Ask Amp Tech Expert Skip Simmons

Hey Skip, I originally had this question in the gear section but this amp seems very rare. I then saw on your site that you had worked on one of these amps once. I have an opportunity to purchase a Flot-A-Tone Model 600 Reverb. How would you rate the build quality of these amps?
How would they sound for harp?

Cheers

John

I said that it's a good idea to experiment with speakers, but forgot to mention the importance of using speaker cable, not shielded mic (or guitar) cable. If you have a cord that you aren't sure of, you may need to unscrew the plug's cover to see what you have. If you are doing your own speaker wiring on a combo amp, don't bother with the super high-fidelity wire like Monster Cable. It's hard to solder and has no advantage over standard 14 gauge wire.

Skip Simmons

Skip Simmons Amp Repair

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. continue reading...

Join your local Blues Society! Many of them are now hosting "jam nights", which gives everyone a chance to jam (and learn!) in a real band setting. This is an experience that can't be duplicated out in your garage when the family is at the store, so join up! Don't worry about not being "good enough;" it's all about meeting people and getting a chance to play with a band. Believe me, it's a lot more fun than playing along with your stereo.

Skip Simmons

Skip Simmons Amp Repair

I know I'm always saying "don't mess with your amp", but experimenting with speakers can be a lot of fun. The key is to TRY as many speakers as possible without having to BUY them! One thing that makes it easy is a 10 foot speaker cord (NOT a mic cord!), plus two key additions. The first is called a 1/4" coupler. When put on one end of your speaker cable, the coupler will change the cable from male to female. Why, you ask? So you can easily plug your amp into the speakers of a combo amp. The next addition is a good soldering project....... continue reading...

If you only have one amp, make it a small one. Fifteen watts or less. You will be more welcome at jams, and the constant problem of feedback will be easier to deal with. Needless to say, the all-important woodshedding will be much easier on both you and neighbors, friends, family, dogs, etc. When you start playing a lot of big stages or outdoor gigs, it's time to get something with more power.

Skip Simmons

Skip Simmons Amp Repair

Hi Skip
I am thinking of getting a Epiphone valve junior amp with eminence speaker this will be my first amp and I would be using a shure sm57 mic any thoughts please.
Ron

Hi all, continue reading...

I will be at the Bay Area World Guitar Show, Saturday, July 31 and Sunday, August 1, at the Marin Civic Center in San Rafael. Stop by my booth to drop-off/pick-up amps or just to yak.

I know it's a guitar show, and you're all harp players, but there will be more vintage amps (that you can actually try out!) in one room than you've ever seen before. Bring your mics. It's $15 admission. continue reading...

Hi all,
Well, it's everyones fault that I have the "Amp" Bug. ( just kidding)
For the last few days, I have been searching, and researching amps and information concerning those little buggers.
As I stated in my last posting, I explained I have a Pevey 212 classic duece. But the fact is, its just too dang large. Matter a fact, it's a monster.
So- I have been searching for the ultimate sounding small amp. continue reading...