Hey Mike. I noticed Stewart has these little power amps that are normal Class AB type amps, but they use a transformerless switching power supply. That is where they save weight. Maybe you guys could up the power of the 112 but not put on any weight by using this lightweight power supply. I imagine something that looks like a Session 400 but scaled down to match a 12" speaker. You could call it the "Session 112".

Brad

[This message was edited by Brad Sarno on 31 March 2006 at 03:07 PM.]

You have been fantastic not just on this post, but in all the interactions I have had with Peavey over the years.

New suggestions:

1. Include an analog compressor after the first stage pre-amp, and before any effects, where the noise problems can be somewhat mitigated.
   
   
2. Consider having a remote device for the guitar that lowers the output impedance and carries the signal over balanced line using TRS or A3F connectors. You can supply phantom power over this set and the cost is only a couple of bucks. This would be a good place for a tuner...
   
   
3. Include a DC-controlled volume control using either MIDI or an analog system. I have designed one that works very well [here].. The system on the NV112 (among others) is kludgy and carries the signal across two additional cables, with the expected high frequency rolloff, added noise and reduced reliability.
   
   
4. Place this volume control after all pre-amp effects but before the reverb for the most natural sound.
   
   
5. I am experimenting with lightweight laminates of 3/16" ply, a felt layer, then another 3/16" ply. This is a very good sound transmission attenuator with a would sound and less than 1/2" total thickness. Reinforce with aluminum (or G10 fiberglass) L stock for a very strong and lightweight amp.
   
   
6. IMHO modeling obivates the need for tubes and all of their inherent hassle. I defy anyone to tell the difference between excellent modeling and tube amps in a real music application (e.g., with others playing).
   
   
7. I like the idea of a separate powered speaker - as you made for the Session 2000 - It obviously only adds cost for the people who choose that option.
   
   
8. USB flash memory for the settings is a terrific idea
   
   
9. I have really enjoyed the switchable presets for the Session 2000. As there are few effects on this amp, it is less relevant, but my reading of this thread is that you have a group of people who really want a basic set of digital effects.
   
   
10. Contrary to the notes I have seen, modeling is not inherently expensive, especially if you were to be adding a digital effects section.
    
    
11. Has anyone tried the Jensen Neo series speakers? These neodynium drives weigh only four pounds and are inexpensive but I, for one, haven't had a chance to see if they sound good. I love my Black Widows.
    

Thanks again, Mike.

[This message was edited by Mark Cohen on 04 April 2006 at 10:53 AM.]

quote:

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Has anyone tried the Jensen Neo series speakers?

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From the specs, they might handle enough power for our use, but both of the 15" speakers are classified as "bass speakers". Though the curves don't look all that bad, I'd have to try them to see if they have what most of us are looking for in a steel speaker.

I am developing an amp for multiple uses - steel being crucial. The projected configuration will include two 12" neodymium speakers (Eminence) and two horn tweeters (Eminence), in full stereo with 500W/channel. The enclosure is a tuned and ported design to give extended bass down to about 45 Hz. The amplifier uses a novel switching design that is incredibly lightweight. A 19" 2 space rack is included to place the preamp of your choice. My own preamp is to be a Digitech 2120, but the Rocktron Chameleon 2000 is an excellent and available alternative. Using special wood composites and aluminum reinforcements, the amp will be less than 30 pounds (not including the preamp - a Rocktron, for example, adds another 5 lbs). The output can be directed either to the internal speakers in stereo, to the internal speakers in left channel only, with the right channel sent to an external cabinet, or to two external cabinets to run in parallel with each of the internal speakers. This flexibility is essential for an amp with such high power output.

This will be a specialty hand-crafted item in limited quantity (no worries Mike...) under the name of Clear View Designs that will be available only if I see enough interest. Target pricing is in the $1100 range.

Brad

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http://home.comcast.net/~steves_garage

Oh and Mike, thanks for the opportunity to provide some input - - Chuck

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Chuck
Country Fever Band

[This message was edited by Chuck Hall on 19 April 2006 at 01:24 PM.]

This is a concept amp design. The system will have a nearly flat response from 45 Hz up. An active circuit prior to the power amp stage will provide response tuning (speaker simulation) if needed (that is, if it is not included in the racked preamp). The amp is intended not just for steel, but for keyboards.

The neodymium drivers that are presently avalable on their own have little output above about 3500 Hz, which would yield a somewhat dull steel sound and a very nasal violin response. Even if you prefer a less zingy steel tone, certain kinds of reverb are much more natural sounding if they contains the high end.

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http://home.comcast.net/~steves_garage