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R/E/P => R/E/P Archives => Whatever Works => Topic started by: CHANCE on March 03, 2007, 05:21:47 PM

Title: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on March 03, 2007, 05:21:47 PM

Many of you might remember a group buy here a while back. Well after meeting with the "minister of doing business in China" ? I have discovered that my group buy was actually from a trader, not the manufacturer! After I made this discovery, I confronted the company I did the last group by from at the NAMM show, and they treated me very badly. The China government has opened the sale of merch direct to a dealer and thus eliminating the midle man/trader I have several mics that with my limited knowledge, have come up with. on the power supplies for example, instead of the 9 position polar switch, I replaced with a variable pot with a meter so you can see the voltage change to the capsule. this one is a 20mm tube mic where I opened up below the capsule.
I make no claims that these are amazing mics, just Another Cheap Mic. They will even be labeled as such This the ACM-310 tube
I have discovered situations where a C-12 or the like just doesn't cut it and get blown away when a $50.00 cheap ribbon makes it all happen. I've got pictures of most of these mics on my site. I believe that nothing will cost more than a note in the key of C (ACM) LOL index.php/fa/4426/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: maxim on March 03, 2007, 05:33:54 PM

chance

i was a part of that group, and was very disappointed when it fell through

are you saying it's back on?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on March 03, 2007, 05:43:10 PM

maxim wrote on Sat, 03 March 2007 14:33

chance

i was a part of that group, and was very disappointed when it fell through

are you saying it's back on?

Yeah the second one fell thru. The first one, we got around 100 mics no problem. Then the brand name companies stopped the second one

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: bigbone on March 03, 2007, 10:27:55 PM

I was part of that group buy..count me in for that one also please.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: thedoc on March 03, 2007, 11:07:42 PM

Ok, I'll jump in this time....To quote that great philosopher Tik......lemme nough.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Tidewater on March 03, 2007, 11:21:29 PM

If you find a place where you need a few extra ribbon mics, I bet I can talk kevin into trading all of his for that C12 that isn't working out.

lemme gough!

M Very Happy

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: dcgzr on March 04, 2007, 07:44:08 PM

I might be in too

lendme dough

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Hallams on March 04, 2007, 09:23:29 PM

Me too
thanx

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Les Ismore on March 05, 2007, 04:07:36 AM

I'd be interested in that too.
Thanks, Pete

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Barkley McKay on March 05, 2007, 04:14:29 AM

Same here.

thanks

Barkley

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on March 05, 2007, 09:23:36 AM

Uh oh, The photo/attachment is not showing up any more. Was that a no no posting it? If so,, sorry

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: McAllister on March 05, 2007, 09:42:29 AM

I'm in.
Keep us posted.

M

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: LSilva on March 05, 2007, 10:17:51 AM

I'm interested too...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Craig Patterson on March 05, 2007, 12:41:07 PM

I'm interested too...

Please let us know whether we can just send money, or if you'd prefer us to subscribe to a group, like last time.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Rod Affleck on March 05, 2007, 02:35:28 PM

Interested, though noncommital at this point. Would sending them across the border into Canada negate any savings that the group buy would give? Keep posting details as you get them.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on March 05, 2007, 02:39:13 PM

Right now everything is in the "embrionic" stages. I was hoping to be further along, but in China they have a 3 week holiday.? I want to copyrite (spelling?) the designs so there will be no disputes from the big guys. Lundahl and Cinimag have been unbelivably supportive. These mics are like when you get a small box of crayons, you get the primary colors ie C-12, 47's, 67's, 87's, 251's etc. and these mics are like the big box with a lot of different colors. Nothing special, just different.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: ssltech on March 05, 2007, 03:02:02 PM

Sure, Why not get a pair!

Lemmy, NO!!!

Keef

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: TB-AV on March 05, 2007, 03:13:13 PM

Chance, I would like in again.

You have junk in the link to that picture.

Here it is.

EDIT: Sorry I mis-spoke. Mine won't display either. It downloads fine though as a "save-as".
EDIT: OK, works now.
TB
index.php/fa/4447/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on March 05, 2007, 04:04:38 PM

Thats wierd, The pic shows up fine on the MAC/Safari, but on the PC/Firefox no show. Oh yeah, I forgot, my PC is not very intelligent.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: TB-AV on March 06, 2007, 09:53:21 AM

Chance,

That file was saved as CMYK color space. Evidently that causes a problem somehow. I saved it as RGB and now it works fine for FireFox / PC.

TB

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on March 06, 2007, 10:12:44 AM

Cool that shows up on both platforms

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on March 09, 2007, 08:50:27 PM

Heres another stereo ribbon index.php/fa/4482/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Craig Patterson on March 12, 2007, 10:17:23 AM

I can't wait to get in!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on April 12, 2007, 11:27:52 AM

This weekend I will start taking orders and will post the process. Maybe if enough Cheap mics flood the market, The high end mic manufacturers will once again start producing the quality that their price is demanding on their past reputation. "BUT WAIT,, THERES MORE" "MENTION PSW AND GET A DISCOUNT" (see what happens when you record mostly TV & radio commercials for a living?) LOL

All the mics for this Group buy are on the products page of my site

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: thedommer on April 12, 2007, 01:52:17 PM

evil robot wrote on Mon, 05 March 2007 13:35

Interested, though noncommital at this point. Would sending them across the border into Canada negate any savings that the group buy would give? Keep posting details as you get them.

im interested but with this same hesitation.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: thedommer on April 12, 2007, 01:57:18 PM

has anyone tried any of these? just curious if they are actually good.. are they comparable to any high end mics?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on April 12, 2007, 02:15:39 PM

With the last Group buy I kept most of them, and the ones I knew I would never use, I either cannibalized, moded, and experimented or put it on E-bay. At thes prices you won't break the bank and if you can't use it, you can E-bay it and make some $ for your trouble

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: pete andrews on April 12, 2007, 02:29:39 PM

pete andrews is in again.

lemay naux

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on April 12, 2007, 03:48:17 PM

pete andrews wrote on Thu, 12 April 2007 11:29

pete andrews is in again.

lemay naux

Hey Pete, didn't you get enough last time ? LOL

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on April 12, 2007, 03:51:52 PM

By the way, the stereo ribbon has just started production and won't be ready for this GB

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: pete andrews on April 12, 2007, 03:59:20 PM

no stereo ribbon this time?
ok - then count me out - thats the only new tool (right now) i'd be interested in trying out. i will jump in later on. thanks.
one more question - the mics on your "product" page - are they units you have in stock and are selling? if so i may be interested in trying 1 or 2 - one of the ribbons i got from the first group buy i use all the time.

thanks !

pete

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: bigbone on April 12, 2007, 04:59:02 PM

Hello Chance
i was part of the last group buy, and i will like to get in this one
witch one can i get for drums OH'S !!!!!!!!!!!!!

can someone help..............i did get some ribbon last time that i mod and
that i like, this time i will like to get a LDC .........

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: rankus on April 12, 2007, 05:01:29 PM

Chance, I'm in this time as well. Which ribbon would you suggest for guitars? (Loud distorted rock amps)

PS: Thanks for doing this!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Greg Dixon on April 12, 2007, 07:02:00 PM

Chance,

I'm interested too. I'm in Australia, but if you don't want to send overseas, I can get a friend in Florida to send them on.

Thanks
Greg

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on April 12, 2007, 07:08:49 PM

If anyone wants to know what is best for what, all I can say is "one mans treasure is another mans garbage" The SDC tube should have a low proximity effect, due to the porting below the capsule. Last time I had one order from Austrailia, he paid for the mic and I am still waiting for the payment for shipping.It was one ribbon mic, 5 pound package, and the shipping was $23.00, by air from here to austrailia. so you can do the math and see if it is worth the cost. The tube mics have removable tubes, and the multi pattern will still be 9 position. The varible with volt meter won't be ready in time. They were doing some show in Germany and before that, they had a 2 or 3 week holiday, so you can see, it takes a lot of time

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: compasspnt on April 12, 2007, 07:28:57 PM

Just in case some of you do not know, Chance's website is:

http://www.the-musicians-workshop.com/

Look under "Products."

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: littlehat on April 12, 2007, 08:50:52 PM

Very interested. At this price point... a simple yes.
I've spent more on a single cable.

What's the number for critical mass, or are you moving forward no matter how many of us are down, and just checking the demand here first?

Your site could use a little more straightforward comparison lingo... This mic sounds like an older model from the rhineland that sit in the seat between seats C11 and C13...

Have you used these mics yourself?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: compasspnt on April 12, 2007, 09:49:15 PM

Do not expect to get a U47 or a C12 or an RCA 44 out of these mics.

You can get more than you pay for in some cases, but you don't get a miracle.

Enjoy the prices; find uses for the microphones.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: maxim on April 12, 2007, 09:55:54 PM

i'm thinking of getting a fet for the bass drum

any thoughts?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: philipp on April 13, 2007, 03:55:36 AM

I'm in for two ribbons. We did a comparison between Royers 121 and some very cheap ribbons, and prefered the cheap ones in this case.

(Drums frontrecording)

I think this is just good to have as an alternative, and for these prices...

I would have loved to get a stereo ribbon!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: RMoore on April 13, 2007, 04:50:27 AM

Wow - those prices are unbelievable,

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Peter Beckmann on April 13, 2007, 05:45:49 AM

Keep me posted....

PB

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: pete andrews on April 13, 2007, 09:22:20 AM

you know what - what the neck - put me back in -
i will grab a few more ribbons - i've got some plans for 'em....

i'll chime in on the condensers i got in the first round...

i found them all to be almost useless. i picked up a pair of the SDC's and they were not anything i'd ever use on anything - weird mids - honky - the C42's or 451's we already have were good enough Wink

out the door they went.

also grabbed an LDC (tube) which again, next to the other mics in the place, was not going to ever see any recording time. i think i used it once for recording a practice in an apartment. Highs were plagued with this nasty ringy junk that hurt the ears. i will add that the tube was soldered in place - no socket. it also came with the wrong size shockmount - no biggie a few minutes in the shop for some metal work fixed that.. for us it was not worth the time to mod or anything.
on the other hand, the ribbons we picked up were all very useful. i wished i had picked up a pair any of the models we got in order to try overheads but alas -- we only grabbed "one of each", so.... maybe this time around i'll pick up a pair.

so.... sign me back up Chance!

pete

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Fibes on April 13, 2007, 09:58:51 AM

Yeah Chance, i'm here...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Rod Affleck on April 13, 2007, 11:42:25 AM

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 05 March 2007 15:39

Lundahl and Cinimag have been unbelivably supportive.

What's the transformer situation looking like? If I ordered one of the acm-310 SDC tube mics, will it actually have a really good transformer, or just a plain old POS Chinese transformer like the one in my Apex 460?

Thanks. Definitely leaning towards the "what they heck, it's only $85" side of the scale.

r a

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Greg Dixon on April 13, 2007, 07:21:41 PM

pete andrews wrote on Fri, 13 April 2007 23:22

on the other hand, the ribbons we picked up were all very useful. i wished i had picked up a pair any of the models we got in order to try overheads but alas -- we only grabbed "one of each", so.... maybe this time around i'll pick up a pair.

I agree. I have a pair of the Chinese ribbons that I bought in another group buy and they sound great. Removed the perforated metal plates and installed Cinemag transformers and they've been very useful.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: mattrussell on April 14, 2007, 10:16:36 AM

would love to get in on this chance. keep me posted. very interested in the stereo ribbon when it becomes available.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on April 14, 2007, 06:19:31 PM

OK gang, like the topic says "here we go again"
For those that don't know the drill, heres how it works: you send me an E-mail. In the subject header, put "MICROPHONES" then in the message area state what you want. I will use those E-dresses for the Pay pal money requests (only one E-dress please) cut-off date is May 6. It's important to put "MICROPHONES" in the subject header so it will be easier to file to a seperate folder plus I can, at a glance, weed out the Viagra, work at home, and all the other trash that you are all familiar with. I use MAC and it will recognise and seperate MICROPHONES in the subject header to a dedicated folder. Pay pal has a small charge, but I will cover it for now, and add when I pack and ship to you. These will have a logo, so you will know at a glance the +side. I SEEMED TO HAVE MISPLACED THE "TnC" LOGO. LOL I think I accidently moved it to a folder in another drive.
Oh yeah for those few out of country folks, we'll do it like last time

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: maxim on April 14, 2007, 08:07:26 PM

the email address in your sig?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on April 15, 2007, 02:06:47 PM

maxim wrote on Sat, 14 April 2007 17:07

the email address in your sig?

Sure, that'll work

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: drumzealot on April 19, 2007, 02:09:28 PM

Greg Dixon wrote on Fri, 13 April 2007 18:21

Greg (or anyone else),

Were the mics you moded the same model? I plan instal new trannies as well but before I make the purchase i want to make sure these are mod-able.

Having never done a mic mod, is a tranny switch complicated, or is it worth the $$ to have a pro do it?

Also, if you are able, how might describe the difference b/w the Cinemag and Lundhal (sp?) trannies?

Muchos Gracias!

Joe

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Greg Dixon on April 19, 2007, 07:18:11 PM

drumzealot wrote on Fri, 20 April 2007 04:09

Joe,

The mics I have look almost the same as the ACM-1. Slightly different grill. As far as I know, there are a few variations, in the grill and connectors, but they all have the same ribbon motor.

I don't think there's much point installing a switch. There isn't a huge difference in the sound with the Cinemag installed. It just sounds better.

I have no experience with other transformers in these mics. There are a few sites that offer the same mics with both options, that have more information. Shinybox is one.

Even before the mods they sounded good. Now they just sound better.

I'm ordering another pair of the ACM-1s (+ 1 for a friend), 2 pairs of the ACM-2s and a pair of ACM-3s. You really can't go wrong. 9 mics for $490 + postage.

Regards
Greg

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Greg Dixon on May 04, 2007, 09:12:56 PM

Chance,

I've been attempting to reply to your email, but it keeps coming back saying it's been blocked by a spam filter.

The latter (and greater) quantity is the correct one.

Thanks
Greg

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on May 04, 2007, 09:54:54 PM

Greg Dixon wrote on Fri, 04 May 2007 18:12

Chance,

I've been attempting to reply to your email, but it keeps coming back saying it's been blocked by a spam filter.

The latter (and greater) quantity is the correct one.

Thanks
Greg

Yeah, I know. I had no idea there would be so many in ths "buy" My mail box is full. I will make note of this.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Barkley McKay on May 05, 2007, 03:41:00 AM

Hi Chance,

Will there be a small confirmation that you got the emails?
Its not always clear when they get sent out into the ether that they hve been recieved!

thanks

Barks

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on May 05, 2007, 08:28:02 AM

The only confirmation will be the request for funds from Pay Pal. I never thought there would be so many orders so this process will take a while

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on May 06, 2007, 08:45:00 PM

CHANCE wrote on Fri, 04 May 2007 18:54

Greg Dixon wrote on Fri, 04 May 2007 18:12

Chance,

I've been attempting to reply to your email, but it keeps coming back saying it's been blocked by a spam filter.

The latter (and greater) quantity is the correct one.

Thanks
Greg

Yeah, I know. I had no idea there would be so many in ths "buy" My mail box is full. I will make note of this.

Mail box is cleaned out, orders are pouring in, and some here have showed a desire to purchase. As our resident guru says
"Lemme nough" ASAP

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: TB-AV on May 07, 2007, 11:24:40 AM

Just sent a small order if not too late.

Thanks Chance.

Tom B.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on May 07, 2007, 12:05:37 PM

TB-AV wrote on Mon, 07 May 2007 08:24

Just sent a small order if not too late.

Thanks Chance.

Tom B.

No problem.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: rankus on May 07, 2007, 09:21:19 PM

I know I said I was going to jump in. but I spent the bank (and then some) on some API gear this month... I Just thought I would let you know in case you missed me... (but by the sounds of things this won't be a problem.... I am onboard for the next one though... (please let there be a next one...)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: organica on June 24, 2007, 12:00:32 AM

Chance , did that ship-of-mics ever come in ? any word ?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on June 24, 2007, 10:05:20 AM

The funds were quickly transfered this time around and the mics are now in production. Because they are not "re-branded mics" they do not have a supply on hand and have to be made. We are looking at around rhe end of July. They will be making over 1000 of these mics for us.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on June 27, 2007, 09:55:57 PM

Here is the new TnC tube ribbon that will be available in the next Group buy index.php/fa/5524/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on June 27, 2007, 10:00:23 PM

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: pete andrews on June 29, 2007, 09:48:55 AM

chance - is it too late to add one of those to my order? i can paypal right away...
letmeknow...

-pete

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on June 29, 2007, 12:29:59 PM

pete andrews wrote on Fri, 29 June 2007 06:48

chance - is it too late to add one of those to my order? i can paypal right away...
letmeknow...

-pete

I have been getting a lot of E-mails. "This group buy is closed" Our mics are in production now and should be on a ship by next week. The tube ribbon along with a lot of other mics including stereo ribbon, stereo tube, and some other gear will be available in the next TnC group buy

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on August 02, 2007, 03:57:45 PM

Here is the first look at the new "TnC ACM-310 SDC tube mic with the logo and model number
(remember ACM stands for "Another Cheap Mic"
index.php/fa/5842/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on August 02, 2007, 04:03:45 PM

All the mics are built and are undergoing testing before shipping.

index.php/fa/5843/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Greg Dixon on August 02, 2007, 07:07:12 PM

What does TnC stand for?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on August 02, 2007, 07:20:49 PM

What does TNT stand for ? LOL

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: JDNelson on August 02, 2007, 07:26:04 PM

CHANCE wrote on Thu, 02 August 2007 16:20

What does TNT stand for ? LOL

tri-nitrotolulene Very Happy

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Tomas Danko on August 03, 2007, 07:11:42 AM

My godfather once started importing PC's and peripheral's and sold it under the name SSDN.

It became very popular and in the end he changed it to Svenska PC-Fabriken (Swedish PC-Factory).

SSDN meant Same Shit Different Name.

Ps. He's the guy behind those JJ-Labs microphones nowadays and what not (as well as the Ehrlund triangle LDC).

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: pete andrews on August 03, 2007, 10:19:14 AM

does this mean our mics are in? (the states)

-pete

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on August 03, 2007, 08:18:45 PM

pete andrews wrote on Fri, 03 August 2007 07:19

does this mean our mics are in? (the states)

-pete

Wishful thinking. They are being tested before being shipped

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on August 04, 2007, 02:41:51 PM

CHANCE wrote on Thu, 02 August 2007 12:57

Here is the first look at the new "TnC ACM-310 SDC tube mic with the logo and model number
(remember ACM stands for "Another Cheap Mic"
index.php/fa/5842/0/

I just got an E-mail from someone who ordered this mic. He doesnt come to PSW, so I won't be embarrasing him,
"Chance, I was part of the last group buy and have ordered 4 of these ACM-310 mics. On the last group buy, the mics had no logo and you didn't know what side to sing into. Looking at your ACM-310, there is no question what side you sing into thanks to the logo,,, err, ah,,, huh ? LOL

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on August 13, 2007, 04:11:07 PM

Heres a little something that will be offered in the next GB index.php/fa/5896/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on August 13, 2007, 04:13:03 PM

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Tomas Danko on August 14, 2007, 06:08:58 AM

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 13 August 2007 21:11

Heres a little something that will be offered in the next GB index.php/fa/5896/0/

Neat!

I can see what an awesome and very wide stereo image that would give you.

But my question is,

can you really find such a small musician to fit in there, or are the microphones themselves huge like logs? It's hard to tell by the picture.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: phantom309 on August 14, 2007, 08:52:50 AM

Tomas Danko wrote on Tue, 14 August 2007 04:08

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 13 August 2007 21:11

Heres a little something that will be offered in the next GB index.php/fa/5896/0/

Funny!
I was imagining Hannibal Lechter's head in there somehow.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Tomas Danko on August 14, 2007, 09:54:41 AM

phantom309 wrote on Tue, 14 August 2007 13:52

Funny!
I was imagining Hannibal Lechter's head in there somehow.

