Question:
I listened to the sound clips on the Digitech website and it sure sounds good, but the good tone that I hear is definitely exaggerated because it’s in stereo. You can pretty much make any shitty distortion sound thick and full if you pan two stereo tracks. So does anyone have any opinions on it? It looks like a nice versatile pedal. I’m not a big pedal guy, mind you. I have more amps than pedals actually. I’m just looking for some flavor – extra grit and cream when I need it. (grit and cream? hmm…)
Response:
>I listened to the sound clips on the Digitech website and it sure >sounds good, but the good tone that I hear is definitely exaggerated >because it’s in stereo. You can pretty much make any shitty distortion >sound thick and full if you pan two stereo tracks. >So does anyone have any opinions on it? It looks like a nice versatile >pedal. I’m not a big pedal guy, mind you. I have more amps than >pedals actually. I’m just looking for some flavor – extra grit and >cream when I need it. (grit and cream? hmm…)
Never heard of that one. Some of the demo sounds are OK, but IMO, their ProCo Rat doesn’t sound like a ProCo Rat, and their EH Big Muff Pi doesn’t sound like a Big Muff. Just looking at the pedal, I’d say that you can’t just select these pedals they’re emulating, you’ll have to dial them in. And the brief time that I owned a Boss MetalZone pedal, contrary to what most people say, you *could* dial in some good sounds, but it wasn’t easy to do, and all you had to do is change something on your amp, and your pedal sound was screwed up. Having a lot of parameters to dial in on a pedal, makes them close to useless in real world situations IMO. But it might be useful for recording purposes. Pete
Response:
>I listened to the sound clips on the Digitech website and it sure >sounds good, but the good tone that I hear is definitely exaggerated >because it’s in stereo. You can pretty much make any shitty distortion >sound thick and full if you pan two stereo tracks. >So does anyone have any opinions on it? It looks like a nice versatile >pedal. I’m not a big pedal guy, mind you. I have more amps than >pedals actually. I’m just looking for some flavor – extra grit and >cream when I need it. (grit and cream? hmm…)
I’d say get a normal pedal and be done. There’s a zillion of ‘em out there and one of ‘em should be versatile enough to give you the, hmmm, grits and cream you want. MMmmmm breakfast. Try a Hotcake, Rat, DOD250, germanium Fuzz Face, etc. The only reason for something like the DDF is super versatility at the cost of model quality. Any of the pedals I just mentioned respond to the controls on the guitar in a way that modelers don’t do yet. A fuzz face with the guitar cranked can do Hendrix or Ronson style fuzz blow out and turn into Jimmy Page on the first Zep album when you roll the volume back. The modelers just give you the same sound but quieter. Ron
Response:
Question:
I have not been that active playing because of my work load from the shop and other projects this year. I did manage to get out a few times, but have not had the chance to update my web site with the new stuff. Here is a resent tune of total improvisating at the Goat Cafe by the Improviser’s Laboratory. I mastered it while waiting for the paint to dry between coats on the guitars I have to refinish and restore. http://www.timeelect.com/music/countmeout.mp3 This is the Green Bass pictured on this page you hear being used. http://www.timeelect.com/mk6.htm Anyone want to take a guess at what instruments and what gear is producing some of those sounds you hearing on this tune. There are a lot of neat toys on the stage to play with, and the guys will help you out with it too. We are there every 4th Tuesday of the month. Like I said, come on down. http://thegoatcafe.typepad.com/ Regards, Rich Koerner, Time Electronics. http://www.timeelect.com Specialists in Live Sound FOH Engineering, Music & Studio Production, Vintage Instruments, and Tube Amplifiers
Response:
>I have not been that active playing because of my work load from the shop and other projects this >year. >I did manage to get out a few times, but have not had the chance to update my web site with the new >stuff. >Here is a resent tune of total improvisating at the Goat Cafe by the Improviser’s Laboratory. >I mastered it while waiting for the paint to dry between coats on the guitars I have to refinish and >restore.
Which guitars are you working on? I’m in the middle of rebuilding a parts Strat. Still trying to come up with a Strat that I could make my main guitar. Which has never happened yet. http://lasttelecaster.home.comcast.net/lastwhammy/RebuildBodyFinished… Getting ready to rewire it….. again! This next rewire’s gonna be a keeper though. >http://www.timeelect.com/music/countmeout.mp3 >This is the Green Bass pictured on this page you hear being used. >http://www.timeelect.com/mk6.htm >Anyone want to take a guess at what instruments and what gear is producing some of those sounds you >hearing on this tune.
I’m not sure if it’s clear enough to ID those guitars. If I had to hazard a guess, I’d say that the guitar that plays the opening lead is a full-hollow Jazzbox. I think I hear a bowed instrument (an upright bass?) playing through some sort of processor starting at around 5 minutes. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->There are a lot of neat toys on the stage to play with, and the guys will help you out with it too. >We are there every 4th Tuesday of the month. >Like I said, come on down. >http://thegoatcafe.typepad.com/ >Regards, >Rich Koerner, >Time Electronics. >http://www.timeelect.com >Specialists in Live Sound FOH Engineering, > Music & Studio Production, >Vintage Instruments, and Tube Amplifiers
Response:
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->I have not been that active playing because of my work load from the shop and other projects this >year. >I did manage to get out a few times, but have not had the chance to update my web site with the new >stuff. >Here is a resent tune of total improvisating at the Goat Cafe by the Improviser’s Laboratory. >I mastered it while waiting for the paint to dry between coats on the guitars I have to refinish and >restore. > Which guitars are you working on?
About 8 all at the same time. The 52 LP is in the finishing stages. The strat with all the fill in pieces. A Fender Custom shop strat body now going black, because a customer didn’t like Fiesta Red anymore. A classic white tele custom body, back loaded, strat trem, and a pair of humbuckers. A 1956 dual sonic refin. Two Fender maple necks, with one getting a fret job too. One of my new bass bodies. A 1968 LP Custom being spotted in black, for a restoration. A 1973 LP being spotted in burgundy, for a restoration. A head stock on an SG standard. A busted up flying V, now all put back together, in classic white and pin stripes. An Epi broken headstock repair with a three color sunburst. > I’m in the middle of rebuilding a parts Strat. Still trying to come > up with a Strat that I could make my main guitar. Which has never > happened yet. > http://lasttelecaster.home.comcast.net/lastwhammy/RebuildBodyFinished…
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Getting ready to rewire it….. again! This next rewire’s gonna be a > keeper though. >http://www.timeelect.com/music/countmeout.mp3 >This is the Green Bass pictured on this page you hear being used. >http://www.timeelect.com/mk6.htm >Anyone want to take a guess at what instruments and what gear is producing some of those sounds you >hearing on this tune. > I’m not sure if it’s clear enough to ID those guitars. If I had to > hazard a guess, I’d say that the guitar that plays the opening lead is > a full-hollow Jazzbox. > I think I hear a bowed instrument (an upright bass?) playing through > some sort of processor starting at around 5 minutes. >There are a lot of neat toys on the stage to play with, and the guys will help you out with it too. >We are there every 4th Tuesday of the month. >Like I said, come on down. >http://thegoatcafe.typepad.com/ >Regards, >Rich Koerner, >Time Electronics. >http://www.timeelect.com >Specialists in Live Sound FOH Engineering, > Music & Studio Production, >Vintage Instruments, and Tube Amplifiers
– Regards, Rich Koerner, Time Electronics. http://www.timeelect.com Specialists in Live Sound FOH Engineering, Music & Studio Production, Vintage Instruments, and Tube Amplifiers
Response:
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> >I have not been that active playing because of my work load from the shop and other projects this > >year. > >I did manage to get out a few times, but have not had the chance to update my web site with the new > >stuff. > >Here is a resent tune of total improvisating at the Goat Cafe by the Improviser’s Laboratory. > >I mastered it while waiting for the paint to dry between coats on the guitars I have to refinish and > >restore. > Which guitars are you working on? >About 8 all at the same time. >The 52 LP is in the finishing stages.
Great, we should get to see a page on that one soon then! >The strat with all the fill in pieces. >A Fender Custom shop strat body now going black, because a customer didn’t like Fiesta Red anymore.
Fiesta Red? I could see getting tired of that! Black might not be a great stage color, but a guitar can look really classy in black, just sitting there. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->A classic white tele custom body, back loaded, strat trem, and a pair of humbuckers. >A 1956 dual sonic refin. >Two Fender maple necks, with one getting a fret job too. >One of my new bass bodies. >A 1968 LP Custom being spotted in black, for a restoration. >A 1973 LP being spotted in burgundy, for a restoration. >A head stock on an SG standard. >A busted up flying V, now all put back together, in classic white and pin stripes. >An Epi broken headstock repair with a three color sunburst.
