1. Introduction
The Fender Bassbreaker 15 Amplifier Combo is a versatile 15-watt tube amplifier designed for both stage and studio use. It features a unique tonal character that blends traditional Fender clarity with aggressive midrange crunch, making it suitable for a wide range of musical styles. This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your Bassbreaker 15 amplifier.
Figure 1: Front view of the Fender Bassbreaker 15 Amplifier Combo.
2. Safety Instructions
Please read and understand all safety instructions before operating this product. Retain this manual for future reference.
- Electrical Shock Hazard: Do not open the amplifier chassis. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.
- Power Source: Connect the amplifier only to the specified voltage (120V, 50/60Hz). Ensure the power cord is undamaged.
- Ventilation: Maintain adequate clearance around the amplifier for proper ventilation. Do not block ventilation openings.
- Moisture: Do not expose the amplifier to rain, moisture, or excessive humidity.
- Heat: Keep the amplifier away from heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other heat-producing apparatus.
- Cleaning: Unplug the amplifier from the wall outlet before cleaning. Use a dry cloth for cleaning.
- Speaker Connections: Use appropriate speaker cables and ensure correct impedance matching when connecting external speakers.
3. Unpacking and Contents
Carefully remove the amplifier from its packaging. Inspect the unit for any signs of damage that may have occurred during shipping. Please retain the original packaging for future transport or if servicing is required.
The package should contain:
- Fender Bassbreaker 15 Amplifier Combo
- Power Cable
- User Manual (this document)
4. Controls and Features
Familiarize yourself with the front and rear panel controls of your Bassbreaker 15 amplifier.
Figure 2: Top panel controls of the Bassbreaker 15.
Front Panel Controls:
- Input: 1/4" jack for connecting your guitar.
- Bright Switch: Engages a high-frequency boost for added sparkle and presence.
- Gain: Controls the amount of preamp gain, affecting the amplifier's overall drive and saturation.
- Structure Switch (Low/Med/High): A three-position switch that provides distinct tonal timbres and overdrive levels, ranging from mild to wild. This allows for significant tonal versatility.
- Bass: Adjusts the low-frequency response.
- Middle: Adjusts the midrange frequency response.
- Treble: Adjusts the high-frequency response.
- Master: Controls the overall output volume of the amplifier.
- Reverb: Adjusts the level of the built-in digital hall reverb.
- Mute Switch: Mutes the speaker output, useful for silent recording or headphone practice. The pilot light flashes when muted.
- Power Switch: Turns the amplifier on or off.
Figure 3: Rear panel connections of the Bassbreaker 15.
Rear Panel Connections:
- Effects Send/Return: Allows connection of external effects pedals or processors into the amplifier's signal path.
- XLR Line Out: Provides a balanced output for direct connection to a mixing console or recording interface. Features switchable speaker emulation.
- Cabinet Emulation Switch: Toggles speaker cabinet emulation for the XLR Line Out.
- Ground Lift Switch: Helps eliminate hum or ground loop noise when using the XLR Line Out.
- External Speaker Output: Connects to an external speaker cabinet. Ensure impedance matching.
- Power Input: Connects the supplied power cable.
5. Setup
- Place the amplifier on a stable, level surface, ensuring adequate ventilation.
- Connect your guitar to the Input jack on the front panel using a high-quality instrument cable.
- Ensure all volume and gain controls are set to their minimum positions.
- Connect the supplied power cable to the Power Input on the rear panel and then to a grounded electrical outlet.
- If using external effects, connect them via the Effects Send/Return jacks.
- If recording directly, connect the XLR Line Out to your mixing console or interface.
6. Operating Instructions
Powering On:
Flip the Power Switch to the ON position. The pilot light will illuminate. Allow approximately one minute for the tubes to warm up before playing.
Achieving Your Tone:
- Clean Tones: Start with the Gain control low (around 2-4) and the Structure Switch in the 'Low' position. Adjust Master volume to your desired level. Use the Bass, Middle, and Treble controls to shape your EQ. The Bright Switch can add clarity.
- Overdriven Tones: Increase the Gain control and experiment with the Structure Switch ('Med' or 'High' positions) for varying levels of distortion and midrange character. Adjust Master volume as needed.
- Reverb: Turn the Reverb knob clockwise to increase the amount of digital hall reverb.
Silent Recording / Practice:
Engage the Mute Switch to disable the internal speaker. The pilot light will flash to indicate mute mode. You can then use the XLR Line Out for recording or connect headphones to a suitable output (not directly on the amp, but via an interface connected to the XLR out).
Using the Effects Loop:
Connect the 'Send' jack of the amplifier to the input of your effects pedal(s). Connect the output of your effects pedal(s) to the 'Return' jack of the amplifier. This places your effects after the preamp section but before the power amp, preserving your core tone.
Official Product Videos:
The following videos provide demonstrations and further insights into the Fender Bassbreaker 15 amplifier. These videos are provided by the manufacturer or authorized sellers.
Video 1: Fender Bassbreaker 15 overview. This video showcases the amplifier's features and sound capabilities.
Video 2: Fender Bassbreaker 007 Combo demonstration. While featuring the 7-watt model, this video provides insight into the Bassbreaker series' tonal characteristics.
Video 3: Fender Bassbreaker 45 Amplifier Combo demonstration. This video, featuring the 45-watt model, highlights the versatility and sound of the Bassbreaker line.
7. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the amplifier. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Tube Care: Vacuum tubes have a finite lifespan. If you notice a decrease in performance, excessive noise, or microphonics, consult a qualified technician for tube replacement.
- Storage: Store the amplifier in a dry, temperature-controlled environment away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Transportation: When transporting, ensure the amplifier is securely packed to prevent physical damage.
8. Troubleshooting
If you experience issues with your Bassbreaker 15, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No Sound | Power not connected; Mute switch engaged; Faulty cable; Volume/Gain too low. | Check power connection; Disengage Mute switch; Test cables; Increase Volume/Gain. |
| Excessive Hum/Noise | Ground loop; Faulty tubes; Interference from other electronics. | Engage Ground Lift switch (if using XLR out); Try different power outlets; Consult technician for tube inspection. |
| Weak/Distorted Sound | Worn tubes; Incorrect impedance for external speaker; Faulty speaker. | Consult technician for tube inspection/replacement; Verify external speaker impedance; Test with different speaker. |
If the problem persists after attempting these solutions, please contact Fender customer support or a qualified service technician.
9. Specifications
- Model Name: Bassbreaker 15 Amplifier Combo
- Model Number: 2262000000
- Series: Bassbreaker
- Amplifier Type: Tube
- Output Wattage: 15 Watts
- Speaker: 1 x 12" Celestion V-Type (8 Ohm)
- Preamp Tubes: 3 x 12AX7
- Power Tubes: 2 x EL84
- Channels: One
- Controls: Input, Bright Switch, Gain, Structure (Low/Med/High), Bass, Middle, Treble, Master, Reverb, Mute, Power
- Effects: Digital Hall Reverb
- Effects Loop: Yes (Send/Return)
- Line Out: XLR with Switchable Speaker Emulation and Ground Lift
- External Speaker Jack: Yes
- Product Dimensions: 12.5"D x 25.75"W x 21"H
- Item Weight: 40 pounds
- Color: Gray Tweed
Figure 4: Dimensions of the Fender Bassbreaker 15 Amplifier Combo.
10. Warranty and Support
Fender Musical Instruments Corporation provides a limited warranty on its products. For detailed warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Fender website. For technical support, service, or replacement parts, please contact Fender Customer Support directly.
Online Support: www.fender.com/support
