¶ The Quilter Steelaire Series
¶ IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
1 – Read and keep these instructions.
2 – Heed all warnings and follow all instructions.
3 – WARNING: To prevent fire or electric shock, do not expose this equipment to rain or moisture. Do not use this apparatus near water.
4 – Clean only with a dry cloth.
5 – WARNING: To prevent excessive temperature rise, operate product only in free air with unrestricted ventilation. Do not install in confined spaces or near heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus that produce heat.
6 – 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 grounding prong. The wide blade or third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit your outlet, consult an electrician for the replacement of the obsolete outlet.
7 – Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
8 – Unplug the apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
9 – The appliance coupler (or attachment plug) is the mains disconnect device and should remain readily accessible when amplifier is in use.
10 – Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as 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.
11 – This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
12 – Changes or modifications made by the user that are not expressly approved by the manufacturer may void your authority to operate the amplifier.
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE THE COVER. NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL.
WARNING: To prevent fire or electric shock, do not expose this equipment to rain or moisture.
¶ New Tools for a New Generation
The Steelaire combines a high output 15-inch speaker and a full 200 watts power plant to provide new levels of richness and clarity for the steel guitar player and all musicians desiring a big, clean sound. The Steelaire is highly adjustable, allowing the musician to dial in a highly personal sound. Please consult this manual to obtain the best results.
Six settings may be remote controlled using an optional Quilter footswitch or clip-on leg switch.
Our goal at Quilter Labs is to use the latest power technology to maximize warmth and dynamics without the weight and drawbacks of classic tube technology.
No shortcuts have been taken in the design and manufacturing. Every component and circuit is selected solely on the basis of superior results. Where advanced design or premium components significantly boost performance, we have made the investment. Costs are kept as low as possible using a well-managed high volume production process.
The result is a serious professional tool with performance that meets or beats handmade amps costing and weighing several times as much.
The Steelaire delivers a sweet smooth tone, with excellent midrange clarity and a vivid high end. In contrast to our more British-type guitar amps, the overall effect is a very American sound -- big and smooth with lots of power.
We hope you enjoy your new amplifier. May it give you many years of flawless service and provide a source of inspiration and creativity.
¶ AMPLIFIER INPUT SECTION AND MODE SET-UP
The Steelaire supports active or passive steel guitar volume pedals. An adjustable gain boost may be preset for one instrument. The amp may also be used with two different instruments, either separately or at the same time. LEDs above each channel indicate the status of the MODE switch. 9V power at the effects loop supports “hard wiring” of delay and chorus pedal effects.
¶ CH 1 INPUT
Set MODE to CH 1. Use GAIN 1 to control volume.
• TIP: CH 1 also flows into CH 2 unless a separate signal is connected to CH 2. Therefore GAIN 2 can be used as an alternate gain preset for CH 1, selected by the MODE switch or the remote footswitch.
• TIP: MODE 1+2 connects both GAIN controls in series, for extra volume.
¶ CH 2 INPUT
Set MODE to CH 2. Use GAIN 2 to control volume.
• TIP: Plugging into CH 2 disconnects the feed from CH 1. This allows the MODE switch to select between two instruments, each with their own gain setting.
• TIP: MODE 1+2 connects both instruments simultaneously.
¶ POPULAR AMPLIFIER SETUPS
¶ STEEL GUITAR, ACTIVE VOLUME PEDAL
Connect between guitar and CH 1, and set MODE to CH 1. Set volume with GAIN 1. (CH 2 remains available for a second instrument).
• TIP: GAIN 1 will normally remain clean up to about “8”. Some overdrive may occur on “10” (see LIMITER section below).
• TIP: GAIN 2 can be preset for a second volume level, and selected either with the MODE switch, or the footswitch.
• TIP: Selecting MODE 1+2 places both GAINS in series, allowing for large amounts of overdrive (see MASTER VOLUME section, P6).
¶ STEEL GUITAR, PASSIVE VOLUME PEDAL
The original method of inserting a passive pedal between guitar and CH 1 is easy, but slightly reduces high frequency response. Active pedals include a buffer to preserve high frequencies, but require a power supply.
¶ USE CH 1 TO BUFFER A PASSIVE PEDAL
Connect the guitar directly to CH1 IN, connect PEDAL SEND to the pedal’s input, and connect the pedal’s output to CH2 IN (Pedal Return). Set MODE to CH 2. Use GAIN 2 to set volume.