Broken headstocks. The thing I fear the most about playing setneck guitars! I’m taking my Les Paul Special off mothballs, but I’m being very careful not to lose my grip on the thing. > I’m in the middle of rebuilding a parts Strat. Still trying to come > up with a Strat that I could make my main guitar. Which has never > happened yet. > http://lasttelecaster.home.comcast.net/lastwhammy/RebuildBodyFinished…
Thanks. I like it a lot better with single pickups, and a normal looking pickguard. The double blade humbucker Strat pickups were nice for having more power, but I prefer the sound of full size humbuckers for humbucker sounds. Before pic: http://lasttelecaster.home.comcast.net/lastwhammy/blueStrat3.jpg Looks more like a Strat now. Looked a little too much like a homebrew before. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Getting ready to rewire it….. again! This next rewire’s gonna be a > keeper though. > >http://www.timeelect.com/music/countmeout.mp3 > >This is the Green Bass pictured on this page you hear being used. > >http://www.timeelect.com/mk6.htm > >Anyone want to take a guess at what instruments and what gear is producing some of those sounds you > >hearing on this tune. > I’m not sure if it’s clear enough to ID those guitars. If I had to > hazard a guess, I’d say that the guitar that plays the opening lead is > a full-hollow Jazzbox. > I think I hear a bowed instrument (an upright bass?) playing through > some sort of processor starting at around 5 minutes. > >There are a lot of neat toys on the stage to play with, and the guys will help you out with it too. > >We are there every 4th Tuesday of the month. > >Like I said, come on down. > >http://thegoatcafe.typepad.com/ > >Regards, > >Rich Koerner, > >Time Electronics. > >http://www.timeelect.com > >Specialists in Live Sound FOH Engineering, > > Music & Studio Production, > >Vintage Instruments, and Tube Amplifiers
Response:
Question:
I’m currently playing through a 15 watt Johnson TR-15 amp, using an Ibanez SA-220 and a BC Rich Warlock. At this point, I’m more interested in sound quality than volume, as I like to play very late at night and I can’t open up without pissing off the neighbors. I’ve been considering going to an Epiphone Valve Jr. instead of the Johnson amp, as I can pick it up for around $180 CDN. I had no idea until a week ago that there were tube amps within my budget (and that pretty much is my budget… nil) and the reviews seem to be quite good for the amp. My question is, will there be a significant improvement in sound quality in going to a pre and power tube setup at proper voltages from what I’m using now, which as I understand it is a low powered tube in the preamp alone? I like the clean sound of my amp, probably as much as any SS amp I’ve used, but the drive leaves something to be desired. Also, will I be able to drive the amp at reasonable volume? I know it’s only a 5 watt, but I know tube amps tend to be loud and nothing I’ve heard about this one says different. I haven’t played it yet, but I will within the next few days. Effects wise, I’m using a Johnson J-station amp modeler/FX box, TS-7 tubescreamer and a Metal Zone (rarely, love the EQ but it’s too high gain for most of what I play). I’ve been leaning towards going more towards picking up a few decent stompboxes rather than continuing to rely on my FX box. Will these pedals get along well with the new amp? I play all styles, a lot of clean but I’d like a nice overdrive sound. Heavy I can get with pedals when I want it… So what do you guys think? I know everyone will say I can’t go wrong for $200 bucks, which is probably true, but I’d like to tap everyone’s expertise first. Thanks.
Response:
> I’m currently playing through a 15 watt Johnson TR-15 amp, using an > Ibanez SA-220 and a BC Rich Warlock. At this point, I’m more interested > in sound quality than volume, as I like to play very late at night and > I can’t open up without pissing off the neighbors. I’ve been > considering going to an Epiphone Valve Jr. instead of the Johnson amp, > as I can pick it up for around $180 CDN.
That seems a bit high. New head is $100, shipped in the U.S. Combo is $130. > I had no idea until a week ago > that there were tube amps within my budget (and that pretty much is my > budget… nil) and the reviews seem to be quite good for the amp. My > question is, will there be a significant improvement in sound quality > in going to a pre and power tube setup at proper voltages from what I’m > using now, which as I understand it is a low powered tube in the preamp > alone?
Any answer you get will only be the poster’s personal opinion. You need to get to a guitar shop and try them out. My opinion of the combo (haven’t tried the head yet): It’s a decent sounding amp, but sounds small (because it is). I’d expect to like the head much more, since I have various cabs to switch between. The combo is not too much unlike an old Champ or similar in tone. > I like the clean sound of my amp, probably as much as any SS amp > I’ve used, but the drive leaves something to be desired.
What music do you play? If you play blues, you may LOVE the Valve Junior. If you play high gain or metal, you may HATE it. > Also, will I > be able to drive the amp at reasonable volume?
You’re asking a guy that uses 45 to 60W amps in his living room. For me, no problem. For an apartment dweller, invitation for eviction. > I know it’s only a 5 > watt, but I know tube amps tend to be loud and nothing I’ve heard about > this one says different.
Five watts can be VERY LOUD. It is half as loud at 50W. To double loudness, you need a ten times increase in power. Five watts can be quite tolerable with an inefficient speaker in a small combo, but rattle your windows with a very efficient 4×12. > I haven’t played it yet, but I will within the > next few days. Effects wise, I’m using a Johnson J-station amp > modeler/FX box, TS-7 tubescreamer and a Metal Zone (rarely, love the EQ > but it’s too high gain for most of what I play). I’ve been leaning > towards going more towards picking up a few decent stompboxes rather > than continuing to rely on my FX box. Will these pedals get along well > with the new amp?
I can’t guarantee a decent metal tone out of a tiny combo amp, no matter how much you like the pedal. But you listen, and you decide. That TS might sound VERY NICE into that amp. Again, you decide. …and bring your pedals with you! – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> I play all styles, a lot of clean but I’d like a nice > overdrive sound. Heavy I can get with pedals when I want it… So what > do you guys think? I know everyone will say I can’t go wrong for $200 > bucks, which is probably true, but I’d like to tap everyone’s expertise > first. > Thanks.
Response:
I recently picked up the head version of this amp as a "blemish" for $85 US. Personally, I’m fairly happy with the sound of this amp, and have been considering picking up a second on to try out some of the various mods out there (the Mercury Magnetics kit being the first on my list). While this sounds banal, whether or not you like this amp depends on what you are looking for… I notice that you are playing a BC Rich Warlock, so to stick with stereotypes, I’d guess that you are a metal and/or industrial player. If that is the case, and you are looking for something within the Marshall or Mesa range, then this isn’t the tube amp you are looking for. You should be able to find a used Laney tube amp in your price range, and this would be a better choice for heavier music styles. Here is what I can tell you from my experience. I am currently playing the amp through a custom-made open-back 1×12 cabinet loaded with a Jensen P12R (yeah, I know…there are better speakers, but it was what I had on hand at the time). I’ve played various guitars through this including a Fender Strat, Jackson 7-string, Epiphone Casino, and Epiphone Dot (think 335). My favorite here is the Strat. With the volume from a quarter to half of the way up, I can get nice clean-ish tones with just a hint of bite when I want. It has a nice, round sound. Turning it up past halfway will get a fair amount of distortion, but I just don’t find this amp’s distortion that pleasing – and I can be a real gain freak. Also, in terms of sheer volume, this is a louder than expected amp. Wide open, it is louder than other similar amps like the Blues Junior, so that may be a consideration if you are looking to run it cranked and dirty. So some things to try would be different speakers and cabinets, guitars, and possibly mods. There are some links with sound clips of juniors with the Mercury kit linked off of their web site, and I must say that they sound pretty good. I did try the head with the Crate 1×12, Celestion loaded cabinet and didn’t like the sound – seemed too harsh and tinny. Hope that helps. Rob – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > I’m currently playing through a 15 watt Johnson TR-15 amp, using an > Ibanez SA-220 and a BC Rich Warlock. At this point, I’m more interested > in sound quality than volume, as I like to play very late at night and > I can’t open up without pissing off the neighbors. I’ve been > considering going to an Epiphone Valve Jr. instead of the Johnson amp, > as I can pick it up for around $180 CDN. I had no idea until a week ago > that there were tube amps within my budget (and that pretty much is my > budget… nil) and the reviews seem to be quite good for the amp. My > question is, will there be a significant improvement in sound quality > in going to a pre and power tube setup at proper voltages from what I’m > using now, which as I understand it is a low powered tube in the preamp > alone? I like the clean sound of my amp, probably as much as any SS amp > I’ve used, but the drive leaves something to be desired. Also, will I > be able to drive the amp at reasonable volume? I know it’s only a 5 > watt, but I know tube amps tend to be loud and nothing I’ve heard about > this one says different. I haven’t played it yet, but I will within the > next few days. Effects wise, I’m using a Johnson J-station amp > modeler/FX box, TS-7 tubescreamer and a Metal Zone (rarely, love the EQ > but it’s too high gain for most of what I play). I’ve been leaning > towards going more towards picking up a few decent stompboxes rather > than continuing to rely on my FX box. Will these pedals get along well > with the new amp? I play all styles, a lot of clean but I’d like a nice > overdrive sound. Heavy I can get with pedals when I want it… So what > do you guys think? I know everyone will say I can’t go wrong for $200 > bucks, which is probably true, but I’d like to tap everyone’s expertise > first. > Thanks.
