Shenandoah 100 Manual Genz Benz Acoustic Amp Owner’s Shen 100m

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OWNERS MANUAL

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION – The Shenandoah™ Acoustic 100 is configured as a 2 channel – 4 input 100
watt acoustic instrument amplifier. Each channel is equipped with both a ¼” unbalanced line input and an XLR
balanced microphone input (with phantom power). The 2 inputs on each channel are summed (mixed) together at a
1:1 ratio. Each channel then passes through independent 3 band equalizers with a sweepable midrange frequency.
Equalization centers were carefully selected for use with acoustic instruments. Each channel also contains
individual send controls to the on-board Alesis® 15 program digital effects circuit. The channel signals are then
summed together, mixed with the digital effects return and passed on to the internal 100 watt power amplifier. The
back panel contains 3 direct balanced outputs with ground lift switch, 3 unbalanced line outputs, an effects loop,
effects cancel jack, fan on/off switch and 2-1/4” speaker jacks.

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FRONT PANEL
INPUTS – The Shenandoah™ Acoustic 100 is equipped with 2 types of input jacks. The ¼” input is unbalanced
and “line level” with a useable sensitivity from 100 mV to 1 volt. The input impedance is 150 k ohms. The ¼” input
will also accept most active balanced line sources, automatically unbalancing them by recognizing the tip portion of
the balanced signal. Additionally, the precision input scaling preamp contains a 50 Hz, 12 dB/octave high pass filter
(more effective and less intrusive than the more common 6 dB filters) and an “RFI” filter (radio frequency
interference) to eliminate unwanted noise. The XLR input jack is balanced and “microphone level”, with a useable
sensitivity from –60dBv to –30 dBv. It contains a precision full range differential microphone preamp with phantom
power.

COMBINING XLR & ¼” INPUTS – A unique feature of the Shenandoah™ Acoustic 100 is the ability to mix
the XLR balanced and ¼” unbalanced inputs on each channel. In many situations, this effectively makes the
amplifier function as a 4 channel amplifier. The most effective way to use this feature is to set the volume on the
channel using the XLR microphone input and then adjusting the level control on the instrument itself (assuming that
it has one) to blend levels between the 2 inputs. Equalization will be common to both inputs on the channel.
PHANTOM POWER – An internal phantom power source (13.6 volts) is provided for use with condenser mics.
This power source is on at all times and does not affect the standard operation of the amp, even when a condenser
mic is not used. We use the DIN 45-596-P12 volt standard which will operate virtually all of the live sound
reinforcement condenser microphones on the market. Some “boutique” externally biased condenser mics will not
be compatible and will require 48 volt phantom power. We suggest live sound condenser mics by: AKG (C4500B,
4000B , etc.), Audio Technica (AT3035, 3032, Pro Series ,etc.), CAD, Shure and Crown.
ON-BOARD ALESIS® DIGITAL EFFECTS – The Shenandoah™ Acoustic 100 contains a genuine Alesis®
15 program digital effects processor. Unlike other amplifier manufacturer’s built-in digital effect units, we chose to
use an industry leader in processing with an undisputed reputation for realistic, high quality effects algorithms. Level
differences are normal when switching between different effects; just adjust the send and master levels accordingly.
The effects level control on each channel adjusts the send level to both the digital effects processor and the ¼”
effects send jack on the back panel. The digital effects level in the master section only controls the effects return
level from the on-board processor.

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BACK PANEL
EFFECTS LOOP—A parallel effects loop is provided so an out-board effects processor can be used with or in
place of the on-board ALESIS® DSP unit. The return level from an external processor into the ¼” effects return jack
should be adjusted using the controls of the external processor. A ¼” effects cancel jack is provided on the back
panel to mute both internal and external effects via footswitch. Any standard single button latching footswitch (with
shielded cable) may be used. Signal is muted when the switch is closed. The on-board effects can be turned off by
using the program labeled “bypass”. All other on-board effects on the Shenandoah™ Acoustic 100 can be used in
conjunction with an out-board effects unit plugged into the effects loop.
ACTIVE EQUALIZATION – Each channel of the Shenandoah™ Acoustic 100 contains a separate 3 band (with
sweep mid) active equalizer. These equalizers, similar to those found on professional sound consoles, are very
useful tools when used correctly. The corner frequency of the low frequency section is 125 Hz, shelving curve. This
frequency is particularly handy when dealing with low frequency feedback from a big dreadnaught guitar. A
combination of volume reduction and turning down the low frequency control will generally get good results.
Become familiar with the action of the controls since their effective gain range is quite large. The low frequency
control is also handy for adding some “bottom” to a baritone sax and “chunk” to a mandolin or mando-cello. The
corner frequency of the high frequency section is 8 kHz, shelving curve. This frequency is especially useful for
taming the bright harshness of some mandolins, violins, brass and reeds. It can also be used to help acoustic
guitars, cellos and flutes cut through other players in loud club situations. The “sweep mid” section features 12 dB
of cut or boost with a bandwidth approximately 1 octave wide. The center frequency of this filter is continuously
user adjustable from 250 Hz to 5 kHz with a single control. This filter is typically (but not always) used to reduce or
remove offending frequencies in the instrument’s pick-up response. Removing only the minimum amount necessary
will yield the most acoustically rewarding results. The easiest and most repeatable way to determine the
offending frequency range is to boost the mid level somewhat (but not to the point of feedback) and while playing,
sweep the frequency control slowly across its range. You may need a third hand until it becomes second nature, but
soon you will find out just how quick it can be. You will hear a clear and obvious accentuation of the ugliness you
want to remove. The ear is a most sensitive and discriminating piece of test equipment when used in this manner,
another good reason to protect them! This is the way many touring sound engineers equalize, since it is quick,
accurate and repeatable. Occasionally, you will find need to use the mid section in “boost” mode, particularly
common when adding higher mids (bite) to an otherwise dull instrument, or adding low mid “body” to an otherwise
thin sound. Spend some time experimenting so that the process becomes creative as well as corrective.

