Crate Palomino V32 [Archive]

wutnot

05-13-2005, 10:46 AM

Hello all... I am brand new to this forum and just want to say, that I enjoy reading all of your posts. Most I find very informative, plus I like to hear people opinions.
I own an American Fender Strat Deluxe Plus. I was previously playing out of a SS Fender Princeton Chorus. (any over drive sounds better, but the clean was very good IMO)
I just bought a Crate Palomino V32, $549. It sounds great. It was between the Fender Hot Rod Deville and the V32. Although the Fenders clean may have be a bit better cause of the awesome reverb fender's possess, I thought the V32's was at the same level and sounded unique. The over drive in the V32 is what sold me. I found the Devilles OD to be borderline BAD and I would have lived with a pedal, but if I dont have to, why should I.
I have not heard lots of amps to be fair comparing OD's, but I thought the V32 sounded like a Marshalls. I bet the JCM 800 and 2000's blow it out of the water, but for what I like I thought the V32 was perfect.
Being a Class A amp this thing runs a bit hot, prob cause of the idle levels they have. I am hoping the heat doesnt wind up making shorter life out of the tubes which are auto biased.
The clean and OD share EQ's, but I have found for my settings, that switching didnt need re-adjusting of EQ's. I am used to a dial for presence, this has a button which is ok cause it doesnt get too glassy. The boost function is cool too, just seem to make things louder. Manual says, BOOST-increases output by 10db at 900hz to add more middle punch. PRESENCE- increases output level of high freq of 8db at 10kHz.
It is very sturdy and well constructed. I like the beige look with gold trim, also the wicker look front is cool. LIght weight at 44LB. One 12" speaker Celestion, and it has groove tubes in it.((4) 12AX7A and (2) EL84).
Overall I am real happy with this purchase. I find the tone amazing and am estatic that I found a great clean and OD in one amp. Sorry for the long post, thanks for the time reading.

EdMan57

05-13-2005, 11:51 PM

Hey wutnot,welcome aboard!Yes,I agree that the V-Series 30 watt cathode-biased amp sounds and feels really good.I have had my V-Series V30H [the head version of your amp] for only a short time now and I love it.My V30H sounds especially sweet through my Celestion Classic Lead 80 loaded 2-12 Carvin cabinet.I believe that if the V-Series stuff were put out by Marshall or Fender that there would be a major buzz about the line.For what it's worth,I also own [and love] tube amps made by Mesa/Boogie [MKIIC+],Sundown [A-50] and Bedrock [1600 and 600 combo].In my humble opinion,the V30 more than holds it's own with those other quality amplifiers.
Ed

Teleman

05-14-2005, 06:54 AM

I was with a friend of mine last month and we stopped into a GC to get some strings. There was a nice LP on the wall and he took it down to try. He ended up plugging into a Crate Palmino V32. Then he played a strat through it, and a tele, and a PRS.
He then bought the amp on the spot which for him is out of character as he over analyzes every purdhase he make.
A the checkoput he kept saying "I can't believe I'm buying a crate."

Anyway, it has replaced his Mesa Lonestar as his main gigging amp to the point where he has the Mesa up for sale. Even the Marshalls he owns have not been out on a gig since he bought it.
To make a long story short it is a good sounding amp that surely falls into the good "Bang for the Buck" category.

joek86

05-14-2005, 07:44 AM

I just picked one up this week too! So far I am really surprised and impressed by this amp! I am wondering how the tone would differ with the optional Tone Tubby speaker that Crate puts in? Anyone with TT experience in a EL84 amp please chime in!

Joe

wutnot

05-14-2005, 02:08 PM

Thanks for response to my first post. EdMan57 when you say, "cathode-biased amp " does that mean Class A?
Teleman I cant believe I bought a crate either, but I couldnt deny what my ears heard. Funny, but I am glad it doesnt say Crate on the thing in large label lol.
Thing is I bought a floor model cause it was the only one left and now I am hearing buzzing from what sounds like the amp. It only happens when I play a G note, so it leads me to believe that the amp was beat on a little and the tubes are going. Any G frequency is causing it, or bending up to it etc. I contacted the Guitar Center people and they are going to get ma one shipped to their location so I can swap it out with a brand new out of the box one.
Do you guys have an opinion about how hot this things runs, or is it ok? Should I get a fan to point down at it?
Amazing tone I'll say it again.
I just got back from a local music shop by me and played the Mexican made Hot Rod Deville again and after playing the V32 for the last three days, wow, the HRD sounds bad almost. I still like the cleans but the overdrive really is not for me. And to me the cleans on the V32 actually surpass what I hear from the HRD.
Thanks for all responding and, if it sounds good to u go for it, that is what I am finding out....:dude

joek86

05-14-2005, 03:15 PM

WUTNOT,

I agree about the sound, it's awesome! I had a friend over this afternoon with a Marshall Handwired 1974X. The V30 held it's own tone wise and actually had more gain capability.

I am concerned about the heat as well, and I am thinking about a fan from Radio Shack..........

JK

wutnot

05-14-2005, 04:39 PM

That sounds impressive Joe!!
Any suggestions for anyone regarding the stock tubes?
the Groove Tubes sound good to me, but maybe there are better alternatives.
Now if I can somehow afford a Custom Shop 69 Fender relic or NOS lol. I played a custom 69 relic today and it rocked tone and playability wise...
I asked about the heat, cause maybe it is fine and the beast can handle it, I just dont know.
Oh Edman57 the combo has an output to attach this thing to a speaker cab too...cool, lol that may be a standard feature.

BozoTone

05-14-2005, 10:29 PM

Love my Palomino V8...fun little Class A , 5 watt amp with one 10". I am presently trying old glass in both the pre and power positions (at this point, a RCA "gray plate" AX7 and a Mullard EL84/6QB5) and will continue till I find the right combination. I have tried it thru various speakers and found it doesn't sound much different than thru the stock 10"...maybe this little 10" ain't so bad.....

