So ... I was wondering if amplifiers sound different depending if they're running at 110 (i.e. US) or UK (i.e. 230/240v).
Now, I know they use different transformers configurations (either physically different units, or taking out another set of wires from the winding; which would impact performance to a degree), but are there big differences?
Logically if the transformer was "ideal/perfect" then it wouldn't matter, but given there's a really big interaction with transformers, valves and general headroom etc. (including things like valve rectifiers), is there a big difference?
It got me thinking these kinds of questions:
1. Does a certain amp sound the same on either side of the atlantic (all other things being equal). So let's say a JCM800 2203 on US voltage vs running on UK voltage
2. How different would it sound running on a high-grade transformer. Could you duplicate the sound in the US in from the UK (assuming the answer to my first question is that yes, they do sound different).
Hard to test I imagine ...
Given lots of well known tracks have been used well known amps, and people try to duplicate the recorded tone ... does it matter on the voltage of the mains?
Rambling question I know ... thanks in advance!
Comments
Studio: https://www.voltperoctave.com
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Me: https://www.jamesrichmond.com
"Take these three items, some WD-40, a vise grip, and a roll of duct tape. Any man worth his salt can fix almost any problem with this stuff alone." - Walt Kowalski
"Only two things are infinite - the universe, and human stupidity. And I'm not sure about the universe." - Albert Einstein
A mains transformer does not supply power on a continuous basis. Rather it delvers pulses of current for a small part of each cycle to keep the res cap "topped up".
So, since the windings are effectively disconnected for 75%ish of the time it is hard to see how it could influence the sound? AND! Don't forget that mainS could be 230V or 10% up or down on that and other countries are even worse! Adds fuel to my hobby horse (there's a mixed one IF you like!) that peeps CLAIM all sorts of boooteeeky things about amps but nobody EVER measures F.A!
MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!
Dave.
He goes through a very clean power conditioner that supplies 120v at 60 HZ.
"Take these three items, some WD-40, a vise grip, and a roll of duct tape. Any man worth his salt can fix almost any problem with this stuff alone." - Walt Kowalski
"Only two things are infinite - the universe, and human stupidity. And I'm not sure about the universe." - Albert Einstein
So I suspect it's for consistency and reliability as SquireJapan says.
"Take these three items, some WD-40, a vise grip, and a roll of duct tape. Any man worth his salt can fix almost any problem with this stuff alone." - Walt Kowalski
"Only two things are infinite - the universe, and human stupidity. And I'm not sure about the universe." - Albert Einstein
No.
And I hope I'm not misleading anyone, I should probably watch it again, I'm just going from memory.