Response:
I appreciate the replies. I had intended to mention that my playing style is all over the map, from folk to metal, but more often than not clean to slightly overdriven. Although I do go high gain occasionally, it’s not as common as it used to be, and I’d gladly give up that screaming Mesa type sound in favor of a nice bluesy overdrive. I’ll use pedals to get the metal sound when I do want it, and I understand that an amp that gives a nice overdrive may not be ideal for high gain regardless of pedals. What really got me thinking about changing amps was the purchase of the TS-7. As was mentioned, I suspect that it would sound really good through this type of amp as opposed to what I’m using now. I mentioned that I’m finding myself drifting back to a small selection of pedals rather than the FX box again… I think I’ve hit that stage where you realize that you don’t need a roomful of effects to make good music… I did forget to mention that I have a George Dennis Overdrive-Wah pedal, and I broke down today and grabbed a good deal on a Digitech X-series reverb pedal. If I get my hands on a decent phaser and/or chorus I think I’m done, effects wise. I’ve also been considering getting rid of the Metal Zone again… It’s a phase I go through every now and then, because it really is too high gain for what I do 99% of the time. Are there any other recommendations for small, inexpensive tube combos? I forgot to mention that it is the combo that I’m considering, as I don’t have a cab…
Response:
> I recently picked up the head version of this amp as a "blemish" for > $85 US. Personally, I’m fairly happy with the sound of this amp, and > have been considering picking up a second on to try out some of the > various mods out there (the Mercury Magnetics kit being the first on my > list). While this sounds banal, whether or not you like this amp > depends on what you are looking for…
Out of extreme curiosity, I also bought a Valve Jr head. For a c-note, not a bad little amp. I haven’t spent too much time with it but what I noticed immediately was that the OPT had to go. The power tranny seems to be OK — from what I can tell it is the same one used in the 2xEL84 version. (I use the term OK based on function. I haven’t played it nearly enough to have the first clue as to life expectancy.) Anyway, in keeping with the extreme low cost idea, I bought a Weber WSE15 output transformer for it. I have never used a Weber tranny before — have always used Mercury — but the price is just stupid cheap! So I tried it. Big difference. Much, much nicer tone and response. It opens up the bottom end and the top end. Sounds less like a little boxey thing and more like a *real* amp. And I like the impedance match better. The stock transformer has a 7K primary, like a champ, but, for me, that’s a bit on the high side for a single EL84. The WSE is 5K. It is large, but it fits. You need to only drill one hole. One original hole is fine, and the wires feed through the original grommets with no problem. You might want to try it. Gary Gerhart Gerhart Amplification
Response:
Gary, Any idea how that trannie compares to the Hammond 125E or 125ESE? They cost just a few dollars more, so if you think they are higher quality, they might be a worthwhile alternative. Steve – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> I recently picked up the head version of this amp as a "blemish" for > $85 US. Personally, I’m fairly happy with the sound of this amp, and > have been considering picking up a second on to try out some of the > various mods out there (the Mercury Magnetics kit being the first on my > list). While this sounds banal, whether or not you like this amp > depends on what you are looking for… > Out of extreme curiosity, I also bought a Valve Jr head. > For a c-note, not a bad little amp. I haven’t spent too much > time with it but what I noticed immediately was that the > OPT had to go. The power tranny seems to be OK — from what > I can tell it is the same one used in the 2xEL84 version. > (I use the term OK based on function. I haven’t played it > nearly enough to have the first clue as to life expectancy.) > Anyway, in keeping with the extreme low cost idea, I bought a Weber > WSE15 output transformer for it. I have never used a Weber tranny > before — have always used Mercury — but the price is just stupid > cheap! So I tried it. Big difference. Much, much nicer tone and > response. It opens up the bottom end and the top end. Sounds > less like a little boxey thing and more like a *real* amp. > And I like the impedance match better. The stock transformer > has a 7K primary, like a champ, but, for me, that’s a bit on the high > side for a single EL84. The WSE is 5K. > It is large, but it fits. You need to only drill one hole. One > original hole is fine, and the wires feed through the original > grommets with no problem. You might want to try it. > Gary Gerhart > Gerhart Amplification
Response:
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > I’m currently playing through a 15 watt Johnson TR-15 amp, using an > Ibanez SA-220 and a BC Rich Warlock. At this point, I’m more interested > in sound quality than volume, as I like to play very late at night and > I can’t open up without pissing off the neighbors. I’ve been > considering going to an Epiphone Valve Jr. instead of the Johnson amp, > as I can pick it up for around $180 CDN. I had no idea until a week ago > that there were tube amps within my budget (and that pretty much is my > budget… nil) and the reviews seem to be quite good for the amp. My > question is, will there be a significant improvement in sound quality > in going to a pre and power tube setup at proper voltages from what I’m > using now, which as I understand it is a low powered tube in the preamp > alone? I like the clean sound of my amp, probably as much as any SS amp > I’ve used, but the drive leaves something to be desired. Also, will I > be able to drive the amp at reasonable volume? I know it’s only a 5 > watt, but I know tube amps tend to be loud and nothing I’ve heard about > this one says different. I haven’t played it yet, but I will within the > next few days. Effects wise, I’m using a Johnson J-station amp > modeler/FX box, TS-7 tubescreamer and a Metal Zone (rarely, love the EQ > but it’s too high gain for most of what I play). I’ve been leaning > towards going more towards picking up a few decent stompboxes rather > than continuing to rely on my FX box. Will these pedals get along well > with the new amp? I play all styles, a lot of clean but I’d like a nice > overdrive sound. Heavy I can get with pedals when I want it… So what > do you guys think? I know everyone will say I can’t go wrong for $200 > bucks, which is probably true, but I’d like to tap everyone’s expertise > first. > Thanks.
Five watts is pretty loud. I have a Fender Champ that’s about the same power rating and it’s not something I can crank up in an apartment.
Response:
> Gary, > Any idea how that trannie compares to the Hammond 125E or 125ESE? They > cost just a few dollars more, so if you think they are higher quality, > they might be a worthwhile alternative. > Steve
Steve, I know almost nothing about Hammond transformers other than what I read. The 125E is not the ticket — it is for push-pull. The 125ESE may be similar, but I’ve never tried one. The low end freq response of the Hammond is listed as 100Hz and I believe, but you’d have to ask Ted, that his is good to 40Hz or so. Either way, the 125ESE would likely be a big improvement over the stock OPT. Gary Gerhart Gerhart Amplification
Response:
Go and figure: http://www.instituteofnoise.com/L6/ampclips.asp#Epiphone — Yours Virtually, Zbig A.
Response:
Well, I went out today and picked up a Valve Jr. since I thought about it and figured that 5 watts is about all the volume I can use right now. Sounded great in the store. Unfortunately, they gave me a new in box one, and I think I may have gotten a bad set of tubes. The amp I brought home seems sort of cold and sterile compared to the one I played in the store. So, I think tomorrow it goes back in the box and I tell them I want the display model… What a pain. Anyway, based on what I heard today at the store, I’m looking forward to it even more…
Response:
> Well, I went out today and picked up a Valve Jr. since I thought about > it and figured that 5 watts is about all the volume I can use right > now. Sounded great in the store. Unfortunately, they gave me a new in > box one, and I think I may have gotten a bad set of tubes. The amp I > brought home seems sort of cold and sterile compared to the one I > played in the store. So, I think tomorrow it goes back in the box and I > tell them I want the display model… What a pain. Anyway, based on > what I heard today at the store, I’m looking forward to it even more…
You know what? I had similar feeling when I brought mine home. But in my case it was one and the same piece, the only one they had on stock. 
