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SC2000 Solid State
musical instrument
amplifier
owner’s manual
CONGRATULATIONS! You have just purchased a Carvin product, the best value on the market
today. Before operating, we suggest you read this manual through completely, to acquaint yourself
with all the functions and features at your disposal.
Your Carvin equipment has been carefully packed in rugged corrugated boxes with corner blocks to
insure the best possible shipping conditions. Remove the equipment carefully from the packing
container.
At this time, the equipment should be visually inspected for damage caused by shipping abuse. If
any damage is located, the transportation company should be notified immediately, and a claim
made against the damages. A copy should also be sent to Carvin.
By filling in the form below, you will have immediate access to the model and serial numbers of
your equipment. Your warranty cards, while containing this same information, should be filed in a
safe place (after mailing top half in to Carvin).
Model No. Description Serial No. Date Rec.
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SETTING UP
Remove any items in the rear of the amplifier, including speaker cords, packing paper, and
footswitch, if included. Uncoil the AC line cord and plug into a standard, 3-conductor
grounded-type outlet. (Warning: Carvin does not recommend the use of 2-conductor non-grounding
outlets, due to the possibility of electrical shock. If such outlets must be used, GROUND Switch
should be set for minimum hum). Plug speaker system into either SPEAKER Output jack. Depress
the white rocker switch marked POWER, and note that the red pilot light is on. The amplifier is
now ready for use.
WARRANTY
Your Carvin Solid State Amplifier is protected by a solid Five Year Warranty. If, at any time
during the first five years you own this equipment, anything should go wrong, Carvin will service it
free of charge.
While Carvin suggests you utilize the specialized technicians of the Carvin Service Dept.,
non-factory repairs will not void the warranty, although all charges for such repairs must be paid for
by the customer. Furthermore, Carvin will supply amp parts (at no charge) upon receipt of
defective parts. Naturally, any damages caused by improper outside repairs will not be covered by
the warranty.
Carvin speaker systems and related components are covered for a period of 1 year, with the
exception of Altec, JBL and Electro Voice components, which are guaranteed for 5 years by the
manufacturers.
All above warranties are extended to the original purchaser only, by the Carvin Music and Sound
Mfg. Company, and do not cover failures caused by misuse or natural disasters.
This Carvin Product is offered with a 10 day free trial period to allow the purchaser to evaluate
its performance. The following two steps should be taken immediately after a decision to keep the
unit is made.
1.) Fill out the Warranty Card and mail the top half back to Carvin. Note that the Warranty is
VOID if not returned within 15 days of receiving the equipment. The bottom half of the card is
your copy and should be filed in a safe place. If the need for factory servicing should ever arise, you
should not send this copy in, as the top half will be maintained on file at Carvin.
2.) Obtain the use of an “electric pencil” or similar engraving tool, and etch your name into the
rear chassis. This will serve as a more permanant form of identification than the serial number tag,
and will facilitate recovery in the event of theft.
SPECIFICATIONS
POWER OUTPUT 125 Watts RMS minimum at 4 Ohms—85 Watts RMS
at 8 Ohms. (Can be loaded to 2 Ohms, but with no
power increase).
HARMONIC AND INTER-
MODULATION DISTORTION Less than 0.5% at 125 Watts RMS.
S/N RATIO Better than 70 dB.
SPEAKER IMPEDANCE 2 through 16 Ohms. Speaker jacks are wired in
parallel.
FREQUENCY RESPONSE 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz + 1 dB.
SENSITIVITY 10 mv for full output.
GRAPHIC EQUALIZER Active, 7-Band.
BAND WIDTH 6 One-Octave Filters
1 Multi-Octave Filter (High Frequency Band)
CENTER
FREQUENCIES 60, 120, 250, 500, 1K, 2K, 8K Hz
FREQUENCY
RESPONSE 15 Hz to 20K Hz +2 dB (All sliders at mid-position)
NOISE INSERTION Less than 1dB
FILTER DESIGN Active, R-C tuned
DISTORTION Less than 0.05% (THD and IM)
POWER TRANSISTORS 4 Premium RCA 150 Watt Transistors mounted on
320 square inches of large finned Aluminum Heat
Sinks for full, continuous Power output without
external fans.