MASTER VOLUME – The master volume control adjusts the overall volume of channel 1, channel 2 and the
effects return (either on-board or digital). Typically, best results are obtained when this control is operated between
the 9:00 o’clock and 3:00 o’clock positions.
DIRECT OUTPUTS – The Shenandoah™ Acoustic 100 contains the most comprehensive direct output section
available on any acoustic instrument amplifier. Both XLR balanced and ¼” unbalanced outputs make “real world
sense” when connecting with other equipment. The ¼” unbalanced outputs are true professional line level (+4 dBv)
with an output impedance of 1k ohm, and can drive virtually any line level input, including power amplifiers. The XLR
balanced output is “hot” mic level, rated at –30 dBv. This configuration allows the Shenandoah™ Acoustic 100 to
drive very long cable lengths (250+ feet) without problems or added noise. The XLR balanced direct outputs can be
“ground lifted” with the global ground lift switch. This switch lifts pin 1 on all of the XLR balanced outputs to break
ground any loops between the Shenandoah™ Acoustic 100 and a PA system. Separate Channel 1 and Channel 2
outputs are post channel volume/pre effects (to take advantage of the dual inputs on each channel) while the
Channel 1+2 output is post master volume/post eq/post effects to aid in sending a “finished” mixed signal to a PA
system or external power amplifier.
POWER AMPLIFIER – The Shenandoah™ Acoustic 100 contains an advanced monolithic power amplifier
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circuit that is completely protected against overloads, short circuits and thermal faults. Output is rated at 100 watts
into 4 ohms, with excellent overload recovery characteristics. A unique feature of this amplifier is the “on silicon”
temperature sensor that automatically tracks and adjusts the amplifier’s operating and protection parameters, a very
cool feature the increases product reliability 10-fold over conventional designs.

FAN COOLING – A rear mounted fan is provided for exceptional thermal cooling of the power amp. A fan switch
is provided to disengage the fan if desired. It is recommended, but not necessary, to use the fan when only
operating the Shen-100 combo. Using the fan is recommended when powering an 8 ohm extension cabinet with the
combo or when operating the combo in a hot environment.

TWEETER LEVEL CONTROL – The “rocker switch” tweeter level control provides three positions for
additional acoustic flexibility. The positions are: On, Off and –6db.

SPEAKER OUTPUT JACKS – The Shenandoah™ Acoustic 100 provides 2 parallel ¼” speaker output jacks.
Minimum total load is 4 ohms (2 x 8 ohm speaker cabinet or 1 x 4 ohm speaker cabinet). Combo versions of the
Shenandoah™ Acoustic 100 are factory equipped with our GBE 1230, 12” speaker and a compression bullet tweeter
presenting an 8 ohm load to the amplifier.

POWER INPUT – The Shenandoah™ Acoustic 100 is shipped from the factory with a standard IEC type power
inlet connector and the appropriate power cable for the market the amplifier was shipped to. The power transformer
is a universal input (115/230 volt, 50/60 Hz) with a voltage selector switch located above the inlet connector. Be sure
that this switch is in the correct position (matching your local power system) BEFORE connecting the Shenandoah to
the power source. There is an AC mains fuse (with a spare fuse included!) located in the small slide out tray on the
IEC power inlet connector. Always replace with the correct value fuse as indicated on the fuse chart located on the
back of the amplifier.

BOTTOM MOUNTED TILT-BACK HANDLE – This feature allows the cabinet to be tipped up towards the
performer. This also can change the tone of the amp and reduce boomy low frequencies.

