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use. Please use only genuine MESA replacements (in fact, your amplifier's warranty is valid only if
MESA tubes are used). Power tubes should be purchased and installed in matched pairs for optimum
performance.
PREAMP TUBE
MAINTENANCE Excessive noise, feedback, squealing or rattling is almost always
the result of a deteriorated 12AX7 preamp tube -- most often the first or second tube on the right, as
seen from the rear. Checking the tubes in a tube tester is almost useless. The best procedure is to
take one spare
tube that's known to be good (and non-microphonic), and try it in each possible
preamp socket, while listening to the results each time. If the substitution doesn't cure the problem,
put the original tube back and move the spare to the next socket. Do not
replace preamp tubes
indiscriminately or all at once. Their aging is very slow, and you won't likely hear any improvement by
changing them, unless one has become noticeably noisy (in which case you should replace only the
bad tube).
Here are some general guidelines for preamp troubleshooting: if the problem affects only the Lead
mode, it's probably caused by the V1 tube (the one furthest to the right, as seen from the rear); but
may also be V2 or V3. If the problem is in the Rhythm mode only, then V2 is usually the problem (V2
is second from the right, as seen from the rear). Sometimes a Rhythm problem can also be V3. If the
reverb is noisy or has a problem, replace V4.
After rough handling of the amplifier or when replacing tubes, make certain they are plugged all the
way into their sockets and are centered within the metal holes of the chassis sheet metal. A tube that
has leaned over in its socket can vibrate and buzz against the metal chassis, causing annoying
noises. Note: a power tube that is crooked can also reduce clean volume levels dramatically, and
cause break-up similar to a bad speaker. Should this sound occur, ensure that your power tubes are
seated squarely in their sockets.
ENJOY! Most of all... enjoy your Studio Boogie! It's a great sounding amplifier and has been built to
satisfy professional demands for performance and reliability. And it should last a lifetime with only
moderate care and maintenance. It is extremely “user-friendly” and there's almost nothing you can do
to damage it, short of accident or obvious abuse. We've put our best into the design of the Studio .22
Plus, so you can get the most out of your playing. We've consciously made it feel real “spongy”, with
a smooth response that “forgives” your little mistakes! As one Studio .22 player put it, “It makes my
sloppiness sound like expressiveness… I love it!” So grab your favorite guitar and GO FOR THE
GUSTO! And thanks for choosing MESA/Boogie!
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