Having a Master volume fitted to a 1987x Marshall

[Victory10202]

Hi All

I recenlty managed to get hold of a 1987x Re Issue for a really great price , while its an incredible amp its just too loud. I was wondering about having a Post Phase Master Volume fitted and how much it would affect the tone. I was also considering using an attenuator but thought the master volume might do a better job at controlling the overall output.

So whats your opinions of having a master volume fitted ? good or bad idea.

Many Thanks , Much appreciated.

[frank9310]

It's an ok idea if you want to get the preamp tube overdrive going. I did it to a JTM 45 and worked great using the Lar Mar PPIMV which I believe is the same one Steve used to develop the Vintage Modern amp. What it won't do though is give you power tube saturation like an attenuator will. I actually use both now because I run my Vintage Modern 2246 100 watt head on 8 to get the power tube saturation cooking but my detail and body at around 11 am so this is comparable to kind or running the 1987 with the normal and bright channels turned way up but the master down low. I'm getting less preamp tube distortion and more power tube distortion.

However, that may be too loud for some venues, so I'll then run a Marshall Power Brake and drop it down by 3-6db which puts me right were I need to be.

You could probably get away with just using the MV though without the attenuator. Make sure to use the Lar/Mar MV as found on the metroamp.com forum and they also sell the kit there in their store for about $10. You can see how I did the mod with my reissue PCB board here http://areyouexperienced.net/Marshall-J ... e-Mods.htm

God luck!

Check out this clip of a guy who did it to a Super 100 Bass. Sounds fantastic as does his playing!

[youtube][/youtube]

[mety]

I have a PPI Master Volume fitted to my 50 watt JMP (A 1987 made in 1974).
I have it fitted to one of the speaker output jacks, so I can remove it and put the amp back to normal if I ever need to.
These amps are LOUD as you know, so I use the MV to bring it down to a more ear-friendly level.
I used to use an attenuator set at one notch down from maximum volume, this MV does the job very well and gives me a bit more control.
Its great for live playing, I'm not sure how it will work for bedroom players though.

I recommend it.

[Victory10202]

Thanks guys , much appreciated. Will have one fitted shortly.

[frank9310]

Yeah one nice thing about the Lar/Mar PPIMV is if when you turn it to 10 it takes it completely out of the circuit.