Acoustic Image Amplifiers and Repairs

What Are The S4plus Models?

The S4plus models all use the Clarus head (which is a preamp combined with a power amp) with varying speaker cabinets.

The differences between the S4plus and Series 4 preamps are noted.

• Two identical channels that can be mixed to one mono output, or output as separate (stereo) channels. Per channel features:
• Separately buffered XLR and 1/4 inch inputs — replaces combo jack in Series 4
• Full 48V phantom power (switchable) for XLR inputs
• Switchable 10 dB gain boost for low output mics
• -6 dB front end gain option (user selectable with circuit board jumper) — new feature
• Input level and master level controls
• 4 band tone control section (low, low mid, hi mid, high) — replaces 3 band controls in Series 4
• Switchable phase reverse
• Can be converted to speaker emulation filter (user selectable with circuit board jumper) — new feature
• Selectable and sweepable low cut filter (150 Hz and below) — more precise filter than in Series 4
• Effects loop with send and return
• Return can be used an aux input
• Send can be used as a tuner output
• Selectable effects with wet/dry mix control and variable rate control — new programs, variable rate control is a new feature
• Reverb with variable decay time (room to hall)
• Delay with variable delay time
• Delay/Reverb with variable delay time
• All selector switches are illuminated when on to give instant configuration information — new feature
• Direct out with pre/post EQ selection, switchable 10 dB pad and selectable ground lift — 10 dB pad is a new feature
• Mono or stereo 1/4 inch output (user selectable with circuit board jumper) — new feature
• Headphone output (1/8 inch) — the 1/8 inch jack replaces a 1/4 inch jack in Series 4
• Switchable limiter
• Simulated stereo effects — pseudo stereo (one input---simulated stereo output) — new feature
• Requires a second powered cabinet
• Exceptional high fidelity performance
• 20 Hz to 20 kHz +/- 0.5 dB frequency response
• Signal to noise ratio greater than 110 dB at direct out — 15 dB better than Series 4
• Low output distortion, high input clipping level due to use of split power supply — 10 dB more headroom than Series 4
• Compatible with all instruments

As you can see, many new features are introduced in S4plus and the performance is markedly improved.

The Amplifiers

The Clarus (400 Watts into 4 Ohms) and Focus (800 Watts into 4 Ohms) models combine a one channel preamp or two channel preamp with digital effects, and a switch mode power amplifier in a compact book-sized package that weighs about 2 kilograms (4 pounds). It provides transparent, powerful, and accurate sound reproduction across the full frequency spectrum for acoustic and electric instruments.

Acoustic Image Series III Focus 2R and Clarus 1 amps

Each channel of the preamp section has a combo mic/line input connector, 3-band equalization, a parallel effects loop with return level control, and a selectable notch or low cut filter which is very effective for feedback or "boominess" elimination. There's also a master balanced direct out with ground lift to allow connection to a mixing board for PA augmentation or recording.

The switch mode power amp section drives loads as low as 2 Ohms, and has a switch for dual voltage operation (115/230V, 50/60 Hz) and a detachable power cord.

Unlike other solid state amps, the Clarus and Focus have a distinct, warm sound, more like a tube amp, and they are not "voiced" like many electronic instrument amps -- the frequency response is almost "ruler flat". The EQ is sufficient to overcome room acoustics or to shape your sound without adding noise to the signal, and the optional reverb adds fullness and presence. The amps were not designed to be driven hard to create distortion in the amp, but effects pedals can be used at the input or in the effects loop, and the fidelity of the amp lets the effect shine through.

Acoustic Image Series III Coda R combo

The Combos

The Contra (1 channel) and Coda R (2 channel with effects) are compact and powerful combo amplifiers for acoustic and electric instruments. Combining a 3-way speaker system with the Clarus amplifier in a compact 8 kilogram (20 pound) package, many noted players believe they achieve the world's best acoustic sound for bass, guitar, and keyboards.

In this context, "acoustic" means a comfortable volume level where the combo is effectively invisible, providing amplification without coloration.

The combos have a flat frequency response coupled with an extended, tight, well-controlled bass sound and clarity of reproduction. Omnidirectional output of frequencies below 800 Hz allows instruments amplified by the combos to be easily heard by other musicians across the bandstand.

The Series III combos have are the result of extensive redesign into a lighter and more compact format, The electronics, speakers, and sound are the same are previous models.

Using the lifter to tilt the cabinet

In order to have a compact enclosure while maintaining accurate reproduction across a broad spectrum of frequencies, a compromise was made in the absolute volume at which the combos and EX cabinet can play at the lowest frequencies. Generally, if the EQ is flat, and aggressive low notes on an electric bass guitar are played, the cabinets can handle the low frequencies up to the point where the preamp "Level" control and the "Master" control are at their 12-o'clock positions (about half way up).

We've found that we set both controls to their 10-o'clock positions for most restaurants and small clubs, leaving plenty of headroom. This is with the combo providing amplification for both guitar and bass simultaneously, and sometimes a microphone. A truly portable PA!