EdMan57

05-14-2005, 11:44 PM

Wutnot,true Class-A is a single-ended design that is a single tube or dual single tube linked [like the THD Bi-valve] running full-out,unlike true Class-A/B designs.Even though cathode-biased designs tend to have some common tonal and playing feel characteristics as do Class-A amps,they are in actuality not true Class-A.The Aiken website has an excellent overview on this very subject.

As for the heat,I run a small fan pointed at the back of the head.I'm also seriously considering some NOS tubes in the near future.Probably a matched quartet of NOS Tesla EL84's from Mike at KCA NOS Tubes.I might go with a combo of NOS GE "short-plate" [my favorite American NOS tube] and NOS RFT 12AX7's in the pre-amp.

Ed

wutnot

05-15-2005, 06:19 AM

Edman57, wow you know a lot about tube amps and electronics. This is my first tube amp so I am still learning. I probably wouldnt be able to hear the different between the V32 and a true Class A.
But I think I do hear the difference between Class A and Class A/B. It seemed with the Hot Rod line that it can take a while for the warmth to kick in, even if it has been played for a while you still either have to crank it or play a bit harder to get the tone.
But I could be wrong.
As for tubes the V32 has 12AX7's in them for pre amp, states that it will produce more distorted tone over the 12AT7 and 12AU&, which supposedly are cleaner and brighter, I dont think I need that.
The Power tubes being EL84, Can I put in EL34, 6L6 or KT88's in this thing as replacing the EL84's? What sound differences might I expect?
My question really is what characteristics are these other power tubes associated with. I dont think I want to change from the EL84's cause I like the sound of the distortion, but you are saying that I can get different kinds of EL84's like new old stock ones?
Like what might JJ"s sounds like in comparision to the Groove Tube ones etc.?

bluesdoc

05-15-2005, 08:42 AM

Well, this has piqued my curiosity. Interestingly, Crate doesn't seem to have anything up on their website about the Palomino. ??? For instance, is there a loop? (I like to put dly and chorus in a loop).

jon

wutnot

05-15-2005, 08:47 AM

There is a line in and out on the back. This amp is special sale for Guitar Center's. I think it is pretty much the same amp as the V3112, which is a black tolex look rather than the beige one with gold trim I have. I believe it to be relatively the same amp. But I am not sure, the V3112 I think has been out for a year maybe two, not sure. I read some where the V32 has slight improvements, better speaker although both have the same specs and possibly a tube reverb if that makes any sense. The swtiches and knobs are the same, but have heard of wiring differences, anyone know of this? I sent email to Crate Customer Support but probably wont hear back from them until Monday.

bluesdoc

05-15-2005, 08:49 AM

Thanks wutnot.

jon

wutnot

05-15-2005, 09:01 AM

No problem bluesdoc, if you hear anything, would you let me know?

bluesdoc

05-15-2005, 09:04 AM

Sure, wn

jon

wutnot

05-15-2005, 09:07 AM

LOl my name is Dave, seems like everyone signs their real name after their post.

Dave

bluesdoc

05-15-2005, 09:13 AM

Some do, some don't. I prefer keeping it as real as possible, Dave.

jon

bluesdoc

05-15-2005, 09:16 AM

Yeah, I suspect that this is it:

http://www.crateamps.com/product/manuals/V31121.pdf
and the Palomino is mostly cosmetic. We'll see........

jon

wutnot

05-15-2005, 09:29 AM

I like the way the beige with gold trim looks so I am cool, but have heard of speaker upgrade and wiring differences, but dont know. Since I read that older V3112 have been serviced in the past for the heat problem, I am hoping in the newer model they may have modified something....shrug, but I bet they are the same. I also read a post on some site stating that he compared the V3112 and the V32 Palomino head to head, and said he did hear differences gain and reverb level differences. But I dont know that for fact unless I hear it for myself, dont know on how reliable that source are.
Comparing the technical specs from my V32 Palomino manual and the V3112 that are identical.

dlxtele

05-15-2005, 09:41 AM

Palomino's have metal shaft pots not plastic and cosmetic differences. I have heard mention of a better speaker, but that has not been confirmed.

The V series now has an optional upgrade to Tone Tubby speakers for a $100 charge. Some V's use Celestion speakers now and I believe they are the 70/80 series as used by Traynor.

Brent

wutnot

05-15-2005, 12:49 PM

I just got word from Crate tech support, he states that regarding the V3112 and the Palomino V32, "They are the same amp electronically, just different cosmetics".

bluesdoc

05-15-2005, 12:54 PM

Cool. As appearance is irrelevant to me, I could save a few bucks if I pursued this amp. It IS intriguing. I love 84s and have a large stash of matched quartets.

jon

wutnot

05-15-2005, 01:01 PM

I think the V3112 and V32 palomino are around the same prices. What are you comparing to?

bluesdoc

05-15-2005, 01:07 PM

Oh well.....

PV Classic 30

VHT Pittbull 45

jon

wutnot

05-15-2005, 01:14 PM

As I have not heard either of those other amps, I cant say in comparision. Good luck in your search.

bluesdoc

05-15-2005, 01:22 PM

Having had a number of multi-thousand buck amps, I'm having a great time finding excellent tone for cheap (relatively......). It's a game :) Thanks, Dave.

jon

wutnot

05-15-2005, 01:34 PM

Awesome can I get a list of your top end amps? or even a pic or two? I wish I had dough like that.

bluesdoc

05-15-2005, 01:52 PM

Dave, I'm 58. Been at it a long time. Grown kids, etc, so I have a little disposable income (and no other 'vices'). I was a dealer for Two Rock for a year. Had a bunch of them, Bogner Shiva, Rivera Rake, Groove Tubes, Matchless Chieftain, some Fuchs amps, etc. They all sounded great, but I don't miss any of them as I can get great tone for well under a grand. I don't need to own anything just because it's a respected, valuable amp. In fact, I really enjoy NOT owning expensive gear. Been there, done it, got the T shirt. Had a 4+K guitar. Too nice. Now my #1 is a Warmoth/Fender strat mutt with Anderson pups. Suits me fine, sounds killer. Plays like a dream. It IS a fun game :)

jon

wutnot

05-15-2005, 02:06 PM

I agree that it is all subjective. been playing out of a SS amp for 12 years now and not thinking twice about it before this V32. So this is a new world for me and I am learning as I go. I have relied on my chops and imagination to produce the sound I want. With now adding new equipment has increased and renewed my inpiration playing and also increased it while playing, so cant be all bad. I keep it simple, mainly because of cash flow to have a amp and a main electric guitar, also an acoustic.
I gather information well and think I have an ok ear, two of them actually.
I am age 30 and just having fun playing music and seeing what I can do. I am looking at a multi track recorder so I can put my thoughts down and see how I actually sound.:) :)

