FAQ

What fuses should I use in my Hiwatt Amplifier?

Reference the following chart to find the correct fuse values for your Hiwatt amplifier. Pay close attention that you utilize fuses listed for the voltage of power in your country and/or relative to the power supply you are using to power your amplifier.

What does a Hiwatt amp sound like?

The Hiwatt sound is famously known for stunning cleans and seemingly endless headroom. When someone tells you that ‘only a Hiwatt sounds like a Hiwatt’ there is truth in that statement - whereas most amplifiers trace their roots to Leo Fender’s electric guitar amplification circuit, Hiwatt’s founder, Dave Reeves, came up with something truly original.

How come my original Hiwatt does not come with an effects loop?

Hiwatt can truly claim to be the ‘Original Pedal Amp’. Artists quickly found that a Hiwatt with it’s ‘Max Headroom’ could readily accept pedals plugged in between the guitar and amp without distorting the true nature of the pedal effect. Hiwatt offers the artist the truest tone from their pedals – it always has.

How do I use the 4 inputs on Custom Shop amps?

The idea behind the design was to have low and high sensitivities on each channel depending on which guitar/bass is used (or pickups).

The Normal channel has less high frequencies and more bass when compared to the Bright channel. It is typically used with brighter guitars including those with single coil pickups. It is also a great pedal platform channel due to its “flatter” response and fuller sound. If you are using a bright overdrive pedal with this amp, you might consider using this channel first. Plug into the top input of the Normal channel. Use the Normal Vol to control the sound level.

The Bright channel is more aggressive than the Normal channel. It has more highs, more upper mids and less bass. This is great for cutting through on stage when playing with a full band. This channel loves humbucking pickups. Plug into the top input of the Bright channel and use the Bright Vol to control the sound level.

More than just designated inputs for different pickups or instruments, the Hiwatt design offers a range of tonal variation. Try out each input with each of your instruments and see all the Hiwatt has to offer. There is no right or wrong, if it sounds good, it is good.

Many players also blend the two channels. This is done by plugging your guitar into the top input jack of the Normal channel and then a short cable from the bottom input jack of the Normal channel to the top input of the Bright Channel (See Diagram below). Now you can use both Volume controls and blend the sound from both channels.



For example, set the Bright channel volume to the sound level you want and then bring up the Normal volume to fill in the bottom end.

Your Hiwatt amp is one of the best amps for using pedals because of its high headroom and harmonically rich sound. Since the two channels are voiced differently you have two tonal options to match the sound of your pedals, especially overdrive and distortion pedals. Try your pedals in both channels to see which one sounds best for your particular pedals. Then use the tone controls to further shape the sound.

My speaker cabinet grille cloth is dented. Can it be repaired?

Yes! Carefully sponge hot, soapy water onto the dented area, avoiding contact with the speaker, and leave to dry.

How do I obtain spare parts for my Hiwatt amp/speaker?

Some spares such as knobs, feet, handles, speakers and transformers are available from the Hiwatt Custom Shop. Faceplates and badges are only available when pictures of your amp’s serial number and proof of purchase are provided. Contact our tech department at sales@hiwatt.co.uk for further information.

What valves/tubes should I use in my Hiwatt and when do I have them replaced?

Typically we recommend that you replace your power valves/tubes based on the manufacturer’s recommendations for optimal performance and to reduce the risk of failure.

In most cases, it will be difficult to estimate the exact lifespan of a valve/tube, given a large number of variables including how the amplifier is utilized. Hiwatt recommends replacing your tubes/valves if:

• Your amplifier is not functioning as expected.
• You experience excessive noise/hiss/feedback.
• You experience unexpected changes in volume/tone
• You experience a loss of high end content/detail. Or if you experience a lack of treble in your signal.
• You experience an unclear or unresponsive bottom end. Loss of low end content/detail.

Do I need to re-bias my amp when replacing valves (tubes)?

Hiwatt amplifiers designed to function below 50 watts are cathode-biased. Yes, it is highly recommended to have your amplifier re-biased when replacing your power valves. This should only be done by a qualified amp technician.

Failure to correctly bias power valves can affect the tone of your amplifier, reduce valve life and cause damage to your amp.

Valves should always be purchased in matched pairs or quartets. Matched valves have been specifically chosen for optimum performance. Always use quality branded replacements.

Always take your amplifier to a qualified technician. Never service, repair or modify your amplifier yourself.

Can I modify my Hiwatt amplifier?

No you may not - Hiwatt doesn’t recommend or support the modification of Hiwatt products in any way. For any/all repairs always take your amplifier to a qualified technician.

My amp is no longer under warranty, where can I get it serviced?

Consult your nearest Hiwatt Dealer or contact sales@hiwatt.co.uk to locate an authorised technician near you.

Always take your amplifier to a qualified technician. Never service, repair or modify your amplifier yourself.

How do I obtain a Hiwatt schematic?

We only supply schematics and technical information to Hiwatt dealers and authorised repair centres. Contact our tech department at sales@hiwatt.co.uk for any questions you may have about your product.