He comes with a built-in pop screen:

http://www.onpointradio.org/content/2002/10/17/1017evil140.jpg

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on August 16, 2007, 09:15:19 AM

CHANCE wrote on Thu, 02 August 2007 13:03

All the mics are built and are undergoing testing before shipping.

index.php/fa/5843/0/

LOL I just got an E-mail from the manufacturer stating "You are fine today and safe. Your logo does not contain lead, but our solder does contain lead. Do not let your babies put internal mic parts in their mouth. You are much in thanks" LOL, only in China

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: pete andrews on August 16, 2007, 01:17:40 PM

great success.

-pete

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Brian Kehew on August 17, 2007, 06:40:34 AM

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 13 August 2007 12:11

Heres a little something that will be offered in the next GB index.php/fa/5896/0/

Huh?@! - Do the mics record EACH OTHER?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: compasspnt on August 17, 2007, 08:47:52 AM

TNC, ready to strike.

About to blow the microphone world up.

The logo really works, Chance!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: mmazurek on August 17, 2007, 09:05:36 AM

Looks like it's for stereo recording 'on the fly'.

You REALLY need to coach the fly on standing quite still, though.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: ktownson on August 17, 2007, 12:20:29 PM

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 13 August 2007 16:11

Heres a little something that will be offered in the next GB index.php/fa/5896/0/

So that's how you clone these mics! Just like universal remotes...you point them at each other and one "learns" from the other. Verrrry clever!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on August 17, 2007, 04:11:37 PM

Well. these things are ready to ship from China and I have to give my shipper some info.
The only info the manufacturer gave me was this

5.36 CMB
1189.00 kgs GW
1160.00 kgs NW

Can anyone translate as to pounds and size ?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: GrahameD on August 17, 2007, 06:22:11 PM

I'd hazard a guess that

GW = gross weight

NW = net weight

http://www.escapeartist.com/Conversions/Kilograms_Pounds.htm l

Looks like 1189 kg = 2616 lbs

CMB? No idea...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: rankus on August 17, 2007, 06:29:22 PM

CMB = Chance's Migraine Bonanza?

Sorry couldn't resist Razz

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Tomas Danko on August 18, 2007, 06:17:24 AM

There is a conversion widget in OS X. It can convert between all sorts of things such as weight, volume, temperature and so on. Just launch your Dashboard and find the widget by adding it (click on the plus sign and scroll through the widgets).

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: organica on September 04, 2007, 12:43:10 AM

Any word on the ETA ?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on September 04, 2007, 09:23:19 AM

groundhog day wrote on Mon, 03 September 2007 21:43

Any word on the ETA ?

I just found out that they missed the ship by hours and will ship on the 6th. The last group buy took 28 days at sea, but they are telling me that from Shanghai to LA is only 14 days. The last GB came from Beijing. Could that result in the extra time? Not sure. Once it arrives to the port of LA, I will need to pay the duty and have them shipped to me, then to you all.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Rod Affleck on September 04, 2007, 10:24:49 AM

GrahameD wrote on Fri, 17 August 2007 19:22

I'd hazard a guess that

GW = gross weight

NW = net weight

CMB? No idea...

cubic meters? Though I don't know what the B would stand for--Bulk maybe? As in size of package as opposed to size of contents? I would guess that 1200kg of microphones would be about 5 cubic meters in volume. Which would be 189 cubic feet. Or a little over 6'x6'x5'.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: compasspnt on September 04, 2007, 05:35:40 PM

TNC

"On the move."

"On the ship."

"Ready to Mic the World."

"Lightning strikes in the studio."

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Larrchild on September 04, 2007, 05:45:22 PM

Wasn't that Elvis's motto?

index.php/fa/6101/0/

Oh, sorry, that was TCB.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on September 05, 2007, 11:05:33 AM

Only kidding index.php/fa/6103/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on September 05, 2007, 11:14:23 AM

Lead paint must be heavy index.php/fa/6104/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: TB-AV on September 06, 2007, 01:00:31 PM

It's possible CMB is a typo for CBM which is a shipping term for Cubic Meter.

5.6 cubic meters.

TB

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Brian Kehew on September 06, 2007, 01:11:09 PM

groundhog day wrote on Mon, 03 September 2007 20:43

Any word on the ETA ?

Is the ETA one of the models? I want one!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on September 26, 2007, 01:35:36 PM

BREAKING NEWS!
I just got word that the mics are in. I just mail'd a check for $1600.00 to my broker for duty, broker fees, and dock fees. They asked to fax a power of attorney and a copy of the check, and they will E-mail me the release papers. I should be picking them up in the next day or two. (maybe three)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: pete andrews on October 03, 2007, 03:17:52 PM

hey chance - whats the werd? these mics in your hands yet?

-pete

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on October 03, 2007, 07:49:38 PM

Well I picked up a ton and a half of mics first thing Monday morning and I must say "it was painless". I say painless because having done this quite a few times, I've gained knowledge on how to do it.
For some reason the "print shipping label" button on my paypal account for each order going out has been disabled. I learned that they expire after 14 days. A few of you have moved. Please send me an E-mail with all of your old info such as E-dress, address, and name. I guess I have to manually type (is that still a word ?) all the shipping info into my Fedex account. I was hoping to simply import this info into my fed ex address book. I guess I just learned not to make that mistake again. LOL index.php/fa/6365/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: compasspnt on October 03, 2007, 08:04:17 PM

TNC

"Ready to Mic The World!"

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: organica on October 03, 2007, 08:12:52 PM

I believe that if you call paypal , that they may be able to retrieve that info for you .

They've done it for me with things as old as a year or so .

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: compasspnt on October 03, 2007, 08:16:32 PM

Chance has one of the highest thresholds for pain extant in humans.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on October 03, 2007, 08:37:21 PM

compasspnt wrote on Wed, 03 October 2007 17:16

Chance has one of the highest thresholds for pain extant in humans.

LOL

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on October 03, 2007, 08:40:21 PM

groundhog day wrote on Wed, 03 October 2007 17:12

I believe that if you call paypal , that they may be able to retrieve that info for you .

They've done it for me with things as old as a year or so .

WOW that would be great. You said call. Do you get to speak to a live person?
I couldn't find a number to make contact by phone. That would save a lot of time (and pain) LOL

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: phantom309 on October 03, 2007, 08:45:00 PM

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 03 October 2007 18:40

groundhog day wrote on Wed, 03 October 2007 17:12

I believe that if you call paypal , that they may be able to retrieve that info for you .

They've done it for me with things as old as a year or so .

WOW that would be great. You said call. Do you get to speak to a live person?
I couldn't find a number to make contact by phone. That would save a lot of time (and pain) LOL

1-800-836-1859
1-888-204-4481
1-888-221-1161
(650) 864-8000
(877) 672-9725 try this one first

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on October 03, 2007, 08:49:17 PM

Great ! Thank you.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on October 04, 2007, 12:21:44 PM

Bummer!
I called them and after being put on "eternal hold", I was advised that after 30 days, that info is gone

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: organica on October 04, 2007, 03:55:13 PM

Ouch ..... at least you can go into your history/ details , go to the "print a packing slip " and copy & paste from there .
Sorry !

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on October 10, 2007, 08:02:41 PM

I am packing all these orders and including the paypal receipt and am confused. When everyone paid, some have no paypal fee and some have more than $10.00 for a $300.00 purchase. Now when I send the request for money for shipping to y'all, How could I know what the fee is? The fee comes off of my end

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Mike P on October 10, 2007, 08:20:10 PM

Chance,

If people are paying via credit or debit card through Paypal, there's a fee of 2.9% +.30 per transaction.

Just to cover yourself, you should add the 2.9% +.30 to each invoice. Otherwise, it's coming out of your pocket.

https://www.paypal.com/us/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_display-fees

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: TB-AV on October 10, 2007, 08:25:11 PM

Chance does this help?

http://www.ppcalc.com/

Round up on a scale of $5 per $100. Maybe that would cover it.

BTW, I am one with a new address. Sent you and email but didn't get confirmation. No bounce either. So either you got it or your spam filter did.

TB

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on October 11, 2007, 07:58:09 AM

Sheesh,, I don't know what I'd do without you guys. Thanks

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on October 24, 2007, 07:33:30 PM

Well I started shipping and got some pics for new mics in the next GB (what was I thinking) index.php/fa/6521/0/

It looks like your every day mic from China. but it's an XY config'd with (2) 22,5mm capsules.and 2 independent FET balanced output transformers.
The next frame shows under the hood (it might be too small to view, but I'll get a larger pic soon)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on October 24, 2007, 07:35:35 PM

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on October 24, 2007, 07:43:50 PM

This ribbon (resembles the 77 a tad) is variable polar pattern with a mechanical valve that slides over behind the ribbon. On the FET power amp, there is a pot to vari the voltage to the mic

index.php/fa/6523/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on October 24, 2007, 07:48:34 PM

I know, this looks crude like a WW2 German grenade it's a ribbon and uses a 12AX7 more details later

index.php/fa/6524/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on October 24, 2007, 07:56:28 PM

And this is a pregnant German grenade.Also a ribbon. A double ribbon, and phantom powered.the two ribbons are mounted in close proximity in vertical axis 90 degrees horizontally. It has two seperate FET

index.php/fa/6525/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on October 24, 2007, 08:14:36 PM

I'll post some more tomorrow

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: compasspnt on October 24, 2007, 09:21:39 PM

TNC Microphones.

The Voice of a Generation.

On the move.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: organica on October 25, 2007, 02:29:07 AM

compasspnt wrote on Wed, 24 October 2007 21:21

TNC Microphones.

THE NEW COOL Microphones?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Greg Dixon on October 25, 2007, 02:47:07 AM

Chance. They sure do look cool. You might get even more orders next time, just based on cosmetics!

Any idea how long it will take before you get through sending out the current mics?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on October 25, 2007, 02:54:08 PM

Greg Dixon wrote on Wed, 24 October 2007 23:47

Chance. They sure do look cool. You might get even more orders next time, just based on cosmetics!

Any idea how long it will take before you get through sending out the current mics?

I'm packing as we speak. I can't send the "shipping request" until I have them packed, weighed, and measured. (to get the shipping rate)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Bill_Urick on October 25, 2007, 09:19:55 PM

Chance,

Thanks for all your efforts. We all really appreciate it.
(And I'll have a ribbon mic soon!)
Cool

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on October 25, 2007, 10:01:23 PM

Heres another index.php/fa/6538/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on October 25, 2007, 10:02:53 PM

and another TnC spesh
index.php/fa/6539/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Greg Dixon on October 25, 2007, 11:23:25 PM

Nice. Now please stop taunting us!!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: mr jason on October 26, 2007, 02:54:27 PM

I am literally drooling. I don't give a rats arse what they sound like. Long as they LOOK the part. Cool

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on October 26, 2007, 03:56:29 PM

mr jason wrote on Fri, 26 October 2007 11:54

I am literally drooling. I don't give a rats arse what they sound like. Long as they LOOK the part. Cool

OK you design a mic. sketch out a design. sketch the circuit and I'll probably have a prototype in a month. LOL

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on October 26, 2007, 04:35:51 PM

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on October 28, 2007, 03:58:13 PM

Heres what two of the mics that are now shipping look like with the logo index.php/fa/6562/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on October 28, 2007, 04:01:10 PM

another in the hand of its new owner index.php/fa/6563/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: organica on October 29, 2007, 10:54:38 AM

Will we be receiving some sort of notification before you send them ?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on October 30, 2007, 11:39:07 AM

groundhog day wrote on Mon, 29 October 2007 07:54

Will we be receiving some sort of notification before you send them ?

Yes, when you get the "request for money" from Pay Pal (for shipping), That means your order is ready to ship

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Phil on October 31, 2007, 12:24:24 PM

Hey guys, how about some raves and reviews! Some of you who have already received your mics let us know how they sound, what they're best used on and how they look. Has anyone with a ribbon done a transformer swap?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Phil on November 01, 2007, 05:53:11 PM

No one has their microphones yet?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on November 02, 2007, 08:14:38 AM

I've only shipped out about 200 of well over 1000 mics. I got a long way to go.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: pete andrews on November 02, 2007, 08:16:55 AM

"only"

haha! you're doing a great thing Chance - we all really appreciate it.

-pete

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: compasspnt on November 02, 2007, 12:39:30 PM

I have petitioned the Court to legally change his name to "Champ."

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: pete andrews on November 02, 2007, 01:19:09 PM

hahaha!!

-pete

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on November 04, 2007, 01:43:00 PM

Last Friday I was packing and talking on my cordless phone, and today I can't find my cordless. I think I might have set it in one of the boxes I was packing and later threw in the packing (foam) peanuts not realizing the phone was in there. No biggie. If someone finds it, just toss it, but let me know so at least I'll know what happened to it. I tried the remote pager from the base unit, but I think the batteries in the phone were just about dust.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: organica on November 17, 2007, 03:18:37 PM

Phil wrote on Wed, 31 October 2007 12:24

I just received an ACM-3 today . It's really cute .

My daughter instantly took to the little blue velvet bag and turned it into a hand puppet !

Will try it soon .......

Thanks Chance .

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Podgorny on November 17, 2007, 03:34:23 PM

groundhog day wrote on Sat, 17 November 2007 14:18

My daughter instantly took to the little blue velvet bag and turned it into a hand puppet !

Will try it soon .......

The hand puppet thing?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: organica on November 17, 2007, 04:13:23 PM

Yes .

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Podgorny on November 17, 2007, 05:40:02 PM

I'm excited to try that, just as soon as I receive my ACM-3s.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on November 17, 2007, 06:41:41 PM

Man I never expected to hear SO MANY good reviews on these mics. One has been used on vox on the new "met-life" commercial. I was thinking that the "C" in ACM, which stands for "cheap" would not warrent such good feedback. Hmm, maybe it's the "T" in TnC has something to do with it. LOL. Around 600 have been shipped already, and another shipment will go out on Tuesday.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on November 17, 2007, 06:46:32 PM

Heres a graph that someone did A/Bing a 414 with the ACM-6802T index.php/fa/6687/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: compasspnt on November 17, 2007, 10:56:27 PM

CHANCE wrote on Sat, 17 November 2007 18:41

Hmm, maybe it's the "T" in TnC has something to do with it. LOL.

Hey, ABSOLUTELY.

That must be the magic.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Dom3735 on November 19, 2007, 01:35:22 PM

Well... looks like i've miss this one!
Any other GB soon?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: organica on November 19, 2007, 01:55:18 PM

compasspnt wrote on Sat, 17 November 2007 22:56

CHANCE wrote on Sat, 17 November 2007 18:41

Hmm, maybe it's the "T" in TnC has something to do with it. LOL.

Hey, ABSOLUTELY.

That must be the magic.

As in " all the Tea n' China " ?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Greg Dixon on November 19, 2007, 04:33:30 PM

Dom Berg wrote on Tue, 20 November 2007 05:35

Well... looks like i've miss this one!
Any other GB soon?

Check a couple of pages back for pretty pictures of the next ones.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on November 23, 2007, 11:53:50 AM

Heres a couple things I have been fabricating. It may LOOK familiar, but hey, this company has been doing it for years. Inside it is all different index.php/fa/6751/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on November 23, 2007, 11:57:56 AM

These are not finished yet. I make changes, send it to China, they make some changes and send it back, I change it and send it back etc. These pieces have made 4 round trips already. index.php/fa/6752/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on November 23, 2007, 02:19:33 PM

To all that have recieved their order, check your invoice. All the orders are correct, but I might have put the wrong invoice in the box. It probably happened on this last order PM me ASAP

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: GrahameD on November 23, 2007, 03:50:20 PM

What are they? TNC pre?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Rod Affleck on November 25, 2007, 12:50:03 PM

GrahameD wrote on Fri, 23 November 2007 16:50

What are they? TNC pre?

Looks like someone's ripping off Behringer (irony!):

http://www.behringer.com/T1952/index.cfm?lang=eng

Is the T1952 the one that apparently doesn't sound half bad?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on November 25, 2007, 03:17:29 PM

evil robot wrote on Sun, 25 November 2007 09:50

GrahameD wrote on Fri, 23 November 2007 16:50

What are they? TNC pre?

Looks like someone's ripping off Behringer (irony!):

http://www.behringer.com/T1952/index.cfm?lang=eng

Is the T1952 the one that apparently doesn't sound half bad?

LOL Thats why I said "they might look familiar" Actually since they have been doing it for years, I thought a little pay back wouldn't hurt. However, it's only the outward appearence that seems familiar. What I did was to cannabalize the B-------r, and mod and redesign the circuits. The prototype is still in China. They will be bringing me the final products to the NAMM show in January.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on December 03, 2007, 08:15:05 PM

Just a note. Even tho I am in Chicago (and freezing) a large group of orders were picked up today so watch your E-mails from fed ex for tracking info

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on December 22, 2007, 04:39:10 PM

Well every order has been shipped. There are 4 orders (one quite large) that I have not gotten a response for shipping. I sent notices (and many reminders), but haven't gotten a response. Is there anyone here that has changed their E-dress? The shipping notices are generated from the original PP requests from the very beginning. If I don't hear anything by the end of January, I will reverse all monies back to the purchasers and offer them for sale. So far the clear winner (favorite usable mics) are the ACM-310 (tube SDC), and the ACM-583 (FET)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on December 24, 2007, 06:49:51 PM

Just a quick note. On all the ACM tube mics, the PSUs are set for 220v.
I was burning some in, and you can see the tube glowing, and I happened to look at the voltage selector and it was at 220v. Anyone know if, at that setting, ( My guess is it would be under powered ) any damage could result??

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: compasspnt on December 24, 2007, 07:32:58 PM

I imagine under powering is less bad than overpowering, but...

Not sure what could result.

So everyone check their PSU voltage settings (including me).

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Greg Dixon on December 25, 2007, 05:55:13 AM

The most likely cause of damage would be from the heater voltage being too low. It shouldn't damage anything else but won't be good for the tubes.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on December 27, 2007, 12:51:02 PM

This gives me the same feeling as hearing a project I recorded on the radio. LOL
http://www.billyhydemusic.com.au/shop/index.cfm?action=view& amp;id=3073

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: RSettee on December 27, 2007, 12:55:39 PM

Hey, is there any mics available? Let me know, if so, and how much the price is. You can do this privately if that's more 'yo thing.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on December 27, 2007, 02:02:53 PM

Yeah I still have some, plus there are four large orders that have not been shipped. I''ve sent out many PP requests plus reminders, but haven't gotten a reply. I use the E-dress generated from the original MIC payment PP request. These mics were already paid for, but if I don't get a reply by mid January, I will reverse their original payment back to them thru Pay Pal and offer them here.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Fibes on December 27, 2007, 02:37:02 PM

Chance,

I'll be happy to pick up any leftovers you might have that will work here.

PM me when that time comes.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Devin Knutson on December 27, 2007, 03:59:48 PM

I would like to add my <AOL> (me too!) for any leftovers.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: compasspnt on December 27, 2007, 04:29:34 PM

CHANCE wrote on Thu, 27 December 2007 12:51

This gives me the same feeling as hearing a project I recorded on the radio. LOL
http://www.billyhydemusic.com.au/shop/index.cfm?action=view& amp; amp;id=3073

Cool. Is that a re-branded TNC?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on December 27, 2007, 04:52:24 PM

compasspnt wrote on Thu, 27 December 2007 13:29

CHANCE wrote on Thu, 27 December 2007 12:51

This gives me the same feeling as hearing a project I recorded on the radio. LOL
http://www.billyhydemusic.com.au/shop/index.cfm?action=view& amp; amp; amp;id=3073

Cool. Is that a re-branded TNC?

You better hurry up and know it

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: bigbone on December 27, 2007, 05:54:15 PM

Chance, i was in the first group buy in here, and i mis this one.if you ever
got some ''left over ', microphone, please let me know.

All the best

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: RSettee on December 27, 2007, 06:07:34 PM

CHANCE wrote on Thu, 27 December 2007 13:02

Cool stuff. Do you sell them individually?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on December 27, 2007, 07:12:48 PM

RSettee wrote on Thu, 27 December 2007 15:07

CHANCE wrote on Thu, 27 December 2007 13:02

Cool stuff. Do you sell them individually?

