BLACKSMITH

User’s manual
 Important Safety Instructions
1 Read these instructions. Warning!
2 Keep these instructions. • To reduce the risk of fire or electrical shock, do not expose this equipment to
3 Heed all warnings. dripping or splashing and ensure that no objects filled with liquids, such as vases,
4 Follow all instructions. are placed on the equipment.
• This apparatus must be earthed.

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5 Do not use this apparatus near water.
6 Clean only with dry cloth. • Use a three wire grounding type line cord like the one supplied with the product.
7 Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s • Be advised that different operating voltages require the use of different types of line
instructions. cord and attachment plugs.
8 Do not install near heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other • Check the voltage in your area and use the correct type. Please refer to the
apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat. following table:
9 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 third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are Voltage Line plug according to standard
provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an
electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet. 110-125 V UL817 and CSA C22.2 no 42.
10 Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs,
220-230V CEE 7 page VII, SR section
convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
107-2-D1/IEC 83 page C4.
11 Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
12 Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the 240V BS 1363 of 1984.
manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use Specification for 13A fused plugs and switched
caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from and unswitched socket outlets.
tip-over.

13 Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of • This equipment should be installed near the socket outlet and disconnection of the
time. device should be easily accessible.
14 Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the • To completely disconnect from AC mains, disconnect the power supply cord from
apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power supply cord or plug is the AC receptacle.
damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the • The mains plug of the power supply shall remain readily operable.
apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has • Do not install in a confined space.
been dropped. • Do not open the unit – risk of electric shock inside.

Caution:
You are cautioned that any change or modifications not expressly approved in this
manual could void your authority to operate this equipment.

Service
• There are no user-serviceable parts inside.
• All service must be performed by qualified personnel.

a
EMC / EMI & Certificate of conformity
EMC/EMI
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 residential installations. 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 equipment 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.

For Customers in Canada:

This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.

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 Table of contents
Introduction
Important Safety Instructions
& Certificate of Conformity....................................... a-b

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Table of Contents........................................................ 3
Introduction.................................................................. 4
Quick Setup Guide...................................................... 5

Operation
Front panel.................................................................. 7
RC-4.......................................................................... 14
Rear panel................................................................. 15

Appendix
General Protection mode.......................................... 19
Heat Protection mode............................................... 19
Signal Flow Diagram................................................. 20
Technical Specifications............................................ 21

TC Electronic, Sindalsvej 34, DK-8240 Risskov – info@tcelectronic.com English Version - Revision 1 Prod. No: 606150111
3
Introduction
Congratulations on the purchase of your last bass-amp for big stage use. Blacksmith unites immense power and versatility,
delivering a sound so massive that it is guaranteed to cover any demand imaginable. The raw power combined with nice features
such as presets, compression and TubeTone known from other TC Electronic bass amplifiers will keep the smile on your face for a
very long time. Bass amp 2.0 has just reached a high point. Blacksmith unites immense power and versatility, delivering a sound
so massive that it’s guaranteed to pierce through any mix – with ease!

Blacksmith - with Blacksmith behind you, power is not an issue. Large clubs, major venues or full-scale stadiums: No matter which stage
you enter – you’re covered all the way. You’ll be in control of a massive 1600 watts, delivering a huge bass tone that will follow your
slightest move while playing those hard-rocking bass lines and hammering riffs.

Tone Shaping Overdose – Blacksmith doesn’t just give you a set of rough tools for basic sound sculpting; it provides you with a full
arsenal of tone-shaping tools, allowing you to tailor any sound imaginable. The primary tone-shaping tool is the 4-band EQ that gives you
full control over Bass, Low-mid, High-mid and Treble for instant creation of your dream tones. In short, you can make crude tonal changes
or fine-tune subtle nuances with surgical precision depending on the situation. On top of that, three extremely versatile tools allow you to
gracefully enter the tonal corner of bass heaven: SpectraComp, TubeTone and TweeterTone.

SpectraComp – offers ‘per-string’ multi-band compression. In short, your sound gets compressed evenly across all strings without having
the dynamics of your playing destroyed. This is the way bass compressors should always have been done.

