Help with an Ampeg SVT 2

LWagner · #1 12-05-2010, 11:35 PM

I have the chance to pick up an Ampeg SVT 2 for dirt cheap . The only problem is it currently has a 1 bad power tube and 1 bad pre amp tube. My questions are : Can I use the amp with the bad tubes without damaging it ? and .... are the 2 bad tubes a sign that the amp might have something else wrong with it? ...... I'm new to tube amps and appreciate your help!

rodl2005 · #2 12-06-2010, 01:06 AM

NO- don't use it. I dunno a lot about the inner workings of all tube amps-apart from they hold LETHAL voltages, even when switched OFF & a few other tid bits, but AFAIK U DON'T use a tube amp with bad tubes.
These are SUCH good amps-

the '89-'92 SVTII(- the SVT2PRO is a different beast)

- that if it's a GREAT price, it shouldn't be MUCH to repair.
Sure a new set of tubes will set you back- but once thats done & the amp's BEEN checked over by a qualified tube amp tech- you're good to go-SERIOUSLY- for years!!

Alex1984 · #3 12-06-2010, 01:37 AM

Yep! SVT 2's are great! bad tubes are just something that you have to deal with once in a while, especially if they're old. Unless if the tubes are new and still broke, then there's no need to worry.

JimmyM · #4 12-06-2010, 02:09 AM

a couple bad tubes doesn't necessarily mean there's anything else wrong with it, but they should be replaced before you do anything with it. however, you only have the word of the guy selling it that those are the only things wrong with it, so if i were you, i'd buy it and take it to your local trustworthy amp tech to get checked out. if it were only the preamp tube, i'd just say replace it yourself and don't worry about taking it in, but power tubes should be matched and biased so you can get the best performance out of them. svt power tubes are grouped into two sets of three, and each set of three should be matched. see if your tech might be able to match a new power tube with the old ones. sometimes they can if they have a decent collection of tubes at the shop. if not, you might need to replace 3 of them. but you shouldn't have to replace all 6 unless tubes on both sides are out.

LWagner · #5 12-06-2010, 04:37 PM

Thank you guys a ton for the info!

anderbass · #6 12-06-2010, 04:48 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by LWagner

I have the chance to pick up an Ampeg SVT 2 for dirt cheap .

I paid 8 for mine, how much is he asking?

LWagner · #7 12-06-2010, 08:52 PM

hes asking $500 but its been for sale for some time now soo I think i could get it for $400

anderbass · #8 12-06-2010, 11:09 PM

Sweet, do It. Run dont walk!