Clearlink Receive

Overview
The CLEARLINK RECEIVE ISO/CONVERTER is the ultimate big stage solution for all instruments where signal must travel longer than 15 to 20 feet. It’s most common application is receiving a buffered signal through long cabling from its companion product–the CLEARLINK SEND–at the tail end of a Pedal Board and converting the XLR balanced signal that transmits back to a ¼” unbalanced signal appropriately matched for feeding an instrument amplifier. It can also be used to combat “Ground Loops” or for any isolation job where shared grounds create noise problems, such as a multi-amp switching setup, as well as any balanced XLR to ¼” unbalanced conversion. Along with Stage applications, the CLEARLINK RECEIVE is also well suited for the Studio, enabling a very long cable run from the Control Room to the Cutting Room, where an amplifier might be mic’d. This CLEARLINK features a Studio Quality Buffer circuit and Isolation Transformer, Ground Lift as well as Phase Flip switches rounding out its feature set for either of the previously mentioned scenarios. With the ability to isolate and convert from most pro signal sources, it’s a must-have for the gigging musician or Stage Tech. For the ultimate Tone protection in a Guitar rig, use a STOWAWAY™ before the Pedal Board, the CLEARLINK™ SEND at the end of it, and a CLEARLINK RECEIVE at your amplifier for the conversion and total reclamation of Tone.

Full Details

CLEARLINK™ RECEIVE ISO/CONVERTER FEATURES

• Made in Petaluma, California with the World’s Finest Materials
• Passive Design
• High Quality Jensen Audio Isolation Transformer
• Combination XLR/¼” Input accepts Balanced (XLR & TRS ¼”) or Unbalanced (TS ¼”) Inputs
• High-Performance Balanced to Unbalanced Signal Converter from drive-lines up to 330ft away
• ¼” Unbalanced Output is electrically isolated from the input, via the specially designed and shielded isolation transformer.
• Phase Switch - Inverts (reverses) the phase of the output signal in relation to the input signal.
• Ground Switch - Safely lifts (isolates) the ground connection between the IN and OUT jacks, eliminating ground loop hum and noise.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Maximum Input Level: +16dBu
• Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20kHz (-1dB)
• Total Harmonic Distortion: 0.002% (1kHz, +4dBu)
• CMRR (Common-Mode Rejection Ratio): 120dB (Bal. 60Hz, +4dBu)
• Weight: 0.512 lbs (232 g)
• Dimensions (W x D x H): 3.86 x 2.48 x 1.71 inch (98 x 63 x 44 mm)
• NOTE: Due to efforts for continual improvement, all specifications are subject to change without notice.

FAQs

Can I use the CLEARLINK™ RECEIVE as a DI-box?

• Sorry, but it’s not a direct-box.

Can I use the CLEARLINK™ RECEIVE for re-amping?

• Sorry, but it’s not a re-amp device.

What is “galvanic isolation” and does the CLEARLINK ™ RECEIVE have it?

• Galvanic isolation is another term used to describe two circuits that are electrically and physically separated from one another, in order to prevent a ground loop from occurring, which results in hum and noise. All audio isolation transformers have/provide it; some manufacturers choose to use the term and others don’t, and just go with “isolated” or “isolation”. It’s all the same, so yes, the CLEARLINK™ RECEIVE has “galvanic isolation”, and it is provided by a specially designed and shielded audio isolation transformer.

Can I connect pedals between the CLEARLINK™ RECEIVE and the input of my amplifier?

• You sure can, just remember to use a high quality shielded 1/4” TS instrument cable that is 5ft/1.5m long or less, between the CLEARLINK™ RECEIVE and the first pedal, in order to minimize high frequency roll-off.

Can I use the CLEARLINK™ RECEIVE without a CLEARLINK™ SEND to break a ground loop that is causing buzz, hum and noise?