SPEAKER STAND MOUNT – A 1 1/2” speaker stand mount is provided for use with a speaker stand.
CAUTION!
•
•
•

Never set an amplifier on anything that will tip over or collapse under its weight.
These amplifiers are capable of producing sound pressure levels that may cause hearing loss.
There are no user serviceable parts inside these units. Always consult a qualified repair facility for service.

WARNING!
•

•

•

The use and operation of this device constitutes an agreement of full release of any and all liability
connected with its use. Only persons familiar with the operation of high-powered audio equipment should
attempt to operate this device.
In addition, by use of this device, the user agrees to hold Genz Benz Enclosures, Inc. and it’s designers,
sales agents and all other affiliates and related parties harmless in the event of any accident, injury, damage
or loss resulting from such use.
Manufacturer’s sole responsibility is to provide a warranty on the specified performance of the product under
normal operating conditions for a period of 3 years.

WARRANTY:
•

•
•
•
•
•

Genz Benz Enclosures, Inc. warrants the model Shenandoah™ Acoustic 100 to be free from defects in
materials and workmanship for a period of 3 years from the date of purchase, when purchased from an
authorized Genz Benz dealer.
This warranty does not cover normal wear and tear incurred from the normally designed use of the product.
This warranty is effective only if a copy of the original sales receipt is presented at the time of warranty
service
This limited warranty is completely transferable to any subsequent buyer as long as the original sales receipt
is also transferred to such subsequent buyer.
All warranty service must be performed by a Genz Benz authorized service center.
Before returning any unit for service, a returned merchandise authorization number (RMA#) must be
obtained by calling 480-941-0705.
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SHENANDOAH™ ACOUSTIC 100
ENGINEERING SPECIFICATIONS
INPUTS
XLR Balanced input impedance:
XLR Balanced input sensitivity:
¼” Unbalanced input impedance:
¼” Unbalanced input sensitivity:

2.2 k ohms
-60 to –30 dBV
150 k ohms
-30 to +4 dBV

AMPLIFIER OUTPUT
Power at 8 ohm load:
Power at 4 ohm load:
THD + N (preamp):
THD + N (power amp):
Frequency response:

70 watts RMS
100 watts RMS
<0.02%
<0.05%
20 Hz – 20 kHz +/- 1dB

CHANNEL EQUALIZATION
Low frequency:
Mid frequency (sweep):
High frequency:

125 Hz shelving, +/-15dB
250 Hz – 5 kHz , peaking, +/-12dB
8 kHz shelving, +/-15dB

DIRECT OUTPUTS
XLR balanced output level:
XLR balanced output impedance:
¼” unbalanced output level:
¼” unbalanced output impedance:

-30 dBV nominal
150 ohms
+4 dBv nominal
1 k ohm

EFFECTS LOOP
¼” unbalanced output level:
¼” unbalanced output impedance:
¼” unbalanced input level:
¼” unbalanced input impedance:
¼” effects cancel jack:

-10 dBV
1 k ohm
-10 dBV
47 k ohm
short T-S cancels return

DIGITAL EFFECTS
Processor type:
Internal processing:
A/D converter:
D/A converter:
Dynamic Range:
THD + N (1 kHz):
Sampling rate:

Alesis® DSP engine
24 bit
24 bit – 64X oversampling
24 bit – 128X oversampling
80 dB
<0.01%
48 kHz

INTERNAL PRESET EFFECTS PROGRAMS:
3 – Plate Reverbs
3 – Room Reverbs
2 – Hall Reverbs
1 – Rotary Effect
1 – Chorus/Room
1 – Chorus/Plate
1 – Chorus
1 – Flange
2 – Delays (long and short)
1 – Bypass
Due to continuing product improvements and changes, all specifications are subject to change without notice

5

Declaration of Conformity
(89/336 EEC-EMC Directive)
Manufacturer’s Name:
Manufacturer’s Address:

Genz Benz, a division of Kaman Music
7811 East Pierce Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85287, U.S.A.

Product Type:
Model Number:
Operating Power Condition:
Effective Date:

Audio Amplifier
Shenandoah 100 (all versions)
115/230 V, 50/60 Hz
01-01-2006

Conforms to the Following Standards:

[X]
[X]
[X]
[X]
[X]
[X]
[X]
[X]
[X]
[ ]
[X]
[X]

EN 55013: 2001 + A1: 2003
EN 55020: 2002 + A1: 2003
EN 60065
IEC 61000-3.2: 2000
IEC 61000-3.3: 1994 + A1: 2001
IEC 61000-4.2
IEC 61000-4.3
IEC 61000-4.4
FCC 47CFR Part 15-B, Class B
RoHS Directive 2002/95/EC
WEEE Directive 2002/96/EC
CE Mark LV Directive 73/23 EEC

7811 E. Pierce St. Scottsdale, AZ 85257
PH: 480-941-0705 FAX: 480-946-2412
www.genzbenz.com
A Kaman Music Company, Bloomfield, CT

6



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