BozoTone

05-15-2005, 06:00 PM

...Speaking of speakers, Crate is offering a 2X12 cab (V212T) that is loaded with Tone Tubby's at $599 that looks like the the V50 series..also have the V30H head version that well with the V212T, also $599...wouild have liked to have heard this set up when I was lookin' at toys...couldn't find any.....

joek86

05-15-2005, 06:06 PM

I am thinking of upgrading the speaker in my Palomino, any thoughts on Tone Tubby's vs. Celesion G12h for mainly Classic rock playing?

Joe

EdMan57

05-15-2005, 11:15 PM

Originally posted by wutnot
Edman57, wow you know a lot about tube amps and electronics.

{Not really too much.Others on this forum know much more...but thanks for the kind words.}

The Power tubes being EL84, Can I put in EL34, 6L6 or KT88's in this thing as replacing the EL84's?

{I believe that you can't do that,at least not without doing some major modifications.}

I dont think I want to change from the EL84's cause I like the sound of the distortion, but you are saying that I can get different kinds of EL84's like new old stock ones?

{Yes,though the supply gets more scarce every day.A quality matched quartet of NOS EL84's can run you anywhere from $100.00 to as much as $400.00.}

Like what might JJ"s sounds like in comparision to the Groove Tube ones etc.?

I would guess that a good set of matched JJ EL84's would be an improvement over the stock Groove Tube Sovteks.Crate uses stock tubes that are fairly reliable...just rugged enough to [hopefully] make it through the tube warranty period.

Ed

Blue Strat

05-16-2005, 06:23 AM

Originally posted by EdMan57

As for the heat,I run a small fan pointed at the back of the head.I'm also seriously considering some NOS tubes in the near future.Probably a matched quartet of NOS Tesla EL84's from Mike at KCA NOS Tubes.I might go with a combo of NOS GE "short-plate" [my favorite American NOS tube] and NOS RFT 12AX7's in the pre-amp.

Ed

A fan is a great idea as are the tube selections you've listed.

wutnot

05-16-2005, 06:55 AM

The tube selection sounds good, as I hear a bunch of people that rave about the NOS telsa EL84's and NOS RFT 12Ax7's. Debating if I can spend that much money for tubes...$110 fir a quad of EL84's might be beyond me.

Groovyjeffrey

11-28-2007, 11:15 AM

TubeDepot. I got a set of 4 Sovtek EL84 $29 to my door. I used them in my Fender Pro Reverb for years. Will take a pounding.

rockon1

11-28-2007, 01:19 PM

Im using an Eminance Tonespotter in my V32-that and all old stock tubes. Recently put old stock power tubes in it(dont know the make ) and if it didnt sound killer before (it did) it sounds that much better now-especially when you get the tubes cookin a bit. It still amazes me how good this amp sounds! :D Bob

soulohio

11-28-2007, 02:16 PM

I put a Celestion Blue in my V16...and that speaker is worthy of the hype....the no name Celestion that is in the amp is good, though. I don't know if it is an EL84 thing, but the V16 seems to like the dirt it generates on it's own and the pedals I have put in front of it don't take very well...I think NOS tubes would be fine. I have been swapping tubes in and out of mine since I bought it...cutting down the gain with an AT or AU7 is OK but the gain is what makes the amp fun! In my opinion I wouldn't do a whole lot with this amp...the iron in it is mediocre and if you go that far you really have a new amp.

I am thinking of upgrading the speaker in my Palomino, any thoughts on Tone Tubby's vs. Celesion G12h for mainly Classic rock playing?
Joe

Telecaster62

11-28-2007, 02:59 PM

I have a question about the Palomino's and would love some feedback. I'm looking at getting an amp to use at rehearsals. I'm currently using a Pro Junior through a 1X12 enlarged cabinet and it sounds great but it doesn't have quite enough clean headroom for our rehearsals. Would the V16 have more clean than a Pro Junior and if not does the V32 have substantially more? Thanks.

cesargrc

11-28-2007, 03:10 PM

I run a Palamino V16 for practice all the time...with the volume set to 3 o'clock and the gain at about 9 o'clock it has more than enough clean head room against a loud drummer. Put a nice OD pedal in front of it and it screams. The boost function helps also... just watch out for the bass level as too much level starts to muddy the factory celestion speaker.

soulohio

11-28-2007, 03:12 PM

I don't know if i agree about the clean headroom, but i never played the V16 against a band.

scottlaned

11-28-2007, 03:12 PM

Great amp. Own one right now w/a G12H30 in it, sounds wonderful!

I'm selling it right now in the Emporium because I just bought an Allen from a fellow TGPer, so if anyone's interested, PM me! ;)

scottlaned

11-28-2007, 03:14 PM

V32 has a lot of clean headroom. Much more than the V16.

Breakup JUST starts right around med club gig volume.

I have a question about the Palomino's and would love some feedback. I'm looking at getting an amp to use at rehearsals. I'm currently using a Pro Junior through a 1X12 enlarged cabinet and it sounds great but it doesn't have quite enough clean headroom for our rehearsals. Would the V16 have more clean than a Pro Junior and if not does the V32 have substantially more? Thanks.

Telecaster62

11-28-2007, 04:04 PM

Thanks guys. I don't need tons more clean than the pro junior. Maybe just 10 to 20% more. Sounds like the V16 would do it.

Al Nico

12-07-2007, 01:28 PM

My V1512 with a Weber Alnico Blue just barely kept up with a loud drummer during practice, before breaking up. However, if you put it up on a stand and don't demand squeaky clean-clean, it should do fine. For gigs, I'd go with the V30/V32.

