Darkglass Microtubes X 900 Bass Amplifier Capu

1. Introduzione

The Darkglass Microtubes X 900 is a powerful 900-watt bass amplifier head designed for bass players seeking versatile tone shaping and high-fidelity sound. It integrates the acclaimed X Engine distortion circuit with a comprehensive 6-band graphic equalizer, offering extensive control over your bass tone. This manual provides essential information for the proper setup, operation, and maintenance of your Microtubes X 900.

2. Istruzzioni di sicurità

• Alimentazione elettrica: Cunnette u amplifier only to a grounded AC power outlet with the correct voltage as indicated on the unit. Ensure the power cable is securely connected.
• Ventilazione: Do not block ventilation openings. Ensure adequate airflow around the amplifier to prevent overheating. Avoid placing the unit on carpets or in enclosed spaces.
• umidità: Ùn espone micca u ampProteggete u riscaldatore da a pioggia, l'umidità o l'umidità eccessiva. Mantene i liquidi luntanu da l'unità.
• Service : Do not attempt to service the unit yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Opening the chassis voids the warranty.
• Trattamentu: Mantene u amplifier with care. Avoid dropping or subjecting it to strong impacts.
• Cunnessione di parlante: Always connect a speaker cabinet with the correct impedance (minimum 2.5 Ohms) before powering on the amplifier per prevene danni.

3. Features

The Microtubes X 900 offers a range of features designed to enhance your bass playing experience:

• Powerful 900 watts of Class D power for impressive volume and clarity.
• Integrated X Engine distortion circuit, inspired by Darkglass X-series pedals, for aggressive, mid-heavy drive tones.
• 6-band graphic EQ for precise midrange control and overall tone shaping.
• High-pass and low-pass filters for versatile sound customization within the X Engine.
• Built-in compressor for enhanced punch and clarity on both clean and distorted channels.
• Three IR cabinet simulation slots for realistic direct recording and monitoring.
• MIDI channel switching for seamless integration into digital setups.
• Programmable mute function for silent practice and recording.
• Auxiliary inputs and headphone outputs for flexible connectivity options.

4. Cuntrolli è Connections

4.1 Cuntrolli Front Panel

The front panel provides access to all primary sound shaping and input controls.

Figura 1: Pannellu frontale sopraview

• INPUT: 1/4" instrument input jack.
• PASSIVE/ACTIVE Switch: Selects input sensitivity for passive or active instruments.
• U buttone X: Engages the X Engine distortion circuit.
• HPF (filtru passa-altu): Controls the cutoff frequency for the high-pass filter in the X Engine.
• LPF (Filtru Passa-Bassu): Controls the cutoff frequency for the low-pass filter in the X Engine.
• DRIVE: Adjusts the amount of distortion in the X Engine.
• MIX: Blends the clean signal with the distorted signal from the X Engine.
• COMP (Compressore): Controls the amount of compression applied to the signal.
• NIVELLU: Sets the overall output volume of the amppiù vivu.
• 6-band Graphic EQ: Sliders for precise frequency adjustments at 250 Hz, 500 Hz, 1.5 kHz, and 3 kHz, plus additional bands.
• Pulsante MUTE: Silenzia u amppruduzzione più vita.
• MAESTRE : Controls the overall master volume of the amppiù vivu.

4.2 Cunnessioni di u pannellu posteriore

The rear panel provides all necessary connections for speakers, effects, and direct outputs.

Figura 2: Pannellu posteriore sopraview

• OUTPUT DI SPEAKER: Two Speakon combo jacks for connecting speaker cabinets. Minimum load 2.5 Ohms.
• SENDA: 1/4" output for connecting to external effects.
• RITORNU: 1/4" input for returning signal from external effects.
• AUX IN: 1/8" stereo input for connecting external audio devices (e.g., MP3 player).
• VOLUME CURICULARI: Controls the volume for the headphone output.
• CASCU: 1/8" stereo output for headphones.
• USB: USB-C port for connecting to a computer for firmware updates and Darkglass Suite software.
• PRE DI: Balanced XLR output for a pre-EQ/pre-distortion signal.
• POST DI: Balanced XLR output for a post-EQ/post-distortion signal, with switchable IR cabinet simulation.
• GND LIFT: Ground lift switch for DI outputs to eliminate hum.
• MIDI: 5-pin DIN MIDI input for external control.
• INTERRUTTORE A PEDALE: 1/4" jack for connecting a compatible Darkglass footswitch.
• INTRATA DI POTENZA: IEC power connector for the AC power cable.
• INTERRUTTORE DI POTENZA: Gira u amppiù vivu nantu o fora.