TubeTone – is all about that special, vintage feel. Turn it up just a bit for a touch of subtle tube warmth, give it another notch to add
genuine tube grind or crank it all the way up to get a roaring, in-your-face overdrive! With TubeTone, you get a painstaking recreation of
both the tube preamp and power amp sections. Putting a single tube in a preamp will not do the job – TubeTone will!

TweeterTone – is your tool of choice whenever you go for a modern, crisp sound that will take your sound to new heights –
frequency-wise! Perfect for capturing that distinct and razor-sharp slap sound that instantly makes the crowd embrace the bass!

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 Introduction
Built-in Tuner – Once you have tried this, there’s no turning back. The idea of having an internal chromatic bass tuner is as simple as
it is brilliant. The tuner is always ‘on’, which allows you to monitor your pitch status at all times – and to tune up swiftly between tunes if
needed.
Most amps come with a ‘tuner out’, but why have a rack tuner clutter up your rig? Why not build it in right from the start? There are literally

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no downsides, so it was really a no-brainer!

User memories – If you’ve ever used different basses or change playing style during shows, you know that a few amp presets would be
welcome. Blacksmith offers three on-board user memories, allowing you to switch easily between 4 and 5-string basses, Rickenbackers
and Fenders for that matter. You can also create three entirely different tones for one bass – e.g. overdrive using TubeTone, crisp and
cutting slap sound using SpectraComp and TweeterTone and a classic, old-school vintage tone. In short: Have it your way – three times!

POWER!!! – Power is not an issue – it is just something you have with Blacksmith. 1600 watts of raw, hard-punching power will keep you
loud and still leave plenty of headroom for ‘even louder’ in any band setting on any stage!

Also, Blacksmith is capable of operating at 8, 4 or 2 Ohms, so, ultimately, you could fire up four RS410 cabinets – that’s 16 x 10”, or 8.7
square foot of speaker cones blasting air in your direction! You better put that foot on the monitor to keep standing!

Please note - We reserve the rights to change the contents of this manual at any time. The
latest manual revision can always be downloaded from www.tcelectronic.com. If you need
additional information and support, be sure to visit the TC Support Portal:
www.tcelectronic.com/support

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Quick Setup guide
If you just can’t wait… Setting up
Here are a few quick steps to get you playing within minutes. • Connect the Speaker Out of the amplifier to your cabinet
using a Speakon cable.
Unpacking • Blacksmith can run any cabinet combination with a minimum
• Unpack your BLACKSMITH amp. load of 2 Ohm. To get the optimum performance from the
• The box should contain the following items: amplifier, make sure to select the correct Load Impedance
– BLACKSMITH amplifier on the back plate before powering up the amplifier.
– Power Cable
– Manual. Notice that the amplifier will NOT be damaged if a
• Inspect all items for signs of transit damage. In the unlikely wrong Load Impedance setting is selected, but a
event of this having occurred, inform the carrier and supplier. protection mode may be invoked.
• Keep all the packaging if damage has occurred, as this will (please refer to page 19 for more information)
show evidence of excessive handling force.
• It is also a good idea to keep the packaging for future • Connect the power cable and power up.
transportation. • Connect your bass to the input jack on the front panel.
• Adjust the input gain using the GAIN knob.
• Adjust the output volume using the MASTER knob.
• Play!

• RC-4 is an optional pedal with four footswitches that can

use to switch between three memory locations and also
to mute for tuning purposes. This pedal also shows tuner
information.

Be sure to check www.tcelectronic.com for latest news about

these and other TC products.

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 Operation – Front Panel
Front Panel

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1 – INPUT relevant bass frequency areas, and should allow you to dial in
You can connect an active or passive bass to this ¼” input jack. your sound with ease.
The BLACKSMITH input stage is designed to adapt to any type
of pickup. As you know, each instrument has its own sound characteristics.
If you feel that your BLACKSMITH’s tone controls don’t grab
2+3 – GAIN & OVERLOAD LED exactly the frequencies your particular instrument requires, you
The input gain should be set to the highest possible level without can change the center frequencies of the four EQ bands.
overloading the input stage. To find the correct setting, simply
plug in your bass, play and turn up the GAIN knob until the Changing Tone Control Frequency
OVERLOAD LED occasionally lights up. Then reduce the gain You can change the control frequencies of all four frequency
slightly. When set, simply turn up the MASTER volume knob to bands. This is sometimes referred to as “parametric bands” or
start playing. “sweepable”.
Normally, the BASS, LO-MID, HI-MID and TREBLE knobs are
4 – TONE Controls used to set the gain of each EQ band. To change the center
frequency of an EQ band, press the SHIFT button once and then
BLACKSMITH has four tone controls: Bass, Lo-mid, Hi-mid and
adjust a band’s center frequency by turning its knob.
Treble. These controls have been tuned carefully to address four