I will if they are not claimed. I would think that sometime, someone will realize that they spent a lot of money for something and remember their mics. I'll give them until the end of January.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: PoorGlory on December 29, 2007, 03:17:25 PM

If and when the remainder will be offered up for sale, how will the limited quantity be sold off... first come first serve? I know there's probably some other people like me that were in on the last failed group buy, but didn't find out about this one until after the order deadline *cough cough* Very Happy

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on December 29, 2007, 08:22:04 PM

PoorGlory wrote on Sat, 29 December 2007 12:17

I know there's probably some other people like me that were in on the last failed group buy, Very Happy

Failed group buy ? When was that ?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: compasspnt on December 29, 2007, 09:51:33 PM

Chance (aka "Walker") does not fail.

That word is not in his vocabulary.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: PoorGlory on December 30, 2007, 10:40:53 AM

I mean the one where the manufacturer shut us/you out... the one organized through Yahoo groups.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on December 30, 2007, 03:29:29 PM

PoorGlory wrote on Sun, 30 December 2007 07:40

I mean the one where the manufacturer shut us/you out... the one organized through Yahoo groups.

Oh yeah I remember that, but that was a GB from the UK for stereo ribbon mics. So that group buy fell thru ?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: PoorGlory on December 30, 2007, 05:32:35 PM

No, it was definitely the one preceding this one. You might consider this one to be the same thing, since the momentum carried over into this one. I believe it was with Alctron.... at one point there was an catalog posted and the manufacturer got upset since everyone was making comparisons to those mics and other companies' rebadged versions and pulled out. Everytime there was a new post to the Yahoo group, I would get an email.... so after it fell through I kept getting my inbox flooded with "Is this group buy still on?" and "how much are these mics?" posts so I pulled out of the email updates. Then I didn't find out about this one until like 2 days after the deadline. I mostly keep up on this through the homerecording.com board.... I know the previous buy I'm talking about has been mentioned here and there.... You mention it yourself in the 3rd post of this thread.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on December 30, 2007, 06:50:06 PM

Oh yeah now I remember, but that never even got to the ordering stage. I learned so much thru those blunders then forgot about it. Next month at NAMM, I will be meeting with not just sales people, but the engineers who oversee the entire manufacturing of these "CM's" I am now making notes of what to ask, what would be nice, and anything new I/we desire in mics. After the 310 went from thoughts and ideas I collected here on PSW and other places, they sent me the ptototype in two months (at no charge) and 4 months after that, we all got quite a few. Now they are bugging me to give them something else new to build. I wanted Lindahl or Jensen xfrmrs, but it was such a hassle and is much cheaper and easy to DIY. I hope to get the prototype lolly pop and omni capsules for the 310 at the show too.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: PoorGlory on December 31, 2007, 12:56:21 PM

Any ideas for some dynamic mics you could bring up to these guys at NAMM?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on December 31, 2007, 02:17:08 PM

Give me some ideas for mics that I can throw at them. ( or spoon feed them )

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: PoorGlory on December 31, 2007, 08:15:26 PM

I was thinking some large dynamic mic (like the RE-20, RE-27, SM7, Heil PR-30 or 40 etc) would be cool if it were interestingly designed... maybe a large dynamic mic with a swivel head or something, sort of like the EV N/D468, only larger. Just to offer something a little different from the ribbons and the tube condensers...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on December 31, 2007, 10:33:30 PM

PoorGlory wrote on Mon, 31 December 2007 17:15

this has been added to my notes

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Bill_Urick on January 03, 2008, 06:31:20 AM

Finally got a chance to use the ACM-2 last night. Tried it on acoustic guitar, although I went into it certain that this was the wrong choice. Big surprise. Needed a little top end, but otherwise sounded great. Please sir, can I have some more?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on January 08, 2008, 12:56:28 PM

Anyone needing help with ribbon sag, this might help

http://www.hometracked.com/2007/08/28/ribbon-mic-sag-and-rep air/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on January 22, 2008, 07:57:19 PM

Well theres a new FET ribbon and a new tube ribbon. Heres some pics and the tube is temporarly hard wired (just for evaluation) index.php/fa/7279/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on January 22, 2008, 07:59:05 PM

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on January 22, 2008, 08:01:23 PM

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on January 27, 2008, 01:54:52 PM

Heres some pictures of some who sre mod'ing their ACM-6802 mics

So my BV314 comes in the mail today and it's WAYYYYYY too big to fit on that 6802T board.... gonna have to call funkenwerk and see if they have one that isn't the size of rhode island....

anyways, i did a little bit of reading up on which caps to swap out, and i read that C8 is an important one to change. so i opened up the mic and i can't for the life of me find a C8.... here's some pics. can someone help me?

index.php/fa/7329/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on January 27, 2008, 01:57:04 PM

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on January 27, 2008, 02:04:39 PM

the little brown cap on the tube side reads:
F60
102J
and one end of it appears to be connected to the ground wire from the capsule and one end of R7 on the other side. the other end appears to be connected to a green wire that goes to the tube.

oh also, i located C7, which is the black cap that is slightly thinner than those big blue ones. (it says EFC 2.2uF 25V, or it might be 22uF, it's small and hard to tell....) still no C8 as far as i can see though.... unless that little guy on the tube side is C8, it doesn't appear to be labeled with a letter/number combo like the rest of them.

i am trying to locate a schematic to make this all much easier...

edit: so upon further inspection, it would make the most sense that the little brown cap on the tube side would be C8. now when it is suggested that a cap be removed, i assume i'd just jumper that connection instead?
index.php/fa/7331/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: TB-AV on January 27, 2008, 02:21:39 PM

Chance, I would assume that is C8 as well but I was going to ask you, are there any schematics for these mics and power supplies anywhere?

It would be nice to have some.

Also any chance you could point me to where the discussions are taking place about modifications. I have one rather lengthy and thorough discussion on one of the tube mics from the prior gb but that's about it.

Thanks,

Tom B.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on January 27, 2008, 02:21:56 PM

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on January 27, 2008, 02:24:05 PM

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: TB-AV on January 27, 2008, 02:24:23 PM

PS, I would hold off on jumpering that connection until you know exactly what is going on.

TB

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on January 27, 2008, 02:25:39 PM

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on January 27, 2008, 02:33:32 PM

TB-AV wrote on Sun, 27 January 2008 11:21

PM sent
I just requested a schem sheet

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: crazydoc on February 01, 2008, 11:05:37 AM

Here's a link to the schematic of the 6802 and presumably the 310:

http://homerecording.com/bbs/showpost.php?p=2864946&post count=2318

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on February 06, 2008, 08:06:16 AM

Heres the first look at the TnC mic pres

index.php/fa/7423/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on February 19, 2008, 06:18:30 PM

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 06 February 2008 05:06

Heres the first look at the TnC mic pres

index.php/fa/7423/0/

For all those that have been asking, here is a spec sheet on the "73" (bottom one in the pics) The other two are the 81 & 84 index.php/fa/7700/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on February 19, 2008, 06:20:17 PM

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on February 19, 2008, 06:21:43 PM

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Tomas Danko on February 20, 2008, 06:05:26 AM

Good work man!

Those are some quiet units for sure. Smile

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on February 20, 2008, 08:23:12 AM

To answer some of the many E-mail's and PM's, I'll answer them here corpretly. I didn't design these. I paid my tech, who services my board, to design them from the original "10" series (1073, 81, and 84)pres. The original prototype went into a Behringer enclosure. When I recieved the first prototype, we tried it out, made some changes and sent it back. The manufacturer then made our changes and repackaged it. They brought the repackaged pres to the NAMM show and let us test them for a day. We didn't go to the NAMM show on Friday so we could test. Several engineers, including my Neve tech, spent the day trying them out. Everyone was impressed and happy. I reluctantly had to return them on Saturday. So far no money has been exchanged. The cost will depend on the quantity to cover manufacturer tooling, and what I paid my tech to do the design. For example, (for members of PSW and other forums only) one pre ordered would be around $600.00. 100 pres ordered would be around $200.00. 200 would be around $175.00 each. Unfortunately the xfrmrs are china made and would be too costly to have them made with carnhill, but as with the mics, they can easilly be changed at your liesure.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: pete andrews on February 20, 2008, 10:03:59 AM

you can put me down for a couple of those ding-dongs for sure.

-pete

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: garret on February 20, 2008, 10:21:53 AM

Chance, I think you might have a huge hit on your hands.

Loads of people (me included) will snap up a good pre at that price...

100 pre-orders? You might get 500.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on February 20, 2008, 10:58:23 AM

500? Oh no,, what have I gotten myself into! LOL I might add that the prototypes were anodised blue in colour. That was the only thing that turned me off. It reminded me of the old MXR gear. Using photoshop, I changed the colour to anodised black/bronze. Still not sure about the colour. JM is green, etc. etc. I would like to have a signature colour for the faceplate. Any suggestions? I thought of a wrinkle finish, but that would attract dust and would be hard to keep clean.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: pete andrews on February 20, 2008, 11:02:52 AM

pink and black please.

-pete

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on February 20, 2008, 11:05:29 AM

pete andrews wrote on Wed, 20 February 2008 08:02

pink and black please.

-pete

Didn't "ART" use pink graphics on black at one time? Or was it "Zoom".

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: pete andrews on February 20, 2008, 11:10:49 AM

Ewwww yeah -
but i'm talkin hot pink faceplates w/ black lettering.

*covers head and runs*

-pete

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on February 20, 2008, 11:26:27 AM

I might add that it is not my intention to use this forum as a platform to promote a product. The forum members will get these at cost. The benifit will be the added quantity which brings our cost down significantly. I am only showing them here and I have put together a private E-mailing list for active forum members. Interested members can E-mail me with "TnC gear" in the subject header to be on the E-list. I will inform everyone via E-mail (as I did with the mics) with all of the $ transaction paperwork such as transfer of funds, dock fees, duty, broker fees, etc.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: GrahameD on February 20, 2008, 12:18:49 PM

Chance, this is a very different situation from a manufacturer shilling gear, or somebody posting links to ebay auctions.

Rather, you're doing us a huge favour with these group buys. I hope you make a few dollars (or a lot of dollars) from this, it's obvious that it takes a lot of work.

- Grahame

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: compasspnt on February 20, 2008, 05:41:56 PM

Black or silver, maybe white.

Colours suck.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on February 20, 2008, 07:52:56 PM

compasspnt wrote on Wed, 20 February 2008 14:41

Black or silver, maybe white.

Colours suck.

Black?, well they're sort of black now, silver, TC and Behri**** have that, but white! I never even thought of that. Hmm, I'll have to get my photochops together and try that.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: garret on February 20, 2008, 08:39:04 PM

I vote for a pewter gray. Black lettering... black knobs. Just a clean, industrial look. Something like the looks of the REDD.37 and TG consoles... Check Recording the Beatles for some nice pics.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on February 20, 2008, 10:50:39 PM

Symetrix is that gray

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: organica on February 20, 2008, 11:10:37 PM

don't go "retro" ( for retro's sake ) .

this might be interesting ..... or lame
*)Olive ( not drab nor olive green but ... Olive )
*)Lime for lettering , markings & logos .......
*)but only as long as both the different knob's color schemes match .

or what T said , " Black or silver, maybe white."

my daughters who are 4 & 2 said ..... " orange & pink "

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: maxim on February 21, 2008, 12:14:28 AM

not gold

maybe silver...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Barkley McKay on February 21, 2008, 08:17:05 AM

Off white cream like SMEG fridges?
May be nice with black knobs and chrome tops.

barks

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: KB_S1 on February 21, 2008, 08:36:24 AM

Brilliant white seems to be in vogue just now. That may date it though.
Not sure what is happening over the water but in europe almost all premium and sports cars are launched in white just now.
Then there is the apple 'i' range.

One thing I really like is an enamel like finish that is easy to keep clean.
Rough crackle finishes often look great but can be a pig to prevent from becoming grubby.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Barkley McKay on February 21, 2008, 08:57:54 AM

I second the enamel look.

barks

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on February 21, 2008, 09:15:22 AM

Are you talking "hi-gloss" like in porcelain?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: KB_S1 on February 21, 2008, 10:01:24 AM

CHANCE wrote on Thu, 21 February 2008 14:15

Are you talking "hi-gloss" like in porcelain?

Yeah, like a good old fashioned hospital sink. Heavy duty but smooth feel.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: pete andrews on February 21, 2008, 12:06:49 PM

I'd actually put a vote in for NO vu meter on these. Keep cost down and won't look as "cheap" - know what I mean?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on February 21, 2008, 12:22:11 PM

pete andrews wrote on Thu, 21 February 2008 09:06

I'd actually put a vote in for NO vu meter on these. Keep cost down and won't look as "cheap" - know what I mean?

Unfortunately it's too late in the game for that.I already signed off and approved the prototypes. To try to explain and have them make another change would be a nightmare. What seems simple to us can be so misinterpreted and confusing to them. Don't ask me why. The only mods I can still submit is colour. The prototypes came to me in anodised blue. They so reminded me of my old MXR gear, that I PS'd them to stainless black/bronze. Many products have a signature colour like JM green. I am trying to get my photochops together and try a high gloss white. I have some white (brand) EQ's, but would enjoy a sig colour too. I only wish my photochops were better. Any takers?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: compasspnt on February 21, 2008, 12:44:11 PM

"T" could do it.

Oh wait, that's me...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Bill_Urick on February 21, 2008, 06:47:12 PM

What about pink on blue? Perhaps incorporating some sort of tropical logo?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on February 21, 2008, 07:22:16 PM

So many have mentioned "pink" Heres a post from another board

Join Date: Dec 2005
Location: Alabama
Posts: 708
Rep Power: 11359

Quote:
Originally Posted by RightOnMusic
yeah maybe if they're pink, our significant others wont mind us spending the money so much...

"honey, i bought this for you! i'm just gonna keep it in my rack since you dont have a rack."

She might slap you for saying she is "FLAT".

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: PoorGlory on February 22, 2008, 09:49:55 AM

I seriously hope you guys are kidding about the pink color....

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on February 22, 2008, 10:33:30 AM

I don't think pink will work. Heres some really good PS ideas that a fellow poster did
I (personally like the "teal")

http://www.spottedmuse.com/pre_colors.html

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: compasspnt on February 22, 2008, 10:38:47 AM

I'll try to post a photo of our white Lucas 4 chan pre.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on February 22, 2008, 11:03:15 AM

compasspnt wrote on Fri, 22 February 2008 07:38

I'll try to post a photo of our white Lucas 4 chan pre.

Yes please do

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: pete andrews on February 22, 2008, 12:54:12 PM

yeah - teal or white.
-pete

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Kris on February 22, 2008, 01:01:19 PM

It would be killer if you did JUST an eq...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on February 22, 2008, 01:06:03 PM

Kris wrote on Fri, 22 February 2008 10:01

It would be killer if you did JUST an eq...

Oh no,, now my brain is now swimming in ideas LOL As soon as the specs iare in from their lab on the 81 and 84, we'll move.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: organica on February 22, 2008, 01:19:21 PM

CHANCE wrote on Fri, 22 February 2008 10:33

I don't think pink will work. Heres some really good PS ideas that a fellow poster did
I (personally like the "teal")

http://www.spottedmuse.com/pre_colors.html

fwiw - i was messing with the idea that you might think of choosing colors that start with the letters T & C . & maybe N .
teal , chocolate ect .....

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: matti on February 22, 2008, 01:27:42 PM

Sorry

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Kris on February 22, 2008, 02:00:04 PM

CHANCE wrote on Fri, 22 February 2008 13:06

Kris wrote on Fri, 22 February 2008 10:01

It would be killer if you did JUST an eq...

Oh no,, now my brain is now swimming in ideas LOL As soon as the specs iare in from their lab on the 81 and 84, we'll move.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: compasspnt on February 22, 2008, 08:23:03 PM

Here's the MP-VMO, done in white.

All of our stuff is black, white, or silver.

All colours on gear (except for knob caps) are teh suck (even the fully green knobs on the STC8 are yuck).

Makes it look like Orban, or MXR, or Joe Meek.

None of that makes for a good association.

(I even hate to look at my API gear that has blue on the panel...but I still use it.)

index.php/fa/7764/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: C.Cash on February 22, 2008, 09:02:28 PM

Pretty

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Tomas Danko on February 23, 2008, 08:08:12 AM

Some kind of enamel or otherwise cream white akin towards greyish, with a more matte finish, would be very nice.

And then you make the branding statement using unique knobs, be it the shape or just a great big and well known piece but in a different color. Could even be only the center spot of the knob that is colored that way.

My .02 anyway.

Other than that, I'm sure there is some very pale variation of orange that's not been taken and made famous just yet.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on February 23, 2008, 11:19:21 AM

compasspnt wrote on Fri, 22 February 2008 17:23

WOW,, now THATS class

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on February 23, 2008, 03:08:29 PM

Strange,, someone posted info about this GB on the GS forum and it was immeadiately locked and closed. index.php/fa/7793/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Ryan Massey on February 23, 2008, 04:37:01 PM

CHANCE wrote on Sat, 23 February 2008 12:08

Strange,, someone posted info about this GB on the GS forum and it was immeadiately locked and closed. index.php/fa/7793/0/

Yikes- I hope they don't come over here to find out more!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: compasspnt on February 23, 2008, 05:38:00 PM

CHANCE wrote on Sat, 23 February 2008 11:19

compasspnt wrote on Fri, 22 February 2008 17:23

WOW,, now THATS class

In every way.

You should hear it.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: bigbone on February 23, 2008, 07:20:43 PM

CHANCE wrote on Sat, 23 February 2008 15:08

Strange,, someone posted info about this GB on the GS forum and it was immeadiately locked and closed. index.php/fa/7793/0/

Can they ban us also.............hehehehehe
Twisted Evil

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on February 26, 2008, 07:57:37 AM

With regards to the PM's and E-mail, there were errors in the specs for the ACMP-73. It should read:
"The distortion not more than 0.5% is at +26db max output, at 0dbu output THD is from 20 Hz to 20 kHz, and the DI is 20 Hz to 20 kHz"

I'll post the specs for the 81 & 84 later today

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on February 26, 2008, 04:30:20 PM

Heres the specs for the "81"

index.php/fa/7846/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on February 26, 2008, 04:32:59 PM

And the "84"

index.php/fa/7847/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: bigbone on February 26, 2008, 06:18:19 PM

Chance.....Got any idee of the $$$$ of these baby...

Thank You

jean

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: pete andrews on February 26, 2008, 06:39:34 PM

that will depend on how many are ordered
-pete

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: bigbone on February 26, 2008, 06:55:09 PM

pete andrews wrote on Tue, 26 February 2008 18:39

that will depend on how many are ordered
-pete

I know that, but is there a figure...100 200 500 1,000 $$$$$$ about..

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: MI on February 26, 2008, 08:06:53 PM

Hey Jean!

Dinner was fun last night, and your THUNDER drumming was amazing Very Happy

My memory is pretty good still!

Chance had said:

"one pre ordered would be around $600.00. 100 pres ordered would be around $200.00. 200 would be around $175.00 each"

I'm hoping for the 200 price break... Twisted Evil

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Jeff Chitouras on February 26, 2008, 08:27:56 PM

I'm hoping for the $200 price point, too.

Hey Chance, Did you have the opportunity to test the DI section of the 73? What's your take versus your 'favorite' DI box(es)?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: bigbone on February 26, 2008, 09:23:16 PM

Mario I. wrote on Tue, 26 February 2008 20:06

Hey Jean!

Dinner was fun last night, and your THUNDER drumming was amazing Very Happy

Hey Mario , yes the hang was fun last nite.....

And thank's for the info......200 $ will be awsome. i will take a pair if so.....

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Roger Langvik on February 27, 2008, 05:25:43 AM

Hi!
Long time lurker here.
Just wondering how the sound of the different eq-es or units differ from each other.
Is there a drastic difference? and if so; which?

And the Iron replacement scheme, are these something you'll ship with the units Chance?

The more that order the lower the price!

