Mesa F-series Lounge. Come on in and share your secrets.

[Rodimus Prime]

ok, so i did a quick search and Hal seems to believe that the speakers are not well voiced for the amp. shrill, too much bass and less mids are not what i'm looking for. v30's then.

[Rodimus Prime]

yearrr, one more question. celestion 70/80's. any opinions or experiences?

[hal9000]

ok, so i did a quick search and Hal seems to believe that the speakers are not well voiced for the amp. shrill, too much bass and less mids are not what i'm looking for. v30's then.WOW 4000+ Posts!

Yeah, I'm not a fan of the G12T-75s with my F-100, but then again, I'm not a fan of the G12T-75s in general. Lots of people like them mixed with V30s like the Bogner Ubercab, but there is a 3 dB gap in sensitivity that will make the V30s much louder by comparison (Maybe that's why they like the mix :)).

Anyway, I personally like the Classic Lead 80, and the Mesa Custom 90 which are similar mixed with a V30 for the best overall frequency response, tight bass, plenty of mids and smooth highs. My next cab will probably be a CL80/V30 mix of some sort. If you go with Avatar, the Hellatone 60/30 mix is supposed to rock as well.

Anyway, speakers are like anything else in the amplifier world in that they will sound different to you, than to me. So, if you have a chance to audition a Marshall 1960 cab with the stock G12T-75s, you may very well like it.

[twolfe278]

Just got my F-50 combo this past weekend. My girls about to get rid of me cuz all i wanna do is play it. DOn't care. It is definitely better to my ears than her anyway.

I ran my late 70's early 80's Fender 15" sidekick bass cab through the F-50. WOW!! The sound is unique, lots more tone than the C90. What's the deal with bass cabs? Anybody else use em? They seem to get great sound from a guitar, maybe the highs are a bit more subtle, but dang the mid/bass response!

Thanks to all the posters who influenced my decision on the 50. Mesa rocks!

[RyGy]

I had the 70/80 in a Traynor amp. I replaced it with a Vin30, and the Vin 30 sounds so much better. I am currently running a Jensen Neo 12-100 in my F50 combo. It sounds good, and drops the weight of the combo. I am looking into an Avatar 412 Special with 2 Vin30, and 2 G12H30. This combination is suposed to rock. I just have to wait for the green light from the wife before I get the 412.

[Lt_Core]

I had the 70/80 in a Traynor amp. I replaced it with a Vin30, and the Vin 30 sounds so much better. I am currently running a Jensen Neo 12-100 in my F50 combo. It sounds good, and drops the weight of the combo. I am looking into an Avatar 412 Special with 2 Vin30, and 2 G12H30. This combination is suposed to rock. I just have to wait for the green light from the wife before I get the 412.

I also have a Jensen NEO. Yeah, it sounds better than the stock C90 and the weight drop is awesome for gigging. How much did you have to adjust your settings when you put replaced the C90 with the Jensen NEO? I'm curious on how you compensated for the speaker difference.

I'm also looking into an Avatar but a 212 with V30's....small world :thu:

[RyGy]

I actually put an MXR 10 band eq in the loop. I haven't found the perfect settings for it yet, but I did increase the mids a bit on the amp, but before the Neo 100 I had a V30 in there. I went with th e neo 100 for the drop in weight, but I like the extra high end from it. I just have to finish tweakin g the EQ, But I am still drooling over turning my combo into a head, and running an avatar 412. There is just something about a 412 cab that is just cool, especially with a Mesa head.

[mattleesc]

can anyone recommand a replacement speaker for my open backed f-30 combo?

am running it thru a custom closed back 2x12 cab with dual emi. governors. most of time i just run the cab :o

would like to tame some of the high end harshness and smooth out the sound.

[jcoggins7]

Maybe a Black Shadow/Celestion Custom 90 or Celestion Classic Lead 80, or you could look into a Hellatone 60L.

[bnelly428]

Uh oh, I set up my effects loop on my f-100 head, and i'm getting a lot of noise through channel 2... when i turn the mix pot down it goes away, so it's related to the loop. Also with channel 2, when the gain is below and up to 9:00 there is a ton of excess noise coming through, it subsides when the gain is between 10 and 2 and then reappears at around 3, is this the warning that new tubes are needed?

more importantly fix the noise in my loop!!!

attributes of my loop,

18ft hosa cable from return to DD-6, CE-5, BF-2, 18ft hosa cable to send (or whichever way the loop goes)

25 ft speaker cable in to MT2, TU2, morely wah, sometimes mxr comp, spectra? 12ft cable to guitar.

[Adam Poland]

yearrr, one more question. celestion 70/80's. any opinions or experiences?

Seventy 80's are like a toned down version of the Vintage 30's just like the Celestion site says. The lows are a bit more muddy and the highs are a little bit more fizzy, but other than that it sounds like a V30.

Get the H60's from Avatar or V30's whatever you get. Makes me glad I kept my F-50 now.


ALSO, does anyone know if the Tung-Sol 12AX7's take out some of the fizzy Mesa distortion/od? I've heard it from a few people that it does, but I'm curious. My tubes are going bad and need some soon.

[Lt_Core]

Finally had a chance to play my F-50 112 through a Mesa 212 cab with V30's. Holy crap! What a difference. I have never played through an external cab before using my F-50. It sounded awesome. It's a used mint cab at a local guitar store. They're asking $400 on consignment but I told them I was looking at an Avatar 212 cab for $300. The store was going to contact the seller and see what he'll do.

Now if I can only sell my remaining Atomic 112 amp to help pay for this sucker ;)

[jcoggins7]

Uh oh, I set up my effects loop on my f-100 head, and i'm getting a lot of noise through channel 2... when i turn the mix pot down it goes away, so it's related to the loop. Also with channel 2, when the gain is below and up to 9:00 there is a ton of excess noise coming through, it subsides when the gain is between 10 and 2 and then reappears at around 3, is this the warning that new tubes are needed?

more importantly fix the noise in my loop!!!

attributes of my loop,

18ft hosa cable from return to DD-6, CE-5, BF-2, 18ft hosa cable to send (or whichever way the loop goes)

25 ft speaker cable in to MT2, TU2, morely wah, sometimes mxr comp, spectra? 12ft cable to guitar.

While on any high gain amp you're bound to have a little noise, the F-Series is relatively quiet on high gain settings compared to others. However, I see several problems other than the amp with your setup that could be causing noise, and I also think that there are a couple other possibilities to why you could have this problem:

1) You have a speaker cable in your chain. Speaker cables should be used strictly from amp to speaker.
2) You're using Hosa and Spectra cables. While these may work fine with other amps, the F-Series, in my experience, is extremely sensitive to different cables and their quality and shielding. These cables could be the culprit of the noise. I have a one foot cord at home by some other budget brand and it hums like nobody's business, so I took it out of my chain and now run strictly Mogami and Monster cables (Monsters are only between effects).
3) You're running Boss effects. In my experience, Boss effects have horrible noise issues, whether on or off. I've never found a quiet Boss pedal. It could also be your other pedals, but I don't have experience with them.
4) You haven't stated where you're getting your power from. You should always have your amp and your effects running from the same power source (i.e., power strip). Also, if your running your pedals with an external power supply, the power supply could be the culprit. This is especially true if you're running a daisy chain.
5) It always could be a preamp tube. In this situation it would most likely be the one for the effects loop. I don't remember which one that is at the moment.

Those are some things to investigate. Hope I could help.

[bnelly428]

welp, i think i'll have to weather the storm as they say..... im not about to replace everything one by one to find out. but thanks for the info, i'll keep that all in mind as i go on. I will switch out the speaker cable though. I do have a jerry rigged pedal board/daisy chain right now, and the electronics on the built in power supply of the board seem pretty loud. further investigation will commence on sunday when i have practice



Thanks again!

[MKCL]

How did the 2 12 sound?? I like the idea of the small size of a 2 12??

hey, which prs do you have?

[mesaboogieman75]

i've got a f-30 on the way and can't wait

[RyGy]

hey, which prs do you have?

It is a Custom 22 With the Artist package. I am in the process of finding the pickups that work the best with it. Currently I have a Duncan custom bridge, and an alnico II pro in the neck.

[RyGy]

Uh oh, I set up my effects loop on my f-100 head, and i'm getting a lot of noise through channel 2... when i turn the mix pot down it goes away, so it's related to the loop. Also with channel 2, when the gain is below and up to 9:00 there is a ton of excess noise coming through, it subsides when the gain is between 10 and 2 and then reappears at around 3, is this the warning that new tubes are needed?

more importantly fix the noise in my loop!!!

attributes of my loop,

18ft hosa cable from return to DD-6, CE-5, BF-2, 18ft hosa cable to send (or whichever way the loop goes)

25 ft speaker cable in to MT2, TU2, morely wah, sometimes mxr comp, spectra? 12ft cable to guitar.


Definitly get rid of the Speaker cable. I would not be too woried about the cheaper cables in the fx loop. It is a low impedance signal, so it is not as prone to noise as from your guitar to amp :eek:

I would also try to remove each effect one at a time since it could be a noise problem with one effect in particular.

Good luck noise hunting

[breakingstring]

I have another question.

The F50 is my first tube amp, and I'm just wondering... how hot it is normal for the back grille to get? It feels pretty damn hot to me when I've been playing for a while! I can also feel it slightly through the amp's front panel. I'm just checking whether this is normal or not.

[Goldwing]

Hi guys. Need a little help here. I've been using my EHX deluxe electric mistress for a while and always seems to notice a drop in the general volume when is on. If I use it in the Fx Loop then is more notorious. I'm not using the direct output of the mistress, only the flange output. maybe is because of this?

I wonder if any of you knows how to use both outputs. My GT8's flanger has effect level and direct level so you cand blend the desired amount of effect in the direct signal, I guess that is the reason for the direct output in the Electric Mistress but how to use it in my F50's loop?

What I want is to mix only a part of the flanger into the signal. I tought that with the FX MIX pot I could handle it but that volume drop is ruining everything jejeje.

My rig actually goes like this:

Fender JV sig-> Digitech Main Squeeze -> GT8 ->(Boss SD-1 -> Big Muff) loop of the GT8 -> GT8 -> F50 -> EHX Electric Mistress in the F50's loop.

thnks!!

cheers!

[bowen71]

I have another question.

The F50 is my first tube amp, and I'm just wondering... how hot it is normal for the back grille to get? It feels pretty damn hot to me when I've been playing for a while! I can also feel it slightly through the amp's front panel. I'm just checking whether this is normal or not.

It will get pretty hot. Our drummer's basement stays pretty cold in the winter and I sometimes hold my hands behind my head to warm them up. I have also noticed after a gig when we are packing things up, the top of my 4x12 cabinet is quite warm from having the head on top of it.

[Rodimus Prime]

i think i sealed the deal on a beat up marshall jcm800 lead series 1960b cab. man, i can't wait to use that in tandem with my f50. I was playing my friends' randall 4x12 with 70/80's just to get a taste for it. made the tone much bigger and nicer to my ears than a 2x12. maybe its just me, but i can't wait to be back in 4x12 glory (drools)

[hal9000]

I've been wanting to get some mics for home recording for a while and finally bought some on Saturday. After a lot of research, I went with an SM-57 and e609 which I've heard great recordings of both in singular and mixed applications. Curiously, the outer housing around the grill on my SM-57 rotates? Maybe I've never noticed that before with my singer's SM-57s?

I got a chance to test drive the SM-57 into my Line6 Toneport UX-2 and I was getting some great tone right out of the box. For the placement I like most, I had the SM-57 on axis (perpendicular to the grill) with the outside edge of mic equidistant from the two left grill screws and on the same vertical line right up to the grill cloth. I recorded takes from a bunch of positions both on-axis and off-axis, but the placing above sounded best for heavy rhythm tones. I then discovered that Cool Edit Pro 2.0 doesn't support ASIO drivers, which means that only one mic is supported at a time. So, I installed the free Abelton Live Lite that comes with the UX-2 which does support ASIO. I'm still learning the program, but so far it seems very capable, and it will allow me to record the two speakers of my F-100 at the same time. :)

The tone I recorded in the placement I described was vibrant with such a balanced sound that I didn't feel any EQ or compression was required. On the UX-2 I was using the Vintage UK mic-pre which is an emulation of the famed Neve 1073. I didn't play with the mic-pre at all, so it will be interesting to see how different the mic-pre models sound and how their controls work. To compare recorded tones, I always like to go to http://www.bogneramplification.com/MP3.htm because the quality of clips there is outstanding. Usually, I'm pretty happy with what I recorded until I hear these clips, but this time my simple home recording held up very well, so I'm enthused to forge on.

So, the UX-2 continues to impress me. It's quite the all-in-one recording solution. With a little more time under my belt on Abelton live and some placement testing on the e609, I should be able to make some clips of the material I have in my sig that was recorded direct.

I know, I know, this post is useless without clips. :)

[Joeytpg]

hey Hal, would you mind reviewing your tone port?

i've been thinking about buying this...what do you use it for specifically?

[hal9000]

hey Hal, would you mind reviewing your tone port?

i've been thinking about buying this...what do you use it for specifically?No problem. The Line6 Toneport UX-2 is possibly the best bang-for-the-buck recording interface available. I'm more interested in the UX-2's recording capability, rather than the modeling since I really favor the Vox Tonelab in that vein. For recording, the UX-2 has a lot of features like the dual mic inputs, line level inputs, SPDIF out, USB interface, etc. I've used it for silent direct recording through the line level inputs where I'm using both the cab sims and guitar FX. Just this weekend I actually used it as a dual mic pre and it sounded really good to me (see above post). As far as modeling, it sounds just like a PODxt, so if you like that, then there you go. The UX-2 does come with one model that the XTL doesn't which is the Orange AD30. I like that model with an SD-1 out front quite a bit. Gearbox is easy to use (UX-2 computer interface) and setting up tracks is also easy as long as your software supports ASIO. The first mic input will work with any recording program, but if you want to use the second, it's only ASIO.

[andershoeg]

Hal, about the sm57 rotating top; it's normal....mine does that as well :)
b.r. andershoeg

[hal9000]

Hal, about the sm57 rotating top; it's normal....mine does that as well :)
b.r. andershoegThanks! I thought so, but I couldn't remember my singer's doing that.

[Lt_Core]

Finally had a chance to play my F-50 112 through a Mesa 212 cab with V30's. Holy crap! What a difference. I have never played through an external cab before using my F-50. It sounded awesome. It's a used mint cab at a local guitar store. They're asking $400 on consignment but I told them I was looking at an Avatar 212 cab for $300. The store was going to contact the seller and see what he'll do.

Now if I can only sell my remaining Atomic 112 amp to help pay for this sucker ;)

Update: they'll sell it to me for $350. Mesa Recto 2x12 cab with V30's. I'm guessing that's a good deal. Bigger than an Avatar 212 cab but my F-50 looked nice on top of it!

Will someone buy my Atomic amp? LOL! Wrong thread for that sale....LOL!

[hal9000]

Update: they'll sell it to me for $350. Mesa Recto 2x12 cab with V30's. I'm guessing that's a good deal. Bigger than an Avatar 212 cab but my F-50 looked nice on top of it!

Will someone buy my Atomic amp? LOL! Wrong thread for that sale....LOL!I'd say that's a good price since my GC has one in decent shape for $559. Boo hiss to them I say.

With a Recto 2x12 you should get a lot more low end thump. :)

[Lt_Core]

I'm guessing it's a Recto cab.....big bastard....plugged it into my F-50's 8 ohm jack...then tried both the combo and cab in the 4 ohm jacks. Tons o' sound! Don't know how old it is though.

From Mesa product guide:

2x12 RECTO Horizontal
120 Watt • V30 Spkrs • Closed Back • 8 Ohm

Edit: can casters be added to it? Also, has anyone tried a Marshall 1960 cab with their F-50?

[jcoggins7]

Casters can be added to the Recto cabs. You can buy them on Mesa's website.

[RyGy]

I am thinking about replacing my F50 with a Dual Rectifier head, and avatar 412 special. I am looking for some opinions about the Dual Rec vs the F50. The F50 is a sweet amp, but there is just something about a Dual Rectifier on top of a 412 that is just undeniably cool!!!

[jcoggins7]

First off, if you're set on getting a Dual Rec, please make sure it's a two-channel version. They sound better than the newer ones. As for choosing between an F-50 and Dual Rec Solo, I personally chose the F-50 because it's way more versatile. The Dual Rec is a one-trick pony. I will admit that I still want one really bad, but for the money, the F-50 is just so much better for somebody that wants to play more than one sound. The clean on the F-Series will destroy a Rectifier's clean, and I really think that the F-Series gets a much smoother, better lead tone. Also, in my opinion, Rectifier Solos are much harder to EQ than the F-Series. This is from personal experience. I've demoed several different Rectifiers, including newer Dual Rec Solos, Single Rec Solos, and the Roadster. I've always come away reassured that I made the best decision I could have with the money I spent. But it may be that the Rectifier is what fits your style better. Check them out together. A/B them and stuff with different guitars.

[hal9000]

I am thinking about replacing my F50 with a Dual Rectifier head, and avatar 412 special. I am looking for some opinions about the Dual Rec vs the F50. The F50 is a sweet amp, but there is just something about a Dual Rectifier on top of a 412 that is just undeniably cool!!!Here are my thoughts on the topic. I would urge you to look into the original run of Tremoverbs (mine is a '93 from the first year) as opposed to the current models or even older 2-channel Duals.

You know I love my F-100 and it would take quite a beast of an amp to get me to relinquish it for gigging. The Tremoverb is the only amp that could replace the F-100 as my #1.

Clean
IMO the F-100's cleans are better in the Blackface style, but the T-verb is no slouch, especially with orange cloned to red for a glassy clean. Both amps are capable of pristine clean up through jazz and into classic rock overdrive on the "clean" channel. The F-100 has more clean headroom.

Overdrive Voicing
The F-series is a good mix of old-school Mark lead sounds and Recto aggression on Contour, but the voicing is different enough to the T-verb to warrant keeping them both. I prefer the lead sounds of the F-100 on channel 2 to the leads on the T-verb (Vintage high gain/Tube Recto), but if bass is your game, the T-verb has a lot more on tap than the F-100 mostly due to the controls being after distortion. One voicing difference between the F-100 and T-verb is in the upper-mids. The T-verb has a crunch to its sound even with a ton of gain that I like a lot. The F-100 doesn't have the same crunchy tone, so that's why they are different. As far as lower gain, both amps are very capable with a slight edge to the F-100 since it isn't voiced as aggressively on channel 2, but the Vintage high gain and Blues modes are sweet for overdrive up to meltdown. Unlike the 3-channel Rectos, I prefer Red-Modern for all of my heavy riffage because it's decently tight, has a good bite to the tone, has plenty of bass, but doesn't get buzzy or fizzy even with the presence up high.

