DetroitBlues

I was very fortunate to obtain over the weekend this killer Metropoulos 50w Metroplex MKII. This takes three of the most widely regarded Marshal circuits, Superlead, Superbass, and modified Superlead that follows the component values of EVH's Superlead. Only two inputs as the jumper method used on old Marshall’s is done internally. From what I understand the bright switch is the only major difference between the Superlead and Superbass amps, this amp has two flavors 500k and 5000k (so far the 5000K sounds best to me). The EVH channel called 12301 (EVH’s amp's serial number). It shares the tone controls but has separate gain controls. This allows the circuit to be second channel for a different flavor or a solo voice. To make it more friendly for home and small gigs, this model has a 50/25/10 watt setting. One important feature of this is the tone does not alter when changing the output. You can get the high gain sound without losing the low end typically found when you step down an amp or lower its volume. I can tell you last night I was rocking out on the amp and the Mrs was not complaining. A few more features are feature are high voltage boost by pulling the gain controls (which may be how it simulates the jumper method on the inputs?) and in-house designed effects loop that cuts the DB levels for pedals or boost them for rack effects. The effects loop is so well regarded, it can be purchased separately for amp builders to add to their own designs, I believe Friedman uses Metropoulos effects loop circuit. I've found this amp to be very pedal friendly and even through a 2x12 cab it has amazing tones at bedroom volumes. However, even at 10w through the same 2x12 its crazy loud. I'll be using this amp at my next gig, so I’ll share better, live band use mixes then for sound demo's. You can also reference this year's PSP videos. The same amp was used by Fredzep and myself on many of the songs.

Looks awesome, you've had a few over the years, I think the Greenies are a big upgrade from the stock EMG's. Hopefully it stays with you for awhile.

That is a rare, preproduction model being an A Serial number (1984) The unique inlays are another of Maudie Moore's wonderful work. For collectability, it could fetch a wonderful price, but Heritages are not known for collectors instruments. The guitar's condition looks rather beautiful except it appears to have been modified. The Grover tuners back then were aluminum, not chrome. The original bridge and tailpieces were made by Schaller and were the roller bridge with quick release tailpiece. This appears to have been updated with a Nashville style. Being a prototype, it could be original, but that is one of the first things that come to mind. My unqualified experience would price it between $1500 and $2000+.

I've got one of two different guitars back. First being my H140, got that one back; currently on loan to someone rather deserving of it that couldn't otherwise afford a Heritage. Second is my 1976 Stratocaster I put up for sale and went back the next day to get it back, it was sold apparently 20 minutes after I dropped it off.

Side note to all the recordings. Bass is set to about 2, Mid's about 3, Treble around 5 (based upon a 1-12 scale). Volume is set to around 4. The change in the dirt is all volume knob of the guitar.

Unfortunately, I don't have the recording skills you have plus my playing seems rushed. Don't know why when I'm with a band, its fine, but when I'm just playing without a track, its a hot mess.

Only problem I ever had with the old Schaller stuff was a tailpiece had a burr that kept cutting the high e string and causing it to snap. Otherwise, I don't have an issue with them. Some debate sustain, tone loss, etc. I have a cheaply made Les Paul Jr that has hardware from Guitar Fetish. Stuff has held up great after nearly ten years. I don't notice a sustain issue, lack of tone, etc. It works. I say unless the parts are corroded or damaged in some way, just leave them alone.

https://youtube.com/shorts/0ZtPFR6W1Gk?si=pKs7FM5DdbS91t50

My Marshall amp has multiple speaker outputs. If using the internal driver, could I hook up an attenuator to one of the other outputs so I can use its direct out for a PA? Would that work?

Missed that opportunity when I was at the ranch. Maybe tonight once the Mrs. will be at school for open house.

That be Gaussian! The golfer didn’t make the shot, the loud amps distracted him.

Yes. I have one main pedal board and actually have a full second board. Plus I have more pedals that don’t have a home on a board. I’ve been considering converting to a digital processor to free up the boards. Haven’t got there yet. Can’t find exactly what I’m looking for yet.

Yes, and backs were not carved. Original models were H158 like you described, later versions were H155.

Had a chance to visit the Ranch today and play some rare Heritages through some best Marshall style amps money can buy. H157 Custom H137 Korina H535 Custom. The sounds were glorious and the guitars did not disappoint.

Finally had some time to meet up with KBP today and took delivery of this outstanding amp. Brian completely gutted this amp and made it into something special. Circuit design is based upon a Fender Princeton Reverb however at a very loud yet remarkably clean 40 watts. He amber lacquered the old worn tweed covering and upgraded the speaker to a Warehouse WGSGT12C/S. For an added touch, it also has a custom control plate, effectively renaming the amp,”Detroit Blues Deluxe”

If memory serves, there was a point where Heritage felt it was the shops responsibility to finalize the setup work. Nut and frets. Quality varied guitar to guitar, especially depending on the season. The paint booth was just a closet next to an open window. No temperature or humidity controls. Post 2016, with new ownership with the funds to invest into the business, many of these things changed for the better regardless of what some of the legacy members feel.

Last year I foolishly traded away a Marshall DSL20C for an old Fender Blues Deluxe. Amp was worn physically on its old tweed coverings. Sounded fine when I played it and after a couple gigs. I made a mistake of taking it to a local shop for a broken input jack replacement and was convinced to have it fully serviced. Reflow some soldering points, new caps, tubes, etc. 2 gigs later amp dies, no sound. Multiple rounds with the tech and nothing was fixed. In fact, the amp was worse. Almost had it repaired by another person when a chance conversation brought up options with this amp with the man himself, Mr. KBP810. While he is no longer a resident of the 810 nor is he still building amazing amps, he decided to take a stab at the amp, found some rather questionable problems with the amp. Asked what’s easier, fix it or use it as a shell and build anew. Choice was to build. Free rein on the design, he chose a Princeton Reverb circuit beefed up to a 40 watt-ish power rating. To add to the fun he also lacquered the cabinet too. He finished it up, need to figure out the logistics to pick it up…

While it was reported that Bandlab bought the rights to Manny’s music earlier this month, most didn’t realize this opened the floodgates for Heritage retail. Now Bandlab has the means for distribution in the United States, the Heritage Ascent Lineup is here. The first model so far released is the H137. This is not the typical construction nor is it made in the Kalamazoo. The model features a bolt-on maple neck construction, Okoume body, laurel fingerboard? 24 3/4" scale length, 12" fingerboard radius, and medium jumbo frets. Wrap around tailpiece and available in either Humbuckers or soapbar P90’s. Three color options black, sunburst, TV yellow. Its more like a H120 from the 1980’s, but its real and $175. Its hard to find them on the Bandlab app, but it’s there. On the app, check for “deals”, click on Mannys music and you’ll find them. I think they are made in the same place as PRS SE models, but not 100%

I can definitely relate to with my own past and present experiences with a band. Ultimately family comes first and if the thrill is gone.... Well, you know the rest. Best to move on, I bet there will be days you'll miss it. But I think when you're building memories of family, you'll find you don't miss it all.

Thank you all!

Good luck with the weight loss, I struggle myself. It's hard to stay the course. I find my Tele Style Guitar (Reverend Buckshot) is my favorite guitar, I think I'd rather have a Tele than a Strat. It just feels right.

So as a band, you're taking in 350 Euros or individually? Either way, live music must fare better over there than here... We'd wish to make that much. Most I ever made was $80. Least I made was $8. Average was maybe $20 for four hours... But the important thing is doing what you love.