Thanks for the initiative!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on February 27, 2008, 08:24:35 AM

First question was about the Di. I compared it to my Countryman, Joe Meek, and the brick, and they're at the least up to snuff with all the Di's I have. As for prices, If I haven't said it already, Prices will be quoted and updated via private E-mail to those on the E-mail list. Forum members will be getting these at cost. I don't want this cost to be made public because many have shown an interest in selling them.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: MI on February 27, 2008, 09:13:05 AM

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 27 February 2008 08:24

Sorry Chance, hope I wasn't out of line, just quoted what was on you message a page back... Sad

I think you might consider a "cap" limited to 8 per buyer to avoid people trying to resell your pre's.

Thanks again.

MI

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on February 27, 2008, 10:21:03 AM

Mario I. wrote on Wed, 27 February 2008 06:13

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 27 February 2008 08:24

Sorry Chance, hope I wasn't out of line, just quoted what was on you message a page back... Sad

I think you might consider a "cap" limited to 8 per buyer to avoid people trying to resell your pre's.

Thanks again.

MI

Hey, Thats OK, I don't care if they're resold. A good friend of mine in New Mexico is reselling them like crazy on E-bay The price I stated IS FOR FORUM MEMBERS ONLY.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: chris carter on February 27, 2008, 01:49:22 PM

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 27 February 2008 05:24

That's useful info. Would you mind comparing/contrasting the pres to other pres that you have?

I actually have a Brick that I like a lot for cutting vocals. While the 73 obviously has more features, how would you compare it sonically (very different design, I know, but it's a point of reference)? Or how does it compare sonically against a Great River, or your own 1073 pres?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on February 27, 2008, 02:52:21 PM

chris carter wrote on Wed, 27 February 2008 10:49

how would you compare it sonically (very different design, I know, but it's a point of reference)? Or how does it compare sonically against a Great River, or your own 1073 pres?

Thats a hard question to answer. All those pres that you mentioned, are excellent pres. The only thing I can say is that "it's the closest thing at these prices, that you'll get that comes that close to a 1073. There were 4 engineers who own 73's, 81's and 84's, who tried them out and are in this GB for 40 pieces. I refrain from making too many claims because what sounds authentic and pleasing to one person, might not be what someone else is looking for.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Bill_Urick on February 27, 2008, 08:28:47 PM

Chance, is this group buy only for the pres, or can we order mics as well? Also, what is the deadline for placing the order?

Tanks!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on February 28, 2008, 08:54:55 AM

Hey Bill.
Yeah, it's for both mics and pres. Don't have a deadline yet.
This is usually my slow time of the year, but things are getting crazy around here, but I hope to send out an update E-mail to everyone on the E-list this weekend

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Crash on March 06, 2008, 12:37:25 PM

Those pres have my head a churning. I am looking forward to the e-mail with more info.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: pete andrews on March 06, 2008, 03:11:29 PM

chance - any way to get an email to The List with exactly what available to order this go-round?

-pete

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on March 06, 2008, 07:59:22 PM

One of the forum members put this registration site together for me. It' will make things much smoother. Good job Randy thank you.

http://www.n344rb.com/MUSICIANSWORKSHOP/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Bill_Urick on March 06, 2008, 08:37:13 PM

Chance,

Will the ACM1200 be available on this buy?

AND!!!

Any idea when prices will be posted?

AND!!!

When do you think dealing with all this will make you a crazy person?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on March 06, 2008, 08:55:45 PM

Bill Urick wrote on Thu, 06 March 2008 17:37

Chance,

Will the ACM1200 be available on this buy?

AND!!!

Any idea when prices will be posted?

AND!!!

When do you think dealing with all this will make you a crazy person?

Yes the 1200 will be available. I am waiting for the final prices. I think they are at a trade show in Germany.

Crazy?? I'm doing this for therapy.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Greg Dixon on March 06, 2008, 08:56:46 PM

Bill Urick wrote on Fri, 07 March 2008 12:37

When do you think dealing with all this will make you a crazy person?

I think it already has... all that gear appears to be free! Maybe he'll charge a lot for shipping to compensate.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Berolzheimer on March 07, 2008, 02:08:48 AM

Looking good, Chance. I might want to add to what I put on the reg page once the prices are more set, would that complicate things for you?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: pete andrews on March 07, 2008, 08:24:56 AM

+1 on adding.
also - i registered - but i never was prompted for a password to go in to the User Console to update the order? anyone else? nothing in the registration email either.

-pete

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Greg Thompson on March 07, 2008, 03:52:19 PM

I did the "forgot my password" button. It emailed me back and said the password was "password". Try that.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: pete andrews on March 07, 2008, 10:57:24 PM

ok - no one go in and change my order to 1500 of Chance's new pre amps!

-pete

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Zetajazz44 on March 07, 2008, 11:45:59 PM

Hi All,

I am the guy who is working with Chance on the online registration for this group buy... I'll give a few lines on how this system works that should clear up any confusion.

1. To be included in this group buy, go to: http://www.n344rb.com/MUSICIANSWORKSHOP and fill out the form to register for the group buy. Upon successful registration you will receive an email receipt of your registration.

2. After successfully registering, return to the same page/link: http://www.n344rb.com/MUSICIANSWORKSHOP and click on the button on that page that is labeled: "User Console". This will take you to a login page for a User Console that will allow you to manage your products of the group buy.

3. On your first visit to the User Console, you will use your email address that you registered for the group buy with, and your password will be "password", without the quotes of course. Upon logging in, you will be able to change your password, which I highly recommend doing. CAPTCHA is case sensitive. For anyone that doesn't know, CAPTCHA means: "Completely Automated Public Turing test to tell Computers and Humans Apart". It makes sure that the login is being performed by a human and not a machine....

This is the first time this system is being used, so I'm sure there will be bugs that raise their heads from time to time. Please post any problems that you have here, and Chance or I will work to resolve them.

Thanks in advance,

Randy
Zetajazz44

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on March 08, 2008, 01:04:37 AM

Thanks for helping out on this, Randy.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on March 08, 2008, 03:59:46 AM

Do we have a rough deadline for the orders yet? I notice there's no longer prices listed for the mics. Will they be updated soon? There are a couple of mics at the bottom of the page that aren't on the order sheet. Is that meant to be that way? They look interesting!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Roger Langvik on March 08, 2008, 09:22:43 AM

I've made some polls according to Chances wishes that someone does so.
It will give Chance a ruff assessment of the lay of the land.

Everyone seriously interested go in and vote!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on March 08, 2008, 12:07:11 PM

hi chance, i just tried to register via the link posted, and i got this error:

"ERROR!!!

The email address that you have provided is already registered for this particular group buy.

Use the BACK button on your browser to return to the form to correct the information that you want to submit."

i definitely didnt register and just forget. hopefully, this is just a glitch, like you mentioned.

for now, im registering with another email. i just hope someone didnt hijack my email for some kind of funny business in your buy....

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigbone on March 08, 2008, 12:24:18 PM

at the price in the e-mail.....i will take 2 preamp...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TB-AV on March 08, 2008, 01:01:20 PM

BigBone,
http://recforums.prosoundweb.com/index.php/t/22208/10806/

==============

Does anyone know what Chance means in latest email by "the standalone will not be ready"?

What is the standalone?

TB

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on March 08, 2008, 01:27:43 PM

The standalone was the non-rackmount. It was the prototype that has not yet had the enclosure made and was shown with another brands enclosure which would violate trademarks.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigbone on March 08, 2008, 01:46:54 PM

TB-AV wrote on Sat, 08 March 2008 13:01

Thank you TB.....i did vote.. Smile

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Zetajazz44 on March 09, 2008, 12:10:05 AM

rjd2 wrote on Sat, 08 March 2008 11:07

I just checked the database and there ARE 2 email address' registered to your username on this forum, rjd2. Both of the email address' registered are hotmail accounts, and neither have any products chosen as yet.

Would you like for me to delete both of them so you can start from scratch?

This isn't a glitch in the system though, there are 2 email address' registered to your screen/user name here...

No worries though, I can fix it... tell me how you'd like to proceed...

Randy
Zetajazz44

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on March 09, 2008, 08:22:56 AM

Relocated

http://recforums.prosoundweb.com/index.php/t/22208/8119/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: seedyunderbelly.com on March 09, 2008, 09:40:11 AM

Interested +

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Zetajazz44 on March 09, 2008, 01:57:05 PM

It has been brought to my attention that some of you have been having trouble registering for this group buy due to the email address field being limited to 35 characters.

I've modified it to allow 50 characters, which is also the max I have set on the database... If you need more, let me know and I'll modify the database to allow more characters as well.

Thanks in advance,

Randy
Zetajazz44

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on March 09, 2008, 05:16:26 PM

Is there a cutoff date for this group buy yet?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on March 09, 2008, 05:50:28 PM

Greg Dixon wrote on Sun, 09 March 2008 14:16

Is there a cutoff date for this group buy yet?

There have been many latecomers and the quantity affects the cost on the mic pres

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Zetajazz44 on March 09, 2008, 07:19:13 PM

CHANCE wrote on Sun, 09 March 2008 16:50

Greg Dixon wrote on Sun, 09 March 2008 14:16

Is there a cutoff date for this group buy yet?

There have been many latecomers and the quantity affects the cost on the mic pres

Currently, here are the quantities for the group buy, for those whom have registered so far:

42 Mic PreAmp - Rackmount #1 - ACMP-84
64 Mic PreAmp - Rackmount #2 - ACMP-81
116 Mic PreAmp - Rackmount #3 - ACMP-73
27 Microphone - ACM-583 FET
38 Microphone - ACM-310
31 Microphone - ACM-3
11 Microphone - ACM-2
36 Microphone - ACM-6802T
5 Microphone - ACM-1
3 Microphone - ACM-4
14 Microphone - ACM-100
13 Microphone - ACM-200
21 Microphone - AMC-300
40 Microphone - ACM-900
6 Microphone - ACM-1200
0 Microphone - ACM-70

TOTAL -467

Thanks in advance,

Randy
Zetajazz44

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Nizzle on March 09, 2008, 08:07:59 PM

I signed up and placed an order...How do I pay???

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Podgorny on March 10, 2008, 12:30:01 AM

CHANCE wrote on Sun, 09 March 2008 16:50

There have been many latecomers and the quantity affects the cost on the mic pres

I'd love to get a final price on these, because while I'd prefer the 81, if there aren't enough orders to get the price point down, I'll take the 73. After the ACM-3 experience, I don't want to drop a grand on a pair of pres and find out that their ribbons are sagging, so to speak. If they're $175 apiece and I'm not thrilled with them, it's no big deal.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Podgorny on March 10, 2008, 12:32:46 AM

Oh wait, I just logged into the Group Buy User Console, and saw that the prices show up.

Nevermind.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: maxim on March 10, 2008, 12:39:52 AM

i like the sagging ribbon

one side sounds darker than the other

better on gtr amp, imo...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Podgorny on March 10, 2008, 12:50:57 AM

maxim wrote on Sun, 09 March 2008 23:39

i like the sagging ribbon

one side sounds darker than the other

If you want mine, just pay the shipping.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Zetajazz44 on March 10, 2008, 02:40:01 AM

Podgorny wrote on Sun, 09 March 2008 23:50

maxim wrote on Sun, 09 March 2008 23:39

i like the sagging ribbon

one side sounds darker than the other

If you want mine, just pay the shipping.

Shoot, I'll take it for the cost of shipping...

Will you take PayPal for payment?

Thanks in advance,

Randy
Zetajazz44

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on March 10, 2008, 07:55:05 AM

Mr. Chance,

Is the ACM-583FET transformer coupled?

M goi nei sin....

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: pete andrews on March 10, 2008, 08:52:34 AM

chance - any word on the replacement ribbon motors for the ACM-3's?

-pete

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on March 10, 2008, 09:42:14 AM

Bill Urick wrote on Mon, 10 March 2008 04:55

Mr. Chance,

Is the ACM-583FET transformer coupled?

No it is not

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Rader Ranch on March 10, 2008, 10:31:55 AM

is there a historical reason why the hi and lo pass controls are backwards (in reverse order) on the 1084?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on March 10, 2008, 10:50:07 AM

Rader Ranch wrote on Mon, 10 March 2008 07:31

is there a historical reason why the hi and lo pass controls are backwards (in reverse order) on the 1084?

Interesting. I never even noticed that. No reason, probably a communication error.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Crash on March 10, 2008, 12:06:11 PM

So.. when are we gonna get together the group buy on transformers after these preamps come in? I say in jest of course...

Chance, beat me with a wet noodle if this info. is out there and I missed it, but what is the time frame on this buy? I have two other guys that are going to go in with me on some preamps and I am trying to work out when things need to happen order wise with them. It is possible I missed it trying to digest 16 pages of info. Any possibility we could get a sticky at the top of the page for quick reference?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on March 10, 2008, 12:17:59 PM

OK, made this a Sticky temporarily, so you can reference it quickly.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Crash on March 10, 2008, 12:21:50 PM

Sorry Terry, I guess what I meant to say is a sticky with the pertinent "drop dead" dates, etc...if those have been determined. This is nice too, don't get me wrong.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Rader Ranch on March 10, 2008, 12:27:50 PM

xformer group buy is a also fine idea, we just shouldn't expect Chance to set this one up too Wink

Could enough folks agree on a brand to make it happen though?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: organica on March 10, 2008, 12:59:57 PM

do you know of a cut off date for ordering on this ?

pete andrews wrote on Mon, 10 March 2008 08:52

chance - any word on the replacement ribbon motors for the ACM-3's?

-pete

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on March 10, 2008, 01:33:17 PM

Crash wrote on Mon, 10 March 2008 12:21

Sorry Terry, I guess what I meant to say is a sticky with the pertinent "drop dead" dates, etc...if those have been determined. This is nice too, don't get me wrong.

Thnx. Prob best to just do it here, and keep the thread count for this down.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on March 10, 2008, 02:06:16 PM

So... bearing in mind that the best mic I currently own is the AT4040... what's the verdict on the 6802T? I'm thinking two of these in figure8 set up as a Blumlein pair into the 73 pres for choir, drum overheads, guitar, etc. This would probably make my life just that little bit better, no?

Also, Chance... there is a QTY field for the 6802T on the order form, but how does one order the $16 shockmount... ?

Thanks,

- Devin

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Podgorny on March 10, 2008, 02:52:24 PM

Zetajazz44 wrote on Mon, 10 March 2008 01:40

Shoot, I'll take it for the cost of shipping...

Will you take PayPal for payment?

Sure will.

PM me your address and I'll get a total.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on March 10, 2008, 07:51:09 PM

Devin Knutson wrote on Mon, 10 March 2008 11:06

I was scrolling the pages and discovered this is for now a "stick"
The shock mount for the 6802 is now included at no extra charge.
ONLY IF YOU CALL IN THE NEXT TEN MINUTES. (only kidding) but yeah, it's now part of the package.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on March 10, 2008, 08:03:22 PM

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 10 March 2008 19:51

ONLY IF YOU CALL IN THE NEXT TEN MINUTES.

BUT WAIT!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Tom L on March 10, 2008, 08:19:22 PM

It slices, it dices, it makes julienned fries!!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on March 11, 2008, 06:26:04 AM

Chance, can you tell us what the difference is between the ACM-6802T and the ACM-1200?

The 1200 has a pad, low pass filter (which I'm assuming should be high pass), looks cooler and costs more than the 6802T. Otherwise the specs are similar. Are they different capsules? What tube does the 1200 use?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on March 11, 2008, 08:17:11 AM

Chance should confirm, but I

think

the 1200 is this:

"9-Pattern Tube Microphone w/ dual 32mm gold sputtered thin Mylar capsules

-10 dB pad & 80 Hz LF roll off switches

'HAND SELECTED' Russian made 6072A , JJ ECC81 or ECC83 Slovak Republic Tubes"

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Tom L on March 11, 2008, 08:27:34 AM

Hi Chance,

Do you have a ballpark schedule of events?:
- cutoff order date
- when (and how) is payment due
- rough ETA on delivery

THANKS!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigbone on March 11, 2008, 08:44:35 AM

Terry

On all of the microphones of the group buy from chance, can you recommend, for
drums room or OH, i already got some ribbon from the last goup buy,and looking for maybe some LDC
i got a small room (12X10 with 10'' celling) and use daking pre's .all advice will be appreciate

All the best

Jean

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on March 11, 2008, 09:22:24 AM

bigbone wrote on Tue, 11 March 2008 08:44

Hey Jean,

Firstly, have not personally heard (nor even seen in person) all of the microphones, so we are all somewhat shooting in the dark here, going by specs or other print information.

But I would think, from reading and looking at photos, that the 1200's would be the ones for such LDC usage. This (again, I think) are the C12-ish versions.

Also to check out would be the 583 (fet) and the tube ribbon (900?)

I'm going to get a couple of 1200's to try for that purpose.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Crash on March 11, 2008, 10:09:44 AM

Tom L wrote on Tue, 11 March 2008 07:27

Hi Chance,

Do you have a ballpark schedule of events?:
- cutoff order date
- when (and how) is payment due
- rough ETA on delivery

THANKS!

This is what I was after a few threads up. I have two other yahoos to coordinate with on this deal.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Roger Langvik on March 11, 2008, 10:41:22 AM

Crash wrote on Tue, 11 March 2008 15:09

I have two other yahoos to coordinate with on this deal.

And Chance only has US! Very Happy

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Crash on March 11, 2008, 11:00:03 AM

Roger Langvik wrote on Tue, 11 March 2008 09:41

Crash wrote on Tue, 11 March 2008 15:09

I have two other yahoos to coordinate with on this deal.

And Chance only has US! Very Happy

Make no mistake, I think Chance the braver man than I to coordinate this deal. I am sure I would have off'd myself in frustration by now. But I am glad Chance is the man on this.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Tom L on March 11, 2008, 11:05:57 AM

I only have one yahoo to deal with (umm, that would be me)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigbone on March 11, 2008, 02:09:28 PM

Terry
Thank you again for your reply. i know we are doing some test, but i do trust
your judgement...and appreciate all your advice

All the best

Jean

Title: Musician's Workshop Group Buy Instructions
Post by: Zetajazz44 on March 11, 2008, 02:12:44 PM

Due to the volume of "How To" questions being asked about the Group Buy, I thought I'd start this new thread and I'll post instructions, along with screen shots of how to proceed through the registration and product management sections of the group buy.

Musician's Workshop Group Buy Instructions

Thanks in advance,

Randy
Zetajazz44

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Crash on March 11, 2008, 04:50:14 PM

OK, the yahoos chimed in finally...looks like I am down for 6 ACMP84's at this point. I am doing what I can to drive the price down.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Droplede on March 11, 2008, 04:59:58 PM

I'm in.

Woo-hoo! New tools. And what a great way to taste new microphone flavors -- I'll take mine in lollipop, please.

TNC = The Nifty Chaps. I greatly appreciate all the work y'all have been throwing into this.

-doug

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on March 11, 2008, 05:20:45 PM

compasspnt wrote on Tue, 11 March 2008 23:17

'HAND SELECTED' Russian made 6072A , JJ ECC81 or ECC83 Slovak Republic Tubes"

Ah yes, I often wonder about 'Hand Selected'. As in someone put their hand into a box of tubes and 'selected' the first one they found.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Nick Sevilla on March 11, 2008, 06:44:55 PM

I'm in for two ribbon mics, one tube and one FET.

Thanks!!!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Jeff Chitouras on March 11, 2008, 11:46:37 PM

Is a shock mount available for the 1200? If not, what 3rd party shock mounts would people here suggest?

(Thanks Chance! And Roger)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on March 12, 2008, 12:56:08 AM

Pretty sure the 1200 comes in a metal case with psu, shock mount, cable.

Again, Chance should confirm though.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: pete andrews on March 12, 2008, 08:24:59 AM

we just got a pair of {ANOTHER BRAND OF C-12 SIMILAR} mics which look to be exactly the same as the 1200 there with the exception of the shiny {COLOUR} body... They came with real nice shockmounts (although the thumb screws are murder to use), case, power supply, extra elastics, etc).

