The Fender BXR 100 is a bass amplifier designed to provide a wide range of musical sounds for various playing styles, from traditional to contemporary. It is part of the FENDER BXR series and was developed with input from professional bass players.
Function Description:
The BXR 100 features a preamp section with two inputs of differing sensitivities to accommodate a variety of input sources and levels. Input 1 is a high impedance, high sensitivity plug-in connection suitable for most instruments, handling up to 2.5 volts R.M.S. Input 2 is recommended for basses with active pickups, handling up to 5 volts R.M.S.
The amplifier includes several tone-shaping controls:
- DEEP switch: Boosts and extends the low-frequency response.
- NOTCH switch: Removes midrange frequencies, creating a "punchy" sound suitable for "thump and pluck" playing.
- BRIGHT switch: Adds high-frequency "sparkle."
- GAIN control: Adjusts the preamplifier's gain. This works in conjunction with the VOLUME control to allow for various pickups, from high-impedance low-level acoustic pickups to high-output active pickups. Higher GAIN settings are typically used with low-level pickups, while lower GAIN settings are used with "hotter" pickups, maximizing headroom and minimizing noise.
- 4-band EQ: Provides up to 12 decibels of boost or cut in four bands between 80 Hz and 6KHz.
- LOW shelving control: Adjusts the low part of the frequency spectrum, where the deep "fundamentals" reside.
- HIGH shelving control: Adjusts the high part of the frequency spectrum, adding "sparkle" to the sound when turned up.
- GRAPHIC EQUALIZER: Offers precise adjustment of tonal characteristics with 12 dB boost or cut to narrow bands of frequencies centered at 80, 150, 300, 570, 1.1k, 2.1k, and 4kHz. The 80, 150, and 300 Hz controls are for adjusting the low, mid, and high fundamental notes of the bass, while the 570, 1.1k, 2.1k, and 4k controls allow for timbre control.
- VOLUME control: Adjusts the signal level from the pre-amplifier section. It is recommended to set the VOLUME control as high as possible for maximum DELTACOMP™ compressor range.
The BXR 100 also includes several connectivity options:
- PREAMP OUT jack: Provides an unbalanced mono output signal from the preamp. This can be used as a patch point for mono effects devices, to provide a signal to a recording or sound reinforcement mixer, or to drive another BXR 100 as a slave amp.
- POWER AMP IN jack: An unbalanced input that goes directly into the power amp, automatically disconnecting the preamp when used. This is useful for effects loops or when using the BXR 100 as a slave amp.
- HEADPHONES output jack: Allows for private listening with stereo headphones, automatically muting the internal speaker.
- LINE OUT jack: A quasi-balanced output derived from the speaker, operating at line level. It is post-power amp, meaning it is affected by the DELTACOMP™ adaptive compressor. The jack is wired TIP (+), RING (-), and SLEEVE ground, and connecting it to a balanced input can reduce hum caused by ground loops.
The power amplifier section is designed for reliable service and features the exclusive DELTACOMP™ adaptive compressor system, which makes it practically impossible to clip (distort) the power amplifier. The compressor has a short apparent release time, minimizing distortion at low frequencies. The amplifier incorporates a highly efficient, computer-designed, turned port cabinet.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Power Output: 100 watts R.M.S.
- Rated Load Impedance: 8 Ohms
- Distortion at 100 watts: Less than .1% @ 1kHz (below compression); less than 1% @ 1kHz (maximum compression).
- Power Amplifier Sensitivity: 1.03 volts R.M.S.
- Power Amplifier Input Impedance: 22 k Ohms
- DELTACOMP™ Range: 20 dB
- Preamp Input Impedance: Input 1: Greater than 420k Ohms (typically greater than 1 megaohm in the passband); Input 2: 136k Ohms.
- Preamp Sensitivity for 100 W (GAIN and VOLUME at maximum, all tone controls at "O" detent, no enhancement activated): Input 1: 13mV; Input 2: 26mV.
- Shelving Tone Controls: LOW +/- 12 dB at 60 Hz; HIGH +/- 12 dB at 10kHz.
- Graphic Equalizer: +/- 12 dB at 80, 150, 300, 570, 1.1k, 2.1k, and 4kHz.
- Speaker: 15" Fender Special Design (P/N 040580).
- Physical Dimensions: Height: 25-1/2 inches (64.8 cm); Width: 21-1/2 inches (54.6 cm); Depth: 13-1/2 inches (34.3 cm).
- Weight: 64 lbs. (29.1 kg).
- Power Requirements:
- 120V Version (22-4401): 120VAC, 60 Hz, 2.4 A Max.
- 230V Version (22-4461): 230VAC, 50 Hz, 1.25 A Max.
Usage Features:
- Two Inputs: Accommodates various instruments and pickup types.
- Comprehensive Tone Shaping: DEEP, NOTCH, BRIGHT switches, GAIN, LOW/HIGH shelving, and a 7-band graphic equalizer offer extensive control over the amplifier's sound.
- Effects Loop/Slaving Capability: PREAMP OUT and POWER AMP IN jacks allow for external effects processing or connecting multiple BXR 100 amps.
- Private Practice: HEADPHONES jack mutes the speaker for silent practice.
- Direct Recording/PA Connection: Quasi-balanced LINE OUT provides a "hum-free" connection to recording or sound reinforcement equipment.
- Thermal Protection: The amplifier has a thermal switch that will shut it off if it overheats, protecting the output devices.
Maintenance Features:
- Covering Care: The vinyl covering can be cleaned with a very light, soapy solution on a sponge to remove dirt and residue. Care should be taken not to let liquid come into contact with operating surfaces. The power cord should be unplugged before cleaning.
- Power Cord: The amplifier is equipped with a grounding-type supply cord to reduce shock hazard. It must be connected to a grounded AC receptacle with the correct voltage and frequency as shown on the rear panel. The three-prong plug should not be altered.
- Ventilation: The rear panel should not be blocked to ensure proper airflow and prevent overheating.
- Troubleshooting Checklist: A basic checklist is provided for common issues, including checking power connections, control knob settings, instrument volume, and guitar cable. If problems persist, users are advised to consult a FENDER Service Dealer.
- No User Serviceable Parts: Users are warned that there are no user-serviceable parts inside the unit, and all servicing should be referred to qualified personnel.
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