Quicksilver GLA - User Manual

This device has very high internal voltages. Never operate with the bottom removed!
Never operate your amplifers with the speakers disconnected.
To prolong the life of your amplifiers, never turn them on and off within a short period of time
(45 seconds.)
Thank you for purchasing a Quicksilver Audio GLA. This unit was designed to be simple and reliable and
to give wonderful sound quality at a reasonable price. We at Quicksilver are confident you will enjoy it!
ALLOW ADEQUATE VENTILATION
The amplifier should be placed where it will have plenty of air circulation.
SPEAKER CONNECTION
Screw terminals are used for speaker connections because of their superior sonic performance.
The output transformer wires are silver soldered directly to the screw strips eliminating any
output wiring. The connection to the 4 or 8 ohm tap will be determined by the rating on the back
of your speaker system. The 1 ohm tap is for special applications only.
INITIAL TURN-ON
Insert the tubes in their proper sockets. Connect the amp into the system and turn it on. The
amplifier is self-biasing so no adjustments are necessary. You should, however, be sure to
purchase D.C. matched output tubes.
FUSE BLOWING
If the 4 amp (slo-blo) fuse blows, replace it with no larger than a 4 amp fuse. A 3 amp fuse can also
be used. If the fuse continues to blow an output tube could be damaged; or there may be other
problems, such as poor system grounding, an unstable preamp, a shorted speaker, etc. Inter-
changing the cables between channels can help determine if the problem is in the system or in the
amp.
TROUBLE SHOOTING
Important - Never operate the amp with less than 3 output tubes.
If the sound from one channel is distorted and you suspect the amp, switch output tubes between
channels to determine if an output tube is bad.
TUBE REPLACEMENT
The GLA is sold with matched EL34 output tubes; but 6550s or KT88s can also be used; however
all 4 tubes must be the same type. Output tubes must be replaced as a matched pair and should
be purchased through Quicksilver Audio or a Quicksilver dealer. Quicksilver output tubes are
“burned-in” for 10 hours prior to matching, and their performance is guaranteed.
Other tubes in the GLA should be replaced only with the same type and brand originally in the
amplifier.
Quicksilver Audio GLA (Great Little Amp) Amplifier
Operating Instructions

Quicksilver GLA Specifications

General

Brand	Quicksilver
Model	GLA
Category	Amplifier
Language	English

Summary

Operating Instructions

Allow Adequate Ventilation

The amplifier should be placed where it will have plenty of air circulation for optimal performance and longevity.

Speaker Connection

Utilizes screw terminals for superior sonic performance, connecting to 4 or 8 ohm taps based on speaker rating.

Initial Turn-On Procedure

Insert tubes, connect amp, and power on. Amplifier is self-biasing; use DC matched output tubes for best results.

Fuse Blowing Troubleshooting

Replace 4A fuse with no larger than 4A. Repeated blowing may indicate tube damage or system grounding issues.

Troubleshooting Output Channels

If one channel distorts, switch output tubes between channels to identify a potentially bad tube.

Tube Replacement Guidelines

Use matched EL34, 6550s, or KT88s output tubes. All four must be the same type and purchased as a matched pair.

Component Identification Diagram

Amplifier Layout

Diagram illustrating the placement of power transformer, output transformer, tubes, speaker terminals, and input connectors.

Product Information

Special Features Overview

Hand-wired design with no circuit boards or transistors, gold-plated jacks, and 60W output transformers for longevity.

Technical Specifications

Details power output, bandwidth, input sensitivity, impedance, tube complement, dimensions, and weight.

Warranty Details

Provides a 1-year warranty on parts and labor (90 days on tubes), excluding shipping and misuse damage.