Blackstar Unity Elite 700H - PRO BASS SYSTEM Manual

Features

Unity Elite is the result of countless hours of technical research and benchmarking against the most iconic historic references. Designed from the ground up by bass players, for bass players, Unity is straightforward and powerful. The new Unity Elite's deceptively simple controls allow you to quickly and easily create your tone, with rock solid bass, detailed dynamics and innovative features in a compact 700 Watt package.
Blackstar's unique Response control allows the player to choose between the sound and feel of three classic power amp stages, shaping compression, natural drive and dynamics. With three distinct preamp voicings, each having a unique 3-band semi-parametric EQ character, Unity produces infinitely flexible bass tone and exceptional feel, whatever your playing style.
From the organic response of classic valve amps, to a transparent clean platform, Unity Elite brings together the ultimate in bass tone.

Front Panel

1. Input
   Plug your bass guitar in here. Always use a good quality screened instrument cable.
2. Clip Indicator
   This LED illuminates to indicate that the Input stage is being driven into clipping. The Pad Switch (3), Gain (4) and the volume control on your instrument all affect this signal level and at which point the input stage clips. Clipping the input stage (Clip Indicator illuminating) will not cause any damage to your amplifier, and may be desirable depending on your tonal preference.
3. Pad Switch
   Select a gain range according to your instrument pickup using the Pad switch. As a guide, try the 0dB setting for a passive pickup, and the -10dB for an active pickup.
4. Gain
   This controls the gain of the input signal to the preamp stage. For a pristine clean tone turn up the Gain whilst playing hard until the Clip Indicator (2) LED illuminates, then reduce it slightly until the LED no longer lights. When using Overdrive (5) use the Gain control to vary the amount of distortion. Clipping the input stage will not cause any damage to your amplifier, and may be desirable depending on your tonal preference.
5. Voice Select
   Select between three distinct preamp voices:
   • CLASSIC – Valve-inspired growl with vintage EQ
   • MODERN – High headroom dynamics and advanced EQ
   • FLAT – Totally flat, clean and transparent with studio-style EQ

The Overdrive Voice can also be selected via an optional 2-button latching footswitch (16).

6. Drive
   Blend in the desired amount of distortion for the currently selected Drive (7) relative to the clean signal. With the Drive control set to its minimum position (fully counter clockwise) the Drive circuit will be bypassed. As the Drive control is increased (clockwise) the amount of gain and blend is increased, until a fully distorted sound is reached with the control at maximum.
   The currently selected Drive can be switched on and off using the included FS-13 2-way footswitch or the optional FS-12 5-way footcontroller. See the Footcontrollers section.
7. Drive Select
   Select between three distinct Drive types:
   • OVERDRIVE – Smooth, open, harmonically-rich overdrive
   • DIST – Balanced pedal-like distortion
   • FUZZ – In-your-face full-on fuzz

In addition to switching the current Drive on and off, the optional FS-12 5-way footcontroller also allows you to change the currently selected Drive type. See the Footcontrollers section for more detail.

8. Equalisation
   Your Unity Elite amplifier features an advanced semi-parametric EQ which varies multiple underlying parameters to best match the style of the selected Voice (5). This allows for ultimate flexibility when combined with the unique Response (13) control to achieve the sound in your head.

   VOICE	LOW (8)	MID LEVEL (9)	MID FREQUENCY (10)	HIGH (11)
   CLASSIC	±12dB @ 40Hz	+10dB / -20dB	220Hz - 3KHz	+15dB / -20dB @ 4KHz
   MODERN	±15dB @ 40Hz	+15dB / -20dB, with advanced Q morphing notch @ min.	50Hz – 3KHz	±15dB @ 6KHz
   FLAT	±16dB @ 40Hz	±12dB	180Hz - 1KHz	±16dB @ 5KHz

