Operation Modes; Stereo Operation; Parallel Operation; Bridged Operation - Peavey PV 3800 Operating Manual

Operation Modes

Stereo Operation

For stereo (dual channel) operation, turn the amplifier off and set the mode select switches on the back panel to
the OUT (extended) position. In this mode, both channels operate independently of each other with their input
attenuators controlling their respective levels. For example, a signal at channel A's input produces an amplified
signal at channel A's output, while a signal at channel B's input produces an amplified signal at channel B's out-
put.

Parallel Operation

For parallel (dual channel/single input) operation, turn the amplifier off and set the connector mode (Conn,
Mode) switch to the parallel position by depressing the switch. Both input connectors are then strapped together
and drive both channels with the same input signal. Because both connectors are strapped together, either con-
nector can be used with a patch cable to drive the input of another amplifier. Output connections are the same as
in the Stereo Mode. In Parallel Mode, both input attenuators remain active, allowing users to set different levels
for each channel. Power and other general performance specifications are the same as in the Stereo Mode.

Bridged Operation

Both amplifier channels can be bridged together to make a very powerful single-channel monaural amplifier. Use
extreme caution when operating in bridged mode; potentially lethal voltage may be present at the output ter-
minals. To bridge the amplifier, depress the rear panel Amp Mode switch (11) to the IN position. Direct the signal
to channel A's input and connect the speakers across pin +1 and pin +2 of the channel A Speakon® output con-
nector. Only channel A's input attenuator is active while in Bridged Mono mode. Both connectors are strapped
together, so either connector can be used with a patch cable to drive the input of another amplifier. When oper-
ating in the Bridged Mode, both attenuators must be in the same position so the speaker load will be
equally shared between the channels.
Unlike the Stereo and Parallel Modes, in which one side of each output is at ground, in
the Bridged Mode both sides are hot. Pin +1 is Channel A's side, which is the same polar-
ity as the input. The minimum nominal load impedance in the Bridge Mode is 4 ohms,
which is equivalent to driving both channels at 2 ohms. Driving bridged loads of less than
4 ohms will activate DDT™ circuitry, resulting in a loss of power and potential thermal
overload.
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