Wattage Control
As you turn up the volume on traditiional amps, the more the notes bloom. This slightly delayed, blossom response is caused by power supply sag. But excessively loud music is harmful to everyone's ears, and many attempts are being made to achieve that "cranked up to 10" amp tone at low volumes.
These methods are outlined below, showing how each affects your tone. Click on the links to learn more about how each approach works.
|
dummy load (attenuator) |
master volume |
variable trans- formers |
Maven Peal Sag Circuit |
|
| Wattage control | yes | no | yes | yes |
|
Power amp distortion at low volumes |
yes | no | yes | yes |
|
Power amp distortion control |
no | no | no | yes |
|
Eliminates power supply hum |
no | no | no | yes |
|
Impervious to varying wall voltages |
no | no | no | yes |
|
Easy on power tubes |
no | yes | yes | yes |
|
Keeps amp to speaker signal path intact |
no | no | yes | yes |
|
Removes high-end fizz |
no | no | no | yes |
