Friedman IR-D Dual Tube Preamp & DI User Manual

1. Introduction

The Friedman IR-D Dual Tube Preamp & DI is a versatile guitar preamp designed to deliver authentic Friedman amplifier tones in a compact, pedalboard-friendly format. Featuring two independent, foot-switchable channels based on Friedman's Dirty Shirley/Twin Sister designs, the IR-D provides rich harmonic content and responsive touch dynamics. This unit incorporates DSP IR cabinet/power amp simulation for direct recording or front-of-house connection, offering a studio-quality mic'd-up tone. This manual provides essential information for proper setup, operation, and maintenance of your IR-D unit.

2. Product Overview

2.1 Key Features

• Two independent, identical channels with foot-switchable boost.
• High-voltage 12AX7 preamp tubes for authentic tube tone.
• Integrated DSP IR cabinet/power amp simulation with editable Presence and Thump.
• Three multi-function footswitches for channel switching, boost, and IR bypass.
• Comprehensive I/O including effects loop, balanced XLR output, headphones, and USB.

2.2 What's in the Box

• Friedman IR-D Dual Tube Preamp & DI unit
• Universal 12V Power Supply
• 6 Foot USB 2.0 A Male to B Male cable
• This User Manual

3. Setup

Before connecting your IR-D, ensure all audio equipment is powered off to prevent damage. The IR-D requires a 12V DC power supply (included).

3.1 Power Connection

1. Connect the included 12V DC power supply to the "9-12VDC (min 800mA)" input jack on the rear panel of the IR-D.
2. Plug the power supply into an appropriate AC outlet.

3.2 Audio Connections

The IR-D offers various connection options for different setups:

• To an Amplifier's Power Amp Input: Connect the "OUTPUT" jack of the IR-D to the "FX Return" or "Power Amp In" of your guitar amplifier using a standard instrument cable. This bypasses your amplifier's preamp section.
• To a Mixer/Audio Interface (DI): Use an XLR cable to connect the "BALANCED OUT" jack to a mixer, audio interface, or PA system. This output includes the IR cabinet simulation.
• Headphones: Connect headphones to the "HEADPHONES" jack for silent practice. The headphone output also includes IR cabinet simulation.
• Effects Loop: External effects pedals can be connected via the "SEND" and "RETURN" jacks. Connect the "SEND" to the input of your effects pedal and the output of your effects pedal to the "RETURN" jack.
• USB Connection: Connect the "USB" port to your computer using the included USB cable for IR loading, firmware updates, and software control.

Image 3.2.1: Rear panel connections of the Friedman IR-D Dual Tube Preamp, showing Input, Send, Return, Balanced Out, Headphones, MIDI, and USB ports, along with the power input.

4. Operating Instructions

The Friedman IR-D features two independent channels, each with its own set of controls, plus a global boost function.

Image 4.0.1: Top view of the Friedman IR-D Dual Tube Preamp, displaying Channel 1 and Channel 2 controls, and three footswitches for Channel 1, Channel 2, and Boost.

4.1 Channel Selection

• Press the CHANNEL 1 footswitch to activate Channel 1. The corresponding LED will illuminate.
• Press the CHANNEL 2 footswitch to activate Channel 2. The corresponding LED will illuminate.
• Only one channel can be active at a time.

4.2 Boost Function

• Press the BOOST footswitch to engage the boost. The boost LED will illuminate.
• The boost can be used with either Channel 1 or Channel 2.
• The boost level is controlled by the "BOOST V." knob for each channel.

4.3 IR Cabinet Simulation

• The IR-D features built-in Impulse Response (IR) cabinet simulation for its DI and headphone outputs.
• To bypass the IR for Channel 1, press and hold the CHANNEL 1 footswitch. The LED will change color to indicate IR bypass status.
• To bypass the IR for Channel 2, press and hold the CHANNEL 2 footswitch. The LED will change color to indicate IR bypass status.
• Custom IRs can be loaded via the USB connection and dedicated software. Refer to the Friedman website for software and detailed instructions.

5. Controls and Connections

This section details the functions of all knobs, switches, and jacks on the Friedman IR-D.

Image 5.0.1: Angled view of the Friedman IR-D Dual Tube Preamp, showing the top panel controls and the side input/output jacks.

5.1 Top Panel Controls (Per Channel)

• CAB/IR Switch: Toggles between different built-in cabinet IRs or user-loaded IRs.
• BOOST V. (Boost Volume): Adjusts the volume level of the engaged boost for the respective channel.
• VOLUME: Controls the overall output volume of the channel.
• TREBLE: Adjusts the high-frequency response of the channel.
• MIDDLE: Adjusts the mid-range frequency response of the channel.
• BASS: Adjusts the low-frequency response of the channel.
• GAIN: Controls the amount of overdrive/distortion for the channel.
• B1/B2 Switches: These are voicing switches, typically affecting the bass response or overall character. Refer to the detailed software manual for specific functions.
• S1/S2 Switches: These are voicing switches, typically affecting the treble response or overall character. Refer to the detailed software manual for specific functions.

5.2 Footswitches

• CHANNEL 1 (IR Bypass): Toggles Channel 1 on/off. Hold to bypass/engage IR for Channel 1.
• CHANNEL 2 (Loop Bypass): Toggles Channel 2 on/off. Hold to bypass/engage IR for Channel 2.
• BOOST (Store): Toggles the boost function on/off. Hold to save presets (refer to software manual).

5.3 Rear Panel Connections

• INPUT: 1/4" instrument input for your guitar.
• SEND: 1/4" output for connecting to the input of external effects pedals.
• RETURN: 1/4" input for connecting from the output of external effects pedals.
• BALANCED OUT: XLR output for direct connection to a mixer or audio interface. Includes IR simulation.
• HEADPHONES: 1/4" stereo output for headphones. Includes IR simulation.
• MIDI: MIDI input for external control and synchronization.
• USB: USB-B port for connecting to a computer for software control, IR loading, and firmware updates.
• 9-12VDC (min 800mA): Power input jack for the included 12V DC power supply.
• GND LIFT: Ground lift switch for the BALANCED OUT to eliminate hum.

6. Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Friedman IR-D, follow these maintenance guidelines:

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the unit. Avoid abrasive cleaners, solvents, or waxes.
• Environment: Operate and store the unit in a dry environment, away from extreme temperatures, humidity, and direct sunlight.
• Power Supply: Always use the original or a compatible 12V DC power supply (minimum 800mA) to prevent damage.
• Tube Care: The 12AX7 preamp tubes are designed for long life. If you suspect a tube issue (e.g., excessive noise, loss of tone), consult a qualified technician for replacement.
• Firmware Updates: Periodically check the Friedman Amplification website for firmware updates to ensure your unit has the latest features and performance enhancements.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Friedman IR-D, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:

• No Power:
  • Ensure the 12V DC power supply is securely connected to both the IR-D and a working AC outlet.
  • Verify the power supply is the correct voltage and current rating (12V DC, min 800mA).
• No Sound:
  • Check all audio cable connections (input, output, effects loop).
  • Ensure the VOLUME knobs on the IR-D are not set to zero.
  • If using an amplifier, ensure its volume is up and it is set to the correct input (e.g., FX Return).
  • If using the BALANCED OUT, check mixer/interface input levels and phantom power settings (if applicable, though IR-D does not require it).
  • Test with different cables and instruments to rule out external issues.
• Hum or Noise:
  • Engage the "GND LIFT" switch on the rear panel if using the BALANCED OUT.
  • Ensure all power cables are away from audio cables to minimize interference.
  • Test in a different electrical outlet or with a power conditioner.
  • Check for faulty cables or other noisy equipment in your signal chain.
• Unexpected Tone/Functionality:
  • Ensure the correct channel is selected and the boost is engaged/disengaged as desired.
  • Check the CAB/IR switch settings.
  • If using custom IRs, verify they are loaded correctly via the software.
  • Perform a factory reset if issues persist (refer to the Friedman website for instructions on how to perform a factory reset).

If these steps do not resolve the issue, please contact Friedman customer support for further assistance.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

Friedman Amplification products are designed and manufactured to the highest quality standards. For detailed warranty information, product registration, and technical support, please visit the official Friedman Amplification website or contact their customer service department.

Online Resources: www.friedmanamplification.com

Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.