• TIP: GAIN 1 is inactive when using CH 2 MODE.
• TIP: To obtain an adjustable volume boost in this configuration, select MODE 1+2, use GAIN 1 to set “normal” volume and set GAIN 2 for the desired “boosted” volume. Control GAIN2 with the footswitch.
¶ USING A SECOND INSTRUMENT
Connect the steel guitar (or other first instrument) to CH1 IN, and set its volume with GAIN 1. Select with the MODE switch as usual.
Connect the second instrument to CH2 IN, and use GAIN 2 to set volume. Select using the MODE switch as desired.
• TIP: The MUTE MODE allows cables to be unplugged without noises.
• TIP: The footswitch BOOST button adds a treble boost to brighten up the alternate instrument if desired. Great for 6-string guitars!
• TIP: MODE 1+2 allows both instruments to be played at once.
¶ TONE CONTROLS: “BASS, BODY, BARK, and BITE”
Four active EQ controls support a wide range of tone adjustments. The amplifier has a naturally bright, clean sound with ”flat” EQ settings on “5”, but you should freely use the controls to get the sound you desire.
Controls the “weight” of the sound (50-150Hz). Many steel guitar players increase the bass somewhat to add fullness and compensate for the treble pickups used in typical pedal steels. The Steelaire has the headroom and speaker capacity to accept a substantial bass boost without “bottoming out”.
Controls the “chesty” register (500Hz). Many classic amps “scooped out” this frequency range to reduce stress and “clutter” while keeping bass and treble frequencies. The Steelaire speaker handles these rich low-mid frequencies with clarity and definition.
Controls the “presence” register (2kHz). Boosting these frequencies may increase “cut-thru” to the point of pain; reductions can temper an undesirably “forward” or clattery tone.
Controls the “sparkle” frequencies (5kHz), adding chime and sizzle, or taking the edge off when reduced.
• TIP: Experiment with the EQ controls while playing a full-range chord, then play moving tones to confirm the effect.
¶ LIMITER AND TREMOLO SECTION
The LIMITER may be set up to prevent overdrive distortion and increase sustain. The TREMOLO has a widely adjustable depth and rate. Both effects are controlled by respective footswitch buttons.
¶ SETTING UP THE LIMITER
The LIMITER acts as a dynamic volume control that intervenes only if the signal level exceeds a certain point. It is calibrated so that 50% will prevent overdrive in most cases. To establish this level and hear the effect, first turn the MASTER down to a very low level for safe testing. Then, increase the input GAIN until you hear distortion on loud peaks. Then increase the LIMITER and note how it reduces only the loud peaks to prevent distortion.
• TIP: Setting LIMITER at “2”or “3” will allow some overdrive , for those who want a little bit of grit or a “rolling boil” for lead passages.
• TIP: Setting the LIMITER higher than “5” will cause it to intervene sooner, allowing sustain to occur well below the point of overload.
• TIP: Once you have experimentally determined the “sweet spot” combination of GAIN and LIMITER, then use the MASTER to set your overall volume as desired. If you want maximum clean headroom, and only want the LIMITER to prevent unintentional distortion, leave it on “5” and set the MASTER at “10”. You will rarely if ever play loud enough to trigger limiting, but it will be there if needed.
¶ REVERB and MASTER SECTIONS
The REVERB control sets the depth or amount of reverb. The DWELL regulates how long the decay lasts, from a short “donk” to a lengthy “heavenly choir”. The TONE ranges from dark and mellow on the left to bright and splashy on the right. The reverb section is controlled by its own footswitch button.
¶ MASTER VOLUME AND OVERDRIVE SET-UP
Although the Steelaire is designed for musicians needing maximum clean headroom, the amp can “rock out” when called for. Like any classic amp, high GAIN settings, especially when selecting MODE 1+2, will produce increasing amounts of overdrive distortion, with the same natural tube-like dynamics as other Quilter amps. Reducing the MASTER volume allows these tones to be used at reasonable loudness levels.
• TIP: For maximum clean headroom, use full MASTER and moderate GAIN settings.
• TIP: For more overdrive, use lower MASTER and higher GAIN settings. If desired, temper the overdrive using the LIMITER as described above.
• TIP: when exploring the dynamics of the amp, use low MASTER settings. Once a “sweet spot” is established, use the MASTER to set overall loudness.
