[quote name='discreet' timestamp='1445159910' post='2889135']
This is a major point about the shape button. It's basically like a contour control in that it'll cut your mids and boost lows and highs, i.e. give a scooped sound. BUT, (on my ABM EVO II at least), THE SHAPE IS ACTIVE WHEN THE BUTTON IS OUT, NOT IN. This is counter-intuitive of course, but with this amp at least, if you want to be heard live the Shape button should be IN to provide NO scoop. Perhaps this is why so many people claim they have problems with Ashdown amps and why they're seen as 'woolly' or 'muddy'? Possibly, as the default position of the Shape button provides a scooped sound. To be quite clear, if you want an unscooped sound with an ABM the Shape button should be IN. Then the EQ section works as it should.
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That is good to know, I tend to trust my ears when setting up but this should help with getting to grips with the amp I've bought as a replacement.. An ABM 500 Evo III, I'm excited!