Never used a C12 before but these mics sound very nice - very bright - but not with that nasty ringy stuff up top (at least that i can hear).

pete

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: pete andrews on March 12, 2008, 09:40:51 AM

Yikes - sorry! i totally forgot.
-pete

Embarassed

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: pete andrews on March 12, 2008, 09:51:39 AM

3 in a row here -

Chance - can you get your boys over there to send along replacement ribbon motors for the ACM-3? how about an extra field in the oder form to designate how many each member may need included in their order?

pete

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on March 12, 2008, 10:05:45 AM

pete andrews wrote on Wed, 12 March 2008 06:51

All the ACM-3's will come with "extra ribbons" (just in case) They are also sending replacment ribbons for all the mics that had ribbon sag in the last GB. We think we found the problem. The mics sit in the case with the flat part of the ribbon sitting parallel to the ground. We THINK that if they have the mic rotated 90 degrees, any jarring in transporting will not put stress on the corrugation part of the ribbon. If this cures the problem, many of the brand name mics (who have the same problem), will also have this problem cured. Thanks to "Marik" for this tip.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: pete andrews on March 12, 2008, 10:07:50 AM

nice-
so how about those of us who have ACM-3s from the last GB who want to get the replacements? i need to get 2 thrown in with my order...

pete

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on March 12, 2008, 10:10:44 AM

I just got word that our own "Oliver" is making or has made a transformer for the 6802 and it's on its way to Marik now. It seems that the xfrmrs are a weak link here.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on March 12, 2008, 06:41:41 PM

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 12 March 2008 10:10

I just got word that our own "Oliver" is making or has made a transformer for the 6802 and it's on its way to Marik now. It seems that the xfrmrs are a weak link here.

That complicates things. 1200 or 6802? Waddaya think?
1200 looks cooler, 6802 easier to place.
Now you can fit a Tab xformer in each.
Think they'll sound very different?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on March 13, 2008, 12:25:09 PM

Hi,

I was wondering whether orders were still being accepted.

I put in orders for a couple items on the site last week but have not heard anything yet.

Thanks in advance!
-j

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on March 13, 2008, 01:02:02 PM

0dbfs wrote on Thu, 13 March 2008 09:25

Hi,

I was wondering whether orders were still being accepted.

I put in orders for a couple items on the site last week but have not heard anything yet.

Thanks in advance!
-j

Just a little while longer

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: littlehat on March 13, 2008, 01:25:28 PM

Any idea how much longer?
I'm actually hoping this drags a little so I can get a couple pieces for friends.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on March 13, 2008, 02:21:27 PM

Well, I plan to start requesting payments sometime next week, and judging from the last go round, I think a month is long enough.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on March 13, 2008, 02:34:22 PM

I've had some unexpected expenses come up and I've had to remove the 73s from my order. Sorry bout that gang. Although I doubt whether I was going to be the one to push us over the price threshold anyway.

I really really want them too, but I just can't justify it right this minute.

Still in for mics though.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: recordinghacks on March 13, 2008, 07:15:15 PM

I just signed on via the User Console. It sounds from Chance's recent posts that it's not too late.

I have two questions about the gear in this pending purchase:

... but then I spent an evening reading about 1000 messages in this and another forum, and came back here to edit out my questions. Sorry to interrupt. Smile

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Zetajazz44 on March 13, 2008, 10:47:02 PM

recordinghacks wrote on Thu, 13 March 2008 18:15

I just signed on via the User Console. It sounds from Chance's recent posts that it's not too late.

I have two questions about the gear in this pending purchase:

- The ACM-1200 looks like a C12 clone. The comparable mic in the aborted Yahoo "great mic import" group was a popular item, with lots of chatter about swapping capsules, transformers, etc., but the order quantities I saw posted earlier in this thread show only 6 buyers for the ACM-1200. Does everyone else already have a cabinet full of C12 clones, or do you know something I don't know about the ACM-1200? Or is everyone thinking the ACM-6802 is a superior 9-pattern tube mic?

- Is it likely that the folks who offer mods for {ANOTHER BRAND IMPORT} can mod the ACM-1200 just as easily?

- The ACMP-73 is the most popular pre; is that due to the DI? Is the actual preamp circuit (apart from the EQ section) any different across these three pre's? (I'm not very familiar with the original Neve 10-series gear.)

It became a task to keep everyone updated on the quantites of the group buy by making posts on the boards, so I built this page that is database driven and displays real-time quantity numbers:
http://www.n344rb.com/MUSICIANSWORKSHOP/QuantityByProduct.as p

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on March 14, 2008, 09:44:08 AM

Randy, I am blown away at how organized your way of thinking is. You MUST have a ton of experience doing what you have done here. You seem to have the insight of what is needed, and then know what to do to achieve it. Many thanks

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Zetajazz44 on March 14, 2008, 10:55:21 AM

CHANCE wrote on Fri, 14 March 2008 08:44

Many thanks to you for putting these group buys together!

For my living, I write back-office software for 'larger' companies...mostly in the financial sector. Typically, when I'm brought in, the office wants to operate completely paperless...and I write all the inner-office software to make that happen.

I know how much of a headache all of this must be for you and just thought I'd pitch in and help all I could...

Again, many thanks to you Chance!

Randy
Zetajazz44

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on March 14, 2008, 11:46:14 AM

Both of you are doing a great job and need to be rewarded!
Come to Nassau, have a beer or 6 on me.

http://img514.imageshack.us/img514/1426/kalikmc6.jpg

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigbone on March 14, 2008, 12:53:48 PM

Yes Guys....a millons thank's for that.........
And by the way, Chance is the 1200 microphone come with some kind of shockmount...thank you

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on March 14, 2008, 04:46:25 PM

Or my friend Jimmy Sands' new beer.

index.php/fa/8122/0/

I don't drink (or encourage it), but those who do really like it.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: littlehat on March 15, 2008, 03:45:51 AM

Dear Chance,

To me, a 73 pre is tops.
In these pres, are all the original circuits stuck to, or are all the pres in these three models the same?

Sorry if this has been covered already.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Krubbadoo on March 15, 2008, 08:44:30 AM

Chance, are the 73,84 and 81 the same circuitry preamp-wise or do they differ like real Neves? I know that 1081's have a class AB output but 1073 and 1084 do have a Class A. Do you have an idea? Thanks.
Mart
Krubbadoo@hotmail.com

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on March 15, 2008, 02:57:10 PM

Krubbadoo wrote on Sat, 15 March 2008 05:44

I'll ask my tech who did the design/schematics. Personally, I don't know

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: littlehat on March 15, 2008, 09:15:27 PM

Thanks.

If they follow the originals model for model, I'll be down for 73s; if not, 81s.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: mr jason on March 16, 2008, 04:32:05 PM

Is the ACM1200 any different to the T-Bone SCT800 (a re-badged SE5500) tube mic, apart from the SCT800 being only Cardioid?
Cos I already have a matched pair of those. They're my goto mics for drum overheads. I put better tubes in (mesaboogie spax7, recommended on a forum by the SE's head engineer) and they sound great. I don't use close mics on the toms, and tend towards using just ONE SCT800 as a cymbal/tom mic. So it's the bulk of my sound, with a kick and snare mic added.

But yeah, just wanna know if the ACM1200 is basically the same as the SCT800 internally. Smile

I think I'm gonna be ordering a few 73s and a few mics at the very least.

Am currently attempting to raise the cash.

Would you be able to put an ordering deadline on the User Console by any chance?

I kicked myself for missing the last Group Buy, and would have to commit suicide if I missed this one too. Razz

Please help me make sure it doesn't come to that. Very Happy

hang loose,
Jason

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: mr jason on March 16, 2008, 05:02:38 PM

One more thing.

Did you ship any order to the UK last time Chance?
Just wondering what the postage will be..

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on March 16, 2008, 05:48:19 PM

mr jason wrote on Sun, 16 March 2008 14:02

One more thing.

Did you ship any order to the UK last time Chance?
Just wondering what the postage will be..

Yes many went to the UK and it was big bucks to ship. It makes me wonder why so many from other countries got in on this

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: mr jason on March 16, 2008, 06:03:56 PM

It's definately difficult working out whether the postage will be worth it.
On one hand, I'm excited about the pres and the mics, but yes, on the other hand, is it still worth it for the price including shipping from USA to UK...

I guess ideally it'd be great to have opinions from anyone that's heard the pres and mics (probably impossible at the moment), as to whether they think they're still worth, say, $300 (including postage to UK) rather than $200..
I'll be ordering more than one, so hopefully they can be posted together to lower the postage slightly.

It's wierd.
I'd almost RATHER order these at the inflated price (cos of postage) than get something else of equivalent cost, haha, simple because I love this forum, and would feel good about having the TNC stuff in my studio!

I know that's probably missing the point slightly, but I bet there's other people that feel the same.

So yeah, the hypothetical question (seeing as hardly anyone's heard them yet) is, are these pres worth $300ish?

Like I say, I shall probably order some anyway, haha. So I take any opinions with a grain of salt.
Thanks for your help Chance.
Jason

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on March 16, 2008, 06:28:16 PM

I'm in Australia and after adding postage, the mics worked out to about half of what they'd sell for locally.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Barkley McKay on March 16, 2008, 06:51:19 PM

I got the ACM-3 and the ACM-310

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: maxim on March 16, 2008, 08:30:01 PM

"It makes me wonder why so many from other countries got in on this"

do you think the dealers here don't carry the postage costs over to the customer (and then some)?

also, the american dollar is looking sweeter and sweeter by the day...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: mr jason on March 16, 2008, 08:39:03 PM

Thanks for that guys.

Yeah, I got a pair of cheap ribbons (Fathead type things) from a guy in the USA which worked out cheap regardless of postage, because of the exchange rate. Have bought numerous other studio stuff from the USA and Canada. I'l still waiting for a pair of Epicure speakers from Canada actually. They were posted just after Xmas, and still nothing..
That was via Surface Mail though (the cheapest postage), which takes ages at the best of times, so I've not given up hope yet. Surface Mail was stopped in the USA a while back though, so is not relevant here.

Getting back to the subject, I guess I was mainly concerned that the weight and size of the pres (rather than the mics) when packaged might push the postage up and make them a lot less of a bargain, and that maybe in that case there would be other alternatives in the UK that would cost a similar amount and be just as good.

But after seeing that the weight of the pres is 4.5kg, and allowing an extra 1kg for packaging, on the USPS site it looks like postage will be between

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on March 17, 2008, 11:35:16 AM

Hey Chance,

I'll post this publicly, in case there is information that all should see.

An engineer is in here in our studio from NYC working on a big project, and I told him about the Group Buy. He was excited, and has now signed up and ordered two of the 1200's.

He says he got a receipt, but never "had to pay" in any way.

He has Paypal ready, and wants to pay and thereby complete the order, but isn't sure if he should already have paid, or not.

What's the exact deal with that?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on March 17, 2008, 11:46:18 AM

Hey
buried in work (and the flu) Soon pay Pal requests will be sent out.
I am still waiting for the manufacturer to return from the Frankfort show so I can confirm everything before we commit.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Zetajazz44 on March 17, 2008, 12:47:56 PM

compasspnt wrote on Mon, 17 March 2008 10:35

Here is a link to "Musician's Workshop Group Buy Instructions" that I posted on another board: http://homerecording.com/bbs/showthread.php?t=260574

This will detail how to use the User Console to manage products...etc.

Also, there has been an addition added to the User Console that some of you might have seen if you logged in lately... There is a new button there, that is for the time being disabled, that is labeled: "View Invoice". As soon as Chance wants to start sending out invoices, this button will become ENABLED and you can view your invoice inside the User Console and pay there as well... through PayPal of course...

Thanks,

Randy
Zetajazz44

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on March 17, 2008, 01:06:35 PM

Randy check your PM's

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on March 18, 2008, 12:55:30 AM

I just signed up for a couple of pre-amps and mics. So how does it work? Does the price change depending on how many of each item gets ordered?
I signed up for a couple of 84s but I noticed that there were a lot more 73s being signed up for. So does that mean that the final prices might change?
Thanks so much for this Chance. Very cool bro.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on March 18, 2008, 09:04:33 AM

Sp far the two most popular units by far are the 73 preamp and the 1200 microphone.

index.php/fa/8155/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on March 18, 2008, 12:57:13 PM

CHANCE wrote on Sat, 15 March 2008 14:57

Krubbadoo wrote on Sat, 15 March 2008 05:44

I'll ask my tech who did the design/schematics. Personally, I don't know

Hi Chance,

Any word on the circuit design queries?

I am sure that you are swamped.

Thanks in advance!
-j

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on March 18, 2008, 01:19:45 PM

Sorry, been swamped and just getting over the flu. I sent my tech an E-mail some time ago, but in all honesty, I really haven't really pursued this like I want to.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on March 18, 2008, 04:14:27 PM

No rush here, Chance, take your time & get yourself healthy.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Nick Sevilla on March 18, 2008, 05:43:39 PM

noeqplease wrote on Tue, 11 March 2008 15:44

I'm in for two ribbon mics, one tube and one FET.

Thanks!!!

Today I added the ACM 1200. Looks like a good buy too.

I hope you get better soon, Chance.

Cheers

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on March 19, 2008, 07:26:16 AM

There is no price shown for the ACM-4.
Is it not available?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: yrdbrd on March 19, 2008, 02:47:18 PM

i'm pretty sure i read in this thread (can't seem to find it now)Chance has decided not to get the ACM-1 or the ACM-4 this time.
thats why there is no price on those mics.

Chance/anyone correct me if i am mistaken...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Steve Folta on March 21, 2008, 12:35:53 AM

yrdbrd wrote on Wed, 19 March 2008 11:47

I thought it meant that not enough microphones were ordered for them to manufacture that model. Hopefully Chance will drop by and give us the real meaning.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on March 21, 2008, 08:40:01 AM

That is true about dropping the ACM-1 and 4. The reason being little interest and you can get the same mic under a different brand name for close to the same price. For it to be worth while, there would have to be a 100 piece minimum Most of the interest lies in the newer designs that are not available from the rebadgers. Of course if you want 100 of them, that can be arranged.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: maxim on March 21, 2008, 07:23:17 PM

i suppose that means my acm-4 is already vintage...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on March 21, 2008, 08:35:47 PM

maxim wrote on Sat, 22 March 2008 10:23

i suppose that means my acm-4 is already vintage...

or so common there's no demand.....

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: littlehat on March 22, 2008, 12:42:10 AM

I really wanted a pair of the acm4
somebody pm me the rebadged version?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on March 24, 2008, 10:35:28 AM

In a way it's a shame, because the 4 is a nice mic.

We just used it as an overall drum kit mic, out in front about 4 feet, and it was great.

But numbers is numbers.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on March 24, 2008, 10:44:04 AM

Over the last five days I have been flooded with E-mail/PM's regarding the #4 dual ribbon mic. I guess I'll put it back up. Randy? (sorry)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Zetajazz44 on March 24, 2008, 11:19:55 AM

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 24 March 2008 09:44

Over the last five days I have been flooded with E-mail/PM's regarding the #4 dual ribbon mic. I guess I'll put it back up. Randy? (sorry)

I didn't take it off the site yet... It's still there... Currently, it has 18, which isn't last place, but rather 4th place...

The lowest numbers are:

5 - ACM-1
12 - ACM-70
16 - ACM-100
18 - ACM-4

Randy
Zetajazz44
Click Link Below to Register for The Musician's Workshop Group Buy
http://www.n344rb.com/MUSICIANSWORKSHOP/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on March 24, 2008, 11:47:21 AM

compasspnt wrote on Mon, 24 March 2008 07:35

In a way it's a shame, because the 4 is a nice mic.

We just used it as an overall drum kit mic, out in front about 4 feet, and it was great.

But numbers is numbers.

Interesting I too have used it, but as a room mic for drums only a little differently. I pointed the hotter side of the mic toward the LE side of the room with acceptical/good results.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: organica on March 24, 2008, 12:23:46 PM

When you get a price listed the #'s on the 4 will go up .......

What are those Norelco shavers modeled after ?

ACM4- Item Description
Type:Double 2 micron ribbon - Polar pattern:fig. 8 - Sensitivity:-53db(0db=1V/pa) - Frequency response:30 to 18,000 Hz - Impedance: <=200 ohms - Recommended load impedance:1,000 ohms - Max SPL (1% THD @ 1,000 Hz) 137db - Equivalent noise level to IEC 268-4 (A weighted) 17db - Comes with wood case, shock mount, available in white, black, and blue.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on March 24, 2008, 01:30:11 PM

groundhog day wrote on Mon, 24 March 2008 09:23

What are those Norelco shavers modeled after ?

They're modeled after the Schick (kidding, I really don't know)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on March 24, 2008, 03:34:37 PM

All of the mics are not modeled after something else.

Many of them are original designs, and some are very popular in other parts of the world.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cameron_k on March 25, 2008, 10:10:25 PM

I just expressed my interest in a 73 preamp. This takes the tally to 198. Two more!!! Two more!!!

edit: thanks very much Chance. This is most kind of you.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on March 25, 2008, 10:29:37 PM

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 24 March 2008 10:30

groundhog day wrote on Mon, 24 March 2008 09:23

What are those Norelco shavers modeled after ?

They're modeled after the Schick (kidding, I really don't know)

No,, not a Schick, a Remmington

index.php/fa/8269/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on March 26, 2008, 10:01:10 AM

Any after shave included?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on March 26, 2008, 12:55:45 PM

hey guys, can someone please help me? i'd really like to place an order, and have registered and received an email. i responded to this via email asking for pricing(i dont see any prices on the mics on the musicians workshop website), and how to place my order, but i havent received anything back yet. is it still possible? has the order already been placed?

i'd really love to get my order in before it goes out. thanks.

ps-thanks to chance for doing this, very nice!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on March 26, 2008, 01:00:02 PM

rjd2 wrote on Wed, 26 March 2008 09:55

If you registered, you should be able to view the prices

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on March 26, 2008, 01:09:40 PM

thanks for your reply chance. here is the email i received, is this proper?

Receipt for Group Buy Registration‏
From:    musicians.workshop@gte.net
Sent:    Sat 3/08/08 12:02 PM
To:    (email omitted)

Date: 3/8/2008
Time: 09:02
Group Buy: The Musicians Workshop - Group Buy 1
First Name: rj
Last Name: krohn
Main Forum: whatever works
Forum UserName: rjd2

if i go to http://www.the-musicians-workshop.com/ and click the "microphones" tab, i just see the mics and the specs of said mics. should i be seeing prices here? sorry for my ignorance, but im assuming something is wrong here, no?

and is the order form on the website, or something i should receive via email?

thanks again for all your help.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on March 26, 2008, 01:11:26 PM

have you tried the registration page after you log in?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on March 26, 2008, 01:14:29 PM

im sorry, i was looking for a login tab on your website, and cant find one. that must be my malfunction!

if i click the group buy registration tab, it looks like the same page i used to register in the first place.

where is the login tab? (sorry, you would think id be net-savvy enough to have found this by now)

EDIT-NEVER MIND, FOUND IT. SORRY!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on March 26, 2008, 01:16:56 PM

Randy (tech-guru) will help in a few

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Zetajazz44 on March 26, 2008, 01:48:13 PM

It looks like you found it... but just in case you didn't, you have to log into the User Console to be able to view the prices for the products...

http://www.n344rb.com/MUSICIANSWORKSHOP/UserConsole/

Click the link above and use the login credentials described in the registration email that you were sent when you registered.

Randy
Zetajazz44

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on March 26, 2008, 02:57:22 PM

OK, I'm down for one of the 73s! w00t!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigbone on March 26, 2008, 02:59:36 PM

I know we are shooting in the dark like Terry said, but maybe someone can help me here,if a want some maybe ''darker '' mic for OH'S or drum room..''a la 47 ''

i know get a 47 if you want that tone.........but if i want THAT kind of a vibe, will i be better with the 1200 or the 6802.......what do you think....

Thank you.

Jean

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on March 26, 2008, 03:18:03 PM

In all honesty, I don't think you will get a 47 sound with either.

If it were me though, I would get the 1200's, and consider an Oliver transformer or other mod.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on March 26, 2008, 03:21:14 PM

If it were me, I too would get the 1200.

