Mesa Boogie Electra Dyne User Manual
Owner’s Manual
Hello from the Tone Farm
Congratulations on your choice of the ELECTRA DYNE™ and welcome to the Mesa/Boogie Family! The instrument you have chosen introduces a new realm of performance and
versatility to the Single Channel format by combining the best attributes of a simplistic
control layout with hidden internal layers of authentic circuit switching. The result is a
collection of iconic, vintage-inspired amplifiers built into one chassis you can control with
six knobs and a toggle switch. You can also footswitch between these circuits and, though
there may be slight compromises, the sounds coexist on one set of controls well enough
to turn this Single Channel platform into a Three Mode live performance vehicle. The
ELECTRA DYNE, hand-built in Petaluma by MESA (the original Boutique shop) will
inevitably redefine what players who follow the Boutique world come to expect from an
amplifier.
Our 40 year commitment to excellence along with our solemn promise to musicians - to
treat each of them as we ourselves would wish to be treated - guarantees you an experience
that will make you feel truly justified in your choice. We’re confident your new amplifier
will have you smiling and inspired within minutes of plugging in for the first time. However, what’s really gratifying is that you will be finding new and inspiring sounds years
after the price of admission has faded from memory and the ELECTRA DYNE continues
to unveil its true worth.
It’s with our sincere thanks for trusting us with your TONE and our best wishes for all
your musical endeavors that we welcome you home. Should you ever need assistance or
guidance we’re here to help. You now have in your hands an instrument of limitless expression. Our hope is that it takes you and your playing to new and unimagined places
throughout your musical journey. From all of us here at MESA…Enjoy!
READ AND FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS OF PROPER USAGE.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Read these instructions.
Keep these instructions.
Heed all warnings.
Follow all instructions.
Do not use this apparatus near water.
Clean only with dry cloth.
Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug
has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet,
consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug
is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally,
or has been dropped.
To insure proper ventilation always make sure there is at minimum four inches (101.6mm) of space behind the rear of the apparatus. The ventilation should not
be impeded by covering the ventilation openings with items, such as newspapers, tablecloths, curtains, etc. Do not impede ventilation by placing objects on top
of the apparatus which extend past the rear edge of its cabinet.
No naked flame sources, such as lighted candles, should be placed on the apparatus.
The apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing and no objects filled with liquids, such as vases, shall be placed on the apparatus.
WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture.
The AC plug is the mains disconnect. The plug should remain accessible after installation.
WARNING: EU: permission from the Supply Authority is needed before connection.
WARNING: Always make sure proper load is connected before operating the amplifier. Failure to do so could pose a shock hazard and may result in damage
to the amplifier.
Do not expose amplifier to direct sunlight or extremely high temperatures.
Always insure the amplifier is properly grounded. Always unplug AC power cord before changing fuse, tubes or removing chassis. Use only same type and
rating when replacing fuse.
Avoid direct contact with heated tubes. Keep amplifier away from children.
To avoid damaging your speakers and other playback equipment, turn off the power of all related equipment before making the connections.
Do not use excessive force when handling buttons, switches and controls. Do not use solvents such as benzene or paint thinner to clean the unit.
Always connect to an AC power supply that meets the power supply specifications listed on the rear of the unit. Export models: always insure unit is wired for
proper voltage. Make certain grounding conforms with local standards.
YOUR AMPLIFIER IS LOUD! EXPOSURE TO HIGH SOUND VOLUMES MAY CAUSE PERMANENT HEARING DAMAGE!
Your Mesa/Boogie Amplifier is a professional instrument. Please treat it with respect and operate it properly.
Table of Contents
Precautions _______________________________________________________________________________ 0
Overview ________________________________________________________________________________ 1-2
Before You Start __________________________________________________________________________ 3-4
FRONT PANEL CONTROLS & FEATURES
MODES: CLEAN, VINTAGE LO, VINTAGE HI ____________________________________________________ 5-7
VOLUME _______________________________________________________________________________ 8-10
TREBLE ______________________________________________________________________________ 10-12
MID __________________________________________________________________________________ 12-13
BASS _________________________________________________________________________________ 13-14
PRESENCE _______________________________________________________________________________ 14
MASTER ______________________________________________________________________________ 14-15
STANDBY ________________________________________________________________________________ 15
POWER _______________________________________________________________________________ 15-16
REAR PANEL CONTROLS, SWITCHES & JACKS
FUSE ____________________________________________________________________________________ 17
EFFECTS LOOP ___________________________________________________________________________ 17
REVERB _________________________________________________________________________________ 18
FT. SW. (FOOTSWITCH) _____________________________________________________________________ 18
BIAS SELECT __________________________________________________________________________ 18-19
SPEAKERS: 8 OHM / 4 OHM _________________________________________________________________ 19
SLAVE OUTPUT / LEVEL____________________________________________________________________ 19
CLEAN LEVEL ____________________________________________________________________________ 20
GAIN TRIM ____________________________________________________________________________ 20-21
DIAGNOSING TUBE PROBLEMS __________________________________________________________ 22-23
BIAS ADJUSTMENT ARTICLE ____________________________________________________________ 24-26
SPEAKER IMPEDANCE MATCHING AND HOOKUP GUIDE _____________________________________ 27-32
FEATURE ARTICLE: ON PENTODES, TRIODES & IRISHMEN by Randall Smith ____________________ 33-35
TUBE TASK CHART - ELECTRA DYNE HEAD ___________________________________________________ 36
TUBE TASK CHART - ELECTRA DYNE COMBO _________________________________________________ 37
PART SHEET - HEAD _______________________________________________________________________ 38
PART SHEET - COMBO _____________________________________________________________________ 39
Operating Instructions
FUSE
BYPASS
ON
HI
LO
ON
MODE
DEFEAT
6L6
EL-34
EL-34
8 OHM
4 OHM
SEND RETURN REVERB FT. SW. BIAS SELECT SPEAKERS SLAVE LEVEL
RED=EL 34
LOOP NOTE:
LOOP IS
HARD BYPASSED
WHEN NOT IN USE
100/120~
50/60 Hz
4 A
4 A
SLO
BLO
ALL-TUBE AMPLIFIER
FUSE
GAIN TRIM
NORMAL
HI/LO
CLEAN
CLEAN LEVEL
TRIM BYPASS
INPUT
FT. SW.