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Operation – Front Panel
While BLACKSMITH is in Shift mode, the SHIFT button
will be blinking to remind you that you are in Shift mode.
Example: When you haven’t been using the BLACKSMITH’s front
Press SHIFT and turn the panel controls for about twenty seconds, the LED will
LO-MID knob to change flash rapidly, and BLACKSMITH will automatically return
the center frequency of that to normal mode.
control.
Gain and Frequency Ranges
Bass Freq range: 71 Hz to 1120 Hz (default: 200)
Bass Gain range: -24 dB to +15 dB
(Shelving type)
Sometimes “sweepable” tone controls can be a bit
tedious to work with. Here is an easy step-by-step Low Mid Freq range: 100 Hz to 1600 Hz (default: 400)
guide to adjusting BLACKSMITH’s Low-mid band to Low Mid Gain range: -24 dB to +15 dB
your bass and setup: (Fixed 2.1 oct.)

• Boost the LO-MID band – the more you boost, the easier it High Mid Freq range: 200 Hz to 3150 Hz (default: 800)
is to find the right frequency. High Mid Gain range: -24 dB to +15 dB
• Hit the SHIFT button to get access to the center frequency (Fixed 2.1 oct.)
of the EQ bands.
• Now, while playing your bass, slowly turn the LO-MID knob Treble Freq range: 400 Hz to 6300 Hz (default: 4000)
to sweep the low-mid frequency across the frequency range. Treble Gain range: -24 dB to +12 dB
• When you find the frequency that you prefer to control, (Shelving type)
simply hit the SHIFT button again to switch back to gain
control and set the right amount of low-mid gain.

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 Operation – front panel
5 – SPECTRACOMP™ Spectral Compression vs. Full Band Compression
Turn the knob to adjust the amount of SpectraComp Virtually any compressor on the market for bass is based on a
compression. “full band” principle, meaning that the compressor will respond

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and compress identically across the full (20 Hz to 20 kHz)
SpectraComp™ uses a so-called spectral or multi-band frequency range.
approach to compression, allowing for individual compression of From the low E (or B) string to the G string: The electric
the low, mid and high frequency bands. Multiband compression bass has a very wide dynamic range. When using standard
allows a significantly smoother and more transparent compressors, the low E string will – due to its higher energy –
compression without killing dynamics or tone. control when and how the compressor responds to and shapes
the entire signal. The typical result is that either the G string is
SpectraComp™ is an advanced compressor, optimized to get not compressed at all or that – just when the G string starts to
the best from a bass signal. If you simply want to hear it just sound right –, the low E string is compressed too strongly. In
turn the knob while playing. If you want to know a bit more about other words: You are constantly dealing with a tight and difficult
what is going on behind the scenes, please read the following compromise.
section.
With Spectral Compression, the BLACKSMITH amplifier uses
SpectraComp In Depth a different approach that allows for independent compression
Gain Reduction / Compression Meter of the Low, Mid and High frequency areas. This way, the right
When using SpectraComp™, the light-ring around the amount of compression is added to the individual strings of
SPECTRACOMP knob doubles as a compression meter, your bass, resulting in a smoother and much more transparent
showing you how much compression is applied to the signal. compression.

Auto Make-up Gain

As compression by nature reduces the loudest parts and peaks
of the signal, you may feel that many conventional compressors
“eat” the level of your signal, resulting in a lower output volume.
SpectraComp™ automatically compensates for compression
gain reduction, giving you an even output volume.

