Aguilar DB751 clip light

Wild Steve · #1 01-12-2011, 03:05 PM

Just read a tip about setting gain levels, turn the master down to 0, then edge up the gain while plucking quite hard until the clip light comes on then back it off a bit and you're there.
Did this with my Spector Euro - seriously hot output active bass I believe - and even with Gain at max and even with the -6db switch disengaged the clip light never came on.
Should I expect it to?
Steve

babebambi · #2 01-12-2011, 08:50 PM

Wild Steve · #3 01-13-2011, 01:41 AM

When would I expect to see the clip light then? Are we talking about only extreme volume?
I tried the same on my Peavey and that didn't come on either - never really looked at it before.
Steve

JMarkD · #4 01-13-2011, 05:56 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Wild Steve

When would I expect to see the clip light then? Are we talking about only extreme volume?
I tried the same on my Peavey and that didn't come on either - never really looked at it before.
Steve

Hey Steve.

The clip light on the DB750/751 is, I believe, for the power amp or the tone stack. It is NOT for setting your input gain. I believe it will only flash when the power amp clips, which in my experience is just about never.

To set your input gain you have to use your ears. I set mine between 10 o' clock and noon depending on the bass used. I always run in the passive setting, simply lowering the gain knob if the preamp is breaking up from a hot input. I prefer a clean tone. If you like a bit of tubey break up, set the gain up around noon or higher.

Back to the clip light, as I said, in over eight years of using my 750, I have never seen that light flicker once. I have driven the head hard on several occasions at 2 ohms and never a blip. It will give a little flash when I turn the amp on, so I know it works! LOL.

You can always email Aquilar with any concerns or questions. They have really great customer service and usually get right back to you.

Wild Steve · #5 01-13-2011, 06:29 AM

Thanks very much JMarkD, sorry if it's a bit of a noobie question - but then that's one of the reasons why these forums are useful!

malcolm.mcintyr · #6 03-30-2011, 06:42 AM

I have never managed to get my 751 clip light to come on either. Thought it was broken, but didn't care because the amp sounds good.
I think the manual should explain though, because some amps (eg. SVT3 Pro) are meant to show the pre-amp clip light just flashing at full input from the bass, for best sound.