CLEAN
HI
LOW
FT. SW.
VOLUME
TREBLE
MID
BASS
PRESENCE
MASTER
45W
90W
O
STANDBY
ON
Simul-Class 45 / 90
POWE R
Ov e r v i e w :
At a glance you can see that the control layout of your Electra Dyne is straightforward and simple. This was intentional and a prime directive
in the design goal. What you don’t see is that when you select one of the three Modes on the MODE SELECT mini-toggle you are completely
reconfiguring the circuit architecture and in fact, selecting separate and complete amplifiers! These are interfaced to the control’s separate
ganged (stacked) pot elements so that circuit authenticity is maintained and footswitchablity between the circuits is made possible.
The Modes represent three of the most classic guitar amp circuits that remain at the forefront of virtually all musical styles. The “black face era”
inspired CLEAN Mode delivers the low gain sweet, sparkling chording sounds that originally put Fullerton, CA. on the Tone map. This time
proven circuit has been revisited, scrutinized and feel-optimized to create an even more luscious clean voice that gets further enhanced by the
curvaceous magic of the Simul-Class Power section. Our patented output scheme blanches out harsh frequencies and enhances the beautiful
even-order harmonics and sub-low breath.
From there the Electra Dyne jumps across the pond to pay tribute to the classic British circuits with the medium gain punch of VINTAGE LO.
The input is routed to a separate input tube, a different set of pots and a whole different signal path dishes out Classic Rock with new and exciting levels of nuance. This LO Mode is amazing for medium gain crunch chording and when cranked, will saturate without losing it’s aggressive
attack and chesty thump. While this sound is instantly familiar, it beckons with a new and intriguing voice that is created when the classic Brit
chunk meets the sophistication and cultured poise of Simul-Class. Both Tone and feel develop a new personality that retains the best attributes
of the Brit-style impact and attitude, but here the trademark sound hits in a more palatable form… like a leather-wrapped baseball bat or… a
velvet hammer.
Selecting VINTAGE HI unveils a new take on the custom-modified British theme and connects your hands to a pressure-squeezed firehose of
liquid, molten gain. More tube stages are added and circuitry flipped to create this Boogie-ized, Simul-Class rendering of a modified English
amp that’s been pumped for every drop of the precious tube nectar. This Mode produces crunch chords of unusual size and harmonic spread,
while single note sounds soar and sing with barely recognizable focus and body given its gritty lineage. Simul-Class continues to work its
mysterious magic here, smoothing the rough edges while protecting the basic character to create a truly inspiring new plateau of Brit-based
performance.
FRONT VIEW: Electra Dyne 45/90 Combo
REAR VIEW: Electra Dyne 45/90 Combo
™
™
PAGE 1
Ov e r v i e w : (Continued)
These three classic circuits can be switched through via the included Footswitch and, if settings are crafted with priority in mind, a surprisingly low level of
compromise is experienced even while great footswitching performance attained. There may always be some small level of compromise between the
sounds, but given the simplicity of navigation and the quality of Tone achieved, the Electra Dyne wins hands down in the most Tone for the least Tweak
arena.
A half-power option appears on the POWER SWITCH and gives you a choice of 90 watts of Simul-Class Power – where one pair of the stock 6L6’s run
in Class AB and one pair run in Extended Class A. 45 watts turns off the outer pair of 6L6s so only the middle two are running. These are the ones with
the lowered bias so, while they are still Class AB, their Class A region is extended.
Starting all the way to the left of the Rear Panel (Head Version) reside two features that increase the footswitching flexibility of the ELECTRA DYNE for
live performance.
The first is a CLEAN LEVEL TRIM Control that allows you to decrease the output level of the CLEAN Mode in relation to the VINTAGE LO and HI Modes.
This helps to fine tune the sounds so that the balance of the Modes can be adjusted over a wider range of volume levels.
The second feature is a Mode specific GAIN TRIM switch located just below (or just above on Combo Version) the CLEAN LEVEL TRIM Control. This
3 position allows you to configure the Modes to best suit either low or high gain styles. Players who need high gain settings in VINTAGE LO and HI can
“trim” the gain in the CLEAN to ensure ample headroom for their clean sound, conversely - players who need a sweet, fat rhythm in CLEAN can “trim” the
gain in VINTAGE LO and HI for a lower gain Blues sound.
