Series / Parallel Switch description

[killroy123]

Hello,

I had a question about a series / parallel switch I have found on the Pitbull and the Sig:X. In reading the manual, it only says

“Sets the loop for series or parallel operation. See FAQs for complete explanation about Series and Parallel loop operation”

I’ve looked through many manuals and there is simply this line stated. The websites the documents point to are legacy websites or point to the Fryette website

Can I have the complete explanation so I make sure I am setting things correctly?

[choalla]

I went to the old website using archive.org and looked up the old FAQ which is referenced in the manuals. This is verbatim what is written in the section about the effects loop:

The effects loop design in all current VHT Heads and Combos, allow either Series or Parallel operation. In the Series mode 100% of the signal from the preamp section of the amp is routed through the send jack to be modified through the effects device. The modified signal is then returned to the effects return jack and sent to the power amp section for final amplification. Effects such as equalizers, compressors and multi-effects processors with fixed or programmable mix controls are typically operated in Series mode.

In Parallel mode only a portion of the preamp signal is routed to the effects send jack for processing. In this case the original signal path inside the amp is protected from the sometimes undesirable side effects of external devices such as signal loss, impedance mis-matching, coloration of the sound and distortion. Effects such as reverbs, delays, and pitch shifting devices which can be set for 100% “wet” output are typically operated in Parallel mode. The processed signal is returned to the amp to be blended with the internal dry signal and then sent to the power amp section for final amplification.

[stephensawall]

With some effects there can be phase issues with the amp effects loop set to parallel Effects that have a dry mix. I am not sure about others.