Fender Champion 40-Watt Electric Guitar Amplifier Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

The Fender Champion 40 is a versatile 40-watt electric guitar amplifier designed for both practice and stage use. It offers a wide range of tonal options, including various amplifier voicings and built-in effects, making it suitable for diverse musical styles such as rock, blues, metal, country, and jazz. Its straightforward controls ensure ease of use for guitarists of all skill levels.

2. Safety Information

• Electrical Safety: Always ensure the amplifier is connected to a grounded power outlet. Do not expose the unit to rain or moisture.
• Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation around the amplifier. Do not block ventilation openings.
• Heat: Avoid placing the amplifier near heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other heat-producing apparatus.
• Servicing: 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.

3. Product Overview

The Fender Champion 40 features a classic black 'Bronco' vinyl covering with a silver grille cloth, giving it a timeless Fender aesthetic. The front panel houses all the essential controls for shaping your sound, while the open-back cabinet design allows for convenient storage of cables and small accessories.

Image 1: Fender Champion 40 Electric Guitar Amplifier. The amplifier measures 17.25 inches in width, 17.25 inches in height, and 9 inches in depth. The front panel features various control knobs and input jacks.

4. Setup

1. Power Connection: Connect the supplied power cord to the amplifier's power input and then to a suitable electrical outlet.
2. Power On/Off: Locate the PWR switch on the front panel. Press it to the 'ON' position to power on the amplifier. The power indicator light will illuminate.
3. Connecting Your Guitar: Plug your electric guitar into the INPUT jack (1/4-inch) on the front panel.
4. Connecting a Footswitch: (Optional) If using a footswitch for channel switching or effects bypass, connect it to the FTSW jack.
5. Connecting External Audio (AUX): For playing along with backing tracks or music, connect your MP3 player or other audio device to the AUX input (1/8-inch stereo jack).
6. Connecting Headphones: For silent practice, plug your headphones into the PHONES output (1/8-inch stereo jack). This will mute the amplifier's speaker output.

5. Operating Controls

The Fender Champion 40 features intuitive controls on its front panel:

• INPUT: 1/4-inch jack for connecting your guitar.
• FTSW (Footswitch): 1/4-inch jack for connecting an optional footswitch.
• VOLUME 1: Controls the output level of the clean channel.
• CH SELECT (Channel Select): Toggles between Channel 1 (Clean) and Channel 2 (Amp Voicings/Effects).
• GAIN: Adjusts the amount of overdrive/distortion for Channel 2.
• VOLUME 2: Controls the output level of Channel 2.
• VOICE: Selects different amplifier voicings (e.g., Tweed, Blackface, British, Metal) to emulate various amplifier types.
• TREBLE: Adjusts the high-frequency response of your tone.
• BASS: Adjusts the low-frequency response of your tone.
• FX LEVEL: Controls the intensity or mix of the selected effect.
• FX SELECT: Chooses from a variety of built-in effects, including Reverb, Delay/Echo, Chorus, Tremolo, and Vibratone.
• TAP: Used to set the tempo for time-based effects like Delay/Echo and Tremolo. Tap the button twice at your desired tempo.
• AUX: 1/8-inch stereo input for external audio devices.
• PHONES: 1/8-inch stereo output for headphones, which mutes the main speaker.
• PWR (Power): Power indicator light.

Official Product Videos

6. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the amplifier. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Storage: Store the amplifier in a dry, temperature-controlled environment away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Transportation: Use the sturdy handle for transportation. Ensure the amplifier is powered off and disconnected from all cables before moving.

7. Troubleshooting

• No Sound:
  • Check if the amplifier is powered on and the PWR light is illuminated.
  • Ensure your guitar is properly connected to the INPUT jack.
  • Verify that all volume controls (VOLUME 1, VOLUME 2) are turned up.
  • If headphones are connected, disconnect them from the PHONES jack.
• Distorted Sound:
  • Adjust the GAIN and VOLUME 2 controls to find a balanced sound.
  • Check your guitar's volume and tone controls.
• Effects Not Working:
  • Ensure the FX SELECT knob is set to an effect and the FX LEVEL is turned up.
  • If using the TAP function, ensure it's set correctly for the desired tempo.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty & Support

The Fender Champion 40 Electric Guitar Amplifier comes with a 5-year limited warranty. For warranty claims, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the official Fender website or contact their customer service directly. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty validation.