Overdrive Tightness
The F-100 is tighter, but I certainly don't have a problem playing MOP through Black album era Metallica with the T-verb.

Versatility
This is a tough one because both amps are so versatile. The T-verb was the flagship back when mine was made in 1993, so it has some features that the F-series doesn't like tube rectifier, tube-driven reverb, tremolo, FX send strength pot, 16 Ohm tap, bold/spongy variac, etc.

The T-verb has two voicings per channel (Orange = Clean or Vintage High Gain, Red = Blues or Modern High Gain), but you only get two at a time. By comparison, the F-100 has one clean voicing, and two overdrive voicings, but Channel 2 and Contour are footswitchable meaning that you can use it like a 3-channel amp or 2-channels with a solo boost. A cool feature of the T-verb is that you can clone the channels so you could have two oranges or two reds which will give you two modern high gain channels, or two vintage high gains, or two clean voicings, or clean and Vintage high gain, etc. You can't really flip the voicing switch and keep the EQ the same though like on the F-series. The modes are too different in level and voicing.

If you were recording, both amps offer a ton of tones from pristine clean to meltdown. They both have about the same amount of gain, and I generally set mine to 1:00 on Channel 2 of the F-100 and Red-modern on the T-verb.

Control Responsiveness
The F-series is often slagged because the channel 2 controls don't seem to do a lot to the sound. The reason is because they are more like the Mark series TMB circuit in that they are before major clipping. So, the F-series EQ affects the quality and tightness of the distortion, rather than having a large effect on the relative frequencies of each control. What this means though, is that you can tighten the bass by turning it down to 9:00 or so without the need of a pedal. Conversely, the T-verb has its EQ controls after major clipping, so they do a lot more to overall signal, but don't affect the quality or tightness of the distortion as much. To tighten a T-verb, you really need to use a pedal. My Bad Monkey works nice as a boost for the T-verb BTW. On the clean channel, both amps have a lot of control over the sound with the EQ.

FX loop and Remote Switching
Both the F-100 and T-verb have a parallel loop with mix control, and the T-verb also has an FX send strength knob. With my G-Major, I can get both amps to sound great with the mix up full. I don't really feel the need for the FX send strength knob with quality FX.

As for remote switching, the F-series has a 5-pin DIN (also called MIDI) connector for the footswitch. So, when I integrated the G-Major into my rig, I made my own cable for channel switching (G-Major > 1/4" TRS - 5-Pin DIN > F-100 footswitch input) The F-series footswitch setup is nice because you can switch between the three modes with only two relays, which the G-Major just happens to have. The T-verb has 1/4" switching jacks for channel, FX loop, Reverb and Tremolo, of which I would probably only use the channel switch. If you were going to integrate a rack preamp and run it through the T-verb's FX loop, switching the FX loop in and out would be really handy. The G-major to T-verb cable would simply be a 1/4" TRS to dual 1/4" TS cable.

This is my T-verb:
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y34/afraiddave/hal9000_Blonde_Tremoverb_Head.jpg

This is my F-100:
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y34/afraiddave/Amp%20tower/F-100.jpg

[jcoggins7]

I just got the Stealth Boost, Neil, and it's great. Looks fantastic, and is a really great solo boost. Definitely worth my money.

[hal9000]

I just got the Stealth Boost, Neil, and it's great. Looks fantastic, and is a really great solo boost. Definitely worth my money.That's great Jeff! I aim to please. Have you used the SB with your whole rig yet?

This is what Jeff's Stealth Boost #2 looks like:
http://www.64graphics.com/stealthboost/Stealth_Boost_2_Assembled.jpg

[Joeytpg]

i really enjoy Neil's explanations.... good work buddy.

If you want a very tight distortion, ala Metallica MOP, which one you'll get? a Mark or a Recto?

[zer0psi]

That's great Jeff! I aim to please. Have you used the SB with your whole rig yet?

This is what Jeff's Stealth Boost #2 looks like:
http://www.64graphics.com/stealthboost/Stealth_Boost_2_Assembled.jpg


MAybe I missed something...where do I get one?

[Joeytpg]

brothers i just started this discussion....i'd love to hear your thoughts on the topic :) http://acapella.harmony-central.com/forums/showthread.php?p=20785629&posted=1#post20785629

[jcoggins7]

If you want a very tight distortion, ala Metallica MOP, which one you'll get? a Mark or a Recto?

Metallica has used primarily Mesa/Boogie Mark IIC+ and Mark IV amps.

And Neil, I haven't gotten to demo it with my full setup yet. I only got to test it for like 15 minutes with my roommate's Les Paul Standard and the amp, and those were at extremely quiet levels. I still have to figure out where I'm going to put my reverb/delay now that it's in the loop and try it at louder volumes. I should get to that tomorrow hopefully. I'll let you know.

[musicdog400]

Here is a drop tuned metal clip I did with my new 7 string.

Schecter Gryphon 7 string -> Carvin EQ->Mesa F-50->Weber Mass->
Behringer Ultra G->Linux Ardour->EQ Plugin


F-50 Clip (http://www.think600.com/7string2mix.mp3)

[millerd]

Has anyone used a Keeley Java boost with a F-50? I have a Ibanez JS-1200 and I find the dirty channel a bit too dark.

[hal9000]

Has anyone used a Keeley Java boost with a F-50? I have a Ibanez JS-1200 and I find the dirty channel a bit too dark.Hmm... Too dark? Are you sure you're hearing the actual speaker's direct sound and not standing off-axis?

I've used an HBE Germania, which is also a Treble Booster based on the Dallas Arbiter Rangemaster just like the Java Boost. I love what it does, but I wouldn't use it to correct for a dark amplifier. I have a clip in my sig of my F-100 with the Germania called "COC - Infinite War."

If you want more treble, get an MXR 10-band EQ and put it in the loop. You'll have a ton of control that way to dial in whatever you want.

[breakingstring]

Here is a drop tuned metal clip I did with my new 7 string.

Schecter Gryphon 7 string -> Carvin EQ->Mesa F-50->Weber Mass->
Behringer Ultra G->Linux Ardour->EQ Plugin


F-50 Clip (http://www.think600.com/7string2mix.mp3)

Sounds good. Is the EQ boosting the F-50? I just got a Bad Monkey today and have found it really works for tightening up the F-50.

[Rodimus Prime]

hey, i bought a marshall jcm800 lead series 4x12 with g12m-70's to go with my F-50. I know alot of people wail on these speakers for various reasons, but some like them and so far i'm one of them.
they're brighter than the C90 black shadow speaker and they have tighter/thinner bass than the v30 while maintaining all the mids. The highs seems to bloom very nicely when doing leads, you can really dig into it and it almost seems to sag a bit but they don't take your head off. There also seems to be less gain than the v30's. I don't know how thats possible but thats just what i'm hearing.
its big, but not bassy
tons of mids and touch sensitive highs. articulate but not overly bright.
very nice sounding. Its funny, i'm writing this thinking "man, this is great" and other people might write the exact same thing thinking "these speakers are junk!". I heard that these speakers in a combo are really thin and i can understand that but in a 4x12 they're perfect for me. in a 4x12, i'd probably like these better than v30's

[SERGV]

No secrets to share ... but I'm still digging my Mesa F-30! :D

[Joeytpg]

Hey Andy...i got a question for ya........

how do you like that Variax? i've been reading and researching on it for the last few days. Care to review is a little bit? :)

[millerd]

So everyone thinks an MXR 10 band eg will be better then a treble booster? I just want to lighen up the dirty channel. My clean sound is from the gods........

[hal9000]

F-100:
Chan Kinchla - Blues Traveler
Rick McRae - George Straight
Darius Rucker - Hootie and the Blowfish
Mark Bryan - Hootie and the Blowfish
Ernie Isley - Isley Brothers
Jason Truby - P.O.D.
Robert Randolph - Robert Randolph and the Family Band
Josh Partington - Something Corporate
Eric Krasno - Soulive
Eric Friedman - Submersed

F-50:
Ben Kenney - Incubus
Jinx Jones - Jinx Jones
Kevin Eubanks - Tonight Show, The
Tommi Inkila - Scenery Channel

F-30:
Ric Molina - 98 degrees
Mike Einziger - Incubus
Ben Kenney - Incubus

Source: http://www.mesaboogie.com/gallery_artist/art_gall.php

I just saw the pic of Robert Randolph using his F-100 head in the new Mesa catalog and I thought it would be interesting to let you guys know. :)

[Surfcaster]

Cool Hal, that is interesting.

On a more somber note, my F50 will be heading off to a repair facility here sometime soon. The Bright Switch is definitely not working, so that's what Tech Support recommended. I was happy to hear that there is a place only an hour away that is NOT listed on their website...the closest on their website was 2 hours. The repair guy said turn around time is about 3 weeks...good thing I have another good amp, so I shouldn't miss it too much. Plus I usually use the Toneport since it's late-night -family-friendly wiht the headphones and all.

[zer0psi]

If anyone is jonesing for an F-50 head, I have a pretty much mint one that I'm willing to part with. I want to be an amp collector, unfortunately funds don't allow, so I can only try things one at a time, and I caught a nasty bug for the more British VHT's. PM me if anyone has questions or offers.

[musicdog400]

Sounds good. Is the EQ boosting the F-50?

Not boosting. I use it to roll off the frequencies below 250 Hz, which tightens up the F-50 a lot, so palm mutes sound much better. Many tube screamer type pedals roll off some bass and can also be used for this purpose.



So everyone thinks an MXR 10 band eg will be better then a treble booster?
The EQ will give you more control. To tighten the sound up, you really want to reduce bass more than increase treble.

[VoodooChild24]

Has anyone used a Keeley Java boost with a F-50? I have a Ibanez JS-1200 and I find the dirty channel a bit too dark.

Hi millerd, i actually use my Keeley Java Boost on my F100 and i really does the opposite. It actually cut's the low end sound to give you a trebble boost.

Try messing with the EQ a bit and lower your bass setting on your amp.

:thu:

[musicdog400]

Sounds good. Is the EQ boosting the F-50?

Not boosting. I use it to roll off the frequencies below 250 Hz, which tightens up the F-50 a lot, so palm mutes sound much better. Many tube screamer type pedals roll off some bass and can also be used for this purpose.



So everyone thinks an MXR 10 band eg will be better then a treble booster?
The EQ will give you more control. To tighten the sound up, you really want to reduce bass more than increase treble.

[John Denver]

**Quick Question**

I have an F50 and a 8ohm hotplate. I want to run into a 4X12 Crate Bass cabinet....it's all i have to mess around with currently. If the Cab is set to 8ohm, can i plug both my combo speaker and the 4x12 into the 2 outputs on the hotplate? Basically, would this be the same as the two 8ohm cabs into the F50 4ohm plugs?.....i hear that is a safe match....thanks in advance!!

[Joeytpg]

hey guys.....i was hooking up my recording gear (i moved recently) and recorded this very short F-50 clip.... is a little piece of Harvester of Sorrow.....i think the F-series can hold up pretty well in the Metal Territory.... maybe's not as tight as a Mark so (Iced Earth, Lamb Of God, etc type of music won't sound too tight) but it's good enough.

Don't pay attention to the playing it's just tone.

no EQ, no Nothing....some reverb/delay/EQ in the Clean part. not much tho. Recorded using a Shure SM57, an M-Audio 410 in Pro Tools M-Powered

:)

http://www.soundclick.com/bands/pagemusic.cfm?bandID=577744

the first one "F50 test" :)

[VoodooChild24]

hey guys.....i was hooking up my recording gear (i moved recently) and recorded this very short F-50 clip.... is a little piece of Harvester of Sorrow.....i think the F-series can hold up pretty well in the Metal Territory.... maybe's not as tight as a Mark so (Iced Earth, Lamb Of God, etc type of music won't sound too tight) but it's good enough.

Don't pay attention to the playing it's just tone.

no EQ, no Nothing....some reverb/delay/EQ in the Clean part. not much tho. Recorded using a Shure SM57, an M-Audio 410 in Pro Tools M-Powered

:)

http://www.soundclick.com/bands/pagemusic.cfm?bandID=577744

the first one "F50 test" :)

That sounded good Joeytpg! Good playing too.

[VoodooChild24]

My F-series Brother,

Got the chance to use Hal9000's "stealth boost" pedal tonight and i really liked what i heard. I was able to crank up my rectifier by using the volume control of the SB without sacrificing the "tone and grit" of the recto. I know for a fact that i am not able to accomplish this tone using my THD hotplate.

The Stealth Boost is so transparent that it was able to attenuate without sucking the tone. Here's a clip that i made. Pardon me for my sloppy playing, just played some random chords in the end just to give an idea how it sounds for me. :thu:

Click
http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c77/VoodooChild24/Pedal-FX/th_Recto2.jpg (http://s25.photobucket.com/albums/c77/VoodooChild24/Pedal-FX/?action=view&current=Recto2.flv)



Here's a pic of my stealth boost pedal.
http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c77/VoodooChild24/Pedal-FX/DSC00761.jpg
Back
http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c77/VoodooChild24/Pedal-FX/DSC00765.jpg


I will experiment with the "Solo boost" feature tomorrow. :wave:

[jcoggins7]

I just found an F-30 video up on YouTube.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kjU4JAYG8Iw

[jcoggins7]

Another F-30 vid:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mjzn3zekfFY

[Joeytpg]

That sounded good Joeytpg! Good playing too.

thanks a lot buddy :wave: the playing was...... well :freak: i was going for tone pretty much not showing playing ability, but thanks! :D


i'll try to put up some more clips later

loved that recto sound you got there dude.....awasome... Hal rulz :evil:

[hal9000]

Here are two clips I recorded this morning with my newly purchased SM-57 and e609 mics. The SM-57 is fully left and the e609 is fully right for both so you can hear the difference and combined tones.

What the Hell Does hal9000 Have? (www.64graphics.com/clips/What_the_Hell_Does_hal9000_Have.mp3)

hal9000 Will Rock You! (www.64graphics.com/clips/hal9000_Will_Rock_You.mp3)

Here is the setting I used:
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y34/afraiddave/hal9000F-100SettingWeWillRockYou.jpg

On the AiC clip, I used the same EQ, but with the gain up to 12:00, in Contour, and no Germania. On the Queen clip, I recorded like it shows. The master is misleading because I'm actually attenuating the loop with my FX mix pot master set around 2:00 (the Hot Plate is set to 0 dB so it's not attenuating at all). Finally, I used my Ravelle Limited's bridge SD Custom for both clips and my Line6 Toneport UX-2 for mic preamps and the USB interface.

[Joeytpg]

wow Neil..... the Queen clip sounds almost like a MArshall......

gotta love the F-Series....it's just Too damn versatile! nicely done bro.

[VoodooChild24]

Hey Neil, im digging the We will Rock you clip. Great!

[Dann'sTheMan]

Hal, Andy, Tommi?....can you recommend me new tubes? i play hard-rock mostly.....so i want some tubes that will help the "Heavyness" of the amp....

Hey Joeytpg,

Sorry for taking so long to respond. I've only had time to lurk here recently - I've been spending a lot of time looking after my better half, as we're expecting our third child, :thu: and she's been going through the mill with the morning sickness. :eek:

Regarding the tubes I use: I have JJs (ECC83S) in V1 and V2; stock Mesa 12AX7s in V3 and V4; and TAD 6L6WGC-STR R.C.A BLACK PLATE REPLICAs in the Power amp. I certainly recommend this combination. I'm about due a retube, and when I do indulge, I'll probably experiment again with the pre-amp tubes - maybe try some cryo-treated tubes. I'm pretty happy with TADs in the power section, and I'll probaby stay with this brand this time round. :)

Big smiles,

Andy.

[Dann'sTheMan]

I am net to this forum, I have been reading it for a couple of months, and the advice here is great. I have had my F50 for just over two years, and it sounds great. I traded in a Mk IV for the F50. The Mk IV does not have a clean that sounds half as good as the F50. I have been getting into heavyer music lately, and am trying to get some good heavy sounds. I have tried some of the setting smentioned in the start of this thread, but I just can't seem to nail the sound that I have in my head. I have tried a V30, C90, and Jensen neo 12-100 speakers, and I am close with the neo. I am thinking that I will need to switch to a 4 12 cab to nail the sound that I want which is similar to Tomi's sound on his clips. Does anyone have any advice about how to get this sound??

Hi Mesa+PRS= :-)

and congratulations with your F-50 and welcome to the F-series Lounge. I'm another who personally prefers the F-50 to the mighty MkIV. If you're after a heavier tone, then there's no substitute for a closed back cab. A 4x12 is ideal, but it will dominate the sound if you run it alongside your combo's speaker. A 2x12 may be better balanced, but it may not be as authoritative with the low end.

Other tricks you might try include positioning your combo next to a wall - I find that placing something on top of the combo that boxes in the space behind the amp helps too (I use my rack case). :thu:

Big smiles,

Andy.

[Rodimus Prime]

(whistles)
nice clips. good to know how versatile these amps are!

[Dann'sTheMan]

This thread is really useful.

However, I still have some questions maybe someone can help me with.

I haven't had my F50 combo for very long, in fact such a short time it hasn't been out of the house. I love the way it sounds, except for one thing - the palm mutes. All I seem to be able to get out of this thing is a sort of a 'thud' not a crunchy sound that makes them sound so good. This is especially true when playing just one string. I've tried different gain levels as well as some of the EQ settings suggested here but to no avail. I've only had the amp up to just below 9 o'clock, so I'm wondering if that could be it. But considering how loud it sounds, I'm not sure if would make a huge difference to blow the doors off. One other thing to note is that I'm using an EMG 81 in the bridge, which is a very hot active humbucker. It normally excels at muting. I've also tried other guitars, but I get the same result.

Any thoughts? The only idea I have is to get a bad monkey to boost the amp, maybe tighten it up?

Thanks if you can help!

