Aguilar TH500V2

Aguilar Gen 2 TH 500 500-watt Bass Amplifier Instruction Manual

Model: TH500V2

Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the proper setup, operation, and maintenance of your Aguilar Gen 2 TH 500 500-watt Bass Amplifier. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the amplifier to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Important Safety Information

  • Power Source: Connect the amplifier only to the specified voltage (100-240VAC, 50/60Hz).
  • Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation. Do not block ventilation openings.
  • Moisture: Do not expose the unit to rain or moisture.
  • Servicing: Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Do not attempt to service this product yourself.
  • Fuse: The internal fuse is 6.3A/250V.
  • Proposition 65 Warning: This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

Key Features

  • Powerful 500 watts of output.
  • 3-band EQ with semi-parametric midrange for precise tone shaping.
  • Drive control for added grit and punch.
  • Supports a 2.67-ohm speaker load.
  • Universal mains for international voltage compatibility.
  • Lightweight design for portability.
  • XLR DI out for direct connection to a mixer or PA system.
  • Headphone output for silent practice.
  • IR loader for cabinet simulation technology integration.
  • High-quality components for durability.

Setup Guide

1. Unpacking and Inspection

Carefully remove the amplifier from its packaging. Inspect the unit for any signs of damage that may have occurred during shipping. Retain all packaging materials for future transport or service needs.

2. Connecting to Power

Connect the provided power cable to the IEC inlet on the rear panel of the amplifier and then to a grounded AC outlet. The amplifier supports universal mains (100-240VAC, 50/60Hz).

Rear panel of the Aguilar TH 500 amplifier showing power inlet, speaker outputs, and other connections.

Image: Rear panel connections including the power inlet and power switch.

3. Speaker Connections

Connect your bass speaker cabinet(s) to the "SPEAKER OUTPUT" on the rear panel using a SpeakON cable. The amplifier supports a minimum total speaker load of 2.67 ohms. Ensure your cabinet's impedance matches or exceeds this requirement.

Close-up of the Aguilar TH 500 rear panel showing the SpeakON speaker output.

Image: Detail of the SpeakON speaker output on the rear panel.

4. Instrument Input

Connect your bass guitar to the "INPUT" jack on the front panel using a standard 1/4-inch instrument cable. If your instrument has a very high output, you can engage the -10dB pad switch located next to the input jack to prevent signal clipping.

Front panel of the Aguilar TH 500 amplifier showing the input jack and -10dB pad switch.

Image: Front panel with input and -10dB pad switch.

Operating Instructions

1. Powering On/Off

After all connections are made, flip the power switch on the rear panel to the "ON" position. The "STATUS" indicator on the front panel will illuminate. Always turn the amplifier off when not in use.

2. Front Panel Controls

Front panel of the Aguilar TH 500 amplifier with all controls labeled.

Image: Front panel controls overview.

  • GAIN: Controls the input level of your instrument. Adjust for desired signal strength without clipping.
  • DRIVE: Adds harmonic content and overdrive. Turn clockwise for more saturation.
  • MID LEVEL: Adjusts the boost or cut of the midrange frequencies.
  • MID FREQ: Selects the center frequency for the MID LEVEL control (180 Hz to 1 kHz).
  • BASS: Controls the low-frequency response.
  • TREBLE: Controls the high-frequency response.
  • VOLUME: Master output volume control.
  • MUTE: Mutes the amplifier output to the speaker and DI.
  • DI.1 (XLR DI Out): Provides a balanced output for connecting to a mixing console or recording interface.
    • PRE/POST: Selects whether the DI signal is taken before (PRE) or after (POST) the EQ section.
    • LIFT/GND: Ground lift switch to eliminate hum.

3. Rear Panel Connections and Controls

Rear panel of the Aguilar TH 500 amplifier showing all connections and controls.

Image: Rear panel connections and controls overview.

  • SPEAKER OUTPUT: SpeakON connector for speaker cabinets. Minimum total impedance 2.67 ohms.
  • EFFECTS LOOP (SEND/RETURN): For connecting external effects pedals.
  • AUX IN: 1/8-inch stereo input for connecting external audio devices (e.g., MP3 player) for practice.
  • HEADPHONE OUT: 1/8-inch stereo output for silent practice. The "MIX" knob adjusts the balance between instrument and AUX IN.
  • TUNER OUT: Unbuffered output for connecting an external tuner.
  • USB-C: For connecting to a computer for firmware updates and IR loader management.
  • CAB IR SELECT (1, 2, 3): Selects between loaded Impulse Responses for cabinet simulation.

Maintenance

  • Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the amplifier's exterior. Do not use liquid cleaners or solvents.
  • Ventilation: Regularly check that the ventilation fan and vents are clear of dust and debris.
  • Storage: Store the amplifier in a dry, temperature-controlled environment when not in use.
  • Fuse Replacement: Fuse replacement should only be performed by qualified personnel. The internal fuse is 6.3A/250V.

Troubleshooting

ProblemPossible CauseSolution
No sound output
  • Power not connected or switched on.
  • Speaker cable faulty or disconnected.
  • MUTE switch engaged.
  • Volume controls set too low.
  • Instrument cable faulty or disconnected.
  • Check power connection and switch.
  • Verify speaker cable connection and test with another cable.
  • Disengage MUTE switch.
  • Increase GAIN and VOLUME controls.
  • Check instrument cable and connection.
Distorted sound
  • GAIN control set too high.
  • -10dB pad not engaged for high-output instruments.
  • DRIVE control set too high (if unwanted).
  • Faulty instrument or speaker cable.
  • Reduce GAIN.
  • Engage -10dB pad.
  • Reduce DRIVE.
  • Test with different cables.
Hum or noise
  • Ground loop.
  • Faulty cables.
  • Interference from other electronic devices.
  • Engage DI.1 GND LIFT switch.
  • Try different power outlets.
  • Replace cables.
  • Move amplifier away from other electronics.

Specifications

  • Output Wattage: 500 Watts
  • Item Model Number: TH500V2
  • Item Weight: 4 pounds
  • Product Dimensions: 12 x 6 x 14.5 inches
  • Power Source: Corded Electric
  • Input Voltage: 100-240VAC, 50/60Hz (Universal Mains)
  • Internal Fuse: 6.3A/250V
  • Minimum Speaker Load: 2.67 ohms
  • Material: Metal
  • Compatible Devices: Bass Guitar
  • Connector Type: 6.35mm Jack (Input), SpeakON (Speaker Out), XLR (DI Out), 1/8-inch (Aux In, Headphone Out, Tuner Out), USB-C

Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please visit the official Aguilar website or contact your authorized Aguilar dealer. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.

Aguilar Amplification Official Website

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