Bass Amplifier Controls
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Input Level Controls the level of the signal from the bass to be optimized for the the rest of the amplifier. Generally, it is best to run the input up as much as possible before causing distortion. Amps operate best when given a strong signal. For basses with extremely high output electronics like active basses, this control can be used to reduce the input as well. Some bass amps have inputs specifically intended for active or passive instruments.
Equalization Equalization refers to boosting or cutting frequencies to give the balance from bass to treble desired by the player. There are different methods of equalization (EQ). Some amps employ more than one.
Graphic Graphic EQs are made up of sliders that control various frequencies (bands). In the center position, the slider neither boosts or cuts that frequency (flat).
Parametric Parametric EQ allows the user to select a frequency (note) and boost or cut just that frequency. Additionally, there is a often a control for bandwidth which determines how far into surounding frequencies the boost/cut control effects. Parametric EQs are usefull for pinpointing problem frequencies and making surgical adjustments without effects others.
Shelving Shelving type EQ is typically incorporated in standard bass, mid and treble contols. The term shelving refers to the predetermined frequencies each control acts on. Everything below the bass shelf is controlled by the bass control. Above that but below the treble shelf is controlled by the midrange knob. Above the treble frequency shelf, the treble control takes over.
Volume Volume controls the overall loudness (dB) of the amp. It is important that the input level be set so as not to overdrive this section of the amp. When in doubt, err on the high side and reduce the input level. This way, the sound will not be distorted.
Input Plug the bass into the appropriate (active / passive) input.
Phone This is a standard 1/4 inch connection. There is some signal loss when using long cables. This type of connection is the most common..
Balanced XLR XLR connectors use three conductors instead of the usual two. Sound guys often use a device called a direct box to convert the bass signal from high impedence to low impedence. This type of connection is often used in big stage situations where extremely long cable lengths are necessary. There is little signal loss with balanced connections.
Effects Effects either controls outside effects plugged into a special circuit (called an effects loop) or it controls effects built into the amplifier.The effects control is a level control effecting the level of all the effects in the chain.