HB-20R - Guitar amplifier Harley Benton - Free user manual and instructions

Product Type	Guitar Combo Amplifier
Model	HB-20R
Brand	Harley Benton
Power Output	20 Watts RMS
Speaker	8" Custom-voiced speaker
Channels	Single channel with Gain and Volume
Equalizer	3-band EQ (Bass, Middle, Treble)
Reverb	Built-in spring reverb
Inputs	1x 1/4" instrument input, 1x 1/8" aux input
Outputs	1x 1/4" headphone output (mutes speaker)
Dimensions (W x H x D)	380 x 380 x 200 mm
Weight	8.0 kg (approx.)
Power Supply	AC 230V ~ 50Hz, 60W
Construction	Solid wood cabinet with black vinyl covering
Controls	Gain, Volume, Bass, Middle, Treble, Reverb, Power switch
Protection Features	Overload protection, internal fuse
Cleaning Instructions	Wipe with dry, lint-free cloth. Do not use solvents or water.
Safety Precautions	Unplug when not in use. Avoid moisture. Keep away from heat sources.
Repair & Spare Parts	Refer to qualified service personnel. Fuse replacement per manual.
Included Accessories	Power cord, user manual, warranty card
Warranty	2 years (subject to local regulations)
Country of Origin	China

Frequently Asked Questions - HB-20R Harley Benton

How do I connect my guitar to the HB-20R?

Plug your guitar into the 1/4" instrument input on the front panel. Ensure the amp is turned off before connecting, then power on and adjust Volume and Gain to taste.

How do I use the reverb effect?

Turn the Reverb knob clockwise to increase the reverb effect. The HB-20R features a built-in spring reverb for warm, natural ambiance.

Can I use headphones with the HB-20R?

Yes, plug your headphones into the 1/4" headphone output. This will mute the internal speaker, allowing silent practice.

How do I connect an external audio source like a phone?

Connect your device to the 1/8" aux input using a standard audio cable. Adjust the volume on both your device and the amp.

What should I do if the amplifier has no sound?

First, check that the power cable is connected and the power switch is on. Ensure your guitar is plugged into the correct input and the Volume knob is turned up. If still no sound, try a different guitar or cable.

How do I clean the amplifier?

Use a dry, lint-free cloth to wipe the exterior. Do not use any liquids, solvents, or abrasive cleaners, as they may damage the finish or electronics.

What is the recommended power supply for the HB-20R?

The HB-20R operates on AC 230V ~ 50Hz. Always use the supplied power cord. Do not use a voltage converter unless it matches the amp's specifications.

Can I replace the internal fuse myself?

Yes, but only after unplugging the amp. The fuse holder is near the power socket. Replace with an identical fuse (consult the manual for rating). If the fuse blows repeatedly, consult a technician.

How do I adjust the tone controls?

The HB-20R has a 3-band EQ: Bass, Middle, and Treble. Start with all knobs at noon, then adjust each to shape your sound. For more distortion, increase Gain.

Is the HB-20R suitable for live performances?

The HB-20R is a 20-watt practice amp ideal for home use, rehearsals, and small gigs. For larger venues, you may need a more powerful amplifier or PA support.

USER MANUAL HB-20R Harley Benton

Black and white photo of a Harley Bolti audio amplifier (no visible text or symbols on body)

Harley Benton

HB-20R

guitar combo

Musikhaus Thomann

Thomann GmbH

1.1 Further information.... 5
1.2 Notational conventions.... 6
1.3 Symbols and signal words.... 6

2 Safety instructions.... 8
3 Features.... 12
4 Installation and starting up.... 13
5 Connections and controls.... 14
6 Technical specifications.... 17
7 Plug and connection assignment.... 20
8 Protecting the environment.... 22

HB-20R

th·mann

This user manual contains important information on the safe operation of the device. Read and follow all safety notes and all instructions. Save this manual for future reference. Make sure that it is available to all persons using this device. If you sell the device to another user, be sure that they also receive this manual.

Our products and user manuals are subject to a process of continuous development. We therefore reserve the right to make changes without notice. Please refer to the latest version of the user manual which is ready for download under www.thomann.de.