9. Equalisation
10. Equalisation
11. Equalisation
12. Effect Select
    Select a desired effect from the simple but powerful effects section: OFF, CHORUS or OCTAVE. Chorus and Octave effect levels are adjusted using dedicated controls on the rear panel.
    The currently selected effect can be switched on and off using the included FS-13 2-way footswitch. Simply set the Effect Select switch to your chosen effect and toggle it on and off with the footswitch.
    The optional FS-12 footcontroller allows both Chorus and Octave effects to be used simultaneously. See the Footcontrollers section for more detail.
13. Response
    Your Unity Elite amplifier features Blackstar's unique Response control, allowing you to tailor the feel and dynamics of the power stage to best suit your playing style and desired tone. The sag, compression and tonality of three revered power amp stages can be paired with a similar preamp voice to create classic tones, or mix and match to create a sound unique to you.
    Select between three power amp responses:
    • LINEAR – Powerful and articulate – let your playing do the talking
    • 6L6 – Compression and punch of 6L6 power valves
    • 6550 – Dynamics and headroom of high power 6550s
14. Compressor Level
    Controls the overall amount of compression by adjusting the threshold, attack, release and make-up gain simultaneously. Lower settings of the control result in slower attack and release times and a higher threshold. Increasing the control will lower the compression threshold and increase the make-up gain, and make the attack and release times quicker accordingly.
15. Compressor Select
    Switch the Compressor on and off. The optional FS-12 5-way footcontroller can be used to switch the Compressor on and off when used in conjunction with the included FS-13 2-way footswitch. See the Footcontrollers section for more detail.
16. Master Volume
    This controls the overall output volume of your amplifier. Turning it clockwise increases the volume. Setting the Master Volume to zero allows for silent practice or recording via one of the Line Output connections on the rear panel.
    The level of the Cabinet Link XLR output on the rear panel is also controlled by the Master Volume.
17. Power Indicator
    The Power Indicator will be illuminated when the amplifier is switched on.
    This is a multi-function LED which is also able to indicate a fault state within your amplifier by flashing on and off. Your Unity Elite amplifier is equipped with several protection features designed to prevent damage if the normal operating limits are exceeded. If the amplifier detects it is getting too hot it will enter a protection mode and the sound output will be muted; this protection mode will be indicated by the Power Indicator flashing on and off. Once your amplifier cools down sufficiently the sound will automatically unmute and the Power Indicator will return to constantly ON.
    If the Power Indicator continuously flashes on and off a different fault could be present. In this event please contact your point of purchase, local distributor or Blackstar directly for servicing instructions.

Rear Panel

18. Power Switch
    This switch is used to turn the amplifier on and off.
19. Mains Input
    The supplied detachable mains power cable is connected here. Always ensure the Power Switch (18) is in the OFF position and the Voltage Select Switch (20) is showing the correct voltage for your location before applying mains power. The cable should only be connected to a power outlet that is compatible with the voltage, power and frequency requirements stated on the rear panel. Never break off the earth (ground) pin on the mains cable. If in doubt seek advice from a qualified technician.
20. Voltage Select Switch
    Set the correct mains input voltage to match your current location before connecting to a power outlet. Loosely unscrew the hook side of the clear plastic switch cover to rotate it and access the switch if necessary – do not fully remove the plastic switch cover access screws.
    
    Never change the voltage selection whilst the amplifier is switched on. Failure to ensure the correct voltage selection will cause damage to your amplifier and serious risk of injury.
21. Speaker Output
    Connect your amplifier to a passive speaker cabinet here. This speakON combo jack allows for either speakON or 1/4" speaker cable operation. The minimum total rated impedance of this amplifier is 2.67 Ohms; for higher impedances the maximum output power is reduced.
    
    Always ensure the total connected impedance is 2.67 Ohms or greater. Failure to do so could result in damage to the amplifier.

    Cabinets Connected	Total Impedance	Suitable?
    1 x 16 Ohm Cabinet	16 Ohms	✓
    2 x 16 Ohm Cabinets	8 Ohms	✓
    3 x 16 Ohm Cabinets	5.33 Ohms	✓
    1 x 8 Ohm Cabinet	8 Ohms	✓
    2 x 8 Ohm Cabinets	4 Ohms	✓
    3 x 8 Ohm Cabinets	2.67 Ohms	✓
    1 x 4 Ohm Cabinet	4 Ohms	✓
    2 x 4 Ohm Cabinets	2 Ohms	✗
    3 x 4 Ohm Cabinets	1.33 Ohms	✗

    Using high-efficiency Class D power amplifier technology, the maximum output power of your Unity Elite amplifier will vary according to the total impedance of the connected speaker cabinets.

