Fender Hot Rod Deluxe IV 40-Watt Guitar Amplifier User Manual

1. Introduction

The Fender Hot Rod Deluxe IV is a 40-watt, 1x12" combo guitar amplifier. This amplifier features modified preamp circuitry, a smoother-sounding spring reverb, and updated aesthetics. This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective use of your amplifier, including setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

2. Important Safety Information

• Read Instructions: Read all safety and operating instructions before using the product.
• Retain Instructions: Keep the safety and operating instructions for future reference.
• Heed Warnings: Adhere to all warnings on the product and in the operating instructions.
• Follow Instructions: Follow all operating and use instructions.
• Water and Moisture: Do not use this apparatus near water.
• Cleaning: Clean only with a dry cloth.
• Ventilation: Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
• Heat: Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
• Power Cord Protection: Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
• Unplug During Storms: Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
• 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.
• Grounding: This product must be grounded.

WARNING: This product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

3. Package Contents

Upon unpacking your Fender Hot Rod Deluxe IV amplifier, please ensure all the following items are present:

• Fender Hot Rod Deluxe IV 40-Watt Guitar Amplifier
• Power Cord
• Footswitch (if included with your specific model)
• User Manual (this document)

Image 1: Front view of the Fender Hot Rod Deluxe IV 40-Watt Guitar Amplifier. The amplifier features a black textured covering, a light-colored grille cloth, and the Fender logo on the top front panel.

4. Setup

1. Placement: Position the amplifier on a stable, level surface. Ensure adequate ventilation around the unit. Avoid placing it near heat sources or in direct sunlight.
2. Power Connection: Connect the supplied power cord to the amplifier's AC inlet and then to a grounded electrical outlet. Ensure the amplifier's power switch is in the OFF position before connecting.
3. Instrument Connection: Connect your guitar or other instrument to the "INPUT 1" or "INPUT 2" jack on the front panel using a standard 1/4-inch instrument cable. Input 2 typically offers a slightly lower gain for cleaner tones or higher output instruments.
4. Footswitch Connection (Optional): If using the footswitch, connect it to the "FOOTSWITCH" jack on the rear panel.
5. External Speaker (Optional): If connecting an external speaker cabinet, ensure its impedance matches the amplifier's output impedance (typically 8 ohms). Connect it to the appropriate speaker output jack on the rear panel. Disconnect the internal speaker if specified in the amplifier's rear panel instructions when using an external cabinet.

5. Operating Instructions

1. Power On: Ensure all connections are secure and volume controls are set to a low level. Flip the POWER switch to the ON position. Wait a few moments for the tubes to warm up.
2. Adjusting Volume: Slowly increase the "VOLUME" control for the Normal channel or the "MASTER" control for the Drive channel to achieve your desired listening level.
3. Channel Selection: The Hot Rod Deluxe IV features two channels: Normal and Drive.
   • Normal Channel: Provides clean tones. Use the "VOLUME" knob to adjust its level.
   • Drive Channel: Provides overdriven tones. Activate this channel using the "DRIVE" switch on the front panel or the footswitch. Use the "DRIVE" and "MASTER" knobs to control its gain and overall volume. The "MORE DRIVE" switch (or footswitch button) provides an additional gain boost.
4. Tone Controls: Adjust the "TREBLE," "MIDDLE," and "BASS" knobs to shape your amplifier's tonal response. The "PRESENCE" control adds brightness and cut to the overall sound.
5. Reverb: The "REVERB" knob controls the amount of spring reverb effect applied to your sound.
6. Power Off: When finished, turn down all volume controls, then flip the POWER switch to the OFF position.

6. Controls and Functions Overview

This section details the various controls and connections found on your amplifier.

Front Panel Controls:

• INPUT 1 & 2: 1/4" input jacks for your instrument. Input 1 is standard, Input 2 has reduced sensitivity.
• VOLUME: Controls the output level of the Normal channel.
• DRIVE: Controls the amount of gain for the Drive channel.
• TREBLE: Adjusts the high-frequency response.
• BASS: Adjusts the low-frequency response.
• MIDDLE: Adjusts the mid-range frequency response.
• MASTER: Controls the overall output level of the Drive channel.
• REVERB: Controls the intensity of the built-in spring reverb effect.
• PRESENCE: Adds brightness and definition to the overall tone.
• DRIVE Switch: Engages the Drive channel.
• MORE DRIVE Switch: Provides an additional gain boost when the Drive channel is active.
• STANDBY Switch: Places the amplifier in standby mode, allowing tubes to warm up or cool down without signal.
• POWER Switch: Turns the amplifier ON or OFF.
• PILOT LAMP: Indicates when the amplifier is powered on.

Rear Panel Connections:

• POWER INLET: For connecting the detachable power cord.
• FUSE: Contains the main power fuse. Replace only with the specified type and rating.
• SPEAKER OUTPUTS: Jacks for connecting external speaker cabinets. Observe impedance matching.
• FOOTSWITCH: Jack for connecting the optional footswitch for channel and More Drive selection.
• PREAMP OUT / POWER AMP IN (Effects Loop): These jacks allow for connecting external effects processors between the preamp and power amp sections.

7. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Disconnect the amplifier from power before cleaning. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the exterior. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Tube Care: Vacuum tubes have a finite lifespan. If you notice a decrease in performance or unusual noise, tubes may need replacement. This should ideally be performed by a qualified technician.
• Storage: Store the amplifier in a dry, temperature-controlled environment. If transporting, use a protective cover or case.
• Ventilation: Ensure the amplifier's ventilation openings are never obstructed during operation.

8. Troubleshooting

If you experience issues not covered here, or if troubleshooting steps do not resolve the problem, please contact Fender customer support or a qualified service technician.

9. Specifications

• Model: Hot Rod Deluxe IV
• Model Number: 2231200000
• Output Wattage: 40 Watts
• Speaker: Celestion 12" A-Type speaker
• Channels: 2 (Normal, Drive)
• Reverb: Modified Spring Reverb
• Preamp Circuitry: Modified for increased overdriven note definition
• Cabinet Material: Lightweight Pine
• Color: Black
• Item Weight: 49.6 pounds (22.5 kg)
• Product Dimensions: 25.4 x 20.4 x 12.6 inches (64.5 x 51.8 x 32 cm)
• Power Source: Corded Electric
• Connector Type: 6.35mm Jack
• Compatible Devices: Guitar, all
• Date First Available: January 23, 2018

10. Warranty and Support

This Fender Hot Rod Deluxe IV amplifier comes with a 2-Year Warranty from the date of purchase. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

For technical support, service, or warranty inquiries, please visit the official Fender website or contact Fender customer service directly. You can find contact information and additional resources on the Fender Support Page.