scrumpymike

I suppose that the explanation offered by chris_b and jazzyvee is the only one that makes sense.

Yes, it has the usual warning light and, yes, the sounds are noticeably different for the two opposite methods - exactly in the way that anyone who understands the control functions would expect. Adopting the Mesa approach and noodling around loud-ish at home through an 8ohm Barefaced SC (= 400 watts), the gain ends up around 10 o'clock and the sounds produced are sweet and clean. Done the opposite 'traditional' way produces sounds that are less clean and more dynamic, according to how far you crank up the gain pot - again, just as expected. OK, beats me why Mesa say do it their way. I think this is just a non-topic!

Thanks Harry. As you know, I followed your build diary (plus Mick's and all the others) and was deeply impressed by every one - nothing matches following your own though.

I've just taken delivery of an excellent Mesa Subway 800 purchased off this forum and decided to have a quick read of the user manual unexpectedly received with it. Having generally bought used amps without any paperwork, I don't have much experience in these matters but I was surprised that Mesa's quick set-up guide reads: set the master to 1 o'clock and then increase the gain to achieve the required volume. I've always first set the input level to the point where the overload indicator occasionally flickers on and off 'in extremis' (or more permanently for an overdriven sound), and then set the master to get the required volume. Any ideas why Mesa advise the opposite approach - is it a class D thing?

Yep, I remember Road Bike! My current touring steed has 122 litres of luggage capacity if you include the 52l in lieu of Mrs Scrumpy!!

And enough room at the top end of the case now for a couple of rounds of sarnies

Thanks for the final pic's Andy. The side-by-side with the original body is quite a revelation - if it ain't noticeably lighter now, I'll eat my shorts! And a big thank you to everyone who's posted nice comments along the way.

Answer: not very well at all

I do think most people would prefer this to the somewhat whacky Rascal design (which I did like btw, just not keen on the weight and ergo's of the original). Having said that, I suppose it still qualifies as a Fender design given the P Lyte inspiration for the body. The more I look at this, the more I like that 'blue bird' headstock

Quick set-up, get those hatches battened down - and we're good to go!

+1 - and the lippy pups really show the wood off to maximum effect.

That's sensational Andy. I love the way this bass has turned - there's nothing I'd change even with the benefit of hindsight. Can't wait to play it .

That's nice to know Andy - no need for lightweight tuners then

Once again, nice work Andy - and another step forward despite the seasonal intervention of the peskie rellies . Not expecting this beauty to be re-Rascal-ed any time soon - only asked Andy to make it reversible cos I know he likes a challenge

I've got one of those lists too

Sheesh, that's a big ask - for all concerned!

Thanks Rich - pls send PayPal 'friend' payment to [email protected] - and a Very Merry Xmas to you!