Fender Rumble LT25, Studio 40 & Stage 800

[G-Dog]

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Happy Fender Friday!

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[Diver]

Au contraire, mon cherie! The Fender TONE App is indeed available for Windows and MacOS! It's the only way to update the firmware in the Rumble LT25.

It, supposably, doesn't work on the Stage or Studio, but I wouldn't be surprised if some software wizards here find a way around that.
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First, how did you know I am French?
I think only the software wizards at Fender could do it. The real question is how many more of the Stage/Studio vs LT amps need to be sold for Fender to reconcile their modelling platforms into the same tool.
Devs at Fender have the code in front of them and are not doing it for most likely technical challenges that are yet not worth the effort, I doubt some dedicated programmer would take the time to "get in" the code, reverse engineer and bring modifications, which would be annihilated and would have to be redone every time Fender has a new update.
An open source platform for effects/IR makers would be awesome though. I know there is a community of people sharing presets, but programming effects and designing them sounds like a cool thing to do to keep the community active in the same way game developers allow for artists to create in-game assets.

 

[G-Dog]

Hello Rumblers, I wanted to share the following tip since a lot of people use the Stage/Studio for recording and I doubt Fender Tone will ever be built for Windows.

When at home, I have my amp next to the PC for recording and having to use my Android phone on top of the DAW on the PC has become really annoying, on top of that, my finger digits are completely ruined for touch screens due to...bass. To top it off, my son has officially taken over my iPad...

I found this little free and open source app that mirrors the screen of my Android onto my PC and allows me to control the app with the mouse from my desktop. It sits next to the DAW on my desktop screen. Also, it doesn't require to install anything on your phone.
Genymobile/scrcpy (You have to scroll down, find the windows version, download it, extract it and run scrcpy.exe).

There are paid apps that do that, like Vysor or ApowerMirror, but the price is way high and they want access to your files, location etc.

View attachment 3866319

Cheers!

Au contraire, mon cherie! The Fender TONE App is indeed available for Windows and MacOS! It's the only way to update the firmware in the Rumble LT25.

It, supposably, doesn't work on the Stage or Studio, but I wouldn't be surprised if some software wizards here find a way around that.
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First, how did you know I am French? ... ...

I didn't know that, Divey! I just thought that was a nicer way to say, "No, yer wrong, dude!" N'est-ce pas?
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... ... I think only the software wizards at Fender could do it. ... ...

But yet, you got the Android TONE App working on your PC! And if you can do that, then who knows what else can be done? Ne jamais dire jamais.
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... ... The real question is how many more of the Stage/Studio vs LT amps need to be sold for Fender to reconcile their modelling platforms into the same tool.
Devs at Fender have the code in front of them and are not doing it for most likely technical challenges that are yet not worth the effort, I doubt some dedicated programmer would take the time to "get in" the code, reverse engineer and bring modifications, which would be annihilated and would have to be redone every time Fender has a new update.
An open source platform for effects/IR makers would be awesome though. I know there is a community of people sharing presets, but programming effects and designing them sounds like a cool thing to do to keep the community active in the same way game developers allow for artists to create in-game assets.

It's possible that Fender contracted out the dev of their TONE Apps and that the version for Windows & Mac for the Rumble/Mustang LT25s are significantly less complicated than for the other Rumble/Mustangs. I dunno.

It's also possible that wild success in the marketplace, plus overwhelming interest from users, could lead to the reconciliation you suggest. I dunno that, either.

Meanwhile, we just gotta do what we can with what we have, until someone (like you) shows us a better way. Hmmm, and that just gave me an idea for our next edit to the Rumble Club Wiki page (linked in my signature). Stay tuned! . . . . . .
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[G-Dog]

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Attention: Rumble Club Wiki Edit Alert!

Thanks, @Diver. A link to your post describing How To Run the Android Fender TONE App on Your PC has been added to the Rumble Club Wiki page at the bottom of the TONE App Support section. This is a potentially groundbreaking discovery! I now see it being a great addition to using with @Droopy_TX's preset spreadsheets, in addition to with a DAW, like you do. Other applications are sure to follow! Man! These amps and their software just keeps on boggling my mind!!! Though, admittedly, that's not hard to do these days.

Thank you again, Divey, for sharing this valuable discovery.

Rumble On!​

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[Diver]

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Attention: Rumble Club Wiki Edit Alert!

