Getting Ampeg SVP-PRO + Crown XLS 602

[jamzcl]

Just bought an older Ampeg SVP-PRO preamp yesterday and it should be here next week

I was told it was in "new condition like it had been put in a closet and never played" and still came in the original packaging. I actually like the look of the previous version over the most recent that was discontinued.

I'm gonna pair it up with a Crown XLS 602 I bought a few weeks ago to run an Ampeg SVT-610HLF & an Ampeg SVT-808HE, both cabs rated at 600 watts each. For most gigs I'll use my SVT-450H head since it's lighter and I prefer the classic look, then use one of those cabs.

This is my first adventure into the true tube world. Any tips on this SVP-PRO/Crown combo I should know about? This rig will probably be pushing alot of air when I bring it out.

[RickenBoogie]

Only the preamp is tubed, so nothing really important to know. But, I'm betting it'll sound alot better than the 450 head. Congrats.

[JerBo]

I've been using an SVP-Pro preamp for a while...

Right now I power it with my GK800's power (effects return), pretty much the same thing as you're talking about.

It's a great sounding pre, only thing is it can have a pretty good 60 cycle hum.

Personally, I would try some good 12ax7's in the first 3 valves.
You will get noticeable tone changes trying different tubes.
*There are 4 12ax7's and 1 12au7. The au7 is for the drive control. There's a whole thread on that alone, I think.

Also, I've gotten the best results (and the least hum) by turning the master volume almost maxed.

Also I never use the graphic, but that may be something you like... FYI, the graphic eq is solid state! I thought it sounds much better without it.

Another thing is the Drive control... Adjusting the drive control will completely change the frequency of your bass, specifically in the Low register.
That was one thing that kind of bugged me about it and I ALWAYS kept the drive all the way down because of that.
I still was able to get that warm tube fuzz, but I'm not playing metal either.

I think you'll like it... I'm actually replacing mine with a Sansamp VT bass, only because I'm worried it will crap out on me on the road. Plus it's made some strange noises lately and It's happened twice onstage.
But mine has been HEAVILY used.

If you can get past the hum you'll love the thing.

[jamzcl]

Good info JerBo, Thanks!

Sounds like it might take me a little bit to get it dialed in.....should be a fun adventure though

[username1]

I used to use an ampeg svp pro preamp. Great sounding pre. I found that the driver tube "12ax7 farthest to the right when looking at it from the front" is the tube that was the most sensative to hum. A tungsol wont work in that position without loud hum. Tubes that did seem to work in that position without hum were chineese tubes or eh12ax7. If you have hum try experimenting with different tubes in that position. Mine was very quiet with the right tube in there.