TLA-50 Tube Leveling Amplifier FAQ

Q. How do I align my meter?

A. Sometimes the meter can drift on the TLA-50. Fortunately, it is very easy to align. Warm the unit up to the operating temperature. Make sure there is nothing plugged into the input or output. Looking down through the top slats on the TLA-50, find the blue trim pot in the far back left corner, marked R128 (you may need a flashlight). Ease a small, flathead screwdriver between the slats into the trim pot. Set the meter select switch to "red." (reduction). Turn the trim pot until the meter rests at 0. Flip the meter select switch back to output, then back to reduction and adjust again. Do this several times until the meter consistently sits at 0.

Q. Can I use my TLA-50 in another country with a different voltage?

A. The power supply in the TLA-50 is internally wired from the factory with the specific voltage selected. Try using a step-up or step-down transformer. If you have further questions about this, please contact us and we'll do what we can to help. If you are ordering the TLA-50 in one country and taking it to another with a different voltage, please place the order with your dealer and specify the voltage with them.

Q. My TLA-50's meter overloads and the red lights flash all the time. What can I do?

A. Try using the XLR +4dB input and output instead of the ¼" in and out. This extra 14dB should make your leveler run normally.

Q. When should I change my vacuum tube?

A. We have seen 10,000 hours and more out of our vacuum tubes without signal degradation. We accomplish this by regulating the heater voltage to the tubes, greatly increasing their life, something of a rarity if this industry. So, time is not as much of an issue as is sound. If you hear a ringing sound in your audio or when you rap your knuckles on the front, the tube is going microphonic. If you hear an increase in the noise floor, the tube may need to be replaced. Contact us if you need new tubes, we can help.