Thanks, @Diver. A link to your post describing How To Run the Android Fender TONE App on Your PC has been added to the Rumble Club Wiki page at the bottom of the TONE App Support section. This is a potentially groundbreaking discovery! I now see it being a great addition to using with @Droopy_TX's preset spreadsheets, in addition to with a DAW, like you do. Other applications are sure to follow! Man! These amps and their software just keeps on boggling my mind!!! Though, admittedly, that's not hard to do these days.

Thank you again, Divey, for sharing this valuable discovery.
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Thanks, it is nothing compared to what I get back from this site and especially this thread! Glad to contribute!

 

[bhendrix]

Question for you Studio 40 owners. Was looking to pull the trigger on a new LT25, however G-Dog got me rethinking this as - like him - I have a R500c and "may" enjoy chaining it through the 500. So due to connectivity, I'm thinking I may be ultimately happier with the Studio 40.

Only concern is I'm seeing alot of reviews with issues on the LCD screen going out and problems with occasional poor wifi/bluetooth performance. LCD screen not a major issue as I understand you can still use the phone app if it goes out. Have recent firmware/software updates rectified these issues?

 

[iagtrplyr]

Question for you Studio 40 owners. Was looking to pull the trigger on a new LT25, however G-Dog got me rethinking this as - like him - I have a R500c and "may" enjoy chaining it through the 500. So due to connectivity, I'm thinking I may be ultimately happier with the Studio 40.

Only concern is I'm seeing alot of reviews with issues on the LCD screen going out and problems with occasional poor wifi/bluetooth performance. LCD screen not a major issue as I understand you can still use the phone app if it goes out. Have recent firmware/software updates rectified these issues?

Fancy meeting you here! Owning the Stage 800, I can proudly say I have never had one problem with the screen, update issues, or even the Bluetooth connection. I know not everyone has been as fortunate, but the Fender platform seems pretty stable overall and it wouldn’t stop me from buying a modeling amp.

If you just want a fun toy to mess with I’d got for the 25-water and count the cash leftover. But if you’re thinking I want lots of models and flexibility, then the Studio 40 is the only choice. Add the floor pedal and you’re set. Heck, run that through your 500 and play shows!

 

[NordicBard]

I never had a single issue with the LCD screen - However, I had HEAPS of trouble with the WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity. Like... 'I wanna tear the remaining hair on my balding head' - With loads of dropouts and trouble connecting.

However (!) this was all solved by switching to an Apple product, where all my before mentioned trouble went away. No idea if it was just my 3-4 android based products, their android versions or some weird 3rd option, but with Apple (Urgh...) the Studio 40 is now absolutely perfect!

Granted, at the moment it is getting some serious compitition from a Line 6 HX Stomp matched with a Headrush FR112 - But the Studio 40 is more than enough for home use (Heck, even if you start going through all the amp / cap / pedal options right now, I will bet you are still finding sweet tones by Christmas - The Studio / Stage are LOADED with sweet sounding tones).

Do yourself a favor though - Get the foot pedal. It opens up a whole new world - I like to start off by a basic guitar rythm and loop that, then switch to the bass and just go to town. All while you are streaming one of the millions of drum 'play-alongs' on Youtube.

 

[bhendrix]

If you just want a fun toy to mess with I’d got for the 25-water and count the cash leftover

Ahhhh - the voice of reason! I'd say 98% of the time, the new acquisition will be for practice purposes - and the extra added models/effects just makes that more fun than a barrel of monkeys.

But if you’re thinking I want lots of models and flexibility, then the Studio 40 is the only choice. Add the floor pedal and you’re set. Heck, run that through your 500 and play shows!

So I gots to ask myself...."Self, is 2% of the time worth $180?" Thinking it may be as I can see myself finding some real juicy settings and wanting to show-off with the bandmates! Problem is right now, the Studio 40 is a HOT commodity. You can find em on Reverb, but the major onliners (including my preferred vendor) are out of stock. Word is may be end of July before the new shipments hit - more than likely due to supply chain issues resulting from covid...

 

[bhendrix]

I never had a single issue with the LCD screen - However, I had HEAPS of trouble with the WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity. Like... 'I wanna tear the remaining hair on my balding head' - With loads of dropouts and trouble connecting.

Thanks for your feedback!
Yea, I'm no where near a guru on all this modern connectivity stuff, so as long as it has an aux in plug (it does) and a USB port to update with a computer (it does) - I'm golden!

 

[Diver]

Question for you Studio 40 owners. Was looking to pull the trigger on a new LT25, however G-Dog got me rethinking this as - like him - I have a R500c and "may" enjoy chaining it through the 500. So due to connectivity, I'm thinking I may be ultimately happier with the Studio 40.

