The Sushi Box FX Secret Society

[Sushi Box FX]

One suggestion: for those of us who have minimal experience doing surgery on pedal guts, it would be helpful to circle the section in your images (say in red) of the wire to disconnect, as well as circle in your images (using another color) the suggested area for reconnection of the disconnected wire.

Good note, I'll get that done and updated today.

 

[4Mal]

Is there enough oomph in a UA to Cleanly drive a power amp with 1.23 V input sensitivity ? The amp in question would be a QSC PLX-1602 or CX-502 or possible a 702 which only requires 1.14v ... The chances of me actually running any of those to full power is incredibly small...

and the answer is not really. It does drive the amp but not to anywhere near gig volume.

 

[XLunacy]

Is there enough oomph in a UA to Cleanly drive a power amp with 1.23 V input sensitivity ? The amp in question would be a QSC PLX-1602 or CX-502 or possible a 702 which only requires 1.14v ... The chances of me actually running any of those to full power is incredibly small...

and the answer is not really. It does drive the amp but not to anywhere near gig volume.

Please wait for someone more knowledgeable than me on this before doing anything : there should be a trimpot inside the pedal to increase the output voltage HOWEVER I keep reading that it is not to be messed with unless you're really careful and know exactly what you're doing, so that's the extent of my knowledge on the matter Don't give up on it yet !

Also the current version is much louder with the tone stack bypassed.

 

[Giff]

Where is the tone stack bypass switch on the UA? I don’t see mention of it on the website. Nor do I see one in any pictures.

 

[Sushi Box FX]

Please wait for someone more knowledgeable than me on this before doing anything : there should be a trimpot inside the pedal to increase the output voltage HOWEVER I keep reading that it is not to be messed with unless you're really careful and know exactly what you're doing, so that's the extent of my knowledge on the matter Don't give up on it yet !

Also the current version is much louder with the tone stack bypassed.

The trimpot inside the UA does not control the output voltage, it controls the output level, it's basically a Master volume attenuator. You can adjust that to your heart's content without risking any damage to the pedal whatsoever.

The trimpots for adjusting plate voltage to the tube were only on the mini-tube pedals and the early versions of the X-series pedals.

Where is the tone stack bypass switch on the UA? I don’t see mention of it on the website. Nor do I see one in any pictures.

Updating the website to include mention and images of the tonestack bypass (cryptically labeled "TS BP" on the pedal) is on my to-do list, I'll try to get it in the next day or two. Tonsetack bypass is a toggle switch on the face of the pedal right under the gain knob on the SMD version and right next to the bass knob on the HW version.

 

[Sushi Box FX]

Is there enough oomph in a UA to Cleanly drive a power amp with 1.23 V input sensitivity ? The amp in question would be a QSC PLX-1602 or CX-502 or possible a 702 which only requires 1.14v ... The chances of me actually running any of those to full power is incredibly small...

and the answer is not really. It does drive the amp but not to anywhere near gig volume.

1.23V sensitivity is low enough that I would expect UA to be able to handle it. Try turning the internal trimpot full clockwise and see if that helps. If not please let me know as something I can keep in mind.

 

[Giff]

1.23V sensitivity is low enough that I would expect UA to be able to handle it. Try turning the internal trimpot full clockwise and see if that helps. If not please let me know as something I can keep in mind.

Is this trimpot also present in the hand-wired version of UA?
Thank you!

 

[Sushi Box FX]

Is this trimpot also present in the hand-wired version of UA?
Thank you!

Yup, it's on both versions.

 

[Hasty]

Yup, it's on both versions.

Between the history of the mini tubes, different production versions, the diode bridge updates, and the trimpots... your company is in a unique position where you could probably benefit from a Sushi Box FX Wiki.

Because everyone like to hear they need to do things that require more work.

However in all seriousness, in a relatively short time you have developed an incredibly diverse stable of products with generational differences that make for interesting reading and conversation.

