PHANTOM POWER
Allows you to “tap into” the power of a suitably equipped mixer, which, today,
most are. As the 3-conductor XLR sends the audio signal to the input of a
mixer, the mixer sends voltage back to the unit via the same 3 wires, eliminat-
ing the need for an external power supply. Consult your mixer’s owner’s man-
ual for set-up instructions. For live and studio use, let the engineer know your
VT Bass DI is phantom power operable.
PHANTOM & GROUND CONNECT SWITCH:
When
engaged, the ground connects and unit will accept phantom power through the
XLR Output
. Disengaged, the ground of your stage system and other intercon-
nected gear is lifted (isolated) from the ground of the mixing console.
With a mixer only:
If you are plugging your bass into the VT Bass DI and
taking the
XLR Output
to a mixer
--and do not have any other
grounded equipment connected in the setup--
you will have to push
the switch in to connect the ground and engage the phantom power.
With a mixer and bass amp:
If you are going to the mixer via the
XLR
and using the
1/4” Output
or
Parallel Output
to feed a bass amp (with its own
AC ground), you should have the switch disengaged (in the up position) to be
in “Ground Lift” mode. If you experience hum and/or buzz with the switch in
either position, there is probably a problem with the AC outlets you are plug-
ging into.
NOTE:
If using vintage equipment without proper grounds, take extra care
connecting it to modern grounded equipment. Any inadequacies of the ground
in vintage gear could result in damaging anything it is connected to.
NOTE:
While operating under phantom power, we recommend keeping a 9V
alkaline battery installed at all times to avoid the previously mentioned “pops”
when lifting the ground.
NOTEWORTHY NOTES & CONSIDERATIONS
1)
VT Bass DI is an interactive tool.
It will react differently to various
signal levels, as well as your individual touch. For instance, a hotter signal and a
heavy hand will increase the gain structure and result in more overdrive. A
cooler signal and a light touch decreases the gain structure for a cleaner sound.
By using Drive, Character and the EQ controls, you can achieve the proper
mix of tonality and gain structure that best suits your style.
2)
The noise level of VT Bass DI is exceptionally low.
However, it
may amplify noise emanating from the input source. Bear in mind that VT Bass
DI’s controls are unusually sensitive and do not require maximum levels of
input to achieve high levels of output. To minimize noise going into VT Bass DI,
we recommend the following:
a) Active electronic instruments
should have tone controls
positioned flat. If you need to boost, do so slowly and sparingly.
b) Passive electronic instruments
should have volume and
tone controls set at maximum.
3)
When you push VT Bass DI to saturation, you get enhanced harmonics,
just as you would with an overdriven tube amplifier. Depending on the setting,
the unique circuitry limits transient peaks for an even meter reading, so that
outboard compressors or limiters may not be necessary.
4)
Using effects.
One of the key attributes of SansAmp is the responsive-
ness to the dynamics and nuances of your playing technique. Therefore, your
bass should be plugged directly into the SansAmp and effects should be placed
after
the SansAmp. If, however, you prefer to place an effect before SansAmp,
be sure to set the output level of the effect at unity gain with the output level
of the instrument.
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