Only concern is I'm seeing alot of reviews with issues on the LCD screen going out and problems with occasional poor wifi/bluetooth performance. LCD screen not a major issue as I understand you can still use the phone app if it goes out. Have recent firmware/software updates rectified these issues?

I had my fair share of issues with Bluetooth/Wifi at first (documented in this thread). After stress testing the Stage 800 with Apple, Android and even Windows Bluetooth in streaming and app mode simultaneously, the unit started dropping out for seconds unless I unpaired everything and didn't use Fender Tone while I was streaming audio. Restoring the factory settings/firmware didn't do it, like it was "bricked".
I returned the unit for another one and NEVER paired it with my old gen bluetooth card in my PC and now make sure to unpair all devices before connecting a new one, which I associated with my problems and that solved it. I can stream and use Fender Tone without issues now. It is also possible that some of these bug fixes have been rolled out since. As we all know here, Fender is not the most descriptive about their small updates to the Tone app.

In regards to the LCD, yes it can add a failure point in the chain, but unlike the Bluetooth issues, it is designed in a way that it doesn't affect the amp itself and keeps it functional.
For the reference, I work for a loudspeaker manufacturer that integrated LCD screens in our powered loudspeakers since 15 years, they are used in professional large venues in rough conditions and it is not perceived as an element of failure.
Issues related to power supplies, Bluetooth or speaker cones failing are happening at a much higher rate than those related to LCD screens.
That seems to coincide with the amount of failures reported online about that line of Rumble amps ( I looked for a lot of them when I had issues), so I wouldn't let it discourage you from using it in live environment.

Personally, I would question the use of a Studio as a modelling head. I think it is great to be able to couple with another Rumble it if you have them both, but unless you plan on hauling the amp back home for practice every time, for the same price, I would look into a good FX modelling effect board with IR, unless you don't plan on travelling a lot with it.
In my case, I have the Stage 800 in my garage, next to my recording PC, I love using its effects and IRs while recording and I will commit to bring it to gigs outside. However when I go upstairs or anywhere else in my house for some quiet practice, I cannot bring my effects with me. Now I am contemplating getting a Studio just for that, but I am also considering a more portable solution, which Fender should really get on cramming their platform in a pedal/DI box.

Also I didn't ditch all my pedals for the effects from the Rumble. There are synths, distortions, envelope filters and compressors that was not able to replicate in the Rumble.

+1 on the footswitch for the Rumble, this is really how you will interact live with your presets to get the best out of the amp.

 

[iagtrplyr]

I never had a single issue with the LCD screen - However, I had HEAPS of trouble with the WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity. Like... 'I wanna tear the remaining hair on my balding head' - With loads of dropouts and trouble connecting.

However (!) this was all solved by switching to an Apple product, where all my before mentioned trouble went away. No idea if it was just my 3-4 android based products, their android versions or some weird 3rd option, but with Apple (Urgh...) the Studio 40 is now absolutely perfect!

Granted, at the moment it is getting some serious compitition from a Line 6 HX Stomp matched with a Headrush FR112 - But the Studio 40 is more than enough for home use (Heck, even if you start going through all the amp / cap / pedal options right now, I will bet you are still finding sweet tones by Christmas - The Studio / Stage are LOADED with sweet sounding tones).

Do yourself a favor though - Get the foot pedal. It opens up a whole new world - I like to start off by a basic guitar rythm and loop that, then switch to the bass and just go to town. All while you are streaming one of the millions of drum 'play-alongs' on Youtube.

Interesting. I too possess an iPhone. Maybe there is something to it. And as to what Diver mentioned, my Windows doesn’t get used with the amp. Key to happiness?

 

[iagtrplyr]

I had my fair share of issues with Bluetooth/Wifi at first (documented in this thread). After stress testing the Stage 800 with Apple, Android and even Windows Bluetooth in streaming and app mode simultaneously, the unit started dropping out for seconds unless I unpaired everything and didn't use Fender Tone while I was streaming audio. Restoring the factory settings/firmware didn't do it, like it was "bricked".
I returned the unit for another one and NEVER paired it with my old gen bluetooth card in my PC and now make sure to unpair all devices before connecting a new one, which I associated with my problems and that solved it. I can stream and use Fender Tone without issues now. It is also possible that some of these bug fixes have been rolled out since. As we all know here, Fender is not the most descriptive about their small updates to the Tone app.