Flyin' Brian

12-07-2007, 01:50 PM

A late welcome to the forum, and remember that no matter what all of the other opinions are, the bottom line is what sounds good to YOU. It sounds like you're pretty happy with your gear...but it will only be for a while because it's a sickness. :D

Oldtone

12-07-2007, 02:23 PM

I don't know that the V15 ( Palomino) will have more headroom than the BJ or PJ. I have both and I would say the BJ has more headroom vs the Palomino. I have used a clean boost like a Zoom pedal to get more clean, but you are into a modeling sound now and may lose some of the V15's character/sound a bit. I like the V15 because it gets me where I want to go at a lower volume than the BJ. Great for home, practice or small areas. The BJ gets there, just later and louder. the V15 just has more gain available and I don't know if it's all tube or if there is SS circuitry involved like the V5. I liked the V5,too, but it just sounded 'smaller' even through the same cab (switchable 4ohm or 16 ohm, in case you are wondering).

Al Nico

12-07-2007, 02:49 PM

You can increae the V15/Palomino 16 headroom, with lower-gain preamp tube(s), and also by clipping 1 cap (I can't recall what it is, I think C38). I did it, and I get a nice gritty chimey breakup around 2 o'clock on the preamp gain, and don't get into sludge metal territory until it's on 11.

Stratman76

12-07-2007, 03:59 PM

rockon1

12-07-2007, 04:36 PM

I'm debating about some new tubes for my Palomino V32. I installed a set of matched JJ EL84's as well as a set of JJ 12AX7's. While I believe the Palomino V32 is a great value, the I'm just not crazy about the gain tone I've squeezed out of this amp.

I'm thinking about Tung Sol 12 AX7 first. If that doesn't take me anywhere, I'm going with TAD EL84 STR's to replace the JJ's power tubes.

Any suggestions are appreciated! I bought this V32 used and replaced the speaker with an Eminence Swamp Thing; that was a good move!

The speaker is the biggest improvment you can make IMO. I mated mine with a Tonespotter and I think its a great match for the amp. If your happy with the Swamp thing thats big. After that NOS tubes make a significant difference too-especially the power tubes. The old stock (used) EL84's really helped my tone when Im cranking the amp. Very fat,meaty distortion. Bob

Scott Auld

12-08-2007, 11:35 AM

Poor man's little stackage.

Palomino V32 Head into 2x12 Marshall bought here on TGP. Agile 3100 Les Paul Knockoff.

http://freepatriot.com/imagewarehouse/mini%20stack.jpg

Chickenheads give it a different look.

http://freepatriot.com/imagewarehouse/palomino%20v32%20chickenhead%20knobs1.jpg

I'm very happy with the sound.

rockon1

12-08-2007, 12:17 PM

Cool-I dig the chickenheads! Much easier to see than the stockers. where did you pick them up? Bob

Scott Auld

12-08-2007, 12:28 PM

Here is an mp3 (soundboard dump) of us doing a rework of a Robert Randolph tune last night, I was playing the V32 head setup pictured above.

http://newdawn.org/music-right-direction.mp3

Yeah, I play in a Wanking-Friendly Church! ;):D

Scott Auld

12-08-2007, 12:30 PM

Cool-I dig the chickenheads! Much easier to see than the stockers. where did you pick them up? Bob

Thanks Bob, I appreciate it. :) I purchased the knobs from Antique Electronic Supply (http://www.tubesandmore.com/) for $1.35 each. I really like the look. Chiba put the idea in my head.

The original knobs made it very hard to see what your settings were at:

http://freepatriot.com/imagewarehouse/palomino%20v32%20round%20knobs1.jpg

rockon1

12-08-2007, 12:35 PM

Ive bought some stuff from them recently also(stomp box DPTP switch and power tube retainers). I think I'll get some of those chickenheads too! Besides looking cool the stockers are definately near inpossible to read in low lighting especially. Thanks for the heads up.Bob

Scott Auld

12-08-2007, 12:44 PM

I also got some free tolex samples from them. I am going to re-cover the Marshall because it's tolex is all torn up. Thinking about going with a one-off color for the Marshall, maybe cream or brown w/ Oxblood grillcloth. We'll see.

I also have a Palomino v8 five-watt, it's great as well. Freaking monster-loud little thing.

Al Nico

12-08-2007, 03:32 PM

Thanks Bob, I appreciate it. :) I purchased the knobs from Antique Electronic Supply (http://www.tubesandmore.com/) for $1.35 each. I really like the look. Chiba put the idea in my head.

Do the knobs get in the way of the boost/channel buttons? I put Peavey Classic series knobs on my V1512, and it hits the boost button :(.

Scott Auld

12-08-2007, 04:22 PM

Do the knobs get in the way of the boost/channel buttons? I put Peavey Classic series knobs on my V1512, and it hits the boost button :(.

It does not collide with the buttons, but if the knob is turned in that direction it does cover up the boost button or the presence button.

I keep boost turned on all the time so no biggie for me. I also use the footswitch, not the buttons, so also not a problem for me. Small price to pay, I think. :)

the_Chris

12-08-2007, 04:40 PM

The V32 Palomino is one heck of an amp. I used one for about a year while I was getting work done to a Fargen Dual Classic amp. With a speaker swap and some new tubes I ended up being happy enough to keep it in my stable. The sweet spot for the amp for my taste is a G12H30 and JJ power amp and preamp tubes. Exactly what I don't like about JJ's in other amps end up working in my favor here: it has less gain, a thicker, tamer sound and it helps balance out the EQ really well on the Palomino. I felt stock the Palomino is on the brighter, thinner side and the overdrive was a little harsh and there was so much of it available it was almost a joke, but those few changes made it a keeper for me.

I remember laughing about the amp with the sales guys at GC and my bandmates about "hell freezing over because I've just bought a Crate". :D The amp does do a heck of a lot of quality tones though, it satisfies the Vox and Matchless-ish type of sound on the cheap. The amp is pretty dang durable as well, it survived a car accident and has a huge gash in the side, but keeps on cranking!