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Operation – front panel
5 – TWEETERTONE™ (in Shift Mode) TubeTone™ through the BLACKSMITH tone controls as you
Many heads and cabinets include a so-called “L pad” HF control would on an actual tube amp.
on the back side of the cabinet. This control normally sets the
level of the tweeter in the cabinet and is used to adjust the level
of high frequencies.
TweeterTone is a far more intuitive and much better way of
adjusting the high frequency content. By using TweeterTone,
you do not simply turn the tweeter up and down in level – you
also get a much more musical and pleasant HF adjustment. And
instead of having to fumble around on the back of the cabinet,
you can simply use the TweeterTone knob right there on the
front panel.
Finally, TweeterTone is stored as part of your presets. This
allows you to adjust the level of HF with the rest of your sound
and thus go from a round and warm vintage sound to a sparkling
and crisp slap-setting – simply by hitting a preset switch. The TUBETONE knob adjusts the amount of both the
preamp and the power-amp tube simulation.
6 – TUBETONE™
TubeTone™ allows you to alter the “personality” and sound of
your BLACKSMITH. The effects you can achieve range from a 6 – PRESET LEVEL (in Shift Mode)
small touch of classic tube amp response and character through Press SHIFT and then turn the TUBETONE knob to adjust
obvious, but pleasant “tube attitude” to highly overdriven. the level of the currently selected MEM/preset. When you
haven’t been using the BLACKSMITH’s front panel controls
Contrary to many tube simulations, TubeTone™ recreates for about twenty seconds, the LED will flash rapidly, and the
both the entire preamp section (located before the tone control BLACKSMITH will automatically return to normal mode. In
section) and the power amp section (located after the tone normal mode, the TUBETONE knob controls the intensity of the
controls). Not only does this give you the most realistic and Tubetone™ effect.
flexible recreation of the actual tube sound and response, Range: -12 dB to 0 dB
but it also allows you to alter the behavior and character of

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 Operation – front panel
7 – MASTER Storing settings is extremely simple:
Use the MASTER level knob to set the overall output level of the – Dial in the settings that you like.
amp. The master level also controls the level of the headphone – Press and hold one of the MEM buttons for circa two

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output. seconds.
– When the MEM button blinks, your settings have been
8 – MUTE stored.
The MUTE button mutes both the speaker and the balanced – To recall a MEM setting, simply press the corresponding
output. This means that you can tune up with no sound going to MEM button once.
your own rig or to the PA.
What is stored?
9 – SHIFT Any parameter that is operated by a light ring knob is stored.
This means the settings of all front panel controls – apart from
The SHIFT button is used to access the secondary functions
the Master level, the SHIFT and MUTE buttons – are stored.
marked with red text on BLACKSMITH’s front panel.
The following controls have secondary functions:
Why MEM settings?
Even though many bass players tend to play with the same
Normal mode Shift mode (press SHIFT)
sound most of the time, a lot of them do have a couple of
EQ (1-4) EQ Bands Center Frequencies
different basses, playing styles, pickup settings or other factors
SPECTRACOMP TweeterTone adjust
that require amp settings to be changed. We figured that it would
TUBETONE Preset/Memory Level Settings
be handy to simply push one button instead of fiddling with
several knobs.
When you haven’t been using BLACKSMITH’s front panel
controls for about twenty seconds, the BLACKSMITH will return
Remote Control
to normal mode, where the knobs control the primary functions
printed in white. BLACKSMITH’s optional remote control – “RC-4” – allows for
floor recall of all three MEM settings as well as mute and tuner
10 – MEM 1/2/3 display.
BLACKSMITH features three user memories which allow you to
effortlessly store and recall your favorite settings.

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Operation – front panel
11 – TUNER
BLACKSMITH is equipped with a fully chromatic, high accuracy
bass tuner. The tuner is always active, whether BLACKSMITH is
in Mute mode or not. Here is how you read the display:
The played note is shown on the left side of the display.
Too low – tune up Too high – tune down In tune
On the right side of the display,
– a circle indicates that the note is in tune. Tuner information is also displayed in the optional RC-4
– an arrow pointing right indicates that the note is too low and footswitch. Yes, this is correct: If you have a RC-4 footswitch,
should be tuned up. you do no longer need a separate tuner. Please refer to the
– an arrow pointing left indicates that the note is too high and manual section “RC-4” to learn more about this footswitch.
should be tuned down.