In regards to the LCD, yes it can add a failure point in the chain, but unlike the Bluetooth issues, it is designed in a way that it doesn't affect the amp itself and keeps it functional.
For the reference, I work for a loudspeaker manufacturer that integrated LCD screens in our powered loudspeakers since 15 years, they are used in professional large venues in rough conditions and it is not perceived as an element of failure.
Issues related to power supplies, Bluetooth or speaker cones failing are happening at a much higher rate than those related to LCD screens.
That seems to coincide with the amount of failures reported online about that line of Rumble amps ( I looked for a lot of them when I had issues), so I wouldn't let it discourage you from using it in live environment.

Personally, I would question the use of a Studio as a modelling head. I think it is great to be able to couple with another Rumble it if you have them both, but unless you plan on hauling the amp back home for practice every time, for the same price, I would look into a good FX modelling effect board with IR, unless you don't plan on travelling a lot with it.
In my case, I have the Stage 800 in my garage, next to my recording PC, I love using its effects and IRs while recording and I will commit to bring it to gigs outside. However when I go upstairs or anywhere else in my house for some quiet practice, I cannot bring my effects with me. Now I am contemplating getting a Studio just for that, but I am also considering a more portable solution, which Fender should really get on cramming their platform in a pedal/DI box.

Also I didn't ditch all my pedals for the effects from the Rumble. There are synths, distortions, envelope filters and compressors that was not able to replicate in the Rumble.

+1 on the footswitch for the Rumble, this is really how you will interact live with your presets to get the best out of the amp.

I had my fair share of issues with Bluetooth/Wifi at first (documented in this thread). After stress testing the Stage 800 with Apple, Android and even Windows Bluetooth in streaming and app mode simultaneously, the unit started dropping out for seconds unless I unpaired everything and didn't use Fender Tone while I was streaming audio. Restoring the factory settings/firmware didn't do it, like it was "bricked".
I returned the unit for another one and NEVER paired it with my old gen bluetooth card in my PC and now make sure to unpair all devices before connecting a new one, which I associated with my problems and that solved it. I can stream and use Fender Tone without issues now. It is also possible that some of these bug fixes have been rolled out since. As we all know here, Fender is not the most descriptive about their small updates to the Tone app.

In regards to the LCD, yes it can add a failure point in the chain, but unlike the Bluetooth issues, it is designed in a way that it doesn't affect the amp itself and keeps it functional.
For the reference, I work for a loudspeaker manufacturer that integrated LCD screens in our powered loudspeakers since 15 years, they are used in professional large venues in rough conditions and it is not perceived as an element of failure.
Issues related to power supplies, Bluetooth or speaker cones failing are happening at a much higher rate than those related to LCD screens.
That seems to coincide with the amount of failures reported online about that line of Rumble amps ( I looked for a lot of them when I had issues), so I wouldn't let it discourage you from using it in live environment.

Personally, I would question the use of a Studio as a modelling head. I think it is great to be able to couple with another Rumble it if you have them both, but unless you plan on hauling the amp back home for practice every time, for the same price, I would look into a good FX modelling effect board with IR, unless you don't plan on travelling a lot with it.
In my case, I have the Stage 800 in my garage, next to my recording PC, I love using its effects and IRs while recording and I will commit to bring it to gigs outside. However when I go upstairs or anywhere else in my house for some quiet practice, I cannot bring my effects with me. Now I am contemplating getting a Studio just for that, but I am also considering a more portable solution, which Fender should really get on cramming their platform in a pedal/DI box.

Also I didn't ditch all my pedals for the effects from the Rumble. There are synths, distortions, envelope filters and compressors that was not able to replicate in the Rumble.

+1 on the footswitch for the Rumble, this is really how you will interact live with your presets to get the best out of the amp.

All great points, Diver. I think b should get the Studio even though it’s a number of pesos more. It’ll pay for itself in time if he begins using the features.

 

[iagtrplyr]

I never had a single issue with the LCD screen - However, I had HEAPS of trouble with the WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity. Like... 'I wanna tear the remaining hair on my balding head' - With loads of dropouts and trouble connecting.

However (!) this was all solved by switching to an Apple product, where all my before mentioned trouble went away. No idea if it was just my 3-4 android based products, their android versions or some weird 3rd option, but with Apple (Urgh...) the Studio 40 is now absolutely perfect!

Granted, at the moment it is getting some serious compitition from a Line 6 HX Stomp matched with a Headrush FR112 - But the Studio 40 is more than enough for home use (Heck, even if you start going through all the amp / cap / pedal options right now, I will bet you are still finding sweet tones by Christmas - The Studio / Stage are LOADED with sweet sounding tones).