All tube REVERB control rides on the Rear Panel and paints a lush, ambient landscape around these three sounds. This feature enhances not only the
chiming CLEAN Mode, but also helps transform the occasionally brash nature of the LO and HI gain circuits into sounds that can travel effortlessly across
stylistic boundaries. There is also a HARD BYPASS that removes all REVERB circuitry, including the tube stages, from the signal path for the Brit minded
purist who wants the harder hitting dry version untouched by wet hands. With the REVERB circuit engaged, there is a choice between active in all modes
and an auto-defeat feature which allows you to use the REVERB on two of the sounds – CLEAN and your choice of LO or HI – should you want to keep
either your crunch rhythm or lead sound dry while having your CLEAN still wet. There is also a ¼” jack on the underside of the chassis that responds to
tip-to-ground logic should you want to turn the REVERB on and off with a separate (not included) footswitch.
The Rear Panel BIAS SELECT allows you to swap the stock quartet of 6L6 for a quartet of the brighter sounding EL34 type power tubes. This classic
British tube delivers greater accentuation of the upper harmonics and produces a low end this is somewhat stripped of sub-lows and therefore can sound
tighter for certain styles. We recommend the stock compliment of 6L6 for the greatest versatility and warmth and all three Modes. NOTE: BIAS SELECT
switch MUST MATCH THE TUBES IN USE AT ALL TIMES! Failure to comply with this could result in damage to your amplifier that will not be covered
under warranty.
EXTERNAL SWITCH jacks on the Rear Panel allow control of the Modes from a remote master switching unit and respond to standard ¼” tip-to-ground
latching logic. This feature allows for interfacing the Electra Dyne into a large stage rig where everything is called up remotely under (usually midi)
programs in a master switcher.
SPEAKER IMPEDANCE is selected via a Rear Panel mini toggle and provides for two 8 Ohm or two 4 Ohm jacks. Standard MESA cabinets are either
an 8 or 4 Ohm load. To use the Electra Dyne with 16 Ohm loads, connect them using the 8 Ohm position. When using two 16 Ohm cabinets, also
connect them to the 8 Ohm jacks. Always check that your SPEAKER IMPEDANCE switch is set to match the load in use. Improper matching will either
prevent the amplifier from producing full power or cause the amplifier to run hot and wear the power tubes prematurely.
A SLAVE Output is provided to capture the entire sound (both preamp and power section) of the amplifier so that it can feed an effects rack or additional
power amplifiers for big venue applications. This feed is a padded-down version of the signal taken from the SPEAKER Output and does not provide any
roll-off of top end or other shaping that would be preferable for using the Electra Dyne direct into a recording console.
That covers a global look at the features of the Electra Dyne and you are now ready to get more specific about the controls and their role in shaping the
sounds you are looking for.
PAGE 2
BeFOre YOU STArT:
INPUT
FT. SW.
CLEAN
HI
LOW
FT. SW.
VOLUME
TREBLE
MID
BASS
PRESENCE
MASTER
45W
90W
O
STANDBY
ON
Simul-Class 45 / 90
POWE R
SAMPLE SETTING:
Here’s a quick setting that will give you a quick tour of the basic sound of the Modes in the Electra Dyne.
HELPFUL HINTS:
When unpacking your 1. Electra Dyne be sure to remove the plastic webbing from the power tubes before powering up the amplifier.
Cut the cable tie that holds the AC Power Cord to the Rear Tube Cover and connect it to a Grounded AC wall socket.2.
Connect the Stereo ¼” Footswitch Cable to the Front Panel ¼” jack labeled FOOTSWITCH using the supplied Stereo Cable.3.
Set the amplifier (and at least one speaker cabinet) on the floor you will be standing (or sitting on) while playing to complete the 4.
coupling circle that occurs. This will make the amplifier sound better, as well as feel better to play, because the sympathetic loop
created by the transmission from your hands to the guitar to the amp to your guitar to your hands remains unbroken.
Remember that when you are setting up the controls for Mode Switching with the Footswitch, using the controls in their middle 5.
to upper middle ranges (11:00 – 2:00) will provide the best Tone and volume levels between the Modes. This region helps the
compromise between sounds remain as small as possible.
The controls are built with ganged (stacked element) pots, which ensures the Modes are true to their classic circuits. This also 6.
allows for custom tapers of the controls - which are optimized for both the Tone of the particular Mode – and for the footswitchable compatibility with the other Modes. May we suggest that you dial by ear and don’t stick firmly to your experience with other
amplifiers
Some of the controls used in the CLEAN Mode are fitted with pots that have a very slow taper to aid in footswitchability between 7.
Modes. This is so that when you’re using higher VOLUME settings (2:00 -3:00) in VINTAGE HI for lead or crunch rhythm work,
and then footswitch back to CLEAN, you will have substantial headroom for clean chording. In CLEAN, the VOLUME and BASS
controls in particular utilize this scheme and come on more gradually. Keep this in mind when dialing up sounds in CLEAN and
don’t be afraid to set these controls slightly higher (approx. 1/3) to achieve the results you are used to with other amplifiers.
