BX250 and MB series MicroBass Amplifiers USER MANUAL

MB10 MB15 MB12

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RECEIVING INSPECTION—read before getting started

INSPECT YOUR UNIT FOR DAMAGE which may have occurred during shipping. If damage
is found, please notify the shipping company and CARVIN immediately.
MB210 BX250 HEAD SAVE THE CARTON & ALL PACKING MATERIALS. In the event you have to re-ship your
unit, always use the original carton and packing material. This will provide the best possible
The BX250/MB Series MicroBass Amplifiers offer classic natural bass tone protection during shipment. CARVIN and the shipping company are not liable for any damage
with unprecedented tonal control and extended headroom. The BX250 Head caused by improper packing.
and Combo amps deliver 200w at 8 ohms and 250w at 4ohms. SAVE YOUR INVOICE. It will be required for warranty service if needed in the future.
Four discrete Class A input stages produce the harmonic basis for the preamp SHIPMENT SHORTAGE. If you find items missing, they may have been shipped separately.
right from the input jack. It begins with a boutique flat response, then we add Please allow several days for the rest of your order to arrive before inquiring.
extensive tone control allowing you to carve out your signature sound. Harmonic RECORD THE SERIAL NUMBER on the enclosed warranty card for your records. Keep your
content increases as you turn up the DRIVE control producing rich harmonics portion of the card and return the portion with your name and comments to us.
at maximum settings. The CLASS-D output and lightweight switch-mode power
USA customers register online at: www.carvinaudio.com/pages/registration
supply use far less energy from the wall and produces less heat.
Light weight, solid design, bullet-proof construction and a list of indispensable
features make sure the BX/MB amps will be your choice for years to come. SPECIFICATIONS:
• Discrete CLASS A input stages OUTPUT POWER (all models)
• Preamp DRIVE and MASTER volume controls 8ohms, THD <1.0% 2 00w
• 2 mid sweep semi-parametric EQ, BASS and TREBLE 4ohms, THD <1.0% 250w
• CONTOUR pre-shape control Combo Speaker Configuration: MB10: 2-way; 10” LF / 1” NEO HF
• Single knob COMPRESSOR (all models 8 ohms) MB15: 2-way; 15” LF / 1” NEO HF
• DIRECT OUT balanced XLR with LEVEL, PRE/POST and GROUND/LIFT MB12: 3-way; 12” LF / 6.5” NEO MID / 1” NEO HF
• MUTE switch allows silent tuning or headphone practice MB210: 2-way; 2x10” LF / 1” NEO HF
• TUNER/PHONES output jack independent of MUTE switch Input Impedance: >200K
• TWEETER DIM switch allows control of speaker brightness (combo) Drive Control: Varies input gain and harmonic content
• CLASS-D amplifier runs cool while consuming less power Tone Controls: CONTOUR pre-shape
• Solid metal shaft controls with panel mounted threaded metal bushings BASS 50Hz
• Circuit boards are MIL SPEC, double sided, FR-4 glass epoxy 2 semi-parametric MIDs: 50Hz-500Hz / 200Hz-2kHz
• Energy efficient worldwide power supply accepts 90-250VAC, 50-60Hz
• Compact and light weight. TREBLE 10kHz
AC Requirements: 90 to 250VAC 50/60 Hz
GETTING STARTED Power Requirements: 200VA
1. With POWER off, connect an instrument to the INPUT jack. If you have the Dimensions BX250 (HEAD): 3.7”H x 10”W x 7.25”D (93 x 254 x184mm)
BX250 head, also connect a speaker to a speaker out jack. (4 ohms or higher)
MB10: 18.5”H x 12.75”W x 11.5”D (470 x 324 x 280mm)
2. Set the DRIVE and MASTER volume to “0” and set the ACTIVE INPUT switch
for your type of bass. MB12: 18.5”H x 17”W x 12”D (470 x 432 x 305mm)
3. Set the four tone controls to their center “0” position and the CONTOUR to MB15: 18.5”H x 17”W x 12”D (470 x 432 x 305mm)
FLAT. This is the “FLAT” setting for the amp. MB210: 24.5”H x 12.75”W x 11.5”D (622 x 324 x 292mm)
4. Now, turn the amp ON. Turn up the volume on your bass guitar. Gradually
Weight : BX250 (HEAD): 3.2 lbs. (1.5 kgs)
increase the MASTER control to the desired level. If no sound is heard turn
down the MASTER, check the MUTE switch, speaker connections, and the MB10: 26.1 lbs. (11.85 kgs)
POWER(blue)/PROTECT(red) LED. MB12: 30.5 lbs. (13.85 kgs)
5. Increasing the DRIVE control will add harmonic richness to your sound. MB15: 32.6 lbs. (14.8 kgs)
Turning up the DRIVE also increases volume. Re-adjust the MASTER volume
MB210: 36 lbs. (16.33 kgs)
after adjusting the DRIVE.
6. Adjust the tone controls to your liking. Keep in mind that turning up a tone Warranty: One year parts and labor
control isn’t always the answer. Sometimes turning down one of the MID Optional Accessories: Extension speaker cabs: 115MBE 1x15”, 210MBE 2x10”
controls will get you the sound you want. Vinyl covers: CVMB10, CVMB12, CVMB15, CVMB210
7. Need more volume? There is a limit to the amount of volume a speaker can
produce and driving a speaker beyond it’s limit can damage it. Even though
these are powerful amplifiers, adding another speaker is the only way for
substantially more output. Doubling your speakers increases your acoustic
output by a factor of four.
Have fun exploring the features and sounds of your BX/MB amp. Take the
time with your new amp to realize it’s full potential. 16262 WEST BERNARDO DR. SAN DIEGO, CA 92127
800-854-2235 CARVINAUDIO.COM
BX250/MB COMBO CONTROLS
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­1. INPUT JACK

