Peavey CS-400 User Manual

OPERATING GUIDE
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The field proven CS-400 ™ has been designed for commercial duty amplification where performance, reliability and long life are foremost
requirements. Over the years, Peavey has continually refined the circuitry of the CS-400 ™ using the latest advances in circuit design technique and
semiconductors. In this reliable high performance unit, we have combined the latest in high slew rate integrated circuits in the front end with the
most rugged high-speed power transistors available in the output. The electronic sophistication and the unique modular packaging together with a
completely prefabricated wiring harness, constitute a system featuring performance, reliability and simplicity.
The CS-400 ™ utilizes a total of sixteen power transistors mounted on massive fan-cooled heatsinks. The CS-400’s ™ thermal system minimizes
stress on each output device by distributing the total load over a large number of output devices and the automatic two-speed forced air coolinq
system insures low operating temperatures in any given environment to assure long, trouble-free operation.
This potent package now features Peavey’s DDT (Distortion Detection Technique) compression circuitry that electronically senses the onset
of clipping and engages a specially designed circuit which virtually eliminates the possibility of driving the amplifier into distortion. Our many years of
field experience has proven that the main cause of speaker/driver failure is generally due to a system's power amplifier being overdriven, thus
supplying clipped wave form (square waves) to the speaker system. A square wave is generally very destructive to speaker systems for many
reasons, one being its extremely high D.C. content which greatly increases the average power delivered to the speaker, as well as the steep wave
fronts and high harmonic content of these signals. Our DDT compression circuit may be disengaged if desired by the push /pull switch whidh is the
integral part of the level control for each channel.
The CS-400 ™ features a unique patch system for each channel enabling the use of various plug-in accessories such as balanced input
transformers and electronic crossovers. Professional design, specifications and "in-process” quality checks combine to produce an amplifier with
honest performance at a reasonable price; but we don't stop here. We realize that even the most conservatively designed power amplifier will
occasionally fail. Such occurrences are indeed unfortunate, but the real loss is usually discovered later when it becomes apparent that the amplifier
failure has destroyed the speaker system. The Peavey CS-400 ™ has a built-in protection circuit in each channel to avoid this problem. A triac, the
device commonly used in light dimmers, is employed in an "electronic crowbar" circuit connected across the speaker terminals of each channel
Under normal signal conditions, including full power output down to 20 Hz, this circuit remains inoperative. However, with the advent of abnormal
D.C. voltages on the output terminals, the triac fires thereby placing a short circuit "electronic crowbar" across these terminals. This effectively
shunts any D.C. voltage harmless to ground rather than to the speaker system. This circuit is an electronic insurance policy. It’s there to protect the
speakers when they need it the most.
As a home hi-fi amplifier, the Peavey CS-400 ™ is an unmatched stereo power amp. However, a word of warning should be given concerning the
choice of the speaker system used. A true 200 watts per channel can easily destroy many home loudspeaker systems.
The operation of the CS-400 ™ is essentially straightforward and will present no difficulties in most applications. Our exclusive DDT
iCompression circuitry enables the total system to enjoy freedom from most of the commonly encountered headroom problems with power
amplifiers. The convenience of the rear patch panel, combined with the optional low cost plug-in accessories, give the CS-400 ™ unmatched
versatility. The CS-400 ™ continues to be one of the most competitive professional power amplifiers on the market on a dollar-per-watt /performance
basis. Professional specifications, components, the latest semiconductors and contemporary design make the CS-400 ™ the obvious choice for
demanding commercial/professional applications. Comparison of performance, features, construction, techniques and quality of components
with any of its competition will illustrate the excellence of this professional amplifier.
WARNING
TO PREVENT ELECTRICAL SHOCK OR FIRE HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE
TO RAIN OR MOISTURE. BEFORE USING THIS APPLIANCE, READ BACK COVER FOR
FURTHER WARNINGS.

Peavey CS-400 Specifications

General

Minimum Load Impedance (Stereo)	4 ohms
Input Impedance	20 kOhms
Frequency Response	20 Hz to 20 kHz
Total Harmonic Distortion	Less than 0.1%
Input Sensitivity	1.0V RMS for rated output
Signal to Noise Ratio	>100dB
Power Output	200 Watts RMS per channel at 4 Ohms

Summary

General Description

Installation and Connection

Industrial and Commercial Installation

Guidance for installing the amplifier in commercial environments, emphasizing rack mounting and ventilation.

Studio and Home Installation

Recommendations for mounting and placement in studio or home environments for optimal performance and cooling.

Input Connections

Details on connecting audio sources using rear panel jacks, emphasizing shielded cables for noise reduction.

Output Connections

Explains the available output connectors (phone jacks, binding posts) and recommended wire gauges for speaker connections.

Operation

DDT Compression

Explains the Distortion Detection Technique (DDT) compression system for maximizing amplifier performance and preventing clipping.

Clipping/Compression LED Indicator

Describes the function of the LED indicator for signaling compression or amplifier clipping events.

Input Sensitivity Controls

Explains how to set input sensitivity levels for optimal performance and to correlate with mixer output indicators.

Front Panel Controls

Details the ON/OFF switch, pilot lamp, fan speed selection, and high temperature indicator.

Mode Switch

Information on the rear panel mode switch, advising on stereo vs. bridge mode usage to prevent damage.

Patch Panel Overview

Details the flexible patch panel system for balanced inputs, crossovers, and various operational modes.

Bi-Amping Configuration

Explains the benefits and setup of bi-amplified systems using crossover modules and multiple amplifiers.

Bridge Mode Operation

Instructions for operating the amplifier in bridge mode for 70-volt line systems, including load connection details.

Specifications and Safety

Key Performance Specifications

Details frequency response, power output, distortion, impedance, and other technical parameters.

Safety and Operational Warnings

Covers critical warnings regarding noise exposure, electrical hazards, and proper usage.