In the shop it sounded grrrrreeeeat; the snare of a drumset in the other end of a shop was reverberating while playing this little amp. I brought it home and at first I thought that something must get broken on a way… How was room acoustics back in the shop? Was it bare walls and concrete (tiles) floor? And where you play at home, do you have carpets, curtains, sofas etc? Put in in a corner of your room and see how much difference it makes. And BTW, I still have 15W solid state Peavey and this Valve Jr kicks its ass not only tonewise — worlds apart!! — but loudness-wise as well. — Virtually Yours, Zibi
Response:
Hmm… You might be onto something there. I’m going to move it around a little first and see what happens. It’s very possible that the room acoustics were just better there, as I’m sure they put some thought into that when they set things up… You’re right, it still sounds very good, just seems to be missing that bite that it had in the store. Thanks.
Response:
> Hmm… You might be onto something there. I’m going to move it around a > little first and see what happens. It’s very possible that the room > acoustics were just better there, as I’m sure they put some thought > into that when they set things up… You’re right, it still sounds very > good, just seems to be missing that bite that it had in the store.
Don’t forget to break in your speakers, folks… this takes several hours of loud playing, or you can connect an MP3 player and leave the house. __ Steve . ps gloat.
Response:
I wasn’t aware of that… Thanks. I didn’t go back to the store today… I have a friend at work who is a technician and also plays, he’s going to hook me up with a nice set of tubes cheap, says he’s heard of that particular store putting real hot tubes in the floor models to make them sound better to customers. I’ll break the speakers in tonight, hopefully change the tubes out tomorrow, and hopefully she’ll sing. Just a quick question… For a newbie, is there anything I need to know about changing tubes? Specifically, is there anything in there that will hold a dangerous voltage when the amp is unplugged? Is it just a matter of unplugging the amp, pulling the tubes straight out, aligning and pushing in the new ones? (After they cool, of course). A few hours of loud playing to break in the speakers? Hey, I’m not one to turn down a convenient excuse 
Response:
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > I’m currently playing through a 15 watt Johnson TR-15 amp, using an > Ibanez SA-220 and a BC Rich Warlock. At this point, I’m more interested > in sound quality than volume, as I like to play very late at night and > I can’t open up without pissing off the neighbors. I’ve been > considering going to an Epiphone Valve Jr. instead of the Johnson amp, > as I can pick it up for around $180 CDN. I had no idea until a week ago > that there were tube amps within my budget (and that pretty much is my > budget… nil) and the reviews seem to be quite good for the amp. My > question is, will there be a significant improvement in sound quality > in going to a pre and power tube setup at proper voltages from what I’m > using now, which as I understand it is a low powered tube in the preamp > alone? I like the clean sound of my amp, probably as much as any SS amp > I’ve used, but the drive leaves something to be desired. Also, will I > be able to drive the amp at reasonable volume? I know it’s only a 5 > watt, but I know tube amps tend to be loud and nothing I’ve heard about > this one says different. I haven’t played it yet, but I will within the > next few days. Effects wise, I’m using a Johnson J-station amp > modeler/FX box, TS-7 tubescreamer and a Metal Zone (rarely, love the EQ > but it’s too high gain for most of what I play). I’ve been leaning > towards going more towards picking up a few decent stompboxes rather > than continuing to rely on my FX box. Will these pedals get along well > with the new amp? I play all styles, a lot of clean but I’d like a nice > overdrive sound. Heavy I can get with pedals when I want it… So what > do you guys think? I know everyone will say I can’t go wrong for $200 > bucks, which is probably true, but I’d like to tap everyone’s expertise > first. > Thanks.
A cranked 5 watt tube amp is still quite loud. Louder than I would crank in my house if anyone was sleeping. Chris
Response:
> I wasn’t aware of that… Thanks. I didn’t go back to the store > today… I have a friend at work who is a technician and also plays, > he’s going to hook me up with a nice set of tubes cheap, says he’s > heard of that particular store putting real hot tubes in the floor > models to make them sound better to customers. I’ll break the speakers > in tonight, hopefully change the tubes out tomorrow, and hopefully > she’ll sing. Just a quick question… For a newbie, is there anything I > need to know about changing tubes? Specifically, is there anything in > there that will hold a dangerous voltage when the amp is unplugged? Is > it just a matter of unplugging the amp, pulling the tubes straight out, > aligning and pushing in the new ones? (After they cool, of course).
Yes, under certain conditions high voltage can be stored inside an unplugged tube amp. Normally this doesn’t affect tube changes, since you avoid touching the tube pins while the tube is being installed or removed. Head over to the AGA site and read up on all the stuff you should know before pulling tubes out. http://aga.rru.com/ The FAQ and Tech Tips are highly recommended. > A few hours of loud playing to break in the speakers? Hey, I’m not one > to turn down a convenient excuse
Exactly! Regard it as a duty! __ Steve .
Response:
One more question… Do I need to bias the output tube when I change it, or is it even possible with this amp?
Response:
> One more question… Do I need to bias the output tube when I change > it, or is it even possible with this amp?
No, not possible… go for it. __ Steve .
Response:
> Exactly! > __ > Steve > .
Literally! Have a good Un! Paper or plastic? 
Response:
> One more question… Do I need to bias the output tube when I change > it, or is it even possible with this amp?
The El84 is cathode biased. You just pop in another tube and turn it back on.
Response:
Great… I’m really hoping he’s in today, as I’m now dying to get my hands on those new tubes. I tried to work the speaker last night, and even my FX unit sounded 100% better, which I found a little odd, since I had assumed that a modeler would sound better through an amp with little personality of it’s own… Dialed in a Mesa Dual and let it rip… Felt great
Response:
Question:
Hey Rich!!! Dig that bass player! Gene Vincent: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vDU9FP5_B2M All that’s missing is John Lennon and Jimi coming out on stage and jamming with them! Freakin’ Rock& Roll dreams! – DJ
Response:
>Hey Rich!!! Dig that bass player! >Gene Vincent: >http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vDU9FP5_B2M >All that’s missing is John Lennon and Jimi coming out on stage and >jamming with them! >Freakin’ Rock& Roll dreams! >- DJ
What’s missing isn’t more band members. Seems like that bass player needs a better rig though. Maybe it’s just that recording, but I can hardly hear him at all. When did Ampeg start building those Portaflex amps? Pete
Response:
> Hey Rich!!! Dig that bass player! > Gene Vincent: > http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vDU9FP5_B2M > All that’s missing is John Lennon and Jimi coming out on stage and > jamming with them! > Freakin’ Rock& Roll dreams!
There’s everything you need to know about rock and roll right there… in 1958!!!!!!! Not much has changed, just more hair and modern bands aren’t allowed to look like they’re just having a good time. They even had the baggy look. 8^)
Response:
> Hey Rich!!! Dig that bass player! > Gene Vincent: > http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vDU9FP5_B2M > All that’s missing is John Lennon and Jimi coming out on stage and > jamming with them! > Freakin’ Rock& Roll dreams! > – DJ
Check This one. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=az9P3CIqYaw&search=gene%20vincent Regards, Rich Koerner, Time Electronics. http://www.timeelect.com Specialists in Live Sound FOH Engineering, Music & Studio Production, Vintage Instruments, and Tube Amplifiers
Response:
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Hey Rich!!! Dig that bass player! > Gene Vincent: > http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vDU9FP5_B2M > All that’s missing is John Lennon and Jimi coming out on stage and > jamming with them! > Freakin’ Rock& Roll dreams! > – DJ >Check This one. >http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=az9P3CIqYaw&search=gene%20vincent
Hopping around on one leg!
Response:
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Hey Rich!!! Dig that bass player! > Gene Vincent: > http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vDU9FP5_B2M > All that’s missing is John Lennon and Jimi coming out on stage and > jamming with them! > Freakin’ Rock& Roll dreams! > – DJ > Check This one. > http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=az9P3CIqYaw&search=gene%20vincent > Regards, > Rich Koerner, > Time Electronics. > http://www.timeelect.com > Specialists in Live Sound FOH Engineering, > Music & Studio Production, > Vintage Instruments, and Tube Amplifiers
Rock Show!!! Wait a minute, that was RICH playing bass!!! All the elements: Totally driven by love for what they’re doing Talent Attitude (they think they are studs – and the chicks do as well to back them up, this basiclly is the gas in the engine!) Showmanship Rock and Roll Show, once you are in a band with those elements, youare addicted for life even if you "retire". "Hello everyone, my name is Don, and I’m a rock-a-holic" You better find a meeting baby, AND BRING YOUR AXE AND ATTITUDE! – DJ
Response:
> Hopping around on one leg!
Uh oh. That wasn’t a transparisteel leg was it? net it’ll be wookies in the nose.
Response:
>> Hopping around on one leg! >Uh oh. >That wasn’t a transparisteel leg was it? >net it’ll be wookies in the nose.
Weren’t all Pre-Fab4 legs made of transparisteel?