¶ REAR PANEL – AC POWER, SPEAKERS
¶ International Power Supply
The Steelaire can be used on all known worldwide AC voltages (100-250V), which allows you to play just about anywhere on the planet.
¶ Locking IEC Power Cord
The power cord that comes with your amplifier is designed to lock into the AC inlet to reduce the chance it will come unplugged during use. Press the yellow button on the cord to release it. Any normal 3-prong IEC cord may also be used with the amplifier. Always ensure that the ground contact is intact on both the cord and receptacle.
¶ Speaker Outputs
The Steelaire comes with the internal speaker plugged into the INT SPEAKER output. An external 4-8 ohm speaker may be used in place of the internal speaker by unplugging this cable and connecting the external speaker.
To use two speaker cabinets simultaneously, connect a 4-8 ohm extension speaker with a minimum of 200 watts continuous power handling to the EXT SPEAKER output and a 4-8 ohm cabinet (or the internal speaker) to the INT SPEAKER output. Circuitry adjusts the output impedance to split the power between the two outputs.
CAUTION: the amplifier can deliver up to 300 watts peak, well beyond the capacity of most single speakers. We recommend Quilter extension cabinets with power tested speakers. Quilter Labs will not be liable for damage to other speakers.
¶ EFFECTS LOOP, FOOTSWITCH, DIRECT OUTPUT
The SEND jack outputs at 1V full scale which aligns with consumer and pro effects. The RETURN jack interrupts the internal signal, and returns the effects output directly to the power amplifier. The 9VDC OUT jack will power one or two typical pedals, which may be left connected and secured inside the amplifier. The combined current ratings must not exceed 200ma. The FX LOOP switch on the remote controller will bypass or enable the pedal(s).
• TIP: The Effects Loop is best suited for “enhancement” devices such as delay, reverb, and chorus. “Overdrive” pedals should be used between the guitar and amplifier.
• TIP: The footswitch “FX LOOP” position bypasses the OUTPUT of the effect chain, but signals still flow INTO the effect chain, possibly building up reverb or echo trains which will be heard when the loop is activated.
¶ Footswitch Jack
The remote controller (or footswitch) connects with the supplied cable. Both jacks on the foot controller are wired identically, so you can plug into either one. A standard network cable with RJ-45 connectors may be used as an emergency replacement or if you need a longer cable.
¶ Direct Output
The isolated direct output connects the overall sound of the amp to a mixing board or external powered loudspeakers without using a microphone. The signal level is isolated and comparable with an amplifier mic, and is derived from the actual signal across the speaker, to preserve as much of the tone quality as possible. Internal equalization produces the same tone quality through a full-range console as the internal single-cone driver.
¶ STEELAIRE RACK MOUNT CABINET SYSTEM
¶ Removing the Rack Mount Head
Unplug the cords and clear them from the access slots behind the amp, taking care not to drop them on the speaker. Remove the knurled thumbscrew and slide the amp out the back. Replace the thumbscrew for safe keeping. The amp may be rack mounted or set on its rubber feet.
¶ Caring For Your Amplifier
Clean the outer surfaces with a clean, damp cloth or vacuum with a soft brush. Never use any abrasives, harsh cleaners or solvents.
The Steelaire amplifier is manufactured with high quality components using modern industrial processes that greatly reduce production defects. Each amplifier goes through an intensive testing process before it leaves the factory ensuring that your amplifiers will give you years of flawless service. There are no user-serviceable parts inside the amplifier. Any repairs should be performed by a trained service professional.
Always use the amplifier in a well-ventilated environment and protect from external heat sources such as furnaces or direct sunlight.
Prolonged high-volume playing causes heat buildup in the speaker which reduces its working lifetime. If you find it necessary to consistently use the amp at full volume, we recommend using an extension speaker to prolong speaker life and improve sound coverage.