Oh wait... it is me, and I am. Smile

Although I am still unclear as to whether or not I will soon be trying to find shockmounts that can be made to fit or not.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigbone on March 26, 2008, 03:24:58 PM

Cool , i will get the 1200 , and try to mod them later (mario can you hear me now hehehehe ).............P

Do the 1200 come with some kind of attachment or shockmout,,,,,,or should
i use some gaffer tape....hehehehe

Thank's again for you help

Jean

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on March 26, 2008, 04:43:53 PM

I put in a PM to Chance about the ACM-3 and ACM-4... but I'm very impatient! Laughing

These two mics have similar qualities on paper... what's the dealie-yo? Anybody have them?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on March 26, 2008, 07:35:01 PM

J-Texas wrote on Wed, 26 March 2008 13:43

I put in a PM to Chance about the ACM-3 and ACM-4... but I'm very impatient! Laughing

These two mics have similar qualities on paper... what's the dealie-yo? Anybody have them?

I just sent you a PM

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: littlehat on March 26, 2008, 08:12:35 PM

chance, we ever get any reply on preamp topology/correctness?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: organica on March 26, 2008, 08:45:18 PM

Here's a nice ACM3 story .........

I tried one today for some acoustic guitar parts , ( over dubs , full band sounding stuff ) , great guitarist playing his Taylor six string that gets recorded a lot .

It blew us both away .....really worked well for this . He said that it's the best mic he'd ever heard with that guitar which is quite a endorsement coming from this guy . ( often plays on Prairie Home Companion / loads of sessions / records ) . He wants one now .
"
I asked later if he'd play a little something so that I could record the ACM3 "in the raw " so to speak . Here's an mp3 of what I sampled ... http://organicarecording.com/acm3.htm
guitar <mic < TASCAM FW1884<DP 5.12

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on March 26, 2008, 09:17:05 PM

groundhog day wrote on Wed, 26 March 2008 19:45

It doesn't hurt having a good guitar and someone who can play! Laughing

Did you have that one facing forward. It has a solid low end. I've hear of people turning the 121 around to the back side of the fig 8 for acoustic.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: organica on March 26, 2008, 09:39:18 PM

yeah , basically facing forward .....

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: nob turner on March 26, 2008, 11:18:41 PM

so we all know that ribbon mics need their ribbons replaced eventually... especially when used in front of loud sound sources, like guitar amps and drums. should these be sent back to china at that point?...

oh, wait, given the price, maybe a better name for these would be Disposa-Mic! "Use it once, throw it away!!"

sorry, couldn't resist...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on March 26, 2008, 11:51:43 PM

For clarification...

To Register for the Group Buy, go to

http://www.n344rb.com/MUSICIANSWORKSHOP/

Once you've registered, administer your account by going to

http://www.n344rb.com/MUSICIANSWORKSHOP/UserConsole/

To view the Microphones go to

http://web.mac.com/chancepataki/iWeb/Site/MICROPHONES.html

To view the Preamps go to

http://web.mac.com/chancepataki/iWeb/Site/MIC%20PREAMPS.html

To see how much of what is ordered in the Group Buy, go to

http://www.n344rb.com/MUSICIANSWORKSHOP/QuantityByProduct.as p

index.php/fa/8279/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Zetajazz44 on March 27, 2008, 12:03:37 AM

groundhog day wrote on Wed, 26 March 2008 19:45

Since groundhog day posted a sample of an acoustic guitar, I thought I'd post this, my experience of an ACM-3 on guitar cab. I posted this on another board a few days back, so I'm just copy/pasting from there...

I didn't get in on the last group buy so I didn't get this mic from there. A guy on this board, who did get this mic in the last group buy, didn't want it anymore due to the sagging ribbon, and said that if anyone would pay shipping on it, he'd send it to them... I took him up on this offer and he graciously sent it to me...

I only did this sound sample to make sure the microphone actually worked after I retensioned the ribbon it myself. I didn't use any special tools to do it, just "eye-balled" it...

Again, this is a one-take recording, originally only meant for myself to hear the mic, but thought I'd post it here as well...

I played a stock groove from a Roland G-1000 and had a friend play his guitar along, while I miced the amp...it was that simple... No plugin effects...etc. What you hear is what was recorded.

Here was my setup:

Roland G-1000: Direct --> Mackie 32:8 --> Alesis ADAT --> Lightpipe out --> Digi001

Guitar: John Mayer Edition Stratocaster --> Vintage Fender Twin Reverb Amp --> ACM-3 Microphone --> Mackie 32:8 --> Alesis ADAT --> Lightpipe out --> Digi001

Again, this is a "rough" recording, one-taker, no edits, only improvising around a chord pattern... Even at one point, about 20 seconds into the sample, you can hear talking in the background... Someone asking me, "Who did you play the fiddle with tonight...", as I'm a fiddler and had just came in from a gig...

At any rate, here it is: TnC ACM-3 Microphone Sample on Guitar Cab: http://www.n344rb.com/MP3/ACM3_sample.mp3

All-in-all, I was happy with the sound of the microphone tonight... It was definately worth the cost of shipping to me! Thanks again to the guy who sent it, you know who you are...

Randy
Zetajazz44

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: maccool on March 27, 2008, 10:25:38 AM

I can log in to the User Console no problem, but I cannot edit anything nor Add Product, which is what I want to do.

Is this just me?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: tom eaton on March 27, 2008, 10:40:02 AM

Same here, since the redesigned user panel. None of the buttons work at all.

-tom

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on March 27, 2008, 10:44:41 AM

I'm sure Randy will look into that. This is all an almost experimental work in progress, after all.

Randy has done great things with this in a short time!

Stand by.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigbone on March 27, 2008, 10:57:39 AM

tom eaton wrote on Thu, 27 March 2008 10:40

Same here, since the redesigned user panel. None of the buttons work at all.

-tom

All is working great in here, i can log in......but again i'm on a MAC.......
Very Happy

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Zetajazz44 on March 27, 2008, 11:37:08 AM

tom eaton wrote on Thu, 27 March 2008 09:40

Same here, since the redesigned user panel. None of the buttons work at all.
-tom

maccool wrote on Thu, 27 March 2008 09:40

I can log in to the User Console no problem, but I cannot edit anything nor Add Product, which is what I want to do.

Is this just me?

Humm.. Not sure about this one... This is the first complaints I've had about this particular problem...

What browser are you using?

Do you have a popup blocker running?

When you click on the buttons, and they don't work, look to the left corner of your browser and see if you see any errors displayed.

All of the buttons, including the buttons on the login page, work with the same code base... So I'm kinda puzzled that if you can log in using those new button, why they aren't working once you log in...

Thanks in advance,

Randy
Zetajazz44

http://www.n344rb.com/MUSICIANSWORKSHOP/TnCLogo_WhiteMatte_BlueHalo.gif

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: fiasco ( P.M.DuMont ) on March 27, 2008, 12:08:45 PM

Correct, button presses (edit,add) are logging errors in both Firefox and Explorer.
View invoice button displays "function disabled" pop up window. Working.
View all news working.
Disabling pop up block has no effect.

I'm almost positive all was well yesterday or the day before.

Sincere thanks to Chance and Randy!

Title: IMPORTANT!!!
Post by: Zetajazz44 on March 27, 2008, 12:36:18 PM

Fiasco wrote on Thu, 27 March 2008 11:08

Yes, there was a bug... A user on another board just pointed it out to me and I've fixed it... Anyone that was having this issue, please log back into the User Console and it should work for you now.

Sorry for any confusing this may have caused...but when you're building a system on the fly and making updates to a live environment, you'll get bugs from time to time.

Thanks for your patience working through this.

Randy
Zetajazz44

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zunrize on March 27, 2008, 12:39:22 PM

Hate to be a whiner, but anyone else bummed that the pre's are gonna be white? I know it was discussed earlier, and someone requested pink, but come on, white?? It seems very cheap looking to me, and like bad 70's consumer gear. Almost all of my gear is black, and I like it that way. Having no items in white and then having 2 bright white preamps? ...maybe I need my coffee, but I'm thinking I'm gonna have to have someone paint them.
I'd bet that if you put out a vote to the prospective buyers it would be 85% black, 10% white and 5% some other color.

Title: Re: IMPORTANT!!!
Post by: fiasco ( P.M.DuMont ) on March 27, 2008, 12:48:48 PM

Zetajazz44 wrote on Thu, 27 March 2008 12:36

Fiasco wrote on Thu, 27 March 2008 11:08

You are doing a fine job friend, no worries.

Title: Re: IMPORTANT!!!
Post by: Devin Knutson on March 27, 2008, 01:00:12 PM

Zetajazz44 wrote on Thu, 27 March 2008 09:36

Sorry for any confusing this may have caused...but when you're building a system on the fly and making updates to a live environment, you'll get bugs from time to time.

Thanks for your patience working through this.

d00d... I'm a developer as well, and this kind of stuff just happens when you're doing guerilla web development.

I think the site is kickin butt. I really like that the mass mails now appear as news at the top.

Slick.

Thanks bunches for all your effort. I suspect that it's really making this process a lot smoother than it would otherwise have been.

Title: Re: IMPORTANT!!!
Post by: Zetajazz44 on March 27, 2008, 01:14:31 PM

Devin Knutson wrote on Thu, 27 March 2008 12:00

Zetajazz44 wrote on Thu, 27 March 2008 09:36

Thanks man!

Yeah, as you know, typically, you have a development environment, which usually is your local machine... You develop there, then move the code into a staging area on another machine to be pounded by the QA department... When all the bugs are gone, it then gets moved into production...

Well, none of that is happening here.. I'm the developer, QA and production guy all in one! Laughing

And to compound things a bit, I'm using a 'primitive' development code: "Classic ASP/VB Script", since the server that I'm hosting this on doesn't support ASP.NET DLL's... Oh well, I love to write ASP and can do so with my eyes shut...

I'm having a ball doing this too!

Thanks for everyone's support...together we can make this system the best it can be.

Thanks again,

Randy
Zetajazz44

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on March 27, 2008, 01:27:46 PM

Hmm.
The colour is not set in stone. The face plates are brushed aluminum. They seem only to have anodised blue which looks too much like the old MXR gear. The choices are clear (brushed aluminum), MXR blue, or a painted colour. My thoughts were a signature colour, but I really don't care (except for pink) My thoughts are contrast (lettering/back colour for easy referencing of settings) and a white BG with black CG would be easy on the eyes. True they will be like a piece of furnature in the CR, but they will also be tools. My Makita grinder is blue (not pink) and my hammer, screw drivers doesn't matter. the lathe, drill press, and bridgeport are industrial grey (not pink LOL)
Whateverworks (?) for the majority will work for me, but I want to get things going ASAP

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on March 27, 2008, 01:31:12 PM

I still do tons of work in "classic" ASP. It's just faster and cleaner for many things.

If you need some help (or just another pair of eyeballs), do please let me know. I'd be more than glad to help out any way I can.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Zetajazz44 on March 27, 2008, 01:37:57 PM

Devin Knutson wrote on Thu, 27 March 2008 12:31

Thanks man!

Right now it's mostly maintenance... BUT, I'll let you know should any thing come up and I need your help..

Thanks much for the offer!!!!

Randy
Zetajazz44

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on March 27, 2008, 01:43:13 PM

CHANCE wrote on Thu, 27 March 2008 12:27

They seem only to have anodised blue...

For $200 it could be Smurf blue!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: maccool on March 27, 2008, 01:58:06 PM

Thanks Randy, all works fine now.

And Chance, White is alright, it's what I hoped for! Good enough for Lucas, good enough for me.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on March 27, 2008, 02:15:27 PM

CHANCE wrote on Thu, 27 March 2008 13:27

Hey,
White obviously isn't black. Sorry just had to point that out. But who cares. I don't care too much about the outside as long as they appropriately color the signal going through it. Smile

BUT. The inovonics stuff is white. Certainly the 201. I've also got a couple inovinics AM radio multi-band broadcast limiters that are white (off white anyway). I'm guessing that their product line is white.

Nothing wrong with white IMHO.

Something is wrong with pink though. Just to be very clear. I hope the group concurs on that sentiment

Cheers,
j

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on March 27, 2008, 02:35:41 PM

I don't care. (except for pink) Is there an organized way to find a colour that suites the majority?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on March 27, 2008, 02:38:44 PM

Dude, it's your puppy... let's put it to bed. I want to USE the darn thing ASAP! Surprised

edit: (addition) "You can't please all the people all the time... "

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Zetajazz44 on March 27, 2008, 02:41:11 PM

J-Texas wrote on Thu, 27 March 2008 13:38

Dude, it's your puppy... let's put it to bed. I want to USE the darn thing ASAP! Surprised

edit: (addition) "You can't please all the people all the time... "

Being from North Carolina, we eat, sleep and breathe, NASCAR racing... While watching a race someone will see a car on the track with an ugly paint scheme and say, "I wouldn't drive that thing if they paid me!"... Well, my response always and still is: "I wouldn't care if they painted it pink, put Playtex Tampon decals down the sides and made me drag a big cotton rope from the rear bumper, I'd drive it for FREE!"

Same with these preamps... If they sound as good as I think they will, I don't care if they are pink with brown polka dots and yellow knobs!

Randy
Zetajazz44

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zunrize on March 27, 2008, 02:48:23 PM

sorry gents, I feel much better after some coffee. Actually I'd prefer the aluminum/black lettering industrial look, but that's just me. If the consensus is white, I won't slow the train. As others have said, if it colors the sound....

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: pete andrews on March 27, 2008, 03:11:50 PM

well that's it.
i'm out of this group buy on account of the strong anti-pink agenda.

-pete

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Barkley McKay on March 27, 2008, 03:38:48 PM

White with black lettering. Simple and classy.

Brushed aluminium is a little too Behr***er or Focusrite Platinum series for me.

Barkley

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: GrahameD on March 27, 2008, 04:01:28 PM

Barkley McKay wrote on Thu, 27 March 2008 15:38

White with black lettering. Simple and classy.

Brushed aluminium is a little too Behr***er or Focusrite Platinum series for me.

Barkley

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Rod Affleck on March 27, 2008, 04:07:13 PM

If there a version with a yellow face and black helvetica labels, that would be great. Or at least it would be great for those of us in Canada who grew up on no-name products in the early 80's:

index.php/fa/8301/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: garret on March 27, 2008, 04:19:42 PM

Interesting they spent money on yellow cardstock...

I grew up on generics in the US, and they were black type on white card stock...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on March 27, 2008, 04:35:56 PM

GrahameD wrote on Thu, 27 March 2008 15:01

Barkley McKay wrote on Thu, 27 March 2008 15:38

White with black lettering. Simple and classy.

Brushed aluminium is a little too Behr***er or Focusrite Platinum series for me.

Barkley

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on March 27, 2008, 04:44:04 PM

Zetajazz44 wrote on Thu, 27 March 2008 13:41

J-Texas wrote on Thu, 27 March 2008 13:38

Dude, it's your puppy... let's put it to bed. I want to USE the darn thing ASAP! Surprised

edit: (addition) "You can't please all the people all the time... "

10-4! Get 'er dun!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TB-AV on March 27, 2008, 04:45:29 PM

White works for me.

Call them the "China White" series.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on March 27, 2008, 04:58:46 PM

Whites fine. Maybe instead of black lettering a dark blue lettering or something might spiff them up with a bit of class.

I just went "what the hell" and ordered a bunch more of the mics. Mostly ribbons.
I have already a couple of ribbons that are probably rebranded acm 1s. They tend to sound a little dark to me and I was wondering if the other ribbons are likely to sound much different, having possibly lighter ribbons in them. I was also wondering about them surviving the shipping etc. ?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: fiasco ( P.M.DuMont ) on March 27, 2008, 05:19:58 PM

garret wrote on Thu, 27 March 2008 16:19

I grew up on generics in the US, and they were black type on white card stock...

I hear ya.

index.php/fa/8302/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: E Merrill on March 27, 2008, 05:42:56 PM

Please, stop the madness!

We went through the color debate once.

They are white. Let's not introduce needless complication at this point.

Eric

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigbone on March 27, 2008, 06:04:38 PM

Eric Merrill wrote on Thu, 27 March 2008 17:42

Please, stop the madness!

We went through the color debate once.

They are white. Let's not introduce needless complication at this point.

Eric

+1.......... at these prices, plus all the trouble that chance has got into it......print
the pres and that it's......enjoy the tone not the color.....

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on March 27, 2008, 06:22:01 PM

I'm sorely tempted to vote for pink here. Just to make trouble. Twisted Evil

Really, though...I could give a crap what color it is. I wanna hear it, not stare at it.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigbone on March 27, 2008, 07:08:22 PM

willowhaus wrote on Thu, 27 March 2008 18:22

I'm sorely tempted to vote for pink here. Just to make trouble. Twisted Evil

Really, though...I could give a crap what color it is. I wanna hear it, not stare at it.

Exacly...... Very Happy

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on March 27, 2008, 07:41:49 PM

willowhaus wrote on Thu, 27 March 2008 18:22

I'm sorely tempted to vote for pink here. Just to make trouble. Twisted Evil

Really, though...I could give a crap what color it is. I wanna hear it, not stare at it.

C'mon now... You know you really want the sandblasted titanium. It might be a little hard to match in different production runs and it gives a greenish glow from a certain angle... Wink

It does have a nice texture though.

Cheers,
j

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: forgotteng on March 27, 2008, 09:47:59 PM

White is allright!! Bring it on

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zunrize on March 27, 2008, 11:51:32 PM

Ooo, yellow with the helvetica font, now your talking!. Brings back memories of the old Electrodyne consoles. Just check out that aqua baby blue! I used to have a strat that had that same finish. Can you imagine a whole console in some of these colors??

index.php/fa/8309/0/

Makes me wanna go have a drink at the Regal Beagle.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: MI on March 28, 2008, 12:08:29 AM

bigbone wrote on Wed, 26 March 2008 15:24

The soldering iron is ready as well as my secret stash of Telefunken, Siemens and Philips tubes my Uncle gave me on my last trip to Italy.

Too bad I didn't have room for that case of VF14's he had laying around... oh well next year Wink

!

MI

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigbone on March 28, 2008, 12:15:29 AM

Mario I. wrote on Fri, 28 March 2008 00:08

bigbone wrote on Wed, 26 March 2008 15:24

!

MI

Wowowow i'm drooling already.....can't wait to mod those mic my friend.....

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: mr jason on March 28, 2008, 07:54:22 AM

Sorry if this has already been asked.
Now that the 73 Pre has over 200 orders, will the price come down?
I'm asking this in reference to Chance's earlier rough prices, when I THINK he said that if over 200 were ordered the price would come down to $160??
That's from memory though, and my memory isn't wonderful.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on March 28, 2008, 08:55:25 AM

On the last mass-mail, I recieved about 10 "failed delivery" notices. Perhaps spam blocker? I didn't get these with my E-mail mass-mail.

About the colour,, it will be a surprise. It's too much to try to please everyone.

I plan to start sending payment requests next week. Once payment is recieved from everyone, registration will be closed as I will request the invoice and we will be on our way.
Edit/Delete Message

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on March 28, 2008, 08:59:54 AM

Hooray !
I cant wait.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Tom L on March 28, 2008, 09:34:06 AM

Eric Merrill wrote on Thu, 27 March 2008 13:42

Please, stop the madness!

We went through the color debate once.

They are white. Let's not introduce needless complication at this point.

Eric

+2

Take the Henry Ford stance

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on March 28, 2008, 10:02:16 AM

mr jason wrote on Fri, 28 March 2008 04:54

If I recall correctly, at 200 units for the 73 the price will be $25 less than the 100 unit price point. ***OR*** if ALL pres pass 100 units the price for ALL of them will be $25 less than the 100 individual price point. It seems unlikely that all the pres will pass 100 units, so logic would seem to suggest it will only be the 73 (being that it has passed 200 units by a margin) that will be $25 less.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: littlehat on March 28, 2008, 11:06:52 AM

I'm not being intentionally ignored am I?

Any answer on the 73/81/84 circuits?

Are the preamps identical between these units?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on March 28, 2008, 12:04:50 PM

littlehat wrote on Fri, 28 March 2008 08:06

I'm not being intentionally ignored am I?

Any answer on the 73/81/84 circuits?

Are the preamps identical between these units?

