SVT3-Pro volume issue

[mattscud55]

I have an Ampeg SVT3-Pro working with a SWR Henry the 8x8. I just need a little more volume. I have an MXR di+ pedal that I use for a little more oomph, but I really want to keep my tone. Should I invest in a higher end pre-amp/DI like a SansAmp, or something else?

I know other people have had problems with the Ampeg SVT3-Pro not pumping enough sound, but what is the best way to attack this?

Thanks!

[EricF]

In the graphic EQ section, do you have the volume slider pushed all the way up? If not, do it. This is a common reason for people to not get the full capability out of this amp.

[bugmenot]

- Push the gain control until the red light ALWAYS illuminates when you play. This is very important, skip what the manual says about it. Just push the gain, this amp begs for it.
- Use the graphic EQ and put the "level" slider at max
- Do not use the "ultra lo" switch and (very related) do not scoop mids (this could be a common tip for every amp..)
- Do not use the -15db switch even if your bass is active

Great amp, and plenty of volume available.

[stiles72]

First thing I would do is lose the pedal.

Then, depends on how you have the gain and volume set. Rule #1 with a 3-Pro: Ignore the red "idiot" light. Turn the input gain up until the light flickers with every note you hit, then turn the master up as needed. I usually run my input gain no less than noon, and run my master anywhere from 3:00 - 10:00 and I'm pushing an SVT-LGS 215. The tube gain control can give you a little more bite out of the power amp section, so you may want to start with that at noon then experiment from there. I usually run the ultra lo engaged, but I like a big deep sound - and I have no issues being heard. The 3-Pro can thump if set up right.

If that all doesn't work - I'd look at the cab. No idea what ohms the 8x8 is rated but you'll really want a 4 ohm load to get all 450 watts. I'm not a fan of cabs with 10's (or 8's for that matter) myself, but all depends on what you like. I'd probably go with something bigger.

[bongomania]

Also look at the efficiency of the cab, which is given by the sensitivity rating in dB. Higher dB = more sensitive. The full truth is it's not as simple as that, but you have to start somewhere. You will get the most "loudness" from your amp with a 4 ohm cab with great efficiency.

Another angle on efficiency is you can get a lot more loudness "per watt" by boosting your mids and cutting your lows, and loudness can also be improved by adding compression.

[mattscud55]

Thanks, I'll try these and let you know what I find.

[mattscud55]

I slid the EQ to max and it helped a little. The 8x8 is a 4 ohm, and I replaced the speaker cable as well, and it sounds a little clearer.

I'll try it out at rehearsal this week and I'll let you know how it goes. Thanks for all the quick feedback!

[vin*tone]

Good set of posts here. There are a few tricks to getting the most out of the 3 Pro.

[Rockmusician]

Originally Posted by mattscud55

I have an Ampeg SVT3-Pro working with a SWR Henry the 8x8. I just need a little more volume. I have an MXR di+ pedal that I use for a little more oomph, but I really want to keep my tone. Should I invest in a higher end pre-amp/DI like a SansAmp, or something else?

I know other people have had problems with the Ampeg SVT3-Pro not pumping enough sound, but what is the best way to attack this?

Thanks!

About 10 years ago I had a deal with Ampeg. I tried several different heads including the SVT3-Pro and SVT4-Pro. I also had problems with volume. I sent them back and received an SVT Classic. It was better but who wants to haul a 95 pound head to gigs. I eventually gave up the deal and have been using GK ever since without any issues.

[GizmoTheOne]

It's all in the gain knob. This problem has been adressed hundred times before on TB.

Crank that gain knob until the red LED flashes more than 50% of the time. Then you'll have plenty of headroom.

You can also use the "level" slider on the graphic EQ section, but beware, that won't give you much more volume and you will probably end up clipping the amp - and it will sound horrible. It may even blow a speaker.

[jeff62]

Yes to many of the above but one thread that has a consistent ring to these amps being perceived as "underpowered" is making sure the mosfets are biased properly.

The used svt3 I recently purchased was no slouch, but was transformed once the mosfets were properly biased. Tons of headroom. I don't need to turn on the EQ, or do anything special to get headroom.
SVT3Pro Bias Setting

[CullerBass]

An often overlooked problem is the room you're in. Lots of rooms have major phase cancellation problems that will make your amp seem significantly quieter than it actually is.