starcaster 15G bass control problem

[LJN]

Hello everyone, not to long ago I purchased a starcaster 15G practice amp from a local pawn shop for $25. When I got home and plugged it in, It sounded pretty good(a little mellow for my taste, though), but the bass control didn't work like it should. there is no bass at zero, which is normal. But as soon as the knob is turned to one, it's like you've flipped a switch and it's on 10. it doesn't change as you progress from 1 to 10 with the bass knob. anyone know what may be the cause?

[J M Fahey]

Yes, the makers used a cheaper linear pot instead of the logarithmic (aka audio taper) they should have.
Nothing to die for, but if it annoys you *too much*, read its value, and get same value but audio (log)  taper from some supplier.

[joecool85]

Juan is right, and this happens more than it should.

Also, LJN, did you do the poll on purpose or were you just trying to post a new topic?

[LJN]

thanks guys, yes I was just trying to post this new topic. It wouldn't let me do it without a question, and that was the only thing I could think of. I'm still new at this whole forum thing, hope I didn't cause any problems with that question.

[LJN]

I would like to add that if the over drive is on and you turn a fuzz pedal on with that, it gets a pretty cool effect, but has alot of feedback. I'm sure that's normal, but I just thought I'd mention it.

[joecool85]

When you got to start a new thread, instead of clicking "Post New Poll", try clicking on "New Topic".  This is directly to the left of "Post New Poll."

[LJN]

I'll be sure to do that from now on. Does it hurt those amps to run stompboxes with the overdrive on as well? I don't imagine it would, but I'd just like a second opinion. Thanks.

[joecool85]

I'll be sure to do that from now on. Does it hurt those amps to run stompboxes with the overdrive on as well? I don't imagine it would, but I'd just like a second opinion. Thanks.

No problem there.  Run as much overdrive as you want into it.

[LJN]

Thank, I'll definitely do that. I do have one more thing I'd like to add about this little amp. When the volume is opened up, the speaker rattles pretty bad. My step father works with a guy who repairs guitars and amps, and he said it's a weak speaker, and it's very easy to overload it. Any thoughts about that? thanks.

[joecool85]

Thank, I'll definitely do that. I do have one more thing I'd like to add about this little amp. When the volume is opened up, the speaker rattles pretty bad. My step father works with a guy who repairs guitars and amps, and he said it's a weak speaker, and it's very easy to overload it. Any thoughts about that? thanks.

It very well could be the speaker.

[LJN]

I thought so. I've been thinking about putting a stronger speaker in it.

[joecool85]

I thought so. I've been thinking about putting a stronger speaker in it.

"Stronger" may not be the right choice here.  What you are going to what is a higher quality speaker.  Something like a Jensen Mod series, assuming it is an 8" speaker.

[LJN]

I believe it's either 6 or 8 inch. not sure. It's not really a problem unless I get the volume knob to 12 o'clock or higher.

[J M Fahey]

Try cutting bass a little.

[LJN]

The only way I can cut the bass on this amp is to turn the bass control to zero. I'm really gonna have to fix that.