Sorry about that. I thought this was answered already. The 73, 81, and 84 are modeled after the original 73, 81, and 84. I did not do the design, but if you search the originals, you should find the info you are looking for.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: littlehat on March 28, 2008, 12:17:53 PM

Thanks.

Also, black text on white is fine with me.
Because it's easy to read.

I'm pretty sick of black faceplates, and brushed metal also.

What I hate is squinting, leaning or otherwise having to meet a piece of gear half way. The Chandler/1073 is a good case in point.
Sounds great, hard to read.

The Canadian generic look is pretty cool too.

I also can't be offended by color choice if they sound really good though.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: retractablezing on March 28, 2008, 12:56:35 PM

cheers everyone.

i've just registrated for this group buy, hopefully i can still make it.

anyway, just wanted to point out that there are a lot of worst things (colors) i can think of for the preamp than a mxr/orban blue. i'm quite fond of that color actually, and wouldn't mind it one bit.

i actually think it gives the gear sort of an underdog feel. i always love when something completely unassuming ends up blowing everyone's mind, so the mxr/orban look on a totally killer pre would work wonders for me.

i find the white choice totally unacceptable though, hopefully i'm not alone on this!

anyway, just my opinion.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on March 28, 2008, 12:59:55 PM

littlehat wrote on Fri, 28 March 2008 09:17

What I hate is squinting, leaning or otherwise having to meet a piece of gear half way.

LOL It's SO good to hear someone reading my thoughts. LOL

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on March 28, 2008, 01:07:00 PM

I say paint them with the new top secret military invisible paint. Make it look like the connectors are just hanging there in space.

Or, failing that... mustard yellow with bright green lettering so that no one will be able to actually focus their eyes on the unit for more than a tenth of a second, thus ensuring our secret.

"dude, I don't know what pre he used, but it sounded awesome!"

Of course the reality is that I wouldn't really care if they were green with purple polkadots.

<sigh>

I so want a pair of the 73's but just can't do it right now... I'm already having to do a bit of juggling to get the mics as it is, and I need them much more at the moment.

Somebody buy an extra pair and sell them to me in a month or so...? Smile

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: littlehat on March 28, 2008, 03:01:28 PM

CHANCE wrote on Fri, 28 March 2008 12:59

littlehat wrote on Fri, 28 March 2008 09:17

What I hate is squinting, leaning or otherwise having to meet a piece of gear half way.

LOL It's SO good to hear someone reading my thoughts. LOL

Well read this...

I'm going to nominate you for mayor of the PSW!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on March 28, 2008, 03:42:21 PM

This is probably why you don't get a say-so in any other piece of gear you buy. Opinions ae like assholes, we've all got 'em!

How many of you griping about the color have turned down a piece of good gear because of the color.

This is really rediculous. Anyway, it's been said that it will be a surprise. If these guys haven't worked hard enough, they have to put up with this stuff.

Let's get the gear. Paint it yourself.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: retractablezing on March 28, 2008, 03:53:27 PM

sorry, didn't mean to stir anything. if the color is not settled yet, and if there's still a decision to be made about it, i just think the original blue is preferable to white.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigbone on March 28, 2008, 04:20:14 PM

retractablezing wrote on Fri, 28 March 2008 15:53

sorry, didn't mean to stir anything. if the color is not settled yet, and if there's still a decision to be made about it, i just think the original blue is preferable to white.

PLEASE scoll back a few page........
Rolling Eyes

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on March 28, 2008, 04:33:20 PM

retractablezing wrote on Fri, 28 March 2008 14:53

sorry, didn't mean to stir anything. if the color is not settled yet, and if there's still a decision to be made about it, i just think the original blue is preferable to white.

First of all man, it's not just you.

Secondly, I have a big mouth and am airing my irritation, venting my frustration... revealing my impatience! Twisted Evil

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: maxim on March 28, 2008, 07:54:24 PM

i vote for keeping that particular cost down

there is beauty in the bauhaus approach...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: retractablezing on March 29, 2008, 01:54:32 PM

just dropped out of the pre and will be getting 3 mics instead, hope that's not a problem. would be ace if one could score that RCA 77 looking one that was on in the first group buy...

anyone wants to get rid of theirs?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: retractablezing on March 29, 2008, 06:33:13 PM

i did my best to read most of the homerecording thread as well as this one, so hopefully folks won't mind me asking some questions to which i didn't really find an answer for..

1. what happened to the optical comp plans?

2. what happened to the dual preamp plans?

3. is the the ACM-4 being included after all?

4. if so, at what stage will we be able to decide between the 3 colours available (for the ACM-4)?

5. what's the time frame to be expected between sending the money and getting the gear?

6. is there a set start date by now?

thanks in advance for any replies.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: itsapleasure on March 29, 2008, 06:47:14 PM

I'm trying to keep on top of this stuff as well. I may order more ribbons if I can get some sort of idea of what they're like.

is there any sort of 'reviews' page that I'm missing?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on March 29, 2008, 06:59:11 PM

Quote:

1. what happened to the optical comp plans?

2. what happened to the dual preamp plans?

3. is the the ACM-4 being included after all?

4. if so, at what stage will we be able to decide between the 3 colours available (for the ACM-4)?

5. what's the time frame to be expected between sending the money and getting the gear?

6. is there a set start date by now?

There can only be so many products for now, and especially newly designed ones! There MAY be comps in future, but everything in future is speculative for now, especially as it might relate to a Group Buy.

For now, if you want a dual preamp, just buy two...

The ACM-4 is trying to be included, if there are enough of them pre-ordered.

Chance can say more about the time frame and start date.

Quote:

I'm trying to keep on top of this stuff as well. I may order more ribbons if I can get some sort of idea of what they're like.

is there any sort of 'reviews' page that I'm missing?

There is no review page, just a few scattered comments on various threads.

You are (esp at this price!) experimenting here. I like them for some things, but that's all there is time to say right now.

Thanks guys.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: retractablezing on March 29, 2008, 07:07:12 PM

thanks for the info.

for the record, i'dd love to see something like a dual transformer coupled valve pre, especially tailored to sound like some of the 50s and 60s classics, with at least 70dbs, on the next group buy.

i think there would be quite a demand for something like that.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on March 30, 2008, 07:25:22 PM

retractablezing wrote on Sat, 29 March 2008 16:07

Oh no,,, here we go again. LOL

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: retractablezing on March 31, 2008, 05:07:03 AM

CHANCE wrote on Sun, 30 March 2008 18:25

retractablezing wrote on Sat, 29 March 2008 16:07

Oh no,,, here we go again. LOL

hehe..too ambitious?

(tell me you wouldn't like that mate Wink

)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on April 01, 2008, 07:30:44 AM

Do we have a rough price on the ACM-4?

Totally off the wall speculation.....
Should we be looking for future TNC products based on the Lucas designs?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on April 01, 2008, 08:34:54 AM

Bill Urick wrote on Tue, 01 April 2008 04:30

Do we have a rough price on the ACM-4?

Totally off the wall speculation.....
Should we be looking for future TNC products based on the Lucas designs?

The price on the ACM-4 is the same as it was before. I believe it was in one of the mass-mails.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on April 01, 2008, 08:39:46 AM

Bill Urick wrote on Tue, 01 April 2008 04:30

Should we be looking for future TNC products based on the Lucas designs?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cameron_k on April 02, 2008, 01:32:17 AM

Just a heads-up people - the group buy is being discussed on Gearslutz.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on April 02, 2008, 08:19:53 AM

cameron_k wrote on Tue, 01 April 2008 22:32

Just a heads-up people - the group buy is being discussed on Gearslutz.

It is? I thought Jules locked it.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigbone on April 02, 2008, 04:18:18 PM

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 02 April 2008 08:19

cameron_k wrote on Tue, 01 April 2008 22:32

Just a heads-up people - the group buy is being discussed on Gearslutz.

It is? I thought Jules locked it.

any way to get some samples of the pres? from prototypes you have?

and an A/B against other clones or real neves?

That's the kind of question they ask....only in gearslutz....they will never learn.... Rolling Eyes

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on April 02, 2008, 04:30:02 PM

Hey Jean.

I have not even heard the pre's as yet, but Chance has. And he has had them checked out by some pretty big time studio guys in LA, with positive comments so far.

But again, everyone remember that we are somewhat experimenting and "shooting in the dark" just a bit here.

Maybe Chance has some comparison files, or at least can talk a bit more about the comparisons already made in LA.

I THINK we will all be pleasantly surprised, because the designs seem solid...and having seen a photo of the insides, I am impressed...but even if they are just "OK," at this price it's worth the time and effort. If they are great, it's a steal!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigbone on April 02, 2008, 07:00:00 PM

Hey Terry

Just to be on the same note i didn't ask:

''any way to get some samples of the pres? from prototypes you have?

and an A/B against other clones or real neves? ''

Thoses are questions that was ask on gearslutz about the pre's .....i know we are shooting in the dark and hope for the best....

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cameron_k on April 02, 2008, 07:36:47 PM

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 02 April 2008 22:19

cameron_k wrote on Tue, 01 April 2008 22:32

Just a heads-up people - the group buy is being discussed on Gearslutz.

It is? I thought Jules locked it.

Sorry - damn time zone differential. http://www.gearslutz.com/board/low-end-theory/187097-acmp-73 -neve-73-clone.html

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on April 02, 2008, 09:07:30 PM

cameron_k wrote on Wed, 02 April 2008 16:36

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 02 April 2008 22:19

cameron_k wrote on Tue, 01 April 2008 22:32

Just a heads-up people - the group buy is being discussed on Gearslutz.

It is? I thought Jules locked it.

Sorry - damn time zone differential. http://www.gearslutz.com/board/low-end-theory/187097-acmp-73 -neve-73-clone.html

Yes I found it, introduced myself, and shared some history/info

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: littlehat on April 02, 2008, 11:06:37 PM

By the way chance, on the mic page...
using firefox, the acm2, acm4, and acm100 don't show any info
they do however with explorer

should have mentioned this a month ago (sorry)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Zetajazz44 on April 03, 2008, 12:07:12 AM

littlehat wrote on Wed, 02 April 2008 22:06

By the way chance, on the mic page...
using firefox, the acm2, acm4, and acm100 don't show any info
they do however with explorer

should have mentioned this a month ago (sorry)

Thanks for the heads-up... I'll check it out.

Randy
Zetajazz44
Click HERE to Register for the Musican's Workshop Group Buy
Click HERE to See Another One of My Hobbies

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: organica on April 03, 2008, 12:53:59 AM

I've got another ACM-3 tale to tell ......

Yesterday , I was going for this 2 part trumpet vibe , that I hoped would sound like Johnny Cash - Ring of Fire 1963 meets authentic southwestern Americana Mariachi music from the Chihuahuan Desert somewhere .......

ACM-3 worked splendidly for this .

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Barkley McKay on April 03, 2008, 06:54:28 AM

ditto,

Tracked a flugel horn in the studio recently, and trombone on a live gig last friday. Works splendidly. Excellent of axis rejection as expected and the room gets picked up ever so discretely from the other side. Get that right and it has plenty of livliness.

Barkley

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on April 03, 2008, 08:40:19 AM

You guys that are recording horns I HATE YOU!! LOL
I love horns and it's been a long time since I've had the opportunity to track some.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on April 03, 2008, 08:46:35 AM

bigbone wrote on Wed, 02 April 2008 16:00

Hey Terry

Just to be on the same note i didn't ask:

''any way to get some samples of the pres? from prototypes you have?

and an A/B against other clones or real neves? ''

You know we only had a day to check out these pres. We were so happy with them and caught up in the moment. It wasn't until AFTER we returned them that we thought of things we should of, could of, and would of done.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Zetajazz44 on April 03, 2008, 09:05:09 AM

littlehat wrote on Wed, 02 April 2008 22:06

By the way chance, on the mic page...
using firefox, the acm2, acm4, and acm100 don't show any info
they do however with explorer

should have mentioned this a month ago (sorry)

I checked this out and it works in my FireFox browser... I'm using version 2.0.0.12.

Below is a screen shot of what is displaying in my FireFox for the ACM-2...of course I've removed the item price for obvious reasons... The other items that you mentioned having troubles viewing are working just like this one...

Is anyone else experiencing this issue that littehat is having?

http://www.n344rb.com/MUSICIANSWORKSHOP/ItemDetailSS1.gif

Randy
Zetajazz44
Click HERE to Register for the Musican's Workshop Group Buy
Click HERE to See Another One of My Hobbies

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigbone on April 03, 2008, 09:58:17 AM

CHANCE wrote on Thu, 03 April 2008 08:46

bigbone wrote on Wed, 02 April 2008 16:00

Hey Terry

Just to be on the same note i didn't ask:

''any way to get some samples of the pres? from prototypes you have?

and an A/B against other clones or real neves? ''

Chance

i'm not worry, worst scenario i will resell thoses pre's on e-bay for 3X the $$$
with a quoite ''Terry Manning love these''........hehehehehhe
Twisted Evil

Terry Just kidding i will not do that don't worry..don't send the lawyer..:PPP

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TB-AV on April 03, 2008, 10:10:28 AM

Randy, I can see all the graphics pop-up just as you have posted.

XP/Firefox 2.0.0.13

TB

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on April 03, 2008, 11:02:00 AM

Mic pics worked fine for me too, running FF 2.0.0.13 on Vista Business Ed.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: littlehat on April 03, 2008, 11:03:21 AM

I've never even seen the page your screenshot is of.
Gimme a link.
The one that displays oddly to me is on chances site when you click Microphones.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on April 03, 2008, 11:13:11 AM

compasspnt wrote on Wed, 02 April 2008 16:30

...having seen a photo of the insides, I am impressed...

I'd love to know what the insides look like... so far my requests for technical information have gone unheeded....

Meanwhile, over at gearslutz speculation abounds....(as usual).

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Zetajazz44 on April 03, 2008, 12:21:46 PM

littlehat wrote on Thu, 03 April 2008 10:03

I've never even seen the page your screenshot is of.
Gimme a link.
The one that displays oddly to me is on chances site when you click Microphones.

Oh, I see... You are having a problem with Chance's website at: http://www.the-musicians-workshop.com ... Not with the Group Buy Registration page or User Console.

In order to view the page of the screen shot that I posted, you must go to the Group Buy Registration page at: http://www.n344rb.com/MUSICIANSWORKSHOP/ , choose the group buy from the dropdown box: "The Musicians Workshop - Group Buy 1". After doing this all the items for the group buy will appear... There is a little magnifying glass icon

http://www.n344rb.com/MUSICIANSWORKSHOP/images/ViewDetails.gif

next to each item. Clicking on this icon will give you the screen shot that I posted.

Also, if you have already registered for the group buy, you can log into the User Console, go to "Add Products" and you will see the same icon

and you can click there as well... Only inside the User Console, AFTER you have registered, will you be able to view prices.

Randy
Zetajazz44
Click HERE to Register for the Musician's Workshop Group Buy
Click HERE to See Another One of My Hobbies

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: littlehat on April 03, 2008, 12:36:34 PM

I've been registered and all ordered up for a while...

Just never clicked the fancy magnifier!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Zetajazz44 on April 03, 2008, 02:15:38 PM

littlehat wrote on Thu, 03 April 2008 11:36

I've been registered and all ordered up for a while...

Just never clicked the fancy magnifier!

Maybe you should change your signature to read: "Click the Fancy Magnifier", instead of "Push the RED button!"

Laughing

Randy
Zetajazz44
Click HERE to Register for the Musician's Workshop Group Buy
Click HERE to See Another One of My Hobbies

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: YZ on April 03, 2008, 04:40:40 PM

TB-AV wrote on Thu, 03 April 2008 11:10

Randy, I can see all the graphics pop-up just as you have posted.

XP/Firefox 2.0.0.13

TB

Works OK here too, same config as above quote.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on April 03, 2008, 06:19:51 PM

CHANCE wrote on Thu, 03 April 2008 23:40

You guys that are recording horns I HATE YOU!! LOL
I love horns and it's been a long time since I've had the opportunity to track some.

I used an ACM-1 on trumpet and flugel horn a few weeks ago. Sounded great.

My ACM-3s are permanently set up on the Leslie and I've been using the ACM-2s quite a bit on guitar amps.

I tried a ACM-2 along with a U87 on Cello too. Sounded very good with or without the 87.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: littlehat on April 03, 2008, 06:59:27 PM

Zetajazz44 wrote on Thu, 03 April 2008 14:15

littlehat wrote on Thu, 03 April 2008 11:36

I've been registered and all ordered up for a while...

Just never clicked the fancy magnifier!

Maybe you should change your signature to read: "Click the Fancy Magnifier", instead of "Push the RED button!"

Laughing

OH NO YOU DIDN'T!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Zetajazz44 on April 04, 2008, 12:20:04 AM

Hi All:

I just spoke with Chance via telephone and he has decided that the cut-off date for the Group Buy is: April 13, 2008 - 12am EDT.

I have created a "countdown" clock on Registration page, the main page of the User Console and the "View Quantity By Product" page.

Again, a cut-off date for the group buy has been set: April 13, 2008 - 12am EDT.

Mark your calendars! Remind your friends!

Randy
Zetajazz44
Click HERE to Register for the Musician's Workshop Group Buy

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on April 04, 2008, 10:30:30 AM

Anybody care to comment on the various transformers that would be suitable for replacement in the ACP's?

ie; Sowter, Cinemag, Edcor, or others

Cheers,
j

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on April 04, 2008, 10:54:00 AM

0dbfs, I would comment, but I'm afraid to get too close to you.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: littlehat on April 04, 2008, 11:10:11 AM

Are Xfmr recommendations that intimate?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Barkley McKay on April 04, 2008, 11:11:00 AM

compasspnt wrote on Fri, 04 April 2008 15:54

0dbfs, I would comment, but I'm afraid to get too close to you.

Priceless!

The originals I beleive would have had Carnhill transformers. All still available.

Have a good weekend all.

Barkley

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on April 04, 2008, 11:13:53 AM

compasspnt wrote on Fri, 04 April 2008 10:54

0dbfs, I would comment, but I'm afraid to get too close to you.

I recommend keeping your distance although YMMV...

Smile

Cheers,
j

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on April 04, 2008, 12:21:30 PM

FWIW In the very beginning with this manufacturer, I made it known of my disatifaction with the xfrmrs and pots (which get much use). I was informed that on the pres, they are out-sourcing their pots and xfrmrs. Where? I don't know. Pretty sure it's outside of China.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on April 04, 2008, 12:51:20 PM

compasspnt wrote on Wed, 02 April 2008 13:30

I thought I mentioned this but everyone who witnessed and tried the prototypes were sold and so caught up in the moment that we failed to make any files

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Adrian Bradford on April 04, 2008, 09:22:12 PM

I guess nobody wants to open this colour thing up again.. but what about RAF gray, true to form? Can't argue with that now, can you?

Adrian

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on April 05, 2008, 07:25:19 AM

Adrian Bradford wrote on Fri, 04 April 2008 21:22

I guess nobody wants to open this colour thing up again.. but what about RAF gray, true to form? Can't argue with that now, can you?

Adrian

Pink. It's gotta be pink...

Title: NO! I NEED MORE TIME!!!!!
Post by: Bill_Urick on April 06, 2008, 08:56:14 AM

Does anyone have experience with both the ACM-2 and ACM-4? I picked up a pair of ACM-2's last group buy. Thinkin' bout some 4's, but do they sound very different?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on April 06, 2008, 10:18:27 AM

The Countdown Clock is running down...

http://www.n344rb.com/MUSICIANSWORKSHOP/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: wheever on April 06, 2008, 10:49:02 AM

I saw on the GB page that there's a vote going on for the preamp color. How do I vote?

I really want orange, or perhaps the rust orange. I mean, silly, I know, but since orange is an option and it's my fave color...

*sigh* Perhaps my priorities are messed up? Embarassed

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: btfnk on April 06, 2008, 01:30:21 PM

hey, i wanted to say that it looks like there is an ASP error with the registration page for the GB. I tried to register and it seems to have successfully put me into the db as a user (i am getting the mass emails) but I never got my registration confirmation email and so can't log in to actually place my order.

oh, and its not a spam filter issue. it did actually give me an error message with a particular line in the code mentioned when I tried to register.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: matti on April 06, 2008, 04:58:16 PM

Go to the user console and use password "password"
for the first time, then you can edit and order & so on

Matti

Some info here:
http://www.prodigy-pro.com/FORUM/viewtopic.php?t=27172&s id=1cc8dbb136f938b4969aab700aa8cc40

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Zetajazz44 on April 06, 2008, 10:38:24 PM

btfnk wrote on Sun, 06 April 2008 12:30

Complete instructions are found here: http://homerecording.com/bbs/showthread.php?t=260574 ,complete with screen shots.

