Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the Soundking AK20-RA Guitar Amplifier. This 60-watt, 2-channel amplifier is designed for electric guitar and bass, offering versatile sound options for practice and small performances. Please read this manual thoroughly to ensure proper operation and to maximize your amplifier's potential.
Important Safety Instructions
- Read these instructions.
- Keep these instructions.
- Heed all warnings.
- Follow all instructions.
- Do not use this apparatus near water.
- Clean only with a dry cloth.
- Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
- Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
- Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized 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 are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
- Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
- Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
- Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
- Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as 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.
Package Contents
- Soundking AK20-RA Guitar Amplifier
- Power Cable
- User Manual
Product Overview
The Soundking AK20-RA features a user-friendly control panel and essential connections for various applications. Image Description: A close-up photograph of the Soundking AK20-RA guitar amplifier's front control panel. It shows the input jack, various knobs for Overdrive, Volume, Treble, Mid, Bass, Presence, Reverb, and Phones, along with the Power switch. The "Digital Reverb" and "Depth Master" sections are clearly visible. Image Description: A close-up photograph of the Soundking AK20-RA guitar amplifier's rear panel, specifically highlighting the "EFFECT LOOP" section. It shows two 6.35mm (1/4-inch) jacks labeled "RETURN" and "SEND".Front Panel Controls
Rear Panel Connections (Effect Loop)
Setup
- Placement: Place the amplifier on a stable, flat surface. Ensure adequate ventilation around the unit. Avoid placing it near heat sources or in direct sunlight.
- Power Connection: Ensure the amplifier's POWER switch is in the OFF position. Connect the supplied power cable to the amplifier's power inlet and then to a suitable AC power outlet.
- Instrument Connection: Connect your electric guitar or bass to the INPUT jack on the front panel using a high-quality instrument cable.
- Initial Settings: Before powering on, set all volume and gain knobs (VOLUME, OVERDRIVE, REVERB) to their minimum (0) positions. Set the equalizer knobs (TREBLE, MID, BASS, PRESENCE) to their center (5) positions.
Operating Instructions
Powering On/Off
- To turn ON: Ensure all volume controls are at minimum, then press the POWER switch to the ON position.
- To turn OFF: Lower all volume controls, then press the POWER switch to the OFF position.
Clean Channel Operation
- Ensure the OVERDRIVE knob is set to 0 (off).
- Slowly increase the VOLUME knob to your desired listening level.
- Use the TREBLE, MID, BASS, and PRESENCE controls to shape your clean tone.
Overdrive Channel Operation
- To engage the overdrive channel, rotate the OVERDRIVE knob clockwise from 0.
- Adjust the OVERDRIVE knob to control the amount of distortion or gain.
- Adjust the VOLUME knob for the overall output level of the overdrive channel.
- Use the TREBLE, MID, BASS, and PRESENCE controls to further shape your distorted tone.
Using the Digital Reverb/Delay
- The AK20-RA features an integrated digital reverb/delay effect.
- Rotate the REVERB knob clockwise to increase the intensity and duration of the effect.
Using the Effect Loop
- The effect loop allows you to integrate external effects pedals into the amplifier's signal path after the preamp section.
- Connect the SEND jack to the input of your external effects pedal(s).
- Connect the output of your external effects pedal(s) to the RETURN jack.
- This placement is ideal for time-based effects like delay, chorus, or flanger, ensuring they are applied to the amplifier's processed tone (clean or overdrive).
Headphone Use
- Plug standard stereo headphones into the PHONES jack for silent practice.
- Connecting headphones will automatically mute the amplifier's internal speaker.
- Adjust the VOLUME knob to control the headphone output level.
Maintenance
- Cleaning: Disconnect the amplifier from power before cleaning. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the exterior. Do not use liquid cleaners or abrasive materials.
- Storage: When not in use, store the amplifier in a dry, cool environment, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Transportation: When moving the amplifier, ensure it is powered off and unplugged. Use the built-in handle for carrying. The robust cabinet with metal corners provides protection during transport.
- Ventilation: Ensure that the amplifier's ventilation openings are not blocked to prevent overheating.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No sound | Amplifier not powered on; Volume knobs set to minimum; Instrument cable faulty or not connected; Headphones connected. | Check power switch and cable; Increase VOLUME; Check instrument cable connections; Disconnect headphones. |
| Weak or distorted sound (unexpected) | Incorrect gain/volume settings; Faulty instrument cable; Guitar/bass output issues; External effects loop issues. | Adjust VOLUME and OVERDRIVE knobs; Try a different instrument cable; Check guitar/bass battery or electronics; Bypass external effects. |
| Humming or buzzing noise | Ground loop; Faulty cable; Interference from other electronic devices. | Try plugging into a different outlet; Use shielded cables; Move amplifier away from other electronics; Check for faulty cables. |
| Effects loop not working | Cables incorrectly connected; External effect pedal not powered or faulty. | Ensure SEND is connected to pedal input and pedal output to RETURN; Check power and functionality of external pedal. |
Specifications
- Model: AK20-RA
- Output Power: 60 Watts (Peak)
- Speaker Size: 8 Inches
- Channels: 2 (Clean, Overdrive)
- Equalizer: 4-Band (Treble, Mid, Bass, Presence)
- Effects: Integrated Digital Reverb/Delay
- Connections: 6.35mm (1/4-inch) Instrument Input, 6.35mm (1/4-inch) Headphone Output, Effect Loop (Send/Return)
- Compatible Devices: Electric Guitar, Electric Bass
- Material: Plastic (Cabinet with metal corners)
- Color: Black
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 34 cm x 34 cm x 20 cm (13.4 x 13.4 x 7.9 inches)
- Weight: 7.2 kg (15.9 lbs)
Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation provided at the time of purchase or contact your local Soundking dealer. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