Scott Auld

12-08-2007, 05:01 PM

That's cool, Chris. I didn't buy it for about a year because it was made by Crate. I just played it in the store for that long. Finally I just went and broke down and bought the five watt combo and the 30 watt head. :)

Scott Auld

12-08-2007, 05:04 PM

This is when I had the chassis out
http://freepatriot.com/imagewarehouse/tubes.jpg

From when I thought I blew some tubes (but it was just the Wah pedal left on :D:D:D)

Stratman76

12-09-2007, 03:38 PM

What OD/Distortion and/or fuzz pedals have you liked with the Palomino V32? I can tell you I don't like the Barber Burn Unit EQ too much with it and the MI Audio Crunch Box is just OK. These two have been tried through the clean channel as well as attempts to blend with the dirt channel. No magic found to date.

soulohio

12-09-2007, 04:05 PM

The sweet spot for the amp for my taste is a G12H30 and JJ power amp and preamp tubes. Exactly what I don't like about JJ's in other amps end up working in my favor here: it has less gain, a thicker, tamer sound and it helps balance out the EQ really well on the Palomino. I felt stock the Palomino is on the brighter, thinner side and the overdrive was a little harsh and there was so much of it available it was almost a joke, but those few changes made it a keeper for me.

this is the deal...

spjoker

12-09-2007, 06:34 PM

I was in GC and tried out the crate.....(I had to literally talk myself into trying it.. I laughed to at the thought of crate); But geez the amp impressed me. It does do vox and a little marshall. Very good value. I want to pick up the head and experiment with some cabs. I also like the fender hot rod deluxe 1-12 upgraded version with the vintage jenson speaker...good cleans... the distortion not so hot.

71cutty

05-14-2010, 11:49 AM

I've got a (2005?) palomino v3212 that I purchased new from Guitar Center for $450 and its been going strong ever since. I practice once a week with the band and probably play out 2 or 3 times a month. I've had to replace the tubes twice since I've owned it. I replaced the stock tubes with Ruby tubes that didn't even last a year. I recently replaced all power tubes with JJs; the preamps with two JJ 12ax7 and one EH 12ay7 in the V2 slot. I've also replaced the stock Celestion speakers with one Eminence Tonker and one Eminence Tonespotter. I know tone is subjective, but the amp eq sounds much more "articulate" to my ears with a smoother OD

teleman55

05-18-2010, 02:42 AM

Anyone ever try a 5751 in one of these?

odd

09-15-2010, 09:37 AM

How do the lower-wattage models (8, 16) compare to the V32?

odd

09-16-2010, 11:01 AM

How do the lower-wattage models (8, 16) compare to the V32?

bump!
\
:knitting

soulohio

09-16-2010, 02:18 PM

I like my V16. Nice little combo. I changed the speaker to a blue and that was all it needed. I think to go any further I would maybe clip some of the gain out and see what needed to be done to focus the sound a bit more when you run the gain low-volume very high(dimed)...the other way with the gain high and volume at sane levels it seems to straighten out pretty well...

rockon1

09-16-2010, 03:45 PM

FWIW- I always liked the sound of my V32 plugged into my 2x12 G12K-100 loaded cab but never bought one in 9 ohms for it. Got a deal on a WGS ET-65 so that went in. Well Ive had an ET-65 in the V32 for a while and been digging it. Today after using it for months I decided to plug into my G12K-100 loaded cab again. That was a mistake- I cant believe it! Just more of everything. Deep strong bass,punchy mids and highs with more definition. Should have never done that.........Bob

aussiemeats

09-16-2010, 03:50 PM

Good Day,

I had a V16 and it was a great amp...but it only had a single channel, and no effects loop.

It was made in the USA, and had plenty of TORQUE when used. Sounded great

at lower volumes, AND cranked up as well. I traded it for V32 because I wanted

the FX Loop, and the Clean / Dirty channel options.

Looking back, I should have kept the V16, and just bought the V32.

It was perfect size and wattage amp, for carting around. Either way,

IMHO you cant beat either one, at their price points.

Both are great amps for the money.

Cheers

boost

09-16-2010, 03:52 PM

Anyone put in the Mercury Magnetics transformers in these? Curious to know how drastic the difference was.

aussiemeats

09-17-2010, 06:45 AM

Good Day,

I'm installing a Hammond 1650K OT in my V32. Should have it done by this afternoon.

I can tell you this, weight and mass-wise on the Transformers, The Hammond is

almost 7 lbs ( the stock OT maybe 1-2lbs) and at least 4 times the mass of the stock

O.T.

Cheers

boost

09-17-2010, 08:20 AM

aussiemeats

09-17-2010, 10:54 AM

Good Day,

Leadfootdriver installed one in his V32...I believe he was VERY happy.

Check out this post:
http://www.thegearpage.net/board/showthread.php?t=510151&page=14

posts: 204 and 212, that should give you an idea of what to expect.

Those posts motivated me to make the changes to my V32.

Also when I get done I'll post as well.

Cheers

aussiemeats

09-18-2010, 08:00 AM

Good Day,

I finished installing the Hammond 1650K OT in my V32

(Disclaimer: The below information should NOT be attempted by

novices, or ANYBODY unfamiliar with electronics or electrical circuits

Voltages are present that can KILL YOU. Do not attempt this change

if you don't KNOW what your doing. I will accept no responsibility for

the consequences, should anybody attempt this and you get hurt or worse

yet.. killed. Proceed at your own risk!)

The installation is very straight forward. There are only 3 connections

to the mainboard , and they are color coded. Red, Blue, Brown.

The new transformer has the same colors, and they correspond to the

same connectors. I just needed to crimp on the shielded female tab type

connectors to the new transformer leeds and route the cable to the

correct connection tabs.

Then, there are 5- 2nd stage wires that need to be configured / soldered

to the impedance selector...(note the K series Transformer, you can

purchase the optional impedance selector kit for another $15.00 which is

basically a rotary switch and a 1/4 female jack. You need to mount the

rotary switch to the chassis, and then, I crimped the 1/4" jack connectors

to two shielded females tabs, and then connected them, to the existing

speaker output jack on the Crate)

My understanding is the KA model is even easiser to setup the impedance

side or second stage wiring.

