Introduction - Hartke LH500 Owner's Manual

Introduction

Congratulations on purchasing the Hartke LH Series Bass Amplifier! Although these amplifiers have been designed
for easy operation, we suggest you first take some time to go through these pages so you can fully understand
how we've implemented a number of unique features. This manual covers both LH Series models, the LH500 and
LH1000. The model LH500 produces 350 watts when connected to a speaker system with an 8-ohm load, and 500
watts when connected to a speaker system with a 4-ohm load. The Model LH1000 features a dual 500-watt power
core for a total of 1000 watts of power. With that kind of power, the Models LH500 and LH1000 are EXTREMELY
loud and punchy. The LH Series vintage style tube preamp is pure tone, just plug in. The front panel controls are
simple and logically laid out starting with inputs for PASSIVE and ACTIVE basses, VOLUME control, BRIGHT switch,
a musical equalizer section featuring BASS, MID and TREBLE controls, plus LIMITER switch and XLR DIRECT OUT. In
addition, the Model LH1000 offers a BALANCE control, which allows you to adjust the level balance between two
different cabinets like when powering a rig with one 4 x 10 and one 1 x 15. Speaking of bass cabinets, the LH Series
are a perfect compliment for any of the Hartke XL and Hartke VX series bass enclosures. And, for the latest in world
changing (really) bass speaker technology, check out the new Hartke Hydrive HX Series bass enclosures. The Hydrive
feature Hartke's hybrid cone, neodymium magnet, high power handling Hydrive bass speakers (Patent Pending).
Check them out at hartke.com. The LH Series rear panels have 1/4-inch EFFECTS SEND and RETURN for connecting
external effects processors, plus 1/4-inch and Speakon connectors for connecting your bass cabinet or cabinets.
The LH Series all metal chassis with convenient handles are rack-mountable taking just two spaces in a standard 19-
inch equipment rack. The Model LH500 and LH1000 are optimized for use with electric bass instruments, and the
front panel controls in both models are virtually identical. You'll find either to be an excellent bass amplifier for live
performance use in small and medium-size venues; in addition, the classic tube pre-amp make the Model LH500 and
LH1000's ideal for use in recording environments.
In these pages, you'll find a detailed description of the many features of the Model LH500 and LH1000 bass
amplifiers, as well as a guided tour through their front and rear panels, step-by-step instructions for setting up and
using each product, detailed discussions about equalization and compression, and full specifications. You'll also
find a warranty card enclosed—please don't forget to fill it out and mail it so that you can receive online technical
support and so we can send you updated information about these and other Hartke products in the future. Also, be
sure to check out our website (hartke.com) for complete information about our full product line.
With proper care and adequate air circulation, your LH Series head will operate trouble free for many years. We
recommend you record your serial number in the space provided below for future reference.
Serial number: _________________________
Date of purchase: _______________________
SPECIAL NOTE: Should your unit ever require servicing, a Return Authorization number (RA) is necessary. Without
this number, the unit will not be accepted. Please call Samson Technologies at (516) 932-1062 for a Return
Authorization number prior to shipping your unit. Please retain the original packing material and, if possible, return
the unit in its original carton and packing materials. If you purchased your Samson product outside the United States,
please contact your local distributor for warranty information and service.
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