2203 with 2 power tubes

[michael_dba]

Was searching for a post on this, I know I've seen at least ones but I could not find them.

When removing two of the power tubes from a 2203, do I need to re-bias to half or double? Is the impedance selection affected....doubled or halved?

Any major changes in tone?

[surfnorthwest]

IMO doing that will only net you little less volume and you will lose what makes the 2203 a good amp. You can remove the two outer tubes but if you are doing it because the amp is to loud then sell it and get one that will suit you better. IMO you gain nothing by doing this and stand to lose the tone the amp was designed to give you.

What do you hope to gain by doing this?

[michael_dba]

The idea was to score an un-modded 2203 at a good price, which is cheaper than the 2204 I wanted. Then try to use the 2203 like the 2204. I'd like to be able to keep the master vol at least halfway up.

I have a modded 2204, previously owned by Daniel Lanoise, allegedly, but I think it was modded to sound more early JMP-like. Sounds great, but not as bright as an original 2204. It's tone and clarity makes it a keeper for me tho.

[surfnorthwest]

My advice is to go ahead and try it and see what you think, don't need to rebias to try it.

There are a lot of mods for a 2203, my friend Curt Granger would be a good one to discuss your amp with and see what he can do to achieve what you want.
http://grangeramp.com/contact.php

I still hold you should kick yourself in the ass, sell it and look for the 2204 you want. There maybe someone who would trade you straight away.

[michael_dba]

I hear ya....an unmodded 2204 it is then. Just pondering the idea of making a 2203 work out. They seem ot be selling cheaper these days.....and easier to find.

[Ritchie]

Also if you do pull two tubes you need to set your impedance selector to half of what your cab is.