I had to purchase a set of 4 mounting screws and a rubber grommet to

mount the transformer to the chassis. I drilled 5 holes in the chassis

4 for the OT, and 1 for the impedance selector switch.

The new OT is really much larger and much heavier then the original stock

OT transformer.

After doing the soldering, 6 solder points, and crimping 5 connectors,

and routing and cable tying the wires. I was ready to fire it up.

My first thought once I hit the on switch with it on "Standby" was

Wow!!..it didn't blow up, so far so good, then I took it off "Standby", and

to my surprise I got sound! I had put on rubber insulated shoes just

in case, and although I had my L.P. connected, I wasn't making contact

with the strings, with my hands initially until I heard the amp start

picking up my string vibration.

Sound: What was immediately obvious was the "fullness" the the new

OT offered. The bass was tighter and not muddy at all, the "Mids" were

very much more noticeable, and the amp "seemed to me" to be somewhat

louder..not major..but possibly "thicker" sounding.

One thing that I did notice was, that the "Treble" was not intensified,

another words, if you're hoping to acquire increased treble "gain", this is

not for you, although, I am running a 10 band MXR graphic EQ in the

FXsLOOP and that does allow me to tailor the sound output more to my

specific desires.

I'm still in the honeymoon phase here, I need to tinker more with the amp

to really determine if I like this new setup.

The good news is I kept the old Transformer, and I didn't cut or modify

anything, that can't be put back to "STOCK" if I decide I don't like the

changes. Overall, I think I'll be happy.

What I want now is a way to modify the tone stack so that I can get

A bit more "clarity" without having to use my EQ.

I still need to replace one more of the 2X12's with a Eminence Wizard.

I replaced one speaker with an Eminence Private Jack...I like the new

speaker and it's has an high efficiency rating of a bit over 101.

The Wizard is over 103, I think.

If you want to change anything on the V32 to improve

or modify the sonic output, I would suggest that you do the speakers

FIRST! That will make the biggest difference.

Was it worth the $130.00 and the time to do the install?

I'm a fidgit....I can't leave anything alone..I'm on this weird journey to find

"That sound" I have a friend who plays semi pro, and he has a V32

with 1X12, made in the USA model, and it sounds incredible... STOCK!

He is an exceptional player, and my bet is he could make two tin cans, or

ANY amp sound good....That's not to take anything away from the V32

It's a great sounding amp for the money.

Do you need to upgrade the OT?

Try the speaker upgrade, and EQ in the FXsLoop first....then decide.

Hope this helps

Cheers

rockon1

09-18-2010, 08:37 AM

Thanks for the update! I would really like having a multi tap output so Im considering an OT mainly for that reason. I like running an ext cab when I gig to get more spread and cant do sowithout a mismatch as it is.

I agree the speaker is the "vocal cords" of the amp and really makes the most immediate ,biggest improvement. Wish I didnt plug into my G12K-100 cab the other day. Forgot what I was missing. The WGS ET-65 has to go.... I put the Tonespotter back in and I'll use that for now. I really dug the speaker at first but it grew to fatigue my ears in the long run. Who knows maybe 2-3 years in my scorching attic have mellowed it a bit! Now thats an aging process! lol!

I always use an EQ in the loop and one in front to shape the incoming signal as well as the amp.As I stated earlier I think the most usable mod I made was the variable boost level control . Bob

aussiemeats

09-18-2010, 09:03 AM

Bob,

How did the the variable boost control impact the sound per se?

What about the R31 jumper mod? How does that impact the tonal

dynamics?

Cheers

rockon1

09-18-2010, 09:27 AM

Bob,

How did the the variable boost control impact the sound per se?

What about the R31 jumper mod? How does that impact the tonal

dynamics?

Cheers

I made all my mods switchable so 1) I can A/B the differences 2) use the amp stock or modded.

If I remember corrctly jumpimg R31 cuts the bass. Depends on the speaker. The ET-65 I was using had little bass so I left the switch on stock position. When I plugged in my G12K-100 cab I put the switch on the jumpered position.

The variable boost works nicely and doesnt seem to impact the tone at all aside from reducing the amount of boost. In conjuction with the switchable C53(cap that bleeds boosted highs) its nice and usable as a solo boost.

Another way of using this set up is to engage the boost function and dial in smaller amounts of boost and/or use the "full range boost " switch to shape the tone more than stock. Often I use it like this since Im used to running an EQ pedal in the loop for volume boosts anyways. Bob

boost

09-18-2010, 07:33 PM

What are the recommended speaker changes for a 1 x 12 combo? A nice speaker would probably be about the same price as the transformer and much quicker to replace. Then comes the transformer.;)

rockon1

09-18-2010, 07:57 PM

What are the recommended speaker changes for a 1 x 12 combo? A nice speaker would probably be about the same price as the transformer and much quicker to replace. Then comes the transformer.;)

That really depends on your ears unfortunately. Some speakers others love, I cant stand and vice-versa. Some speakers I thought I really liked fatigued me in the long haul. Are you after a big punchy sound or a more vintage vibe? If your after a big punchy sound I'd say a G12K-100 works for me. For a more vintage vibe perhaps a G12H-30. It takes a loooooong time for the G12H-30 to break in though. Oh ,yeah it will handle the power.

I'd get a G12K-100 for mine but at this point Im really leary of adding a big magnet speaker to the amp. I may try a Jensen tornado neo for the weight savings! Yeah its a bit crazy sounding but Im tired of lugging anything over 40 lbs around. Probably a pipe dream but you never know. Bob

aussiemeats

09-19-2010, 07:00 AM

Good Day,

It was suggested to me, by the V32 amps designer, to try the Eminence

Wizard. It has a high efficency rating SPL like 103. They run about

$90.00. I have the V32 2X12 setup, so I'm replacing both Spkrs.

I have initially purchased the Eminence Private Jack, and I really like what

that speaker did for me on the highs, and

I will be purchasing the Eminence Wizard next week.

I can post my thoughts on the Wizard ,and the combination of

Private Jack ,and Wizard, if it would be helpful.

