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Repaired Amp question

randysmojo

randysmojo

Jan 14, 2008
1,073
28
51
Temple, TX
randybarnette.com
#1
I bought a mid 90's Ampeg SVT 3-Pro on an as-is basis for dirt cheap. Opened her up and found where someone else tried to fix some cold solder joints very badly and they had missed some, so I fix that up and clean/tightened everything up. Got her working no, but my question is how long would you suggest I run it and test it before trusting it to take to a gig and use? I don't have a back up amp so I really need to know this thing can be trusted.
 
#3
I really don't think there is anything left to be serviced on it. I had it on for two hours already without a problem. The reason I was going this route is because I can't afford much, which would include a bench few at a tech. I'm pretty sure I get her going steady, but just want to run her for a while to make sure. Would anyone think that after a few hours without a problem, it would probably be safe to bet it's solid?
 
#6
Phalex said:
Put it in the trunk of your car and drive around with it back there or a week or so. If it still works good, play it!
Click to expand...
IMO, that is the correct answer, since physical vibration is what's going to exacerbate problems related to cold solder joints. I might add take it out and check it once a day, i.e. play it long enough for it to come up to operating temperature, then shut it off and put it back in the trunk. (Just so you hit it with several thermal cycles.)
 
#7
craig.p said:
IMO, that is the correct answer, since physical vibration is what's going to exacerbate problems related to cold solder joints. I might add take it out and check it once a day, i.e. play it long enough for it to come up to operating temperature, then shut it off and put it back in the trunk. (Just so you hit it with several thermal cycles.)
Click to expand...

Genius!! Theoretical High Five!!
 
#10
It's still running like a champ. Put it in the band trailer and drove from San Antonio to Laredo, TX, about 3 1/2 hours of bangin' around in the trailer. Set it up at the gig long enough to warm it up and run it for a while and it sounded great! The bass player had just got his own rig setup how he wanted it so he went back to his, but at least he humored me and tried it out. I'm real happy with this one!!!
 

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