Welcome to the FAQ page of the Crate Audio site. Below is a primary list of questions/answers which can be added to on request.
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GENERAL INSPECTION
oCHECK CABLES FOR PROPER WORKING ORDER AND CONNECTION
oCHECK ALL AMPLIFIER AND INSTRUMENT JACKS FOR PROPER WORKING ORDER
oCHECK EXTENSION SPEAKER CABLES, EFFECT SEND, EFFECT PROCESSORS
oCHECK AMPLIFIER FOR PHYSICAL DAMAGE
oALWAYS CONSULT OWNER'S MANUAL
oIF IN ANY WAY UNSURE OF PROBLEM OR OPERATION, PLEASE CONSULT A CERTIFIED SERVICE TECHNICIAN.
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| 1. My amplifier doesn't appear to be receiving power. |
First, make sure that your power cord is plugged in to a live, properly grounded outlet. If that checks out, make sure the power switch is in the ON position. If you are still not getting any power, you may have a blown fuse. Fuses blow for a reason and something may have shorted out. Your best bet would be to have it checked by an Authorized Service Center.
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| 2. My amplifier is losing volume. |
| Many times when an amp is cutting out, it is due to a faulty instrument cable or a bad jack in the instrument itself. All cables, including the cables used for effects pedals, processors, and extension speaker cabinets should be checked for proper operation. Also confirm that the jack in your instrument is working properly. If there is still a cutting out problem, you should have the unit checked out by an Authorized Service Center. |
| 3. I turn my amplifier all the way up, but I can still barely hear it. |
| This is another problem that can be caused by a faulty cable or band instrument jack. All cables need to be checked for proper operation, including the cables used for effects pedals, processors, and extension speaker cabinets. Also confirm that the instrument jack is working properly and that the speaker cables are securely attached. Each amplifier is different in it's operation. A quick look into your owner's manual to confirm proper hook-up could save you a trip to a repair center. If all cables and jacks are in proper working order and you have confirmed that your rig is hooked up properly, you should have the unit checked out by an Authorized Service Center. |
| 4. How do go about getting my amp to be repaired? |
| If your amplifier should require service, you have two options: The first option is to take it to an Authorized Service Center in your area. A list of service centers is available on the CRATE website or by contacting our CUSTOMER SERICE DEPARTMENT. Your second option is to send the unit back to our factory service center for repair. You should first contact them for a RETURN AUTHORIZATION NUMBER and shipping instructions. |
| 5. If I decide to have my amplifier repaired, do I have to pay for it? |
| If you haven't already, now would be a good time to familiarize yourself with the WARRANTY that was included with your amp. Within it you will find all the information in regards to what is covered, how long it is covered, and what is required by the purchaser in order to obtain Warranty Service. |
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| 6.What is phantom power? |
| Some microphones (Cardiod) can utilize external "phantom" power to operate at their optimum level. This feature supplies that power to selected jacks. Check your microphones to see if they require phantom power and/or an internal battery. |
| 7. What makes Crate's Speakers and tweeters "Special Design?" |
| CRATE special design speakers are produced to exact specifications strictly for CRATE products. |
| 8. How does the effects loop work? |
| The effects loop gives you ability to "mix" an external device into the overall sound that your amp produces. Most effects loops consist of a SEND jack and a RETURN jack. The SEND jack is the outgoing signal from your amp and goes to the input jack of your effects processor. The return jack is for the incoming signal and comes from the output jack from your effects processor. (See your owner's manual for more information). |
| 9. What is Onboard DSP? |
| On board DSP means that your amp is equipped with a built in Digital Signal Processor. Although the effects that are built in to the DSP on each particular amp may vary the operation is usually very basic and can be changed by simply adjusting the DSP control knob. Your owner's manual will have details on what each effect does and how to use them). |
| 10. What is a Limiter? |
| The limiter is provided to protect your amp and your speakers. It keeps the power amp from clipping, while maintaining full power without distorting the signal. |
| 11. What does a crossover do? |
| A crossover separates low frequencies from high frequencies. When used in an amplifier, the crossover routes the low frequencies to the larger speaker and the higher frequencies to a tweeter or horn. The results produce a full, broad range from the cabinet. |
| 12. What does the impedance matter? |
| Matching the impedance on your amplifier (head) and speaker cabinet is very important. The impedance is basically the resistance of the speakers. For tube amplifiers, always match the suggested resistance. For solid state, don't exceed the minimum. For instructions on how to connect extension cabinets, external speakers, etc… please consult your owner's manual or contact a certified Service Technician. |
13. Is there any way I can "tune up" my amplifier at home?
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Usually a clean amplifier is a happy amplifier. First, make sure that your amplifier is dust free. Dust and micro-specs of dirt often interfere with electronic processes. Make sure your amp is unplugged. Then, take a moist rag and clean any areas you feel have been exposed to excess dust or grim. Dirt is famous for intruding into the "pots" of knobs on the front of amps. This, in turn will sometimes cause interference or static when adjusting them. You might try vigorously turning the knob back and fourth to self lubricate the knobs and disperse the dirt. You could also try using a lubricant like WD-40 to lubricate each knob. When cleaning anything with electronics it is also best not to oversaturate any area with moisture. After a light cleaning, you might purchase a can of compressed air to clean hard to reach areas.
o Unplug!
o Wipe Amp with a moist cloth
o Vigorously Turn Knobs
o Apply Lubricant
o Use Compressed Air for fine Cleaning
For additional product support, please contact the SLM Service Center at 1-314-569-0141 or 1-800-738-7563.
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