Use the Rear Panel CLEAN LEVEL TRIM Control to decrease the volume (loudness) of the CLEAN Mode in relation to the 8.
VINTAGE LO and HI Modes if you find that is too loud for the (lower) volumes you are playing at in smaller venues or at home.
This is not an independent MASTER – thus the “TRIM” designation - and can not increase the level of the CLEAN Mode above
that set on the Front Panel MASTER Control.
PAGE 3
BeFOre YOU STArT: (Continued)
HELPFUL HINTS: (Continued)
Use the Rear Panel GAIN TRIM Switch to fine tune the gain structure of the Modes for footswitching at times when you would 9.
normally set the VOLUME control toward either extreme end of its range… i.e. fully saturated Rock sounds or low gain edge-ofclip Blues sounds. Follow the examples below to get familiar with the uses for the GAIN TRIM switch.
In the first example, the CLEAN Mode would normally be clipped and breaking up with the VOLUME set this high for solo sounds
in VINTAGE LO and HI.
In the second example, the VINTAGE LO and HI Modes would normally be too saturated for low gain solo sounds with the VOLUME set in this range for the desired sound in the CLEAN Mode.
1) For High Gain/Clean applications set VOLUME at 3:00 – 5:00 and select GAIN TRIM: CLEAN to auto-decrease the gain
(VOLUME Control) and increase headroom in the CLEAN Mode.
2) For Low Gain/Clean applications set VOLUME at 12:30 – 2:00 and select GAIN TRIM: VINTAGE HI/LO to auto-decrease the
gain (VOLUME Control) in the VINTAGE LO and HI Modes.
The bass frequencies in CLEAN are lower than that of the other two Modes and the inclusion of these sub-low frequencies make 10.
the BASS control seem more powerful than that of the LO and HI Modes. As mentioned above, steps were taken to minimize
the footswitching compromises and the BASS has a more gradual taper for CLEAN. To produce huge low end in CLEAN you
will have to run the BASS above 2:00.
For maximum attack, tight low end and aggression, HARD BYPASS the REVERB circuit. The addition of the REVERB TUBE 11.
and circuitry warms things up a bit and slows down the attack ever so slightly.
Avoid extreme high settings (4:30-5:30) of the VOLUME and REVERB at the same time – especially in VINTAGE LO and HI - 12.
when using the REVERB. These settings will introduce a slight buzzy sound in the REVERB as the extreme gain goes through
the spring of the REVERB tank. This is normal and no cause for alarm. It can be easily avoided by simply turning the REVERB
down a bit as you approach the top of the VOLUME controls’ range.
Use the 45 watt POWER setting on the Front Panel POWER switch to achieve clipped sounds at the top end of the VOLUME 13.
control in the CLEAN Mode.
The TREBLE control is effective at adding additional gain to clipped sounds in CLEAN with the VOLUME cranked (5:30). Try 14.
setting the TREBLE higher (2:00 – 3:00) and reduce the PRESENCE and MID to achieve more warmth.
There is substantial top end carried in the MID control along with the midrange frequencies it adjusts. Some like to run the MID 15.
higher and then reduce top end at either the TREBLE or PRESENCE controls.
Now that you have an overview of the features of your Electra Dyne, let’s get specific with the modes and controls to help you better
understand how to get the sounds you are looking for and apply them to your music.
PAGE 4
FrONT PANeL: CO N T r O L S & Fe A T U r e S
CLEAN
HI
LOW
FT. SW.
CLEAN
HI
LOW
FT. SW.
THE MODES:
While the Electra Dyne appears to most as a simple Single Channel amp, the sparse Front Panel layout hides a vault of circuitry that
gives you the power and performance of a Three Channel footswitching amplifier. The three Modes found on the Mode Select mini
toggle are each completely separate preamps. They share some of the same tube stages but the signal path and circuitry changes
radically when you change from mode to mode. The Electra Dyne ushers in a new era of powerful gig-ability combined with interface
simplicity by using ganged (stacked element) pots so that one row of controls can adjust more than one circuit. Custom designed
tapers on these pots allow a surprising amount of independence between the Modes. Though there will likely be some settings that
create compromises on one or more of the sounds for some – with the controls set in their medium ranges - most players discover a
high degree of success switching across the Modes in performance situations. The Electra Dyne was created to fit the needs of a
certain player profile… namely those who want to keep their tweaking to a minimum and still maintain as much flexibility as possible.
For these guitarists the Electra Dyne creates a whole new realm of easy to dial choices that can be footswitched between without
losing that set-it-and-forget-it attitude.
CLEAN:
This is the lowest gain of the three Modes in the Electra Dyne and is based on the classic California “black face” era circuits. It also
draws heavily from our MARK I and MARK V Boogie clean modes - where it inherits the sweetness and springy, bouncy attack charac-
teristics. This Mode is aimed at vintage-inspired clean rhythm playing and produces sparkling top end harmonics,
articulate but never harsh mids and deep fundamental low end that breathes with three-dimensional air.