Too low – tune up Too high – tune down In tune

Sharp notes: C#, D#, F#, G# and A# are indicated as follows:

Example – A#

The tuner also offers a Mute mode with additional tuner

information. To activate Mute mode, simply press the MUTE
button. Now the BASS tone control turns into a high resolution
pitch indicator supporting the Note and Arrow field of the tuner.

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 Operation – front panel
Tuner Reference
BLACKSMITH’s default tuner reference is 440 Hz – just like any
other tuner. However, you can select any reference frequency

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between 438 and 445 Hz.

This is how you select the tuner reference frequency:

– If BLACKSMITH is switched on, switch it off.
– Press and hold the MUTE button during power up.
– BLACKSMITH now powers up in Tuner reference mode, – Press the MUTE button to exit Tuner Reference mode.
which is illustrated by an “R” in the Display (see illustration
below).
Please note that the tuner’s reference frequency is
remembered even after powering the unit off.

Tune Reference mode

– Dial the BASS tone control to alter the tuner reference. The
center position equals 440 Hz, and each LED represents
one Hertz. So to set the tuner reference frequency e.g. to
438 Hz, turn the BASS knob counter-clockwise until the
second LED on the left lights up.

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RC-4

The optional RC-4 footswitch not only allows you to This is useful for tuning or e.g. unplugging/changing your bass.
remotely access the BLACKSMITH’s three memory The MUTE button also mutes the BLACKSMITH’s
locations (MEM 1/2/3), but also to mute the signal for balanced output, allowing you to tune silently, even
silent tuning and even view the tuner information. No when connected to the PA system.
power-supply is needed for the RC-4 as it receives its power
from BLACKSMITH. 3 – DISPLAY
The display always indicates tuner information in a couple of
1 – Memory Switches 1, 2 and 3
different ways. The detected note is shown on the left side. On
Press one of the three numbered buttons to recall the settings the right side of the display, a circle indicates that the note is in
stored in the associated MEM location. A green light ring tune, an arrow pointing to the right indicates that the note should
around the switch indicates that this MEM setting has been recalled be tuned up, and an arrow pointing to the left indicates that the
(activated). note should be tuned down. In addition to these indications (that
– Note that you can only recall a MEM setting if a setting has are also shown on the BLACKSMITH tuner display), a line of
actually been stored in a memory location. nine dots below the display indicates how far from the target
– Also note that as soon as you change one of the stored pitch the currently played note is. When only the center dot is lit,
settings on the BLACKSMITH front panel, the green light the note is in tune.
ring on the footswitch will be unlit. This indicates that the
positions of the front panel knobs no longer correspond to
the stored settings.
2 – MUTE button
Press the M(ute) button to mute the BLACKSMITH’s outputs. Too low – tune up Too high – tune down In tune

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 Rear Panel
Rear Panel

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CLASS 2 WIRING
SERIAL NO.
SPEAKER OUT Minimum Load: 2 Ohm

LOAD IMPEDANCE
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN 4 OHM OR ABOVE
WARNING TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT
2 OHM
EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
AVIS RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE-NE PAS OUVRIR
ALLOWED SPEAKER FREE OPERATION

C
R

US
FILE# 186633
1600W BASS AMPLIFIER BLACKSMITH
MAINS IN

UTILITY ZONE MADE IN DENMARK

MAINS GROUND MUST BE CONNECTED
REMOTE IN DIGITAL OUT LINE DRIVER OUT
5V/100mA PRE/POST PREAMP transformer balanced
SEND

RETURN

AES/EBU 96kHz EFFECTS LOOP PRE

(S/PDIF Compatible) SEND / RETURN POST
PRE-AMPLIFIER

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Operation – Rear Panel
1 – MAINS IN – Power In & POWER switch
Make sure that the voltage of the power grid you are connecting 4 Ohm
BLACKSMITH
INPUT
HOLD
TO STORE MEM 1 MEM 2 MEM 3 SHIFT MUTE

1600W CLASS-D BASS AMPLIFIER

O
2 Ohm
BLACKSMITH
INPUT
HOLD
TO STORE MEM 1 MEM 2 MEM 3 SHIFT MUTE

1600W CLASS-D BASS AMPLIFIER

O
4 Ohm
BLACKSMITH
INPUT
HOLD
TO STORE MEM 1 MEM 2 MEM 3 SHIF

to matches your BLACKSMITH model.

