How to convert an AMPEG from 110V to 220/240V?

erlingtei · #1 11-12-2006, 12:03 PM

I need to convert my USA model AMPEG SVT3-PRO from being 110V operative, to become 220/240V operative. Can someone help me with some instructions on how to do this?

Erla · #2 01-08-2007, 05:00 PM

Have you found out how to convert it from 110v to 220/240v? I'm thinking of buying an ampeg svtcl from usa to norway, and need tips on how to convert this amp. Hoping you got help and have some tips for me

erlingtei · #3 01-08-2007, 05:05 PM

Hi there Erla. well. i sent my amp to tre45 music in trondheim. they discovered that i had blown some elements in the amp. these things they fixed, and rewired it for me.

it would cost you about 400 kroner to have them rewire it for you - if it's possible with the svtcl. might be you'll have to switch the trafo, then the amount would be around 1500 for the part and maybe 400 for the work.

i_got_a_mohawk · #4 01-08-2007, 05:43 PM

I dont know about the 3-Pro

But, the SVT-CL, has various "taps" on the transformer, for use in different regions.

My old SVT-II non-pro was from the US (has 110V on the chassis etc), and when its looked at internatlly it is clear the wires going from the mains cable to the mains transformer have been changed.

So it should only be a 2 minute job for any tech who knows what he is doing.

BillyB_from_LZ · #5 01-08-2007, 09:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by erlingtei

I need to convert my USA model AMPEG SVT3-PRO from being 110V operative, to become 220/240V operative. Can someone help me with some instructions on how to do this?

You may have a problem. The manual for the SVT3-PRO describes two different versions (in the Spec section) the US Domestic version which is 120 Vac, 60 Hz and the Export version which is 230 Vac 50/60 Hz for Europe or 100 Vac 50/60 Hz for Asia. I suspect that the power transformer on the US Domestic version has a single primary winding.

I'd suggest that you PM Jerrold Tiers. He works for Ampeg and is very (very) helpful.

qunndo · #6 01-08-2007, 10:37 PM

Jerrold will re enforce what you have just said. I purchased a svt pro 4 from the states, but i was lucky as it was a export version and an easy switch. My tech told me that if it was a domestic version they would have needed a new power supply, with a few hundred extra dollars because of that.

smo · #7 01-09-2007, 02:04 AM

I've done it twice.
I used to have an SVT3pro that was converted (transformer tap change) from USA 110v to Aussie 240v, and my current pre-amp, an ampeg SVP-CL (also a USA model - eBay rocks

) was also converted using the 240v tap from the universal transformer.
I was lucky - gotta love mass-manufacturing!

But unfortunately - BillyB may be right, ask your local (trusted) techie - he may be able to steer you in the right direction
good luck, smo

Erla · #8 01-09-2007, 03:30 AM

Thank you! I believe it is possible with the svtcl to, on the rear panel 230v is mentioned. I have an svt450hlf, opened it yesterday and it seemed like it is only to switch to wires to another pin. But I'm not into these electronics, so I think I'll go to a store here in Oslo and hear what they say. thank you all, and if there are somone here who have rewired a svtcl please tell me

Jerrold Tiers · #9 01-09-2007, 11:11 AM

It is indeed possible with the SVTCL.

The only problem with doing what you suggest, is that the US version may not have the required CE mark etc, so that importing it into the EU may be an offence against EU law.

As for the change, it is only a matter of changing the tap connections on the two internal power transformers, and changing the fuse to one of the proper rating.

Two "primary" windings are connected "in parallel" for 120V, and "in series" for 240V. The connection points are on the PWB, and any fairly intelligent technician should be able to do it.

BillyB_from_LZ · #10 01-09-2007, 12:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jerrold Tiers

It is indeed possible with the SVTCL.

...

Jerrold, how about the US version of the SVT3-Pro?

Erla · #11 01-09-2007, 02:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jerrold Tiers

It is indeed possible with the SVTCL.

Thank you so much!

I opened my svt450hlf, don't know if it is the same as in the svtcl. But in this it seems like it's just to change some of the wire to another tap? there are to available taps right beside where the wires now are attached. Is there any chance you can describe which taps the wires should be connected to to make it a 220/240v?

Jerrold Tiers · #12 01-09-2007, 02:37 PM

I'd rather not do that, as there are safety issues involved, and I don't want someone to have a safety problem and maybe electrocute themselves due to some communication problem.......

But repair shops should be able to do the job.

Erla · #13 01-09-2007, 02:48 PM

I understand, thank you for your help!
I'll try to contact a store in town and hear what they say, but now I know that it is possible.

Draken · #14 01-18-2007, 02:40 PM

http://alkorpc.pl/svt3pro.zip

Here you have schematic of svt3 pro.
There is a table with 'export wiring' for transformer, by reconnect some cables you can easy set it for 230V
I have done it myself within 2 minutes
and now I can fully enjoy my svt3 pro connected to 230V

but if you're worring to do something inside your amp better ask somenone who knows a little about electronics, but this schematic is very very helpfull

cya

[EDIT]
and don't forget to change a fuse from 10A to 5A

anotherlin · #15 11-21-2012, 05:54 AM

Just to let you know.

I successfully rewired my 110V (USA) Ampeg SVT3-Pro to 230V (France). There's also a tap for 240v. It's real easy. It just a matter of removing cables and reconnecting them (serial instead of parallel), no need for a soldering iron. The schematics describe the operation very well.

Then switch fuse from 10A to 5A and you're done !