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Important warnings regarding electrical shock, operation, and hearing protection.
Explains the Mode and Level controls for selecting and adjusting digital sound effects.
Explains how the 32-position Mode control selects effects and remembers settings per channel.
Diagram showing the flow of signals from input to speakers, including DSP integration.
Details output power, gain, tone control range, and signal-to-noise ratio.
Lists driver tube type, output device, impedance, speaker details, and dimensions.
Covers AC power requirements, fuse ratings, and cabinet cleaning instructions.
The Crate GT-80DSP QuadraDrive™ is a versatile and compact guitar amplifier designed for musicians seeking a wide range of tonal options and digital sound processing capabilities. This amplifier stands out with its unique combination of tube and solid-state preamps, dual channels, and an intuitive digital effects section, all housed in a robust, American-made unit.
The GT-80DSP QuadraDrive™ is an 80-watt RMS guitar amplifier featuring a Tube Driven Mosfet power amplifier, a Crate exclusive that avoids the harsh "square wave" distortion often associated with traditional solid-state output devices. This design ensures a warm, natural sound, whether clean or overdriven.
The amplifier offers two completely separate channels: Rhythm and Lead. Each channel boasts independent Gain controls, 3-band EQs (Low, Mid, High), and Level controls, allowing for precise tone shaping. A key feature is the choice between Tube and Solid State preamps for both the Rhythm and Lead channels, effectively providing four distinct gain controls: Tube Lead, Solid State Lead, Tube Rhythm, and Solid State Rhythm. This flexibility allows users to dial in a vast array of sounds, from crisp, ultra-tight solid-state rhythm tones to bluesy tube crunch, and from traditional Crate Mega-Gain hard rock sizzle to screaming, tube-driven lead distortion with ample sustain.
The integrated Digital Sound Processing (DSP) section is a significant highlight, offering 31 preset effects, including various delays, reverbs, gated outputs, and unique "backwards" sounds. A notable feature of the DSP is its ability to "remember" settings for each of the four preamp and channel combinations. This means that as you switch between Tube/Solid State preamps and Rhythm/Lead channels, the amplifier automatically recalls the previously selected DSP effect for that specific combination.
For enhanced control, the GT-80DSP supports footswitch operation for channel and preamp selection, as well as DSP effects control. When a footswitch is connected, it overrides the front panel switches for these functions. The DSP also allows for two different Mode settings per channel/preamp combination when using a footswitch, providing up to eight instantly accessible effects for maximum flexibility. The amplifier's memory is non-volatile, ensuring that all programmed settings are retained even after the unit is powered off.
The amplifier includes an Effects Loop with 1/4" Line Out and Line In jacks, enabling the connection of external signal processors such as digital delays or echo units. The Line Out jack provides a pre-amplified, post-EQ signal, suitable for connecting to an external amplifier, mixer, recording console, or other devices. The Line In jack sends a line-level signal directly to the GT-80DSP's internal power amplifier. An External Speaker jack allows for connecting an additional speaker in series with the internal 12" speaker, expanding the sound projection.
The front panel of the GT-80DSP is intuitively laid out for ease of use. The INPUT jack is where you connect your guitar with a shielded instrument cable.
The LEAD GAINS section includes:
The CHANNEL pushbutton switch selects between the Lead (IN position) and Rhythm (OUT position) channels, with corresponding LEDs (#3 and #14 for Lead, #9 and #19 for Rhythm) providing visual feedback.
The TUBE/SOLID STATE pushbutton switch selects between the Tube (IN position) and Solid State (OUT position) preamps for the active channel. The TUBE LED glows orange when the tube section is selected.
The RHYTHM GAINS section includes:
Both Lead and Rhythm channels have dedicated 3-band EQ sections:
Each channel also has a LEVEL control to adjust its output volume into the power amp. This also affects the signal level for the Line Out jack.
The DIGITAL SOUND PROCESSOR (DSP) section features:
The rear panel provides essential connectivity:
The Crate GT-80DSP is designed for durability and reliability. The cabinet is covered with a black Tolex material (or black Ozite for the GT-80DSPS model). To maintain its appearance, the manual recommends wiping the cabinet clean with a damp, lint-free cloth to remove dirt and road film. It is crucial to avoid spraying cleaning agents directly onto the cabinet and to steer clear of abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the finish.
For internal maintenance, the manual explicitly states that there are no user-serviceable parts inside and refers all servicing to qualified service personnel. This is a critical safety precaution to prevent electrical shock and ensure the longevity of the unit. In case of a blown fuse, it must be replaced ONLY with the same size and type (2.5A 120V slo-blow fuse). If fuses blow repeatedly, the AC source should be checked, and if it's okay, the Crate dealer should be contacted for service.
The amplifier is designed and engineered to provide years of safe and reliable operation. Users are advised to follow precautionary guidelines, such as not opening the chassis, not defeating the power cord's ground pin, and connecting only to properly grounded AC power outlets. The unit should not be exposed to rain or moisture to reduce the risk of fire or electric shock.
Furthermore, the manual warns that the amplifier is capable of producing high sound pressure levels, and continued exposure can cause permanent hearing impairment or loss. User caution is advised, and ear protection is recommended if the unit is operated at high volume.
Crate continually strives to develop new products and improve existing ones, so the specifications and information in the manual are subject to change without notice.
General| Power Output | 80 Watts |
|---|---|
| Channels | 2 |
| Technology | Solid State |
| Effects | Digital effects processor |
| Type | Combo |
| Inputs | 1 x 1/4" |
| Outputs | 1 x 1/4" Headphone |
| EQ | 3-band EQ (Bass, Mid, Treble) |
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