4
OUTPUT
-
The rear output jack is 1/4" unbalanced and uses a typical guitar cord. The
output level at the jack is a hot, line-level, so be sure to have an appropriate setting for
whatever device follows the V8 whether it be an effects unit or an amplifier.
XLR OUTPUT JACK
- The XLR output on the V8 is transformer balanced utilizing a
very high grade, USA-built, mu-metal shielded balancing transformer. Standard pin
configuration: pin 2 is hot, pin 3 is cold, and pin 1 is ground. The output level at the XLR
is padded down to a fairly strong "microphone" level so it's ideal for going directly to a
mixer or mic preamp for either live or recording situations. The XLR output level is FAR
lower than the hot 1/4" output jack.
GROUND LIFT SWITCH
- The XLR output provides a ground lift switch. Sometimes in
certain setups, a ground hum can be induced when using the XLR output. If this
happens, flip the XLR ground lift switch and choose the setting that removes the hum.
The switch is controlling whether XLR pin 1 is connected to the chassis or not.
VOLTAGE SWITCH
- The V8 has a small red slide switch on back that lets you choose whether
your mains voltage supply is 115V (North America) or 230V (Europe, Down Under, etc.) Be
VERY sure this is set where it should be so you don't' blow the fuse or risk harming the preamp.
TUBES
-
The V8-Guitar preamp uses two different octal tubes. The
first
tube is a 6SL7
and handles the primary gain and EQ stage. This is a high gain tube and this is where
much of the magic happens. You can find modern versions of this tube made by Tung-
Sol (this is what comes with your V8), or if you want to go searching for some vintage
tubes, they are out there. Be sure to have one selected for "low microphonics" so that
you don't hear the tube when you tap on the chassis.
The
second
tube in the V8-G is a 6SN7. This is a lower gain but a very hearty "driver"
tube. This second tube is what actually drives the output of the preamp. Again, the
preamp ships with a new Tung-Sol version of the 6SN7, but if you want to find a
premium vintage one, be sure it tests well for low microphonics. There are some great
vintage octal tubes out there, but beware, you will pay a fair price for the good ones that
test well.