Like Reckon1 advised, it truly depends on what your trying to acheive

tonally. The thing for me is, Mr. Khan advised me, he has tried many

speakers and he finally decided on the Wizard as his choice for the V32.

That's good enough for me, to a least, give a whirl.

I also asked him about EL84's tubes and he suggested the Ruby

El84's..which I purchased and just recently installed, I was very

pleased with the results, I play (I hate this term) "Classic" R @ R / blues.

Hope this helps...

Cheers

Green Manalishi

09-22-2010, 06:47 PM

I jsut got a V32, and which one is the V1 preamp tube? I've been searching and can't find the answer. The tube layout would be great. I assume that V1 is by the input but you know when you assume.

Very nice amp, I just put new JJ El84s to replace the worn and microphonic GTs that were in there.

rockon1

09-22-2010, 06:49 PM

Green Manalishi

09-22-2010, 07:00 PM

Thanks, Bob.

aussiemeats

09-23-2010, 07:26 AM

Good Day,

Bob, per your suggestion, and Obeid's, I have been running my MXR 10 band EQ thru my

FXS loop on my V32...after my Output Transformer upgrade, and Speaker upgrade.

I have to say, I'm very pleased with the current setup...sonically. I have the sound

I want "dialed in" now, on either the clean, or the Dirty channels. After a week of

playing around with the V32, AFTER the OT upgrade, I'm satisfied that it was well

worth the $130.00 investment and the 1-2 hours of labor to install it. The OT DOES

definitely make a noticeable difference, in the sonic output.

I might also suggest for anyone who may be considering the upgrade,

to try inserting a EQ in the FXS loop, to see if that doesn't give

you what you're looking for sonically, along with a speaker upgrade

first, before doing the OT upgrade.

Here's a couple of picts:The first is a shot showing the comparison
of the two transformers Old and New...obviously the new one is the
larger one.

http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/aussiemeats/Suhr/Crate/V32transformerComp-1.jpg

The second is a shot of the finished install.The new OT is on the right.

http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/aussiemeats/Suhr/Crate/V32FrontTransInstall.jpg

Ill post a internal wiring shot tomorrow..I've got to disassemble the system again to get it.

Cheers and thanks to Bob, Leadfootdriver, and O.Kahn.

You all gave me great input, and it would have been impossible

for me to accomplish this mod, without all of your help and assistance.

Cheers

rockon1

09-23-2010, 01:05 PM

Wow thats huge compared to the original! Is it multiple taps? It definately looks more seious than the stocker. Thanks for posting pics. Bob

rockon1

09-23-2010, 01:37 PM

Ok did a little surfing. The OT you used has 4 ,8 and 16 ohm outputs-cool !
Question-why did you use the 1650K and not the 1650N ? Seems like the primary impedance of 4300 would be a closer match than the 3400 of the 1650K or am I missing something? ? Bob

aussiemeats

09-23-2010, 01:48 PM

Good Day,

Bob, Yes Multiple taps. I purchased the impedance kit, which included a rotary

switch, which I mounted on the back...here's a photo in the unfinished config:

http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/aussiemeats/Suhr/Crate/V32WireRedBlueBRN.jpg

The red and black wires running off the switch are the speaker output

connections, I connected them to the existing output jack on the V32.

You can see the other three main OT connections: Red /Brown /Blue are

just slip on tabs that I crimped on and then connected to the existing

tabs on the mainboard. I ended up redoing the red, because it was too

long.

The Rotary switch does come with an female 1/4" jack connected

to it..I just desolderd the jack, and crimped on two connectors, so it

would connect to the existing tabs for the speaker output jack.

I had to solder the 5, 2nd stage wires for the different

impedance's, to the back of the rotary switch. It wasn't that difficult.

The KA model OT I believe, has a easier 2nd stage setup for this task.

I'll post some picts of the finished job, from the inside, later today or tmr.

I used the K because Leadfootdriver suggested it, and I ran it by OB.Kahn

and he blessed it as well. I did look at the other other OT you mentioned,

and I was eyeballing it as well, as a potential candidate. It could potentially

work instead of the K.

Cheers

rockon1

09-23-2010, 02:42 PM

Hmmm...Only 115$ at AES . I might have to have a bit more fun! Thanks...I think....lol! Hmmm...It does look like the KA would be an easier hook up. Bob

aussiemeats

09-23-2010, 04:01 PM

Good Day,

Here's the picts of the OT upgrade inside wiring etc:

Complete Inside
http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/aussiemeats/Suhr/Crate/V32MB.jpg

Note this is a MIVN model...nothing wrong with this wiring job!

Here's the outside Speaker Selector Switch shot:
http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/aussiemeats/Suhr/Crate/V32SlrImpSelSwitchOutside.jpg

Here's the inside shot of that selector:
http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/aussiemeats/Suhr/Crate/V32SkrImpSwitchInside.jpg

Here's the inside connection to the Speaker Jack:
http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/aussiemeats/Suhr/Crate/V32SpkrOUTConn_135449.jpg

Here's the main 3 wires connection Red /Blue /Brown:
http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/aussiemeats/Suhr/Crate/V32OTMainConnection.jpg

Here's the V32 Cranked up!!
http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y343/aussiemeats/Suhr/Crate/V32Crankedup2.jpg

Hope this helps

Cheers

rockon1

09-27-2010, 06:45 PM

midnightlaundry

09-27-2010, 06:51 PM

D#mn you guys! My 1650K OT and imp switch are on the way!:D Cant help but mess with a good thing to make it a bit better! Yeah probably 5 lbs heavier too but with impedance selection I'll be able to run all my cabs and stuff. Bob

:rotflmao

I put a WGS Veteran 30 back in there, and disengaged the presence switch. So at band practice, I was getting a rippin midrange tone that was loud as fuk! I had it on 3. ;)

The high end and midrange character really comes alive when it's loud. This is a good sounding amp.

rockon1

09-27-2010, 07:00 PM

:rotflmao

I put a WGS Veteran 30 back in there, and disengaged the presence switch. So at band practice, I was getting a rippin midrange tone that was loud as fuk! I had it on 3. ;)

The high end and midrange character really comes alive when it's loud. This is a good sounding amp.

