Pls. help!! Trying to open up an amp head (ibanez tsa)

[bh.]

hey guys!! need your help, i'm trying to open the ibanez tsa 15h head to try out different tubes, but i somehow can't get it to open... maybe the tolex is just too snug? anyway, i've removed all the screws but still can't open it. I just want to confirm if i need to open up the back side of it. Anyone have any success with this and maybe other similar heads? thanks for your help!!

p.s. i can see the tubes on the back, through the vent..

 

[dshobe]

I'm sure the tolex is just tight if all of the screws have been removed. Nephew had a similar issue with a Champ 600. Is there any way to reach inside and push on the edge? That's all I had to do.

 

[bh.]

thanks for your response. i've used a thin flat screwdriver and then a metal ruler to pry it open, top and bottom are already loose, but the tolex on both sides are just too tight haha!!! i don't know how others were able to swap tubes...unless they had the combo version. Anyway, i'll keep trying.

 

[bh.]

okay!! finally managed to get it out...just had to remove the metal braces on the corners to allow the wood to open up a bit!! it's time to swap tubes thanks again!

 

[dshobe]

Here's a thought; try letting it get cold, then hit the sides with a blow drier. Idk, worth a shot.

 

[bh.]

haha! i actually thought of doing that, when i hadn't realized that the metal corners were the ones holding the wooden frame too tightly. thanks for your help again! I already replaced the tube, and it definitely sounds better and clearer with JJ ECC81/12AT7 on V1 .
Though changing the speakers to a Celestion G12 Vintage 30 was a more dramatic improvement to this amp!

 

[dshobe]

Cool, I've noticed speaker swaps to be much more dramatic tone changers as well. JJ's are great, have fun!

 

[bh.]

Thanks!! Will do