 

[NKBassman]

The "tourcation" was a best-of-all-worlds sort of thing: low-pressure gigs that subsidized kicking around several cities over the course of nine days with a lead who guaranteed us pay and also makes fun music and who is also cool asf. I'd never been to the Moog Music showroom, nor had I ever come across Delta-8 *ahem* items of psychedelic interest, nor had I been to an East Nashville sake bar that played vinyl records of artists like Anderson.Paak and Thundercat.

Sounds like my kind of trip. pun intended.

 

[NKBassman]

Mmkay, a couple quick things, because I don't like keeping secrets:

• SBVT II prototype has been wired up and sounds fabulous. I think the ultra hi and ultra lo switches are completely useless so I'm going to remove them as the EQ is flexible enough (in my opinion) without them. Also the biggest change I made was switching from the teeny tiny SMD inductors in the mids control circuit to much larger and more appropriately spec'd through-hole inductors, and lo and behold the mids selector makes a much more noticeable effect on the tone. So I'm going to get it boxed up as a prototype then find some unexpecting bassist in a back alley somewhere and force them to test it and let me know what they think

*resumes lurking in back alleys*

 

[4Mal]

I'm testing with my HW Space Heater. Contemplating the UA as with the tone stack switch I could defeat it when front ending my Alembic or engage when sending to FOH and taking an AUX back. Options... life is all about options and choices.

 

[fivestringgecko]

• SBVT II prototype has been wired up and sounds fabulous. I think the ultra hi and ultra lo switches are completely useless so I'm going to remove them as the EQ is flexible enough (in my opinion) without them. Also the biggest change I made was switching from the teeny tiny SMD inductors in the mids control circuit to much larger and more appropriately spec'd through-hole inductors, and lo and behold the mids selector makes a much more noticeable effect on the tone. So I'm going to get it boxed up as a prototype then find some unexpecting bassist in a back alley somewhere and force them to test it and let me know what they think.

Still lurking the back alleys of this thread as well... lol

I've been following the SVBT with interest as well, watching for an updated version(s) since the first one was announced. Like @NKBassman, I'll happily volunteer to test if you're in need.

I'd echo what others have said, I wouldn't ditch the Ultra Hi/Lo switches. I've never owned an SVT, but have had the opportunity to play a few variations of it that were provided as backline on gigs along with a few other various non-SVT Ampegs (that include my '74 V4B and PF-500), and have also found the Ultra switches handy. On the Ampegs I've had experience with, the Ultra switches can make a HUGE difference in the sound. I'm curious as to why you feel like those switches are useless?

Additionally, a lot of people "hear with their eyes" and might be turned off by not seeing those switches, even if they never use them. There are a couple bare bones Ampeg amps that don't have them of course, but I feel like those switches can be a big part of the Ampeg sound.

Just my $.02, of course.

5sg.

 

[all_sixes]

With the introduction of the Elementary, I'm not sure if I should go for an Elementary or a UA for my November order. I know everyone is just gonna say 'Get Both' and I very well may do that eventually, but it probably wont be for quite some time due to financial availability and board space. It will be utilized on a board that get's used for both bass and guitar.... Looking to put it early in the chain as a first gain stage before it goes into a Quad Cortex for everything else. I primarily play in an 80s tribute band covering tons of stuff from that era, but mostly rock-focused.

Thoughts?

 

[DrHooper]

With the introduction of the Elementary, I'm not sure if I should go for an Elementary or a UA for my November order. I know everyone is just gonna say 'Get Both' and I very well may do that eventually, but it probably wont be for quite some time due to financial availability and board space. It will be utilized on a board that get's used for both bass and guitar.... thoughts?

I don't have an Elementary (yet!), but I do have a DW and a UA. All the standard caveats apply: my rig, my basses, ymmv, etc. Relevant parts of the signal chain are MTD 535 or MM Stingray fretless for the most part > Accountant compressor, set to be a dirty boost > Jive, no diodes, gain up to get some mid grind, volume at just over unity > MBD2 > SV-Pre > UA > DW > Omnicomp > RFE > Aggie TH700 (lately just plugging into the FX return) > Acme or Avatar 2x10, or PJB 27. I'm using the three preamps in an 'either-or' configuration, i.e., not stacked.

