• TalkBass has been independent since 1998. Add your voice.
    Create a free account to reply to discussions, view embedded media, and browse with fewer display ads.
    Join free Log in
    Want zero display ads or expanded classifieds tools? Compare plans.

Mesa 400+ EQ issues

EthanTheHeathen

EthanTheHeathen

Aug 25, 2004
539
11
Twin Cities, MN
#1
Since I got my Bass 400+ a couple years ago, it's had problems with the EQ. I'll have the EQ switched on, and out of nowhere the signal will almost completely cut out (you can hear the bass VERY faintly). If I switch off the EQ it works fine, so the problem must be some connection within the EQ circuit. Then the next time I use it it may work fine, or it may not. Sometimes if I crank the volume and play hard it gets itself going again, suggesting that there's a loose connection.

I've had a good local repair guy look at it a few times, but since it's so unpredictable he's never gotten the problem nailed down. He's replaced the switch and checked all the connections to no avail. I'm going to have it checked out again to see if some of the connections to the switch are causing the problem, but first I wanted to ask you all if you've ever had the same problem, and if so, what the hell is the problem? This has been driving me crazy for a long time. The amp sounds good without the EQ, but sounds amazing with it.

Also, I'm wondering if anyone has modified their 400+ by adding a volume control on the EQ (SVT-2 pros have this). If so, where in the circuit would you add it, and what value would the pot be? Is it any more complicated than this? I have a footswitch for the EQ, and it's kind of a bummer that there's such a volume boost when it's kicked in. I could turn down all the sliders to get lower volume, but this is a pain, and I'm not sure it would sound the same anyway.

Thanks in advance for any help you can give,

Ethan
 
#3
I had a problem with the EQ on mine a while ago when it was new, can't remember exactly what it was but something similar. Anyway, it turns out the amp had been dropped in transit at some stage and the EQ board was not sitting straight or flush. It all had to be straightened out, I suspect the mounts had become a problem - anyway , no problem since. Can't see any real point to volume modding the EQ - I seldom use the graphic anyway, and if I do it is as quick kick in for a solo which is fine as it is - (horror - bass solo! read excuse for other band members to take a leak or have a drink).
 
#5
I could skip the EQ, but unfortunately, I really like it. It's easier to get the edge I like with the EQ.

As for the mod, I know it's not crucial, but it would be really handy for the way I'd like to use the amp, footswitching between EQ and no EQ.

xshawnxearthx: what do you mean when you say that I could get "a list" from Mesa?
 
#7
EthanTheHeathen said:
I could skip the EQ, but unfortunately, I really like it. It's easier to get the edge I like with the EQ.

As for the mod, I know it's not crucial, but it would be really handy for the way I'd like to use the amp, footswitching between EQ and no EQ.

xshawnxearthx: what do you mean when you say that I could get "a list" from Mesa?
Click to expand...

A list of service centers to get it looked at . . .

- Tim
 

Latest posts

Top Bottom
Back