Hi breakingstring,

and welcome to the F-series brotherhood. I agree with the wise advice already given - an EQ in the loop could really help. In fact, I'd suggest the ultimate solution would be to run an EQ in front of the amp as well - this EQ would cut the bass, so that the F-50's pre-amp doesn't get swamped with low frequencies. You'd then use the EQ in the loop to add back in the low frequencies. I've heard some great results from this approach with the F-series. :thu:

Big smiles,

Andy.

[Joeytpg]

Hey Joeytpg,

Sorry for taking so long to respond. I've only had time to lurk here recently - I've been spending a lot of time looking after my better half, as we're expecting our third child, :thu: and she's been going through the mill with the morning sickness. :eek:

Regarding the tubes I use: I have JJs (ECC83S) in V1 and V2; stock Mesa 12AX7s in V3 and V4; and TAD 6L6WGC-STR R.C.A BLACK PLATE REPLICAs in the Power amp. I certainly recommend this combination. I'm about due a retube, and when I do indulge, I'll probably experiment again with the pre-amp tubes - maybe try some cryo-treated tubes. I'm pretty happy with TADs in the power section, and I'll probaby stay with this brand this time round. :)

Big smiles,

Andy.


hey andy... thanks for the reply buddy.... congrats on the new family member buddy! how old are the other kids? :) any musician?

Where do you buy your tubes andy, because i know you're in England, i'm in Spain... so i can buy in the same place you buy, if it's on the internet.


Another thing buddy....could you talk to me about your Variax? how is it? like it??

[Dann'sTheMan]

hey andy... thanks for the reply buddy.... congrats on the new family member buddy! how old are the other kids? :) any musician?

Where do you buy your tubes andy, because i know you're in England, i'm in Spain... so i can buy in the same place you buy, if it's on the internet.


Another thing buddy....could you talk to me about your Variax? how is it? like it??

Ola Joeytpg,

and thanks. My two girls are 6 and the youngest turned 5 today. :)

I buy my tubes from www.watfordvalves.com - really knowledgeable and highly respected. Recommended. :thu:

Regarding my Variax - I bought it the same day as my F-50. I wanted it primarily as a live acoustic, as I didn't want to take my sweet Brazilian Taylor to the less posh gigs (having suffered a heart-breaking ding). I've even strung the Variax with acoustic strings, and through a good PA - it sounds great as an acoustic. I also really like the resonator and jazz box tones.

On the electric side - I've never really been blown away by the playability, but it does the job, and it's not UNplayable. I've done some TV sessions with it where I needed to switch from an acoustic sound to a distorted electric tone mid-song, and there's no simpler way to do it. I've also played around with tracking some sitar overdubs in the studio - worked really well. I like the alternate tuning possibilities with the Workbench software - but I haven't made use of it a great deal as I'm a standard tuning kind of guy. :o

I've had some reliability problems with mine - and it's been back to Line6 4 times in three years with power supply issues. The last time, they switched out the motherboard - essentially turning it into a new guitar - and it's been rock solid ever since.

Basically, I see my Variax as a tool. It doesn't move me emotionally like my Charvel or PRS, but I think it makes the ideal second guitar at a gig, or a live acoustic, or as an overdub guitar in the studio. The more recent 600 and 700 models seem much more fun to play - if you can find one at a good price, and if you don't expect it to be your main guitar, then why not. :)

Big smiles,

Andy.

[Dann'sTheMan]

Just got my F-50 combo this past weekend. My girls about to get rid of me cuz all i wanna do is play it. DOn't care. It is definitely better to my ears than her anyway.

I ran my late 70's early 80's Fender 15" sidekick bass cab through the F-50. WOW!! The sound is unique, lots more tone than the C90. What's the deal with bass cabs? Anybody else use em? They seem to get great sound from a guitar, maybe the highs are a bit more subtle, but dang the mid/bass response!

Thanks to all the posters who influenced my decision on the 50. Mesa rocks!

Welcome to the brotherhood, twolfe278 :)

Hope your girls have adjusted to the new smile-inducer in your life. :) What kind of music do you play?

Big smiles,

Andy.

[Dann'sTheMan]

Here is a drop tuned metal clip I did with my new 7 string.

Schecter Gryphon 7 string -> Carvin EQ->Mesa F-50->Weber Mass->
Behringer Ultra G->Linux Ardour->EQ Plugin


F-50 Clip (http://www.think600.com/7string2mix.mp3)

Hi musicdog400,

Your musical diversity always puts a smile on my face - jazz to mosh. Love it! Sweet clip, sweet playing too! :thu:

Big smiles,

Andy.

[rakester]

Just took the F-30 combo out of its cab to replace a pre-amp tube. All went in well and its back together now. But now the knobs on front on the control panel feel tighter...help

[Dann'sTheMan]

hey guys.....i was hooking up my recording gear (i moved recently) and recorded this very short F-50 clip.... is a little piece of Harvester of Sorrow.....i think the F-series can hold up pretty well in the Metal Territory.... maybe's not as tight as a Mark so (Iced Earth, Lamb Of God, etc type of music won't sound too tight) but it's good enough.

Don't pay attention to the playing it's just tone.

no EQ, no Nothing....some reverb/delay/EQ in the Clean part. not much tho. Recorded using a Shure SM57, an M-Audio 410 in Pro Tools M-Powered

:)

http://www.soundclick.com/bands/pagemusic.cfm?bandID=577744

the first one "F50 test" :)


Hi Joeytpg,

I liked the tones and the playing! :thu: I'd suggest getting the levels normalised, but beyond that, I think it was a sweet representation of the stealth amp. :) I look forward to hearing more clips from you. :cool:

Big smiles,

Andy.

[rakester]

Just took the F-30 combo out of its cab to replace a pre-amp tube. All went in well and its back together now. But now the knobs on front on the control panel feel tighter...help

bump for help

[Joeytpg]

nice andy... happy bday to your daughter, i bet she's a lovely young girl :)


Variax: i just wanted to know how are they....it seems like a VERY nice concept.....specially for a Homestudio tool. I'm getting into some homestudio work (jingles and stuff) and i don't want to spend too much cash.

I believe a simple/good sounding rig can do the job perfectly. A couple of nice guitars, a good solid amp, a good modeler for variety, some decent Preamps, fast computer, a bass (doen't have to be expensive, since it's for recording purposes), Midi Keyboard, EZDrummer, a nice mixer/controller, couple of mics, monitors and you're set to go.

:D

anyways....my F-50 has 4 year old tubes, but remained unplayed for a year and a half before i bought it....so i don't know if i should change the tubes. Doesn't sound too bad to me....but again, i'm new to the tube amps world, so i don't really know JUST YET, how to pick up tubes degradation.

Do you think i should swap em?

thanks buddy. ;)

[Dann'sTheMan]

Here are two clips I recorded this morning with my newly purchased SM-57 and e609 mics. The SM-57 is fully left and the e609 is fully right for both so you can hear the difference and combined tones.

Here is the setting I used:

On the AiC clip, I used the same EQ, but with the gain up to 12:00 and no Germania. On the Queen clip, I recorded like it shows. The master is misleading because I'm actually attenuating the loop with my FX mix pot master set around 2:00 (the Hot Plate is set to 0 dB so it's not attenuating at all). Finally, I used my Ravelle Limited's bridge SD Custom for both clips and my Line6 Toneport UX-2 for mic preamps and the USB interface.

Hi Neil,

How are you my friend? Sterling work with these clips. You've mastered the direct approach, and now you're mopping up with the miked approach. :cool:

I really liked these clips. I'm gonna have to spend some time comparing the E609 to the SM57 - my mainstay, as you know. The AiC clip sounded more hard rock than metal - but I don't know what the original sounded like, so it may have been in keeping with the original tone. Regardless, it sounded great, and your playing rocked, and you know I love dialling similar tones. :thu:

I absolutely loved the Queen clip - Monster tone - and you really captured the vibe with your playing. One of my favourite clips from you, Neil, and I think it does a fantastic job of showing just how well the F-series rocks. :)

Big smiles,

Andy.

P.S. I need to make some time to get all of these excellent recent clips into the Archive in the first post. :p

[Dann'sTheMan]

Another F-30 vid:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mjzn3zekfFY

Thanks for the links! :) Hope these owners know about the Lounge. :thu:

Big smiles,

Andy.

[Dann'sTheMan]

Just took the F-30 combo out of its cab to replace a pre-amp tube. All went in well and its back together now. But now the knobs on front on the control panel feel tighter...help

Hi rakester,

Where I'd probably start, is to disassemble the amp once more, and check if the knobs rotate more freely, when the chassis is out of the shell. Next, check to see if any of the flying leads could have become trapped when putting the chassis into the shell. Let us know how you got on. :)

Big smiles,

Andy.

[rakester]

cheers Dan, will do it tomorrow. I'm gonna post my f-30 metal clips as well tomorrow :)

[Dann'sTheMan]

nice andy... happy bday to your daughter, i bet she's a lovely young girl :)


Variax: i just wanted to know how are they....it seems like a VERY nice concept.....specially for a Homestudio tool. I'm getting into some homestudio work (jingles and stuff) and i don't want to spend too much cash.

I believe a simple/good sounding rig can do the job perfectly. A couple of nice guitars, a good solid amp, a good modeler for variety, some decent Preamps, fast computer, a bass (doen't have to be expensive, since it's for recording purposes), Midi Keyboard, EZDrummer, a nice mixer/controller, couple of mics, monitors and you're set to go.

:D

anyways....my F-50 has 4 year old tubes, but remained unplayed for a year and a half before i bought it....so i don't know if i should change the tubes. Doesn't sound too bad to me....but again, i'm new to the tube amps world, so i don't really know JUST YET, how to pick up tubes degradation.

Do you think i should swap em?

thanks buddy. ;)

Hi Joeytpg,

I think the Variax may make a great tool for your needs. I think it would be particularly strong for overdubs. However, if you need it to lay down your main guitar tones - especially low gain and clean ones, make sure you're happy it does the job for the types of tones you rely on. As I'm primarily a strat kind of guy, the Variax didn't cut it for me for strat type tones. On the flipside, I've read on the web of some serious tele guys, who have found the Variax delivers the goods as a tele substitute.

As we've all discovered, modelling may do better with particular models compared to others. For me, the strat type tones on my original Variax (later renamed Variax 500), were'nt that strong. However, I hear the trem equipeed Variax 600 does better for the strat thing, but it's Les Paul and Acoustic tones have suffered as a consequence. :eek:

Also, remember that you will likely have to redial back in the amp as you change guitar models. If you're considering getting an amp modeller too, then in my experience, the Variax matches particularly well with the Line6 range (unsurprisingly), and this can be a particularly fast way of getting classic rig combination tones down to tape. :cool:

Regarding your tubes, I'd probably recommend at least changing your power tubes. Pre-amp tubes do often last for years. Power amp tubes however can fail at any time, and can take components like screen resistors with them when they go. If you're not sure how much life your Power tubes have got in them, I'd replace them with a fresh set, rather than risk leaving them in. :)

Big smiles,

Andy.

[Joeytpg]

great...nice Andy..... the poweramp tubes are the ones that change the tone the most right?

[Adam Poland]

great...nice Andy..... the poweramp tubes are the ones that change the tone the most right?

In my experience, the preamp tubes made the most difference. Only time I know it's time to change my power tubes is when I hear that annoying springy sound.

[Dann'sTheMan]

In my experience, the preamp tubes made the most difference. Only time I know it's time to change my power tubes is when I hear that annoying springy sound.

I agree with Adam,

In pre-amp voiced designs like the F-series, different pre-amp tubes have the largest impact in the overall tone. However, power tubes are the biggest risk if they were to fail due to age.

This is why I recommended at least changing your power tubes. If you also want to experiment with the preamp tubes, maybe start by buying a couple to try out in V1 and V2. :thu:

Big smiles,

Andy.

[Lt_Core]

Hi Neil,

Awesome jobs on the clips! That Queen tone is fantastic. I've never had my mids at 3 o'clock and treble around 9 o'clock. Going to give that a shot. Nice work!

[zer0psi]

Hi Neil,

Awesome jobs on the clips! That Queen tone is fantastic. I've never had my mids at 3 o'clock and treble around 9 o'clock. Going to give that a shot. Nice work!

I was just playing mine with the treble low and mids cranked. Sounds different than you might think, in a very good way. These amps are counter-intuitive I swear, but they work.

[hal9000]

Hi Neil,

Awesome jobs on the clips! That Queen tone is fantastic. I've never had my mids at 3 o'clock and treble around 9 o'clock. Going to give that a shot. Nice work!Jeff, thanks! Yup, high mids and low treble give the F-series a bit of a British bite to the tone. I actually play with my mids on 3:00 with the bass at 9:00 most of the time. If you're really looking for Brian May tones, a decent treble booster like the Germania is crucial.

[Ogi-wan]

Hal9000, How's that Century Vintage working out for you?

Was it the change of sound/tone or the change in weight that was the primary motivator for you to replace the V30?

What do you think of it now that you've had it for a while?

(Also, did you get your 20th Silo yet?)

[Lt_Core]

Jeff, thanks! Yup, high mids and low treble give the F-series a bit of a British bite to the tone. I actually play with my mids on 3:00 with the bass at 9:00 most of the time. If you're really looking for Brian May tones, a decent treble booster like the Germania is crucial.

I just got an AC Booster and I bet I could push the treble with that pedal. Can't wait to try those settings at our practice space. No way I can really fire it up at home :)

[dave999]

Hello all -new to this forum.

I bought an F-50 head a few months ago, and the only major thing I don't like about it is that the FX mix control for the parallel loop doesn't go to 100% (which I didn't realize when I ordered it). Please see the explanation for wanting this below, if you're interested.

But then I saw a pointer to a rear panel shot in here which shows 100%:-
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y34/afraiddave/hal9000F-SeriesMixPotMasterRevB.jpg

Perhaps I have been sold an old unit (?) because I wanted a head rather than the usual combo? Anyone any idea whether I could have the unit modified?

cheers
Dave
-------------- 8< ------------
Explanation for wanting 100% FX mix (same as a serial loop):-

I use a Boss GT-8 and have found that this sounds best in an FX loop rather than in front of the amp. (I like to reverb or phase my distortion, not distort my reverb or phasing).

I have another amp with a serial loop, and with the GT-8 in the loop, its volume pedal can be used like a master volume, which can be very useful.

With the F-50 parallel loop 90% mix, some of the direct signal bleeds through, and with the volume pedal less than about 2/3 open, you get a strange comb filter or phasing type effect (the sound is unusable). Also silent tuning on the GT-8 is no longer silent, which is annoying.

[hal9000]

Hello all -new to this forum.

I bought an F-50 head a few months ago, and the only major thing I don't like about it is that the FX mix control for the parallel loop doesn't go to 100% (which I didn't realize when I ordered it). Please see the explanation for wanting this below, if you're interested.

But then I saw a pointer to a rear panel shot in here which shows 100%:-
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y34/afraiddave/hal9000F-SeriesMixPotMasterRevB.jpg

Perhaps I have been sold an old unit (?) because I wanted a head rather than the usual combo? Anyone any idea whether I could have the unit modified?

cheers
Dave
-------------- 8< ------------
Explanation for wanting 100% FX mix (same as a serial loop):-

I use a Boss GT-8 and have found that this sounds best in an FX loop rather than in front of the amp. (I like to reverb or phase my distortion, not distort my reverb or phasing).

I have another amp with a serial loop, and with the GT-8 in the loop, its volume pedal can be used like a master volume, which can be very useful.

With the F-50 parallel loop 90% mix, some of the direct signal bleeds through, and with the volume pedal less than about 2/3 open, you get a strange comb filter or phasing type effect (the sound is unusable). Also silent tuning on the GT-8 is no longer silent, which is annoying.Dave, welcome to teh forum and the F-series brotherhood! :)

That's my drawing, and I made it based on the manual. The manual is incorrectly marked 100%. It should be 90%.

Lots of people have asked about the series FX loop mod and it's actually quite simple. There are two wires that change place, so it should only take a few minutes if you're handy with a soldering iron. If not, it should be $25- $50 for a tech to do the same. I attached the mod from Mesa.

BTW, I use a G-Major with my F-100 and the parallel loop has never bothered me. Now, I don't do any volume swells from 0-100%, but I do tune on stage and that last 10% isn't that loud. Perhaps setting the GT-8 up using the 4-cable method will allow you to get the control you need without modding the amp? If your volume pedal is out front in the FX routing, rather than after the loop, it will affect the whole signal, or you could simply mute the GT-8's output upon entering tuner mode.

[dave999]

HAL9000, thanks for the very quick response, and for the mod diagram.
That's what I was hoping to hear. :)
I'll go & investigate the 4-cable setup for the GT-8 too, first.

Thanks again
Dave

[ashjn]

I had a GT-Pro and couldn't get it to work right with the F-100 parallel loop. Worked fine with the Stiletto's series loop though

[Goldwing]

Hi Dave. I currently have a GT8 and F50. I found problems running it in the 4CM, the same that its described above. I place the GT8 in front of the F50 this allow me to have a little "extra" features that worth this setup: You could use the effects loop of the GT8 to place any analog pedal that you like and placed anywhere in the effects chain. And you can activate this loop with the CTL pedal of the GT8 so.. no more tap dancing!!. With a little more tweak and a CFX4 of axiss you could have the same features that the G-system of TC ELectronics delivers.

Also, you could use the "seriesMixPotMaster" mod that Hal posted and then have enough control of you general volume.

Just my experience...

cheers!!

[hal9000]

Hal9000, How's that Century Vintage working out for you?

Was it the change of sound/tone or the change in weight that was the primary motivator for you to replace the V30?

What do you think of it now that you've had it for a while?

(Also, did you get your 20th Silo yet?)I really like the Century Vintage speakers because they gave me basically the same V30 tone I already liked, but lightened by F-100 combo by 13 lbs. :) The CV is in fact a Vintage 30, but with a neo magnet, so it has a faster bass response and little less mid-spike.

I didn't get my 20th Silo yet, but it's being built as I type. I should be done in a week or so.

[Nemesys]

Hi everyone! (I'm new here)

I bought a new F-50 about a month ago. I love the tone, my standard for clean tone used to be a Fender Twin Reverb, which I played side-by-side with the F-50 in the store. Not much price difference, and the Mesa just sounded better, much more full and authoritative.

