1 Topic by NPB_EST.1979 (edited by NPB_EST.1979 2010-02-05 21:55:32)

  • From: Detroit
  • Registered: 2006-06-02
  • Posts: 5,807

Topic: THD Hotplate

OK,

I know we've probably talked about this before, so I'll use an example.

We played a gig yesterday in a food court at a local university. A big room. Bigger than a couple bars. The Fender Hod Rod Deluxe was on "2" for volume it was LOUD. It seems like the only time we can EVER turn up this amp is for recording purposes when we are in a basement and nobody else is around.

Is a THD Hotplate the solution for this problem? It seems sort of a waste to NEVER be able to crank up a tube amp. Much less one that is 40 watts and 1x12"... I'm scratching my head.

We have a couple 15 watt combos too (blues junior and a pro junior) and those just don't get loud enough... so it's one extreme or the other.

- Nic from Detroit... posting on JB's Forum since 6-2-2006
Ask me about my handwound Great Lakes Guitar Pickups
Since 2010, Bonamassa fans have taken advantage of my JB friend discount = my cost + shipping. cool
  • From: Florida, USA
  • Registered: 2008-06-04
  • Posts: 1,420

Re: THD Hotplate

I've always had a problem with the Fender Hot Rod amps in particular with the volume taper.  It goes from whisper quiet to balls out loud immediately.  I like amps that have a smoother, more linear increase in volume.  I hate the idea of using attenuators, especially with combos, but that would likely solve your issues.  I wouldn't bother with the THD though.  For the same or less coinage you can get a better product for your needs.  I would check out the Dr.Z Airbrake.  They have one that you can mount inside the combo itself so it's out of sight!  I may get one for my Maz Jr...

On a side note, it really sucks that you can't play above "2" on a damn Fender amp.  Rock music is suppose to be loud!  I wish people would wake the hell up and live a little.  I should've been alive during the '60s and '70s...  BTW are you using a baffle too?  There are ways to get the volume down so everyone is happy... hmm

'67 and '74 Fender Twin Reverbs, '74 Marshall 1987 lead mkII, Metro Superlead 100. Pedals from TC Electronic, Ibanez, Dunlop, BK Butler, Electro-Harmonix, Fulltone, Maestro/Gibson, Loopmaster switching, VoodooLab, Boss. Gibson and Fender guitars, Dimarzio pickups.
  • ken
  • ken
  • Titanium
  • Offline
  • From: Orlando, FL
  • Registered: 2007-05-28
  • Posts: 949

Re: THD Hotplate

stratpaulguy86 wrote:

I would check out the Dr.Z Airbrake.  They have one that you can mount inside the combo itself so it's out of sight!  I may get one for my Maz Jr...

It's called the dr.z brake lite. It's good for up to a 45 watt amp, mounts inside the combo. I have one for my Budda SD45, and it works great. Get the amp where it sounds good (but too loud for the venue), and just turn it down a click or two. Very transparent for the first 2 or 3 clicks. It's cool because it's out of sight, and it always in there if you need it, but don't have to carry around any additional stuff. Reasonably priced at $169.

  • Registered: 2009-03-07
  • Posts: 74

Re: THD Hotplate

I use a volume box with my Hot Rod Deluxe. You just plug it into the effects loop, turn the clean channel up to 7-8 and use the box to control the volume. Works like a charm and only costs $20. I suggest giving it a try before spending a couple of hundred on an attenuator.