Response:
Question:
Lord Valve explains to the group who the hateful Ed Blum (aka El Kabong) is: – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > Speaking as someone who has put up with *years* > of the creep Ed Blum wishing death on me, wishing > for my shop to burn down, wishing for my business to > be bombed, let me go on the record as saying I hope > Ivan smacks his ass flat and blows away everything > he owns. The karmic rightness of it will be more than > sweet. > I’ll have a steak dinner at the best steakhouse in Denver, > smoke a fine cigar, and grin my fat ass off if it happens. > Lord Valve > Watching
El Kabong reacts: >Did you see anything Wilbur? >I’m still here and all of my stuff is intact, boo hoo hoo. >BTW, I’ll be sending you a bunch of crow shit you can either >eat on a slice of bread or stick it in your pipe and smoke it or >give yourself a crow shit enema. Either way, you richly deserve it. >So, it looks like you’ll be with me another bunch of *years*, >Wilbur, you hateful creep. Ha ha ha ha ha
Then Lord Valve made this daring and prophetic prediction: >Damn shame you lived. >There’ll be another one along soon. >Lord Valve >American
Yep, and the very next year – KABLAMO! Katrina hits, Blum is in misery and Lord Valve wins again! All that Blum wished on LV has happened to Blum instead! "The karmic rightness of it will be more than sweet." – Lord Valve Lord Valve - WINNER
Response:
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Lord Valve explains to the group who the hateful Ed Blum (aka El > Kabong) is: > Speaking as someone who has put up with *years* > of the creep Ed Blum wishing death on me, wishing > for my shop to burn down, wishing for my business to > be bombed, let me go on the record as saying I hope > Ivan smacks his ass flat and blows away everything > he owns. The karmic rightness of it will be more than > sweet. > I’ll have a steak dinner at the best steakhouse in Denver, > smoke a fine cigar, and grin my fat ass off if it happens. > Lord Valve > Watching > El Kabong reacts: >Did you see anything Wilbur? >I’m still here and all of my stuff is intact, boo hoo hoo. >BTW, I’ll be sending you a bunch of crow shit you can either >eat on a slice of bread or stick it in your pipe and smoke it or >give yourself a crow shit enema. Either way, you richly deserve it. >So, it looks like you’ll be with me another bunch of *years*, >Wilbur, you hateful creep. Ha ha ha ha ha > Then Lord Valve made this daring and prophetic prediction: >Damn shame you lived. >There’ll be another one along soon. >Lord Valve >American > Yep, and the very next year – KABLAMO! > Katrina hits, Blum is in misery and Lord Valve wins again! All that > Blum wished on LV has happened to Blum instead! > "The karmic rightness of it will be more than sweet." – Lord Valve > Lord Valve - WINNER
God bless Lord Valve! I just wish he was still around so I could suck on his ass. And I’m shure you feel the same way. If I ever catch up to that Blumbo stooge, I’m gonna spit on him. All he ever does is make fun out of LV and I hate him for that. I even know more about amps then he does. Notice how many smart folks reply to my new posts about what’s on YouTube? Blum never contributed usefull infor like that, right? That’s why he’s awlays killfiled by me. But I wish those assholes that think like Blumb wouldn’t reply to me. I hate them to.
Response:
> I just wish he was still around so I could suck on his ass. > And I’m shure you feel the same way. > If I ever catch up to that Blumbo stooge, I’m gonna spit on him. > All he ever does is make fun out of LV and I hate him for that. > I even know more about amps then he does. Notice how many > smart folks reply to my new posts about what’s on YouTube? > Blum never contributed usefull infor like that, right? That’s why > he’s awlays killfiled by me. But I wish those assholes that > think like Blumb wouldn’t reply to me. I hate them to.
What a lame-ass troll. Can’t even come up with your own sock, eh? Sure sounds like Blumbles… CV
Response:
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > Lord Valve explains to the group who the hateful Ed Blum (aka El > Kabong) is: > Speaking as someone who has put up with *years* > of the creep Ed Blum wishing death on me, wishing > for my shop to burn down, wishing for my business to > be bombed, let me go on the record as saying I hope > Ivan smacks his ass flat and blows away everything > he owns. The karmic rightness of it will be more than > sweet. > I’ll have a steak dinner at the best steakhouse in Denver, > smoke a fine cigar, and grin my fat ass off if it happens. > Lord Valve > Watching > El Kabong reacts: >Did you see anything Wilbur? >I’m still here and all of my stuff is intact, boo hoo hoo. >BTW, I’ll be sending you a bunch of crow shit you can either >eat on a slice of bread or stick it in your pipe and smoke it or >give yourself a crow shit enema. Either way, you richly deserve it. >So, it looks like you’ll be with me another bunch of *years*, >Wilbur, you hateful creep. Ha ha ha ha ha > Then Lord Valve made this daring and prophetic prediction: >Damn shame you lived. >There’ll be another one along soon. >Lord Valve >American > Yep, and the very next year – KABLAMO! > Katrina hits, Blum is in misery and Lord Valve wins again! All that > Blum wished on LV has happened to Blum instead! > "The karmic rightness of it will be more than sweet." – Lord Valve > Lord Valve - WINNER
You really need to get a life. Chris
Response:
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Lord Valve explains to the group who the hateful Ed Blum (aka El > Kabong) is: > > Speaking as someone who has put up with *years* > > of the creep Ed Blum wishing death on me, wishing > > for my shop to burn down, wishing for my business to > > be bombed, let me go on the record as saying I hope > > Ivan smacks his ass flat and blows away everything > > he owns. The karmic rightness of it will be more than > > sweet. > > I’ll have a steak dinner at the best steakhouse in Denver, > > smoke a fine cigar, and grin my fat ass off if it happens. > > Lord Valve > > Watching > El Kabong reacts: > >Did you see anything Wilbur? > >I’m still here and all of my stuff is intact, boo hoo hoo. > >BTW, I’ll be sending you a bunch of crow shit you can either > >eat on a slice of bread or stick it in your pipe and smoke it or > >give yourself a crow shit enema. Either way, you richly deserve it. > >So, it looks like you’ll be with me another bunch of *years*, > >Wilbur, you hateful creep. Ha ha ha ha ha > Then Lord Valve made this daring and prophetic prediction: > >Damn shame you lived. > >There’ll be another one along soon. > >Lord Valve > >American > Yep, and the very next year – KABLAMO! > Katrina hits, Blum is in misery and Lord Valve wins again! All that > Blum wished on LV has happened to Blum instead! > "The karmic rightness of it will be more than sweet." – Lord Valve > Lord Valve - WINNER > You really need to get a life. > Chris
Thanks Chris, that Bollox guy (posting from giganews.com) keeps on coming up with different socks and all are from the bottom of the sewer. Imagine what kind of slimy mentality it takes to laugh at someone who has to deal with the challenge of rebuilding and restoring after a natural calamity. REPEATING THE TRUTH: I never wished death on LV. I only told him to go die after he told me to go die. I never wished his shop and business would be bombed or set on fire. What I did state was the way LV acts like a big arrogant bigoted bully and character assassin, for him to not be surprised if he pisses off someone enough who just might bomb his shop or set it on fire. After all, his tube sales were never a threat to my business. I never had one person come into the shop with tubes in their amp from him and I never had anyone come in with tubes from him for me to install and bias. So why would I care what that cranky senile old fart does in Denver or what happens to him or his stinkin’ shop? Bottom dwelling scum suckers Bollox and GeenieweenieSki are just like stinkin’ animal turds we accidently step on now and then and as long as they cowardly remain anonymous, they have absolutely no credibility. Good luck with all of your projects – musical and electronic. Ed
Response:
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> I just wish he was still around so I could suck on his ass. > And I’m shure you feel the same way. > If I ever catch up to that Blumbo stooge, I’m gonna spit on him. > All he ever does is make fun out of LV and I hate him for that. > I even know more about amps then he does. Notice how many > smart folks reply to my new posts about what’s on YouTube? > Blum never contributed usefull infor like that, right? That’s why > he’s awlays killfiled by me. But I wish those assholes that > think like Blumb wouldn’t reply to me. I hate them to. >What a lame-ass troll. Can’t even come up with your own sock, eh? Sure >sounds like Blumbles… >CV
That’s someone from bellsouth, so it’s probably Blum. He goes around the whole time insulting everyone all the time he here, and then gets upset that I spit on him like he deserves, so now he’s pretending to be me. Big fuckin deal.