I use the UA for more of a vintage, less modern tone. Gain up around noon, master at unity, bass and treble just north of noon, mids just backed off of max, maybe 4 o'clock. Gives me a warm, wooly, edge-of-breakup tone that doesn't get harsh or buzzy. Bottom end is just bloomy enough to feel expressive. Enough mids to be articulate, but well 'sat' in the mix. Still running the stock JJ 12AX7. It responds well to either of my two boosts; the Accountant adds its own distortion, that blends really well with the mild overdrive of the UA; the Jive just adds more body, and pushes the tube a little harder. The UA also tames the brightness from the MBD2, and the added Depth from the MBD can add a lot (sometimes too much) billowy bottom.

I'm running the DW for more of a modern clean sound. Big round bottom, clean glassy highs. It's very present. I swapped V1 for a 5751, and may go to a 12AU7 there, and move the 5751 to V2; there is a lot of volume available. Gain is at 9, Master at unity, Bass and Treble around noon, mids about 3. Also responds well to the boosts and MBD2, though with the gain low, it doesn't break up much. The MBD2 can be a bit strident, but a twist of the tone knob fixes that. My guitar player (an absolute tone hound) was really impressed with my tone on an R&B tune (Lizzo - About Damn Time) we just started doing. I think the DW fits that really well.

The SV-Pre is for all the mid-boosted, grindy stuff.

With these three preamps, plus the Aggie preamp, (when it gets used), gives me just about any tone I could need.

So, yeah, buy 'em both

 

[DrHooper]

Just wanted to add: Personally, I would look to add the tube pre in one of the effects loops of the Quad, so you could potentially drive it with boosts/OD etc. They really do shine when pushed, better than any other OD/Drive/distortion or preamp I've used.

 

[Derek Williams]

With the introduction of the Elementary, I'm not sure if I should go for an Elementary or a UA for my November order. I know everyone is just gonna say 'Get Both' and I very well may do that eventually, but it probably wont be for quite some time due to financial availability and board space. It will be utilized on a board that get's used for both bass and guitar.... Looking to put it early in the chain as a first gain stage before it goes into a Quad Cortex for everything else. I primarily play in an 80s tribute band covering tons of stuff from that era, but mostly rock-focused.

Thoughts?

I use a Dr Wattson (or whichever flavour of preamp I'm into on the day) in one of the FX loops on my QC. Works great.

 

[all_sixes]

Just wanted to add: Personally, I would look to add the tube pre in one of the effects loops of the Quad, so you could potentially drive it with boosts/OD etc. They really do shine when pushed, better than any other OD/Drive/distortion or preamp I've used.

Good to know! I've got a Pork Loin and an SSBS Mini taking up both loops separately, but maybe I can get away with changing some of that up or putting them together in one loop to free up the other. The Mini is kind of in a testing phase anyways since I just got it. Sounds like based on what you're saying, the SushiBox would be best after all that jazz as opposed to early in the chain like I was planning?

The general consensus that the DW/Elementary have a nice full and clear sound is what is drawing me a bit towards it, but I've always had my eyes on the UA since it was introduced..... Hence the pickle I'm in.

 

[bassbrad]

@all_sixes both flavors are good choices but in my ear the UA is the more versatile choice for bass as is has a bit more depth and clarity especially the HW version & can deliver about as much grind and snarl as the DW/E. Plus I love the way the UA and HWUA treat my other effects especially my dirty deeds.

 

[Sushi Box FX]

Between the history of the mini tubes, different production versions, the diode bridge updates, and the trimpots... your company is in a unique position where you could probably benefit from a Sushi Box FX Wiki.

Because everyone like to hear they need to do things that require more work.