VOLTAGE REQUIREMENTS 120 VAC 50-60 Hz.
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1. INPUT JACKS 5. POWER DRIVE
2. NORMAL MASTER VOLUME 6. PILOT LIGHT
3. SUSTAIN MASTER VOLUME 7. GROUND
4. 7-BAND GRAPHIC EQUALIZER 8. POWER SWITCH
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9. LINE CORD 12. & 13. SPEAKER OUTPUTS
10. FUSE-HOLDER 14. PREAMP IN/OUT
11. ACCESSORY AC OUTLET 15. SUSTAIN FOOTSWITCH JACK
FRONT CHASSIS
INPUT JACKS
Your Carvin amp features two input jacks. The top jack, labelled HI has greater gain than the
bottom jack (LO). Normally, the HI jack will be used. However, if you find the amplifier
consistently too loud, then use the LO jack. (Note: The amount of sustain is somewhat lower when
using the LO jack).
NORMAL MASTER VOLUME
As this control is advanced, the volume of clean (normal) sound increases. When a clean sound is
desired, the SUSTAIN MASTER VOLUME should be fully off (counterclockwise).
SUSTAIN MASTER VOLUME
As this control is advanced, the volume of distorted sound (similar to Fuzz) is increased. The
actual degree of distortion, as well as the length of the sustain, is determined by the input level
provided by your instrument.
For example, using a guitar, maximum sustain is produced with the guitar volume(s) on full. Less
pronounced distortion results from turning the volume of the guitar down. In fact, it is possible to
obtain a clean (non-distorted) sound from the SUSTAIN MASTER VOLUME by turning the
instrument's volume way down. Maximum distortion and sustain can be produced only when the
instrument's volume control is fully on. The SUSTAIN MASTER VOLUME regulates the volume of
the distortion, not the degree.
Note: Both NORMAL and SUSTAIN MASTER VOLUMES can be in use at the same time for
increased drive. However, maximum effect is obtained by using only one at a time.
SEVEN-BAND GRAPHIC EQUALIZER
Of all the features offered, the Carvin Seven-Band Graphic Equalizer makes the most important
single contribution to your unit's flexibility. To help understand the Graphic Equalizer, consider
that the ordinary bass and treble system is actually a two-band equalizer.
Such a system divides the entire audio spectrum (everything you can hear) into two sections. The
lower frequencies are called “Bass”, and the higher frequencies are called “Treble”. Each section is
given its own passive volume control, so the sound level of one section can be changed without
affecting the other section. By “turning up the bass”, you are simply making the lower (bass)
frequencies louder, without changing the higher (treble) frequencies.
The Carvin 7-BAND GRAPHIC EQUALIZER divides the audio spectrum into seven separate
sections, or bands. Obviously, each band covers a smaller area of frequencies than the bass/treble
system. Specifically, each of the first six bands covers one-octave of sound. What this means is a
very precise control of the “frequency-response””, or tonal characteristics, of your amplifier.
Using the slider-type controls against the grid of white lines forms a simple graph of the
amplifier's frequency response (hence the term GRAPHIC). When all the sliders are positioned in
the middle, the graph shows a straight line, representing a “flat” frequency response. This means
that no tones are boosted or cut, so the sound is natural, and is exactly what the original instrument
is producing.
By raising any one of the slider controls, that band of frequencies gets louder, while the other
frequencies remain the same. Likewise, lowering any slider makes that band quieter.
All of the slider controls may be set at maximum, which will provide a higher output volume.
However, adequate volume is always obtainable through the volume control, and the flattest
response is available when all the sliders are set at the mid-position.
Rather than labelling the bands “Deep Bass,” “Middle Bass,” “Hi Bass,” etc, the sliders are
identified by the band they control. The center-frequencies (in Hz, or cycles-per-second) are printed
under each slider, rather than the whole band. The full frequencies covered by each band are listed
below. Note that the highest filter covers a broader range. This is because the highest notes of most
electronic instruments are well below 3,000 Hz (3K Hz). The guitar's highest note, for example, is
about 1.24K Hz (1,240 Hz). The highest band covers all the harmonic overtones, leaving six bands
to provide maximum control of your instrument's fundamental notes.