    Total Impedance	Approximate Output Power
    2.67 Ohms	700 Watts
    4 Ohms	500 Watts
    8 Ohms	250 Watts

22. Footswitch
    Connect the included FS-13 2-way footswitch or the optional FS-12 5-way footcontroller here using a standard mono ¼" instrument or speaker cable. See the Footcontrollers section for more detail on the operation and functionality of compatible footcontrollers.
23. MP3 / Line In
    Play audio from any device with a 3.5mm output (e.g. a phone, MP3 player, tablet, laptop etc.) through your Unity Elite amplifier using a 3.5mm (1/8") AUX cable (sold separately). Adjust the volume on your playback device to match that of your bass guitar to enable you to play along. The volume to the external speaker(s) is controlled by the Master Volume knob (16). The MP3/Line In signal is also mixed to the ¼" Headphones output (25) but is not mixed to the XLR Line Output.
24. Line Out (USB)
    This Mini-B-type USB socket is for connection to a computer via a suitable cable (not supplied). It is capable of multiple simultaneous inputs and outputs. Standard audio drivers are used to connect the amplifier to a PC, Mac or other applicable recording device. No specific drivers are required. For a guide on low latency USB recording visit: www.blackstaramps.com/usbrecording
    NOTE: Always connect the amplifier via a main USB port, often found on the rear of the computer.
    The amplifier will appear as an audio capture device within recording software. The audio output via USB from your amplifier directly to your computer is carried across four independent, simultaneous channels:
    Channel 1: Stereo emulated, left channel – The fully processed bass sound, with speaker cabinet emulation. This will include the left channel of the internal stereo chorus.
    Channel 2: Stereo emulated, right channel – The fully processed bass sound, with speaker cabinet emulation. This will include the right channel of the internal stereo chorus.
    Channel 3: Preamp output – The preamp sound of the Voices and EQ stage, without any speaker cabinet emulation. Ideal for use with your own effects and cabinet emulation plugins within your recording software/DAW.
    Channel 4: Unprocessed dry D.I. signal – This is the direct signal from your bass guitar as received by the amplifier. Record this signal for later use during Reamping (see Reamping section below).
    These audio streams can be recorded simultaneously within your chosen recording software/DAW.
    TIP: To record a true stereo chorus affected sound, pan the stereo emulated left channel 100% left in the mix and pan the right channel 100% right.
    Your Unity Pro Bass amplifier can also receive audio input from your computer:
    Channel 1: Line input, left channel – Used for audio monitoring or backing track playback via the speaker(s) and Line Outputs.
    Channel 2: Line input, right channel – Used for audio monitoring or backing track playback via the speaker(s) and Line Outputs.
    Channel 3: Reamping input – Send a pre-recorded unprocessed bass signal to your amplifier for Reamping, when in Reamping mode (see Reamping section below).
    Channel 4: Unused.

Reamping

When activated, Reamping Mode allows your Unity Elite amplifier to accept a prerecorded, dry D.I. signal via USB and this at the input stage. The preamp and effects settings can then be adjusted as required and the return signal can be re-captured using recording software on a connected PC or Mac. Reamping is a very useful recording tool where your desired tone can be chosen after the recorded part has been captured, allowing you to experiment with different sounds and effects without worrying about needing to repeat the perfect take.
Reamping Mode is automatically activated when a USB connection is present and there is NO connection in the instrument input socket (1). Reamping Mode is automatically exited if a cable is connected to the amplifier's instrument input.

Reamping Example
Set up two instrument tracks in a session within your chosen recording software. Assign one of the tracks to USB inputs 1+2 (stereo emulated Line Output from your amplifier) and the other to USB input 4 (unprocessed dry D.I. from your amplifier).
It is advised to always record USB input 4 alongside any fully processed audio from the other USB inputs, just in case you wish to adjust the tone of the recording after the take. To do this, simply unplug the instrument cable from your amplifier's input and play back the pre-recorded unprocessed D.I. signal from your recording software to USB output 3 (the amplifier's Reamping input). Playback of this track will then be heard through your amplifier's speaker(s) and Line Outputs, and the tone can be adjusted as normal using the controls on the top and rear of your amplifier. Once your desired tone has been found simply restart the playback of the unprocessed D.I. signal via your recording software and simultaneously record the stereo emulated audio returned from your amplifier from USB inputs 1+2.

