Grounding Options; Faqs - Radial Engineering X-AMP User Manual

True to the Music

GROUNDING OPTIONS

The radial X-Amp is equipped with two ground disconnect
switches. One is located at the XLR input that lifts pin-1 to
allow the X-Amp to derive its ground from the Direct Out-1
connector. It is important to note that this connection is the
primary ground and should be connected at all times.
A second ground connection is provided for Isolated Out-2
and is set in a 'lifted' as a factory default. This switch is
located on the side panel and accessed with a tweaker.
Depressing this ground switch will connect the ground from
the X-Amp chassis to the output-B ground. Although rarely
used, this could be advantageous in situations where the amp
that is connected to output-B does not have a proper 3-prong
AC connector or has a different ground potential.

FAQs

Can I hurt my amplifier if the X-Amp is set too loud?
No. The X-Amp has been designed to work within the normal
operating ranges of guitar amplifiers and effect pedals.
Is there a difference between the direct and isolated outputs?
Out-1 (direct) and Out-2 (isolated) have been designed to sound
as close to the same as technically possible. The only difference
being that Out-2 employs a custom made isolation transformer
to reduce hum and ground-loop buzz. Always connect Out-1
first to ensure proper grounding.
Why do you have to use Out-1 when using the X-Amp?
Out-1 is the primary ground path for the X-Amp and needs to be
connected to a properly grounded amplifier so that the chassis
can work as a screen against RF and other magnetically induced
noise hazards. Keep in mind that the X-Amp employs a floating
ground plane and needs to be grounded at either the input or the
output.
What should I do if I hear 60 cycle hum in my system?
Try depressing the ground lift switch at the XLR input side. This
will disconnect the ground from the mixer and leave you with a
direct-coupled ground at the primary guitar amplifier.
I heard that the Radial JDI can be used backwards as a
re-amping device?
Yes this is true. The Radial JDI, when driven 'backwards', will
also reverse the impedance from low-Z to hi-Z and allow a
padded down line level to drive the amp at a 10k-ohm level. The
difference however is akin to comparing a passive direct box to
an active direct box or like comparing a dynamic mic to a
condenser. Active boxes tend to have more 'reach' or better
high frequency transfer of upper harmonic detail.
Radial Engineering
X•AMP User Guide
10