Hi, On the subject of the casings on the Superfly:
I have just opened mine up because it was cutting out whilst warming up (usually after 5-15 mins) but would eventually reset after a couple of attempts at switching off and back on. It had never let me down at a gig as I let it warm up while setting up the rest of the gear then reset it before we start. This situation doesn't inspire confidence, so I decided to investigate.
On removing the outer casings, I found they serve no purpose but increase the weight of the amp by 2.75kg (6lb)!!!
It's only 4kg (9lb) without them and 6.75kg (15lb) with!!
Worse than that, they create a dead air space of about 5mm above and below the amp. As the amp has no fan, this works like double glazing and INSULATES the amp keeping the heat IN.
Then there are those alloy castings on either side. Aluminium isn't the best conductor of heat and they're not finned so, again, they just cause the amp to retain more heat.
Ok, you woldn't think things could get much worse, would you? WRONG, this amp is controlled by a digital CPU/motherboard (basically, a small computer). Where do you think they placed this delicate unit in this designed-to-overheat amp?
Yes, you guessed it, THEY BOLTED IT RIGHT ON TO THE POWER AMP HEATSINK!!!!
Words fail me!! I just can't think of any way of describing how STUPID this design is without getting chucked off this lovely forum, which I've just joined!