Peavey Musician 400 Series Amplifier

Introduction

The Peavey Musician amplifier represents the culmination of extensive research and development by PEAVEY ELECTRONICS. This unit incorporates advanced circuits, including a 210 watt RMS power module utilizing eight high-energy power devices on a massive heatsink for robust power and durability. The preamplifier offers comprehensive controls for tonal variation and special effects. A new distortion feature mimics the overload characteristics of tube amplifiers, providing a sought-after "tube" sound in a controlled manner. The amplifier also includes a conventional fuzz circuit for extended sustain and smooth response, along with standard tremolo and reverb effects. A six-channel equalizer allows precise control over the entire tonal spectrum, enabling users to replicate existing amplifier sounds or create unique tonal signatures. Proper adjustment is key to achieving the desired sound; users are encouraged to familiarize themselves with each control's function and capabilities.

Front Panel Controls

The front panel features a comprehensive array of controls for shaping the amplifier's sound:

Input Jacks

Two input jacks are provided: Input 1 is the high-gain input, recommended for most instruments. Input 2 is a low-gain input, suitable for instruments with a very hot signal that might otherwise overload the preamp. When both jacks are used simultaneously, the circuit automatically balances the gain for consistent sensitivity.

Volume Control

This control adjusts the preamp's gain, thereby influencing the amplifier's sensitivity to the input signal, not its overall power output. High input signals can drive the amplifier to full power even at low volume settings.

Distortion Control

This control allows users to replicate the natural distortion characteristics of an overdriven tube amplifier. It blends harmonics into the signal, matching the harmonic content of tube overdrive. Varying the setting allows for different degrees of harmonic distortion. This effect can be combined with the equalizer for further tonal shaping and can be switched on/off via a remote footswitch.

Fuzz Control

Introduces a classic fuzz distortion effect. The level and sustain of the fuzz are adjustable. This circuit features a new squelch to minimize high-frequency hiss and prevent uncontrollable feedback, while maintaining a full-sounding tone with long sustain. The equalizer can modify the tonal emphasis of the fuzz effect. This effect is also controllable from the remote footswitch.

Reverb Control

Determines the amount of delayed signal (reverb) blended into the output. The reverb circuit utilizes a full complimentary amplifier for significant sustain and clarity, with proper damping of the reverb unit's driver coils. This effect is controllable from the remote footswitch.

Depth Control (Tremolo)

Adjusts the amount of amplitude modulation (tremolo) applied to the output signal. This is a standard tremolo control.

Rate Control (Tremolo)

Sets the speed of the tremolo's master oscillator, allowing for a wide range of modulation speeds suitable for modern music. This effect is controllable from the remote footswitch.

Equalizer Controls

A six-channel equalizer circuit divides the audio spectrum into six distinct frequency bands. Each control allows precise adjustment (boost or cut up to 12 dB per band, for a total range of 24 dB) for each frequency band. These controls act as level controls for their respective bands, influencing the overall loudness. Combining the equalizer with distortion or fuzz effects allows for the creation of complex harmonic structures. Overboosting high frequencies can result in a harsher sound; using less top end and more mid/low frequencies can produce smoother effects. It is not recommended to operate with all filters in the extreme cut position.

Middle Control

Provides control over the crucial middle frequency range.

Treble Control

Part of the electronic crossover, this control acts as a level adjustment for treble frequencies. It offers both cut and boost capabilities. For optimal benefit and volume, it is recommended to operate this control close to its fully clockwise position.

Bass Control

Also part of the electronic crossover, this control adjusts the level for bass frequencies, offering both boost and cut. Similar to the treble control, it is advisable to operate the bass control near its fully clockwise position for maximum volume.

Pilot Light

Indicates when the unit is powered on.

Booster Jack

This jack provides an output signal (approximately 1 volt) for driving additional booster power amplifiers. It is NOT a speaker output. Any booster amplifier with a suitable input (accepting 1 volt RMS and having an input impedance of at least 10,000 ohms) can be used.

Rear Panel and Operation

The rear panel contains connections for external devices and power:

Remote Switch Jack

A three-pin DIN plug is located on the front panel for connecting a remote footswitch. Ensure proper alignment when connecting the plug.

Fuse Holder / Circuit Breaker

The fuse is located within the fuse holder cap and must be replaced with one of the correct value to prevent equipment damage and warranty voidance. Some models may feature resettable circuit breakers, which can be reset by pressing the red button. If a breaker trips repeatedly, consult a qualified service center.

Line Cord

A three-wire line cord is provided for user protection and must be connected to the appropriate line voltage as indicated on the back panel. The ground pin on the plug should not be removed.

Line Power Switch

This is a three-position switch with the center position being OFF. The two ON positions are designed to ground the amplifier. One position may yield less hum or popping when the instrument is touched and is recommended for use.

Speaker Output Jacks

These jacks are designed for use with a total load of two ohms. Speaker systems with higher impedance can be used, though this may result in a slight loss of output power. Using speaker systems with less than a total of two ohms is not recommended, as it can overload the power amplifier. The amplifier's protection system limits power delivery to lower impedances. The power amplifier is cooled by a large aluminum heatsink. A thermostat connected to this heatsink will shut down the system if it overheats. Low speaker impedances can cause the amp to run hotter, potentially triggering the automatic thermal cutoff. The thermostat is self-resetting; normal operation resumes when safe temperatures are reached. Overloading the system can cause damage. Never use less than a 2-ohm total load on the 400 module.

Line Cord Retainers

Large retainers on the rear panel are provided for securing the AC line cord during transport.

Technical Specifications

Power Amplifier Section

• Output Power @ 1 KHZ @ 117 VAC Line: Rated Power: 200 W RMS @ Rated Load: 2 OHMS
• Peak Output @ Rated Load: 14 AMPS & 28 VOLTS, 400 WATTS
• Music Power Output @ Rated Load: 290 WATTS RMS @ 1% THD
• Frequency Response: 3DB Down @ 40 HZ & 15 KHZ
• Sensitivity @ Rated Power & Load: 700 mV
• Input Impedance: 10 K OHMS

Pre-Amplifier Section

• Input Characteristics (Tone Controls Flat, Volume @ 12:00):
• Sensitivity: 20 mV @ 1KHZ
• Input Impedance: 330 K OHMS
• Noise: 60 DB (Open Ckt.), 66 DB (50 K OHMS), 66 DB (Short Ckt.)*
• Distortion @ 1 KHZ @ Rated Output: Less Than 0.2% THD**
• Frequency Response: 3DB Down @ 50 HZ & 25 KHZ
• Tone Controls: + 20 DB @ 50 HZ & 5 KHZ***
• Middle Control: 20 DB Cut***
• 6 Channel Equalizer: + 14 DB Each Channel
• Reverb Control: Continuously Variable With Foot-switch Cut-off
• Distortion Control: Variable Harmonic Distortion with Foot-switch Cut-off
• Fuzz Control: Adjustable Fuzz Effect with Foot-switch Cut-off
• Tremolo Controls: Variable depth & Rate with Foot-switch Cut-off
• Booster Output Level: 1.0 VRMS into 10 K OHMS

*Signal-to-noise ratio in DB below rated output
**Measured with Distortion, Reverb, Fuzz & Tremolo Cut-off (Full CCW)
***Clear Channel

Specifications and schematics published in this manual are subject to change without notice.

Manufacturer Information

PEAVEY ELECTRONICS CORP.
611-10TH AVENUE / P. O. BOX 2898 / MERIDIAN, MISS. 39301 / PHONE (601) 483-5365