The 1/4” phone jack is a high impedance instrument input designed to 5. DI LEVEL (DIRECT OUT, PHONES)
handle both active and passive basses in connection with the ACTIVE The DI LEVEL controls the output level of the XLR DIRECT OUT and the
switch. 1/4” PHONES/TUNER jack. The DI level is not affected by the MASTER
level. Use PRE/POST switch to select if the DRIVE, COMPRESSOR and
2. JEWEL LIGHT TONE controls affect this signal.
BLUE = POWER ON/SYSTEM NORMAL
RED = STARTUP/MUTE/COMP/PROTECT 6. DRIVE CONTROL
The POWER switch turns on the amplifier, and when the jewel light turns The DRIVE control adjusts the input level to the CLASS A preamps. The
BLUE the amp is ready for use. DRIVE control serves two purposes. The DRIVE can be used to adjust the
The jewel light turns RED under different conditions. RED first appears at input sensitivity for the differences in bass pickups. The DRIVE will also
POWER ON for a few seconds while the amp starts up and is checked by change the harmonic content of your sound. Turning the knob closer to
protection circuits. A solid RED will indicate the MUTE switch is engaged. 10 will create a more overdriven tone. The DRIVE will also change the
RED will FLASH as the COMPRESSOR is working. A solid RED (not volume of the amplifier, use it in combination with the MASTER control
MUTE switched) can also indicate a PROTECT mode, most likely if the to achieve the desired volume.
SPEAKER OUTPUT is shorted or if it is loaded below it’s minimum rating.
If the power indicator turns OFF, or solid RED (not muted) while playing, 7. CONTOUR CONTROL
reset the amp by turning the POWER switch OFF for about 10 seconds. The CONTOUR control provides a variable mid-range scoop. When this
Check any external speaker connections. Turn the POWER switch back ON. control is set to “FLAT” there is no change to the mid-range frequencies.
As you turn the contour control clockwise, the mid range is scooped at
3. MUTE SWITCH the center frequency at 350Hz. When the CONTOUR control is set to
The MUTE switch turns off the signal to the amplifier and the DIRECT maximum the mid-range is cut by -15dB at 500Hz.
OUT. The JEWEL LIGHT changes to RED to indicate the MUTE switch is
on. The MUTE switch is ideal for changing basses, silent tuning on-stage, 8. BASS AND TREBLE TONE CONTROLS The BASS and TREBLE
or headphone-only practice. The TUNER/PHONES output is never muted. controls are custom shaped tone controls designed to deliver punchy lows
(BX250 head: MUTE=in) and crisp highs for a variety of bass sounds. When a control is turned to
the right it boosts the signal and when turned to the left cuts the signal.
4. ACTIVE SWITCH The affected frequencies for the BASS start at 80Hz and can deliver a great
Flip the ACTIVE switch to the DOWN position for standard bass pickups. deal of volume. Be careful not to distort the output or overpower your
If your bass uses a battery with an onboard active preamp, put the switch speakers. The affected frequency for the TREBLE control begins at 5kHz
in the UP position. (BX250 head: ACTIVE=in)
 12 15 17 BX250 HEAD REAR PANEL 19 18
9. SEMI-PARAMETRIC MIS SWEEP TONE CONTROLS
(LO MID, HI MID & FREQ)
Start with the LO MID sweep. The FREQ control does not function if the
GAIN control is set in the center “0” position. To demonstrate, turn the
GAIN to the right for full boost. Now play your bass and turn the FREQ
control from left to right and notice the how the added mids change
frequency. Now turn the GAIN to the full left and turn the FREQ control
again and notice the mids disappear at different frequencies. Try this with
the HI MID also. The mid sweep system controls can be very effective to
fine tune your overall sound.
15. PHONES/TUNER JACK (UNMUTED)
10. COMPRESSOR The PHONES/TUNER jack is a stereo 1/4” jack, designed for connecting
The compressor reduces the volume of the incoming signal as it a tuner or headphones. Volume is adjusted by the DI LEVEL control. This
reaches a preset maximum level. As the COMPRESSOR knob is turned output is unaffected by the MUTE function so you may tune or play your
up (clockwise), the compressor reduces a percentage of peak signal. bass quietly while using the MUTE.
