Ashdown Amp DI

[Ninja>Pirate]

Alright, I have an ashdown abm 500 as my amp (with an avatar 4x10 4 ohm) and this thing sounds awesome with my mustang bass. So awesome in fact that I don't use my Sansamp programmable bass DI anymore, my amp just sounds better pure.

Now the problem, if I do decide to get rid of the sansamp how do I convince the sound man to just use the DI on my amp? At gigs they are always scared of the DI on my amp and want to use the Sansamp instead or use their own DI box.

1. Do the input and output controls on my amp change the levels going out of the DI?
2. How can I convince soundmen to use the DI on my amp? I convinced the guy at one show to use it and it sounded and worked fine.
3. Should I just let them use their own DI box unless they need to use the DI on my amp and stop worrying about it?

 

[Espidog]

The D.I. output is totally independent of the amp's Output Level control. It is affected by the input level control and certain other pre-amp settings, but you can choose which things affect it (like EQ, effects loop etc.)

The following quote from the Ashdown ABM Manual pretty much says it all:

"A balanced D.I. is provided on the front panel via a rugged metal latching XLR socket. The ABM features
a push button placed below the XLR that allows the user to choose either a Pre E.Q. / Pre Sub signal or a
Post E.Q. / Post Sub and Effects signal (the Pre E.Q. signal also includes the Shape facility, if this is switched
into circuit)."

In other words, with the D.I. set to "Pre EQ", only the input level control and the "push flat/shape" button will affect it. On the "Post EQ" setting, the D.I. signal will include your own EQ settings and any effects units you have in the FX loop.

The ABM manual continues:

"The output signal from this XLR socket is set to a level and impedance suitable for connecting directly into the Microphone input of a mixing desk for either Direct Injection into the PA system or for recording. This must ONLY be used into a
Balanced Microphone input. It is not intended for any other type of connection. This has a floating ground
that is referenced to the mixing console it is plugged into and should not need ground lifting. It is also
unaffected by Phantom Powering on the Microphone input. Make sure your XLR plug does not have the
shell of the plug internally connected to the ground signal or this will connect the system to the chassis
ground of the amplifier and may cause problems with hum."

Your sound guys have absolutely no excuse for not using the ABM's DI output. If they make a fuss, just show them that description!

 

[Ninja>Pirate]

At first when I looked to see who had replied I was like owww only 1 reply... But that is all I needed to know and more! You're the best Espidog!

 

[matito]

at every gig i have done. the sound man has used the DI in my ashdown. sounded great, but i also have my input level on full.