• Yes, the CLEARLINK™ RECEIVE can be used with unbalanced guitar signals from a wide variety of pedals and other buffered devices, to safely eliminate ground loop hum and noise, and to correct phase reverse issues, making it a must-have tool for every guitar player and technician. Just remember to use a high quality shielded 1/4” TS instrument cable that is 5ft/1.5m long or less, between the CLEARLINK™ RECEIVE and the input of your amplifier, in order to minimize high-frequency roll-off.

I am running multiple amplifiers, each with a CLEARLINK ™ RECEIVE, but my tone (still) sounds weird, why is that?

• Running multiple amplifiers at once can sometimes lead to a phase cancellation problem, which results in a sound that can be described as hollow, thin, not as loud, lacking low end or fullness... The best way to test and fix this is to try and set the amplifiers to the same volume level, individually. Then activate the amplifiers simultaneously and listen with the PHASE switch of each CLEARLINK™ RECEIVE in both positions, all possible combinations - the best, correct settings will result in a sound that can be described as fuller or slightly louder.

I am running multiple amplifiers, each with a CLEARLINK ™ RECEIVE, but (one or) some of them (still) have a buzz/hum, how can I get rid of it?

• First, make sure that all the amplifiers are properly grounded with a 3-prong AC power-cord plug! Older amplifiers with 2-prong AC power-cord plugs should be checked for proper grounding, and if necessary, serviced before using them in a guitar rig. Defeating an amplifier’s safety ground may not only be ILLEGAL, but it may also pose a SHOCK or ELECTROCUTION HAZARD. That said, and as you’re probably already aware, the most common cause of buzz, hum, and noise when connecting multiple amplifiers in the same rig, is a ground loop. The isolation transformer inside the CLEARLINK™ RECEIVE and its GROUND switch, work together to safely eliminate a ground loop. With a CLEARLINK™ RECEIVE connected to the input of every amplifier in the rig, the GROUND switch on ONLY one CLEARLINK ™ RECEIVE should be set to the “IN” position, so it can “pass” its earth ground reference to any pedals, and the guitar. The GROUND switch on ALL the remaining CLEARLINK™ RECEIVE’s should be set to the “OUT” position, to eliminate the ground loops that would otherwise form. Try setting each GROUND switch to the “IN” position, individually, and use the combination which results in the least amount of buzz, hum and noise.

• Second, remember that any device which contains an audio isolation transformer is susceptible to hum from the magnetic field generated by a power transformer, such as those found in an amplifier, effect processor, “wall-wart” power adapter or universal pedalboard power supply. Even with adequate shielding of the audio transformer and the device itself, there can still be a potential for unexpected hum. So if an unusual hum does occur, which cannot be eliminated by either position of a GROUND switch, try re-locating the CLEARLINK™ RECEIVE. Typically it would only require being moved a short distance in a particular direction to resolve this type of hum.

Flux Drive Overdrive +

Overview:
The FLUX-DRIVE™ Overdrive+ is an overdrive for those who want more of all the best things from an overdrive! It has more liquid gain and enhanced sustain that easily feeds into rich harmonic overtones making it incredibly addictive and inspiring to play, especially to enhance a crunch or higher gain amp channel! It also offers a more complete tone-shaping network with individual Treble and Bass controls. This architecture makes the FLUX-DRIVE a more complete preamp with added versatility beyond that of most overdrive pedals.

PRODUCT FEATURES:
Designed and Hand-Built in Petaluma, California, USA

• True Bypass On/Off Switching - Bypasses all circuitry when off to ensure no tonal loss
• Gain Control allows you to dial in the perfect amount of vocal-overdrive, dynamic to sustaining
• Master Level Control provides a variable range of signal boost up to +20db
• Bass & Treble Controls provide +/- 12db of EQ boost or cut for exceptional tone shaping
• On/Off Status LED
• 9V Battery Powered or optional AC Powered via External Power Jack Input
• Input & Output Jacks (Nominal Input -20 db)

SPECIFICATIONS:

• Dimensions (W/D/H): 2.87" x 4.77" x 2.28" (73mm x 122mm x 58mm)
• Weight: 0.802lbs (364g) with battery, 0.702lbs (319g) without battery
• True Bypass Switching
• Battery Type: 9VDC (one)
• Power Consumption (Current Draw): 9VDC/15mA
• External Power Supply (Not Included): 
• WARNING!!! To avoid immediate damage and voiding the warranty, the External Power Supply MUST be 9VDC with a NEGATIVE CENTER plug polarity and a jack plug size of 2.1mm x 5.5mm.
• Input Impedance: 1M Ohm (500k Ohm minimum)
• Output Impedance: 10k Ohm

High-Wire Dual Buffer & Output Boost

Overview
The HIGH-WIRE™ is our Dual Buffer and Line Driver in a one-stop solution that addresses both Input and Output challenges in the same space saving chassis. Between Instrument and pedals, it provides a stable, consistent load for your guitar’s pickups, ensuring your signal arrives at the first pedal intact and full of Tone. From Pedal Board to the amplifier, it not only buffers the signal, ensuring optimum impedance loading and performance, but also allows for increased signal levels for extra long cable runs via the built-in Line Driver (Footswitchable Boost) feature. As with the Stowaway, all buffer circuitry is 100% discrete Class-A. The HIGH-WIRE also incorporates a fixed +3dB BOOST on a top mounted mini-toggle. The Footswitch is Dual Function and allows both the variable BOOST when hit once and a MUTE when held for a second. The HIGH-WIRE is the ultimate all-in-one Pedal Board signal loss remedy and will remove your tightrope Tone walk once and for all.

Full Details

HIGH-WIRE™ FEATURES

• Made in Petaluma, California with the World’s Finest Materials
• 100% Discrete Class-A STOWAWAY™ Input Buffer Circuit
• Provides the tone & feel of plugging directly into a high-quality tube amp
• RFI Filtering minimizes radio-frequency interference and noise
• Segregated Send & Return Effects Loop provides guitar AND amp with a resolute load and source for the most consistent tone and feel possible
• Integrated CLEARLINK™ Output Line Driver with +3db Level Comp Switch – Capable of driving long ¼” cable runs directly to your amp’s input
• Tuner Output – Provides an “always on” buffered output separate from the main signal chain to feed tuner
• Dual Function Boost/Mute (Tune) Footswitch – Press on/off to activate Boost – Press and hold to activate Mute/Tune
• Variable, Footswitchable Boost Control from Unity up to +22db of Output Boost
• Boost On/Off Status LED
• Mute (Tune) On/Off Status LED
• 9VDC External Power Jack Input (power supply not included)

SPECIFICATIONS

• Input Impedance: 1M Ohm
• Output Impedance: 150 Ohm
• Input Buffer Design: Discrete Class-A (MESA Stowaway™)
• Output Buffer Design: High-Speed, Low Noise Op-Amp (MESA Clearlink™)
• Nominal Operating Voltage: 9VDC
• Maximum Operating Voltage: 12VDC
• Typical Current Draw: 55mA @ 9VDC
• DC Adapter (not included): WARNING!!! To avoid immediate damage and voiding the warranty, the External Power Supply MUST be 9VDC with a NEGATIVE CENTER and a 2.1mm x 5.5mm Barrel Plug
• Weight: 0.743 lbs (337g)
• Dimensions (W x D x H): 2.48 x 4.48 x 2.06 inch (63 x 114 x 52 mm)
• NOTE: Due to efforts for continual improvement, all specifications are subject to change without notice.

FAQs

Can I use the HIGH-WIRE™ DUAL BUFFER/OUTPUT BOOST for my bass?

• Yes you can!

I’m using a switched-mode power adapter/supply (SMPS) and hear a high pitch “whine”, why is that?

• Some of these SMPS adapters are noisier than others, especially those that aren’t from a reputable or brand-name MI manufacturer. Another reason could be that you’re trying to run to many devices from a single adapter. Though many of them have a high current output and tout being able to power many devices, doing so can result in the development and/or increase of noise, for some reason. If this is happening, we recommend either trying another adapter, or better yet - using a universal pedalboard power supply with enough isolated outputs to power every device on your pedalboard individually; better power = less noise = more tone!

