Comprehensive Summary of "A Little Debbie Swiss Roll" – Ep. 134 of The Truth About Vintage Amps with Skip Simmons
Released on May 29, 2024, episode 134 of The Truth About Vintage Amps podcast, hosted by Skip Simmons of The Fretboard Journal, offers an engaging deep dive into the intricate world of vintage tube amp repair, restoration, and collecting. This episode features insightful technical discussions, answers to listener queries, and a special guest appearance by Jonathan Stout, a former lawyer turned pre-Bebop jazz guitarist.
1. Vintage Amps on Skip's Bench
The episode kicks off with Skip showcasing some of the vintage amps currently under his care. At [06:11], he introduces the Electar Model M and a National Dobro amp from the 1930s, emphasizing their historical significance and unique characteristics.
"The Electar Model M, made by Nat Daniel for Epiphone, is one of the ones that were made by Nat Daniel for Epiphone... the very first two A3." [06:11]
Skip highlights the diversity among Electar Model M units, noting that each amp and its schematics can vary significantly, which adds to their allure and challenge in restoration.
2. Technical Deep-Dive: Understanding 2A3 Tubes
A significant portion of the discussion centers around the 2A3 tubes, revered in the high-fidelity audio community. Skip explains their origins and enduring value.
"The 2A3 came out in 1933 and was basically the original High Fidelity tube." [07:27]
He elaborates on the tubes’ construction and their coveted status among audiophiles, mentioning their use in early amplifier models and their lasting impact on sound quality.
3. Listener Q&A: Capacitor Installation Issues
The hosts address technical issues submitted by listeners, focusing first on a question from Bob in Bismarck, North Dakota about installing electrolytic capacitors incorrectly in a 5F 2A amp build.
"If you hook up a polarized thing backwards, its next place should be in the circular file, right?" [14:43]
Skip advises against using capacitors installed incorrectly, emphasizing the importance of proper orientation to prevent overheating and circuit damage. He also explains the function of coupling capacitors in preventing DC from passing through while allowing AC signals.
4. Special Guest Segment: Jonathan Stout’s Vintage Amp Challenges
Introducing the guest segment, Jonathan Stout shares his unique journey from law to jazz guitar. He discusses his reliance on vintage amps like the 1939 ES185 and 1937 ES150, expressing both admiration and frustration with their fragility and the scarcity of compatible field coil speakers.
"What is it about that field coil speaker that responds differently? Does the response of the electromagnet change as the signal changes?" [41:09]
Jonathan seeks Skip's expertise on the distinct sound characteristics of field coil speakers compared to modern permanent magnet speakers. Skip explains the dynamic nature of field coils, detailing how varying currents influence the electromagnet's behavior and, consequently, the speaker's response.
5. Exploring Field Coil Speakers
The discussion delves deeper into the mechanics and sonic differences of field coil speakers. Skip highlights their historical usage and the technical challenges involved in maintaining or replacing them.
"All speakers, all good speakers were field coil or electromagnet all through the 20s and 30s... Why does a field coil sound different? I don't know." [43:45]
He underscores the synergy between field coils and vintage amp circuits, noting that the dynamic adjustments in the electromagnets contribute to the unique tonal qualities favored by jazz musicians like Jonathan.
6. Community Interactions: Tips and Personal Stories
Beyond technical talk, the episode is peppered with community interactions and personal anecdotes. Listeners share recipes, such as Bob and Bismarck’s lemon honey lemonade, and discuss culinary preferences, adding a personable touch to the podcast.
"5 lemons, 3/4 cup of raw honey, a gallon of water... Adjust next batch to taste." [19:48]
Skip shares his enthusiasm for cooking tools like a pizza stone sent by listener Jeff Schick, blending lifestyle elements with the technical focus of the show.
7. Additional Listener Questions and Final Remarks
In the concluding segments, more listener questions are addressed. Dale from Kelso, WA inquires about the relationship between volume and tone controls in modifying a VHT Special 6 amp.
"What effect does the relationship of the volume placement to the tone circuit have on the sound and response of each pot?" [75:07]
Skip advises caution, recommending adhering to classic Fender schematics unless modifications are necessary, and encourages experimentation within safe parameters.
The episode wraps up with Skip and Jason reflecting on their enduring passion for vintage amps, the challenges of restoration, and the vibrant community surrounding them.
"I appreciate the fact that there's people who are still paying attention. I don't know why." [86:25]
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
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Skip Simmons on 2A3 Tubes:
"These are real Fender amps. You better prove to me that this capacitor is bad before you have to start asking me what you should replace it with." [28:36] -
Jonathan Stout on Field Coils:
"Does the response of the electromagnet change as the signal changes?" [41:09] -
Skip Simmons on Capacitor Installation:
"Just toss that thing and quit putting them in backwards." [14:43]
Conclusion
Episode 134, "A Little Debbie Swiss Roll", masterfully balances technical insights with community engagement, offering both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers valuable knowledge on vintage amp restoration and maintenance. The inclusion of a special guest enriches the dialogue, bridging legal expertise with musical passion. Skip Simmons and Jason Koons continue to foster a knowledgeable and passionate community, making The Truth About Vintage Amps a must-listen for guitar aficionados and amp collectors alike.
For those looking to dive deeper into the nuances of vintage amplifiers, this episode serves as an invaluable resource, blending expert advice with relatable stories and interactive listener participation.