I I

ACTIVE / PASSIVE ACTIVE / PASSIVE ACTIVE / PASSIVE

PICK-UP
GAIN BASS LO-MID HI-MID TREBLE SPECTRACOMP
TM
TUBETONE
TM
MASTER PICK-UP
GAIN BASS LO-MID HI-MID TREBLE SPECTRACOMP
TM
TUBETONE
TM
MASTER PICK-UP
GAIN BASS LO-MID HI-MID TREBLE
BLACKSMITH CENTER TWEETERTONE
TM
PRESET LEVEL BLACKSMITH CENTER TWEETERTONE
TM
PRESET LEVEL BLACKSMITH CENTER
SERIAL NO. 0012 SERIAL NO. 0012 SERIAL NO. 0012
HANDCRAFTED IN DENMARK HANDCRAFTED IN DENMARK HANDCRAFTED IN DENMARK

The 115 V model can handle voltages between 100 V and 120 V.
The 230 V model can handle voltages between 220 V and 240 V.

The ground pin of the power supply unit must be

connected in order to avoid voltage differences between
e.g. the PA and the BLACKSMITH.

2/3 – SPEAKER OUT & LOAD IMPEDANCE SWITCH

Use the Speakon SPEAKER OUT connectors for connecting
speaker cabinets. Use quality speaker cables only. Do NOT use
4 – REMOTE IN
instrument cables!
Use the REMOTE IN jack to connect the BLACKSMITH to the
If you intend to use Blacksmith with a 2 Ohm cabinet optional footswitch/remote “RC-4”.
configuration, please select the 2 Ohm mode using the small The RC-4 gives you access to the three memory locations, the
switch placed next to the Speakon connectors. mute function, and has tuner indication as well.
(Default setting for the switch is 4 Ohm.)

Configurations of 4 Ohm and above should be run in the 4 Ohm

mode. Selecting the wrong impedance mode will not damage
your amp, but may cause BLACKSMITH to go into Protection
Mode, thus muting the speaker outputs. Please see the general The RC-4
Protection Mode Section for further information. 5 – DIGITAL OUT
Use the DIGITAL OUT to connect BLACKSMITH’s digital output
stage directly to a digital audio device, such as a computer’s
audio interface. This way, you can record your bass sound

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 Operation – rear panel
straight into Pro Tools, Logic or any other DAW application. 6 – INSERT PREAMP I/O – Effects Loop/Break point
The digital output signal is in 96 kHz/24 Bit AES/EBU format. These jacks provide a break point between BLACKSMITH’s
This ensures the highest possible resolution and quality of your preamp section (which includes SpectraComp™, Tone controls

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recorded bass signal. To determine where in the signal chain and the TubeTone™ module) and the power amp section. This
the signal for the digital output should be tapped, use the PRE/ break point can be used as a regular serial effects loop for
POST switch located right beside the LINE DRIVER OUT jack inserting e.g. modulation effects or other external devices.
on the BLACKSMITH’s rear panel. Your bass signal is present
on both Left and Right digital channel. Linking Two Amps
The break point may also be used to link two BLACKSMITH
Setting up for recording: units together to achieve even more power.
In order to record straight from BLACKSMITH’s digital output, – Use a standard ¼” jack instrument cable to connect
follow these steps: the first BLACKSMITH SEND (the upper) to the second
– Connect BLACKSMITH’s DIGITAL OUT to your DAW. BLACKSMITH’s RETURN (the lower jack).
– Set your DAW to sync/slave to “external clock”. – Plug your bass into the INPUT jack on the first
– Hit the record button in your DAW and start playing. BLACKSMITH and adjust your sound using the controls on
CLASS 2 WIRING
this BLACKSMITH. CLASS 2 WIRING

SPDIF Compatibility – Set the volume using the MASTER volume knobs of both
SERIAL NO.
SPEAKER OUT Minimum Load: 2 Ohm SERIAL NO.
SPEAKER OUT Minimum Load: 2 Ohm

While a simple XLR to RCA converter may suffice to allow CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
LOAD IMPEDANCE
amps. You now have – let us say “enough” amplification
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
LOAD IMPEDANCE

power at your fingertips!

