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Topic: Transformers in Twin Reverb |
Paul Sutherland
From:
Placerville, California
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Posted 10 Nov 2016 9:51 am |
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I've heard it said that the Twin Reverb sounds so good largely because of the substantial (heavy) transformers. Do you think that is accurate?
Related question: What would be the effect on the tone of an otherwise very well built tube amp, with a typical fender configuration, if the output transformer is undersized? How would that affect tone?
Finally: I've heard that some guitar player like the Fender Bassman over the Bandmaster and other similar 2 6L6 fender amps. I understand the Bassman has a larger and heavier transformer. Is that true, and if so, how does the larger transformer affect tone?
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It don't mean a thing if it ain't got that swing.
Last edited by Paul Sutherland on 10 Nov 2016 11:08 am; edited 1 time in total |
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J Fletcher
From:
London,Ont,Canada
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Posted 10 Nov 2016 10:20 am
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| The Bassman output transformer was likely designed to have an extended low frequency response. More wire and more metal. |
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Steven Paris
From:
Los Angeles
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Posted 10 Nov 2016 10:00 pm
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The Mercury Magnetics guys (http://www.mercurymagnetics.com/pages/mainframe.htm) supply transformers to many boutique amp builders (Milkman, for one) and have a lot to say about transformers. Probably worth contacting them.
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Emmons & Peavey |
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Tony Prior
From:
Charlotte NC
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Posted 11 Nov 2016 1:05 am
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a very good read, way better than I could have said !
http://www.victoriaamp.com/understanding-your-output-transformer-part-one-by-mark-baier/
The only real life problem with this is if we continuously drive the smaller or incorrect matched OT with a power amp designed for more power than the OT can handle,and we run it it at the so called SWEET spot all the time, it can crash and burn.
I personally have never seen a Fender OT crash and burn in a Fender amp, but other amps,yes, where the OT was literally to small for the task, and the amps sounded awesome, until they didn't ! I have also never seen anyone go BACKWARDS with a Fender OT.
People like the Bassmans because they are a rated 50 watt amp and do have a bit beefier OT which means they can be driven a but harder to get that SWEET spot and it really is not any LOUDER. I know folks who have put a Bassman OT in a Bandmaster, but not the other direction.
I would try it though whats the worst that can happen, ? Probably nothing !
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Emmons L-II , Fender Telecasters, B-Benders , Eastman Mandolin ,
Pro Tools 12 on WIN 7 !
jobless- but not homeless- now retired 9 years
CURRENT MUSIC TRACKS AT > https://tprior2241.wixsite.com/website |
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Paul Sutherland
From:
Placerville, California
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Posted 11 Nov 2016 1:18 am
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Thanks for all the responses. I've been reading and now realize I had forgotten about the differences between a power transformer and an output transformer. It does appear from what I've read that size matters, and bigger (heavier) is generally better. But the subject is really way beyond me.
Some years ago I did modify an Epiphone Valve Jr. 5 watt amp putting in a much larger Hammond power transformer, and the amp really sounded much better. Of course that amp is not appropriate for clean, sweet psg tone. I did that very slowly and carefully following written instructions. I wouldn't know where to start on a double 6L6 style amp. Probably best to do nothing.
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It don't mean a thing if it ain't got that swing. |
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