25. Headphones
    A stereo ¼" output for connecting your headphones for monitoring or silent practice. The output signal is defined by the position of the Line Out Level knob (26) and Em. Out/D.I. switch (27). The Chorus effect is stereo to this output when the Emulated Output is selected. Set the Master Volume knob (16) to zero for silent practice.
26. Line Out Level
    This control can cut or boost the signal level sent to all Line Outputs. This knob affects the USB audio (24), Headphone (25) and XLR (28) Line outputs, but not the external speaker volume.
27. Emulated Output / D.I.
    This switch affects which audio signal is sent to the Headphone (25) and XLR (28) Line Outputs:
    • Emulated Output (switch OUT) – full preamp signal of Gain, Drive, EQ and effects will be sent to the Line Outputs. Emulates the tonal characteristics of a bass speaker cabinet and provides a natural tone for direct recording.
    • D.I. (switch IN) – the direct signal from your bass guitar as received by the amplifier, taken after the input Gain knob (4) and Pad switch (3).
28. XLR Line Out
    This is a balanced output for connection to a PA, mixing desk or interface for recording and monitoring. Using a good quality screened cable, the balanced XLR connection provides a high quality signal, free of noise. The output signal is defined by the position of the Line Out Level knob (26) and Em. Out/D.I. switch (27).
    NOTE: Your Unity Elite amplifier will NOT be damaged by applying Phantom power to the XLR Line Output, and will have no effect on the operation of the amplifier.
29. Ground Lift
    This switch can be used to remove the circuit-to-chassis ground connection of the XLR output, which can help if experiencing hum or noise upon connecting to an external device. If you do experience a hum when connecting the XLR Output (28) to an external device, engage the Ground Lift by depressing the button to lift the ground on the circuit.
30. Effects Loop Send
    Connect to the (mono) input of an external effects unit here. This can also be used as a preamp output for direct recording.
31. Effects Loop Return
    Connect the (mono) output of an external effects unit here.
32. Chorus Level
    This control adjusts the amount of fixed-rate chorus effect that is mixed with your original signal when the Chorus is selected using the Effect Select switch (12). This ranges from a very subtle amount of 'shimmer' (often used to lift the bass sound in a live or recorded mix) to a fully effected 'swell' for a more atmospheric sound.
33. Octave Blend
    This control adjusts the mix of the octave down and octave up effects when Octave is selected on the Effect Select switch (12). With this knob set to minimum only the octave down will be blended with your original signal. Set to maximum, only the octave up will be blended with your original signal. A proportional mix of both octave down and octave up can be blended with your original signal as this control is moved towards the centre position.
34. Cabinet Link
    Extend your setup by connecting a Blackstar Unity Pro Bass U250ACT Active Cabinet (sold separately) to the Cabinet Link output using an XLR cable. Multiple U250ACT Active Cabinets can be linked together to create a modular setup with near-limitless power, where each U250ACT adds up to 250W of additional power through a custom-designed 15" Eminence speaker.
    The Cabinet Link output level is controlled by the Master Volume (16), and creates a true stereo setup when connected to a Blackstar U250ACT with the Chorus effect engaged.

Footcontrollers

FS-13 2-way footswitch (supplied)

Connect this footcontroller to the Footswitch socket (22) on the rear of your amplifier using any standard mono guitar cable or speaker cable (supplied).
Pressing button 'A' on your FS-13 will toggle the current Drive selection on/off. Pressing button 'B' will toggle the current Effect selection on/off.

FS-12 5-way footcontroller (not supplied)

Connect this footcontroller to the Footswitch socket (22) on the rear of your amplifier using any standard mono guitar cable or speaker cable.
Pressing button 'A' on your FS-12 will scroll through each of the three Voices. The LED above button 'A' will indicate the currently selected Voice, where Green = CLASSIC, Orange = MODERN and Red = FLAT.
Button 'B' will toggle your selected Drive on/off. You can select which Drive is currently active with a single press of buttons 'A' and 'B' simultaneously (scroll 'down') or a single press of buttons and 'B' and 'C' simultaneously (scroll 'up'). The LED above Button 'B' will indicate the currently selected Drive, where Green = OD, Orange = DIST and Red = FUZZ. The currently selected Drive is also shown on the display in the centre of the FS-12. When the Drive knob (5) on the top panel is at zero the Drive blend will be OFF and the FS-12 display will be blank.
Pressing button 'C' will toggle the Chorus effect on/off and button 'D' will toggle the Octave effect on/off. Using the optional FS-12 footcontroller the Chorus and Octave effects can be used simultaneously.
Pressing button 'E' will engage the chromatic tuner. This will also mute all sound output from your Unity Pro Bass amplifier.
The press of any button will be accompanied by a scrolling message of the corresponding action on the FS-12 central display.