¶ SPECIFICATIONS:
| Amplifier Module Specifications | |
| Power Output: | 200 watts, 4-8 ohms |
| AC Power Req.: | 100–240Vac, 50–60 Hz, 250 W |
| Input Connections: | INST-1/2: ¼" mono |
| Effects Loop: | Output: ¼" mono, 1V FS (-10dB), 1K ohms Input: ¼" mono, 50K ohms |
| Speaker 1 Output: | 4 ohms, 200 W minimum rating |
| Speaker 2 Output: | 4-8 ohms, 200 W minimum rating |
| Rack Mount Dims: | 2RU, 7.75” (19.7cm) deep, 7.2 lbs (3.3Kg) |
| Cabinet and Speaker | |
| Speaker: | Custom voiced 15” Eminence, neo magnet, 3” voice coil, 300W rating, in open-back cabinet |
| H x W x D: | Combo cabinet: 21 x 23 x 9 in (53.4 x 58.4 x 22.9 cm) Rack Mount cabinet: 23 x 21 x 10.5 in (48.4 x 53.4 x 26.7cm) Handle and feet add 0.75 in (2cm) top and bottom. |
| Weight: | 35 lbs. (16 Kg) |
¶ TROUBLESHOOTING
| Symptom | Action | |
| No power, no lights | • Ensure that the AC cord is fully seated and connected to a live source. • Check the AC source by trying another device. |
|
| Amp shuts off then after a short time, turns back on | • If amp feels very hot, thermal protection is activating. Reduce Master at least 30% and keep the amplifier out of direct sunlight or enclosed spaces. Amp normally runs only slightly warm. • Continued intermittent behavior indicates need for servicing. |
|
| No audio (using a guitar) | • Check the MODE switch: confirm that the yellow LED over the intended channel is illuminated. • Confirm that the MASTER control and the correct GAIN 1 or 2 controls are turned up. • Ensure the guitar plug is inserted fully at each end. • Try using a different guitar cable. • Check that the pickup selector switch and volume on the guitar are set correctly. • Remove any cables from the RETURN jack of the Effects Loop. If this corrects the problem, check the effects-chain for a faulty connection. • Check the tremolo effect, and increase the RATE for a more rapid pulsation. • Check that the TREM control is set to its minimum position if this sound is undesired. Ensure that the rear panel speaker plug is fully inserted into the INT SPEAKER jack. |
|
| MODE switch operates backwards | • Confirm the footswitch setting. The footswitch can reverse the MODE setting. | |
| Limiter, Tremolo, or Reverb don’t work | • Confirm the footswitch setting. • All effects are active with footswitch unplugged. |
|
| Reverb tone is too dark or bright | • Adjust the reverb TONE control. | |
| Reverb sound has too much “echo” | • Adjust the DWELL control | |
| The signal level is slowly surging. | • Check the tremolo effect, and increase the RATE for a more rapid pulsation. • Check that the TREM control is set to its minimum position if this sound is undesired. |
|
| Background hum | • Ensure the guitar plug is fully inserted. • Try using a different guitar cable. Make sure it is properly shielded. • Any AC powered sources or effects should be plugged into the same receptacle or AC strip as the amplifier to help avoid ground loops. If the hum goes away when you turn down the guitar: • Single coil pickups can pick up hum, especially from light dimmers or neon lights. Some guitars have “phase switching” pickup selectors that can sometimes help. • Check that the guitar’s cavities are well shielded. • A thin “buzz” especially at partial guitar volume may indicate that the AC cord’s ground pin has been defeated. This is dangerous and leads to noise. |
|
| Excessive noise | • At high gain settings, some audible hiss or whoosh is normal. • Check your cables, guitar and other effects in the signal chain, especially for hum or buzz. • “Chattering” and other recurring noises are usually caused by cellphones close to the guitar or amp. |
|
| Amp sounds garbled at all volumes | • Check speaker by temporarily trying an external speaker. Caution: reduce MASTER volume until sound level has been confirmed. | |
| Desire clean tone, getting too much overdrive distortion | • Turn down the GAIN control and turn up MASTER. • Confirm that MODE is not on 1+2. • Turn up LIMITER. |
|
| Desire overdrive tone, not getting enough overdrive | • Turn down MASTER until the desired overdrive is obtained, then reset to desired loudness. • Turn up GAIN, and/or use MODE 1+2, until overdrive is obtained. • Set LIMITER on zero (or bypass with footswitch). • Turn up guitar volume. • Try higher output pickups. |
|
| Amplifier Requires Service | If any of the events below occur, immediately unplug the amplifier and refer to a service technician. • Amplifier or AC cord emits smoke • Amplifier is dropped or chassis is dented or bent • Liquid has been spilled into the amplifier • Loose parts inside the amplifier are heard • AC breaker trips |
¶ WARRANTY & SERVICE:
For warranty and service information, visit our support website at support.quilterlabs.com
¶ FCC NOTICE:
Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver
• Connect the product into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.