ENGLISH

!

WARNING! - Important safety instructions

WARNING: This apparatus must be earthed!

 

APLEASE read this instruction manual carefully before switching on.

BALWAYS use the supplied mains lead, if a replacement is required please contact your authorised Marshall Dealer.

CNEVER attempt to by-pass the fuses or fit ones of the incorrect value.

DDO NOT attempt to remove the amplifier chassis, there are no user serviceable parts.

ERefer all servicing to qualified service personnel including replacement of fuses and valves. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as when the power supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally or has been dropped.

FNEVER use an amplifier in damp or wet conditions. No objects filled with liquids should be placed on the apparatus. When cleaning, only use a dry cloth.

GALWAYS unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.

HPROTECT the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles and at the point where they exit from the apparatus.

IDO NOT switch the amplifier on without the loudspeaker connected.

JENSURE that any extension cabinets used are of the correct impedance.

➲ EUROPE ONLY

- NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the requirements of the EMC directive

(Environments E1, E2 and E3 EN 55103-1/2) and Low Voltage directive in the E.U.

➲ EUROPE ONLY - NOTE: The Peak Inrush current for the VBA400 is 204 amps.

➲ CAUTION: Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance may void the user’s

authority to operate the equipment.

➲ NOTE: It is recommended that all audio cables used, with the exception of the speaker lead, to connect to the VBA400 are of a high

quality screened type. These should not exceed 10 metres in length. Always use a non-screened Marshall approved speaker lead with

the VBA400 Head and extension cabinets.

➲ WARNING: Do not obstruct ventilation grilles and always ensure free movement of air around the amplifier!

To fully compliment the VBA400 we have produced two specially designed cabinets, the 8x10” VBC810 and the 4x12” VBC412 which combine cool looks with classic Marshall tone.

In order to get the most from your VBA400 please read this handbook carefully before plugging in.

VBA400 Set-up guide

CAUTION!: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE REPLACE FUSES

 

TUNER

EFFECTS LOOP

D.I. OUTPUT

 

DO NOT OBSTRUCT FAN EXIT

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

WITH THE SAME TYPE AND RATING ONLY. DISCONNECT

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT REMOVE COVER. NO USER SERVICEABLE

OUTPUT

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SUPPLY CORD BEFORE CHANGING FUSE. TO REDUCE THE

!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.

 

 

 

 

 

2 Ohm

4 Ohm

 

 

LOW

HIGH

 

 

 

MAINS INPUT

ATTENTION!: POUR EVITER LES RISQUES D’INCENDIE UTILISER UN

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

VBA400

FUSIBLE DE MEME TYPE ET DE MEME CALIBRE. DEBRANCHER AVANT DE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Made in England by:

 

 

 

 

 

REMPLACER LE FUSIBLE. POUR EVITER LES RISQUES DE DECHARGES

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ELECTRIQUES, NE PAS OUVRIR LE COUVERCLE. CET APPAREIL NE COMPORTE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Marshall Amplification plc,

 

 

 

 

 

AUCUNE PIECE SUSCEPTIBLE D’ETRE REPAREE PAR VOS SOINS. FAITES

 

 

SEND

RETURN

 

IMPEDANCE

400 Watts RMS

FAN

H.T.

L.T.

 

TOUJOURS APPEL A UN TECHNICIEN QUALIFIE POUR TOUTE REPARATION.

 

 

 

Into 2/4 Ohms

Bletchley, Milton Keynes,

 

 

WARNING!: SHOCK HAZARD. DO NOT OPEN. TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC

 

 

NORMAL

SELECTOR

England.

SPEED

FUSE

FUSE

 

 

 

 

LOUDSPEAKER OUTPUTS

 

 

230V ~ 50 Hz

SHOCK DO NOT EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE. THIS APPARATUS MUST BE EARTHED.

 

EARTH LIFT

 

 

 

 

 

T10A

T4A

100V

AVIS!: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE. NE PAS OUVRIR. POUR EVITER LES RISQUES D’INCENDIE ET DE DECHARGES

WARNING!: RISK OF HAZARDOUS ENERGY! AVIS!: ENERGIE ELECTRIQUE DANGEREUSE!

 

 

900 Watts

 

 

 

T8A

T4A

120V

 

ELECTRIQUES, N’EXPOSEZ JAMAIS CET APPAREIL A L’HUMIDITE OU A LA PLUIE. CONNECTER CET APPAREIL A LA TERRE.

 

REFER TO MANUAL FOR FULL DETAILS. SE REFERER AU MANUEL POUR PLUS DE DETAILS.

 

 

T4A

T2A

230V

 

Tuner

 

 

 

 

Effects Processor

Recording or P.A. Equipment

VBC412

VBC810

VBA400 Front Panel Features (page

26)

 

 

1. Power Switch

5.

Bright

 

 

ENGLISH

USA ONLY - DO NOT defeat the purpose of the polarised or grounding type plug. A polarised plug has two blades with one

wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong is

provided for your safety. When the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.

Follow all instructions and heed all warnings - KEEP THESE INSTRUCTIONS !

Constant exposure to the high sound pressure levels of which this amplification system is capable could result in permanent damage to your hearing.

Although individuals will vary in their susceptibility to noise induced hearing loss, almost everyone will have their hearing impaired if exposed to intense sound levels for a sufficient length of time.

To prevent the occurance of permanent hearing loss, it is advisable to wear ear plugs or protectors if you are going to be exposed to high noise levels for prolonged periods.

