Question about a SVT CLASSIC...need input!!!!

[theblackshades]

So I think I'm finally gonna get one. It's gonna cost me $500.

Here's what's wrong:

Missing plastic volume knobs.
Minor tolex wear
Bypass switch does not work

Is this a good deal? How does the bypass not working actually affect the head?

[Marton]

The Bypass switch is probably an easy repair. Seems to worth it, but definitely get the switch repaired.

[theblackshades]

Originally Posted by Marton

The Bypass switch is probably an easy repair. Seems to worth it, but definitely get the switch repaired.

How does the bypass work? I mean what exactly does it do?

[Marton]

By Bypass I was thinking you meant Standby, right ?

[theblackshades]

Originally Posted by Marton

By Bypass I was thinking you meant Standby, right ?

I think so. The guy said it's basically a mute switch...

[JimmyM]

Ya, standby. Not a big deal to get fixed. You can buy knobs from Welcome to Fliptops -- Parts for Ampeg and other Vintage Amp Lovers as well. I'd totally hop on that deal.

[theblackshades]

Originally Posted by JimmyM

Ya, standby. Not a big deal to get fixed. You can buy knobs from Welcome to Fliptops -- Parts for Ampeg and other Vintage Amp Lovers as well. I'd totally hop on that deal.

Thanks! I just wanted to be sure!!!

[grendle]

Might be able to fix the switch with a shot of deoxit If it moves and clicks. Might get lucky.

[Alex1984]

Well, I would still say to test the hell out of it just to make sure everything's in working order.

[coreyfyfe]

Originally Posted by theblackshades

I think so. The guy said it's basically a mute switch...

This says to me you have no idea how to use a tube amp. Before you invest anything I'd say read up a little more on how to operate and maintain a tube amp. It will save you time/money/headache in the long run. Otherwise, that's a great deal on an SVT-CL. If it requires some tech time (ie additional money to get in playing shape) I wouldn't be surprised, but that's a really good deal.

There is a good list of the basics here (second list):
How to use tube guitar amplifier good

Some others:
Tube Amp FAQ 1/20/99 (Frames supported)
Tube Amplifier Survival Tips - Maintenance - KBapps.com
Know Your Tube Amp: Online Resources to Keep Your Amp in Top Shape

[theblackshades]

Originally Posted by coreyfyfe

This says to me you have no idea how to use a tube amp. Before you invest anything I'd say read up a little more on how to operate and maintain a tube amp. It will save you time/money/headache in the long run. Otherwise, that's a great deal on an SVT-CL. If it requires some tech time (ie additional money to get in playing shape) I wouldn't be surprised, but that's a really good deal.

There is a good list of the basics here (second list):
How to use tube guitar amplifier good

Some others:
Tube Amp FAQ 1/20/99 (Frames supported)
Tube Amplifier Survival Tips - Maintenance - KBapps.com
Know Your Tube Amp: Online Resources to Keep Your Amp in Top Shape

You are absolutely right about that. I've played with solid state amps in the 10 years I've been playing. I've demoed tube amps but have never had the money to buy one really. I know about having to change out the tubes but I'm definitely going to read up on that link you posted. Much appreciated.

I've tested it and it works. I just need to get new knobs on it and maybe a tolex job to get it looking new. But it's solid. My tech said he could probably fix the stand by issue. All in all I feel like it was too good a deal to pass on. I can't wait to make my tweaks at practice.

[fenderhutz]

Tube amps will kill you if you don't know what they can do. Good deal on that head.

[theblackshades]

Originally Posted by fenderhutz

Tube amps will kill you if you don't know what they can do. Good deal on that head.

Both guitarists in my band have tube amps as well. That will be helpful for me as I get this thing prepped for it's new life.