Do yourself a favor though - Get the foot pedal. It opens up a whole new world - I like to start off by a basic guitar rythm and loop that, then switch to the bass and just go to town. All while you are streaming one of the millions of drum 'play-alongs' on Youtube.

NordicBard, let me invite you to the Combo Club to become one of its esteemed members. A photo of your combo and hearty hello is all you need to claim a number. We love to welcome new players and I think your insightful writing would add to the flavor of those presently in our club. Think about it!

 

[bhendrix]

Personally, I would question the use of a Studio as a modelling head. I think it is great to be able to couple with another Rumble it if you have them both, but unless you plan on hauling the amp back home for practice every time, for the same price, I would look into a good FX modelling effect board with IR, unless you don't plan on travelling a lot with it.

I agree, but alas my days of frequent - hell, even occasional, gigging are in the rear view - for the most part. Yes, if I was traveling it would make much more sense to use board effects. I get together will friends I've been playing with for over 25 years and it usually is a get together - jam - party type atmosphere. We do get stupidly loud from time to time and the R500c serves me well in that regard. If I get the Studio 40, it could become more of my jamming rig - down the road - as we mellow out....in our old age.... But the occasional hook-up with the 500c sounds fun!

 

[SoulReflection]

I agree, but alas my days of frequent - hell, even occasional, gigging are in the rear view - for the most part. Yes, if I was traveling it would make much more sense to use board effects. I get together will friends I've been playing with for over 25 years and it usually is a get together - jam - party type atmosphere. We do get stupidly loud from time to time and the R500c serves me well in that regard. If I get the Studio 40, it could become more of my jamming rig - down the road - as we mellow out....in our old age.... But the occasional hook-up with the 500c sounds fun!

You are a lucky man @bhendrix! I wish I could find some of my friends from my playing days but, sadly, it appears I have out-lived them. I have not given up hope though. I still look for some GOF's who want to relive the old days, even if we have to sit on chairs or stools in order to do so!

 

[bhendrix]

You are a lucky man @bhendrix! I wish I could find some of my friends from my playing days but, sadly, it appears I have out-lived them. I have not given up hope though. I still look for some GOF's who want to relive the old days, even if we have to sit on chairs or stools in order to do so!

Yes, I do feel lucky in that regard. Bandmates changed a bit over the journey, but have been lucky to have stayed connected with lead guitar player and drummer - we have a blast doing the power trio thing! We keep it instrumental - lots of endless jam - none of us can sing a lick! I've attempted several times, but MY brain can't handle lyrics counter to the melody, while playing bass - just does not compute. Prolly why I have SO much respect for those that can belt it out while driving the bus!

We plan on rocking til we drop! I hope you can get back into something where you live!

 

[iagtrplyr]

Go

I agree, but alas my days of frequent - hell, even occasional, gigging are in the rear view - for the most part. Yes, if I was traveling it would make much more sense to use board effects. I get together will friends I've been playing with for over 25 years and it usually is a get together - jam - party type atmosphere. We do get stupidly loud from time to time and the R500c serves me well in that regard. If I get the Studio 40, it could become more of my jamming rig - down the road - as we mellow out....in our old age.... But the occasional hook-up with the 500c sounds fun!

Go for it, bhendrix! It’s been fun you kicking buying the amp the past couple days, and if I could, I’d order you one right now and get it to ya in time for Father's Day.

Get theStudio 40 and enjoy it every time you play it. I’m sure we’ll get to that time period where a 40-watt Combo will take care of everything for ya.

 

[iagtrplyr]

You are a lucky man @bhendrix! I wish I could find some of my friends from my playing days but, sadly, it appears I have out-lived them. I have not given up hope though. I still look for some GOF's who want to relive the old days, even if we have to sit on chairs or stools in order to do so!

Soul Reflection, if you were in my neighborhood I would be happy to be one of your GOF band mates, but then we’d be fightin’ all the time deciding who was gonna play bass!

I just hope we can get back to some form of normalcy soon because I’m giving perhaps my best playing days to my music room. I hear ya, SR, about time slowly passing us by. It’s sad.

 

[SoulReflection]

Soul Reflection, if you were in my neighborhood I would be happy to be one of your GOF band mates, but then we’d be fightin’ all the time deciding who was gonna play bass!

I just hope we can get back to some form of normalcy soon because I’m giving perhaps my best playing days to my music room. I hear ya, SR, about time slowly passing us by. It’s sad.

No fighting...we could always flip a coin .