The reason I'm posting is that I've noticed, over the past couple of weeks, a popping noise when I switch into standby mode after using the amp. It started as a minor clicking noise at first, similar to the sound the relays in the channel-switching circuit make the first time the channels are switched, so I didn't think anything of it until the past couple of days, when it developed into a fairly explosive noise. It's not quite at ear or speaker-damaging levels yet, but it'll probably get there if current trends continue. It doesn't happen when switching from 'Standby' to 'On', just the other way. My first thought, as my impression is that the standby function just turns the tubes on and off (except for the heaters), was that it was something to do with the power tubes, so I put the original ones back in (I bought a duet of Mesa 5881s for a bit of a darker sound), but it did the same thing. I noticed as well that the noise is unaffected by the volume/tone controls, but it does sound slightly different based on the currently active channel, and whether contour mode is active on the red channel (so, the noise must be originating somewhere in the preamp). I noticed as well that the inactive channel's LED on the front panel will flash momentarily while the sound happens.

I suppose the next thing to check for is probably a noisy preamp tube, but I don't have any spares, so I don't have a way of doing it at this point. I decided to post here to see if anyone who knows more about tube amps than I do has a better idea of what to check before I call Mesa or buy a 12AX7 to test with.

Any assistance anyone can offer is appreciated. I posted this on the Boogie Board too, so between the two forums, hopefully someone can help me. :D

[RyGy]

I would take it in to a Mesa Boogie authorized repair center, or take it back to where you got it to exchange it. There is a posibility that it can damage your amp. I have a background in electronics, and to me it sounds like it could be a problem in the bias circuit which basically means that you are putting DC voltage to your speaker. That will tear your speaker apart over time. The poping sound could be the DC voltage being turned off by removing the high voltage from the tubes.....Then again I could be completely wrong. But I would definitly have it taken care of ASAP.

[John Denver]

I am once again experiencing issues with my F50.
The volume will drop at random times and remain at like 10% of the original volume. This is corrected by switching to standby for a few moments.

It sounded to me like a power tube issue, but i just had them replaced with a matched mesa set due to a blown screen grid resistor a month ago. The Mesa rep said i should try pre-amp tubes. Does anyone else have any ideas. I'm just worried that if it is the power tube, something else may be causing them to die? I tapped on V1 and got no noise. I wasn't sure if a pre-amp tube can cause the volume to drop and then return.... Please give me some pointers guys!

[musicdog400]

Hal, thanks for the mic clips. I have an SM57 and am interested in the E609. I couldn't really tell the difference between the two just trying to pull one side of the headphones off. I have been meaning to post a comparison between the 57 and the PAIA Mid side stereo mic I have.

When I record with the SM57, there is always a little something ugly going on with the upper mids, or highs, that I fix with the EQ. Do you like the high end on the 57 or the 609 better ?

[hal9000]

Hal, thanks for the mic clips. I have an SM57 and am interested in the E609. I couldn't really tell the difference between the two just trying to pull one side of the headphones off. I have been meaning to post a comparison between the 57 and the PAIA Mid side stereo mic I have.

When I record with the SM57, there is always a little something ugly going on with the upper mids, or highs, that I fix with the EQ. Do you like the high end on the 57 or the 609 better ?I think the 57 is more pleasing for the highs and it has a lot of mids which I really like. The e609 by comparison is mid-scooped with a lot more presence, so it needs to be farther out on the cone than the 57 for the same high end response. If I had the e609 in the same place and the 57 there would be a huge difference.

[John Denver]

I am once again experiencing issues with my F50.
The volume will drop at random times and remain at like 10% of the original volume. This is corrected by switching to standby for a few moments.

It sounded to me like a power tube issue, but i just had them replaced with a matched mesa set due to a blown screen grid resistor a month ago. The Mesa rep said i should try pre-amp tubes. Does anyone else have any ideas. I'm just worried that if it is the power tube, something else may be causing them to die? I tapped on V1 and got no noise. I wasn't sure if a pre-amp tube can cause the volume to drop and then return.... Please give me some pointers guys!

[jcoggins7]

I am once again experiencing issues with my F50.
The volume will drop at random times and remain at like 10% of the original volume. This is corrected by switching to standby for a few moments.

It sounded to me like a power tube issue, but i just had them replaced with a matched mesa set due to a blown screen grid resistor a month ago. The Mesa rep said i should try pre-amp tubes. Does anyone else have any ideas. I'm just worried that if it is the power tube, something else may be causing them to die? I tapped on V1 and got no noise. I wasn't sure if a pre-amp tube can cause the volume to drop and then return.... Please give me some pointers guys!

I had this same problem, and when I changed my power tubes, the problem was solved.

[Lt_Core]

Hey guys, I need the dimensions on the F-50 but I'm not at home. Of course the manual doesn't list the dimensions. Thanks!

[hal9000]

Hey guys, I need the dimensions on the F-50 but I'm not at home. Of course the manual doesn't list the dimensions. Thanks!F50 COMBO 18 7/8" high x 22 1/2" wide x 11 1/4" deep, 54 lbs.

Source: http://www.mesaboogie.com/Product_Info/Product_Guide/ProdRef_0206.pdf

[Dann'sTheMan]

Hey Guys,

Just checking in from Norway - I'm here for a few days for a conference. What better way to check out the internet connection than checking out the F-series Lounge. :p Anyway, I better get to work,

Rock on and big smiles,

Andy.

[Torh]

Norway, you say? That's my country, wee. :) Well, one advice from me, don't check out the music stores if you plan purchasing something then -- prices are relatively ridiculous high for musical gear! Out of curiosity, what conference is it?

[Nemesys]

I would take it in to a Mesa Boogie authorized repair center, or take it back to where you got it to exchange it. There is a posibility that it can damage your amp. I have a background in electronics, and to me it sounds like it could be a problem in the bias circuit which basically means that you are putting DC voltage to your speaker. That will tear your speaker apart over time. The poping sound could be the DC voltage being turned off by removing the high voltage from the tubes.....Then again I could be completely wrong. But I would definitly have it taken care of ASAP.

Thanks for the feedback -- on your advice I called Mesa yesterday. The tech said it sounded like a bad preamp tube until I got to the part about the inactive channel LED lighting along with the explosive noise. He sounded worried about that part, so he suggested I take it to an authorized repair center. The good news is that there's a repair center near me, which was sort of a surprise, as I live in the middle of nowhere. So, I took my amp to the repair center on my lunch break, and the owner seemed to think the channel LED thing is bad too, so he's going to go through the amp thoroughly and test every component for me.

I miss my amp. :cry:

[Dann'sTheMan]

Norway, you say? That's my country, wee. :) Well, one advice from me, don't check out the music stores if you plan purchasing something then -- prices are relatively ridiculous high for musical gear! Out of curiosity, what conference is it?


Hi Torh,

With all of the talented Scandinavian brothers here, I thought there was someone from Norway. :p I'm currently in Gardermoen near Oslo airport. I'm speaking about Video at a Symposium for DICOM and HL7 - a couple of technical standards in the Healthcare field.

Regarding checking out music shops - this is certainly something I like to do when I'm travelling. At the moment, I don't know how easy it's going to be to get around - especially in this weather (there's a lot of snow outside my hotel window :eek: :D )

Big smiles,

Andy.

[Dann'sTheMan]

Thanks for the feedback -- on your advice I called Mesa yesterday. The tech said it sounded like a bad preamp tube until I got to the part about the inactive channel LED lighting along with the explosive noise. He sounded worried about that part, so he suggested I take it to an authorized repair center. The good news is that there's a repair center near me, which was sort of a surprise, as I live in the middle of nowhere. So, I took my amp to the repair center on my lunch break, and the owner seemed to think the channel LED thing is bad too, so he's going to go through the amp thoroughly and test every component for me.

I miss my amp. :cry:

Glad it's getting sorted! Mesa+PRS= :-)'s advice was spot on. :thu:

Big smiles,

Andy.

[Torh]

Hi Torh,

With all of the talented Scandinavian brothers here, I thought there was someone from Norway. :p I'm currently in Gardermoen near Oslo airport. I'm speaking about Video at a Symposium for DICOM and HL7 - a couple of technical standards in the Healthcare field.

Regarding checking out music shops - this is certainly something I like to do when I'm travelling. At the moment, I don't know how easy it's going to be to get around - especially in this weather (there's a lot of snow outside my hotel window :eek: :D )

Big smiles,

Andy.

Hmm, if I attended that conference I'd walk out as a single big question mark... but I hope all involved will get a lot out of being there. :) Good luck with your presentation, I'm sure people will find it very informative, based on all the help you have given to the F-series brothers. :D

Hm, I would like to help you out finding good shops where you are, but I'm not familiar with that area... It might even be there aren't any shops in the nearby, considering you are in the Gardermoen area.. But I really don't know, hopefully some helpful locals will help you out.

As for the snow, isn't it beautiful? :thu: When I woke up this Saturday, the scenery was so nice outside my window (it had snowed the evening before, no clouds on the sky, -19C), I had to go out and take pictures. Here are some I took (I live some 120 km north of Oslo):

http://home.no/haakontor/10.%20feb%20001.JPG

http://home.no/haakontor/10.%20feb%20008.JPG

http://home.no/haakontor/10.%20feb%20011.JPG

http://home.no/haakontor/10.%20feb%20028.JPG

[RyGy]

Thanks for the feedback -- on your advice I called Mesa yesterday. The tech said it sounded like a bad preamp tube until I got to the part about the inactive channel LED lighting along with the explosive noise. He sounded worried about that part, so he suggested I take it to an authorized repair center. The good news is that there's a repair center near me, which was sort of a surprise, as I live in the middle of nowhere. So, I took my amp to the repair center on my lunch break, and the owner seemed to think the channel LED thing is bad too, so he's going to go through the amp thoroughly and test every component for me.

I miss my amp. :cry:

When you get your amp back can you let me know what the problem was. I keep trying to learn more about amp repair. All my electronics classes, and I didn't learn a thing about tubes :mad: I am kind of teaching myself, and the more info that I can get the better.

[Nemesys]

Sure, no problem :D -- I'll post what happened in here just in case someone else runs into the same problem later. The owner of the repair center said that he would probably start working on it today, and that it would probably be done in a few days, up to a week or so depending on what parts he needs to order.

[ashjn]

Hmm, if I attended that conference I'd walk out as a single big question mark... but I hope all involved will get a lot out of being there. :) Good luck with your presentation, I'm sure people will find it very informative, based on all the help you have given to the F-series brothers. :D

Hm, I would like to help you out finding good shops where you are, but I'm not familiar with that area... It might even be there aren't any shops in the nearby, considering you are in the Gardermoen area.. But I really don't know, hopefully some helpful locals will help you out.

As for the snow, isn't it beautiful? :thu: When I woke up this Saturday, the scenery was so nice outside my window (it had snowed the evening before, no clouds on the sky, -19C), I had to go out and take pictures. Here are some I took (I live some 120 km north of Oslo):

http://home.no/haakontor/10.%20feb%20001.JPG

http://home.no/haakontor/10.%20feb%20008.JPG

http://home.no/haakontor/10.%20feb%20011.JPG

http://home.no/haakontor/10.%20feb%20028.JPG

Damn not bad. Anywhere to go skiing around you?

[Dann'sTheMan]

Hmm, if I attended that conference I'd walk out as a single big question mark... but I hope all involved will get a lot out of being there. :) Good luck with your presentation, I'm sure people will find it very informative, based on all the help you have given to the F-series brothers. :D

Hm, I would like to help you out finding good shops where you are, but I'm not familiar with that area... It might even be there aren't any shops in the nearby, considering you are in the Gardermoen area.. But I really don't know, hopefully some helpful locals will help you out.

As for the snow, isn't it beautiful? :thu: When I woke up this Saturday, the scenery was so nice outside my window (it had snowed the evening before, no clouds on the sky, -19C), I had to go out and take pictures. Here are some I took (I live some 120 km north of Oslo):

<snip\>


Beautiful photos, Torh!

Beautiful country indeed. I have some Norwegian friends back in the UK and they are great. I hope I get some time tomorrow to just wander - the photos you posted are pretty inspiring. :thu:

Big smiles,

Andy.

P.S. Presentation is tomorrow - thanks for the well wishes. :)

[Lt_Core]

I've been thinking about getting a closed-back Avatar 212 with V30's or Hellatone 60's. If I added a G12H30 in place of a V30 or H60, what would that do to the overall tone?

Our amps/cabs are mic'd at our shows. The V30 would cut through better, I think. My only real-world amp/speaker experience (since switching from Line 6 modeling stuff) has been my F-50 C90, now a Jensen NEO 100. Thanks, guys!

[Joeytpg]

guys here's a simple little video i made. It's my Strat straight into the F-50, no boost. sorry for the sloppy playing at the beginning and end of the clip

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ELC_26mEoIQ

[Surfcaster]

I've been thinking about getting a closed-back Avatar 212 with V30's or Hellatone 60's. If I added a G12H30 in place of a V30 or H60, what would that do to the overall tone?

Our amps/cabs are mic'd at our shows. The V30 would cut through better, I think. My only real-world amp/speaker experience (since switching from Line 6 modeling stuff) has been my F-50 C90, now a Jensen NEO 100. Thanks, guys!


I've got a V30 and a G12H30 (Hellatone 30) in a 2x12 cab and I like the combination pretty well. The G12H30 will add low end to the cab and some really high "crispies". If you're just standing in front of the cab, you mostly hear the V30 due to it's upper mids emphasis, but with a fuller bottom end and a little extra crsipiness on the top. If you're micing, you either have to mic both speakers or pick the one you want in the PA. If you're close mic'ing just one speaker you will get very little, if any, of the other speaker. So that would be one thing to consider.

In the end, I think I like my F50 through the stock C90 a little better than the 2x12 with the V30 and G12H30. But I really got that cab to use with another amp, and it works really well with that amp. Plus I keep thinking one day I may get a Marshall head for those more vintage Marshall tones, in which case I would expect that cab to be a great match.

[Surfcaster]

guys here's a simple little video i made. It's my Strat straight into the F-50, no boost. sorry for the sloppy playing at the beginning and end of the clip

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ELC_26mEoIQ

You got some pretty sweet tone there, Joeytpg, and I thought your playing was fine. Thanks for sharing!

[ashjn]

guys here's a simple little video i made. It's my Strat straight into the F-50, no boost. sorry for the sloppy playing at the beginning and end of the clip

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ELC_26mEoIQ

I like the tone...What are your settings?

[Joeytpg]

thanks a lot Surfcaster! :D

ashjn:

thanks to you too. The settings are: (in clock possition Reference)

Gain: 1.5 (almost 2 o clock)
Treble: 12.5
Mid: 10.5
Bass: 11:00
Reverb: 8.5
Master: 8:5 (I recorded the clip at a VERY VERY low volume since it was night and i live in an Apartment. But keep in mind that i have Hal's Serial Loop Mod)

i'l record some more F-50 clips later.

[Lt_Core]

thanks a lot Surfcaster! :D

ashjn:

thanks to you too. The settings are: (in clock possition Reference)

Gain: 1.5 (almost 2 o clock)
Treble: 12.5
Mid: 10.5
Bass: 11:00
Reverb: 8.5
Master: 8:5 (I recorded the clip at a VERY VERY low volume since it was night and i live in an Apartment. But keep in mind that i have Hal's Serial Loop Mod)

i'l record some more F-50 clips later.

Nice tone! Contour...yes/no? Thanks!

[Joeytpg]

oh, of course! Contour ON :D

[Lt_Core]

oh, of course! Contour ON :D

Of course! Silly me....LOL :thu:

[Torh]

Anywhere to go skiing around you?

Uhm, well, for alpine skiing centers, I need to drive by car for an hour or so.. We have tracks for cross country skiing just outside my door that can be followed 40 km or so into the woods, if it was that you had in mind.

[Joeytpg]

Ok guys couple more videos.

This is testing the Lead capabilities:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3OIcd6DB0Gk

[Joeytpg]

The other one.

This is Trying some Hard Rock setting, not metal.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XKXkGaNvwUg

[Goldwing]

Great tone, congratulations. Settings for the Hard Rock clip? :D

[ashjn]

Definitily into the tones you are getting. These are all at apartment volumeS?

[Lt_Core]

Can the F-50 be made to run in stereo? Maybe through a G-Major, G-Minor or G-Sharp?

Our sound company would like me to run in stereo. With our band going down to one guitarist he said it would be a great way to pump up the sound. Any ideas? Thanks!

[Dann'sTheMan]

The other one.

This is Trying some Hard Rock setting, not metal.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XKXkGaNvwUg

Digging your tones and your playing Joeytpg! :thu:

...especially the Hard Rock one. Please do share the settings. :)

Big smiles,

Andy.

[Dann'sTheMan]

Can the F-50 be made to run in stereo? Maybe through a G-Major, G-Minor or G-Sharp?

Our sound company would like me to run in stereo. With our band going down to one guitarist he said it would be a great way to pump up the sound. Any ideas? Thanks!

Hi Lt_Core,

A stereo FX processor like the G-Major/Sharp/Force would do it's bit to turn a mono signal like a guitar tone, into a twin stereo signal. The challenge is getting the new stereo signal in a form to drive two speakers/cabs. The G-Major and the ilk wilk output at line level. Each side of the stereo signal must then be put through a power amp to get it up to speaker level - ready to drive those two cabs.

Your F-50 of course already has a power amp, so you could feed one side into the FX Return, and drive the combo's speaker. The other side needs to go into another power amp - be it another amp's FX return, a rack power amp, or even a Crate Powerblock. If you decide to go for a rack power amp, then it will likely already be stereo (two channels). This gives you the interesting option of running a wet/dry/wet rig, with the left and right effected ("wet") outputs from the FX processor going through the rack power amp, and F-50's combo left uneffected ("dry"), :cool:

Big smiles,

Andy.

[Joeytpg]

hey guys thanks a lot for the comments! Andy thanks a lot buddy! :D

The Hard Rock Settings are this:

Gain: 12:30
Treble: 11:50
Mids: 12:00
Bass 11:00
Reverb: 9:00

The Lead tones:

Gain: 2:00
Treble: 12:50
Mid: 11:50
Bass: 11:00
Reverb: 3:00

I'm not much of a Lead player, my lead capabilities are limited honestly....i can do a few things here and there, but i'm FAR from being a Shredder! i LOVE Rythm!! :D
:D

[Joeytpg]

Definitily into the tones you are getting. These are all at apartment volumeS?

yeah buddy..... could you imagine how it would sound if it was Cranked :evil: :D

[fastlevrai]

Hi everybody,

I'm new here :wave: and i don't speak english very often, so sorry if you can't understand everything i say.

