Effects Loop; External Speaker Output - Gibson “Goldtone” GA-15 Operating Instructions Manual

Effects Loop ("Goldtone" GA-30RVS only)
This has sockets for SEND, LEFT/MONO RETURN and RIGHT RETURN as well as a
switch for SERIES or PARALLEL configuration.
The SEND is for connection to the input of effects units and can drive floor type battery
powered effects pedals or 19" rack type studio effects units.
The RETURN sockets are for connection to the outputs of effects units. If a mono effect
unit is used then use the LEFT/MONO RETURN.
The SERIES/PARALLEL switch alters the configuration of the effects loop.
In SERIES mode the whole signal comes out of the amp, into the effects unit and then
back into the amp, whereas in PARALLEL mode the effected signal is mixed in with the
original dry signal, thus retaining tonal purity of the dry signal.
The choice of which mode to use will depend on what kind of effects unit is used and
what overall effect is desired. Generally if time delay effects are used, such as delay
(echo), chorus, flanging, phasing, etc., then the PARALLEL setting is usually preferred. If
volume or EQ related effects are used, such as overdrive/distortion, compression, graphic
equalisation, wah-wah or volume pedals, or if a multi-effects unit is used with a
combination of time delay and volume related effects, then it is usually best to set the
switch to SERIES. There are no rules, it is best to experiment and see what you prefer. If
PARALLEL configuration is used then, if possible, it is recommended that dry/direct signal
from the effects unit is turned off.
The effects loop is not activated unless a jack plug is inserted into the LEFT/MONO
RETURN socket. The loop is then footswitchable if a suitable latching footswich is
connected to the appropriate footswitch socket.
It is also possible to use the "Goldtone" GA-30RVS purely as a stand alone mono/stereo
power amp.
To do this set the loop to SERIES configuration, this will effectively eliminate the preamp
and plug signal source(s) into the RETURN socket(s).
External speaker output ("Goldtone" GA-15 & GA-15RV)
This is provided so that the user can connect the unit to an external 16Ω speaker cabinet,
such as a 4 x 12, for a different sound. This is useful for both live and studio use and can
radically change the sound of the amplifier. Try it at a high volume into a 4 x 12 and you
will not believe you are playing a 15 watt amp!
When the jack is inserted into this socket the internal speaker is disconnected. Always
ensure that the amplifier is correctly loaded when in use.
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