For some venues, a Contra EX extension cabinet can be added for more coverage, but in a higher volume situation you'll want a larger extension cabinet or augmentation by a house PA system. To peel the paint off the walls, we like to use the Acoustic Image amps with AccuGroove cabinets. The fidelity of this combination is amazing. The amps also work very well with the popular speaker cabinets (twin 15 bass cabinets, quad 10s, and so on) that some venues have on hand as "house cabinets".

A built-in lifter mechanism under the front of the combos and EX cabinet allows them to be tilted to better direct sound to the player's listening position. An optional padded gig bag with shoulder strap makes the combos convenient for the travelling musician.

Testimonials

Configurations and Prices

Order now! Contact us at ghservices.com@gmail.com or call our toll-free order line 1-866-666-7858.

The available configurations include the amplifier alone or in combination with a cabinet, in single channel or dual channel, both with effects. The following table shows the possibilities, with prices in Canadian dollars. We also sell directly to American locations - contact us for prices.

Free shipping throughout Canada and the U.S. for amps, combos, and cabinets!

Amps
Model	Description	Type	Output	Chan.	FX	US$ List*	Your Price*
606 IA	Clarus SL S4plus 1ch 600W integrated amp	amp only	600w/4ohm	1	no	US$ 629	Not available
607 IA	Clarus SL-R S4plus 1ch 600W integrated amp with effects	amp only	600w/4ohm	1	yes	US$ 749	Not available
608 IA	Clarus SL-2 S4plus 2ch 600W integrated amp	amp only	600w/4ohm	2	no	US$ 789	Not available
601 IA	Clarus 2 S4plus 10"x8"x3.5", 3 lbs.	amp only	600w/4ohm	2	yes	US$ 1029	Not available
* Prices subject to change due to currency exchange rate fluctuations, import fees, and other factors.
Cabs
Model	Description	Type	Input	Chan.	FX	US$ List*	Your Price*
611 EX	Coda Speaker Cabinet - 1x10" speakers plus 1x5" mid 10" High, 12" Diameter, 13 lbs.	cabinet only	rated 300w@8ohm	-	-	US$ 549	Not available
680 EX	UpShot Speaker Cabinet 6" High, 11" Diameter, 11 lbs.	cabinet only	rated 300w@8ohm	-	-	US$ 429	Not available
690 EX	DoubleShot Speaker Cabinet - 2x10" speakers plus 1x5" mid 11" Wide, 12" Diameter, 15 lbs.	cabinet only	rated 600w@4ohm	-	-	US$ 719	Not available
* Prices subject to change due to currency exchange rate fluctuations, import fees, and other factors.
Combos
Any combination of AMP and CAB above. Includes mounting bracket for Coda and UpShot cabs
* Prices subject to change due to currency exchange rate fluctuations, import fees, and other factors.

All amps (heads) come with a padded gig bag.

Acoustic Image products have a five year warranty. The warranty does not cover items that have been obviously damaged through misuse. Details can be found in the manual.

Order now! Contact us at ghservices.com@gmail.com or call our toll-free order line 1-866-666-7858.

No sales tax for American orders. GST/HST will be added for sales in Canada, and PST for Ontario. Preferred payment methods are, in order: e-mail money transfer (INTERAC), bank wire transfer, certified cheque, money order, PayPal (+3%), Visa (+4%), MasterCard (+4%). Credit card payments for non-Canadian customers are in CA$ with exchange rates chosen by the credit card companies, resulting in minor variations from the prices given here. It is usually possible to use PayPal even if you don't have a PayPal account.

Features and Specs

Features for the Clarus and Focus models

Neutrik Speakon speaker connector

• Extended frequency range, balanced, high-fidelity sound
• Compact powder-coated enclosure (10x9x2.5 inches)
• Light weight (about 4lbs)
• Integrated preamp and power amp
• One or two channel preamp (with mic/instrument combo input)
• Phantom power for mic or outboard preamp
• Three-band EQ for each channel
• Input and master level controls
• Effects loop in each channel, with level control on effects return
• Switchable notch or low cut filter
• Optional 6-preset digital effect and level control
• Balanced direct out via XLR connector
• Ground lift switch on direct out
• 400 or 800 Watt switch mode power amplifier
• Dual speaker outputs via Neutrik Speakon connectors
• Switchable dual voltage operation (115/230V)
• Detachable AC power cord
• Comes with padded case, 6 foot power cable

Features for the Contra and Coda Combos

All of the feature of the Clarus, plus:

• Three-way sealed speaker system
• 10" downfiring woofer
• 5" midrange driver
• 1" tweeter with on/off switch
• Lightweight and durable enclosure (about 8 kilograms or 20 pounds)

Technical Specifications

Controls and Connections

The rear panel is shown for the Clarus head and for the head docked in a Coda or Corus combo.

For all enquiries, contact ghservices.com@gmail.com.