But like some of you, i've got the F-50, which is great. But i've got some "problems" with it.

First when i play some notes, i can hear a very little "zzzzzzzzzzzzzz" in the amp, like something's "trembling" you know, and i finally find out that it was the two first lamps. Because when i hold them, the noise almost disapears...
The salesman told me there were no reason to worry about that, but i don't know, it's kind of disturbing because i know the lamps are fragile, so...

Then my second "problem" (which isn't really a problem) is that, in spite of the time i spent "adjusting" the amp, the clean is ok, so beautiful, i couldn't get a better one, BUT the second channel is still so "charged with middles". I usually play funk (clean), funk rock (in this case i put a BOSS DS-1 to get nearly the same sound as Dave Navarro on One Hot Minute for example) and blues (i play on the second channel).

BUT i just can't get, with this second channel, a sound between "lot of mediums" (amp's second channel) and "not so many mediums" (DS-1 inside).

And ok that doesn't astonish me that much and i love this sound and i know some famous guitarists play(ed) with this kind of sound (Santana and even Hendrix) but i heard some samples here, with only the guit plugged in the amp, with very very little middles!

I play on strat US "tunned" with a Duncan hotrail (so +- like you joey, for the configuration --> HSS).

What do you think of my problems? Is there, in your opinion, any problem with the lamps?

And just my curiosity, where's your master pot when you're playing, not live, but with friends, for the clean channel for example?
For me it's on 9:00 with the gain on 13:00 and it's ROAAAAARRRING :eek:

Whatever, sorry for my poor english, hope 'you understand, and thank you!

Peace :D

[fxschx]

Hi everybody,

I'm new here :wave: and i don't speak english very often, so sorry if you can't understand everything i say.

But like some of you, i've got the F-50, which is great. But i've got some "problems" with it.

First when i play some notes, i can hear a very little "zzzzzzzzzzzzzz" in the amp, like something's "trembling" you know, and i finally find out that it was the two first lamps. Because when i hold them, the noise almost disapears...
The salesman told me there were no reason to worry about that, but i don't know, it's kind of disturbing because i know the lamps are fragile, so...

Then my second "problem" (which isn't really a problem) is that, in spite of the time i spent "adjusting" the amp, the clean is ok, so beautiful, i couldn't get a better one, BUT the second channel is still so "charged with middles". I usually play funk (clean), funk rock (in this case i put a BOSS DS-1 to get nearly the same sound as Dave Navarro on One Hot Minute for example) and blues (i play on the second channel).

BUT i just can't get, with this second channel, a sound between "lot of mediums" (amp's second channel) and "not so many mediums" (DS-1 inside).

And ok that doesn't astonish me that much and i love this sound and i know some famous guitarists play(ed) with this kind of sound (Santana and even Hendrix) but i heard some samples here, with only the guit plugged in the amp, with very very little middles!

I play on strat US "tunned" with a Duncan hotrail (so +- like you joey, for the configuration --> HSS).

What do you think of my problems? Is there, in your opinion, any problem with the lamps?

And just my curiosity, where's your master pot when you're playing, not live, but with friends, for the clean channel for example?
For me it's on 9:00 with the gain on 13:00 and it's ROAAAAARRRING :eek:

Whatever, sorry for my poor english, hope 'you understand, and thank you!

Peace :D

My F-30 has a modification from Tonehunter in Germany. You can hear my amp on www.tonehunter.de
I like the new sound on the lead channel, it is like i wanted it.

[fastlevrai]

Hey thanx :) yeah, sounds great but i wouldn't say "better" for the clean samples, but yeah maybe better, less compressed for the lead channel.

But i'm sure we can get this kind of sound only by settling the amp in a certain way... but yes the problem its the compression, which is very very pronounced.

But thank you guy :-)

[shredbadtone]

Can the F-50 do Petrucci type leads? Stuff like under a glass moon.


I am looking at buying a combo and was actually shopping around for an f-50 and thats what i am looking for as far as tones, nothing really 'heavy' just really smooth and articulate as far as picking goes. From a lot of the clips it sounds like more of a hard rock/great cleans type of amp.

[jpoprock]

Hey Guys. The last time I posted was on page 106 of this thread. I had a dilemma with the F100 vs. this new Marshall I purchased. I just wanted to follow up and say that ultimately, I sold the F100. Took both heads out on a gig with me and A/B'd them. For my ears, there was no comparison. The F100 sounded just awful to me. The distortion was just waaaay to harsh and brutal. The Marshall was just way more alive and vibrant.

The F-100 sounded like a Rat pedal thru a power amp. It was just unusable. My other guitar player agreed that it was perhaps the worst tone he's ever heard. Especially for all the hype and money the head cost me. I ended up selling the head on Ebay and broke even.

The thing is, that amp is probably fine for certain kinds of things. Just not "my" thing. Plus, with amps and tone, it's SO SO SO SO SO subjective that it's not even funny. You can read reviews all day long, but until you play thru it, you'll never know. And really, the only TRUE test is taking it out live and playing it with your band. There is a HUGE diff between music store tone, bedroom tone, and live on stage tone. The room can change your sound dramatically.

Plus, everyone is a freaking expert too. And they are probably right, in their own minds. But still... how many guys have your heard go on and on about their tone, their rig's, etc.. only to be completely PUTRID.

Case in point: http://www.myspace.com/jimmymcdude

Reading that guy's bio, one would assume he had somewhat of a clue. See for yourself. Is it guys like this who's advise I'm taking?? HA! Just kidding.

Anyway, I'm happy with the Marshall 6100LM. I do have but ONE issue with it, and that it's not really heavy on the low end. I'm not looking for Slipknot or anything, but the amp is kinda bright. And if I dial out the high's and presence, then the amp becomes a bit too flat. And the farther away you stand from it, the worse it sounds. My other guitar player/singer had the luxery of it being pointed at him the other night, and said that at times it sounded like "white noise". I laffed. It's not true really. We had an old band member in the crowd, and we made him get on stage and jam. I went out front to hear the mix, and specifically listened to my amp in the mix. I thought it sounded great. It sounded nothing like I thought it would. It sounded full, rich, and detailed. I was very pleased.

So, my point is, *I* think I know what I'm doing, and what I want, and what sounds good to ME and what doesn't. I play really nice guitars that are always set up and maintained by a professional luthier, I have really nice pedals, I'm picky about my pickups, signal chain, etc. I've a semi-pro musician who plays every single weekend. My other guitar player in the band is no exception, and is even more road tested.

I tried out the Dual Recto at GC once, and thought it sounded great. But it was a bit too modern for what I need to use it for. But I did like it. I also heard a Carvin V3 that this guy had at his house, and was severely impressed. So impressed that I'm going to try and talk him into letting me take it out for a weekend. It was very Recto sounding, but with a bit more Marshall in it.

I guess to be honest, the tone I want I can't afford. HA!! I'd love to have a Soldano SLO100 or something like that. But I can "make due" with what I have now. HA!

Thanks guys for all the help and advice! My GAS is not overwith, and I could very easily end up in a Mesa again one day, just not anything from the F Series. And keep in mind, I tried and tried, and tweaked and tested, read advice, etc.. I tried everything. The bottom line is, that amp produced a sound that I did not want. It was a great amp, but just not for ME.

Thanks!
Jason

[Joeytpg]

Hey Guys. The last time I posted was on page 106 of this thread. I had a dilemma with the F100 vs. this new Marshall I purchased. I just wanted to follow up and say that ultimately, I sold the F100. Took both heads out on a gig with me and A/B'd them. For my ears, there was no comparison. The F100 sounded just awful to me. The distortion was just waaaay to harsh and brutal. The Marshall was just way more alive and vibrant.

The F-100 sounded like a Rat pedal thru a power amp. It was just unusable. My other guitar player agreed that it was perhaps the worst tone he's ever heard. Especially for all the hype and money the head cost me. I ended up selling the head on Ebay and broke even.

The thing is, that amp is probably fine for certain kinds of things. Just not "my" thing. Plus, with amps and tone, it's SO SO SO SO SO subjective that it's not even funny. You can read reviews all day long, but until you play thru it, you'll never know. And really, the only TRUE test is taking it out live and playing it with your band. There is a HUGE diff between music store tone, bedroom tone, and live on stage tone. The room can change your sound dramatically.

Plus, everyone is a freaking expert too. And they are probably right, in their own minds. But still... how many guys have your heard go on and on about their tone, their rig's, etc.. only to be completely PUTRID.

Case in point: http://www.myspace.com/jimmymcdude

Reading that guy's bio, one would assume he had somewhat of a clue. See for yourself. Is it guys like this who's advise I'm taking?? HA! Just kidding.

Anyway, I'm happy with the Marshall 6100LM. I do have but ONE issue with it, and that it's not really heavy on the low end. I'm not looking for Slipknot or anything, but the amp is kinda bright. And if I dial out the high's and presence, then the amp becomes a bit too flat. And the farther away you stand from it, the worse it sounds. My other guitar player/singer had the luxery of it being pointed at him the other night, and said that at times it sounded like "white noise". I laffed. It's not true really. We had an old band member in the crowd, and we made him get on stage and jam. I went out front to hear the mix, and specifically listened to my amp in the mix. I thought it sounded great. It sounded nothing like I thought it would. It sounded full, rich, and detailed. I was very pleased.

So, my point is, *I* think I know what I'm doing, and what I want, and what sounds good to ME and what doesn't. I play really nice guitars that are always set up and maintained by a professional luthier, I have really nice pedals, I'm picky about my pickups, signal chain, etc. I've a semi-pro musician who plays every single weekend. My other guitar player in the band is no exception, and is even more road tested.

I tried out the Dual Recto at GC once, and thought it sounded great. But it was a bit too modern for what I need to use it for. But I did like it. I also heard a Carvin V3 that this guy had at his house, and was severely impressed. So impressed that I'm going to try and talk him into letting me take it out for a weekend. It was very Recto sounding, but with a bit more Marshall in it.

I guess to be honest, the tone I want I can't afford. HA!! I'd love to have a Soldano SLO100 or something like that. But I can "make due" with what I have now. HA!

Thanks guys for all the help and advice! My GAS is not overwith, and I could very easily end up in a Mesa again one day, just not anything from the F Series. And keep in mind, I tried and tried, and tweaked and tested, read advice, etc.. I tried everything. The bottom line is, that amp produced a sound that I did not want. It was a great amp, but just not for ME.

Thanks!
Jason


Hey Jason, welcome back!

You don't have to be an F-brother to hang around here :wave:

I'm glad you're happy with your Marshall buddy, if the F-100 wasn't cutting it for you then amen brotha'. Like Andy (Dann'sTheMan) says, you gotta trust your ears man, he for example prefered the F-50 tones to the almighty MArk IV and other amps since Money was no issue. So it doesn't matter WHAT you're using as long as it's making your ears happy. :thu:

[Joeytpg]

Hi everybody,

I'm new here :wave: and i don't speak english very often, so sorry if you can't understand everything i say.

But like some of you, i've got the F-50, which is great. But i've got some "problems" with it.

First when i play some notes, i can hear a very little "zzzzzzzzzzzzzz" in the amp, like something's "trembling" you know, and i finally find out that it was the two first lamps. Because when i hold them, the noise almost disapears...
The salesman told me there were no reason to worry about that, but i don't know, it's kind of disturbing because i know the lamps are fragile, so...

Then my second "problem" (which isn't really a problem) is that, in spite of the time i spent "adjusting" the amp, the clean is ok, so beautiful, i couldn't get a better one, BUT the second channel is still so "charged with middles". I usually play funk (clean), funk rock (in this case i put a BOSS DS-1 to get nearly the same sound as Dave Navarro on One Hot Minute for example) and blues (i play on the second channel).

BUT i just can't get, with this second channel, a sound between "lot of mediums" (amp's second channel) and "not so many mediums" (DS-1 inside).

And ok that doesn't astonish me that much and i love this sound and i know some famous guitarists play(ed) with this kind of sound (Santana and even Hendrix) but i heard some samples here, with only the guit plugged in the amp, with very very little middles!

I play on strat US "tunned" with a Duncan hotrail (so +- like you joey, for the configuration --> HSS).

What do you think of my problems? Is there, in your opinion, any problem with the lamps?

And just my curiosity, where's your master pot when you're playing, not live, but with friends, for the clean channel for example?
For me it's on 9:00 with the gain on 13:00 and it's ROAAAAARRRING :eek:

Whatever, sorry for my poor english, hope 'you understand, and thank you!

Peace :D


Hey buddy, welcome to the Lounge!

You could try and swap the Tubes, sometimes tubes aren't working right. Could you also post your settings so we can see how are you EQing your F-50. Hal, Dann'stheman, Surfcaster, Tommi could help you with the EQing since they know the amp VERY WELL.

MY settings? well i posted them look above. The F-50 is a very dark amp... and it's a VERY versatile amp...it has Cleans to die for (covering Clean/JAzz/Blues/British Rock just in the CLean Channel) and the OD ch.? you can go from almost Clean with a slight overdriven sound to Mean Metal (maybe not MODER NUMETAL and stuff, but PRETTY HEAVY SHIT!)

it's a Very good solid amp. I love it as a Hard Rock amp the most.

[fastlevrai]

Ok thanx Joey (and first thanxxx for the welcome :thu: ) but i haven't got the settings here, i will note them next time.

But i can't understand, what's the matter with the tubes? What about swaping them? And swap them for the little disturbing noise i hear? Or to get a better sound, less compressed and so on?

[jpoprock]

Thanks Joeytpg! I'm always interested in learning about gear and what others are doing. It's fun. Man, I could rep for so many companies for as much as I know. But I'll stick to rockin'!

Thanks guys!
Jason

[Joeytpg]

Hey guys, a few new videos for ya, just experimenting with my F-50 Settings and stuff. I Wish my Epiphone Les Paul Special II was here with me, it's got a Dimarzio Super Distortion which i know would bring another dif. sound to the F-50 since it's a Passive Pickup and stuff.

This is a more 80's metal type of tone, i really dig this tone, it's cool.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=WeQjPCHaGVc

BRutal GAIN!

http://youtube.com/watch?v=4NiV5ZZlOj8

D-tuned:

http://youtube.com/watch?v=IPW7PID81uI

[Torh]

Cool clips Joeytpg! You get nice tones for your style out of that F-50.

[Joeytpg]

thanks Torh! i really like 80' - 90's heavy music tone (Metallica MOP, Black Album, Load, Iced Earth....etc) i'm not much into the Modern MEtal Sound.

But even though i like Metal a Lot, i prefer Hard rock, i like melodies, i hate screams (Death Metal type stuff) i love Pop music also. I started as a Guitarist but i've morphed into a singer over the years...i could never see myself onstage with only the guitar....i could be a singer only and leave guitar to others. But i love guitar, it's my main instrument after my vocal chords.

I'm just a Rythm Player, but i wanna get into more Lead stuff...i'm thinking about getting a Mark Seal Instructional Vid. i really dig his style.

anyways, enough with the BIO :p heheh i'm glad you dig the tones. The F-50 rocks!

[fastlevrai]

Joey, sorry to make a second post, but i don't understand what you mean by
"You could try and swap the Tubes, sometimes tubes aren't working right."

And what about the crazy noise i told you, the little "zzzzzzz" you know, that disapears when i hold the tubes?

Thank you so much;)

[whathappened]

Hello fellows!

So, since I often read in this thread the past two month (and that's how long i'm the owner of a f-50 combo...), I just wanted to be more active in this very friendly and helpful discussion!

I'm from Cologne, Germany... so I wonder if there are any players of the F-Series livin' around here. The first thing I want to know is, what the hell you paid for your f-50 combos? Since I paid 1300 Euro for a brand new one, I think about a few statements here, that you paid only about 800-900 Dollar. Is it used then?

Anyways I really don't think I paid too much for this amp, because it's very versatile... I play a kind of rock style, which is a combination of indie (perhaps like the cleaner at the drive-in parts or trail of dead), pop (I have to get more into my H2O chorus channel) and some harder parts. I'm going to post some live material in future where you can see the F-50 in action, if anyone's interested...

If any of you telecaster (bridge pu with a little less on volume and treble knob) players like the trail of dead kind of sound, here's what I dialed the amp:
gain 3pm
treble 1pm
mid 10:30 am
bass 12:30
reverb depends, sometimes at 11...
master 11



In my opinion the clean channel is almost perfect! Never heard such a clear tone which has that lot of headroom. it has so much pressure without being too harsh... lovely... only the clean channel is in comparison worth the money. And if you crank it till it overdrives..... no words about that!

I'm not always glad with channel two... but I have to say that I didn't play much around with it. The F-50 now lives in my rehearsal room, so I can only date it 2 or 3 times a week... but at the moment there's carneval at cologne and everybody is really drunken and work starts again at wednesday I should have some time for some channel 2 tryouts.

At the moment I use distortion channel for highgain only, the bluesier tones come from a MEK Tubedrive TD-2... which is a hot advice to test! It costs about 150 and is even more versatile than a fulldrive. Even if you just want a perfect tubescreamer tone its worth the money.

One last question: can any of you tele players tell me how to config the f-50, if a want a incubus-foo fighters-soundalike sound from channel 2? At the moment I had better results with a cranked clean...

Enough from me, ;)

greetings to all,

roygbiv

[RyGy]

Joey, sorry to make a second post, but i don't understand what you mean by
"You could try and swap the Tubes, sometimes tubes aren't working right."

And what about the crazy noise i told you, the little "zzzzzzz" you know, that disapears when i hold the tubes?

Thank you so much;)

The tubes that make the noize that goes away when you hold them. Are they close to one of the transformers?? If so move them away from the transformer, or swap them out with different tubes. There could be something mechanically loose in the tube. The transformer's magnetic field could be causing the tube to vibrate.

[Joeytpg]

Hello fellows!

So, since I often read in this thread the past two month (and that's how long i'm the owner of a f-50 combo...), I just wanted to be more active in this very friendly and helpful discussion!

I'm from Cologne, Germany... so I wonder if there are any players of the F-Series livin' around here. The first thing I want to know is, what the hell you paid for your f-50 combos? Since I paid 1300 Euro for a brand new one, I think about a few statements here, that you paid only about 800-900 Dollar. Is it used then?

Anyways I really don't think I paid too much for this amp, because it's very versatile... I play a kind of rock style, which is a combination of indie (perhaps like the cleaner at the drive-in parts or trail of dead), pop (I have to get more into my H2O chorus channel) and some harder parts. I'm going to post some live material in future where you can see the F-50 in action, if anyone's interested...