Response:
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> > Lord Valve explains to the group who the hateful Ed Blum (aka El > > Kabong) is: > > > Speaking as someone who has put up with *years* > > > of the creep Ed Blum wishing death on me, wishing > > > for my shop to burn down, wishing for my business to > > > be bombed, let me go on the record as saying I hope > > > Ivan smacks his ass flat and blows away everything > > > he owns. The karmic rightness of it will be more than > > > sweet. > > > I’ll have a steak dinner at the best steakhouse in Denver, > > > smoke a fine cigar, and grin my fat ass off if it happens. > > > Lord Valve > > > Watching >REPEATING THE TRUTH: >I never wished death on LV. I only told him to go die >after he told me to go die.
Wrongo! – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – >Groups: alt.guitar.amps >Thank you Willy so bloody much for speeding up the decay. I guess next year >there won’t be any 7581s available thanks to you. And in the meantime, thank >you for driving up the prices. >I sure hope you die soon. You fucking suck. >EP
hope VERB: hoped , hop
Question:
I called a few times about that book, but never could get through. I emailed ya from two addresses and never heard back. Is it gone? Coz I sure am interested.
Response:
> I called a few times about that book, but never > could get through. I emailed ya from two addresses > and never heard back. Is it gone? Coz I sure am > interested.
Miles, I’m sorry for the delay. I was very busy the last three weeks. I’ll call ya tomorrow after I finish up the second of, I hope the last, plumbing jobs around here. Should be late afternoon some time. Regards, Rich Koerner, Time Electronics. http://www.timeelect.com Specialists in Live Sound FOH Engineering, Music & Studio Production, Vintage Instruments, and Tube Amplifiers
Response:
>> I called a few times about that book, but never > could get through. I emailed ya from two addresses > and never heard back. Is it gone? Coz I sure am > interested. > Miles, I’m sorry for the delay. I was very busy the last three weeks. > I’ll call ya tomorrow after I finish up the second of, I hope the last, plumbing jobs around here. > Should be late afternoon some time.
Don’t know when I’ll be home tomorrow. We have about eight things going on, including company probably coming in sometime tomorrow from another state (death in their family). But if I’m around, I’ll definitely yak with ya! Believe me, I understand busy. Feel free to email me as well. -Miles
Response:
Question:
Anyone know how many volts a Mark II puts on the STR415 plate? Flex
Response:
Way too much, that’s why they go up in smoke.
Response:
The original STR415’s never went up in smoke. Those were Sylvania 7581’s, and they could bear up in a damn Ampeg, and smugly ask if that’s the best you could do. They could certainly and easily take whatever a Boogie Mark II could give them. So anyone know the answer?
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Way too much, that’s why they go up in smoke.
Response:
> Anyone know how many volts a Mark II puts on the STR415 plate? > Flex
Hi, According to the Mk IIB sch(matics(original) I have, voltage at CT on OT is 445V. Sg feed point just before 470 Ohm 2W resistor is 444V. If you have fax number I can fax this sheet or I can scan and email it to you? Tony
Response:
> The original STR415’s never went up in smoke. Those were Sylvania 7581’s, > and they could bear up in a damn Ampeg, and smugly ask if that’s the best > you could do. They could certainly and easily take whatever a Boogie Mark II > could give them.
I was not talking about the STR’s, I was talking about the amplifier. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –
Response:
>> The original STR415’s never went up in smoke. Those were Sylvania 7581’s, > and they could bear up in a damn Ampeg, and smugly ask if that’s the best > you could do. They could certainly and easily take whatever a Boogie Mark II > could give them. >I was not talking about the STR’s, I was talking about the amplifier.
Then please explain why a lot of other amp with much higher plate voltage (MM, Ampeg) don’t "go up in smoke". Some MusicMans put 715V on the plate; The Ampeg V2s I’m working on have 585V on the plates. If your troll was correct, they should have been ashes long ago. -Dave
Response:
sorry of my english , I have some data , I have mark II B plate voltage is 460-470v ,I put sovteks 6L6wxt+ ,and hope that they do the job without smoke zilivss
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Anyone know how many volts a Mark II puts on the STR415 plate? > Flex > Hi, > According to the Mk IIB sch(matics(original) I have, voltage at CT on OT > is 445V. Sg feed point just before 470 Ohm 2W resistor is 444V. > If you have fax number I can fax this sheet or I can scan and email it to > you? > Tony
Response:
No need, man, but thanks anyway. I was just wondering because my Flexi50 with the same Sylvanias inserted, is somewhat louder than an old 60W Boogie, and I wondered why. The THD is set for 475 on the plate, so maybe that’s it. Of course, the real fun starts when you put a STR in one slot, and an old Mullard EL34 in the other. Now we’re talking tone.
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> Anyone know how many volts a Mark II puts on the STR415 plate? > Flex > Hi, > According to the Mk IIB sch(matics(original) I have, voltage at CT on OT > is 445V. Sg feed point just before 470 Ohm 2W resistor is 444V. > If you have fax number I can fax this sheet or I can scan and email it > to you? > Tony
Response:
No Boogie MkII I’ve heard of ever went up in smoke. Damn things were so overbuilt, you could probably run them at 220V and they’d just get louder. Of course tone is a matter of taste, and theirs certainly isn’t for everyone. But if there was ever a more *rugged* amp, I certainly haven’t found it. Maybe someone has an ax to grind?
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> The original STR415’s never went up in smoke. Those were Sylvania 7581’s, > and they could bear up in a damn Ampeg, and smugly ask if that’s the best > you could do. They could certainly and easily take whatever a Boogie Mark II > could give them. > I was not talking about the STR’s, I was talking about the amplifier.
Response:
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > No need, man, but thanks anyway. I was just wondering because my Flexi50 > with the same Sylvanias inserted, is somewhat louder than an old 60W Boogie, > and I wondered why. The THD is set for 475 on the plate, so maybe that’s it. > Of course, the real fun starts when you put a STR in one slot, and an old > Mullard EL34 in the other. Now we’re talking tone. >>Anyone know how many volts a Mark II puts on the STR415 plate? >>Flex >Hi, >According to the Mk IIB sch(matics(original) I have, voltage at CT on OT >is 445V. Sg feed point just before 470 Ohm 2W resistor is 444V. >If you have fax number I can fax this sheet or I can scan and email it >to you? >Tony
Hi, Went thru quite a few Boogies. DC series, MK-II to IV(still have it) and even Coliseum. None of them ever smoked on me. Tone? I compare tone of an amp against Guytron GT-100(with mod. B), Soldano SLO, Marshall JMP(have all 3) If I must ever choose only one amp, it’d be Guytron. I know there are whole lot more out there but I am always impressed with Guytron. Another amp which belongs to a neighbor is Bogner Uberscall. I wouldn’t mind having one of those. Tony
Response:
>But if there was ever a more *rugged* amp, I certainly haven’t >found it.
Not so sure about that (past amps, maybe). I saw a new one the other day that had *sheetrock screws* holding the back panel on (not that there’s anything *wrong* with that…). I’d been wondering when and who would start doing that. I’m not saying they’re not road-worthy, but they’re not what they used to be (like all others, it seems). There were definitely more rugged amps built (like those 2 I mentioned in an earlier post). -Dave
Response:
> Then please explain why a lot of other amp with much higher plate > voltage (MM, Ampeg) don’t "go up in smoke". Some MusicMans put 715V on > the plate; The Ampeg V2s I’m working on have 585V on the plates. If > your troll was correct, they should have been ashes long ago. > -Dave
They are in ashes, and well known for it. the primary problem is arching across the circuit traces on a (very) poorly designed fiberglass circuit board. im not going to compare your MB to well designed amps such as (real) ampegs and musicmans. do not confuse (real) ampegs with the fake SLM ampegs. Hats off to Mike Mathews, forefather and designer of the graetest amps ever built. Hats off to Jim Marshall – dito. Shame on you, R.S. for claiming that you "invented high gain tube amplification" thousands of us know that you did not do this, nor do you deserve credit.
Response:
hats off to dan armstrong, pioneer of high gain amplification.
Response:
>> Then please explain why a lot of other amp with much higher plate > voltage (MM, Ampeg) don’t "go up in smoke". Some MusicMans put 715V on > the plate; The Ampeg V2s I’m working on have 585V on the plates. If > your troll was correct, they should have been ashes long ago. > -Dave >They are in ashes, and well known for it. >the primary problem is arching across the >circuit traces on a (very) poorly designed >fiberglass circuit board.
Awful lot old Ampegs still thumpin’ out there, myke. One of the V2s I just finished (a ‘73) had finally worn out it’s original 7027As (I happened to have a NOS MP). >im not going to compare your MB to well >designed amps such as (real) ampegs and >musicmans. do not confuse (real) ampegs >with the fake SLM ampegs.