FS-12 + FS-13 7-Way Switching

Connect the FS-12 5-way footcontroller to your Unity Elite amplifier as detailed above, then connect your supplied FS-13 2-way footswitch to the 'EXT' socket of your FS-12 using any standard mono instrument or speaker cable.
In this configuration, Button 'A' on your FS-13 will toggle the Compressor on/off, and button 'B' will toggle the Effects Loop on/off. When using this 7-way switching configuration the two markers at the right side of the display on the FS-12 will show the on/off state for the function of each FS-13 switch.

Technical Specification

Unity U700H Elite
Power (RMS): 700 Watts @ 2.67 Ohms minimum impedance
Weight (kg): 4.2
Dimensions (mm): 378(W) x 77(H) x 245(D)
Footswitch: FS-13 included, optional FS-12 for additional functionality

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with dry cloth.
7. Do not block any ventilation openings.
8. Install in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
9. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
10. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
11. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
12. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
14. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as the power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.

"TO COMPLETELY DISCONNECT THIS APPARATUS FROM THE AC MAINS, DISCONNECT THE POWER SUPPLY CORD PLUG FROM THE AC RECEPTACLE".
"WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPARATUS TO RAIN OR MOISTURE AND OBJECTS FILLED WITH LIQUIDS, SUCH AS VASES, SHOULD NOT BE PLACED ON THIS APPARATUS".
This symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operation and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.
This symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated "dangerous voltage" within the product's enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.

RISK OF ELECTIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN

Important safety information!
READ THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION CAREFULLY. SAVE ALL INSTRUCTIONS FOR FUTURE REFERENCE!
Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the product!

High internal operating voltages
Do not open the equipment case. There are no user serviceable parts in this equipment. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
Clean only with a dry cloth.
Condensation can form on the inside of an amplifier if it is moved from a cold environment to a warmer location. Before switching the unit on, it is recommended that the unit be allowed to reach room temperature.
Unauthorised modification of this equipment is expressly forbidden by Blackstar Amplification Ltd.
Never push objects of any kind into ventilation slots on the equipment casing.
Do not expose this apparatus to rain, liquids or moisture of any type.
Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the product!
Do not place this product on an unstable trolley, stand or table. The product may fall, causing serious damage to the product or to persons!
Do not cover or block ventilation slots or openings.
This product should not be placed near a source of heat such as a stove, radiator, or another heat producing amplifier.
Use only the supplied power cord which is compatible with the mains voltage supply in your area.
Power supply cords should always be handled carefully and should be replaced if damaged in any way.
Never break off the earth (ground) pin on the power supply cord.
The power supply cord should be unplugged when the unit is to be unused for long periods of time.
Before the unit is switched on, the loudspeaker should be connected as described in the handbook using the lead recommended by the manufacturer.
Always replace damaged fuses with the correct rating and type.
Never disconnect the protective mains earth connection.
High loudspeaker levels can cause permanent hearing damage. You should therefore avoid the direct vicinity of loudspeakers operating at high levels. Wear hearing protection if continuously exposed to high levels.
If the product does not operate normally, when the operating instructions are followed, then refer the product to a qualified service engineer.
The U.S. Government´s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has specified the following permissible noise level exposures:

According to OSHA, any exposure in excess of the above permissible limits could result in some hearing loss.
Ear plug protectors in the ear canals or over the ears must be worn when operating this amplification system in order to prevent a permanent hearing loss if exposure is in excess of the limits as set forth above. To ensure against potentially dangerous exposure to high sound pressure levels, it is recommended that all persons exposed to equipment capable of producing high sound pressure levels such as this amplification system be protected by hearing protectors while this unit is in operation.

Blackstar Amplification Ltd, Beckett House, 14 Billing Road, Northampton, NN1 5AW, UK
For the latest information go to: www.blackstaramps.com