DO NOT OPEN 4 OHM OR ABOVE DO NOT OPEN 4 OHM OR ABOVE

recording through an SPDIF interface, please note that AES/

WARNING TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT
2 OHM WARNING TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT
2 OHM
EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE. EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
AVIS RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE-NE PAS OUVRIR AVIS RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE-NE PAS OUVRIR
ALLOWED SPEAKER FREE OPERATION ALLOWED SPEAKER FREE OPERATION

EBU and SPDIF have different level and impedance specifications,

MAINS IN
C
R

US
FILE# 186633

MAINS IN
C
R

US
FILE# 186633
1600W BASS AMPLIFIER BLACKSMITH 1600W BASS AMPLIFIER BLACKSMITH
which in some cases can cause compatibility problems.
UTILITY ZONE MADE IN DENMARK UTILITY ZONE MADE IN DENMARK
MAINS GROUND MUST BE CONNECTED MAINS GROUND MUST BE CONNECTED
REMOTE IN DIGITAL OUT REMOTE IN DIGITAL OUT

If you want to record with an analog signal instead,

LINE DRIVER OUT LINE DRIVER OUT
5V/100mA PRE/POST PREAMP transformer balanced 5V/100mA PRE/POST PREAMP transformer balanced
SEND SEND

you may also use the BLACKSMITH’s balanced output RETURN RETURN

signal from the LINE DRIVER OUT jack.

AES/EBU 96kHz EFFECTS LOOP PRE AES/EBU 96kHz EFFECTS LOOP PRE
(S/PDIF Compatible) SEND / RETURN POST (S/PDIF Compatible) SEND / RETURN POST
PRE-AMPLIFIER PRE-AMPLIFIER

Please see relevant setup example on the following page.

17
Operation Rear Panel

“LINK” BLACKSMITH’s MUTE button mutes both the speaker

4 Ohm 4 Ohm
and headphones outputs. This means that you can
Send
HOLD HOLD
TO STORE MEM 1 MEM 2 MEM 3 SHIFT MUTE TO STORE MEM 1 MEM 2 MEM 3 SHIFT MUTE

BLACKSMITH BLACKSMITH

tune up with no sound going to your own rig or to the

1600W CLASS-D BASS AMPLIFIER 1600W CLASS-D BASS AMPLIFIER

INPUT INPUT
O O
I I

BLACKSMITH
SERIAL NO. 0012
HANDCRAFTED IN DENMARK
ACTIVE / PASSIVE
PICK-UP
GAIN BASS LO-MID
CENTER
HI-MID TREBLE SPECTRACOMP
TWEETERTONE
TM
TM
TUBETONE
TM

PRESET LEVEL
MASTER
Return BLACKSMITH
SERIAL NO. 0012
HANDCRAFTED IN DENMARK
ACTIVE / PASSIVE
PICK-UP
GAIN BASS LO-MID
CENTER
HI-MID TREBLE SPECTRACOMP
TWEETERTONE
TM
TM
TUBETONE
TM

PRESET LEVEL
MASTER

PA.

BLACKSMITH’s balanced output has been designed with

the utmost care for the sound. This is achieved through a
galvanic isolated transformer coupling. The active design by far
outperforms most standard DI boxes around, and it is capable of
driving long cable hauls. No phantom power is required.

Ventilation
Be sure not to cover the black cooling plate of the BLACKSMITH
amplifier! Insufficient ventilation may cause the amplifier’s
temperature to increase.

If your BLACKSMITH is insufficiently ventilated, it may go

into Heat Protection mode, which is indicated by an “H”
Example: 1600 W power per stack.
on the front panel display. Please read more on the
The left head controls both stacks.
following page.
8 – LINE DRIVER OUT – Balanced Line Out
Use the LINE DRIVER OUT jack to connect your BLACKSMITH
to the PA when you play on stage or to connect it to a recording
device when you are in the studio.
To determine where in the signal chain the signal for the
balanced output should be tapped, use the PRE/POST switch
(7), located right next to the LINE DRIVER OUT jack.