CENTER FREQUENCY FREQUENCIES COVERED BY BAND
60 Hz 30 to 90 Hz
120 Hz 90 to 180 Hz
250 Hz 180 to 375 Hz
500 Hz 375 to 750 Hz
1K Hz 750 to 1500 Hz
2K Hz 1500 to 3000 Hz
8K Hz 3K to 18K Hz
An excellent way to acquaint yourself with the 7-BAND GRAPHIC EQUALIZER is to set up the
amp with all of the sliders at minimum (the lowest position). While playing, raise one slider
separately to hear the sound of that particular band, then return it to minimum. Repeat that with
all seven sliders. Next, set the amplifier for a flat response (all sliders at mid-position). Try boosting
one band by raising its slider to maximum. Then cut that same band by lowering the slider to
minimum. Return the slider to its mid-position and repeat with the other six bands.
You will soon discover that a variety of different sounds are available from this one amplifier.
Certain settings will produce sounds that you will especially like. The graphic design will make
remembering those settings very easy.
POWER DRIVE
This switch alters the characteristics of the amplifier's power-output section. The result is an
instantaneous increase in power output.
PILOT LIGHT
The pilot light provides a visual indication that the amplifier is on.
GROUND
When your amplifier is plugged into a properly wired, three-conductor grounding outlet, this
switch will have no effect. However, if an adaptor is used to match the older, two-conductor
(non-grounding) type of outlet, the switch should be set for minimum hum and/or string “clicks”.
POWER SWITCH
This switch turns the amplifier on. All volume settings should be at minimum when power 15
applied.
REAR CHASSIS
LINE CORD
All Carvin Equipment is supplied with three-conductor line cords ending in grounding-type plugs.
This arrangement will greatly reduce the possibility of electrical shock, provided the equipment is
used with three-conductor grounding-type outlets, and provided these outlets have been properly
wired. If, at any time, electrical shock is experienced, disconnect the amplifier and have a qualified
technician correct the trouble.
Carvin does not recommend the use of the older, two-conductor non-grounding type of outlets,
as there is an increased danger of electrical shock. If use of this type of outlet is unavoidable, setting
the GROUND switch for minimum hum will also minimize the possibility of such shock.
FUSE HOLDER
Access to the fuse can be gained by pushing the fuse holder inwards, then turning
counterclockwise. The type of fuse to be used is printed just below the fuse-holder. Should the fuse
ever fail, replace it with an identical fuse (an extra fuse is provided). If the second fuse fails, then a
problem is indicated, and the amp should be serviced. To prevent excessive damage to the amplifier,
NEVER USE A FUSE WITH A HIGHER RATING.
ACCESSORY AC OUTLET
A three-conductor grounded-type of AC output is provided on the rear of the chassis to power
additional equipment. This outlet is not switched, but remains on always, allowing individual
equipment to be powered independently. Note the wattage rating of 400 Watts, and never connect
equipment that draws more than this.
SPEAKER OUTPUTS
Two %” phone jacks, wired in parallel are provided. Directly under the jacks is printed the
amplifier's minimum impedance rating. The combined speaker impedance must never be less than
this amount. A more complete discussion of speaker impedances and their effects is provided
immediately after this section.
PRE AMP IN/OUT
This jack may be used either to drive a separate power amp, such as the Carvin SV 125 or SV250,
or to accept an outside pre-amplifier. The jack taps the circuitry between the channel pre-amps and
the power-output section.
SUSTAIN FOOTSWITCH JACK
Used with the FS-11 Footswitch, this jack provides instant remote switching from a “clean” to a
"' distortion/sustain” sound. For more information, see “FOOTSWITCH FS-11.”
FOOTSWITCH FS-11
The FS-11 Footswitch is available as an option to provide remote switching of the NORMAL and
SUSTAIN MASTER VOLUME. To use, the footswitch cord is plugged into the
NORMAL/SUSTAIN Footswitch jack, located on the rear of the chassis. Depressing the red tag
changes the output of the amplifier from a clean sound to a sustained, distorted sound, rich in
harmonics. The volume level of the clean sound is controlled by the NORMAL MASTER VOLUME,
and the volume of the sustained sound is controlled by the SUSTAIN MASTER VO LUME.
