Two questions about THD Hot Plate

[whitewave]

I'm using and loving this attenuator. The questions are:

1- can I switch to different attenuations without switching to stand by mode the amp? Is it unsafe? Even the "load" one?

2- what about using the line out for a tuner? It can be used there? So I could set the attenuator to "load" while tuning and then begin to play.

Thanks.

[michael patrick]

1. Yep, no problem switching while you are playing.

2. The signal the HP puts out of the line out jack is pretty hot, but I suppose it would work if you back off the level control. I just wonder if the tuner will give you a good read with a distorted post-amp signal???

[John Phillips]

IMO you should not switch settings on ANY attenuator while actually playing, though you don't have to put the amp on standby either - just stop playing.

Read the "blown fuse problem with a Marshall Super Lead" thread if you want to know what could happen. That was with a Marshall Powerbrake, but in any attenuator, operating the switch will cause a momentary jump in the load seen by the amp. Maybe not a lot, but if the amp is running hard, it will cause a flyback voltage spike... which is exactly what can damage tubes, OTs or other parts. Maybe not all amps will be harmed, or even any of them most of the time, but it's still a risk.

It's fine if you're not playing though, since no (or not much) current is going to the attenuator, so it won't cause a spike. It's also OK to turn the 'continuous' type of control like the Hotplate's low-volume knob, since that doesn't cause the same sort of jump in impedance.

[whitewave]

Yes, I have only two hands, I can't play and swith the hot plate!

Stop playing and move the HP, that's all.
My amp is a Ceriatone 1986.

I'll try about the tuner, if it works I can save money not buying a TU-2.

Thanks.