Lower settings of the VOLUME control (10:30 – 1:30) will allow more of the top end harmonics to slip through
the circuit and produce a stripped, skinny sound that is perfect for R&B and Country styles. As the VOLUME is
increased past this range, more rich low mids and bass will start to appear, rounding out and filling in the sound.
This range is great for Rock clean rhythm sounds where more punch and attitude are in order. With the VOLUME
maxed (5:30) the sound is fat with low mid girth and, depending on the pickups being used, headroom is minimal and you are most
likely going to experience some tube clip in the preamp. If the amp is being played loud you may be clipping both the preamp and
the power section. If you wish to emphasize this clip characteristic and really get things breaking up in the CLEAN Mode switch the
POWER switch down to 45 watts and you will attain more clip at a lower overall volume level.
The taper of the pot used for the VOLUME control in the CLEAN Mode is very slow and gain is increased very gradually from the
bottom of the pot (7:30) throughout the first 2/3 of its taper (2:00). Above this range (2:30 – 5:30) gain starts to increase more rapidly
and there is somewhat less resolution available as the gain fills in the sound. This is necessary to allow for higher settings of the
VOLUME control in VINTAGE LO and VINTAGE HI Modes – where most players find their favorite higher gain sounds – and still create
a viable footswitching scenario. Thanks to this slow taper in the CLEAN VOLUME pot you can have a saturated lead sound in HI, an
aggressive ROCK crunch rhythm in LO, and still have enough headroom available for a nice sweet clean sound in the CLEAN Mode.
Most players have good luck making all three Modes work by setting the VOLUME control somewhere in the 1:00 – 3:00 range. This
range will be affected by pickup strength and string gauge as well.
VINTAGE LO:
This Mode makes the biggest leap in circuit architecture and jumps across the Atlantic to pay tribute to the best of the classic Brit
crunch. LO takes a big step up from CLEAN on the gain scale, but in the greater scheme of the entire amp, it’s the pivotal in-between
mode that segues from clean to high gain sounds.
PAGE 5
FrONT PANeL: CO N T r O L S & Fe A T U r e S (Continued)
CLEAN
HI
LOW
FT. SW.
VINTAGE LO: (Continued)
Lower settings of the VOLUME control will produce sounds ranging from a mid-focus, punchy clean
(9:00 – 10:30) to iconic Brit Rock crunch (ala AC/DC) in the 11:00 – 1:30 region. From there gain starts to come on faster as you
crank up the VOLUME control and tour through some great mildly-saturated Blues sounds (1:30 – 3:00) and finally, wind it up all the
way to a burning vintage lead voice (3:15 – 5:30). VINTAGE LO is possibly the most iconic sound in the Electra Dyne and various
renditions of this circuit are probably the most recorded sounds in Classic Rock and Roll.
However, far from an imitation of this circuit, the Electra Dyne preamp has been given a huge dose of magic in many areas (some
trade secrets that we can’t speak of) and the sound, feel on the strings and uncompromising build quality far exceed what you will ever
find in an overpriced vintage relic. This preamp also feeds our patented Simul-Class™ power section! This heaping-helping of sonic
super-sauce makes this classic-inspired preamp come to life in a sweet and soulful way no amp from either side of the Atlantic ever
has before. Whether you load this hyper-tuned harness with EL-34’s for a skinnier Brit clip or you leave the stock quartet of 6L6’s in for
a fuller voice, Simul serves up a new frontier of expressive sounds… definitely English in heritage, but pure MESA in performance.
VINTAGE HI:
This Mode pays tribute to the modified British circuits that began to sprout up in the early 80’s in the aftermath of our MARK I and
MARK II amplifiers. The MARK I Boogies had been around long enough to get people re-thinking what an American amp was - and
some began wondering what that same treatment would do to a stock U.K. circuit. Mod-men in Southern California
started adding more tube stages - and more gain - to the stock Brit circuits of the day and created another iconic
sound from England by way of Los Angeles.
We followed this line of thinking for the Electra Dyne, but took the modified theme to every area of the circuit – as
we always do – to improve focus, musicality, feel and switchable performance and here the modified Brit sound
reaches a new pinnacle. This rendition can cross musical boundaries where its predecessors could not, sounding
violin sweet or, with a twist of a knob unleash a fire-breathing monster. It’s touch sensitive and extremely dynamic at the low end of
the spectrum and retains incredible focus and definition at higher gain settings.
VINTAGE HI produces the most gain of the three Modes in the Electra Dyne and would be considered by most the lead Mode, but
for today’s heavier music, this is also the go-to Mode for crunch rhythm as well. However, before this high range begins, where layers
of tight gain saturate the notes completely, HI picks up a little below where the highest region of VINTAGE LO leaves off.
In this range of the VOLUME control (9:00 – 12:00) HI purrs with a creamy - yet still percussive - blend of subtle saturation and instant dynamics. This region is perfect for soulful Blues rhythm or solo work and interfaces beautifully with the lush ambience of the
REVERB. This range is also great for the non-footswitching crowd that prefers backing off and rolling up on the guitar’s Volume knob
for their clean/drive sounds. Here the instruments’ personality remains intact and it can double for a pushed clean that has more low
mid body and girth than would a similar setting in VINTAGE LO.
