The frequency response of the SM-500 is far greater than usually found in musical instrument amplifiers (10 Hz to 40kHz). This was engineered in order to give the bass player the same punch and clarity on stage as found in the studio or concert PA systems. Therefore, it is doubly important that you be aware of the impedance and power rating of the speakers that you intend to use and that they are compatible with the SM-500.

Note: Make sure your speakers can handle the power provided by the SM-500 in the Mono/Bridge mode. Speakers that have been overdriven are easy to detect and generally do not fall under a manufacturer’s warranty.

EFFECTS SECTION

Both Mono and Stereo Effects Loops are provided on the SM-500. It should be noted, though, that both cannot be used simultaneously. Always use high quality shielded patch cables for all connections between the amplifier and your effects units. Also, it is recommended that the cables be as short as possible.

The Gain control acts as an effects send level control. The amount of signal present at the Effects Send jack is governed by the Gain control on the front panel. If your effects unit is overloading and it does not provide for compensating incoming signals (such as an input volume or switches marked +4 or –10, for example), you may turn down the Gain control to avoid the overloading. If your effects unit has input level adjustments, they should be set for either 0 dB or +4 dB.

The Stereo Master Volume control may be used to recover losses in gain caused by some effects units.

Use the Effects Blend control to adjust the amount of effect with the natural signal from your instru- ment. No sound from your effects unit will be heard if the Effects Blend control is in the fully counterclockwise (“dry”) position.

To use the mono Effects Loop, run a shielded patch cable from the SM-500’s “Send” jack to the INPUT of your effects unit. Run a second patch cable from the OUTPUT of your effects unit to the SM- 500’s mono effects return jack. Then adjust the Effects Blend control for the mix you desire.

To use the stereo Effects Loop, run a patch cable from the Effects SEND jack to the mono input of your stereo effects unit. This generally is either the left or right input of the unit (check your owners manual). If for some reason your effects unit does not provide a mono input, purchase a “Y” mono cord from your local music or electronics store. Plug the common end in the effects Send jack and the other two ends in the left and right inputs of your effect.

If you wish to use just the internal power amps in the SM-500, the Effects Return jacks will serve as the “inputs.” Insert your MONO signal source in the mono Effects Return jack. This will send the source to both power amps. If you have a stereo source, plug the left and right outputs into the corresponding Effects Return jacks. If you want to use just one side of the amp, use the LEFT CHANNEL ONLY. This is because the thermostat that regulates the fan is located on the left side.

TUNER OUT

The Tuner Out jack allows the user to connect an instrument tuner and tune up without having to unplug and go back and forth from amp to tuner. This feature is totally isolated from the rest of the preamp and will function regardless of the settings of any control on the front panel. Being on a side chain (isolated) also avoids loading down of the instrument causing a loss in dynamic range.

To use this feature, plug in a shielded patch cord from the Tuner Out to the INPUT on your tuner. Turn the amplifier on and you're ready to go. If you do not wish to monitor your sound while tuning up, set the Speaker On/Off switch to the “Off” position.

SM-500 USER GUIDE • 9