What’s the maximum length of cable I can use between my guitar and the HIGH-WIRE™ DUAL BUFFER/OUTPUT BOOST’s input?

• Always aim for the best quality and shortest length possible shielded 1/4” TS instrument cable between the guitar and buffer, but also keep in mind that zero capacitance is not ideal, or practical. It’s safe to say that there’s no way a pickup has been designed without expecting there to be some length of cable, and therefore capacitance, hanging off the output of a guitar. A certain amount of cable capacitance is good, and necessary! We’re not trying to eliminate it, but we are trying to control and prevent it from changing unexpectedly. So if you can afford it, experiment with a variety of brands and lengths, to fine-tune the tone, until you find what suits your tone best! There’s no one-size-fits-all cable length, but generally speaking shorter cables will yield a brighter tone, and longer cables will yield a darker tone. Once again the key is consistency, so when you’ve made your choice, always use the same cable.

I would like to use a vintage fuzz pedal, but have been told that they don’t work well with buffered signals, is this true?

• These pedals will function and sound differently when connected directly to the guitar because they are meant to be fed with a high-impedance signal source, as opposed to a low-impedance signal source, which is why they need to be used first in the signal path. It’s recommended that such pedals either be modified with true-bypass switching, if not already so equipped, or used in conjunction with a true-bypass loop-box to ensure the pedal is completely bypassed when not in use.

Where exactly is the MUTE circuit located within the HIGH-WIRE™ DUAL BUFFER/OUTPUT BOOST?

• The MUTE circuit is located at the SEND jack. This allows for any time-based effect pedals such as a delay, echo and/or reverb, to trail-off naturally when the MUTE is activated, instead of ending abruptly.

What’s the maximum length of cable that the HIGHWIRE ™ DUAL BUFFER/OUTPUT BOOST can drive?

• Cable runs to a back-line amplifier between 20-100ft should not be an issue, but ultimately the maximum length will be determined by the construction quality of the cable and/or how “noisy” the venue is where the gear is being used. As mentioned elsewhere; “...when using shielded 1/4” TS instrument cables, always aim for the best quality and shortest length possible…”

Can I use the HIGH-WIRE™ DUAL BUFFER/OUTPUT BOOST as a 3-way splitter for two amps and a tuner?

• You certainly can, but keep in mind that under some circumstances, the drive capabilities of the SEND and TUNER jacks might not be as robust as the OUTPUT jack. Additionally, the SEND, TUNER and OUTPUT jacks are not transformer isolated, so it would be necessary to use a CLEARLINK™ CONVERTER/ISO TRANSFORMER in front of one amplifier, to prevent the hum and noise that would occur as a result of the ground loop that’s always created when running multiple amplifiers.

Why wasn’t a transformer isolated output provided, for splitting or ground loop elimination applications?

• A transformer isolated output was not included in the design for several very good reasons; (i) fact is, the noise immunity and signal integrity provided by a specially designed and shielded audio isolation transformer at the end of a long cable run is far more superior than that provided by a transformer at the beginning, worst-case is it’s just as good (ii) we know from previous buffer/splitter designs that not everyone makes use of a transformer isolated output; so instead of including a great, and very expensive transformer, and of course having to charge for it - we made it optional via our passive CLEARLINK™ CONVERTER/ISO TRANSFORMER (iii) the primary utilitarian design goal of the HIGH-WIRE™ DUAL BUFFER/OUTPUT BOOST was to provide the two constants in every guitar rig, the guitar and amplifier, with a resolute load and source, via its input buffer and output line-driver, respectively (iv) pedalboard real estate - specially designed and shielded audio isolation transformers are not small, so you won’t see (or hear them) in any sub-compact buffers (v) finally, experience has also taught us that a good number of people who start off with signal splitting, soon wish or opt for devices that provide them with the ability to split AND switch each output on and off individually.