Can I use ZMACS with the Cyclops for 4 amps + preamp setup?

Stage & Studio ZMACS
1

I am interested in using a cyclops and a zmacs together to have multiple heads plus a preamp… I have a PS2…does this combination work? if so please advise on the wiring scheme…thank you

2

Yes, combining the Cyclops, ZMACS, and a Power Station PS2 will allow you to connect multiple amp heads and a preamp while managing your speaker and load routing. The Cyclops handles switching between amps and preamps, while the ZMACS manages impedance matching and amp-cab routing, ensuring each amp always sees the correct load.

Take a look at the diagrams in the user manuals to get more familiar with each device https://www.fryette.com/manuals-literature/

Here’s how the combination works and the suggested wiring scheme:

Wiring Scheme:

  1. Connecting the Amps to the Cyclops:

    • The Cyclops allows you to switch between multiple heads and a preamp into the Power Station PS2.
    • Connect your amp heads (up to 4) to the Amp Inputs on the Cyclops.
    • Connect your preamp output to the dedicated preamp input on the Cyclops.

  2. Connecting the Cyclops to the Power Station PS2:

    • Connect the Cyclops Amp Output (the signal selected from the multiple amp heads or preamp) to the AMP IN on the PS2. This routes the selected amp signal into the PS2 for attenuation, re-amplification, or load-box usage.

  3. Connecting the ZMACS:

    • The ZMACS will handle the amp-to-speaker cabinet switching and impedance matching. You’ll use it to safely switch between different amp heads and ensure proper speaker impedance matching.
    • Connect the Speaker Out of the PS2 to the Amp Input on the ZMACS.
    • Then, connect multiple speaker cabinets (up to 4) to the ZMACS’ Cabinet Outputs. Use the Impedance Selector on the ZMACS to match each amp’s impedance with the speaker cab.

  4. Complete Routing via the ZMACS:

    • When switching amps using the Cyclops, the ZMACS will manage the routing of the selected amp’s output to the appropriate speaker cabinet, ensuring correct impedance and preventing an open load situation.
    • The ZMACS’ open-load protection ensures that amps are not damaged even when they are not connected to a speaker load.

  5. Optional: Preamp into Line In on the PS2:

    • You can also connect a preamp or modeler directly to the LINE IN on the PS2 for re-amplification through its power amp section. This can bypass the Cyclops if desired for specific setups.

Diagram Summary:

  1. Heads → Cyclops Amp Inputs.
  2. Preamp → Cyclops Preamp Input.
  3. Cyclops Amp Out → PS2 Amp In.
  4. PS2 Speaker Out → ZMACS Amp Input.
  5. ZMACS Cab Outputs → Speaker Cabinets.

Tips:

  • Ensure that the impedance settings on both the PS2 and ZMACS match the amps and speakers to prevent any mismatches.
  • You can use the Cyclops to mute or select the active amp head, while the ZMACS will switch the appropriate speaker cabinet and maintain load safety.

This setup provides you with maximum flexibility, safe switching, and the ability to run both amps and preamps seamlessly with your Power Station PS2.

3

Thank you for your response.

One part is confusing me.

In the wiring scheme I would expect the amp inputs to be connected to the ZMACS. How do you connect multiple amp inputs to the Cyclops?

4

Hi,

Let’s get back to the core of your question.

  • What sounds do you want to switch between?
  • What power amp do you want to use to amplifier the pre-amp?

Then we can configure the system.

Regards,

Dan

5

4 heads
1 preamp (powered by PS2)

Into (1) 2x 12 cab

PS ( time based effects into ambikab jr) for this I was thinking the Amp 1-4 tap could feed it signal

6

Hi again. Is the information I provided in my response enough for you to provide a revised response? Thank you

7

Hi J,

Yes this is great, sorry to not get back to you, and thank you for poking me! Definitely the correct thing to do :slight_smile:

I need to find some time to read the manuals properly, I have family visiting this weekend. Please standby.

8

Surely you have read the manual by now? Lol. Wondering the same thing as the op. Thanks

9

They are still here… stupid Christmas… give me my manuals!

10

There’s only one amp input on the Cyclops. You must be meaning to the four amp inputs on the ZMACS. Or am I missing something?

11

No, you are missing nothing. Just a terrible typo on my side :frowning: