1993

The 1993 catalog introduces a distinct shift in physical presentation with the adoption of the 5" x 9.5" slim vertical (“Slim Jim”) format, moving away from the more traditional full-size layouts of earlier years. This narrower, taller design reflects a more modern, streamlined approach that mirrors the catalog’s increasing focus on modular systems and vertically integrated product groupings. The format change is not just aesthetic—it improves navigation, reinforces product hierarchy, and aligns visually with rack gear and stacked system configurations that define much of the 1993 lineup.

• New compact vertical layout (5" x 9.5") replaces earlier wider formats
• Improved portability and mail-order usability (easier to handle, store, and reference)
• Supports clearer product segmentation, especially in pro audio system pages
• Visually aligns with rack gear, speaker stacks, and modular system concepts
• Encourages sequential browsing flow, guiding users through complete system builds
• Reflects a broader shift toward a more refined, modern catalog presentation style

The T100 / Tube 100 is one of the most important genuinely new 1993 products because it expands Carvin’s rack and stereo power strategy beyond the established FET line. While the catalog already had strong rack logic through the Quad X and FET amplifiers, the Tube 100 gives Carvin a stereo tube power amp option that fits naturally into the year’s broader emphasis on modular rack systems and refined amplification chains. It is one of the clearest signs that 1993 is developing the system around the player, not just adding another standalone amp.

• New for 1993
• Stereo tube power amp
• Designed to pair with Quad X/X-4 rack concepts
• Extends Carvin rack amplification into all-tube power territory
• Important as part of 1993’s broader rack-system expansion

The 832 is presented as one of Carvin’s most broadly useful full-range speaker systems in the 1993 catalog, built around a 15-inch woofer and large radial horn in a format that balances output, clarity, portability, and price. Carvin positions it as a high-value enclosure for churches, schools, clubs, and outdoor use, stressing that its size-to-efficiency ratio is one of the strengths of the design. It is not the largest speaker in the line, but it is one of the most practical, which makes it central to the catalog’s working-musician sound system story.

• Power handling: 300 watts continuous program
• Frequency response: 65 Hz to 17 kHz ±3 dB
• Useable low frequency: 42 Hz
• Sensitivity: 100 dB SPL, 1 watt at 1 meter
• Inputs/Outputs: two XLR and two 1/4-inch connectors
• Enclosure: vented box
• Best fit in catalog language: churches, schools, clubs, indoor or outdoor performance
• Optional stand support: TS40 speaker stand

The 942 is the point where the 1993 loudspeaker line begins to lean more decisively toward higher-output reinforcement. Carvin describes it as a high-powered mid-size two-way system intended for larger clubs, churches, and school gyms, and emphasizes that its tuned horn-loaded woofer increases output by 1.5 dB. That gives the 942 a more forceful identity than the 832 without moving into the larger 3-way systems. In the structure of the catalog, it serves as the stronger two-way choice for users who need more reach and sustained level while staying in a relatively straightforward format.

• Power handling: 400 watts continuous program
• Frequency response: 65 Hz to 17 kHz ±3 dB
• Useable low frequency: 52 Hz
• Sensitivity: 101 dB SPL
• Enclosure: vented / horn loaded
• Recommended amp: 75 to 600 watts
• Designed uses: larger clubs, churches, school gyms, outdoor events
• Key selling point: tuned horn-loaded woofer for added output and clarity

The 973 is one of the clearest statements of Carvin’s 1993 speaker philosophy. Rather than treating a live speaker as merely a loud box, Carvin frames the 973 as a studio-quality 3-way system for stage and reinforcement environments, using a computer-optimized cabinet, advanced C310 crossover, and matched Pro Series components. It is positioned as a wide-application cabinet that can move from club work to outdoor use while preserving a more detailed, transparent sound than a typical stage enclosure. In the catalog’s language, the 973 is where Carvin begins to bridge accuracy and reinforcement scale.

• 3-way vented enclosure
• Power handling: 400 watts continuous program
• Frequency response: 50 Hz to 19 kHz ±3 dB
• Useable low frequency: 38 Hz
• Crossover: C310 constant voltage
• Sensitivity: 100 dB SPL
• Inputs/Outputs: two XLR and one 1/4-inch
• Recommended amp: 75 to 600 watts
• Application range: clubs to outdoor use

The 993 extends the 973 concept into a much larger-format 3-way system. Carvin explicitly describes it as the big brother of the 973, keeping the same design approach and response goals but doubling the physical scale and component count for higher output and wider reinforcement capability. The catalog is especially clear here: the 993 is meant to deliver large-system sound without giving up the smoother, more controlled response Carvin wants associated with its Pro Series line. It is one of the catalog’s anchor loudspeaker products and a major part of the system-package story in the mixer section.

• 3-way vented box
• Power handling: 800 watts continuous program
• Frequency response: 45 Hz to 19 kHz ±3 dB
• Useable low frequency: 34 Hz
• Sensitivity: 103 dB SPL
• Bi-amp support: panel switch and XLRs
• Low frequency section: two PS15 woofers
• Midrange section: two PS6.5 direct-radiating drivers
• High frequency section: two PS1021 tweeters
• Crossover: C320 constant voltage
• Recommended amp: 100 to 1000 watts

The 1993 catalog presents a deep and credible roster of bass artists aligned with Carvin amplification and speaker systems, reinforcing the brand’s position in both touring and session environments. Rather than focusing on a single flagship player, the catalog emphasizes a wide cross-section of working professionals—spanning rock, jazz, R&B, and studio work—who rely on Carvin bass rigs for clarity, headroom, and consistent performance. This breadth reflects how Carvin systems are positioned: adaptable, road-capable, and equally at home in live reinforcement and recording applications.

• Strong representation from session and touring bassists, not just headline artists
• Notable players include Stanley Clarke, Bunny Brunel, John Entwistle–style lineage players (via tone positioning), James Jamerson Jr., Carmine Rojas, and Lincoln Goines
• Emphasis on clean power, extended low-frequency response, and articulation across styles
• Alignment with PB Series amps and large-format bass enclosures (PB300, PB500, 4x10, 1x15, 1x18 systems)
• Reinforces Carvin’s credibility in both live sound reinforcement and studio-grade bass tone
• Positions bass rigs as scalable systems, not just standalone amps