AER COMPACT 60/4 ACOUSTIC AMPLIFIER Instruction Manual

1. Product Overview

The AER Compact 60/4 Acoustic Amplifier is a powerful, twin-channel amplifier meticulously designed to accurately reproduce the natural sound quality of your acoustic instrument. Its electronics are engineered to handle piezoceramic pickups, microphones, and various line signals, delivering a brilliant, clear, and sustaining sound performance across the entire dynamic range. This ultra-portable amplifier is an industry standard, favored by performing guitarists and singer-songwriters for its outstanding reproduction of acoustic instruments and vocals.

Figure 1: Front view of the AER Compact 60/4 Acoustic Amplifier.

Key Features:

• Twin-Channel Design: Dedicated channels for instruments and microphones.
• 60 Watts Power: Dynamic controlled power amplifier for clear, sustaining sound.
• Versatile Input Handling: Optimized for piezoceramic pickups, microphones, and line signals.
• Integrated Effects: Onboard digital effects with a Pre FX / Post FX switch for DI Out signal.
• Auxiliary Input: 3.5mm Aux input with Level control for external audio sources.
• Portability: Compact size and lightweight design, includes a padded gigbag with shoulder strap.

2. Setup

2.1 Unpacking and Placement

• Carefully remove the amplifier from its packaging. Retain all packaging materials for future transport or storage.
• Place the amplifier on a stable, flat surface. Ensure adequate ventilation around the unit.
• Connect the power cable to the AC IN socket on the rear panel and then to a suitable power outlet.

2.2 Connecting Instruments and Microphones

The AER Compact 60/4 features two independent channels for versatile input options.

Figure 2: Rear panel connections of the AER Compact 60/4 Acoustic Amplifier.

• Channel 1 (Instrument): Use a standard 1/4-inch instrument cable to connect your acoustic guitar or other instrument to the 'Input 1' jack.
• Channel 2 (Mic/Line): This channel typically features an XLR/TRS combo jack. Connect a microphone using an XLR cable or another line-level instrument using a 1/4-inch TRS cable.
• Auxiliary Input: For connecting external audio devices (e.g., MP3 player, phone), use a 3.5mm stereo cable to the 'Aux In' jack.

3. Operating Instructions

3.1 Powering On/Off

• Ensure all connections are secure before powering on.
• Flip the 'Power' switch on the rear panel to the 'ON' position. The power indicator light on the front panel will illuminate.
• To power off, flip the 'Power' switch to 'OFF'.

3.2 Channel Controls

Each channel offers independent controls for optimal sound shaping.

• Gain: Adjusts the input sensitivity for your instrument or microphone. Set this to achieve a strong signal without clipping (distortion).
• Tone Controls (Bass, Middle, Treble): Use these knobs to adjust the low, mid, and high frequencies of your sound.
• Color Switch: This switch provides a mid-cut/treble-boost filter, offering a quick way to enhance clarity and presence.
• Effect Level: Controls the amount of the selected digital effect applied to the channel.

3.3 Digital Effects

The amplifier includes a range of high-quality digital effects.

• Effect Select: Use this knob to choose between different effects such as Reverb, Delay, Chorus, or combinations.
• Effect Pan: Adjusts the stereo placement of the effect.
• Pre FX / Post FX Switch (DI Out): This new feature on the 4th generation models allows you to choose whether the onboard digital effects are included in the Direct Out (DI Out) signal.

3.4 Master Section

• Master Volume: Controls the overall output volume of the amplifier.
• Aux Level: Adjusts the volume of the external audio device connected to the 'Aux In' jack.

4. Specifications

5. Maintenance

5.1 Cleaning

• Always disconnect the amplifier from the power supply before cleaning.
• Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the exterior. For stubborn dirt, a slightly damp cloth can be used, followed by a dry cloth.
• Avoid using abrasive cleaners, solvents, or waxes, as these can damage the finish.

5.2 Storage and Transport

• Store the amplifier in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• When transporting, always use the provided padded gigbag to protect the amplifier from bumps and scratches.
• Ensure all cables are disconnected and controls are set to their minimum positions before moving the unit.

Figure 3: Padded gigbag for the AER Compact 60/4 Acoustic Amplifier.

6. Troubleshooting

6.1 No Sound Output

• Check if the amplifier is powered on and the power indicator light is illuminated.
• Ensure the Master Volume is turned up.
• Verify that your instrument/microphone is properly connected and its volume is turned up.
• Check all cables for damage or loose connections. Try a different cable if possible.
• Ensure the correct input (e.g., 1/4-inch for instrument, XLR for microphone) is being used for each channel.

6.2 Distorted Sound

• Reduce the 'Gain' control for the active channel. If the 'Clip' indicator light is flashing frequently or staying on, your input signal is too high.
• Lower the Master Volume to prevent speaker overload.
• Check your instrument's output level or microphone's sensitivity.

6.3 Feedback Issues

• Adjust the 'Anti-Feedback' control (if available on your model) or the 'Phase' switch to minimize feedback.
• Reposition the amplifier or your instrument/microphone to reduce acoustic coupling.
• Lower the 'Gain' or 'Volume' controls.

7. Warranty & Support

For detailed warranty information and customer support, please refer to the documentation included with your product or visit the official AER website. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.