If any of you telecaster (bridge pu with a little less on volume and treble knob) players like the trail of dead kind of sound, here's what I dialed the amp:
gain 3pm
treble 1pm
mid 10:30 am
bass 12:30
reverb depends, sometimes at 11...
master 11



In my opinion the clean channel is almost perfect! Never heard such a clear tone which has that lot of headroom. it has so much pressure without being too harsh... lovely... only the clean channel is in comparison worth the money. And if you crank it till it overdrives..... no words about that!

I'm not always glad with channel two... but I have to say that I didn't play much around with it. The F-50 now lives in my rehearsal room, so I can only date it 2 or 3 times a week... but at the moment there's carneval at cologne and everybody is really drunken and work starts again at wednesday I should have some time for some channel 2 tryouts.

At the moment I use distortion channel for highgain only, the bluesier tones come from a MEK Tubedrive TD-2... which is a hot advice to test! It costs about 150 and is even more versatile than a fulldrive. Even if you just want a perfect tubescreamer tone its worth the money.

One last question: can any of you tele players tell me how to config the f-50, if a want a incubus-foo fighters-soundalike sound from channel 2? At the moment I had better results with a cranked clean...

Enough from me, ;)

greetings to all,

roygbiv


Hey buddy sup...welcome again. Of course we wanna see you perform, post your clips/vids it'll be sweet :love:

anyways...if you want a Foo Fighters Incubus sound i pretty much get it with this settings:

Chn. 2 w/Contour ON
Gain: (Between 10:00 and 11:30)
Treble: 11:00
Mids: 12:30
Bass: 11:30
Reverb: 9:30

I own a Fender with EMG's so maybe my pick ups help with the gain/Mids you could try playing with a bit more Mids than i posted.

i'll make a little video playing some "rock/punk/alternative" tones :wave:

[fastlevrai]

The tubes that make the noize that goes away when you hold them. Are they close to one of the transformers?? If so move them away from the transformer, or swap them out with different tubes. There could be something mechanically loose in the tube. The transformer's magnetic field could be causing the tube to vibrate.

Okay thanx ;-) But so i see this is only a disturbing noise, but it's not quite "dangerous" for the tubes.

EDIT : i'm not sure you got my problem, because they actually don't make that noise when i don't play you know. It's only when i play. So ;-)

My settings now :)

Clean Channel :

Gain : 1.30 (which is '13.30' in belgium)
Treble : 12.30
Middle : 11.00
Bass : 12.30
Master 9.00

Lead Channel :

Gain : 10h30
Treble : 2.30
Middle : 10.00
Bass : 3.00
Master : 9.00

Clean is ok and this is an example of my settings now for the lead channel, but i'd like to get a crunchy (very soft crunch like on castles made of sand by hendrix you know, and sometimes i can get a sound very near from it but too compressed though...)

Thak you guys !

[SeasonOfPain]

Hi folks! I recently started a thread (http://forum.grailtone.com/viewtopic.php?t=10391) on the BoogieBoard (apologies to those who frequent both forums) comparing a clip recorded with the F-50 and the same clip recorded by my POD-XT. The general consensus seems to be that while the F-50 sounds more natural, the POD seems to sit better in the mix.
I really do prefer the "feel" of the F-50, so I thought I'd go to the experts for pointers or advice. :)

Here's the initial recording with my Pod, using a tweaked Big Bottom patch:

Take 1 with POD (http://www.soundclick.com/bands/songInfo.cfm?bandID=359240&songID=4747806)

Here's the same part I just re-tracked with my Mesa F-50:

Take 2 with F-50 (http://www.soundclick.com/bands/songInfo.cfm?bandID=359240&songID=5013599)

Recording chain for the F-50 clip was: Axis Sport -> F-50 -> Mesa Recto 2x12 -> Audix i5 -> MetricHalo ULN-2 -> MBox -> ProTools LE. The mic was placed on-axis, about an inch or so out from the dust cap and about an inch away from the grille.

Both takes are quad-tracked with my EBMM Axis Sport. Drums are EZDrummer-DFH (bear with the simplicity / repetitiveness, they're really placeholders for future variation on the drums & guitar).

Ideas on mic placement, mixing tips, etc. would be welcome.

[RyGy]

Okay thanx ;-) But so i see this is only a disturbing noise, but it's not quite "dangerous" for the tubes.

EDIT : i'm not sure you got my problem, because they actually don't make that noise when i don't play you know. It's only when i play. So ;-)

My settings now :)

Clean Channel :

Gain : 1.30 (which is '13.30' in belgium)
Treble : 12.30
Middle : 11.00
Bass : 12.30
Master 9.00

Lead Channel :

Gain : 10h30
Treble : 2.30
Middle : 10.00
Bass : 3.00
Master : 9.00

Clean is ok and this is an example of my settings now for the lead channel, but i'd like to get a crunchy (very soft crunch like on castles made of sand by hendrix you know, and sometimes i can get a sound very near from it but too compressed though...)

Thak you guys !

I still think that you might have a pre amp tube with something mechanically wrong with it. One way to test for this is turn your amp on the distortion channel without a guitar pluged in. use something sort of soft like an eraser on the end of a pencil to tap each of the pre amp tubes, and listen for noise coming out of the speaker. You might need to have the master set at about 10:00 to hear any noise. In general the tubes closest to the input jack will have the most noise, but if there is one that is louder after it you might have found a tube with the problem. You will want to try this both on the clean channel, and on the distortion channel. It also doesn't hurt to tap your power tubes they can also get mechanical problems. Hopefully this will help. Combo amps are hard on the tubes since they get the direct vibration from the speaker. It is fairly common to have something come loose in a tube.

Good luck with finding the bad tube :thu:

[Joeytpg]

Yet ANOTHER Vid.... this is a more Rock/Alternative Tone

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n6o0mD3lt-0

[Polaris20]

Hey everyone! I just won an auction for an F-50 combo off of Ebay, and it'll be here next week. My question is this:

How does the F-50 respond to pedals (such as chorus, flange, delay) in the loop? I know with the Express they recommend rackmount stuff due to the levels, but I tend to prefer pedals.

[Rodimus Prime]

hey polaris, congrats on your new amp.
i find that i use some pedals straight in and some sound better through the fx loop. so, there isn't a hard and fastened rule about this thing so let your ear be the guide. there are some advantages in using the fx loop like having the level knob in the back acting as a master volume so i would suggest using it for some pedals.
have fun.

[Polaris20]

hey polaris, congrats on your new amp.
i find that i use some pedals straight in and some sound better through the fx loop. so, there isn't a hard and fastened rule about this thing so let your ear be the guide. there are some advantages in using the fx loop like having the level knob in the back acting as a master volume so i would suggest using it for some pedals.
have fun.

Cool, I'll have to try it. I've got an Echo Park right now, along with a Boss chorus, but I think if the pedals work well in the loop I might get the MM4 to replace the Boss.

[breakingstring]

Hi guys. I've made a clip using my F-50 combo, boosted with a Bad Monkey. I also used a Danelectro Fish N' Chips in the loop (still tweaking it). It's miced with a Samson CO1U microphone, since it's the only one I have. The two main guitars are single tracked with brief moments of a third appearing.

You can download it here if you're interested:

http://download.yousendit.com/1567F9BF78CBDDF5

(Excuse my playing, etc, I also have never done a miced recording in my life! )

[Tommi Inkila]

Can the F-50 do Petrucci type leads? Stuff like under a glass moon.


I am looking at buying a combo and was actually shopping around for an f-50 and thats what i am looking for as far as tones, nothing really 'heavy' just really smooth and articulate as far as picking goes. From a lot of the clips it sounds like more of a hard rock/great cleans type of amp.
Hi there,

I think that it goes pretty easily into that territory. Check out my clips and my work with Scenery Channel.

Petrucci has used almost every Mesa amp. I personally think that his trademark leads comes from rectos and marks depending on the album... and F-series happens to be there in between :thu:

[Tommi Inkila]

STUDIO REPORT:

I'm nearly finished the mixes for these new SC gems. Expect some heavy F-moments and gentle ballad.

Sorry for not participating so much lately... got to get these songs done :eek:

[NiCkMiLnE]

nice to see you back tommi, hows it goin mate.

[Tommi Inkila]

nice to see you back tommi, hows it goin mate.
Really good... thanks for asking :)

I've been happy with the songs and mixes for many days in a row, so that have to be something spectacular :D

[whathappened]

Hi folks! I recently started a thread (http://forum.grailtone.com/viewtopic.php?t=10391) on the BoogieBoard (apologies to those who frequent both forums) comparing a clip recorded with the F-50 and the same clip recorded by my POD-XT. The general consensus seems to be that while the F-50 sounds more natural, the POD seems to sit better in the mix.
I really do prefer the "feel" of the F-50, so I thought I'd go to the experts for pointers or advice. :)

Here's the initial recording with my Pod, using a tweaked Big Bottom patch:

Take 1 with POD (http://www.soundclick.com/bands/songInfo.cfm?bandID=359240&songID=4747806)

Here's the same part I just re-tracked with my Mesa F-50:

Take 2 with F-50 (http://www.soundclick.com/bands/songInfo.cfm?bandID=359240&songID=5013599)

Recording chain for the F-50 clip was: Axis Sport -> F-50 -> Mesa Recto 2x12 -> Audix i5 -> MetricHalo ULN-2 -> MBox -> ProTools LE. The mic was placed on-axis, about an inch or so out from the dust cap and about an inch away from the grille.

Both takes are quad-tracked with my EBMM Axis Sport. Drums are EZDrummer-DFH (bear with the simplicity / repetitiveness, they're really placeholders for future variation on the drums & guitar).

Ideas on mic placement, mixing tips, etc. would be welcome.

Ok, the first impression is, that the pod sounds bigger here... but i think if you try to double the f-50 (eg with another f-50 eq deeper) you've got a much better result, because - like you said - the amp sounds more natural.


@ Joeytpg:

Thank you for the advice! I'll try your settings monday or tuesday...
Also thanks for the vid, is it recorded with the setting you posted? although these riffs are not what I expected... ;) next month our rehearsals are going to be structured again, then I can record the f-50.

[fastlevrai]

I still think that you might have a pre amp tube with something mechanically wrong with it. One way to test for this is turn your amp on the distortion channel without a guitar pluged in. use something sort of soft like an eraser on the end of a pencil to tap each of the pre amp tubes, and listen for noise coming out of the speaker. You might need to have the master set at about 10:00 to hear any noise. In general the tubes closest to the input jack will have the most noise, but if there is one that is louder after it you might have found a tube with the problem. You will want to try this both on the clean channel, and on the distortion channel. It also doesn't hurt to tap your power tubes they can also get mechanical problems. Hopefully this will help. Combo amps are hard on the tubes since they get the direct vibration from the speaker. It is fairly common to have something come loose in a tube.

Good luck with finding the bad tube :thu:



Thank you for your attention :-)

I tried this way and the tubes make a little "zz" noise, but nothing coming out of the speaker you know, it's just like there's something the tubes which is not "stable" if you know what i mean. Ican't understand and i can't make any sample, well i tried but you wouldn't hear anything clearly.

I'll go in my shop tomorrow for a "check up".

Thank you so much anyway, and by the way, don't you know how to get a crunchy sound (* like Hendrix on Castles made of sand) with the lead channel?
Or if you know the pages of the topics where some interressant settings are posted... :-)

Yannick

[Polaris20]

Judging by Tommi's clips, you can sure get JP's tones.....the question is, which one!

[NiCkMiLnE]

Really good... thanks for asking :)

I've been happy with the songs and mixes for many days in a row, so that have to be something spectacular :D

fuck you talking bout? your stuff always sounds amazing..smug bastard :wave: :)

[Joeytpg]

@ Joeytpg:

Thank you for the advice! I'll try your settings monday or tuesday...
Also thanks for the vid, is it recorded with the setting you posted? although these riffs are not what I expected... ;) next month our rehearsals are going to be structured again, then I can record the f-50.



What type of Riff would you like to hear? :)

[fastlevrai]

Well now i know exactly where the noise comes from lol

The two power lamps make this noise. It's a noise i can hear when i tap on the top of the amp you know, and if i hold the tubes softly, nothing !

Do some of you have this "problem" too, so?

Mesa + PRS, thank you again, and i found this out by tapping on them, so thank you !!

JOEY, do you know the lead channel's settings for a crunchy sound like Hendrix did on Bold as Love, Castles made of sand, and so on?

Thanx guys

[Tommi Inkila]

fuck you talking bout? your stuff always sounds amazing..smug bastard :wave: :)
Heh :D

Thanks man! I guess I'm meaning that you are always so critical towards your own stuff, on premiere I was like this sucks every other day... and this time I've been happy almost all the time :lol:

[Joeytpg]

Well now i know exactly where the noise comes from lol

The two power lamps make this noise. It's a noise i can hear when i tap on the top of the amp you know, and if i hold the tubes softly, nothing !

Do some of you have this "problem" too, so?

Mesa + PRS, thank you again, and i found this out by tapping on them, so thank you !!

JOEY, do you know the lead channel's settings for a crunchy sound like Hendrix did on Bold as Love, Castles made of sand, and so on?

Thanx guys

i could try dialing out those settings for ya buddy.....but Andy (Dann'sTheMan) is your man! he should give them to you...that guy has some AWASOME Rock/bluesy LEad settings! :thu:

Andy...hook the brother up!

[fastlevrai]

Hey thanks guy you're nice, i'm going to contact him :thu:

[stevew14]

Well now i know exactly where the noise comes from lol

The two power lamps make this noise. It's a noise i can hear when i tap on the top of the amp you know, and if i hold the tubes softly, nothing !

Do some of you have this "problem" too, so?

Mesa + PRS, thank you again, and i found this out by tapping on them, so thank you !!

JOEY, do you know the lead channel's settings for a crunchy sound like Hendrix did on Bold as Love, Castles made of sand, and so on?

Thanx guys
I had/have the same problem with my F30. It drove me crazy for the longest time! Mesa sent me a new set of power tubes. One of them rattled as well. I finally bought a pair of JJs from Eurotubes and one of them rattled as well. Only certain notes would cause the rattle and I was finally told by Mesa and Eurotubes that it is very common for combo amps to do this and it is pretty much the nature of the beast. Since then, I have gotten used to it, and have found that so many other things in my room rattle, that I often can't tell what is rattling, and I just keep on and enjoy the hell out of the tones I can get. I guess that's why a lot of people prefer the head/ cabinet setup.

I hope this eases your concern a bit. I doubt that it is anything anyone would hear in a jam or gig situation, but it can certainly drive you nuts at lower volume levels, and once you hear it it's hard to ignore.

[Polaris20]

Has anyone tried the full retube sets from JJ, specifically the High Gain kit for the F series?

[fastlevrai]

I had/have the same problem with my F30. It drove me crazy for the longest time! Mesa sent me a new set of power tubes. One of them rattled as well. I finally bought a pair of JJs from Eurotubes and one of them rattled as well. Only certain notes would cause the rattle and I was finally told by Mesa and Eurotubes that it is very common for combo amps to do this and it is pretty much the nature of the beast. Since then, I have gotten used to it, and have found that so many other things in my room rattle, that I often can't tell what is rattling, and I just keep on and enjoy the hell out of the tones I can get. I guess that's why a lot of people prefer the head/ cabinet setup.

I hope this eases your concern a bit. I doubt that it is anything anyone would hear in a jam or gig situation, but it can certainly drive you nuts at lower volume levels, and once you hear it it's hard to ignore.

Thank you man, now i'm totally "confident". It's anoying yes, but if it's quite normal, in the end i don't mind anymore :-) But i can say i was very worried about it.

Well, thanx SO MUCH ! People here are nice and if i can help anyone, tell me know yor problems.

I'm waiting for Dann's settings and in a few months, when i'll know the beast well, i'll post my better settings.

[postmanpat]

hey guys

today, i played drum roll.....the F50 combo.....good lord it was beautiful, the quest for a decent amp has taken me to many places. For quite a while i was going to get an F50 but couldn't find one to try out, then i thought hmm the JSX combo is just a little more,

so i played that but i thought that it had alot of options i didn't need and didn't want to pay for, also i wasn't a huge fan of the clean channel, whenever i'm writing no matter what style, i play clean, as well as practicing....
because i use the clean channel alot, it has to be good,

then i heard about the new express line, and thought that it would be great having so many different options, so i settled on an express 5:50 2x12 combo...that was until i played the mighty F-50!

The F50 simply blew me away, i couldn't believe i was getting this huge sound from a tiny combo (i say tiny because it was surrounded by a ace 2x12 and a roadking 2x12), all i need as a great 3D clean and a thick rock tone, and the F50 can do that in spades,

the only thing is i'm still considering a the 5:50 simply because i haven't played it yet, i won't be purchasing a new amp till the end of next month (28 days and counting down), so i decided to keep my mind and ears open and wait until i can play through an express,

although deep down the express has alot of things i don't need, and i just don't think it will have a thick distortion channel that tops the F50,

well that's it for now, unfortunitly my money doesn't come in for 28days so i can't even put down a deposit, so fingers crossed no one sees it, the music shop guy, put it way in the back corner almost behind some 4x12's :D

i hope to be apart of this lounge very shortly,

all the best,

pat

[Adam Poland]

Has anyone tried the full retube sets from JJ, specifically the High Gain kit for the F series?

Yep. I have. Took them right out after listening to different recordings of my amp before and after. The stock tubes sound much better and lately I've been using two Tungsols in V1 and V2 and two 9th Gen Shugangs in V3 and V4. Sounds like a whole different amp. Sounds much better than that stupid JJ high gain kit. It's like pure mud and high gain put together. Terrible.

[Polaris20]

Yep. I have. Took them right out after listening to different recordings of my amp before and after. The stock tubes sound much better and lately I've been using two Tungsols in V1 and V2 and two 9th Gen Shugangs in V3 and V4. Sounds like a whole different amp. Sounds much better than that stupid JJ high gain kit. It's like pure mud and high gain put together. Terrible.


Wow, okay thanks. I just know that they are usually recommended for Peaveys (my outgoing amp) but I never heard about them in Mesas. good to know! I'll just stick with Mesas then.

[Lt_Core]

I have the regular retube kit from Eurotubes, not the high-gain kit. I love it. Tame the brightness of the F-50 a little bit, at least for what I need it to do.

