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Post by genobluzgtr on Jul 4, 2007 5:43:49 GMT -7
I am looking at changing amps, and hoping for some advice. I am posting this in several of the amp model threads to get a good sampling.
Is the Mazerati the one I am looking for?
I have a Bassman that I use for larger gigs, and it works well. For smaller places, I used to use a Z28 combo, but sold it becuase of issues with tube rattles that I couldn't seem to whip (one option is to get another Z28 in head format, I guess).
I am currently using a Clark Kanee Reverb (Princeton Clone) that is fantasic amp, but the new band I am joining has simpler set up and doesn't mic amps, so I am looking for something with a touch more projection and headroom.
Having owned "Z"s in the past I know I love the quality and mojo, so I think that's the way I will go.
For pedals I use a combination of Barber ODs, and a RC Booster (different levels of OD and stacked at times for more) and a vintage Echo Jr delay, nothing else.
The music will be classic rock, blues, country and oldies.
I guess what I'm looking for are folks that use the Mazerati for similar situations and any pros or cons.
Thanks!
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Post by Restforyoursouls on Jul 4, 2007 9:25:14 GMT -7
Did you try tube dampers when you had th z28? I have some tube rattle with my Carmen Ghia combo too but I haven't tried the tube dampers yet....I hear they take care of that problem.
Anyways, If you are looking for a little more clean headroom, the Maz 18 might be the way to go. Since you have the Bassman, I'm guessing you like the sound from 10's. I think the Maz 18 2x10 or 1x12 combo would work well for you. If you go with another combo like the z28 you had, I'd definitely throw on some tube dampers on at least the power tubes and rectifier tube.
I've never played a Mazerati so I can't say much on that. I'm sure some other guys will chime in here. Hope this helps some.
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Post by genobluzgtr on Jul 4, 2007 10:33:12 GMT -7
I did use tube dampers (and still on most of my amps), it cured the problem for any of the 12A*s and rectifiers and power tubes, but the EF86 was just too damn sensitive to be in a combo format. I went through 4 or 5 EF86s, and they sounded great, no rattle for the first couple sets, but by the end of the first gig with each tube, they were pinging and rattling like crazy. Tube dampers might get me through another gig, but in the end, I couldn't keep buying EF86s at the rate they were deteriorating. At one point, I was using two dampers and the shrink wrap end cap with the wire retainer and it still was louder than my cleans!!I think a Z28 head would be okay, but in a combo that tube is just too sensitive.
I am, however, sold on tube dampers for other tube types. Keeps 'em quiet for the long haul. I think EF86s should only be in head format though. If I was able to play the amp loud every time I plugged in, it wouldn't have been so noticeable.
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Post by billyguitar on Jul 4, 2007 10:45:17 GMT -7
You don't say which Bassman you have, tweed , blonde, black or silver? A Mazerati can sound like a Tweed Bassman set a certain way. The Mazerati I had was from early '05 I believe and it apparently distorted more than the newer ones which are said to be very clean but tonally I can comment. It was a perfect bridge pickup Tele amp. I didn't care for it as much for other guitars and other pickup placements. I also found it hard to get away from the glassy treble. Guys say the new one is very loud before breakup so lower efficiency speakers would be helpful. Very hard to beat a Maz 38 senior for just about any style.
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Post by genobluzgtr on Jul 5, 2007 2:17:47 GMT -7
The Bassman is a 4X10 Tweed. It's an early RI (1990) that has been converted to PTP with a Hoffman Kit (new components, new wiring, new Jacks, new Pots). I am running the 'vintage' tube setup with a 12AY7 in V1, 5U4 Rectifier and 5881 Power Tubes. It's putting out between 35 and 40 watts.
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jbro
Full Member
Posts: 123
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Post by jbro on Jul 5, 2007 12:14:29 GMT -7
The Mazerati has been one of the most satisfying amps I've ever owned.. including a horde of expensive boutique stuff, and even 3 other Z's ('66 and 2 Maz 18's). It takes on almost completely different characteristics depending on the guitar, cable, tubes, cab, and speakers you use. If I plug it into my Germino oversized 2x12 (right now it has a G12M and G12H wired in series), it sounds like a Marshall, but with more clarity when it breaks up. Plugged into a 1x12 open back cab with a Tone Tubby ceramic, at low volumes it has almost a clean Fender vibe to it, and then it starts to get Voxxy when pushed. With my old open back 2x12 w/ Blue's.. it's a Vox, but with a more balanced sound and better clarity during overdrive.
Now, I will admit this is not the best "bedroom" amp I've ever owned, to my ears it doesn't start filling out and breathing until the volume is about half way up (that's full band/club gig volume at that point).. but this is my workhorse amp.. it's small, built like a tank, and sounds great. I keep trying to find something that will displace it, but that hasn't happened yet. I have a Bruno Underground 30 on the way in - I'm looking forward to comparing the two after all the raves I've read about the Bruno. If I have some time, I'll make a few A/B clips.
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Post by bluzsteel on Jul 8, 2007 6:49:39 GMT -7
The Mazerati is my fav amp in the herd. it can be a great small club amp but you would need to put a Blue Dog Alinco or the likes of one in there to tame it. I have a Tonker in mine and I rule the stage with it. very loud. perfect for my outdoor gigs
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