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ok don't laugh... dumb question before I buy cables?

M

mixedmindz

Dec 26, 2013
6
0
#1
I've been playing some bass lately, not on stage or anthing, always through PreAmp/PC/Monitor/Sub setup.
I got a 'too good' deal on a VOX 2x12 combo. I think its an AC15. I've been using that with my bass alot now. (I know it's not a 'bass amp' but it's what I've got and I think it sounds great) It's also my first tube amp.
So if I plug in a line level source to a tube amp what happens?
is this ok to try?
[I have a habit of learning the hard way that I'm trying to break]
thank you
-MM-
 
#2
I ask be cause I have a Rane DC24(from an old pa) that I heard alot of bassists use.
I want to go. Bass->Pre->Compressor->Amp
(amp has no line out)

any tips for the DC24 also appriciated although I guess that should be in a different thread.
thanks!
 
#3
Does it have an FX loop? Would be safer there.

Really, if you plug a line level, it will overdrive without adding gain with the gain knob (maybe... Might just overdrive sooner). You should lower the output on the compressor (assuming it's a rack comp with full controls?)

Also, when playing bass through guitar amps, careful. The amp will be fine. The speakers might not. They will be fine at lower volumes, but the low fundamentals of a bass can rip apart speakers that are voiced for higher instruments. A low E is like what, 42Hz or something?

That doesn't always stop at a 0-crossing (when the amplitude of the wave is at +/-0) so the sudden clicking and popping I think is what can rip the cone. Also, bass speakers have higher x-max (distance that it's able to move)

I think if you put 12" bass speakers in there (impedance matched) you should be safe if you really like the tone of bass through vox ac. I've seen it done before (studio sessions, not necessarily at stage volumes)
 
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#4
That. You beat me to it.

IIRC it's an open-back design, so even with bass speakers you might flap them all to pieces. You need to very careful with (A) the input signal slamming the front end of the amp too hard and (B) shredding speakers, even if you replace them with bass drivers due to the cab being open back. If the amp isn't open, you nay just choke bass speakers and get crap results.
 
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#5
I think it is open, but I haven't known that to be a problem, at least with a 4 string, but I'm not familiar with festival gig volumes (studio guy mainly).

Basically, you're safe to fool around with it tonight, but don't crank it. It's not safe. It will blow something - maybe not in the first 4 seconds, but maybe in the 5th so it's better to just leave the gain and volume on 1.

Let us know how it sounds, at least?
 
#6
Yeah, it's not the amp itself that's at risk, it's the speakers.

An open-back cab is bad even for bass speakers, playing bass through it.

As to the line level question, you'd just have to lower the output on the comp and lower the input gain on the amp. Unless you love overdrive. Then whatever, I guess.
 
#11
Memories! The VOX AC15 was the first amp that I ever yearned for. At the time it hosted a 15" driver. I was 16 at the time and that was 52 years ago. <sigh> I hate getting' old!! :(

You will be OK as long as you don't try to push the system too far. Home practice is one thing, trying to gig it would lead to its demise. The amp itself would be fine but your speakers would be toast.
 
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#13
mixedmindz said:
I got a 'too good' deal on a VOX 2x12 combo......I've been using that with my bass alot now. (I know it's not a 'bass amp' but it's what I've got and I think it sounds great) It's also my first tube amp.
-MM-
Click to expand...
That didn't stop Chris Squire from using a couple! :thumbsup:

Chris Squire - The Syn '60s 01.jpg
 

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