You mean "Crate-Pegs"? Not the same animal. Not the same Vp. By mentioning MM at the same time (and the high Vp), I was thinking *you* wouldn’t confuse them. Do they even make a new V2??? At any rate; Point is: You said: "Way too much" plate voltage causes Mesa amps to "go up in smoke". *I’m* comparing their plate voltages. Let’s see, the MB puts about 445V on the plate. Hmmm. The amps I mentioned hit the plates a lot harder. "Way too much"? -Dave
Response:
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->> Then please explain why a lot of other amp with much higher plate >> voltage (MM, Ampeg) don’t "go up in smoke". Some MusicMans put 715V on >> the plate; The Ampeg V2s I’m working on have 585V on the plates. If >> your troll was correct, they should have been ashes long ago. >> -Dave >They are in ashes, and well known for it. >the primary problem is arching across the >circuit traces on a (very) poorly designed >fiberglass circuit board. > Awful lot old Ampegs still thumpin’ out there, myke. One of the V2s I > just finished (a ‘73) had finally worn out it’s original 7027As (I > happened to have a NOS MP). >im not going to compare your MB to well >designed amps such as (real) ampegs and >musicmans. do not confuse (real) ampegs >with the fake SLM ampegs. > You mean "Crate-Pegs"? Not the same animal. Not the same Vp. > By mentioning MM at the same time (and the high Vp), I was thinking > *you* wouldn’t confuse them. Do they even make a new V2??? > At any rate; > Point is: You said: "Way too much" plate voltage causes Mesa amps to > "go up in smoke". *I’m* comparing their plate voltages. Let’s see, the > MB puts about 445V on the plate. Hmmm. The amps I mentioned hit the > plates a lot harder. > "Way too much"? > -Dave
Hell, there are Fenders that put more than 445VDC on a 6L6 plate. That’s pretty middling for big bottle class AB. When the answer to my question came back, I was surprised it was that LOW. It’s not like M/B was way out on the bleeding edge in that regard, even leaving out your Ampegs and MusicMans. What does a late 60s/early 70s Fender Twin put on the plate? Just for comparison’s sake — I’d think 450, anyway. Anyone have that spec? Flex
Response:
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> >> Then please explain why a lot of other amp with much higher plate > >> voltage (MM, Ampeg) don’t "go up in smoke". Some MusicMans put 715V on > >> the plate; The Ampeg V2s I’m working on have 585V on the plates. If > >> your troll was correct, they should have been ashes long ago. > >> -Dave > >They are in ashes, and well known for it. > >the primary problem is arching across the > >circuit traces on a (very) poorly designed > >fiberglass circuit board. > Awful lot old Ampegs still thumpin’ out there, myke. One of the V2s I > just finished (a ‘73) had finally worn out it’s original 7027As (I > happened to have a NOS MP). > >im not going to compare your MB to well > >designed amps such as (real) ampegs and > >musicmans. do not confuse (real) ampegs > >with the fake SLM ampegs. > You mean "Crate-Pegs"? Not the same animal. Not the same Vp. > By mentioning MM at the same time (and the high Vp), I was thinking > *you* wouldn’t confuse them. Do they even make a new V2??? > At any rate; > Point is: You said: "Way too much" plate voltage causes Mesa amps to > "go up in smoke". *I’m* comparing their plate voltages. Let’s see, the > MB puts about 445V on the plate. Hmmm. The amps I mentioned hit the > plates a lot harder. > "Way too much"? > -Dave >Hell, there are Fenders that put more than 445VDC on a 6L6 plate. That’s >pretty middling for big bottle class AB. When the answer to my question came >back, I was surprised it was that LOW. It’s not like M/B was way out on the >bleeding edge in that regard, even leaving out your Ampegs and MusicMans. >What does a late 60s/early 70s Fender Twin put on the plate? Just for >comparison’s sake — I’d think 450, anyway. Anyone have that spec?
Yup, 450 or a little more, IIRC. They’re just ashes waiting to happen, I guess. ;o) -Dave
Response:
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->> >> Then please explain why a lot of other amp with much higher plate >> >> voltage (MM, Ampeg) don’t "go up in smoke". Some MusicMans put 715V on >> >> the plate; The Ampeg V2s I’m working on have 585V on the plates. If >> >> your troll was correct, they should have been ashes long ago. >> >> -Dave >> >They are in ashes, and well known for it. >> >the primary problem is arching across the >> >circuit traces on a (very) poorly designed >> >fiberglass circuit board. >> Awful lot old Ampegs still thumpin’ out there, myke. One of the V2s I >> just finished (a ‘73) had finally worn out it’s original 7027As (I >> happened to have a NOS MP). >> >im not going to compare your MB to well >> >designed amps such as (real) ampegs and >> >musicmans. do not confuse (real) ampegs >> >with the fake SLM ampegs. >> You mean "Crate-Pegs"? Not the same animal. Not the same Vp. >> By mentioning MM at the same time (and the high Vp), I was thinking >> *you* wouldn’t confuse them. Do they even make a new V2??? >> At any rate; >> Point is: You said: "Way too much" plate voltage causes Mesa amps to >> "go up in smoke". *I’m* comparing their plate voltages. Let’s see, the >> MB puts about 445V on the plate. Hmmm. The amps I mentioned hit the >> plates a lot harder. >> "Way too much"? >> -Dave >Hell, there are Fenders that put more than 445VDC on a 6L6 plate. That’s >pretty middling for big bottle class AB. When the answer to my question came >back, I was surprised it was that LOW. It’s not like M/B was way out on the >bleeding edge in that regard, even leaving out your Ampegs and MusicMans. >What does a late 60s/early 70s Fender Twin put on the plate? Just for >comparison’s sake — I’d think 450, anyway. Anyone have that spec? > Yup, 450 or a little more, IIRC. They’re just ashes waiting to happen, > I guess. > ;o) > -Dave
Yeah… "Way too much"… That madcap Leo, we just knew his stuff would never hold up. That must be why nobody will pay any kind of money for used Fender amps from the 60s and early 70s. They can’t give ‘em away for free on Ebay. And at 475, my THD is in BIG trouble. I guess Andy Marshall is barking nuts as well. I’ll have to enjoy it while it lasts. Thank God for warranties. Flex
Response:
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->>The original STR415’s never went up in smoke. Those were Sylvania 7581’s, >>and they could bear up in a damn Ampeg, and smugly ask if that’s the best >>you could do. They could certainly and easily take whatever a Boogie Mark II >>could give them. >I was not talking about the STR’s, I was talking about the amplifier. > Then please explain why a lot of other amp with much higher plate > voltage (MM, Ampeg) don’t "go up in smoke". Some MusicMans put 715V on > the plate; The Ampeg V2s I’m working on have 585V on the plates. If > your troll was correct, they should have been ashes long ago. > -Dave
This character frequently gives a one liner "fire extinguisher" comment, then never explains… IIRC, my Mark III is at about 450V, very close to my Super Reverb. My vintage Univox is at 680 range. 720 if running only one pair of output tubes. I currently have a mediocre set of Sovtek 5881WXT in there, because that kind of voltage seems excessive. …but it runs just fine.
Response:
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text ->>>The original STR415’s never went up in smoke. Those were Sylvania 7581’s, >>>and they could bear up in a damn Ampeg, and smugly ask if that’s the best >>>you could do. They could certainly and easily take whatever a Boogie Mark II >>>could give them. >>I was not talking about the STR’s, I was talking about the amplifier. > Then please explain why a lot of other amp with much higher plate > voltage (MM, Ampeg) don’t "go up in smoke". Some MusicMans put 715V on > the plate; The Ampeg V2s I’m working on have 585V on the plates. If > your troll was correct, they should have been ashes long ago. > -Dave >This character frequently gives a one liner "fire extinguisher" comment, >then never explains…
‘Cause he can’t. Kinda like the "aluminum increases resistance with age" comment. I think he just tosses the BS out there for troll purposes. >IIRC, my Mark III is at about 450V, very close to my Super Reverb. >My vintage Univox is at 680 range. 720 if running only one pair of >output tubes. I currently have a mediocre set of Sovtek 5881WXT in >there, because that kind of voltage seems excessive. …but it runs >just fine.
Ashes, Jim. "Way too much" "up in smoke", indeed! ;o) -Dave
Response:
Question:
The Mark Foley action figure: http://cgi.ebay.com/congressman-mark-foley-action-figure-Spectrestudi… 0QQitemZ230039721735QQihZ013QQcategoryZ1469QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZV iewItem
Response:
> The Mark Foley action figure: > http://cgi.ebay.com/congressman-mark-foley-action-figure-Spectrestudi… > 0QQitemZ230039721735QQihZ013QQcategoryZ1469QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZV > iewItem
The link doesn’t work, but if you go to ebay and just enter ‘mark foley’, it, and a number of other items come up. This particular one has a LOT of bids and is at around $255 right now! I also like the button, ‘Mark Foley, what Page are you on now’! It’s no surprise that Republicans are soooo homophobic. Most of them are in denial about their own gay tendencies. It’s amazing that the likes of Cheny, Bush and Rumsfeld could ever procreate at all. One look, and you can tell they don’t like women at all!