Well I put my ET-65 back in mine after running 14vac thru it for about 5 hours then playing bass thru it on the OD channel. That routine loosened the speaker right up and I had low end again. lol! Probably swap the OT this weekend if it gets here by then. Bob

yoyoyoseph

09-28-2010, 12:53 AM

rockon1

09-28-2010, 03:08 AM

Thanks for all the great info on this thread-

I'm looking to get a bit of a mellower tone out of this amp if possible, towards grateful dead/folk rock/jazz/country. I still have the Palamino Celestion in there and think a speaker swap will be the first step towards this before learning more about mods. My research is pointing me towards a Cannabis Rex or a Tonespotter. Any advice? Would a higher watt rating (50 watt) help control the power and smooth things out a bit? Thanks for any advice, especially if I'm way off...

Well,I can tell you you dont want a Tonespotter-not for "mellower" tones. Its got an upper mid emphasis that cuts well but isnt that smooth. Havent heard the C rex but from descriptions its propably closer to mellow than the Tonespotter. Bob

teleman55

09-28-2010, 03:40 AM

CRex will do that. But your amp will get louder. It's real efficient. I've tried a few speakers in mine and went back with the stock Celestion, but that's just me.
Aside:
After a red plate problem (had a thread about that a few weeks ago), I put some new JJ's in mine and put a JJ ECC83 in V1 and V3 and a TungSol in between. Used it at a gig this weekend. A/B'd with a deluxe reverb. Went to wah>a/b pedal. one side to pedalboard to Fender. Other side to Phase 90 to Crate. That's 'cause I used the Crate for the funk stuff. Used it for a lot of other stuff too. Love this amp! Knock on wood it was real quiet, had it on for 4+ hours and no problems. Just like the DR, it sounded great. Gotta work the eq on these, kinda like a Tele in that way. Forget your eq assumptions. Great, sometimes tempermental, amp.

Buffalo Crispy

03-29-2011, 04:08 PM

rockon1

03-29-2011, 04:55 PM

Love my Palomino V32 but its starting to smell like burning plastic when I turn it on???..Took it apart and can not see what is melting or burning?....Still sounds just fine when I play it?....Anyone have any idea's??...

Look thru the vent at the power tubes ( in low light) and check if any of them are slightly redplating. Things get hot(ter) and smelly when they do. Bob

Buffalo Crispy

03-29-2011, 05:20 PM

rockon1

03-29-2011, 05:36 PM

Wow!...that was a quick reply.....THanks Bob....What is redplating?....Is it when the base of the tube/tubes gets so hot that the plate around the socket glows red?...I also I noticed when I turn my amp on it makes a low buzzing sound?....

Thats when the grey part of the inside of the tube starts to glow orangy-red. If its not to severe it can be hard to see in bright lit. The amp can/will also hum/buzz too. Bob

http://t0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQc4EPFsYJBCR8QIQ4WeG9CibMpk0vf5 Yb44WuhbejjlMLTwqsS5w&t=1

Buffalo Crispy

03-29-2011, 05:51 PM

If it is redplating, what do I do?...replace the tubes?....

rockon1

03-29-2011, 06:29 PM

If it is redplating, what do I do?...replace the tubes?....

Yep. First things first though-see if it is. Sovtek EL84M's seem to hang the longest in mine. Its eaten JJ's regular Sovtek 6BQ5's,even sadly a set of RCA's. Bob

Jules-RM

04-17-2012, 02:51 AM

DylanGuitar

04-17-2012, 07:16 AM

I'm thinking it's time to re-tube my Crate V3112. Doug's Tubes has a discount this month, seems like a good time.

Who's using what in the power and preamp sections these days?

I think I have Mullards in the power now and a mixture in the preamp - think there's a Mullard, and a couple Tung-Sols in there now. Sounds ok, but runs a bit loud. Wouldn't mind something to cut some of the crazy volume. At 1 (not o'clock, the first notch) it's at the right level for the drummer, wouldn't mind cranking it to at least 1.5 :p

.

Funny you should say that. This amp is not crazy loud at all. Every mod I did was in service of trying to get a little more clean headroom out of it.
I'd be curious to know what others are using the Power section. I used to use the Russian el84m's, rated for max headroom. Then when I went to replace the tubes, it started redplating everything I was putting in there. The wonderful tube company told me send them one of my old El84's so they could match the rating. All they did was lose the tube (it was still a working quad) and send me more tubes that started red-plating. Thanks guys!

I think I eneded up going with Premium El84's from the Tubestore, which have held up for about a year (gigging 3 or 4 times a week). I did put in a little walmart fan which makes the whole amp run MUCH cooler.

Jules-RM

04-17-2012, 10:16 AM

boost

04-17-2012, 10:38 AM

I've been rehearsing with my 1 x 12 combo lately and I've noticed the tone changes (gets darker and a little muddy sounding) after an hour or so. I'v experienced it before with this amp in the past.

What I'm not sure of is it the amp that is changing tone or just my hearing after being blasted for an hour or so?

Jules-RM

04-17-2012, 10:41 AM

Probably too hot after an hour, knowing these amps.

Little Timmy

04-17-2012, 10:48 AM

I've got a little desk fan that I mount occasionally to the back of my amp stand, blows air from the bottom up. Works to keep it cool - this might be my imagination: but the tone suffers.

Doug got back to me and recommended the same thing for power tubes and one each of a Tung Sol, Penta Labs and Sovtek. Not sure I 100% agree with the preamp recommendations - any advice?

Interesting side story about this amp - I gigged with this amp a lot, then spent a year with a AC30 head/Avatar cab with 2 15w Weber Blue Dogs and by far I got the most compliments on "tone" from the other bands with my V3112. As you can tell I'm back to the V3112. ;)

Couple years ago, when I was selling my 3112 to a friend, we retubed it with Doug's recommendations. Picked up a couple extra to play around with and ended up with his recommendations sounding best. The clean tones seemed to ring a little better with more of a bell like clarity. Adding gain it still kept clarity, and not overly compressed.

I want that amp back :'(