Dialing up from there on the VOLUME introduces more saturation and the notes begin to hang with harmonic complexity and increased
sustain. This range (12:30 – 2:30) is where most rock soloists will find the best blend of tight attack mixed with voice-like sustain.
Here the strings feel easy to play and there is ample gain to create virtually any texture and color you wish using the TREBLE and
PRESENCE as your attack/bright compass and the MID and Bass to round things out and add body.
NOTE: There is a substantial amount of upper harmonic content in this region (anywhere above 1:30 on up to 5:30) and some pickups
showcase/handle this better than others. Higher output humbucking pickups tend to benefit from this layer of harmonics –sounding
more open and three-dimensional. Weaker humbuckers and single coils – especially in the bridge position – can get thin and edgy
or buzzy as the top end loses the definition and they don’t have quite the low-end body to add balance this top end spectrum.
PAGE 6
FrONT PANeL: CO N T r O L S & Fe A T U r e S (Continued)
You will have to experiment with your individual guitar and learn how its output and EQ are interpreted by the gain available in this
higher range. If you discover that it is too bright for your application, may we suggest running the TREBLE and PRESENCE rather
low. If these low settings interfere with your Channel switching needs, might we suggest listening to a different guitar with hotter pickups or trying some different pickups in your instrument. You might discover a whole new world of sounds that are more focused and
cohesive and that respond to amp gain in a whole different way. Generally speaking, as the output goes up with more windings, the
top end recedes and a warmer sound appears - one with a more forward midrange and richer low end - as the dominant character.
This will enable you to use the full range of TREBLE and PRESENCE to achieve sounds that are much more balanced and open
without introducing thinness or buzz on the top.
Some players prefer to alter the way their guitar hits the first in the string of tubes by introducing an overdrive pedal into the signal
path to deal with the lack of focus resulting from weaker, more vintage style pickups. This will usually lop off the top end and add gain
in the midrange, adding focus to the notes, albeit in a different way. This is one way of dealing with the situation but it does alter the
delicate and magical relationship between the guitar’s magnetic field and the grid of the first preamp tube. Some like the result and
for those we are pleased that such a quick remedy is available. This will not cause any harm to the Electra Dyne and is a perfectly
fine solution.
For those who prefer the purity of the pickup-straight-to-tube connection (we certainly do) and its symbiotic relationship that retains
the greatest dynamic/harmonic content, a little more experimentation may be required to achieve the golden note.
The highest range of the VOLUME (2:30 – 5:30) is all about singing, searing gain. Here the attack is more compressed and a flow
of liquid harmonic overdrive pours forth in a wall of sound. Forget about the Blues or any other threshold of drive style, this sound is
about grind and shred. Rhythm sounds here definitely need a hot pickup to handle the fury and turn it into tight crunch. Solo sounds
soar with harmonic layers that stack up to the stratosphere and sustain without end.
This type and amount of gain sets the stage perfectly for notes to jump harmonics in octave increments and feedback in a continuously morphing display of top end complexity and nuance. Again use the TREBLE and PRESENCE to shape the basic identity of
the sound and then fill it in to taste with the MID and BASS. Keep in mind that the MID control carries a substantial amount of top
end that is different (slightly lower) than that of the TREBLE control and you can really fine tune the voice of lead (and crunch rhythm)
sounds by trading “a little of this with a little of that” from these closely related controls.
The higher region of the VINTAGE HI Mode showcases the difference in the frequency of low end between the CLEAN Mode and
VINTAGE LO and HI. The two gain Modes utilize a higher frequency of bottom end and therefore can put much more of it to use
without getting overwhelmed and flubby. This higher low has a resonant thump that hits hard and punches in the chest - as opposed
to the sub-low pant-leg-flap that is dominant in the CLEAN - where lower bottom end is needed to produce rich air and breathing
three-dimensionality. So don’t hesitate to dial in a bit more of this higher low end. It won’t slow down the attack on single note solo
sounds or get bloated on crunch rhythm work. It stays tightly glued to the notes (chords) and hits in an aggressive, focused way.
This difference is yet another way that the two VINTAGE gain Modes come together with CLEAN to create the an amazing platform for
expression, the sweetest cleans sharing the chassis with the ultimate tight, aggressive Rock thump. No matter what your into, even if
this higher range is not your main bag, it’s fun to check out the wild and woolly world created by this radical high gain Mode. Enjoy!
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FrONT PANeL: CO N T r O L S
CLEAN
HI
LOW
VOLUME
TREBLE
MID
BASS
PRESENCE
MASTER
45W
90W
O
STANDBY
ON
Simul-Class 45 / 90
POWE R
GAIN TRIM
NORMAL
HI/LO
CLEAN
CLEAN LEVEL
TRIM BYPASS
Now that you have a better understanding of the Modes, let’s take a look at the individual controls and how they interact to create the
sounds you are looking for.
VOLUME:
This is the most powerful control in the Electra Dyne and its setting determines the style and personality of all three
Modes. It meters the gain in different tube stages depending on the Mode called up and sets Input headroom - which determines
whether the sound will be clean or overdriven. It also acts as a subtle Tone control as the gain is increased
and decreased and imparts its own color on the sound.