Introduction

VBA stands for Valve Bass Amplifier and who better to make a bass amp powered by valve technology than Marshall Amplification? Over 36 years of designing and manufacturing world renowned high quality valve amps has given us priceless knowledge, experience and insight in the world of valve tone.

The VBA400 gives you 400 Watts of Marshall valve power courtesy of 12 valves; 8 6550 power valves, 3 ECC83 classic Marshall pre-amp valves and 1 ECC82 valve.

In addition to great tone, the VBA400 combines a number of other exciting and useful features. Situated on the rear panel of the amp is a Tuner Output which allows you to keep a tuner in line at all times (the bass is still plugged into the input on the front panel). Should you want to tune up during a live situation in silence, simply press the Tuner Mute facility button and both the sound to your speakers and to the DI will be cut off.

All valve amps need to be connected to a speaker before use and failure to do so will result in serious damage to the amp. To ensure that you do not damage your VBA400 by inadvertently forgetting to plug your amp into a speaker, we have designed the unit so that power cannot be applied internally unless it is connected to a speaker.

The VBA400 also features an instant overall tonal re-shaper in the form of a Contour control which has three pre-sets to allow you to dial in three different characters in an instant.

Controls mains power to the amplifier, activating the valve heaters and other auxiliary circuits including the fan. This should be switched on before the standby switch.

2. Standby Switch

Controls the H.T. (high tension) supply to the valves to allow them to attain the correct working temperature before playing. To prolong the life of the valves it is always advisable to switch on the Mains Power Switch (item 1) about 2 minutes before switching on the Standby (item 2).

This procedure allows the valves to heat up fully before use. On switching off, the Standby should always be switched before the Power Switch.

The standby facility is particularly useful live, between sets, as it allows you to reduce the amount of heat generated by the amplifier but keep the valves operating, which is conducive to longevity of valve life. Valve life can be further increased by always ensuring that the amplifier is allowed to cool down completely after use and before transportation.

3. Master Volume

Governs the overall volume of the VBA400.

4. Deep

The Deep Switch adds a tuned or resonant bass boost to your sound, increasing bottom end thud, without making your tone woolly around the bottom end.

The Bright switch adds high frequency presence, giving top end brilliance, crispness and bite to your sound.

6. Treble

Controls the high frequencies of the bass guitar tone, making your sound brighter when increased.

7. Middle

Dictates the middle register of the amplifier. Turning this up will make your bass sound fatter. Conversely reducing the amount of middle in your tone will result in a sharper sound.

8. Contour

3 position control adjusting the overall tonal voicing of the amplifier. Position 1 tailors the response of the amplifier for smooth low end, restrained lower mids, and mild high end lift, to give the classic vintage valve bass tone. In position 2 the lower mid is made more prominent whilst simultaneously the upper mids are subtly scooped to give a more aggressive, growling quality to the amplifier’s tone. Position 3 introduces a gentle overall mid boost for an immediate, cutting, ‘in your face’ tone.

9. Bass

Controls the amount of low frequencies or bottom end in your tone.

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3

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Marshall Amplification VBA400 manual Standby Switch, Master Volume, Deep, Treble, Middle, Contour, Bass
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VBA400 specifications

The Marshall Amplification VBA400 is a powerful bass amplifier that stands out in the realm of professional music gear. Designed specifically for the discerning bassist, the VBA400 offers a blend of vintage aesthetics and modern technology, making it a versatile choice for both live performances and studio recordings.

At the core of the VBA400 is its impressive 400-watt output, providing the raw power necessary to fill any venue with rich, full-bodied sound. One of the main features of the VBA400 is its all-valve design, which is revered for delivering a warm, organic tone that only tube amplifiers can provide. This topology not only enhances tonal depth but also allows for a dynamic response that adapts to a player's style, making it a favorite among seasoned musicians.

The amplifier is equipped with two channels: Classic and Modern. The Classic channel emulates the iconic Marshall sound, characterized by its punchy midrange and clear highs, ideal for rock and vintage genres. On the other hand, the Modern channel offers a more contemporary sound, perfect for a diverse range of musical styles from funk to metal. Players can easily switch between channels, providing adaptability in various performance settings.

The VBA400 also boasts a comprehensive EQ section with controls for bass, mid, and treble. This three-band EQ allows players to fine-tune their sound, accommodating different playing techniques and venues. Additionally, a built-in compressor helps maintain dynamic control, enhancing sustain and preventing unwanted peaks while maintaining clarity in every note.

Another notable characteristic of the VBA400 is its rugged construction. The cabinet is built to withstand the rigors of the road, featuring a plywood design that contributes to its durability while also enhancing acoustic properties. The amplifier's striking vintage appearance, with its iconic black and gold aesthetics, not only looks impressive on stage but also resonates with the brand's legendary heritage.

To further enhance versatility, the VBA400 includes an effects loop, allowing players to integrate their favorite pedals and processors seamlessly. The inclusion of a direct output makes it easy for players to connect to mixing consoles for live sound reinforcement or recording, highlighting its practicality for professional performance.

In conclusion, the Marshall Amplification VBA400 is a remarkable bass amplifier that combines powerful performance with exceptional versatility. Its tube-driven sound, robust construction, and comprehensive feature set make it a go-to choice for bassists seeking to elevate their tone and presence on stage or in the studio. Whether you’re a professional musician or an avid enthusiast, the VBA400 delivers an unforgettable sonic experience.
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