Response:
- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> The Mark Foley action figure: > http://cgi.ebay.com/congressman-mark-foley-action-figure-Spectrestudi… > 0QQitemZ230039721735QQihZ013QQcategoryZ1469QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZV > iewItem > The link doesn’t work, but if you go to ebay and just enter ‘mark > foley’, it, and a number of other items come up. This particular one > has a LOT of bids and is at around $255 right now! > I also like the button, ‘Mark Foley, what Page are you on now’! > It’s no surprise that Republicans are soooo homophobic. Most of them > are in denial about their own gay tendencies. It’s amazing that the > likes of Cheny, Bush and Rumsfeld could ever procreate at all. One > look, and you can tell they don’t like women at all!
Personally, I don’t see how *any* woman in her right mind would find any of those creepy reptiles desirable. Cheney, the chickenhawk "tough guy" trying to look tough by talking out of the side of his mouth with lies. Bush, the puppet dictator with hallucinations of grandeur. Rumsfeld, the combination of a dirty old man and a ghoulish death worshipper. Space aliens need to kidnap those warmongering war-profiteers and do bizarre experiments on them then toss their bodies on some other planet for used only for landfill.
Response:
> Space aliens need to kidnap those warmongering war-profiteers > and do bizarre experiments on them then toss their bodies on some > other planet for used only for landfill.
Folks… ya can’t even make up shit this good. This is the ‘real deal’ from ol’ Elmis Kaplonk…. Ed, knock off the booze..! ! ! ! Yer back-sliding..! ! ! ! ! ! Get to work on those amps you’re designing..! ! ! ! ! !
Response:
Question:
Installing a bias pot and biasing a 5F6A: NOTE: The math below was OK, what’s wrong is the max rating; initially applied…OOPS! 20 watts would’ve been about right for an old metal or Coke-bottle 6L6! The Maximum Dissipation rating for a r-e-a-l 6L6GC is ___watts. A 6L6GB or 5881 is 25 watts, and a 7581A is 35 watts (- source: Sylvania and RCA tube manuals). A reasonable percentage to use for a Class AB amp would be 60-70%, so recalculating, I was barely in the ball park, running cold. "…I removed R41 and replaced it with a 50K cermet potentiometer (15 turns lock to lock) in series with a 27K 1/4 watt resistor. This makes it so that when the pot is more or less centered, it will be the stock 51K ohm value and allow me to adjust the bias + or – from the stock value. I measured R41 with my DMM and it turned out to be 50.1K ohms, so I adjusted the cermet pot /resistor combination to read that value. Now I’ve got the same resistance that I had when I started the mod. I mounted the pot and resistor combination right between and slightly to the rear of the spot that R41 had previously occupied, and secured it with a tiny drop of super glue. To remove R41 I simply cut the wires of the resistor off right at the resistor, which left me about 3/8" of wire that I soldered the pot/resistor combination to. If you use hemostats for a heat sink and work quickly, you won’t overheat the old resistor leads from the back side of the circuit board and wind up with a cold solder joint. Originally, I had intended to remove the circuit board but I decided against it because it looks real labor intensive to get it out of there without screwing the wiring up. You’d have to remove all the pots and the control PCB, the power lamp and probably the input jacks too. Then you gotta deal with the transformer wires, the tube wires and, and…YUCK. So I did it this way, and it came out solid. I was only on the wires for about 3 seconds to get ‘em soldered, so I think I’m ok. Plus, I clipped my DVM in place afterward and lightly stressed the wires where they go into the PCB, and the resistance didn’t waver. If I had heated the joints too much I most likely would have seen a change in resistance at the DMM. But having used the hemostats for a heat sink, I’m confident things are fine. BIASING THE 5F6A Put the solid state rectifier in before I go changing the bias, since there is a pretty good voltage drop with the tube rectifier. I think it’s 20 or 30 volts. I’ll measure that too. By the way, what you’re really interested in is the quiescent, or idling, wattage the tube dissipates. I understand that you don’t want to exceed 70% of the tube’s rated wattage at a no-signal or quiescent condition. A 6L6GC is rated at 19 watts*** (some say 23) or so, so I don’t want to go above 14 watts or so.; You get the wattage by measuring the plate voltage on the tube and multiplying it by the plate current. In the Bassman, the cathodes are grounded, so you don’t need to consider their voltage in the calculation. In other amps like the Fender Champs, which have a resistor to ground from the cathode, you have to subtract that voltage from the plate voltage prior to doing the multiplication by plate current to arrive at the final answer in watts. Just like a light bulb, which is a real close cousin to the electron tube, the 100 watt bulbs burn hotter than 25 watt bulbs do. And they burn out faster. The point to all of this is that I think the so called ‘Amp Gurus’ are doing the players an injustice because it’s not just the current in milliamps that you have to consider when biasing an amp. The plate voltage makes a directly proportional difference in how much current passes through the tube! (plate voltage * plate current = watts) and it’s the wattage that we needto consider. Oh well I may be anal, but I’m not going to burn up expensive output tubes anymore, or fry an output transformer either! RESULTS: Here
Question:
Recently purchased a Behringer UltraAcoustic AT108. Amp sounds fine when used alone, I have no issues with it. However, when I connected it yesterday to a sound system at a gig, going from the headphone out jack into a mixer, there was a terrible buzzing noise. The only way around it was to set the volume on the amp very low — near 1 or 2. To make sure it wasn’t the guitar, cords, mixer, speaker, or anything else that was causing it, we substituted a similar sized and wattage Peavey combo amp and everything sounded perfect — it was obviously the Behringer. My question is this: is something wrong with this particular Behringer, with all Behringers, or am I doing something wrong when I hook it up? I am following the connection example from the user manual directly, so I don’t think that is it. I bought it only because it was an "acoustic amp", and I figured I would get a nice sound out of my Ovation Celebrity with it, but when I used my friend’s Peavey yesterday, it sounded identical, if not better, and it has no issues when plugged into a PA system. Should I return this amp?
Response:
> Recently purchased a Behringer UltraAcoustic AT108. Amp sounds fine > when used alone, I have no issues with it. However, when I connected it > yesterday to a sound system at a gig, going from the headphone out jack > into a mixer, there was a terrible buzzing noise. The only way around > it was to set the volume on the amp very low — near 1 or 2. > The headphone out is a stereo jack(3 conductor). by pluging
a mono plug (2 conductor) into this jack, you are shorting out one channel of the headphone amp to ground. This accounts for the buzzing noise. If you have not blown out the headphone amp by doing this (you may have already) you need a "Y" cord with 3 conductor stereo plug on one end ( headphone jack end) and two mono plugs on the other two ends of the "Y". one of these mono plugs can go to an external mixer. however dont you have a mono line out on the AT108? This is what you SHOULD be using. You can buy a Y cord at radio shack or other electronic
Response:
here is a link to the on line manual: http://www.behringer.com/AT108/index.cfm?lang=ENG there is a mistake in this manual that tells you to hook a mono plug to the headphone jack, dont do this. you can only connect a 3 conductor stereo (TRS) plug to the headphone jack, buy the "Y" cord from radio shack as I have said, and this should solve the problem. There is a picture of a Y cord like this on page 7 of the manual. Only instead of RCA plugs, you want 1/4" phone plugs on all three ends. your Y cord should be 1X stereo plug (TRS) to 2X mono (TS) 1/4" plugs. OK so if the circuitry has not been shorted out, this should work ok. no its not the amps fault, the instructions have a mistake written in them, which you followed, not your fault at all.
Response:
> > when I connected it yesterday to a sound system at a gig, going from > the headphone out jack into a mixer, there was a terrible buzzing > noise. > you need a "Y" cord with 3 conductor stereo plug on one end and two > mono plugs on the other two ends of the "Y". > however dont you have a mono line out on the AT108?
No, the AT108 didn’t have a mono line out. Shortly after you posted your reply, I was contacted by a tech at Behringer who suggested I use a Behringer ULTRA-DI DI20 box to eliminate ground loops. Short story: I bought the DI20, it didn’t work. Not only that, the Behringer AT108 amp "blew up" (there was a lot of foul plastic-smelling smoke emanating from it) and completely fried itself shortly afterward. Not sure if the DI box was the cause of it, but in any case, I’m now in the market for a new amp for my acoustic. Any recommendations?
Response:
Previous page