This control utilizes a ganged (stacked element) pot that allows one setting of the knob to have different
electronic settings of the actual VOLUME location for different locations in the circuit. We worked relentlessly to fine tune the custom designed pots to have tapers that would facilitate the way most players
want to utilize the Modes. Because of this you can have the VOLUME set at one setting and footswitch
between the Modes with surprising accuracy.
There will inevitably be certain portions of the range that work better for you than others, but within a basic gain scheme - for example
clean rhythm/mid-gain crunch/singing lead - this one control can do a great job… especially given its simplicity. This will allow you to
have at least two or three regions of the control – one low gain vibe at about 12:00, one more saturated sound around 2:00 and one
high gain sound-set somewhere in the 3:30 range – that work well for switching across three sounds at reasonably close (depending
on pickup choices) output volumes.
REAR PANEL GAIN TRIM:
A GAIN TRIM switch is fitted to the Rear Panel to fine-tune the gain structure of the Modes so that
when footswitching between the Modes, the compromise between sounds is minimized. This 3-position switch is located just below
(or above depending on the Head/Combo format) the CLEAN LEVEL control and allows you to trim back the gain
(VOLUME Control) automatically in either CLEAN or VINTAGE LO and HI. In either case the result is like turning down
the VOLUME control approximately “3 numbers on the clock face”.
The center position of the switch is a BYPASS labeled NORMAL and when set here the Modes respond normally
meaning that their gain structure is unaffected by the switch and the VOLUME control works as you would expect it to
with an even sweep that will reach the full gain amount possible in the given mode.
The CLEAN (left) position knocks down the gain in the CLEAN Mode so that when you need a high VOLUME setting for very saturated
sounds in VINTAGE LO and HI you can use this setting to footswitch back to a sound in CLEAN that has reduced gain and therefore
ample headroom to avoid clipping.
The VINTAGE LO and HI (right) position knocks down the gain in the VINTAGE LO and HI Modes so that when you set the VOLUME
control at 12:30 – 2:00 for a warm, sweet sound in CLEAN - you can use this setting to switch over to a solo or crunch rhythm sound
in VINTAGE LO and HI that is not too saturated.
With either position selected, the VOLUME control will respond with the sweep and character that this reduction in gain creates - with the
top of the control “maxing out” at approximately “3 numbers less gain” available… roughly 2/3 of the normal “untrimmed” amount.
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FrONT PANeL: CO N T r O L S (Continued)
CLEAN
HI
LO
VOLUME
CLEAN
HI
LOW
VOLUME
VOLUME - CLEAN MODE:
In the CLEAN Mode the element uses a very gradual (slow) taper that allows higher settings before
the gain reaches a point where soft clip or break-up occurs. This allows you to run the knob higher and achieve a sound in both the
Vintage LO and HI Modes that will have enough gain to saturate the notes for crunch rhythm and lead –
and still have ample headroom for a beautiful chording sound in CLEAN. A VOLUME setting in the 2:00
range seems to provide a great example of this scenario for most people. You will most likely have to
work with your guitar’s volume control and pickups a little to exploit these settings to their fullest, but this
range is where you will likely find the highest degree of footswitchable success.
NOTE: To footswitch between low gain Blues/Roots/R&B sounds in HI/LO and the best headroom and
warmth in CLEAN: Set VOLUME control at 2:00 and select HI/LO on Rear Panel GAIN TRIM switch. This
will optimize the CLEAN Mode and reduce the gain in HI/LO from (an “untrimmed”) VOLUME control setting of 2:00, to approximately
11:00 (with TRIM engaged) where purring lower gain sounds with increased dynamics are found.
The VOLUME control in the CLEAN Mode is fitted with a “Bright” capacitor that adds upper harmonic sparkle and shimmer to clean
chording sounds and is critical to attaining a beautiful clean voice. The Bright is most effective where you need it most – below 2:00
on the control where the gain has not yet been applied in such quantity as to create clipping. This works out well as the frequencies
enhanced by this cap are not particularly pleasing when a clipped sound is applied where they can get thin, shrill or buzzy. As the
VOLUME is increased past 2:00 and the full resistance of the pot is approached the Bright cap has a diminished effect until at 5:30
the cap is rendered useless. So as you crank the CLEAN Mode all the way up there is no extra top end harmonics thinning out your
pushed rhythm sound or buzzing up your Bluesy lead voice.
The same element is used for both VINTAGE LO and HI Modes as the circuits are much more closely related and their resistance
requirements are the same. The taper here is faster and closer to a normal resolution - in other words - more like what you may have
experienced in other amplifiers.
VOLUME - VINTAGE LO & HI MODE:
In LO the gain comes on gradually and this Mode represents more of a stock interpretation
– gain-wise - of the classic British circuits. It can be used for a wide range of applications from a slight break-up to a grinding crunch
rhythm to a classic lead sound and can even be used for “alternate clean” sounds in roughly the 9:00 –
11:00 range. From that point on, gain increases to the overdrive threshold and saturation begins.
