Ask Jack

Got a question? Need help? Having an issue with an amplifier or have an audio technical question? You might not even have to bring your amp in. Ask Jack at jack@audiotechaustin.com
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Q: Hey Jack, Just wondering, would it be hard to put an effects loop on my ‘79 JMP? Also, would it affect the tone of the amp? Thanks.

A: It’s touchy. WHAT you plug into it CAN effect loading (tone) and it can also pick up noise like lighting dimmers. But it could work for small clubs. Personally, I like to leave those unmolested. But it’s your call, brother. Jack ;)
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Q: Jack, I have come into an early 1990′s Peavey Classic 50 4×10 amp. Would like to know if you recommend any Mods for it needs to be cleaned up and have all the tubes checked (maybe replaced with something better). Would also like to discuss possible speaker replacement options.

A: Hi Brad, aside from basic mods which do not change electronic design parameters, mods such as the addition of a bias control or a 3-wire ac grounded line cord, we do not recommend modifying amplifiers. Yes, there are numerous amplifier modifications which were developed over the years by various self appointed amp gurus, but sometimes they work, and sometimes they don’t. Having worked as an R&D tech at DBX, one of the word’s most respected manufacturers of professional audio signal processors, I know better.

The BEST audio designs comes from TEAMS of design professionals. So I do not assume for one second that I, or any other individual for that matter, is going to sit here in their little workshop and redesign something which was produced by an engineering design team operating on a six or seven figure annual budget.

Though there ARE “bad” design departments out there, they are generally few and far between. Peavey is NOT one of them. People may say what ever they want about Peavey, but the fact of the matter is their designs have been proven thenselves to be VERY reliable over time. And quite frankly, that’s more than I can say for the absolute new CRAP that’s now being put out by the “big 3″ Fender, Marshall, and Ampeg.

You’ve got a good reliable amp there Brad, but “it IS what it IS” so to speak. The question is, can it do what you want it to? If so, then I suggest you go through it, clean it up, and restore it. If not, then I suggest you just let it go and move on. Yes, there may be a couple of guys in town that may offer to “mod” the amp for you. But in the end, you will just have an over priced “Mickey Moused” amplifier. And that’s the truth of the matter.

Thanks for your time and interest in Audiotech Austin. Good Luck and Best Wishes,
Jack