[Lt_Core]

Played a gig this weekend about two hours away, first time at this club. A local band stopped by to check us out and their guitarist couldn't believe the tone I was getting out of "that little Mesa amp". He was astounded by the clarity, punch, etc. Made me feel good.

I am not an expert when it comes to this stuff. I've only had a tube amp for 8 months now, previously a Line 6 PODxt guy. Taking the advice posted on this thread has helped me jump light years ahead of where I would be if I had to figure it out on my own.

By the way, my Avatar 212 with Hellatones 60L's should be arriving next week :) Can't wait to hear the F-50 through a closed-back cab!

[Torh]

I am on the look out for a boost pedal that can increase the volume a bit for lead playing for my Mesa F-50.. I see the Keeley Katana boost looks very promising, and I like that you can pull the volume knob out to add a little gain to the signal too... However, I have a friend who speaks warmly of the Carl Martin Hydraboost. This unit doesn't have the possibility for the slight overdrive that the Katana has.. Any thoughts on this?

[Lt_Core]

I am on the look out for a boost pedal that can increase the volume a bit for lead playing for my Mesa F-50.. I see the Keeley Katana boost looks very promising, and I like that you can pull the volume knob out to add a little gain to the signal too... However, I have a friend who speaks warmly of the Carl Martin Hydraboost. This unit doesn't have the possibility for the slight overdrive that the Katana has.. Any thoughts on this?

I've heard good things about the Katana boost but have never tried one.

Currently I'm using an Xotic AC Booster for solos. Allows me to add a clean boost or a boost with gain. Also has treble and bass controls. Very nice pedal! There was a great deal on it over at The Gear Page. Couldn't resist ;)

Check it out: http://tinyurl.com/2shab4

[Torh]

Hm, thanks for the heads up. Do you use it as a boost with gain often? If so, at what occasions do you use it then?

[Tommi Inkila]

Has anyone tried the full retube sets from JJ, specifically the High Gain kit for the F series?
I haven't used the high gain kit, but the normal JJs... I think they compliment the amp well and find them better than the stocks. Well, this is of course very subjective. What I've heard those high gain's are more easily distorting 12ax7s so that's why they probably don't work the F-series as it has already quite much gain in its preamp.

I'd suggest to buy one normal JJ 12ax7 and try it on V1 and see if it makes a difference.

[jcoggins7]

Dude Lt. Core let me know how that cab sounds. I've been wanting to get one of those and have had trouble deciding between that and a Recto cab (it's hard to beat the look of those Recto cabs, and they're industry standards...the only reason I would get the Avatar is for the Hellatone 60Ls).

As for the boost question...you could get a normal boutique boost, or you could get Hal9000's Stealth Boost. Like 3 of us have it here, and we all love it. Passive, true bypass, ultra transparent, easy to use.

[bnelly428]

There are 4 pre-amp and power tubes in the f-100. 2 of the 4 preamp tubes are used for the effects loop, can/should i just retube the amps for the actual channels?

also what kind (moderately priced) tubes do you guys use if not the mesa ones?

I'd really hate to spend $150 on new tubes if i were to retube the whole thing...

[Lt_Core]

Dude Lt. Core let me know how that cab sounds. I've been wanting to get one of those and have had trouble deciding between that and a Recto cab (it's hard to beat the look of those Recto cabs, and they're industry standards...the only reason I would get the Avatar is for the Hellatone 60Ls).

Sounds good. I actually bought it in the Amps spam thread. $335 shipped, Avatar Vintage cab (not the traditional) with 60L's. Great deal! Can't wait to fire it up.

[fastlevrai]

Hi guys,

Do someone have news of Dann's the man?

I sent a mp to him but no answer yet, and he didn't make a post for 5 days.

I heard his samples, which, good god, rock !

I'm just impatient to get settings from the guy :eek:

Thanks !

[Polaris20]

Dude Lt. Core let me know how that cab sounds. I've been wanting to get one of those and have had trouble deciding between that and a Recto cab (it's hard to beat the look of those Recto cabs, and they're industry standards...the only reason I would get the Avatar is for the Hellatone 60Ls).

As for the boost question...you could get a normal boutique boost, or you could get Hal9000's Stealth Boost. Like 3 of us have it here, and we all love it. Passive, true bypass, ultra transparent, easy to use.

Hey dude, I see you're using the Echo Park, which I also have! I've got the F-50 combo on the way. How's that Echo doing in the loop? Do you have any issues with levels or anything?

I really want to stick with pedals, and eventually get a L6 MM-4 to compliment it.

[jcoggins7]

Originally Posted by Polaris20
Hey dude, I see you're using the Echo Park, which I also have! I've got the F-50 combo on the way. How's that Echo doing in the loop? Do you have any issues with levels or anything?

I really want to stick with pedals, and eventually get a L6 MM-4 to compliment it.

Actually I'm strongly considering pulling it out of the loop now that that Stealth Boost is there. I haven't tried both of them in the loop together, but I know that when you turn the amp's FX loop mix up (which you have to do for the Stealth Boost), and the Echo Park is in the loop, it majorly colors the tone. I mean it's an extremely noticable difference. Before the Stealth Boost, I would just run the pedal with it's mix up all the way and then adjust the amp's FX loop mix so that I wouldn't have as much coloring to the tone. Now I can't do that. So I'm thinking of putting the Echo Park out in front of the amp, especially since I use it mostly for clean sounds, though I haven't quite decided on that. The colored tone isn't horrible, but I'm just a freak about getting a pure tone. Maybe the FX loop is run at different specifications than a regular guitar signal, since it's designed to be used with racks, which might cause the tone suck when I put that pedal in there. Idk. I really like the pedal though.

[Lt_Core]

Actually I'm strongly considering pulling it out of the loop now that that Stealth Boost is there. I haven't tried both of them in the loop together, but I know that when you turn the amp's FX loop mix up (which you have to do for the Stealth Boost), and the Echo Park is in the loop, it majorly colors the tone. I mean it's an extremely noticable difference. Before the Stealth Boost, I would just run the pedal with it's mix up all the way and then adjust the amp's FX loop mix so that I wouldn't have as much coloring to the tone. Now I can't do that. So I'm thinking of putting the Echo Park out in front of the amp, especially since I use it mostly for clean sounds, though I haven't quite decided on that. The colored tone isn't horrible, but I'm just a freak about getting a pure tone. Maybe the FX loop is run at different specifications than a regular guitar signal, since it's designed to be used with racks, which might cause the tone suck when I put that pedal in there. Idk. I really like the pedal though.

You might be experiencing a problem I had with the Stealth Boost (no offense, Brother Neil). Neil built the original one for me. When I turned down the volume on the Stealth it reduced any pedal's effect in the loop. So, when I had it low it reduced the strength of the signal, not just the volume. This is an important distinction. I have a Tuna Melt set to a hard tremolo, a strong off/on tremolo sound like the beginning of Green Day's Boulevard Of Broken Dreams. With the Stealth turned down it reduced the effect to a soft, wavering tremolo which I couldn't use. It really bummed me out because the pedal-build is fantastic. Same thing happened with my DD-20 and chorus pedals in the loop. Just my 2 cents.....I would still have the Stealth Boost if I didn't have pedals in the effects loop. Yes, I had the effects loop volume maxed out ;)

[Thrice_removed]

Hey I just posted this as its own thread, but i will post it here as well since this IS the F-50 lounge.
What are the actual differences between a Dual Rec and an F-50? I mean I would think that generally the Dual Rec would be more aggressive, and the F-50 to have better cleans, but I know absolutely nothing about F-50's and no one around here has one that I can try out. Don't these amps sort of compete with each other? I mean based off of clips I have heard some F-50's get pretty aggressive, but it doesn't make sense to me that Mesa would make two amps that sound similar. Also for whatever reason the F-50s are cheaper. Can someone enlighten me?

[RyGy]

You might be experiencing a problem I had with the Stealth Boost (no offense, Brother Neil). Neil built the original one for me. When I turned down the volume on the Stealth it reduced any pedal's effect in the loop. So, when I had it low it reduced the strength of the signal, not just the volume. This is an important distinction. I have a Tuna Melt set to a hard tremolo, a strong off/on tremolo sound like the beginning of Green Day's Boulevard Of Broken Dreams. With the Stealth turned down it reduced the effect to a soft, wavering tremolo which I couldn't use. It really bummed me out because the pedal-build is fantastic. Same thing happened with my DD-20 and chorus pedals in the loop. Just my 2 cents.....I would still have the Stealth Boost if I didn't have pedals in the effects loop. Yes, I had the effects loop volume maxed out ;)

That is because the loop is Parallel. If you convert it to series which is pretty easy (I saw instructions for it a while back) you will not have that problem.

[RyGy]

Hey I just posted this as its own thread, but i will post it here as well since this IS the F-50 lounge.
What are the actual differences between a Dual Rec and an F-50? I mean I would think that generally the Dual Rec would be more aggressive, and the F-50 to have better cleans, but I know absolutely nothing about F-50's and no one around here has one that I can try out. Don't these amps sort of compete with each other? I mean based off of clips I have heard some F-50's get pretty aggressive, but it doesn't make sense to me that Mesa would make two amps that sound similar. Also for whatever reason the F-50s are cheaper. Can someone enlighten me?

Hi Thrice_Removed. I have an F50, and I just bought a Dual Rec. I have had teh F50 for about two years, and the Dual Rec for about two weeks. They are very different amps. The Dual Rec being three channels with a total of eight modes can do just about any sound you could want. I will admit that the cleans are better on the F50, but I just put some JJ E34Ls in the Dual Rec. They run a bit hot, and it brings the dynamics almost to the same level as teh F50, but the F50 still wins in teh cleans department to my ears. The distortion channel is a completely different story if you are going for a metal sound the dual Rec walks all over the F50 in my opinion there are just so many options, and every one has a great sound. If you just play hard rock, and anything that is not over the top the F50 does a very good job. I find that the F50s EQ isn't as dramatic as the Rec so I had to run an EQ in the loop. With the Dual Rec it is pretty responsive.

That is my opinion but keep in mind that I haven't had the Dual Rec for too long, and I am running it with JJ E34Ls which change the sound dramatically. I don't really like the Dual Rec with the stock 6L6s. The E34Ls have a tighter low end that isn't as boomy, and the upper mids are richer, and come through better. If you can even try a Dual Rec, or single with EL34s that is pretty close to the E34Ls.

If you like the Marshall sound you might want to have a look at the Stilletto. I tried on the other day, and it is a very good sound very different from the Dual Rec, and the F50. It sounds like a higher gain, higher quality Marshall that has a reliable output transformer.

Main thing is to try to A/B the amps that you are interested in with your own guitar, and let your ears decide.

[Lt_Core]

That is because the loop is Parallel. If you convert it to series which is pretty easy (I saw instructions for it a while back) you will not have that problem.

Too late now ;)

I talked to Neil about it and he wasn't sure what the problem was either. Doesn't matter now. I have an Xotic AC booster which gives me more tone options for solos and other stuff.

[jcoggins7]

Lt. Core, did you have the modulation & echo effects before the Stealth Boost or after? I would think that if you put it after it, then you wouldn't have had that problem.

[Rodimus Prime]

hey hal, what type of recto do you have again? I've been itching for a recto but honestly i don't know why. just gas.
What are the tonal characteristics between your F100 and recto head?

[fastlevrai]

Hi guys,

That's me again,

No news from Dann's the man?

If somebody knows pages with bluesy settings i described, it's cool :-)

Yan

[jcoggins7]

DUDE guys guess what I just bought a ticket to go see...G3! I'm going to see Satch, Gilbert, and the man himself JOHN PETRUCCI on March 27th at the Ryman in Nashville, TN. I'm so jacked right now for it. Portnoy's guest drumming too.

[whathappened]

Hi guys,

That's me again,

No news from Dann's the man?

If somebody knows pages with bluesy settings i described, it's cool :-)

Yan

I don't know what you are lookin' for exactly...
But have you tried to set the clean channel's master and gain so high that the tubes starts to overdrive? Ok, this could be loud...
With the deep pickup of my tele plus the volume and treble knob I get some singin' blues tones...

i guess every setting here is posted sounds pretty different with different setups... might be wrong...

[Joeytpg]

Rodimus, hal has a beautiful white Tremoverb

[Dann'sTheMan]

Hi guys,

That's me again,

No news from Dann's the man?

If somebody knows pages with bluesy settings i described, it's cool :-)

Yan


Salut fastlevrai,

Désolée! Ça fait longtemps et j'étais occupé avec les autres affaires. Hopefully a little bit of French will bring me back into your good books - unless of course, you primarily speak Flemish. :o :p

For lower gain sounds, some of my favourites (in o'clock scale) include Channel 2 (try both with and without Contour):

G:8.30 T:9 M:3 B:9 MV:1
G:9 T:5 M:5 B:1 MV:1
G:9 T:8 M:3.30 B:10.15 MV:1
G:9 T:9.15 M:2 B:9.15 MV:1
G:8.30 T:2 M:12.30 B:12.30 MV:1
G:8.30 T:9 M:3 B:9 MV:1
G:8.30 T:5 M:12 B:2 MV:1

I usually use a Strat type guitar for these kinds of sounds. The Gain dial is very sensitive in the 8.30 to 9 o'clock area, but there are lots of sweet tones in there - don't be afraid to crank the Master Volume (use the volume pedal in the loop trick to keep the overal levels sane). Also, with the Gain down this low, the Bass control can be used quite liberally to get the right kind of authentic vintage fullness, without things getting flabby.

One additional trick is to use something to boost the front end. As the Gain levels are turned up, the F-series' voicing becomes increasingly modern. If you want to keep the more vintage voice, but need the extra dirt, use a boost/EQ/overdrive/compressor pedal to hit the front end harder (I use an old MXR Dynacomp in my rig). I've found with the gain down low on channel 2, the amp responds very well to boost pedals. I've also heard great results with Tubescreamer type pedals on channel 1 for more of a SRV kind of vibe.

Hope that helps, my friend, and welcome to the F-series brotherhood! :thu:

Big smiles,

Andy.

[Polaris20]

My F-50 arrives today! I got it off of Evilbay.....is there anything I should be checking to make sure everything's functioning properly?
Can't wait to try it with my SD-1 and Echo Park.
This amp is 17 years in the making (I've wanted a Mesa ever since I was 14).

[MrVisual]

Hey everyone! New F-50 head owner here. I got the last one...and a big discount.

I was thinking of getting a Mesa Recto 2x12 cab. Does that sound like a good idea? I will buy a 2x12 cab and maybe this will sound the best. At least it beat the hell out of that Mesa 3/4 closed back when I tested those.

I love this amp BUT lead sounds are a little too thick and warm to me. I would like to have something with more middle frequencies and clarity for the fast runs that I occasionally do. Something like Andy Timmons or John Petrucci has. Recommend me some pedals or settings please.

I am going to buy some effects too. Delay is the most important of these. Maybe some chorus and tremolo after that. Which pedals can handle that line level thing of a parallel loop? Or should I just save some cash and go for G-Major?

This F-lounge is awesome and I have been reading it for a while. Thanks to everyone.

[musicdog400]

Hey everyone! New F-50 head owner here. I got the last one...and a big discount.

I was thinking of getting a Mesa Recto 2x12 cab. Does that sound like a good idea? I will buy a 2x12 cab and maybe this will sound the best. At least it beat the hell out of that Mesa 3/4 closed back when I tested those.

I love this amp BUT lead sounds are a little too thick and warm to me. I would like to have something with more middle frequencies and clarity for the fast runs that I occasionally do. Something like Andy Timmons or John Petrucci has. Recommend me some pedals or settings please.

I am going to buy some effects too. Delay is the most important of these. Maybe some chorus and tremolo after that. Which pedals can handle that line level thing of a parallel loop? Or should I just save some cash and go for G-Major?

This F-lounge is awesome and I have been reading it for a while. Thanks to everyone.


You might want to try an EQ in the loop (remember to dial the mix pot all the way up to 90 %). I used the EQ to switch between normal, with has enough mids for me, and scooped for a more recto sound.

[fastlevrai]

Salut fastlevrai,

Désolée! Ça fait longtemps et j'étais occupé avec les autres affaires. Hopefully a little bit of French will bring me back into your good books - unless of course, you primarily speak Flemish. :o :p

For lower gain sounds, some of my favourites (in o'clock scale) include Channel 2 (try both with and without Contour):

G:8.30 T:9 M:3 B:9 MV:1
G:9 T:5 M:5 B:1 MV:1
G:9 T:8 M:3.30 B:10.15 MV:1
G:9 T:9.15 M:2 B:9.15 MV:1
G:8.30 T:2 M:12.30 B:12.30 MV:1
G:8.30 T:9 M:3 B:9 MV:1
G:8.30 T:5 M:12 B:2 MV:1

I usually use a Strat type guitar for these kinds of sounds. The Gain dial is very sensitive in the 8.30 to 9 o'clock area, but there are lots of sweet tones in there - don't be afraid to crank the Master Volume (use the volume pedal in the loop trick to keep the overal levels sane). Also, with the Gain down this low, the Bass control can be used quite liberally to get the right kind of authentic vintage fullness, without things getting flabby.

One additional trick is to use something to boost the front end. As the Gain levels are turned up, the F-series' voicing becomes increasingly modern. If you want to keep the more vintage voice, but need the extra dirt, use a boost/EQ/overdrive/compressor pedal to hit the front end harder (I use an old MXR Dynacomp in my rig). I've found with the gain down low on channel 2, the amp responds very well to boost pedals. I've also heard great results with Tubescreamer type pedals on channel 1 for more of a SRV kind of vibe.

Hope that helps, my friend, and welcome to the F-series brotherhood! :thu:

Big smiles,

Andy.

Hey guy ! :-)

Your french is pretty good i thought you were a french guy :)

Well thanks SO MUCH for those settings, i'm going to try them.

As I told you, i'm searching for a Hendrix sound (on typical songs like Bold as love, Castles made of sand, One rainy wish, little wing, ...) and i know Boogie isn't Marshall but i just can't get a Marshall with my Mesa, and i love the Mesa, i couldn't get all the sounds i get with it, with a Marshall so...
And i play on a strat (with a Duncan hotrail on the bridge) of course :D

I will tell you what i think of the settings, but one more time, thank you so much for everything brother :)

I got to go , but did you receive my mp's?

