Introduction
The Aguilar amPlug3 Tone Hammer is a compact and portable headphone amplifier designed for bass guitarists. It delivers the warm, rich, and dynamic sound of Aguilar's Tone Hammer amplifiers in a convenient, pocket-sized format. This manual provides essential information for setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
Key Features
- Dual Analog Channels: Experience warm, dynamic tone with an all-analog dual-channel design modeled after legendary Tone Hammer amplifiers - perfect for capturing that classic Aguilar sound.
- Custom Tilt-EQ Tone Control: Shape your tone with ease using the intuitive Tilt-EQ - boost highs or lows with a single knob for fast, musical adjustments on the fly.
- Studio-Quality Compression: Enhance clarity and consistency with built-in compression modeled after the Aguilar TLC Compressor - ideal for balancing dynamics without sacrificing tone.
- Ambient Reverb: Bring your tone to life with a room-style reverb that adds subtle space and warmth - perfect for solo playing or live settings.
- Lush Chorus: Enrich your tone with a smooth, analog-inspired chorus effect that adds dimension and motion - based on Aguilar’s beloved Chorusaurus pedal.
- Built-In Drum Machine: Stay in the pocket with built-in rhythm patterns designed to inspire creativity - great for solo practice, songwriting, or jamming on the go.
Setup
Battery Installation
The amPlug3 Tone Hammer requires 2 AAA batteries for operation. To install, slide open the battery compartment cover on the back of the unit. Insert the batteries, ensuring correct polarity as indicated inside the compartment, then close the cover securely.
Connecting to Your Instrument
The amPlug3 features a 1/4-inch plug with five adjustable positions to accommodate various bass guitar input jack orientations. Insert the plug firmly into your bass guitar's output jack. Adjust the plug's angle as needed for a secure and comfortable fit.
Connecting Headphones and Aux Input
Connect your headphones to the dedicated headphone jack (3.5mm) on the amPlug3. For practicing along with backing tracks or external audio, connect an external audio source (like a smartphone or music player) to the AUX input (3.5mm) using a stereo audio cable.
Operating Instructions
Controls Overview
The amPlug3 Tone Hammer features three main control wheels on the top surface, along with side buttons for power and effects/rhythm selection:
| Control | Function |
|---|---|
| Gain | Adjusts the input level from your bass guitar. Turn clockwise to increase gain, counter-clockwise to decrease. |
| Tone (Tilt EQ) | Shapes your sound by balancing low and high frequencies. Turning the knob adjusts the overall tonal character, boosting lows while cutting highs, or vice-versa. |
| Master Volume | Controls the overall output volume to your headphones. |
| Power Button | Press and hold to turn the unit on or off. |
| FX/Rhythm Button | Cycles through onboard effects and activates the drum machine. |
Dual Analog Channels
The amPlug3 offers two distinct analog channels, indicated by the color of the LED on the unit:
- Clean Channel: Provides a warm, dynamic, and uncolored bass tone. (Indicated by a green LED)
- Drive Channel: Delivers a rich, overdriven sound inspired by the Tone Hammer amplifier series. (Indicated by a red LED)
Switch between channels by pressing the dedicated button on the side of the unit.
Onboard Effects
Enhance your sound with three built-in effects, accessible via the FX/Rhythm button:
- Compressor: Modeled after the Aguilar TLC Compressor, this effect helps to balance dynamics and enhance clarity, providing a more consistent sound.
- Reverb: A room-style reverb adds subtle space and warmth to your tone, simulating acoustic environments.
- Chorus: Inspired by Aguilar's Chorusaurus pedal, this effect adds dimension and motion to your sound, creating a lush, swirling texture.
Press the FX/Rhythm button repeatedly to cycle through the effects. The specific effect engaged may be indicated by a combination of LED flashes or by listening to the sound.
Built-in Drum Machine
The amPlug3 includes built-in rhythm patterns with adjustable tempo, providing a versatile backbeat for practice and songwriting. To activate the drum machine, press the FX/Rhythm button until a drum pattern begins. Use the Tap button on the side to adjust the tempo of the drum beats.
Direct Recording
The amPlug3 Tone Hammer can be used for direct recording. Connect a TRRS cable from the amPlug3's AUX input/output jack to your recording setup, such as a smartphone or audio interface. This allows for high-quality direct recording of your bass tone with all the amPlug3's features.
Maintenance
- Clean the unit with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners, solvents, or harsh chemicals.
- Remove batteries if the unit will not be used for an extended period (e.g., more than a month) to prevent battery leakage and potential damage.
- Store the amPlug3 in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, high humidity, and extreme temperatures.
- Avoid dropping the unit or subjecting it to strong impacts.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| No Sound | Check battery level and replace if low. Ensure headphones are fully plugged into the headphone jack. Verify the amPlug3 is securely connected to your instrument. Check the Master Volume and Gain controls are not set to zero. |
| Distorted Sound | Reduce the Gain level on the amPlug3. If using an active bass, ensure its output volume is not excessively high. |
| Unit Turns Off Randomly | This typically indicates low battery power. Replace the batteries with fresh ones. |
| Drum Machine Not Working | Ensure the unit is powered on. Press the FX/Rhythm button repeatedly until a drum pattern is heard. |
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 2.72 ounces (0.17 Pounds) |
| Product Dimensions | 1.3 x 3.43 x 1.54 inches (5.12"D x 1.42"W x 7.2"H) |
| Country of Origin | Vietnam |
| Item Model Number | AG AMPLUG 3 TONE HAMMER |
| Batteries | 2 AAA batteries required |
| Color | Black |
| Compatible Devices | Guitar, Bass, All |
| Connector Type | 3.5mm Jack |
| Power Source | DC power supply (via batteries) |
| First Available Date | November 7, 2024 |
Warranty and Support
For detailed warranty information and product support, please visit the official Aguilar website: AguilarAmp.com. You can also contact your local authorized Aguilar dealer for assistance. Extended protection plans may be available; refer to your purchase documentation for details.
Product Videos
This official product video provides a comprehensive overview of the Aguilar amPlug3 Tone Hammer, demonstrating its features, controls, dual channels (clean and drive), onboard effects (compressor, reverb, chorus), built-in drum machine, and direct recording capabilities. It showcases the unit in various practical scenarios for bass players.