Cool...I wasn't trying to be a jerk (I can do that w/out tryingslash81291 wrote:Sorry!!
I wanted to build an amp, for the experiance, to learn more about them, to be able to service them, to have a good quality (contruction) bomb proof PTP amp. To use new parts, avoid getting an amp used off the internet that I cannot test.
I have soldering equipment, and can solder PCBs, and stuff, I do not know much about lead dress in amps, and stuff, but through all the build logs I see that have been commended, I think I could build an amp with equal quality. I am pretty good with DIY projects.
The tone I am trying to go for is Nuno Bettencourt's tone in Population 1 and Dramagods. He uses a JMP 2203, so I figured it would be the one to clone! My budget max is ~$1300.
I never really played a good example of an amp with a PPIMV, or a NMV cranked, so I went with the 2204/2203 just because of Nuno/suggestions from people on other forums.
) but it really helps to know where you're coming from in order to be able to make good suggestions.If you're wanting to build a better quality amp and aren't specifically out to save a bunch of money I'd think building one yourself might be a great way to go assuming you're willing to attempt everything on your own including building and tolexing the head box. -I mean, those are what...$300 alone?
The NMV and 2204/2203 are different beasts and from what you're saying it sounds like you should go for the 2204/03 route...I wouldn't dismiss the PPIMV mod though. I'm sure others more familiar w/ the 2204 can give you better and more specific advice (I personally like NMV's) but the "master volume" on a 2204 doesn't really function as a true "master volume" in my opinion.
Really? There must be a bunch of luck going around then!!toner wrote:You're not going to find a great used 2203 for $1300 unless you get lucky, IMO.
Seriously, there are TONS of Marshall bargains out there right now if you search Craigslist, your local classifieds, and even fleabay. I just did a search on fleabay and found a reissue 100W plexi (that could have been rewired to 2204 specs) that sold for under $700 and looked perfect. There were other amps both 100 and 50W MV types...some even late 70's early 2203's that were going for under $1000 easy. Yeah, you might have to put a couple hundred bucks into them to get them where you want them but deals CAN be had on those amps.
I just helped a friend fix up a 2203 that was working (sort of
) albeit modded (with an extra preamp tube) and he paid $900 for it AND a 4x12 cabinet w/ greenbacks!! $100 in parts total and it's working and sounding good.I don't think anything could beat a handwired Metro kit but you could probably easily save some money by buying a "project" head and modding it with parts from the Metro store. -Just my 2 cents...FWIW.
Now you're talkin' !!slash81291 wrote: I think I need to build 2 amps guys. Alot of people say there is no point, but these 2 amps just plain rock! I think I need something along the lines of a plexi to use as a lighter gain/looser crunch, then the 2203 for my tighter/heavier/gainier stuff.
