HELPFUL HINTS: (Continued)
6.) When the Footswitch is not available or desired, use the Front Panel mini toggle to select the two channels.
7.) The Front Panel OUTPUT and SOLO controls are not active until the Effects Loop is switched to the LOOP ACTIVE position. Use the Channel MASTER controls for output volume level when the LOOP is set to HARD BYPASS.
8.) As with all MESA amplifi ers, the LONE STAR controls really work and are extremely powerful. You will fi nd most of the best sounds will be produced by setting the controls in their middle ranges, and very rarely higher than 3:00.The balance between them is the important part and they are most interactive when no one dominates the mix. Adhering to this scheme will avoid excessive tube noise and possible microphonic preamp tube problems.
9.) Use the LOW power setting on the A.C. POWER switch in combination with the TUBE RECTIFIER TRACKING selection on the Rear Panel to achieve the best soft clip characteristics when searching for vintage inspired sounds.
10.) When connecting your processing to the Effects Loop follow these steps; 1. Set up your two Channels for the desired sounds 2. Balance the volume of the Channels with the Channel Masters 3. Connect your processor Input to the Effects Loop SEND 4. Connect processor Output to the Return 5. Activate Effects Loop (LOOP ACTIVE) 6. Set processor Input Level control for unity gain (0db) 7. Adjust the overall Effects Loop SEND LEVEL control to fi ne tune the processors Input signal. 8. Adjust overall playing volume with the LONE STAR’s Front Panel OUTPUT control.
11.) If you are using the amplifi er with both Channels set to the 50 watt output setting, try connecting an 8 ohm load to the 4 ohm jack. This scheme provides a brighter, snappier response and is preferable for certain styles.
12.) When swapping from the stock quartet of 6L6 output tubes to EL34, always check the BIAS SWITCH. Make sure it is set to match the tube type in use. Failure to do this may cause damage to your amplifier!
13.) It is possible to install a quartet of 6V6 power tubes to achieve a lower overall power rating and a looser, breathier power feel. Make sure you set the A.C. POWER switch to low when using these tubes and keep the BIAS SWITCH set for 6L6 operation. It is also advisable to load the amplifi er with an 8 Ohm speaker load on the 4 Ohm jack. This scheme provides the best response while at the same time reducing stress on the tubes. Try the settings below to audition a couple of possible ways to setup the two channels.
SAMPLE #1. Sparkling Clean / Singing Lead |
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| 100 W |
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INPUT |
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DRIVE | CLEAN | GAIN | TREBLE | MID | BASS | PRESENCE | MASTER |
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FT.SW | 100 W |
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SAMPLE #2. Roots Clean / Old School Clip |
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INPUT |
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FT.SW |
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Now let’s move on to understanding the individual controls and their interactive roles in shaping the sounds you want to hear.
PAGE 3
