Using the passive loop

[pedro]

Is it worth trying to use any effects in the passive loop without a dumbleator circuit ?

just wondering whether to build a dumbleator ?

Rgds
Pete

[stelligan]

pedro,

I use a Yamaha Magic Stomp in the loop sometimes without the d'Lator and it works just fine - so too did a Lexicon MPX-100 or 500. It depends upon the gain structure of the device - whether or not it can return with enough gain to give you unity. It also requires a robust input that can withstand the gain coming in. I remember Funkalicousgroove stated that a TC Electronics device he uses works well also, but that may have been with a dumbleator. All that said - to my ears the d'lator makes everything sound much nicer

Hope that helps,
Dave

[pedro]

thanks Dave,

I guess I'm particularly interested in delay devices in the loop - I'm using a Boss RV-5 reverb at the input at moment - but not particularly happy with it - especially on the OD channel.

I have all the stuff to make up a dumbleator circuit, though, and want to be certain about an accurate circuit before going ahead. My previous attempts with a dumbleator wired inside the amp were noisy and brittle.

Now I'm very happy with the basic amp build I dont want to mess things up.

guess I could breadboard the dumbleator up externally and try it in the passive loop.

Anyone have success with any specific delay devices using the passive loop ?

Rgds
Pete

[briane]

I've had really good results with the dumbleator circuit...so much so I am starting to add the passive loop to all my new amps, as its just a few jacks, and then it gives you some other ways to run the system...Its basically more options. It definetly increases the harmonic content of the amp in a very pleasing and complex way.

I've actually found the 'lator built into the amp to be quiter than external, but then theres the issue that some have reported liking long cheap cables to the 'lator as a way to increase capacitance, and drop some high end, to some result acting like a small snubber.

I'd say its a fairly easy build, relatively cheap, and the options it provides are really nice.

[stelligan]

Pete,

Since you are happy with the way your amp sounds now - that is most of the battle and that is awesome! 99% of the time the only effect I use is a tape delay patch and that MagicStomp does that fine. I own a Line6 delay modeler and that is boo bad in the loop. It drops level when engaged and is a real bummer. FWIW It has been my preference to have a dumbleator in the loop and send out to my effector, but not return to the amp. It adds a smoothness and character to the amp's OD sound that I prefer. I use the term loosely 'cause I think it is mostly a dumbleator. Details on the device built by heisthl for me are found here: https://tubeamparchive.com/viewtopic.php?t=1959
I return the effects to a powered guitar speaker (Tech21 power engine). This does not alter my amp's tone at all and adds a 3D separation to the sound stage that I get all blissed out in. One more thing to carry, though. Sometimes two! Place your bets as to which one usually makes it to the gig

[pedro]

Thanks Dave - thats helpful feedback.

I think I will make up an eyelet board for the circuit this weekend and try it as an external device over the next week or so.

I'll look into the magic stomp too - I like tape delay effects - anything that rounds the top end and mids as it decays especially.

Thanks for the help

cheers
Pete

PS - nice looking set up you have too - what guitars are you using with the amp ?

[stelligan]

Pete,

I usually play a '68 Gibson ES-345 with the stereo stuff taken out and a stop tailpiece, or an Ibanez AS with Gibson pickups. In those cases to the right. I really haven't given my Fender guitars a fair chance with these amps and need to start. I'm sure I can coax something good out of them. I just like that little added acoustic feedback along with the amp singing. I purchased one of those Squire Esprits not long ago and it may work out. Again a chambered body.

Once you get a d'lator in that loop - you won't turn back

Dave

[Pete]

I'm using a Boss RV-5 reverb at the input at moment - but not particularly happy with it - especially on the OD channel.
Anyone have success with any specific delay devices using the passive loop ?

Have you tried the RV-5 in the passive loop? Just wondering if it may work O.K.

[Normster]

To answer your original question...I use a stompbox delay in the passive loop and it works just fine, but I keep the cables relatively short. In fact, I think the amp sounds better with something in the loop, even when it's bypassed.

[fp2000]

I have also seen on some website (can't remember which) a pair of SS circuit modules that plugs right onto the passive efx loop. Somebody also mentioned it on this forum I believe. That would be an alternative to the d-lator if you don't mind commiting heressy using SS. If somebody has luck with it let me know.
Thanks

Frank

[stelligan]

This is likely the device referred to:

http://www.ironsounds.com/

[fp2000]

Stelligan, have you tried that? it seems nice, better than having the passive efx loop in the d'lite. And since this is moslty for solid state efx anyways, then it makes more sense to me. True by-pass.
If someone has any feedback on this please let us know
Thanks

[stelligan]

fp2000

Go to brownnote.net and search the D'Lite forum there. I believe there are quite a few that have installed that device with good result. I have no experience with it. I use the device referred to in the above pic and post. There is also a device called a "Kleinulator" that is referred to on that forum - an SS version of a dumbleator I think.

Dave

[pedro]

geat stuff - thanks - I think I'm gonna build both up and see what I like best.

I'm a tube guy - but I have plenty of J201's lying around so the SS might be easier to build up first and run from a gutted walwart for the PS , inside the amp.

On the guitar front - I'm thinking about selling some keyboard gear to buy a semi-hollow, and would appreciate some thoughts on which semis are worth a look in the medium price bracket. I love those old Ibanes AS's you have Dave !

I've spent so much on guitars over the last 10 years ( 94 PRS McCarty Goldtop, PRS Swamp Asp Special, EB Silhouette special, Gibson 1976 Firebird, and Godin LGXT ) that justifying a semi is difficult - but I'd love one to tinker jazz lines on.

I think I can get away with a mid-price semi - any recommends for a current model that is good value and would work well with the 50W ODS HRM ??

I'll let you know how i get on with the loop.

cheers
Pete

[JimiB]

Epiphone Dot's are suprisingly good - especially if you replace the pickups and electronics.