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Post by bbutler356 on Mar 30, 2018 7:51:26 GMT -7
Okay, I know enough to ask the first question, but now,.... What exactly ARE active tone controls, and what ARE passive tone controls? Thanks guys.
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Post by scottunzicker on Mar 30, 2018 8:13:04 GMT -7
I believe the Z-Lux has passive tone controls, which, from what I understand, can be thought of as "allowing" more or less of a given range of frequencies down the line to the power section to amplify. I think this might be a great topic for Dr. Z's Friday "ask me anything" video.
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Post by premiumplus (Dave) on Mar 30, 2018 17:40:41 GMT -7
Active tone controls are designed to add signal strength to the frequency you're controlling (Treble, Middle, Bass) as well as cut the strenth of those frequencies. Typically 12:00 noon is "Flat Response" and turning it down cuts the level while turning it up actually boosts the frequencies. Passive tone controls can only reduce signal levels, there is always signal loss when they are used. That would be a great topic to hear Doc's inimitable way of explaining complex circuits in a simple way.
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Post by bbutler356 on Apr 2, 2018 6:21:27 GMT -7
Thanks, you guys. I've known that in one of the two, turning one tone knob affects the other knobs. (which to me always seemed to make finding my favorite tone, kind of tricky) I would assume this is the Passive, where the knobs affect each other? -And if anyone understands HOW the tone knobs affect each other, please tell me. I mean turning down the mids might increase bass and lessen treble or vice-versa, or whatever.... Thanks
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Post by premiumplus (Dave) on Apr 2, 2018 8:40:38 GMT -7
If you want to get down into the weeds, here is a link to a "Tone Stack Calculator". It's a small program that allows you to graphically see the type of effect the different tone controls make on the signal. Different amplifiers use different tone controls, and Dr. Z uses some that he designed himself...so it truly depends on the type of amplifier we're talking about. There are several different options for you to check out, and it's a nicely done, instructive way to spend an hour or two. At the bottom of the page I've linked here you'll find a hyperlink to download the software. It's a tiny file, and it's free, but you do have to install it on your computer. So I wouldn't try it at work if I were you, IT might not appreciate it! Hope this helps. Duncan Tone Stack Calculator
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Post by zpilot on Apr 16, 2018 14:27:56 GMT -7
Almost all tube guitar amp tone controls are passive. The main difference is where where they are placed in relation to the pre-amp gain stages. Mainly after the 1st vs the 2nd stage. Gain stages are active whereas the the tone controls just roll off certain frequencies.
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Post by bbutler356 on Apr 20, 2018 9:49:38 GMT -7
Thanks
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