By reducing the instrument's volume controls, a clean sound can be obtained from the SUSTAIN
MASTER VOLUME, as described earlier. Therefore, the FS-11 Footswitch can be used as a volume
switching footswitch, with the different volumes adjusted to any desired levels by the two MASTER
VOLUMES.
The FS-11 controls an internal switching system located in the pre-amplifier. The final switching
is actually done by a C-MOS integrated circuit. By inserting the footswitch plug, one of the two
MASTER VOLUMES (depending upon the footswitch setting) is electronically switched off.
Depressing the FS-11 instantly reverses which MASTER VOLUME is on, and which is off. Finally,
removing the footswitch restores both MASTER VOLUMES to “on”, where they are operated as
described earlier in the manual.
WHY WORRY ABOUT IMPEDANCE?
SOLID-STATE AMPLIFIERS
All solid state amplifiers deliver their maximum power output 10 the lowest recommended
speaker impedance. This lowest value is marked below the speaker jacks on the rear of Carvin
Amplifiers. (“Total Minimum Imp”).
For example, a 260 Watt Carvin amplifier is rated at 2 Ohms, minimum. This means that the
maximum power, 250 Watts RMS, can be obtained using a speaker system with an impedance of 2
Ohms. Using a system with a 4 Ohm impedance, this amp will deliver 160 Watts RMS, and about
100 Watts into an 8 Ohm system.
Note that using impedances of /ess than the minimum results in an overload condition, and
should never be allowed. Impedances greater than the minimum can always be used, but with a
slight loss in maximum power.
TUBE AMPLIFIERS
Tube amplifiers are not coupled directly to the speaker, as are solid-state amps. Instead, an
output transformer provides an exact match to a specific impedance. Most well-designed tube
amplifiers incorporate a switch to accomodate different speaker impedances. Full output power is
always delivered to the impedance selected by the switch.
HOW CAN YOU DETERMINE IMPEDANCE?
Single speakers and speaker systems are always rated by the manufacturer. Common impedances
are two, four, eight and sixteen Ohms, although other values are sometimes used.
When more than one speaker, or speaker system, is combined, however, the impedance changes.
The three basic interconnecting methods are shown below, with the changes in impedance each
method causes. Although the drawing shows single speakers, the same is true of speaker systems.
4 onus 16 onus 8 OHMS
PARALLEL SERIES SERIES- PARALLEL
When using speakers (or speaker systems) of impedances other than 8 Ohms, simply divide or
multiply as necessary.
For example: A parallel combination of 4 Ohms (8 Ohms + 2) is 2 Ohms (4 Ohms + 2).
Similarly, a series combination of 16 Ohms (8 Ohms x 2) is 32 Ohms (16 x 2 = 32).
Remember that Carvin amplifiers feature two jacks wired in parallel. So if you plug one 16 Ohm
speaker into each jack, what is the total impedance? 8 Ohms.
Your Carvin Product is one of the highest quality units available. With modest effort, it can be
kept looking that way. A quick weekly cleaning is usually all that is required.
All vinyl surfaces can be kept in new condition by using one of the popular
furniture polish/spray-wax products.
A new, inexpensive paint brush is an excellent investment for dusting the knobs
and chassis as well as the heat-sinks or tubes.
The paint brush also does a fine job in cleaning the dust from gille cloth material.
Stubborn dirt may be removed with a tissue moistened in common rubbing
alcohol.
Heavy vinyl covers are available for all Carvin equipment, and are strongly
recommended for maximum protection against dirt, dust and abuse.
In the event that servicing becomes necessary, repack the equipment as carefully as possible in
the original shipping carton. (If this is no longer available, extra care should be used to provide
maximum shipping protection). Include a note describing the nature of the malfunction in full
detail. The note may be affixed to the unit with masking tape. Return the equipment via United
Parcel Service (UPS) or Parcel Post.
Allow up to 5 days for factory servicing, and from 6 to 12 days shipping time.
We thank you for the privilege of sharing this Carvin product with you. All comments,
suggestions and evaluations are welcomed. Please address such correspondence to:
Carvin Music and Sound Mfg. Co.
Research and Development
1155 Industrial Avenue
Escondido, California 92025
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