Some nice Bluesy rhythm and lead sounds are found in the 11:00 – 1:30 range with weaker vintage-style
pickups. For these sounds you can increase the TREBLE for additional gain, and the BASS for low air and
fullness without the concerns for harsh or tubby sounds. Here the gain is still low enough to handle the
extra signal from the Tone controls. Using hotter pickups in this region - especially bridge position - will
produce some tight, classic Rock crunch rhythm sounds. These will also allow you to do the “old-school
channel switching” routine where you back off the guitar’s volume pot for clean, and crank it up for medium gain leads. The upper
region (1:30 – 5:30) provides a smooth increase in gain and upper harmonics that give you great urgent, dynamic rhythm and lead
sounds that are aggressive, but not overly saturated. There is still plenty of attack and definition and a little more stripped, less midgain enhanced character here than that of the VINTAGE HI Mode. It will allow more of your guitar’s personality to shine through and
it has a more “vintage” curve to the EQ character.
In VINTAGE HI the gain comes on slow and tight in the lowest region (9:00 – 10:30) of the VOLUME control and offers some amazing medium gain sounds that are unique and different than those found in LO. Great howling Blues sounds of a different color and
feel than LO are found here, that have a more pronounced midrange boost which produces smoother saturation and focus. It “fills in
all the holes” and covers up the “noise” associated with things like fret-buzz and weak pickups sounding scratchy in the top end and
purifies the sound – distilling it down to a solid toneful note.
PAGE 9
FrONT PANeL: CO N T r O L S (Continued)
TREBLE
MID
BASS
PRESENCE
MASTER
45W
90W
O
STANDBY
ON
Simul-Class 45 / 90
POWE R
As the VOLUME is turned up from there, gain builds quickly and saturates things. The most popular range for footswitching seems to
be in this next range, 10:30 – 2:00, where the gain flows around the notes with a rushing focus that preserves the attack but prolongs
sustain. In this range the other Modes offer sounds that most players will find complimentary when jumping around the Modes. There
are still plenty of dynamics here to keep things expressive and bouncy, but at the same time, the strings feel effortless to play.
Here again, pickup style and output have great bearing on the personality and performance of this Mode and the control settings
that produce these results. Weaker vintage style pickups will produce sounds that have more high harmonics and are more open
but possibly less focused on single note soloing. Hotter pickups will grind more for crunch rhythm and have more of a pure, soaring
quality for single notes but may sound a little more plugged up with midrange for some things.
Cranking up from there the overdrive gets thick and creamy and is loaded with upper harmonics. This highest of gain ranges (2:00
– 5:30) will squeeze single notes into a beamlike stream and create giant walls of crunch for chording. As you approach the 3:00
point dynamics start to change and the defined attack softens a bit to a slightly compressed, more liquid attack. From 3:00 – 5:30
it’s an all-out gainfest and this is where you will find the most harmonic haze, sustain and tube saturation. Setting the VOLUME this
high will affect the balance between the Modes and most likely make it more difficult to footswitch between the sounds without some
substantial compromises. However, if you want all the sounds to be as thick with overdrive and lush harmonic content as possible
with no need for a really pristine sound in the CLEAN Mode, by all means…crank away!
NOTE: To footswitch between high gain Rock/Metal/Heavy sounds in HI/LO and rhythm sounds with enough headroom to avoid clipping in CLEAN; Set VOLUME at 3:00 – 5:00 and select CLEAN on Rear Panel GAIN TRIM switch. This will optimize the HI/LO Modes
and reduce the gain in CLEAN from (an “untrimmed”) VOLUME control setting, to approximately 11:00 (with TRIM engaged) so that
the CLEAN mode will not be clipped and bloated.
TREBLE:
If the VOLUME is the most powerful control in the Electra Dyne, the TREBLE comes in a close second. The TREBLE is
responsible for shaping the character of the entire amp. It can overpower the rest of the Tone controls easily and therefore its setting
is crucial to a rich and balanced sound in all three Modes. In fact, the TREBLE feeds the signal to the MID and BASS controls and
acts like a valve for their signal strength.
When the TREBLE is set in its higher regions (2:00 – 5:30) it is sending a smaller signal to those controls and they
will be less active and the dominant character will be one of very bright, TREBLE heavy frequencies. Conversely, a
very low setting on the TREBLE will produce sounds that are perhaps a little BASS heavy and overly dark as a very
large amount of signal is shoveled toward the MID and BASS controls. So you can see that setting the TREBLE
with care and taste in mind is critical for the Tone control string to work in harmony.
Like most of the controls in the Electra Dyne, the TREBLE utilizes a ganged pot with two discreet elements so that the CLEAN Mode
can have its proper value and taper independent of that needed for the VINTAGE LO and HI. This facilitates a much better blend when
switching across the Modes in performance where readjustment of the controls is not possible and in fact - makes the whole concept
of “channel switching” a Single Channel amp possible.
Since the TREBLE is so powerful and the fact that its adjustment produces instantly recognizable results, we will leave you to explore
its power with only a few suggestions that might help you find your sound more easily.
GLOBAL TREBLE Suggestions:
The best balance and interactive harmony (equal power) of the Tone Control string is found with the TREBLE set in the 10:30 – 1:30 range. 1.
Most of our favorite sounds occur in the fairly narrow band between 11:45 – 12:30, maybe as high as 1:00 for mahogany body guitars with
darker pickups. More importantly, the best footswitchable performance occurs with the TREBLE in that same rather narrow band. Outside
this band you can still footswitch between Modes, but there will be greater compromises in tonal character between the sounds.
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