Summit Audio Model TD-100 Instrument Preamp and Tube Direct Box Operation Manual Summit Audio, Inc. P.O. Box 223306 Carmel, CA 93922 (831) 728-1302 email: sound@summitaudio.
Introduction The TD-100 is a single channel direct box and instrument preamp featuring a hybrid signal path utilizing a solid state output device and a 12AX7A/ECC83 vacuum tube. This unique combination of of solid state and vacuum tube technology gives the TD-100 the benefits of both worlds: the high reliability and long life of solid state and the warm overtones associated with vacuum tubes.
Front Panel Front Panel SIGNAL GROUND DRIVE SIGNAL LIFT TD-100 1M TUBE DIRECT - 24 0 POLARITY + 10K DIRECT OUT INPUT ON 2M LOADING INSTRUMENT PRE-AMP OFF OUTPUT GAIN Ground Lift Switch This two-position switch removes the third prong of the power cable from the circuit. Lifting the ground can sometimes reduce the hum caused by a ground loop in your audio system. Polarity Switch This switch changes the polarity of the outgoing signal.
Front Panel Loading Control This knob controls the loading or impedance for the instrument input. The impedance can be set from 10K ohms to 2M ohms. You can set this control to match the TD-100 to the impedance of your instrument or as a kind of tone control. In practical use you’ll set this control to get the sound you like best. Signal LED This green LED lights to indicate a proper level at the input. Drive LED This amber LED lights to indicate clipping on the input.
Rear Panel Rear Panel CLASS A -TUBE INSTRUMENT PRE-AMP MODEL TD-100 20 WATTS MAX FUSE PHONES 115V 50/60 HZ BALANCED OUTPUTS LINE PIN2+ MIC SUMMIT AUDIO INC. CARMEL, CA USA A.C. Receptacle The TD-100 is factory wired for either 100, 115 or 230 Volts AC. Before connecting AC power make sure the TD-100 is wired for the voltage used in your country. Headphone Output Use the TD-100 as a practice amp by inserting your headphones here.
Basic Operation Basic Operation Important: For proper operation of the TD-100 (or any vacuum tube device for that matter), allow the unit to warm up with power on for 15 minutes before use. Just Plug-in & Go 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Important: Do not block the cooling holes and allow adequate ventilation. 6 Summit Audio, Inc. Plug your instrument into the front panel input jack. Connect either the rear panel balanced Mic or Line output to the input of your mixer or recorder.
Applications Applications Live Sound A direct box or “DI” (direct input) is used to take a high impedance instrument signal and transform it into a balanced, low impedance output. In the example below, the Direct Output feeds the Bass Amp and the low impedance, balanced microphone output is sent to the mixing console.
Applications Using the TD-100 as an Instrument Preamp You can use the TD-100 to go directly to your recording device for an ultra-quiet sound. The output is already amplified so there’s no need to re-route through your mixer. The line level output of the TD-100 is ideal for interfacing with any other effects you wish to use. Balanced To Recorder Input 8 Summit Audio, Inc.
Applications Using the TD-100 and TLA-50 together For a great bass or guitar channel, try using the Summit Audio TD-100 instrument preamp and tube direct box in conjunction with the TLA-50. Plug your instrument into the front panel of the TD-100 and run an XLR or 1/4" cable from the output of the TD-100 to the input of the TLA-50.
Circuit Explanation Circuit Explanation INSTRUMENT INPUT 12AX7A AMPLIFIER IMPEDANCE GAIN DIRECT OUTPUT DIFFERENTIAL OUTPUT Signal Present Tip Peak Hold The Instrument Input to the TD-100 is directly connected to the Direct Output. The Impedance control sets the input impedance of the first stage input. The Impedance control can be used to match the impedance of the instrument and to provide subtle tonal coloration.
Electrical Connections Electrical Connections Input Unbalanced 1/4” jack Sleeve - - Ground Tip - - - - (+) Signal Output Balanced 1/4” jack Balanced 3-pin XLR Sleeve - - Ground Tip - - - - (+) Signal Ring - - - -(-) Signal Pin 1 - - Ground Pin 2 - - (+) Signal Pin 3 - - (-) Signal Model TD-100 Tube Direct Box 11
Specifications Specifications Circuit Topology High-voltage Class A Gain Switched 6dB steps, maximum gain +24dBu (at 1/4” TRS output) Maximum Output Level (Class A) +24 dBu. The outputs are electronically balanced or unbalanced. XLR type (pin 2 hot), 1/4” balanced TRS (Neutrik) Input Input impedance is variable from 10KΩ to 2MΩ. Maximum input level is +24dBu unbalanced. Noise 20kHz unweighted -121 dBu minimum gain position Distortion THD, IMD 0.07% at +10 dBu Frequency Response -/+0.
Specifications Power Internal AC Supply 20 watts 115 volts 50 or 60 Hz Fuse size is .5 amp, slo-blo for 100/115 V Fuse size is .25 amp, slo-blo at 230 V Dimensions W: 8.5”, H: 1.75”, D: 8.5” (Two units fit side by side on a standard one-space rack shelf.) Weight 7 pounds (3.
Summit Audio, Inc. P.O. Box 223306 Carmel, CA 93922 web page: www.summitaudio.com email: sound@summitaudio.com Please fill in and mail your warranty card today. We would like to know a little bit about you. We will provide periodic updates, links, announcements and even free stuff. Be sure to include your email address if you have one. Thanks. TD-100 Op Rev.