However in all seriousness, in a relatively short time you have developed an incredibly diverse stable of products with generational differences that make for interesting reading and conversation.

A reasonable suggestion, I'll definitely consult with the resident Sushi Box historian (myself) and start jotting down what I think should be in there, I will of course be open to suggestions.

This thread, and as a result the Secret Society, will be two years old this Sunday, and by my records I've sold close to a thousand pedals in that time. This is mind boggling to think about, so I try not to. Being a one-man operation running this in my basement during my free time isn't always an ideal business setup, but it has allowed me to make changes more quickly than I would be able to as a big corporation. The result being someone buying a pedal today wouldn't even recognize the products that I was releasing two years ago, and someone two years ago would be shocked by what I'm releasing today.

I'm continually proud of what I've been able to achieve, and I credit the fine folks of the Secret Society, Talkbass in general, and bassists as a whole with how much I've been able to grow. I've always tried to do cool things and give people what they want, and that's what I'll continue to do as long as I am able (which will hopefully be a good long time).

Still lurking the back alleys of this thread as well... lol

I've been following the SVBT with interest as well, watching for an updated version(s) since the first one was announced. Like @NKBassman, I'll happily volunteer to test if you're in need.

I'd echo what others have said, I wouldn't ditch the Ultra Hi/Lo switches. I've never owned an SVT, but have had the opportunity to play a few variations of it that were provided as backline on gigs along with a few other various non-SVT Ampegs (that include my '74 V4B and PF-500), and have also found the Ultra switches handy. On the Ampegs I've had experience with, the Ultra switches can make a HUGE difference in the sound. I'm curious as to why you feel like those switches are useless?

Additionally, a lot of people "hear with their eyes" and might be turned off by not seeing those switches, even if they never use them. There are a couple bare bones Ampeg amps that don't have them of course, but I feel like those switches can be a big part of the Ampeg sound.

Just my $.02, of course.

5sg.

I'll check over the design to make sure I implemented the ultra high and ultra low switches as they were in the original schematic, but to my ears they just didn't sound better. The ultra high switch is subtle to the point that I don't hear a difference whether its on or off. For the ultra low switch I tried a three-way switch like the original, so you have normal, low cut, and ultra low. Normal sounds great. Absolutely excellent. It definitely has what I consider the SVT "growl". Low cut mode sounds completely anemic. My exact words when I tried it were "yuck, I don't like that one." Wit the low cut on there was absolutely no setting I was able to find that made it sound good. With the ultra low there was a very audible accentuation of the bass and a huge drop in highs and upper-mids, but the drop in gain was so immense that it becomes impossible to get a grindy growl out of it even with gain dimed. There's a similar drop in gain in Slampegg with the ultra low switch, but this is way worse than that.

So I'll double check my schematic against the original tomorrow and make sure I did it right, as we've had plenty of evidence over the past two years that I am not perfect, but as-is I can't imagine a situation where any position of the switches besides "normal" is useful at all and I would much prefer to leave off switches off rather than offer options of how to make the pedal sound worse.

With the introduction of the Elementary, I'm not sure if I should go for an Elementary or a UA for my November order. I know everyone is just gonna say 'Get Both' and I very well may do that eventually, but it probably wont be for quite some time due to financial availability and board space. It will be utilized on a board that get's used for both bass and guitar.... Looking to put it early in the chain as a first gain stage before it goes into a Quad Cortex for everything else. I primarily play in an 80s tribute band covering tons of stuff from that era, but mostly rock-focused.

Thoughts?

If you're looking for something that will be used on both bass and guitar I would probably recommend Elementary. UA is excellent and (in my incredibly biased opinion) hard to beat as a clean preamp for bass, but I find Dr. Wattson (and thereby Elementary) to have a more useful range of tones for guitar.

There are still 19 slots open for October open, I haven't closed ordering yet as I was hoping to get a few more orders in. I'll probably close on the 7th again so I can get parts orders placed, so you still have a few more days to get in on the October batch.