Ask Amp Tech Expert Skip Simmons

I have a Epiphone Galaxie 10. I swapped the stock sovtek 12ax7 with a EH 12at7 and I like the sound. I want to swap the sovtek 6L6 power tube and the stock speaker to get vintage Chicago tone. Any suggestions? I was looking at an alnico weber but don't know if it will fit.

Skip,
I also have a Sonny Jr1....do you think this amp is more touch sensitive and more apt to give feedback...If so what can you do to combat this?
Mine is in pristine condition.
Steve

Hey Skip, I have a Sonny Junior One. I have swapped out the power resistor and changed the rectifier to a 5u4. I have read of a transformer upgrade from David Allen that may give you 10 to 15 percent more punch. Would you recommend this upgrade and how easy is it to do myself?

Hi Skip,

I wonder if you, David or anyone else can answer the following questions for me please.

In general when using a '59 Bassman LTD for harmonica and a JT30 with CM element, is it better to use a 5AR4/GZ34 or 5U4G rectifier tube?
Are their any major advantages/disadvantages to using either?
Also if you fit a 5U4G do you need to re-bias the amp or can it just be swapped straight out?

I currently have mine set up with V1 = 12AY7, V2 = 12AX7, V3 = 12AX7, 2 X 6L6GC , GZ34.

Hello Skip! You've been the go-to guy for a LONG time in regards to harmonica amplification. In your many years of experience with artists what are the most common/favored amps out there?

Also tell us a little about why tube PA systems (like the Masco) are so cool. Thanks!

Hi Skip,
What do you think of the King Royale 2 x 12 as a harp amp?
it has 4ea..EL84s and 30 amps..
Classic Class A circuit...

http://www.tophatamps.com/king_royale.htm

Thank you!!
Steve

I am in the market for a new amp and want to know how you would compare the 3 amps below and what you would perfer for your
playing style. What do you find in regard to tone for each for that Chigaco blues sound. What do most your other collegues play through?

David, Feel free to chime in with your opinion sa well.

Meteor Mini meat or new Mini-15
Sonny jr Cruncher
Harp gear 35
other

Thanks for your opinion.
528hemi

I'm a tinkerer. When I wanted to make my own beer, I built a fully automated 1/2 barrel stainless steel brewery that keeps process temperatures within 1/2 a degree. When I wanted a nice set of golf clubs, I learned all about club making and built my own set to my specifications. Now that I'm getting into harmonica, I'm wondering if building an amp would be a nice project and get me exactly what I want, too. continue reading...

I read an earlier thread in relationto the Kinder ant-feedback device (Blue Box). I have one and also have a Harp King 6x10. You noted the possibility of having tonal issues with these units and it peaked my interest. While I love the ability to avoid feedback and always be heard, I have struggled with trying to "warm" the tone up. If only I could get the tone that David demonstdrated so well with his video combined with the volume of the HK - what a deal. continue reading...

Hello Skip,
What is your opinion on the Sonny JR 1?
Thanks!
Steve