1
From the Chairman
I would like to thank you personally for selecting the AS100D,
Acoustic Soloist combo.
The Marshall name has been associated with many fine products
over the years and our commitment to quality remains as constant
today as it did at the birth of Marshall Amplification, back in 1962.
In the case of the Acoustic Soloist amplifier range, much time and
research has gone into making their sound as natural as possible.
The design team, being guitarists, fully understand the needs of the
player and have brought their expertise fully to bear on these
products.
The AS100D also marks a significant milestone in Marshall
amplifier history as it was the first model to carry on board digital
effects, to give you the highest possible sound quality. You can also
rest assured that the Marshall hallmarks of design and engineering
excellence come as standard, ensuring that this amplifier will stand
the test of time, even after constant use.
I strongly suggest that you read this handbook carefully before
using your new amplifier, then keep it on hand for future reference.
I am certain that you will derive great enjoyment from your
Marshall Acoustic Soloist combo and wish you every success with it.
Yours Sincerely,
English
English
Introduction
The AS100D is a comprehensively featured 100 Watt combo amplifier, specially designed for use with a variety of
acoustic instruments. Between its four channels, this combo has the flexibility to handle instruments with piezo
transducers or magnetic pick-ups, plus microphones for both vocal and instrument reproduction. Its 2 x 50 Watt
stereo configuration gives you enough power to perform on stage with superb clarity, while the provision of a
balanced line out allows direct connection to an external PA system for larger concert venues.
The built-in digital effects add an entirely new dimension to the range of sounds available. If you want to add
further effects, then there is a parallel effects loop with level control.
One of the most difficult aspects of amplifying acoustic instruments is feedback. To help you eliminate this, the
AS100D features several ‘anti-feedback’ controls, including a Phase switch for each channel and frequency
controllable Notch Filters with selectable extra depth for channels 1 and 2. It also features a fourth channel suitable
for CD/MD, tape player or a drum machine if needed.
For clear and detailed performance, the AS100D is loaded with two 8" speakers and two high fidelity polymer dome
tweeters. There is also an internal limiter which allows you to push the maximum level from the stereo 50 Watt
output stage, whilst remaining distortion free.
Compact and portable, the AS100D offers great flexibility and is the ideal amplifier for the acoustic player who
wants the highest quality performance and natural tonal reproduction.
Channel 1 - Acoustic Instrument
1. Input Jack
This input will accept a normal mono jack lead
from a piezo transducer or magnetic pick-up.
Plug the lead from your guitar in here to connect
you to channel 1.
This is also a stereo input designed specially for
those acoustic instruments which feature a variety
of pickups (e.g. magnetic and transducer) fed
through a single stereo cable. In this mode the
signal from the ring of the stereo jack is
automatically routed through to channel 2 by
selecting the Link Ch 1 switch (item 11). This
allows separate pre-amp control for the two
different pick-ups.
2. Phase Switch
Reverses the phase of the signal to cut out
unwanted resonances caused by the instrument
and speakers being in phase.
Ensure that you test this in the position where you
will actually perform.
3. Gain Switch
Increases the amount of gain to the input and is
extremely useful for boosting the signal of pick-ups
with very low output levels.
4. Volume Control
Adjusts the volume level of channel 1.
5. Bass Control
Adjusts the amount of bottom end or bass in your
sound. Too much bass can cause unwanted
feedback, therefore care should be taken when
setting this control. The best position to start is 12
o’clock, then adjust from there as desired.
6. Parametric Mid Control
Cuts or boosts the mid-range of your sound. This
control works in conjunction with item 7 (mid
frequency control) to give the maximum possible
control over the all important mid-range of your
instrument’s tonal spectrum.
7. Mid Frequency Control
Adjusts the frequency of the mid-range control
(item 6).
8. Treble Control
Adjusts the high end or treble frequencies in your
tone. Again, care should be taken when setting this
control as too much treble will cause high pitched
feedback. The starting point of the 12 o’clock
position is best.
Channel 2 - Acoustic Instrument and
Microphone
9. Instrument Input
Mono jack input. Plug the lead from your guitar in
here to connect to channel 2 only.
Front Panel Features
The AS100D provides two separate pre-amps to capture the best sound out of your acoustic instrument.
Having two channels dedicated to acoustic instruments allows you to mix two types of commonly used pick-up
(piezo, magnetic or microphone), between either two mono jacks or a stereo jack.
