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HOTONE MP-100 Ampero

#63
Got the Ampero a couple days ago. It's really well made, perfect size and has some really cool sounds, effects models etc.

But I either got a unit with an issue or it's just the way they are. I did get a demo model for 10% off from Sweetwater but they are better than any about testing things usually. Don’t think I’ll try another. I’ve heard similar things in old dying digital gear so not confident in the longevity of it now.

So here are the issues. After I noticed these I didn't delve any further into the unit.


1:there is a noticeable clipping noise that sounds like a compressor set too aggressively with a slow decay. It does this even when no effects or amp models are enabled. I've lowered the input level in Ampero, lowered the level on my bass, tried 3 basses and it's always there. Tried output levels too. The noise can be heard from all outputs. When I hit notes with a second or two of rest between then every note clips. When I play several notes quickly only the first note clips. I'm quite adept at these issues and I'm certain it's not just a setting. This is demonstrated in the first part of the recording

2:when I let a note ring out softly there are strange digital noises along with the ringing note, sometimes overpowering the note.

Here's a quick recording: Ampero noises.wav
 
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#65
brstma said:
Got the Ampero a couple days ago. It's really well made, perfect size and has some really cool sounds, effects models etc.

But I either got a unit with an issue or it's just the way they are. I did get a demo model for 10% off from Sweetwater but they are better than any about testing things usually. Don’t think I’ll try another. I’ve heard similar things in old dying digital gear so not confident in the longevity of it now.

So here are the issues. After I noticed these I didn't delve any further into the unit.


1:there is a noticeable clipping noise that sounds like a compressor set too aggressively with a slow decay. It does this even when no effects or amp models are enabled. I've lowered the input level in Ampero, lowered the level on my bass, tried 3 basses and it's always there. Tried output levels too. The noise can be heard from all outputs. When I hit notes with a second or two of rest between then every note clips. When I play several notes quickly only the first note clips. I'm quite adept at these issues and I'm certain it's not just a setting. This is demonstrated in the first part of the recording

2:when I let a note ring out softly there are strange digital noises along with the ringing note, sometimes overpowering the note.

Here's a quick recording: Ampero noises.wav
Click to expand...

jimfist said:
Did you try reinstalling firmware?
Click to expand...
Looks like there are several updates on their website? I would follow @jimfist suggestion.
I'm really looking forward to your review as I've been interested in this unit as you know.
Best wishes,
Brent
 
#66
BrentSimons said:
Looks like there are several updates on their website? I would follow @jimfist suggestion.
I'm really looking forward to your review as I've been interested in this unit as you know.
Best wishes,
Brent
Click to expand...

I didn't reinstall firmware but I did do the factory reset but no change. Firmware is already the newest version and don't want to risk not being able to return it.

I never connected to my Mac or installed the editor app. Just used it standalone
 
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#68
I've had various experiences with Sweetwater and they've been very helpful in resolving problems. I'd engage the Sweetwater staff for help. You got a demo model for starters, and I'd be willing to bet that Sweetwater would be fine with you doing a clean install of firmware. This is quite different than a factory reset, which will not resolve any issues due to possibly corrupted firmware. I wouldn't think that it would void any warranty, and I'm sure Sweetwater would rather you keep your gear than deal with sending it back to them. Just my 2 cents
 
#74
Just picked up one of these units and uploaded most recent V3.7 firmware. Nice amount of flexibility, clean sound with very little noise.

Really good things:
Can move order of effect blocks since V2 firmware. Limited number of blocks and no effects loop, but I don't use a ultra-processed sound. Mainly just for compressor/ampsim/cabinetsim/headphone amp.
Can set gain on unbalanced and balanced outputs seperately - instrument level to amp and line level to desk/recorder.
Can turn off cab sim on right and left channels seperately - send one to amp and the other to desk/recorder.
Can send dry and post signals on USB through right and left channels seperately.
Good headphone amp.

Would like:
Input and output level displays.
 
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#78
It's Hot tone. Everything I've seen says the order of FX can be changed. I want one because of: price, XLR outs, PC editing software, and, most importantly, the ground lift. I tried a Line 6 Pod Go and loved it but it had the nost obnoxious ground loop hum and picked up nasty computer noise if it was connected to the audio interface. Even if the power strip the interface is plugged into was turned off, the noise still got into the amp. Tried 2 units, same. So, very disappointing. Strange because I have a Boss ME-80 and Digitech BP355 that have no issues, connected to the same interface plus amps.
I play/record guitar & bass, so this seems very useful. It's $360 on Amazon right now. Might have to wait til I get paid next month, tho.
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