5. Setup

1. Placement: Pone u amplifier on a stable, level surface, ensuring proper ventilation. Do not cover the vent holes.
2. Cunnessione di parlante: Connect your speaker cabinet(s) to the SPEAKER OUTPUT jacks using high-quality Speakon cables. Ensure the total impedance of your cabinets is not below 2.5 Ohms.
3. Cunnessione di u strumentu: Connect your bass guitar to the INPUT jack using a standard 1/4" instrument cable. Select the appropriate PASSIVE or ACTIVE setting.
4. Cunnessione di putenza: Connect the supplied AC power cable to the POWER INPUT on the rear panel and then to a grounded AC outlet.
5. Impostazioni iniziali: Before powering on, set all EQ sliders to their center position, and turn the MASTER volume knob fully counter-clockwise.
6. Power On: Flip the POWER SWITCH to the 'ON' position. The amplifier will perform a brief startup sequence.

6. Operating Instructions

6.1 Funzionamentu di basa

1. After setup, slowly increase the MASTER volume to a desired listening level.
2. Adjust the LEVEL knob to control the overall output volume.
3. Use the 6-band Graphic EQ sliders to fine-tune your tone. Each slider boosts or cuts the specified frequency band.

6.2 Using the X Engine Distortion

1. Press u X button to engage the distortion circuit.
2. Aghjustate u DRIVE knob to control the amount of distortion.
3. Aduprà u HPF è LPF knobs to set the frequency range for the distortion. The HPF determines where the distortion starts in the low end, and the LPF determines where it ends in the high end.
4. U MIX knob allows you to blend the clean signal with the distorted signal, providing clarity and punch even with heavy distortion.

6.3 Cumpressore

The built-in compressor can be engaged and adjusted using the COMP knob. Turning the knob clockwise increases the compression, adding sustain and evening out dynamics. This can be used on both clean and distorted tones.

6.4 IR Cabinet Simulation

The Microtubes X 900 includes three slots for Impulse Response (IR) cabinet simulations. These can be managed and loaded via the USB connection using the Darkglass Suite software.

Figure 3: Darkglass Suite Software for IR Management

The selected IR is applied to the POST DI output, providing a realistic cabinet sound for direct recording or FOH (Front of House) mixing.

6.5 MIDI Control

The MIDI input allows for external control of various amplifier functions, such as channel switching and preset recall. Refer to the Darkglass website for detailed MIDI implementation charts and compatible footswitches.

7. Mantenimentu

• Pulizia: Aduprate un pannu suave è seccu per pulizziari l'esterno ampEvitate detergenti o solventi abrasivi.
• Ventilazione: Regularly check that the ventilation openings are clear of dust and debris. Use compressed air if necessary to clear vents.
• Conservazione: Quandu ùn hè micca adupratu per periodi prolungati, cunservate amplifier in a dry, temperature-controlled environment.
• Ispezione di u cable: Periodically inspect all cables (power, instrument, speaker) for signs of wear or damage. Replace damaged cables immediately.

8. Risoluzione di prublemi

• Nisun putere: Assicuratevi chì u cavu di alimentazione sia cunnessu currettamente à i dui amplifier and a working AC outlet. Check the power switch position.
• Nisun sonu:
  • Verify that a speaker cabinet is connected and the speaker cable is functional.
  • Check the instrument cable and ensure your instrument is working.
  • Ensure the MUTE button is not engaged.
  • Check MASTER and LEVEL knob settings.
• Sonu distortu (inespettatu):
  • Check the X button status; if engaged, adjust DRIVE and MIX.
  • Ensure the input gain (PASSIVE/ACTIVE switch) is appropriate for your instrument.
  • Lower the LEVEL or MASTER volume.
• Ronzio o rumore:
  • Assicuratevi chì tutti i cavi sò schermati bè è cunnessi.
  • Try engaging the GND LIFT switch on the rear panel for DI outputs.
  • Verificate i circuiti di terra in a vostra cunfigurazione.

If problems persist after checking these points, contact Darkglass Electronics support or an authorized service center.

9. Specificazioni

10. Garanzia è Support

Darkglass Electronics products are manufactured to the highest quality standards. For information regarding warranty coverage and terms, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Darkglass Electronics website. For technical support, troubleshooting assistance, or service inquiries, please contact Darkglass Electronics customer support through their official channels.

Elettronica Darkglass Websitu: www.darkglass.com