18
 Appendix – Miscellaneous
Protection mode Heat Protection Mode
BLACKSMITH is equipped with an intelligent protection system, If the display indicates an “H”, the amp is too hot. This is rarely
ensuring that the amp does not suffer or malfunction if operated seen, but a few extreme situations can invoke this mode:

EN
wrongly or in extreme environments.
a) If the amplifier is used in an environment that is too hot, or if
General Protection mode proper ventilation is not ensured.
If the BLACKSMITH’s display indicates “P”, the amp is in
b) The Load Impedance switch on the amplifier’s back plate
Protection mode.
must match the load of the connected cabinet configuration.
If the Load Impedance switch is set to 4 Ohm and the
Protection mode is invoked if for some reason a short-circuit
amplifier is run at high levels over a long period of time with
situation occurs. In Protection mode, the speaker outputs are
a 2 Ohm speaker configuration, the amplifier may enter Heat
shut off so that the speakers cannot be damaged by a shortcut.
Protection mode.
The balanced output, digital recording out and the effects loop,
however, are still passing audio in Protection mode.
In both situations, proceed as follows:
– Turn off the amplifier.
To remedy the problem, try turning off your BLACKSMITH for
– Solve the issues.
a minute and then turn it on again. If the display still indicates
– Allow the amplifier to cool off for a few minutes.
“P”, you will have to send your BLACKSMITH to a qualified
– Turn on the amplifier again.
service-center for inspection.
Notice that due to Blacksmiths protection features the
amplifier will NOT be damaged if a wrong Load
Impedance setting is selected.

19
Appendix – signal flow

DIGITAL
RECORDING
OUT

“LINK”

“LINK”

ACTIVE
SPECTRA TUBETONE TONE TUBETONE TWEETER PRESET MASTER POWER
INPUT GAIN MUTE POWER
COMP PRE CONTROLS POST TONE LEVEL VOLUME AMP
MANAGEMENT

“LINK”
TUNER

POWER AMP RETURN

IN JACK

“LINK”

PREAMP SEND
OUT
GALVANIC ISOLATION
WITH DI DRIVER

DI

20
 Appendix – Technical specifications
Input Section Power rating 1600 W (4500 W Peak)
Input connector 1/4” jack
Input impedance 1 MOhm / 100 pF 2 Ohm / >4 Ohm setting Recessed Toggle Switch
Gain range -96 to 32 dB

EN
Balanced output Transformer Balanced XLR, Pre/Post Pre-amp
Tone controls Max. Output +0 dBu
Bass Default Freq: 200 Hz (range: 71-1120 Hz,
Gain: +15/-24 dB) - Shelving type. Optimal Load Impedance 600 Ohm
Low Mid Default Freq: 400 Hz (range: 100-1600 Hz,
Gain: +15/-24 dB) Preamp out 1/4” Jack, Balanced Output, Max Output Level =
High Mid Default Freq: 800 Hz (range: 200-3150 Hz, +8 dBu
Gain: +15/-24 dB)
Treble Default Freq: 4000 Hz (range: 400-6300 Hz, Power amp in 1/4” Jack, balanced input, impedance =
Gain: +15/-24 dB) - Shelving type. 10 kOhm, Max Input Level = +8 dBu

Tweeter Tone -12 to 12, L-PAD Cabinet Recreation Digital Recording out Balanced XLR, AES/EBU, (24 Bit)

Tube Tone 0 to 12, Tube amp Recreation Remote connection 5 pin DIN, Cable with shield

Spectra Comp 3 band Spectral Compression Operating/Storage

Temperature 0° C to 50° C / -30° C to 70° C
Preset Level -12 dB to 0 gain attenuation
Humidity Max. 90 % non-condensing
User Memories 3 memory locations storing all front panel controls
except Mute & Master Level Dimensions 483 x 412 x 178 mm / 19” x 16.2” x 7”

Tuner Weight 12 kg / 26.5 pounds

Tuning range Chromatic, constant on
A0 (27.50 Hz) to E5 (659.26 Hz) Finish Anodized aluminum front
Plated and painted steel chassis
Mute Mutes Speaker out and Balanced out

Mains supply 100-120V~ or 220-240V~ 50/60 Hz

(200 W @ 1/8 Power)

Speaker out 2x SpeakonTM

Due to continuous development, these specifications
are subject to change without notice.

21