy design, it promises to elevate the playing experience, making it a standout choice in the competitive landscape of bass amplification. Whether you’re in the studio or on stage, the Electric Blue Amplifier delivers unparalleled performance that meets the demands of any bassist.