This percentage is called the “compression ratio”. When the knob is at To listen to headphones without hearing the other speakers, turn down the
the OFF position (full counter-clockwise) the ratio is 1:1, where all of the MASTER or turn on the MUTE switch and adjust the headphone volume
input signal passes through the compressor without being affected. At with the DI LEVEL control. The PRE/POST switch affects this output.
the MAX setting, the compression ratio is 3:1.
The advantage of a compressor is to the reduce peaks and other sudden 16. TWEETER DIM SWITCH (MB COMBOS)
loud parts (transients) of your playing so you can increase your overall The TWEETER DIM switch allows the internal tweeter to be attenuated,
volume. For example, in slap bass playing the plucked notes can put out allowing control of the brightness of the built-in speaker. This will not
peaks that would distort the amplifier at normal playing volumes. If the affect any speakers plugged into the EXT SPEAKER jack.
amp’s volume was adjusted for these peaks, the rest of the notes would
be too quiet to hear with the band. When the compressor is adjusted to 17. SPEAKER OUTPUTS
where the JEWEL LIGHT flashes RED for loud peaks, the amplifier can be The MB10, MB12 and MB15 have one 1/4” extension speaker output con-
played louder without distortion. It’s like having someone re-adjusting the nector which is connected in parallel with the internal 8 ohm speakers. You
volume of the amplifier to help prevent distortion when the peaks occur. may connect another speaker with an impedance more than 8 ohms. The
BX250 head has two speaker 1/4” speaker outputs. The total impedance
11. MASTER VOLUME must not go below 4 ohms. If you go below the minimum speaker load, the
Use the MASTER to control the overall volume of the amplifier. Reduce the amp may shut off or the JEWEL LIGHT may turn RED. To reset the amp,
MASTER if your sound becomes overly distorted. Using the COMPRESSOR turn off the POWER switch and connect the recommended load.
will also help prevent distortion or overloading of your speakers. SPEAKER COMBINATIONS/OHMS:
One 16 ohm speaker + one 8 ohm (MB spkr.) = 5.33 ohms (OK)
12. DIRECT OUTPUT XLR JACK (MUTED) One 8 ohm speaker + one 8 ohm (MB spkr.) = 4 ohms (OK)
The DIRECT OUT XLR jack provides a balanced independent output straight One 4 ohm speaker + one 8 ohm (MB spkr.) = 2.66 ohms (NO)
from the input jack (PRE) for going direct to the main PA or recording Two 8 ohm speakers = 4 ohms (OK for BX250 head)
input. The output level is adjusted from the front panel DI LEVEL control.
This output is controlled by the MUTE function so you may tune your bass 18. POWER SWITCH
quietly while using the MUTE. The DIRECT OUT signal is not affected by The POWER switch turns the amp ON or OFF. The JEWEL LIGHT will
the MASTER level. The DRIVE, TONE and COMPRESSOR controls do light RED for approximately 2-4 seconds after the the POWER switch is
not affect the DIRECT OUT with the switch in PRE. The XLR is protected turned on, then change to BLUE. If it stays RED, check the amp.
against Phantom power (DC voltage) on cables coming from phantom
powered mixer inputs. 19. AC POWER JACK & FUSE
The AC POWER JACK will accept 90VAC to 250VAC, 60Hz or 50Hz. A
13. DIRECT OUTPUT GROUND LIFT SWITCH detachable power cord is supplied (for European 230V use a CEE-7 plug
If a hum occurs when connecting the XLR to a mixer, try using the cord set). Plug the cord into a grounded 3 prong power source. No attempt
GND LIFT switch. The GND LIFT switch lifts the ground pin 1 of the XLR should ever be made to use the amp without the ground connected.
to 100 ohms above the chassis ground. (BX250 head: GND=out, LIFT=in) The FUSE is located internally near the AC input. To check or replace,
first remove the power cord and then the enclosure lid. The fuse type is
14. PRE/POST SWITCH a 250V Slow Blow rated at 5A.
The PRE/POST switch affects the DIRECT OUT and PHONES/TUNER
signal. When set to “POST” , the DIRECT OUT and PHONES/TUNER signals
are affected by the DRIVE, COMPRESSOR, and TONE controls. When the
switch is set to “PRE” these controls are bypassed. The DI LEVEL adjusts
the level in both positions. (BX250 head: PRE=out, POST=in)
 BX MICROBASS COMBO SPEAKER CONFIGUATIONS:

MB10: 2-WAY ENCLOSURE MB15: 2-WAY ENCLOSURE MB12: 3-WAY ENCLOSURE MB210: 2-WAY ENCLOSURE
10” WOOFER 15” WOOFER 12” HORN LOADED WOOFER TWO” 10” WOOFERs
1” NEO TITANIUM TWEETER 1” NEO TITANIUM TWEETER 6.5” NEO MID DRIVER 1” NEO TITANIUM TWEETER
12.75”W x 11.5”D x 18.5”H 17”W x 12”D x 18.5”H 1” NEO TITANIUM TWEETER 12.75””W x 11.5”D x 24.5”H
(470mm x 324mm x 280mm) (470mm x 432mm x 305mm) 17”W x 12”D x 18.5”H (324mm x 292mm x 622mm)
(470mm x 432mm x 305mm)
Helpful Hints
1) NO SOUND:
The MUTE function has been inadvertently engaged.
Speakers have been improperly connected.
2) NO HIGH FREQUENCIES: (MB10, MB12, MB15, MB210 and external cabinets)
The TWEETER DIM switch or HIGH FREQUENCY ATTENUATION control is set low or OFF.
The HF driver is damaged from too much power or distortion.
3) AMP SEEMS VERY SENSITIVE TO INPUT SIGNALS:
The drive control is turned all the way up.
The active switch may need to be turned on.
4) DIR XLR HUM:
Try switching the rear GND LIFT switch IN or OUT.
Check for noise from external effects or bad cabling.
5) POOR BASS FROM MULTIPLE ENCLOSURES:
Make sure the external speaker is in phase with the internal speaker. Check the wiring of each cabinet is correct for phase, reverse ( +/- ) on the external cabinet if needed.
6) FOR MAXIMUM OUTPUT:
To get more output, use multiple speakers or enclosures. Every time you double your speakers, your acoustic output goes up by a factor of four.
Load the amplifier down to its lowest minimum impedance for maximum RMS power. If you go below the minimum load, your amp will shut off and go into the “protect” mode. To
reset, turn your amp off and connect the recommended load.