1.1 Further information

On our website (www.thomann.de) you will find lots of further information and details on the following points:

Download This manual is also available as PDF file for you to download.
Keyword search	Use the search function in the electronic version to find the topics of interest for you quickly.
Online guides	Our online guides provide detailed information on technical basics and terms.
Personal consultation For personal consultation please contact our technical hotline.
Service	If you have any problems with the device the customer service will gladly assist you.

HB-20R

1.2 Notational conventions

This manual uses the following notational conventions:

Letterings

The letterings for connectors and controls are marked by square brackets and italics.

Examples: [VOLUME] control, [Mono] button.

1.3 Symbols and signal words

In this section you will find an overview of the meaning of symbols and signal words that are used in this manual.

Signal word Meaning
DANGER! This combination of symbol and signal word indicates an immediate dangerous situation that will result in death or serious injury if it is not avoided.
CAUTION! This combination of symbol and signal word indicates a possible dangerous situation that can result in minor injury if it is not avoided.
NOTICE! This combination of symbol and signal word indicates a possible dangerous situation that can result in material and environmental damage if it is not avoided.
Warning signs Type of danger
	Warning – high-voltage.
	Warning – danger zone.

HB-20R

th·mann MUSIC IS OUR PASSION

2 Safety instructions

Intended use

This device is intended to be used for amplification and playback of signals from musical instruments with electromagnetic pickups. Any other use or use under other operating conditions is considered to be improper and may result in personal injury or property damage. No liability will be assumed for damages resulting from improper use.

This device may be used only by persons with sufficient physical, sensorial, and intellectual abilities and having corresponding knowledge and experience. Other persons may use this device only if they are supervised or instructed by a person who is responsible for their safety.

Safety

DANGER!

Danger for children

Ensure that plastic bags, packaging, etc. are disposed of properly and are not within reach of babies and young children. Choking hazard!

Ensure that children do not detach any small parts (e.g. knobs or the like) from the unit. They could swallow the pieces and choke!

Never let children unattended use electrical devices.

DANGER!

Electric shock caused by high voltages inside

Within the device there are areas where high voltages may be present. Never remove any covers.

There are no user-serviceable parts inside.

Do not use the device if covers, protectors or optical components are missing or damaged.

DANGER!

Electric shock caused by short-circuit

Do not modify the mains cable or the plug. Failure to do so could result in electric shock/death or fire. If in doubt, seek advice from a registered electrician.

HB-20R

th·mann MUSIC IS OUR PASSION

CAUTION!

Possible hearing damage

The device can produce volume levels that may cause temporary or permanent hearing impairment. Over an extended period of time, even levels that seem to be uncritical can cause hearing damage.

Decrease the volume level immediately if you experience ringing in your ears or hearing impairment. If this is not possible, keep a greater distance or use sufficient ear protectors.

NOTICE!

Risk of fire

Do not block areas of ventilation. Do not install the device near any direct heat source. Keep the device away from naked flames.

NOTICE!

Operating conditions

This device has been designed for indoor use only. To prevent damage, never expose the device to any liquid or moisture. Avoid direct sunlight, heavy dirt, and strong vibrations.

NOTICE!

Power supply

Before connecting the device, ensure that the input voltage (AC outlet) matches the voltage rating of the device and that the AC outlet is protected by a residual current circuit breaker. Failure to do so could result in damage to the device and possibly injure the user.

Unplug the device before electrical storms occur and when it is unused for long periods of time to reduce the risk of electric shock or fire.

HB-20R

th·mann MUSIC IS OUR PASSION

3 Features

Special features of the device

■ Output power 20 watt
8" speaker
Overdrive switch
■ Built-in reverb effect
■ 3-band equalizer
Aux input
Headphones output
Line output
Standby function

4 Installation and starting up

Unpack and check carefully there is no transportation damage before using the unit. Keep the equipment packaging. To fully protect the product against vibration, dust and moisture during transportation or storage use the original packaging or your own packaging material suitable for transport or storage, respectively.

Create all connections while the device is off. Use the shortest possible high-quality cables for all connections. Take care when running the cables to prevent tripping hazards.

NOTICE!

Possible property damage by magnetic fields

Loudspeakers produce a static magnetic field. Therefore, maintain an appropriate distance to devices that can be adversely affected or damaged by an external magnetic field.

