FRONT PANEL
INPUT � The NEO-PAK 3.5 is equipped with a standard ¼� unbalanced input. Input sensitivity can be switched from approximately 300 mV to 1.25 volt. The input impedance is 500k ohms. The precision input scaling preamp contains a 36 Hz, 12 dB/octave high pass �lter (more effective and less intrusive than the more common 6 dB �lters) and an �RFI� �lter (radio frequency interference) to eliminate unwanted noise. The input gain stage consists of a feedback type circuit that provides continuously variable gain with minimal noise. The input preamp contains 12AX7 tube circuitry based on our highly regarded GBE series touring ampli�ers. PASSIVE/ACTIVE SWITCH � The NEO-PAK 3.5 input stage is equipped with a �passive-active� switch that optimizes the gain for different pickup types. The active switch engages a -10db pad to the input signal. If your bass uses a battery then it is an active type pick-up and will yield best performance with the switch in the Active position. INPUT SIGNAL MUTE SWITCH � With this mute switch, you can place the ampli�er (and Direct Output) in standby mode between sets, without having to change any of your amp settings. This feature can also be used for silent tuning since the Tuner Out stays active when the mute is engaged. A red LED indicates when the Mute is active. PREAMP GAIN CONTROL � This control sets the input sensitivity gain of the preamp to the output of your bass. The volume of the signal is then controlled by the Tube Preamp Volume control and also the Master Volume control. If the red overload �OL� LED �ashes, the tube preamp stage is being overdriven. To retain a clean tone, increase the Preamp and or Master Volume controls and reduce the Preamp Gain control to eliminate input preamp overload. Note that overdriving the input tube gain stage may be a desirable tonal characteristic of your playing style. This control, in conjunction with the Preamp/Master Volume controls, allows you to set the amount of tube overdrive your amp produces. The gain control should be set so that the O/L LED �ashes with the hardest notes played. �O/L� LED � This �Over-load� LED shows the operating status of the preamp stage. When this LED �ashes, overdriving of the input gain stages is occurring. Adjusting the Preamp Gain and Volume controls will affect the over-load condition. PREAMP VOLUME CONTROL � This control sets the volume of the preamp after the Input and Tube Gain stages and before the Master Volume control. Use this control in conjunction with the Gain Control. SETTING YOUR INPUT SIGNAL � Use the following guidelines to set your ampli�er input stage for the type of bass used and your personal playing style. 1) Select either Active or Passive input gain depending upon the bass used. 2) Set your instruments controls (volume and tone) where you normally prefer to run them. 3) With the Channel Gain setting at �0� and your ampli�er EQ positions centered at 12 o�clock, begin turning the gain control up to a level in which the O/L LED is illuminating with your hardest notes played. It is okay for the RED LED to �ash consistently BUT it should not be on constantly. Now set your channel volume and master volume settings for the desired output level (loudness) that you wish to produce. 4) Now, turn your attention to the EQ section and make the adjustments for the desired tone. Because this is an active EQ network any large settings of cut or boost will affect the gain level of the preamp and the O/L lights at the input stage. 5) After setting your EQ it may be necessary to go back and adjust your input gain level accordingly. It should be noted that the Global Signal Shape circuits will not affect the input gain BUT will affect the Master output level and clip indicator if used with extreme settings. TUNER OUTPUT � The NEO-PAK 3.5 is equipped with a fully isolated Tuner Output. This jack is located after the front end scaling preampli�er, but is pre-signal shape and pre-EQ. This output may also be used to drive a separate 2