Yan

[Lt_Core]

My F-50 arrives today! I got it off of Evilbay.....is there anything I should be checking to make sure everything's functioning properly?
Can't wait to try it with my SD-1 and Echo Park.
This amp is 17 years in the making (I've wanted a Mesa ever since I was 14).

Not sure if you'll need the SD-1. I've tried many OD's with my F-50. I only use an EH Little Big Muff. Let us know how you like your amp. Congrats! It's a beast!

[Polaris20]

Not sure if you'll need the SD-1. I've tried many OD's with my F-50. I only use an EH Little Big Muff. Let us know how you like your amp. Congrats! It's a beast!

Oh I will! I'm a little nervous though, because I am not sure if the guy I bought it from removed the tubes prior to shipping, or if he left them in. He said he doubleboxed it and packed it really well though.

[Lt_Core]

Oh I will! I'm a little nervous though, because I am not sure if the guy I bought it from removed the tubes prior to shipping, or if he left them in. He said he doubleboxed it and packed it really well though.

There is so much distortion/gain on tap. I bought my F-50 off of eBay. The seller did not remove the tubes. I just checked to make sure they were seeded right before I fired it up. Have you played an F-50 yet?

[Polaris20]

There is so much distortion/gain on tap. I bought my F-50 off of eBay. The seller did not remove the tubes. I just checked to make sure they were seeded right before I fired it up. Have you played an F-50 yet?

Yes, I have. First I played an F-30. Hated it. HATED!! And I wrote off the whole series. Then I played an F-50 upon a friend insisting they sound very different. They do!

I am guessing I just don't like the EL84 sound coupled with a V30.

[andershoeg]

Dont hate the f-30! It's a nice friend of mine! :)

[mynameistaken]

Does anyone know how to use a GT 8 for channel switching on an F-50? I know somewhere buried in this long thread there was some discussion. I am only interested in Channel switching, i don't ever use the contour or reverb.

Thanks!

[Polaris20]

Dont hate the f-30! It's a nice friend of mine! :)

It's not a bad amp, I am sure those that dig the EL84 sound like it. It's just definitely not for me!

[Lt_Core]

.....i don't ever use the contour....

That's a sin ;)

Huge sounding heavy rock/metal tones in such a small amp. Just giving you a hard time :)

[jcoggins7]

I used to be like Polaris20 in that I hated the F-30. You see, I tried out an F-30, and I didn't think it was all that great. Then I tried out an F-50, and knew I had to have one. Since I've gotten my F-50, I've played a couple F-30s, and now I love them. I think I probably had bad settings or didn't turn it up loud enough when I first played it. If I didn't have my F-50, then I would consider the F-30 for an EL84/EL34 powered amp. However, instead, I think I'm leaning towards either a Stiletto Ace, Lonestar Special, or Suhr Badger.

[Polaris20]

Well, I got it. Really, I am quite disappointed. It's not the sound I remember, and I honestly like my old Valveking better. I tried all the settings recommended, and it just doesn't do it for me. Plus it's noisier than my ValveKing was. Not a lot, but enough to be irritating.

This sucks. I am not supposed to like a cheap chinese amp better than a Mesa. But yet I do.

[MrVisual]

I think that this Mesa is a billion times better than Valveking, whatever your playing style is.

[Polaris20]

I think that this Mesa is a billion times better than Valveking, whatever your playing style is.

Logically it should be, but it sure doesn't sound like it, nor does it sound like any of the clips I've heard.

I know Mesas typically aren't plug and play amps, but even using the recommended settings it just doesn't sound good to me.

[MrVisual]

Seems like your amp isn´t working properly... I tested my F-50 head through a Mesa Recto 2x12 cab and it sounded better than most of the clips here. Only Tommi Inkila´s sound overpowers this.

[Lt_Core]

Wow, that's too bad. I could not stand the Valveking when I played it. My F-50 is dead silent and packed full of tone. Are your master volumes up past 9:30-10 o'clock? Tubes seeded properly, not loose?

At first I didn't care for the F-50. I was not used to a real tube amp. Maybe give it some time. Try the FX 1/4" mod so you can push the amp but keep it at bedroom levels for tone. Just an idea. Good luck.

[Polaris20]

Wow, that's too bad. I could not stand the Valveking when I played it. My F-50 is dead silent and packed full of tone. Are your master volumes up past 9:30-10 o'clock? Tubes seeded properly, not loose?

At first I didn't care for the F-50. I was not used to a real tube amp. Maybe give it some time. Try the FX 1/4" mod so you can push the amp but keep it at bedroom levels for tone. Just an idea. Good luck.

haha no! I'd get the cops called if the master was at 10 o'clock.

I half expected it to sound decent at non-disturbing the peace levels, but it doesn't. The VK (imo) does.
Perhaps if I got a Hot Plate for it it would be better.
There's nothing wrong with the amp, it behaves just as expected. It's just the tone I don't care for.

[barneyc4]

Selling my F-50 combo for $550 shipped and paypal charged covered.
http://img218.imageshack.us/img218/4316/boogie2ph7.jpg

http://www.thegearpage.net/board/showthread.php?p=2169258#post2169258

PM me or email me: barneychamorro@gmail.com

sorry but its an emergency spam

[Joeytpg]

Dude too bad, the F-50 is such a beast.

what do i recommend? stay with it for at least a month. Play it, change the settings, in other words get used to it and most importantly try not to compare it with the Valveking, even if you don't think you're are comparing, unconsciously you are.

Check if the tubes are loose, or even damaged.

It took me a while getting used to it too. I was a Valvestate amp player and this is my first Tube amp, so as you know there are real tonal differences. At first my F-50 seemed TOO LOOSE, and like it lacked Gain (can you believe that? hehehe with ALL that gain it has) but my ears were tricking me, so i made a few mods to my guitar pick ups (leveled 'em up basically) and just started playing the amp.

After a few weeks it either came alive or my ears warmed up to the sound of it, but it's great. It's NOT an amp for heavy metal, again, you can ge there with an EQ in the loop, maybe an OD pedal, with a closed back 4x12 but it's not a heavy metal amp, and this is just MY personal opinion. But i believe it's a awesom Hard Rock - Rock - Alternative - Bluesy/jazzy amp.

The Hard Rock tones i get out of it are simply GREAT. Take it as it is, and MOST IMPORTANTLY, as DannTheMan says, trust your ears, if after a while it STILL lacks "something" for you, go with something else. :wave:

[zer0psi]

Well, homies, it's official. I'm leaving the ranks. I love my F-50, but I want to try a VHT, and at this point in my life, I can only afford one nice amp at a time. I found a good deal on a 100/CL, and that should be here Monday. The F-50 is departing for it's journey to its new owner around the same time. It's been great, you guys taught me a lot, but I want to play around with different amps more, and until I'm more financially stable, it's one at a time. Thanks. :thu:

[Goldwing]

Does anyone know how to use a GT 8 for channel switching on an F-50? I know somewhere buried in this long thread there was some discussion. I am only interested in Channel switching, i don't ever use the contour or reverb.

Thanks!

The GT8 has a mono plug, so I should work for change channels only. The custom cable diagram is in the first page if I recall right. You will have to adapt the cable to your needs, I guess that Hall or Dann could give you more advice about how to do it.

[Rodimus Prime]

i played a rented backline three channel triple rectifier last night (and for tonights gig) and i got to tell you... i missed my f50 and marshall 4x12. it was boxy and fizzy. the bass was tighter but wasn't as warm, or as 3dimensional, or as easy to work with as my F50. My F50 has got the nuts and the size and the nice low gain crunch thing that i love so much. I would NOT EVER buy a triple recto. quite disappointed, especially considering how much they go for. The head and mesa 4x12 also had pewter grill... ewww.

[Tommi Inkila]

Hey guys!

Finally it's done :eek:... it feels pretty strange that I've sent the files to mastering and it's out of my hands now. Expect some F-moments in few weeks :)

[Lt_Core]

Selling my F-50 combo for $550 shipped and paypal charged covered.
http://img218.imageshack.us/img218/4316/boogie2ph7.jpg

http://www.thegearpage.net/board/showthread.php?p=2169258#post2169258

PM me or email me: barneychamorro@gmail.com

sorry but its an emergency spam

Killer deal! Anybody that's on the fence should grab this now!!!

[Dann'sTheMan]

Hey guy ! :-)

Your french is pretty good i thought you were a french guy :)

Well thanks SO MUCH for those settings, i'm going to try them.

As I told you, i'm searching for a Hendrix sound (on typical songs like Bold as love, Castles made of sand, One rainy wish, little wing, ...) and i know Boogie isn't Marshall but i just can't get a Marshall with my Mesa, and i love the Mesa, i couldn't get all the sounds i get with it, with a Marshall so...
And i play on a strat (with a Duncan hotrail on the bridge) of course :D

I will tell you what i think of the settings, but one more time, thank you so much for everything brother :)

I got to go , but did you receive my mp's?

Yan

Salut Yan,

Thanks for the compliments on my French - it's been a long time since I used to live in France, but occasionally I get a chance to practice a little! :p

Let me know how you get on with the settings, happy to help a brother in any way I can, :)

Big smiles,

Andy.

[jcoggins7]

Dude guys I just got my Strat back from the shop and it sounds incredible. I got all DiMarzios (Breed in bridge, Cruiser in middle, and Air Norton S in the neck). I also got some custom wiring done to it. I'll post pics sometime in the future.

[Dann'sTheMan]

haha no! I'd get the cops called if the master was at 10 o'clock.

I half expected it to sound decent at non-disturbing the peace levels, but it doesn't. The VK (imo) does.
Perhaps if I got a Hot Plate for it it would be better.
There's nothing wrong with the amp, it behaves just as expected. It's just the tone I don't care for.

Hi Polaris20,

Where do you actually have your Masters set? Don't forget the F-50 is primarily a gigging amp - it can sound great at really low volumes, but it does take a little effort (lots of info in this thread of course); otherwise, it can easily sound disappointing. :thu:

Big smiles,

Andy.

[Dann'sTheMan]

Hey guys!

Finally it's done :eek:... it feels pretty strange that I've sent the files to mastering and it's out of my hands now. Expect some F-moments in few weeks :)

Can't wait! :)

Big smiles,

Andy.

[Lt_Core]

Hi Polaris20,

Where do you actually have your Masters set? Don't forget the F-50 is primarily a gigging amp - it can sound great at really low volumes, but it does take a little effort (lots of info in this thread of course); otherwise, it can easily sound disappointing. :thu:

Big smiles,

Andy.

A big +1 on that, Andy. Since the F-50 was my first tube amp I had troubles early on with the same issue. You have to get the masters around 10 o'clock for the F-50 to truly shine. Yes, it is a gigging amp, to be sure. Our sound companies love working with my band, especially that "little Mesa" ;)

[Joeytpg]

tommi i wanna buy the album, where can i get it?

[fastlevrai]

Salut Yan,

Thanks for the compliments on my French - it's been a long time since I used to live in France, but occasionally I get a chance to practice a little! :p

Let me know how you get on with the settings, happy to help a brother in any way I can, :)

Big smiles,

Andy.

Ah ok cool but your mother tongue is french??? I guess no, if i've well understood.

I give you the settings i've been playing with yesterday night (but in my bedroom, so the master volume is very low)

Gain : 8.30
T : 5.00
M : 9.00
B : 3.00
R : 8.30
M: 9.00

And it sounds pretty good, it's almost the sound i was looking for !

Thanx so much again and yeah, do you also have the problem of the tubes "vibrating" and making a little but disturbing "zzzzzzZZZZZzzzzz" noise, under the vibrations of the HP?

See ya!

Yan

[Tommi Inkila]

tommi i wanna buy the album, where can i get it?
Hey,

checkout the merch-section on my bands page and see if some of the possibilities fits for you... otherwise mail to cds :AT: raveltree.com

thanks :)

[Tommi Inkila]

Can't wait! :)

Big smiles,

Andy.
Can't wait it either :D

[Joeytpg]

Tommi are you gonna tour buddy? coming to spain anytime soon?

[Dann'sTheMan]

Ah ok cool but your mother tongue is french??? I guess no, if i've well understood.

I give you the settings i've been playing with yesterday night (but in my bedroom, so the master volume is very low)

Gain : 8.30
T : 5.00
M : 9.00
B : 3.00
R : 8.30
M: 9.00

And it sounds pretty good, it's almost the sound i was looking for !

Thanx so much again and yeah, do you also have the problem of the tubes "vibrating" and making a little but disturbing "zzzzzzZZZZZzzzzz" noise, under the vibrations of the HP?

See ya!

Yan

Salut Yan,

Tu as bien compris! Ma langue maternelle est anglais. J'ai appris français à l'école, et plus tard, j'ai aussi appris un peu d'allemand et japonais. :thu:

It's great that you've found some settings that have gotten you close. Hopefully the settings I supplied gave you some ideas to get the ball rolling - that was my intention. Dialling the F-series can be quite unconventional. :p

Regarding the noise you are hearing, it may be resonance from something not secured properly. It may also be a tube (pre-amp tube possibly) that has gone microphonic. Try gently tapping the tubes with the end of a pencil, and see if this makes the noise too. If it does, then simply replace that tube. Let us know how you get on, :)

Big smiles,

Andy.

[Tommi Inkila]

Tommi are you gonna tour buddy? coming to spain anytime soon?
I wish it would be up to me. We are hoping to get some attention with our new 3-song cd on the mainstream markets, make another full album and get eventually touring in Europe and rest of the world.

Hopefully that'll be soon :)

[whathappened]

hey fellows!

today I've experienced a "problem" with the reverb when I switch the channels. is it regular, that the reverb only starts working a second after I switched the channel? I guess in a live situation this would not be that bad... but I can't imagine why this existed.
when i switch the reverb on, it is there just after I pushed the button!

greetings to all!

roygbiv!


edit: i forgot something...
tommi, what's your boss ns-2 for in your rig? I've got one too, but I really don't have any function for it. i can imagine it can be good good for staccato metal rhythms... but this is not what I'm looking for. it even makes my f-50 sound slight noisier than without it...

[andershoeg]

mine does that as well. apparently normal i guess....

[jcoggins7]

I've never noticed that problem with my amp, but then, I leave the reverb on all the time and set it very very low.

[Tommi Inkila]

tommi, what's your boss ns-2 for in your rig? I've got one too, but I really don't have any function for it. i can imagine it can be good good for staccato metal rhythms... but this is not what I'm looking for. it even makes my f-50 sound slight noisier than without it...
It's actually for recording, backup and problematic gig places nowadays. I normally use only G-Majors noise gate live. Noise gate is quite a necessity in our style... all those metal staccatos wouldn't be that cool if the amp doesn't stay silent in between. My NS-2 doesn't add noise... and it shouldn't. I wonder if there's something wrong with yours.

[Sindran]

Hi Everybody!
:wave:
I got second hand F-30 Head last week, and played one rehearsals and couple gigs with it last weekend.
I could use only the clean channel cause the distortion channel was feedbacking like hell... It was really no problem 'cause I've been using one-channel amp before and I have bunch of pedals for overdrive and boost.

Today I start playing with the amp first time alone without hassle and noticed that OD channel feedbacks even when the guitar is not plucked in! WTF!!!
So,
I chanced powertubes: no effect.
V4 preamp tube: no effect.
V2 : BINGO!!! It was only original mesa-tube that was left in the amp and was propably just so microphonic it started feedbacking by itself.
I was lucky I had some tubes at home to experience with before I make any angry calls to the seller...

Anyway I have to wait couple weeks to play with my band before I say anything about the OD-channel, but the clean channel seems to finally have the sound I been looking for... :D:thu:

But some people have sayed in this thread that theres no cons with F-series, only pros... well, I have to disagree with that.
1. Compared to my Orange AD-30 head, F-30 feels like a toy, construction wise. It´s just too light! Transformers are tiny. Reverb tank is open in bottom of amp.
2. The powercord and Footswitch-cable connections are behind the grill in back, so its impossible to plug them out!!! How stupid is that??? Everybody who moves their equipment all the time knows what I mean...
3. The footswitch, LED for contour mode goes of when you chance to clean channel, Why??? I would like to know if the contour mode is on or off when I'm on clean channel. + No LED for reverb.

Sorry if I bought you guys back to earth with your F-amps. ;D

I'll be asking some Q:s about the amp later...

Peace...

-W.

[whathappened]

"3. The footswitch, LED for contour mode goes of when you chance to clean channel, Why??? I would like to know if the contour mode is on or off when I'm on clean channel. + No LED for reverb."


I noticed that too... if it's dark you'll see that the contour DOES shine a little bit if it's on and your playing the clean channel.
Also I agree with the cable problem...I just don't want to hurt the speaker with cables...


@ andershoeg: thanks... ;)
@ jcoggins7: i guess it only matters if you have much reverb on.
@ Tommi Inkila: you're right... since i don't play those styles I'm sure I'll sell it. I have to add that the "adding-noise-problem" is only if I use the ns-2's send and return jacks...

[bnelly428]

the contour mode stays in the same configuration as it was last used ie, if you had ch2 on then added contour then went to clean, the next time you switch to ch 2 contour will be on, kinda annoying trying to remember three chords to a song AND contour (ouch harsh sarcasm) haha but i hear ya. i'd like an LED for reverb (and for my reverb to work would be great too, might just get a holy grail pedal instead)

also, I retubed my amp last night with no side effects so far, but noticed that the tubes that were in there were 3 matched and 1 rogue (3 mesas 6l6gc red and 1 sovtek 6l6wgc) could this have had any lasting effects on the power section of my amp, i hadn't noticed any power related issues (until last nights practice before i retubed, but it also could've been a pedal board related issue, havent diagnosed anything yet) thanks!

[Sindran]

the contour mode stays in the same configuration as it was last used ie, if you had ch2 on then added contour then went to clean, the next time you switch to ch 2 contour will be on, kinda annoying trying to remember three chords to a song AND contour

Yep, I know contour stays in last used mode, :p and it´s more like I have to remember 1 chord to a song, but after 10 minutes of that chord its kind a hard to remember where I was with the contour...:eek:

[jcoggins7]

I always remember whether I'm on contour or not. This is because I rarely use the second channel without it lol.

[barneyc4]

Anyone want to cover a Tool song with an F-Series amp? And post it here.

[Tommi Inkila]

Hey guys...

some of you have been asking our album, now it's also available here http://www.lasercd.com/ProductInfo.aspx?productid=SCCD05

[XiXora]

yeah whens ya sequel out so i can buy both at once? :)