The Saint

Thanks Brensabre I think that's the way to go. A UPS would be problem for me as I have no knowledge of them and I'd have to take advice from a dealer. My French is ok for most things but when I don't even understand the English words associated with what I'm buying, I'm on a hiding to nothing from a dealer.... Cheers Graham

Hi BOD2 Brilliant, that's exactly what I (and my gear) need. Neither should be too expensive, a bonus. Thanks Graham

Hi BOD2 Thanks, you posted while I was typing my reply... I really don't want to add weight to my set up, having just bought a lightweight PA. I suppose I really want something that will just stop my gear getting damaged, as so nearly happened the other night. The ability to play on for a few seconds would be nice, but it's certainly not a priority. I just want a device that will cut in before anything goes bang. Are the surge protectors you see in B&Q suitable? I assume that anything that takes a 13 amp socket will do, or am I barking up the wrong tree? Really wish I knew more about this new fangled electricity stuff.... Graham

Hi Karlfer I suppose it's a bit of black humour! At the time it was no big deal, but my wife made me only too aware of the possibilities after the gig. Seriously though, it could have been a whole lot worse. Hence the decision to ensure we don't get a repeat. Monckyman.. Thanks for the info. Unfortunately, I have no idea how to go about finding the right system for me. What should I be looking for in a UPS? I looked on e-Bay, but could only find stuff that seemed suitable for computer use. I want something to protect my PA, mixers and FX boards. A Google search took me to a site that spoke about 'single-phase line-interactivation' systems..!! We're on a different planet there... Could you provide me with a link to something suitable? Do Thomann sell something that would do, bearing in mind I live in France? I guess that similar systems are available across Europe. Thanks Graham

Hi I need some advice on the best way to protect my gear. We did a gig on Saturday and just on half time, there was an almighty popping and crackling from the PA. I looked across at my mixers and FX board and they were flashing like a Christmas tree. [size=4]Before I had chance to bring the levels down everything went dead, including stage amps, Roland drums, the lot.[/size] [size=4]I disconnected everything from the mains, whilst a tech guy from the venue investigated. We then took our supply from another source (a back room) and [/size]continued[size=4] with the gig without incident. [/size] [size=4]I didn't think too much of it at the time but later realised that everything could have been fried, leaving me with a hefty repair bill. I suppose we could have been fried as well, but at least I wouldn't have had the repair bill...[/size] [size=4]So, my question is this. Does a surge protector have the same qualities as a power conditioner? Should I have both or will one cover all basses?[/size] [size=4]​I'm rather [/size]ignorant[size=4] of these things, but the incident has focussed my attention somewhat....[/size] [size=4]What do you guys use?[/size] [size=4]Cheers[/size] [size=4]Graham[/size]

I used to play in a ukulele band in the UK, one guy insisted on using his banjolele. It was bloody loud and just drowned out everyone else. We eventually 'educated' him and once the volume came down, it was actually quite good. It really came into it's own when we launched into a skiffle set....

The only difference I've found is that the metal ones seem easier to play, as the plastic ones get sloppier the longer they stay in your mouth... There really ain't much difference in the sound, just try a few till you get one you like. Wooden ones tend to have a deeper tone. I grip mine in my teeth (this reply is getting seedier by the second) and the metal ones just seem easier to hold. OK, confession being good for the soul, I'll continue by saying that I find it best to use one of those harmonica cradles (think Bob Dylan) so that you can take a short breather between solos. And just to complete the picture, I only play kazoo when playing in my ukulele band...... I now wait to see if I'm ever allowed to post on this forum again. Graham

Those amps look superb and I'm sure they sound just as good.... One day........!!

+ one for the Super Champ XD.. Bought mine in Cash Converters a few months back and love it to bits. I really only use the first channel and for what I paid it would be difficult to beat. Small and light enough to pop in the boot for a jam, but loud enough to keep up. Would get lost in anything other than a very small gig, but it just sounds so good.... Keep eying up the Blues Junior but can't really justify the cost. Graham