Blackstar Sonnet 60 - User Manual

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Summary

Important Safety Instructions

Fire and Electric Shock Warnings

Instructions to reduce the risk of fire or electric shock by avoiding exposure to liquids and moisture.

Risk of Electric Shock Warning

Cautionary symbols and statements regarding high internal voltages and the risk of electric shock.

Warning and Danger Information

High Internal Operating Voltages

Warning about high internal operating voltages and the need for qualified service personnel.

Introduction and Product Overview

Front Panel Controls

Channel 1 Functionality

Details controls for Channel 1, including input, phase, gain, shape, EQ, and reverb.

Channel 2 Functionality

Details controls for Channel 2, including input, gain, shape, EQ, reverb, and HPF.

Master and Connectivity Features

Covers Brilliance, Master volume, Power Indicator, and Bluetooth connectivity.

Rear Panel Connections and Features

Audio and Data Ports

Details USB Audio, Mix D.I. XLR Output, and MP3/Line In connections.

Ground Lift Switch

Explanation of the Ground Lift switch for reducing hum and noise.

Power and Footswitch Connections

Information on connecting a footswitch, power switch, and mains input.

Tilt-Back and Stand Adaptor

Tilt-back Stand Operation

Instructions for adjusting the tilt-back stand for optimal speaker placement.

SA-2 Stand Adaptor Mounting

Guide for mounting the optional SA-2 Stand Adaptor for speaker stand use.

The Blackstar Sonnet 60 is an acoustic amplifier designed to provide a natural response and versatile tone shaping for acoustic instruments and vocals. It features a two-channel design, each with independent controls, and a range of global effects and connectivity options for live performance, recording, and practice.

Function Description:

The Sonnet 60 serves as a compact and powerful amplification solution for acoustic musicians. Channel 1 is optimized for acoustic guitars with high-impedance piezo pickups, offering precise tone control and feedback suppression. Channel 2 is a combination XLR/jack input, suitable for microphones or other instruments, providing similar tone shaping capabilities. The amplifier includes a natural-sounding digital reverb with two types (Hall and Plate) and adjustable decay time. Global controls for High Pass Filter and Brilliance allow for further refinement of the overall sound. Connectivity options include a USB audio socket for recording, a balanced XLR D.I. output for connecting to external mixers, an MP3/Line In jack for backing tracks, and Bluetooth for wireless audio streaming. An optional footswitch can be used to mute the amplifier or defeat the reverb. The amplifier also features a tilt-back stand and an optional SA-2 Stand Adaptor for flexible positioning.

Important Technical Specifications:

Power: 60 Watts
Weight: 7.7 kg
Dimensions (W x H x D): 345mm x 310mm x 250mm
Speakers: 1 x Custom Designed Tweeter, 1 x Custom Designed 6.5" Speaker (Natural 60 - 4ohms)
Footswitch (not supplied): FS-17 latching footswitch
Channel 1 Input Impedance: >10MΩ
- Shape EQ: +3dB @ 120Hz, -7dB @ 1kHz, +3dB @ 10kHz
- Low EQ: +/-10dB @ 80Hz
- Mid EQ: +/-10dB @ 700Hz
- High EQ: +/-10dB @ 10kHz
Channel 2 1/4" Input Impedance: 1MΩ
Channel 2 XLR Input Impedance: 1.4KΩ (Balanced)
- Shape EQ: +3dB @ 120Hz, -7dB @ 1kHz, +3dB @ 10kHz
- Low EQ: +/-10dB @ 80Hz
- High EQ: +/-10dB @ 10kHz
Global High Pass Filter: -6dB @ 27Hz (Min) to 175Hz (Max)
Global Brilliance: +/-12dB @ 16kHz
Line In Impedance: 100KΩ
D.I. Output Impedance: >1KΩ
Mains Input: 100V-240V~50/60Hz, 115 Watts
Fuse: T1.6AL250V

Usage Features:

Channel 1 (1/4" Jack Input): High impedance input ideal for piezo pickups. Features a PHASE switch to suppress feedback, GAIN control with "dynamics control processing" for smooth peaks and increased headroom, SHAPE switch for two basic EQ voicings (flat or mid-cut with low/high boost), and 3-band EQ (LOW, MID, HIGH) for precise tone shaping. Independent REVERB level control.
Channel 2 (Combination XLR / Jack Input): Suitable for microphones or other instruments. Features GAIN control with "dynamics control processing," SHAPE switch for two basic EQ voicings, and 2-band EQ (LOW, HIGH). Independent REVERB level control.
Reverb Type: Selects between "Hall" (lush natural reverb) and "Plate" (shine and density of a vintage studio plate reverb) for both channels.
Reverb Time: Adjusts the length of the reverb tail from short to long.
H.P. Filter (High Pass Filter): Trim pot to roll off low-end frequencies (25Hz to 180Hz) for increased definition in a mix.
Brilliance: Trim pot to adjust higher frequencies, offering brighter/sharper or warmer/mellow tones.
Master: Controls the overall volume of the amplifier.
Bluetooth Connectivity:
- Discoverable Mode (slow LED flash): Press and hold the Bluetooth switch to pair a new device. The amplifier appears as "SONNET BT." An audible tone confirms successful connection.
- Scanning Mode (fast LED flash): Press the Bluetooth switch once to reconnect previously paired devices. The amplifier scans for devices within range, starting with the most recently connected. An audible tone confirms successful reconnection.
- To disconnect, press and hold the Bluetooth switch for 3 seconds or switch off Bluetooth on the external device.
USB Audio Socket (Type B): Connects to a computer for recording. Uses standard audio drivers (no specific drivers required). Connect via a main USB port for low latency.
Ground Lift: Switch to remove the circuit-to-chassis ground connection of the XLR output, helping to eliminate hum or noise when connecting to external devices.
Mix D.I. XLR Output: Low impedance, balanced XLR output for connecting to a mixer or stage box. Sends a strong, low-noise signal, including all front panel processing (except master volume).
MP3 / Line In (Stereo Mini Jack): Connects audio devices for playing along. Mixes incoming stereo signal to mono output.
Footswitch (Optional): Connects an FS-17 or any 2-way latching footswitch. One switch mutes the amplifier, the other defeats reverb on both channels.
Tilt-back Stand: Adjustable threaded stand socket on the base for desired tilt angle.
SA-2 Stand Adaptor (Optional): Mounts on the Sonnet 60 to place the amplifier on a speaker stand.

Maintenance Features:

Safety Instructions: Emphasizes reading and following all instructions, heeding warnings, and not exposing the apparatus to water, rain, or moisture.
Cleaning: Clean only with a dry cloth.
Ventilation: Do not block ventilation openings; install in accordance with manufacturer's instructions.
Heat Sources: Do not install near radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other heat-producing apparatus.
Power Cord Protection: Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched.
Servicing: Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Do not open the equipment case as there are no user-serviceable parts inside.
Power Cord: Use only the supplied power cord compatible with local mains voltage. Handle carefully and replace if damaged. Never break off the earth (ground) pin. Unplug when unused for long periods.
Fuses: Always replace damaged fuses with the correct rating and type.
Condensation: Allow the unit to reach room temperature before switching on if moved from a cold environment.
Earthing: Apparatus with Class I construction should be connected to a mains socket outlet with a protective earthing connection.
Mains Plug Accessibility: The mains plug of the power supply cord should remain readily accessible.
Hearing Protection: High loudspeaker levels can cause permanent hearing damage. Wear hearing protection if continuously exposed to high levels.
Disposal: All electrical and electronic products should be disposed of separately via designated collection facilities.