Master/Gain settings on GK MB210 combo...

[mello_bedwetter]

To start off I just read this....."To set the level on most bass amps, start with the tone controls all set flat and the Master around noon. Next, bring up the input Gain. Usually somewhere between 10 o’clock and 1 o’clock works pretty well, and many amps have an LED that flashes when an input goes into clipping. On bass, input clipping is not a good thing, because it introduces ugly distortion at a point in the amp where you don’t want it. Generally, you bring up the input level until the clip light flashes on the loudest or lowest notes and then turn it down just a bit.

Once set for a particular bass, you’ll leave the channel input alone. That’s where the Master control comes into play—setting your actual volume. By using this approach to gain staging, you’ll get the cleanest, most solid bass sound. Internal and external effects can then add any grit or distortion you may want.

The MB210 doesn't have a "clipping" light. Can anyone help out as far as setting the master/gain? Do you have a sequence you use to set the M/G settings? I appreciate any help. I use to have a Fender Bassman 250/210 which had a "clipping" light. Thanks for any help.

[RickenBoogie]

Set it to noon. Should be fine.

[mello_bedwetter]

Originally Posted by RickenBoogie

Set it to noon. Should be fine.

So set the Gain at 12 and use the Master to control the volume...right?

[Kael]

You can think of the gain knob on GK's as a light overdrive knob. It increases the gain similar to how you can drive a tube amp. Will not only affect volume but also the "gk growl". Start with it around 10 o'clock and tweak it from there.

[Babaghanoush]

Straight from the MB series manual:

5. Level and Master Volume settings: Set the master volume to 3 o'clock. (MB210, MB115 and MB212 only) While playing, turn the input gain up to the desired volume level.
*Some passive instruments can have output levels similar to active electronics. If the sound is distorted when using the passive input, the active input should be used.
* It is recommended that the limiter be engaged during high volume applications. At this point you can experiment with different EQ, contour, horn and boost settings.

I'd start with this and see if it makes your ears happy. I do think the MB210 sounds better with the master volume high.

[mello_bedwetter]

Originally Posted by Babaghanoush

Straight from the MB series manual:

5. Level and Master Volume settings: Set the master volume to 3 o'clock. (MB210, MB115 and MB212 only) While playing, turn the input gain up to the desired volume level.
*Some passive instruments can have output levels similar to active electronics. If the sound is distorted when using the passive input, the active input should be used.
* It is recommended that the limiter be engaged during high volume applications. At this point you can experiment with different EQ, contour, horn and boost settings.

I'd start with this and see if it makes your ears happy. I do think the MB210 sounds better with the master volume high.

Thanks...I need to dig up my manual.

[Stev187]

Originally Posted by Babaghanoush

I do think the MB210 sounds better with the master volume high.

I searched for the best GK MB210 thread to join about this issue and settled on this one. Quick story:

This week, I snagged a smokin' deal on an MB210 combo (slightly used on CL locally for an absurd price--could not pass it up). My son needed a new amp for band class: something modern, light, that could hold its own during a rock class for kids. They are all great kids, but they play really loud (dynamics, I remember, comes later for 10-12 year old who want to ROCK OUT!). The kids play Sabbath, KISS, Twisted Sister... that kind of stuff.

So the first time we plugged into the MB210 was at band class tonight, and I only had a second to help him dial in a sound. Wasn't impressed. It was boomy, hard to hear any definition, but almost too loud at a low setting. The highs were hidden unless Owen did a little fret crunch/mash and then they were overpowering. During his lesson (which is after the band class), read the manual and quickly realized what we'd done wrong. When we got home, I put that master at 3 o'clock and we used the input gain as volume. It was a totally different amp. Can't wait to see how it performs at band class next week. And as the guy who plays roadie to a 10 year old, this 33 lb amp is perfect for this job. Talk about an easy load in!

So, here's a question: any tips or tricks from MB210 owners about setting a good sound? We will probably have some tips of our own in a week or so, but so far we've learned the 3 o'clock thing with master volume, and it's also clear that the amp has so much headroom for its size that we can use the active input for passive pickups. Owen prefers to use the P pickup solo on his short-scale bass, and that pup is pretty hot.

Other tips?

--Steve

P.S. I was the critical one; Owen loved the sound of the amp right away. I guess when you're 10 there's no substitute for really, really loud.

[Stev187]

Originally Posted by Stev187

Can't wait to see how it performs at band class next week.

Just thought I'd leave a note here. After a week of learning how to adjust the EQ of this amp properly, the next band class was perfect. This is the coolest little amp. Sounds punchy and tight, and incredibly loud. For what I paid, you just can't beat it.

And load in is a breeze.

--Steve