HB-20R

5 Connections and controls

1 [INPUT] 1/4" phone socket to connect your instrument.
2 [CHANNEL SELECT] Switch to toggle between clean and overdrive channel.
3 [GAIN] Control to adjust the signals preamp gain.
4 [VOLUME] Control to adjust the volume of the overdrive channel.
5 [VOLUME] Control to adjust the volume of the clean channel.
6 [TREBLE] Control to adjust the treble.
7 [MIDDLE] Control to adjust the mids.

HB-20R

th·mann MUSIC IS OUR PASSION

8 [BASS]

Control to adjust the bass.

9 [REVERB]

Control to adjust the intensity of the reverb effect.

10 Aux input for connecting an MP3 or CD player (3.5 mm mini phone socket).

11 Headphones output (3.5 mm mini phone socket).

When you connect headphones, the internal speaker is automatically muted.

12 [LINE OUT]

Output jack for connecting an additional amplifier or recording device (3.5 mm mini phone socket).

13 [POWER]

Power on/off switch. Switches the device on and off.

If there is no signal [INPUT] at the INPUT jack for 30 minutes, the device will automatically enter standby mode (LED green). As soon as the [INPUT] jack receives a signal again, the device automatically switches back to normal mode (LED red).

14 Power cord.

6 Technical specifications

Speaker 1 × 8" speaker
Input connections Instruments 1/4" jack socket
	AUX 3.5 mm phone socket
Output connections Headphones 3.5 mm phone socket
	Amplifier or recording device 3.5 mm phone socket
Input impedance 220 kΩ
Output power 20 W (RMS)
Frequency range 70 Hz to 10 kHz
Signal-to-noise ratio 75 dB
Total harmonic distortion (THD) 0.5% (Clean-Sound)
Power consumption max. 40 W
Supply voltage	230 V ~50 Hz

HB-20R

Technical specifications

Dimensions (W × H × D) 380 mm × 340 mm × 175 mm

Weight 7 kg

Ambient conditions Temperature range 0 °C...40 °C

Relative humidity 50 %, non-condensing

Further information

Channels 2
Reverb Yes
Effects processor No
External effects loop No
Line input Yes
Recording output Yes
MIDI port No
Socket for external speakers No
Headphone connection Yes
Foot switch socket No
Incl. foot switch No

HB-20R

7 Plug and connection assignment

Introduction

This chapter will help you select the right cables and plugs to connect your valuable equipment in such a way that a perfect sound experience is ensured.

Please note these advices, because especially in 'Sound & Light' caution is indicated: Even if a plug fits into the socket, an incorrect connection may result in a destroyed power amp, a short circuit or 'just' in poor transmission quality!

Balanced and unbalanced transmission

Unbalanced transmission is mainly used in semi-professional environment and in hifi use. Instrument cables with two conductors (one core plus shielding) are typical representatives of the unbalanced transmission. One conductor is ground and shielding while the signal is transmitted through the core.

Unbalanced transmission is susceptible to electromagnetic interference, especially at low levels, such as microphone signals and when using long cables.

In a professional environment, therefore, the balanced transmission is preferred, because this enables an undisturbed transmission of signals over long distances. In addition to the conductors 'Ground' and 'Signal', in a balanced transmission a second core is added. This also transfers the signal, but phase-shifted by 180°.

guitar combo

Since the interference affects both cores equally, by subtracting the phase-shifted signals, the interfering signal is completely neutralized. The result is a pure signal without any noise interference.

1/4" TS phone plug (mono, unbalanced)

Three-pole 1/8" mini phone jack (stereo, unbalanced)

1 Signal
2 Ground, shielding

1 Signal (left)
2 Signal (right)
3 Ground, shielding

HB-20R

8 Protecting the environment

Disposal of the packaging material

For the transport and protective packaging, environmentally friendly materials have been chosen that can be supplied to normal recycling.

Ensure that plastic bags, packaging, etc. are properly disposed of.

Do not just dispose of these materials with your normal household waste, but make sure that they are collected for recycling. Please follow the notes and markings on the packaging.

Disposal of your old device

This product is subject to the European Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE) in its currently valid version. Do not dispose with your normal household waste.

Dispose of this device through an approved waste disposal firm or through your local waste facility. When discarding the device, comply with the rules and regulations that apply in your country. If in doubt, consult your local waste disposal facility.

Solid olive green background with no visible text, symbols, or patterns