django49
New Member
Stuff happens. I recently had TWO amps (neither newer, but neither abused). The Mesa (Blue Angel) blew a fuse when coming off standby. Did the usual test of tubes, looking first at the rectifier tube. When it still blew, it was apparent the issue was deeper. Sure enough, there was something in the circuit (other than tubes) that went bad,
On the Swart (AST) it was a repeat issue with horrible static/feedback. The prior tech seemed to have a good reputation, but clearly did NOT fix it. I then found a GOOD tech. Guess what? He saw the problem as soon as he pulled out the chassis......A place where wires came together was NOT soldered (could not tell if it was a problem from the factory or has become undone). The vibrations inside the combo cab were enough to make it put out unbearable sounds.
These are both great sounding amps......At fairly nominal cost, I got both up and running.....Key being someone that knows their stuff.
Naturally, if it is a NEW amp that is still under warranty (or can be returned to the dealer) that should work out even better, aside from the PITA of having to ship gear around if, like me, there is not a factory authorized tech nearby.
On the Swart (AST) it was a repeat issue with horrible static/feedback. The prior tech seemed to have a good reputation, but clearly did NOT fix it. I then found a GOOD tech. Guess what? He saw the problem as soon as he pulled out the chassis......A place where wires came together was NOT soldered (could not tell if it was a problem from the factory or has become undone). The vibrations inside the combo cab were enough to make it put out unbearable sounds.
These are both great sounding amps......At fairly nominal cost, I got both up and running.....Key being someone that knows their stuff.
Naturally, if it is a NEW amp that is still under warranty (or can be returned to the dealer) that should work out even better, aside from the PITA of having to ship gear around if, like me, there is not a factory authorized tech nearby.