Peavey MAX 126 intonation problem

Lavrans · #1 01-01-2013, 10:11 AM

I have noticed a problem with this amp: it seems to distort pitch and intonation. On the A and D strings, it sounds sharp on the 4th and 5th frets. I've played 4 different basses through it, and I have a pretty good ear for using harmonics to tune strings. Has anybody else noticed this problem?

RickenBoogie · #2 01-01-2013, 10:32 AM

It's NOT the amp. It only reproduces what it's fed. Sounds like your bass needs a set up.

dincz · #3 01-01-2013, 10:37 AM

That is odd. Are you using headphones? I found a similar problem and wrote about it here:

http://basschat.co.uk/topic/149021-p...st__p__1326189

dincz · #4 01-01-2013, 10:38 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RickenBoogie

It's NOT the amp. It only reproduces what it's fed. Sounds like your bass needs a set up.

But the same problem with 4 different basses?

BassmanPaul · #5 01-01-2013, 10:49 AM

If you have a chromatic tuner, check the notes that are giving you trouble with the tuner. At least you'll know whether your aged hearing is correct or not.

I've had a few problems with my own!

Lavrans · #6 01-01-2013, 12:39 PM

I have a pretty good ear. I fine-tune by matching harmonics on the 5th and 7th frets, as well as the octaves and 12th fret, and the unisons on the 5th fret/next open string. I also have a Korg tuner, which I am also pretty good at using. I first noticed this on a Steinbrenner (sic), then a little bit on a D'Armond Starfire, less on the Guild Starfire, but very much on the Hohner.
I plugged the Hohner into my new Aguilar TH 350 amp and JC cab, and the intonation was right on the nose. Even my "aging ears" could tell the difference. I'm convinced that there is a tone warp demon in the Peavey. Do I call a tech or a priest? ;=)>

BassmanPaul · #7 01-01-2013, 01:12 PM

Neither. i'll bet Bobby from Peavey will be along shortly.

I too have a pretty good ear - it's the other one that ain't so hot!

PS: I hate Hearing Aids! Even stereo ones.

BbbyBld · #8 01-01-2013, 01:47 PM

You might be hearing a beat frequency between the note and the residual power supply ripple.

BassmanPaul · #9 01-01-2013, 02:18 PM

Told ya he'd be along soon!!!!

BassmanPaul · #10 01-01-2013, 02:22 PM

Now that you mention it Bobby I do recall an amp I worked on quite a while ago. It was having some weird and wonderful problems. Turned out to be failing decoupling caps on the power rails.