Name:    Steve Kennedy
Email:   steve@pacair.com  
Subject: What do these jacks do??
Thread:  65
Time:    Fri, 27 Apr 2001 05:31:03 GMT

To best use these jacks, you will need to construct a special cable or buy an adapter.


These are Stereo TRS (Tip/Ring/Sleeve)1/4" jacks. The TIP connection is the INPUT to the following stages, the RING connection is the OUTPUT from the previous stages and the SLEEVE is GROUND. A stereo 1/4" "headphone" plug to two mono 1/4" jacks is a relatively common adapter if you don't want to make a special cable.


If you don't need one of the connections, then don't use it. Use only what you need when making a custom cable or modifying a standard cable with a new TRS plug.


Besides the difference in input/output levels, these jacks are ALSO located at different places in the circuitry of the amp.


The 100mV jack is located AFTER the input preamp and tone controls, but BEFORE the Distortion and Reverb (or Phasor on an RP model) stages. This is also before the output volume controls.


The 3 Volt jack is located AFTER the Distortion/Reverb/Phasor sections but just prior to the power amp.


So, if you want to use the amp's "effects", you will need to use the 100mV jack. If you want ONLY the output amplifier, you will have to use the 3 Volt jack and drive it with a larger signal.


Get the model number of your amp from the rear plate and download the proper schematic for your model if you want any more technical info on this.