Acoustic Image Series III - Manual (Page 3)

1
Welcome to Acoustic Image!
You have purchased a state-of-the-art musical instrument amplifier, combining
purity, power and portability in a package that sets a new standard in high
fidelity amplification.
Each of our designs is engineered to accurately reproduce the sound of
acoustic and electric instruments, delivering flat frequency response across
the entire musical spectrum; extended, tight, well-controlled bass; and
complete clarity of sound reproduction.
This manual provides operating information for your Acoustic Image Clarus 1,
Clarus 2R, Focus 1 and Focus 2R integrated amplifiers.
The Basics
All Acoustic Image integrated amplifiers are based on the same superb class-D
power amp that delivers 400-watts into 4 ohms (Clarus amps) or 800-watts into
4 ohms (Focus amps) power amplifier and on a sophisticated, sensitive
preamplifier. The features of the preamp and the power amp rating define the
specific amplifier model.
The power amp is a high efficiency design that requires no external heat sinks
or cooling fans and is capable of driving loads as low as 2 ohms. AC power and
output speaker jacks are located on the rear of the chassis. A standard, three-
prong detachable AC power cord is used to provide power to the unit, while AC
voltage selection switch allows the unit to operate at 115V/60 Hz or 230V/50
Hz. Japan models operate at 100V, 50/60 Hz only. See the rear panel of your
amp to verify the AC voltage capability.
The Clarus 1 and Focus 1 are equipped with a one-channel preamp, the Clarus
2R and Focus 2R add a second, identical channel and a six-program effects
unit.
The input channels of both preamp types incorporate combo jack
interfaces that allow either a high impedance instrument input (to optimize the
sound of piezo-type pickups) or a mic input,
an effects loop
with return level control, a selectable notch/low cut filter for feedback control
and reduction of low frequency boominess, a direct out capability with ground
lift and pre/post EQ switch, a master level control and a mute switch. The two-
channel preamp has a switch that allows the second channel to be
disconnected from the main amp and connected to a satellite power amp to
create a stereo system.
Yours is a high fidelity amplifier with full-range frequency response and low
distortion and noise that will accurately amplify your sound. Onboard EQ is
sufficient to overcome room acoustics and subtly shape the sound of your
instrument. However, you should note that our amps are not designed to play at
tonal extremes or to allow an overdriven distorted output. To achieve these,
use an external effects box.
Your amp comes with a padded case and a speaker cable (Speakon to 1/4
inch).
a three-band EQ,
2
Power
Preamp
Plug the detachable AC power cord into the receptacle on the back of the amp
and into a wall receptacle. A power switch next to the AC connector turns on
power to the pre- and power amps, illuminating a “power on” indicator on the
front panel of the amp. A 6.3-amp fast blow fuse(Clarus models) or 8-amp fast
blow fuse (Focus models) is mounted on the back panel. To replace the fuse,
turn off the amp, remove the AC cord and use a small screwdriver to remove
the fuse from the fuse holder. A spare fuse is included with this manual.
AIl amps will work with either 115 volt, 60 Hz AC or 230 volt, 50 Hz AC power. A
switch located on the rear panel selects the appropriate voltage. Note that the
correct AC power cord must be used for connection to the appropriate wall
plug. If you do not have the right cord, you can buy one from an electronics or
computer store. Be sure the switch is in the correct position for the intended
application.
Please note that units sold in Japan operate at 100 volts only. The above
mentioned voltage switch is not available for these units.
The Clarus and Focus amps use combo jacks for the input to each channel of
their preamp. Either an XLR or 1/4 inch connector can be plugged into this type
of jack. The 1/4 inch input has a 1 megohm input impedance that is optimized to
get the best sound from piezo pickups. The XLR input is a low impedance
balanced input with sufficient gain to allow microphones to be plugged into it.
Phantom power is available through the connector for powering a mic or
outboard preamp and can be activated using the push button switch located
next to the connector. To avoid an audible “pop”, set the mic input level control
all the way off when switching on the phantom power. An LED indicates when
phantom power is on. The two channels of the Clarus 2R and Focus 2R can be
blended to mix two instruments, 2 microphones or a mic and an instrument
thereby performing much like a small PA system.
Operation at 230 volts with the switch in the 115 volt position
will damage the unit.
Operation of a 100
volt amp at any other voltage than 100 volts will damage the unit.
Inputs
Refer to the signal flow diagram and the control panel drawings (page 4).
Controls
The preamp has the following controls in each channel: input level, bass, mid,
treble and effects level. In addition, there is a variable frequency, selectable
Operation
Clarus Rear Panel (Focus rear panel is similar)
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK,
DO NOT REMOVE COVER.
NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS
INSIDE. REFER SERVICING
TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL.
C A U T I O N : T O R E D U C E THE RISK OF FIRE, REPLACE
FUSE WITH THE SAME TYPE
6.3A FAST BLOW FUSE
Fuse Power Switch Voltage Switch
115/230V
AC Input
115/230 VAC
50/60 Hz
400 Watts
Speaker Output 2 min W
0 I
1 15V