The BX Microbass is a small, yet powerful amplifier. As with any amplifier, make sure your speakers are suitable for the available wattage. Driving speakers with too much wattage
will cause them to distort and eventually fail. If distorted sound is coming from the speakers, reduce the volume until the distortion stops.

This symbol is intended to This symbol is

LIMITED WARRANTY
alert the user to the pres- CAUTION intended to alert the
Your Carvin product is guaranteed against failure for 1 YEAR unless otherwise stated.
ence RISK OF ELECTRIC
of uninsulated “dan- SHOCK user to the presence
gerous voltage” DO within NOT
the RISK OF RISK
ELECTRICOF ELECTRIC
SHOCK SHOCK
of important operating Carvin will service and supply all parts at no charge to the customer providing the
OPEN DO NOT OPENDO NOT
product’s enclosure that and OPEN
maintenance (ser- unit is under warranty. Shipping costs are the responsibility of the customer. CARVIN
may be of sufficient magnitude to con- vicing) instructions in the literature
stitute a risk of electric shock to persons. accompanying the appliance.
DOES NOT PAY FOR PARTS OR SERVICING OTHER THAN OUR OWN. A COPY OF THE
ORIGINAL INVOICE IS REQUIRED TO VERIFY YOUR WARRANTY. Carvin assumes no
responsibility for horn drivers or speakers damaged by this unit. This warranty does
IMPORTANT! FOR YOUR PROTECTION, PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING: not cover, and no liability is assumed, for damage due to: natural disasters, acci-
WATER AND MOISTURE: Appliance should not be used near water (near a bathtub, washbowl, dents, abuse, loss of parts, lack of reasonable care, incorrect use, or failure to follow
kitchen sink, laundry tub, in a wet basement, or near a swimming pool, etc). Care should be taken
so that objects do not fall and liquids are not spilled into the enclosure through openings. instructions. This warranty is in lieu of all other warranties, expressed or implied. No
POWER SOURCES: The product should be connected to a power supply only of the type representative or person is authorized to represent or assume for Carvin any liability
described in the operating instructions or as marked on the appliance. in connection with the sale or servicing of Carvin products. CARVIN SHALL NOT BE
GROUNDING OR POLARIZATION: Precautions should be taken so that the grounding or LIABLE FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES.
polarization is not defeated.
POWER CORD PROTECTION: Power supply cords should be routed so that they are not likely MAINTAINING YOUR EQUIPMENT
to be walked on or pinched by items placed upon or against them, paying particular attention to Avoid spilling liquids or allowing any other foreign matter inside the unit. The panel of
cords at plugs, The appliance inlet is the disconnect device. Keep it readily accesable. your unit can be wiped with a dry or slightly damp cloth in order to remove dust and bring
SERVICING: The user should not attempt to service the appliance beyond that described in the back the new look. As with all pro gear, avoid prolonged use in caustic environments (salt
operating instructions. All other servicing should be referred to qualified service personnel.
air). When used in such an environment, be sure the amplifier is adequately protected.
FUSING: If your unit is equipped with a fuse receptacle, replace only with the same type fuse.
Refer to replacement text on the unit for correct fuse type. SERVICE
In the USA go to www.carvinaudio.com.
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS (EUROPEAN) Outside the USA, contact your dealer or go to www.carvinaudio.com and click on
The conductors in the AC power cord are colored in accordance with the following code. “Dealers” for your nearest service center. Include a written description of the problem
with serial number and date of purchase.
GREEN & YELLOW—Earth BLUE—Neutral BROWN—Live
U.K. MAIN PLUG WARNING: A molded main plug that has been cut off from the cord is
unsafe. NEVER UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD YOU INSERT A DAMAGED
OR CUT MAIN PLUG INTO A POWER SOCKET.

REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE

CAUTION PERSONNEL! THIS UNIT CONTAINS HIGH
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK VOLTAGE INSIDE!
76-45301F 122716