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Post by jeffmp on Jan 25, 2019 5:28:01 GMT -7
I have an ems w/matching 2x12 cab. I've just been able to start enjoying it! So far it's great! I have no issue about volume. It's RockNRoll! My question is what are the benefits of an airbrake? Other than the obvious volume attenuation, can a BACKWALL help bring out the best of the amp tonewise? DRIVING the tubes naturally? At A VERY LOUD but not an Open ended volume? Is it a myth or a fact? If it makes a difference i want it! If only for volume control i'd just like to know. I hope to get plenty replies! Thanks all!
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Post by daddyelmis (Greg) on Jan 25, 2019 7:07:51 GMT -7
Power tube and speaker distortion is THE sound of rock and roll in my opinion - certainly it’s the sound of the classic rock tones most guitarists seem to seek. That sound typically requires more volume than most players can use in the typical bar gig, and waaayy more than can be used at home. Hence the reason for the proliferation of lower wattage amps and attenuators - trying to get that power tube break up at lower volume.
So would a brake lite help coax the “best” from a 50 watt EMS? That’s a subjective question, but I would say yes if only to allow the amp to be pushed harder without a tremendous increase in volume.
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Post by John on Jan 25, 2019 9:52:27 GMT -7
Power tube distortion is different from preamp distortion/overdrive. It's also where a lot of the dynamics of an amp live. Taking an amp like the EMS...and being able to turn up the master all the way, but turn down the preamp volume will unleash awesome tone and dynamics.
There are other amp makers out there, where the preamp provides all the overdrive, and the power tubes do nothing more than make it louder. I don't care for these amps. If you hear a buzzy sounding amp...that's most likely preamp distortion. Power tube distortion is described more as 'crunchy'.
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Post by GuitarZ on Jan 25, 2019 17:31:20 GMT -7
I'd say it depends on where you run your volume and where you want to run it. I'm not a loud player and ran my Maz Jr with the master relatively low. When I was finally able to open that up, it was like a whole new amp. And, that whole new amp provided tone that I didn't know existed previously.
My master volume Marshall might be more like the EMS. I could always get the gain I wanted from the pre-amp. I've messed with the Airbrake on the Marshall. It also opens up differently once I change the equation and start pushing the power amp section. I wish I had an Airbrake back when my Marshall was my main amp.
So, for me, the Airbrake opens up a whole new world that I didn't even know existed.
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Post by jeffmp on Jan 26, 2019 5:20:08 GMT -7
Well,those are some good replies,answers, opinions.,and explanations on why? They are Exactly what i asked for! Thanks very much! I "lm convinced i will try one.Next question is because i have absolutely NO interest in bedroom settings should i go brake lite, or air brake? They are setup for different intervals? Also hoping for EMS(I know 50watts)specific experiences and/or opinions with air brake or either one? When this thread is done i will order one of them and probably a Z drive. I've been beating on a dead horse to some. Thanks for your patience!
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Post by premiumplus (Dave) on Jan 26, 2019 10:10:36 GMT -7
I'd go with the Air Brake. I gigged my Z-Wreck on the Bedroom setting at church. Sounded great! I got all the cranked power tube goodness at low volume. The other thing is that the Brake Lite is rated for amps up to 45 watts, and your EMS is conservatively rated at 50 watts. The Air Brake can handle the power. It's a great product.
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Post by jeffmp on Jan 30, 2019 18:41:28 GMT -7
Got one in the works! I agree with all! Thanks! For you guys that use one ,how much do you normally attenuate vs cranking the volume and gain? Not in bedroom settings but what's your settings for jam sessions ?
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Post by jeffmp on Feb 20, 2019 18:41:50 GMT -7
My airbrake should arrive tommorrow. Can't wait to push!
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Post by jeffmp on Feb 23, 2019 7:03:59 GMT -7
Power tube and speaker distortion is THE sound of rock and roll in my opinion - certainly it’s the sound of the classic rock tones most guitarists seem to seek. That sound typically requires more volume than most players can use in the typical bar gig, and waaayy more than can be used at home. Hence the reason for the proliferation of lower wattage amps and attenuators - trying to get that power tube break up at lower volume. So would a brake lite help coax the “best” from a 50 watt EMS? That’s a subjective question, but I would say yes if only to allow the amp to be pushed harder without a tremendous increase in volume. I have it and i Agree 100 Percent! This is Great! Next up a Z-Drive!
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Post by GuitarZ on Feb 23, 2019 12:13:05 GMT -7
Enjoy. As I said before, when I finally got an AirBrake and hooked it up to my Maz Jr, it was like I had a whole new amp. And, the new amp blew away the old! Have Fun!
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