Karl,

Thanks - makes sense!  I am envious of my buddy with his Vox hybrid that apparently has this capability built-in. (though he only has 1 tube, so...)

CG,

Makes sense that the POD volume (or this ebay device) put in the chain has an impact on overall volume, but as to what effect it has on driving tubes different then the controls that are already there?...I think Karl has it right.

Yeah, well, don't be too jealous.  It's a virtual attenuator in that circuit.  Just as it's a virtual power amp and output transformer circuit.  Neat concept, doesn't sound half bad, but has a ways to go to catch a real tube power amp.  The "attenuator" there is nothing more than an adjustable load right after the mini power amp circuit.

So, now you have a couple of options, first is the THD Hotplate http://guitars.musiciansfriend.com/product/THD-Hot-Plate-Attenuator?sku=481283

kinda pricey and it only comes in one Ohms setting. So if you ever switch cabs you are stuck with that one ohm setting.

Next, is the Weber Mass  http://www.thevintagesound.com/store/weber-100-watt-mass-attenuator-p-358.html cheaper and has Ohm switching. Plus it has a lot more options.

Or you can go Palmer  http://www.amptone.com/palmerpdi03.htm the Van Halen secret weapon! The legendary PDI-03, $600.00 and up for the real deal. http://cgi.ebay.com/Palmer-Pro-Audio-PDI-03-PDI03-Speaker-Simulator_W0QQitemZ170332868710QQcmdZViewItemQQptZGuitar_Accessories?hash=item27a8a15066&_trksid=p3286.m20.l1116

Then, there's always just cranking it til the cops show!

cgtrox

Hi!

Just one question about volume. You guys are talking about power attenuator etc.

I use the master all the way to 11   and I use the channel volume to hgher or lower my volume. Isn´t the same as having power brake och volume controller on the FXloop? arent´the powertubes bieng driven to it´s max?

Thanks!

//Edde

Ok! thanks!

Got it!

What do you think is better then? tonewise, have a high channel volume and low master or low channel volume and high master?

//Edde

Thanx againg!

Very helpfull answers!

Can you recommend any cheap attenuator?

//Edde

Man, that looks like a nice deal! Hand wired and good components, I think I may have to try it, too! For $50 it's not too bad.

cgtrox