Fender Champion 600
I just bought a Fender Champion 600 for playing around the house. All my other amps are just TOO loud for home use. So far I am really pleased with the amp (for what it is and what it cost). I retubed with a JJ 6V6 and a JJ ECC 83 which sounded very good with a guitar, not so much with harp. I was amazed that this amp is as loud as it is with a harp mic (older JT 30) and even guitar. I think the original tubes actually sounded better for harp. So I swapped again, this time with a Jan Phillips 5751 (and JJ 6V6) and so far I think this combo sounds best for harp. The gain is under control and it doesn't seem as loud. Can I drop down one more stage on the pre amp to get breakup with even less volume? What is the next step down 12au7? Basically I am trying to get this thing as quiet (less volume) as possible, while still getting a nice breakup. Would changing the power tube help at all? I would love to hear any recommendations. I am just trying to get a passable, "non tone snob" tone at "sleeping family" levels. Thanks!
EDIT: What I am trying to say is that I am happy with the tone I have now, I just want to drop the volume a bit.
Thanks Skip, I had been thinking about putting it in the closet (or bathroom for some echo effect). I will try the 12au7 and report back.
Thanks Skip, I had been thinking about putting it in the closet (or bathroom for some echo effect). I will try the 12au7 and report back.
Hello Johnny- Well I think you are on the right track. This type of experimentation is much better (in my opinion) than actual circuit modifications.
Yes, the 12AU7 would be the next lower-gain sub, but you will be the judge of the results tone-wise.
I would suggest that you "baffle" the amp a bit by putting it in a closet or even throwing a blanket or something in front of the speaker. Make sure that the amp can still breathe....don't cut off all the ventilation for the tubes, they get HOT. If you put the amp in a closet and play outside the closet with the door mostly closed, it will sound pretty cool with a lot less "family trouble!"