Ask Amp Tech Expert Skip Simmons

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...

~ Ok, amp people- I have a peavy classic 212 deuce amp. It sounds nice to me, but I am no tone specialist.
It also has plenty of volume for large rooms. I'm thinking I should still search out the best amp, or should I stick with what I have. However it's a monster to carry.

Can someone list me the pros and cons of this amp? Maybe let me know how old it is? The serial number is 9a-451234 if that helps with the year, and btw it has 6L6gc tubes- (maybe changing the tubes might bring a better tone?) Or should I make it a boat anchor and keep on searching?

Thoughts and advice? continue reading...

These thoughts are for all you people just starting out with amplified harp...... continue reading...

Skip I actually have two questions. Do you have a good source for vintage Jensen P10r speakers.

Are the Weber VST 10" 10A125 (Which is supposed to be a replacement for the Jensen P10q) actually comparable to a vintage speaker.

Skip,

Is there an easy way to measure the input impedance of my microphone in and instrument 1and 2 inputs on my amp.
When I plug my crystal or deramic mics directly into the amp the output is not loud like my Shure CR's or EV 638's
If I plug my crystals into my BBE two timer delay first the output is awesome. I assume the inputs are not optimized for very high impedance mics.

To measure the input impedance can I just plug a 1/4 cable into the input jack and just measure the resistance? Would this be the input impedance of the amp input?

Thanks 528hemi

Hi Skip,

In general can you describe what would be expected tone wise when for example changing the pre-amp tube
in my 8 watt amp from a 12At7 to a 12AX7 or a 12Ay7? WIll going fro mthe 12At7 to a 12X7 make the amp break up sooner?
Does going from a 12At7 to a 12Ay7 make the amp cleaner?

How does this all work?

David,
feel free to respond :) I know Skip is having issues posting.

Thanks 528hemi

Skip's having some posting issues on the site. He's hearin' you guys and will reply as soon as we get it fixed.

Skip,

Do you have experience with the RCA 7591 tubes? Are they considered a superior tube compared to JJ or other brands like Westinghouse or Sylvania?
Just want your overall impression.

Thanks 528hemi

Hi,
Is a Silvertone 1472 a good amp for harp?

Thanks 528hemi