Thanks,

Randy
Zetajazz44

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: btfnk on April 06, 2008, 11:41:55 PM

matti wrote on Sun, 06 April 2008 15:58

Go to the user console and use password "password"

ahh that does it. thanks!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: ScotcH on April 07, 2008, 04:30:15 PM

Curious ... when will the payment requests get sent out?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Zetajazz44 on April 07, 2008, 09:16:05 PM

ScotcH wrote on Mon, 07 April 2008 15:30

Curious ... when will the payment requests get sent out?

Actually, invoices will be "made available" via the User Console. On the same date as the deadline for registration, those will become available to view and pay...

There should be a mass email concerning this sent out tonight sometime.

Thanks,

Randy
Zetajazz44

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: A.J. on April 08, 2008, 05:19:18 PM

Placed my order today. Thanks to all involved.

Chance - it's so kind of you to answer personal emails and PMs with answers to all of these questions. You've been extremely generous with your time even though I'm sure your schedule is crazy right now.

And Randy - wow. I can't state enough how easy your interface has made this process. I can only imagine how much time you've put into this. Awesome job!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Zetajazz44 on April 09, 2008, 11:26:22 AM

A.J. wrote on Tue, 08 April 2008 16:19

And Randy - wow. I can't state enough how easy your interface has made this process. I can only imagine how much time you've put into this. Awesome job!

Thanks man!

Randy
Zetajazz44
Click HERE to Register for the Musician's Workshop Group Buy
Click HERE to See Another One of My Hobbies

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on April 09, 2008, 01:41:26 PM

A.J. wrote on Tue, 08 April 2008 14:19

Thanks for the kind words. Crazy? I'm just now starting to do my taxes. LOL

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: MagnetoSound on April 10, 2008, 03:27:25 PM

Been thinking about this for a while. Just got my registration and order in today. Two each of ACM-2 and ACM-3.

I really look forward to trying these out ....

Thanks guys, for taking the time to sort all this out and doing it so well!

Dan

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on April 10, 2008, 06:38:19 PM

http://www.n344rb.com/MUSICIANSWORKSHOP/QuantityByProduct.as p

I think you'll need a bigger truck this time Chance.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: garret on April 10, 2008, 08:31:14 PM

Whoa.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on April 10, 2008, 10:54:33 PM

There's been a real groundswell in favor of the pink pres.
I think we're looking good there.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on April 11, 2008, 01:14:12 AM

I'm pretty sure you won't be pretty in pink.

The truck is gonna hafta be huge.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Nizzle on April 11, 2008, 01:23:55 AM

In the past, what has been the typical "turnaround time" from when the order is placed to delivery to Chance. 6 weeks, 6 months?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: garret on April 11, 2008, 01:57:15 AM

compasspnt wrote on Fri, 11 April 2008 00:14

The truck is gonna hafta be huge.

Okay, seriously now.... This has gotten to be a serious undertaking. I really hope you're taking a cut, Chance. I'm sure everyone involved would be willing to pony up a few bucks to buy you some advil, or band-aids, or anything else that eases the pain of stuffing and labeling 600+ boxes. Maybe some of those rubber finger protectors?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: maxim on April 11, 2008, 06:29:27 AM

a couple of mexican children shouldn't be too expensive in califor

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on April 11, 2008, 08:50:43 AM

maxim wrote on Fri, 11 April 2008 03:29

a couple of mexican children shouldn't be too expensive in califor

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on April 11, 2008, 02:26:25 PM

garret wrote on Thu, 10 April 2008 22:57

compasspnt wrote on Fri, 11 April 2008 00:14

The truck is gonna hafta be huge.

Agreed.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: littlehat on April 11, 2008, 02:45:53 PM

When is the user console going to add the price info for the ACM-4?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on April 11, 2008, 02:48:42 PM

littlehat wrote on Fri, 11 April 2008 11:45

When is the user console going to add the price info for the ACM-4?

I sent that info out in the last mass-mail

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on April 11, 2008, 02:49:41 PM

littlehat wrote on Fri, 11 April 2008 14:45

When is the user console going to add the price info for the ACM-4?

HA!

Gotcha!

That's where the PROFIT is going to be made. The ACM-4's will be a million dollars each! But they are good.

Seriously, I THINK they are about...oh wait, we don't do prices here. They are ABOUT half of the cost of the 900.

Chance probably knows for sure if that's right.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: organica on April 11, 2008, 03:02:31 PM

According to the grand total that is listed below my order , the ACM-4's are free ! There was a price but not any more ........ Love it !

As it's nearly closing on this , were there any standout mics from the last time ? ............. reviews seem scattered - as in hard to find .

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on April 11, 2008, 03:17:18 PM

I was wondering about delivering with fedex. Is that air or ground? I'm wondering because I had to send a guitar to LA from Vancouver via fedex and I could have bought a cheap plane ticket, rented a hotel room, rented a car and delivered it myself for the same amount. And that was in a soft shell case too, no flight case or anything like that. Softshell case inside a cardboard box.
If you are planning on shipping this stuff fedex air the shipping could far far surpass the purchase price.
I've ordered 19 pieces, is this realistic?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: mr jason on April 11, 2008, 03:55:18 PM

In my limited experience of having equipment shipped from America (and Canada) I've always found USPS to be the cheapest, so this concerns me slightly too.
Saying that, I'm sure Chance will do whatever is best, and won't just randomly pick a courier.
Especially one that costs more than the equipment.
Well, hopefully..
Rolling Eyes

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on April 11, 2008, 03:56:35 PM

I THINK we are going to use Fedex ground, cheap rate, similar to UPS ground.

But again, Chance should elaborate when he gets a...chance.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: MagnetoSound on April 11, 2008, 04:04:06 PM

mr jason wrote on Fri, 11 April 2008 20:55

I'm sure Chance will do whatever is best, and won't just randomly pick a courier. Especially one that costs more than the equipment. Well, hopefully.. Rolling Eyes

Well, +1 on that! Wink

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on April 11, 2008, 07:42:01 PM

Only got a second I hope to mass mail after yhis session (around 10pm pac time(
I'll post the AMC-4 price too

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: thinman on April 11, 2008, 10:17:57 PM

.
Something seems out of sync with the countdown clock on the Group Buy console. Randy, did you forget to wind it today?
.

http://www.quickgifs.com/other/gearsa_gl.gif

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Zetajazz44 on April 12, 2008, 12:49:37 AM

thinman wrote on Fri, 11 April 2008 21:17

.
Something seems out of sync with the countdown clock on the Group Buy console. Randy, did you forget to wind it today?
.

Nah... That countdown clock is just for fun... Date/Time/Calendar are a programmer's nightmare... This particular clock operates off the date/time specified on the computer it's being ran on...yours, mine...etc, whom ever is looking at it at the time... So, if the date/time is off on your PC, the countdown clock will also be off... It's just so hard to make those countdowns work for everybody due to DST and those who don't participate in DST...etc... Really the one on the User Console and Registration page is just for fun...that's why I also posted the date/time in plain text: April 13, 2008 - 12am EDT.

Thanks!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: northmale on April 12, 2008, 07:13:24 AM

I think I am very reluctantly going to have to bail out of this buy. I haven't got time to raise the cash needed. I'm absolutely devastated at having to miss out but having recently switched my home mortgage and doing some home improvements I don't have any spare cash in April.

Sickening when I think of the cheque from recent work that will be through my door on the 1st of May.

Any clues when the following big group buy will be coming together?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on April 12, 2008, 08:39:10 AM

We will soon have good news about the future of TNC.

Thanks.

Title: Group Buy Payment Instructions
Post by: Zetajazz44 on April 12, 2008, 11:00:50 AM

Hello All Group Buy Participants:

With the deadline for registration soon approaching, April 13, 2008 - 12AM EDT, this also means the start of accepting payment for your group buy products. I'm sure that you all have seen when logged into the User Console, just below the list of your chosen products, there is a button:

http://www.n344rb.com/MUSICIANSWORKSHOP/images/ViewInvoiceButton.gif

that you click to view your invoice. At this time, this button is DISABED, since payments are not being accepted until after the registration deadline. After this deadline, this button will become active/clickable and you can view your invoice and make payment by clicking this button.

There is one piece of special instructions that I would like to add to this post, along with a screen shot to illustrate:
It will be a "normal" PayPal transaction. There is one important step that I want to remind you of. At the end of your payment transaction, you will arrive at a page similiar to the one depiced in the screen shot below. PLEASE click the button as depicted in the screen shot with a red circle drawn around it, labeled: "Return to musicians.workshop@gte.net" Clicking this button will return you back to the Group Buy User Console, along with information sent back from PayPal informing the User Console of your payment. It is VERY important that this step be completed, otherwise you will not be marked as PAID in the User Console database.

http://www.n344rb.com/MUSICIANSWORKSHOP/images/PaymentSS1.gif

Thanks in advance,

Randy
Zetajazz44

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigbone on April 12, 2008, 11:06:24 AM

Unfortunately , i will bail out of the buy this time. i don't have the time and resource
to mod those microphones, because ,am i right or wrong, i'm not sure that out
of the box , without mod, those mic will sound decent, i know that i did have to mod the ribbon mic that i get from the last group buy to make it decent, and again
don't get mad at me guys i'm with you, i got to make sure that i will do the right
thing about buying or not.......any last minute advice....... Smile

Thank you

Jean N.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: thinman on April 12, 2008, 01:23:22 PM

Zetajazz44 wrote on Fri, 11 April 2008 23:49

thinman wrote on Fri, 11 April 2008 21:17

.
Something seems out of sync with the countdown clock on the Group Buy console. Randy, did you forget to wind it today?
.

Thanks Randy. I use a Mac and my computer clock syncs w/ the Apple website and I do use DST. For me, the Console countdown clock shows the Group Buy ending tonight at 8:04pm EST.

The only reason I mentioned it all was to avoid confusion in case upon completing it's countdown, the Console clock should indicate (to some, like "El Kabong", who have agonized over their buying choices until the last minute) that the Group Buy Has Ended, when there are actually 2 hours left.

In any case, thanks for the clarification. Smile

Michael

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on April 13, 2008, 12:21:28 AM

Chance, since I'm not that far from you and am very appreciative of your efforts, I'd like to volunteer to come over once you've received these things & help you pack'em up.

And I promise not to include any stray telephones.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: garret on April 13, 2008, 12:42:36 AM

Regarding Chance's question (in an email) about international shipping costs...

I wonder if we could find one or two trustworthy volunteers from each country to serve as distributors? I would bet that "in country" shipping rates are much better than international shipping rates.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: thinman on April 13, 2008, 12:45:02 AM

Just wondering, did that phone ever turn up?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: MagnetoSound on April 13, 2008, 06:22:27 AM

garret wrote on Sun, 13 April 2008 05:42

I'd be glad to help out with this, if it will make a difference, even if it is just to help out a little on the US side.
I don't know how many UK buyers there are, but it's not as if I don't have the time.

Feel free to PM me if you want to discuss. Smile

Dan

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: btfnk on April 13, 2008, 11:33:08 AM

garret wrote on Sat, 12 April 2008 23:42

I wonder if we could find one or two trustworthy volunteers from each country to serve as distributors? I would bet that "in country" shipping rates are much better than international shipping rates.

Yeah I think this is probably the ticket. One mass shipping per country and then distro within. It should cut down costs. I might be able to help out with that for Canada.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Zetajazz44 on April 13, 2008, 01:48:38 PM

btfnk wrote on Sun, 13 April 2008 10:33

garret wrote on Sat, 12 April 2008 23:42

I wonder if we could find one or two trustworthy volunteers from each country to serve as distributors? I would bet that "in country" shipping rates are much better than international shipping rates.

Yeah I think this is probably the ticket. One mass shipping per country and then distro within. It should cut down costs. I might be able to help out with that for Canada.

Here's a thought:

If/when you guys agree on a "common" shipping address for each country, if you will send them to me, I will put them in the User Console to where when I person is entering their shipping data, they can choose a "pre-populated" address from the selections that you send to me...

Just thinking this might cut down on typo's...

One last thing: For anyone who has not noticed, at the bottom of the page in the User Console, there is a section labeled: "PERSONAL Shipping Info". This is where you will enter your shipping information. If you have not done this, please do at some point before the shipping process starts... This is the area that I mentioned above where I could add "pre-populated" addresses for those of you in other countries wanting a common distribution address...

Thanks,

Randy
Zetajazz44
Click HERE to Register for the Musician's Workshop Group Buy
Click HERE to See Another One of My Hobbies

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Jeff Chitouras on April 13, 2008, 08:50:22 PM

Randy-

I just tried to pay and ended up with the following message from PayPal.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Tom L on April 13, 2008, 09:16:12 PM

Jeff Chitouras wrote on Sun, 13 April 2008 16:50

Randy-

I just tried to pay and ended up with the following message from PayPal.

same here

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Zetajazz44 on April 13, 2008, 10:02:49 PM

Jeff Chitouras wrote on Sun, 13 April 2008 19:50

Randy-

I just tried to pay and ended up with the following message from PayPal.

I just got back in from a drive into GA to pick up my wife... Let me check it out... I seriously doubt it is a problem with "our side" of things, probably something with PayPal...
They've probably pulled some stunt like suspend Chance's account for stupid reason like...too much use or something...

In the meantime, here's some good reading: http://www.paypalsucks.com/

Randy
Zetajazz44

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on April 14, 2008, 08:29:40 AM

Hey guys
I've been up now for 24 hours. Yesterday I got the news that I owe the IRS $1K and I get back and get this news from Paypal. I think someone MIGHT have given them false information to stop us. I now feel like I found a way where everyone can get gasoline for $1.00 a gallon and the big oil companies are stepping on us like stompping out a cigarrette butt. I feel like I am being wrongly accused of something and I don't know what. My ingegrity has been tarnished when my motives are pure. I have to confess I am ANGRY. My first gut feeling is revenge, but that is out of the question. My only payback to them is to never use their service again. NOW I understand why many of you bailed out because I was using Pay Pal. Their fees seem way too high and I am not alone in this thinking. The manufacturer has everything in place and is waiting on us. We are blessed to have Randy who has the know how in these matters. This whole thing is going to make us stronger and better with a lot of new affordable quality gear in the future. I'm on a mission now and I WON't let you all down.
Edit/Delete Message

edit
I forgot to mention that I ordered Pay Pal to immeadiately refund everyone their money back INCLUDING FEES!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Nick Sevilla on April 14, 2008, 12:51:35 PM

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 14 April 2008 05:29

Hi Chance,

I will patiently wait for you to get the payment thing taken care of... no worries.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TB-AV on April 14, 2008, 05:22:12 PM

Chance and/or Randy,

I just received an email from PayPal that stated the request for funds had been canceled.

I have not as yet tried to make the payment for this buy after reading your recent emails.

Also the more important thing might be, the request referenced an order that was not for this buy. I think it was for the last buy.

Just a heads up. I know you are working on this but I thought you might need to know this happened.

TB

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on April 14, 2008, 05:57:19 PM

Yeah, I got one of those as well.

Paypal is not my favourite anymore.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: fiasco ( P.M.DuMont ) on April 14, 2008, 06:04:21 PM

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 14 April 2008 08:29

I'm on a mission now and I WON't let you all down.

Dear Chance and Randy,
I, for one, am not worried one iota. While I look forward to the gear, that means nothing when someones' sanity could be at stake, or ones' integrity may be besmirched.

Most unfortunate that something so communal and enterprising should be subjected to the B.S. that so often surrounds us.

Chance and Randy (and all others who may, in anyway, help), I am behind you 100%... gear or no gear.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: fiasco ( P.M.DuMont ) on April 14, 2008, 06:05:38 PM

compasspnt wrote on Mon, 14 April 2008 17:57

Yeah, I got one of those as well.

Paypal is not my favourite anymore.

Some pal.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on April 14, 2008, 07:27:09 PM

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 14 April 2008 22:29

edit
I forgot to mention that I ordered Pay Pal to immeadiately refund everyone their money back INCLUDING FEES!

I wonder how long they'll take to do that? Can't imagine them doing it in a hurry!

I see that paypal will be the only payment option on ebay soon.....

Thanks Chance. I appreciate all you're doing for us.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on April 15, 2008, 08:39:13 AM

Joined: 16 Feb 2006
Posts: 33
Location: Ontario California

PostPosted: Tue Apr 15, 2008 12:33 pm Post subject: Reply with quote Edit/Delete this post Delete this post
As I mentioned I ordered Pay Pal to return everyones funds including the fees. About a month ago I sold some personal gear to a friend on the east coast. He has his gear, but Pay pal will not give me those funds either. I need it to pay the IRS Has everyone got their refund?
This is turning out to be a mixed blessing as Randy found something better.
PP charges 2.9% plus .30 per transaction. This other method is 1% plus .50 per. I am also working with the NAMM shipping that will offer a great savings for shipping outside of the states.
This thing with PP really has me upset, but we're past that now. Everyone should have their refund from PP by today
_________________

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: thinman on April 15, 2008, 04:22:22 PM

Everybody, here's some recent information regarding Paybal / Ebay:

Ebay, which owns Paypal, went public not long ago and now has stockholders. They got a new CEO just this month and have made very dramatic changes to their policies.

They have grown disenchanted with their small sellers in favor of the Power Sellers. The occasional sellers require more staff to support their auctions but they don't bring in the revenue to eBay that the Power Sellers do. They are looking to reduce their staff as their stock market performance has been declining.

The new CEO has publicly expressed displeasure with the Ebay site, that it is like a flea market. Well, isn't that what it has always has been...a worldwide garage sale? They want to be more like Amazon or Walmart. It's all about the stockholders now.

As a seller, Paypal can hold the funds paid to you from a buyer for 21 days under certain conditions, like if they believe something looks unusual.

Ebay is now taking over 8% of the sale price for an item and taking a percentage of the shipping cost cost as well.

The policies appear to benefit buyers and really screw the sellers. As of May 5, sellers will not be able to give a negative feedback to a seller. If a buyer rips off a seller, the seller has little recourse but to let Ebay handle it, which as any longtime user knows, they don't.

So, in my opinion we are better off without Paypal anyway. They are just too scary these days.

A big thank you from this corner to Randy for coming through again!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: E Merrill on April 15, 2008, 04:50:20 PM

thinman wrote on Tue, 15 April 2008 16:22

Everybody, here's some recent information regarding Paybal / Ebay:

Ebay, which owns Paypal, went public not long ago and now has stockholders.

Ebay has been a publicly traded company since January 1999.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: thinman on April 15, 2008, 06:50:54 PM

Eric Merrill wrote on Tue, 15 April 2008 15:50

thinman wrote on Tue, 15 April 2008 16:22

Everybody, here's some recent information regarding Paybal / Ebay:

Ebay, which owns Paypal, went public not long ago and now has stockholders.

Ebay has been a publicly traded company since January 1999.

Sorry, my mistake, then. I read a newspaper article recently about Meg Whitman leaving the company and the way that article read, it sounded like the going public was much more recent. Apologies to all for getting that wrong.

The rest of my post, I stand by, as it all comes first hand. My overall point is that Ebay and Paypal are becoming even less transparent to deal with and are instituting new policies that put more and more of the seller's earnings in their own pockets while continuing to do nothing real or substantial to address the problem of scammers and frauds.

Not using Paypal for the group buy is a positive thing.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on April 15, 2008, 07:14:49 PM

CHANCE wrote on Tue, 15 April 2008 22:39

No refund here yet.

Just curious Chance. How many people had paid before they shut us down?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: tunetown on April 15, 2008, 08:08:17 PM

No refund here yet either. This could drag on. Hopefully, we get the refund before the new payment method is sorted. please confirm that we wont miss the next payment deadline while waiting for the refund.

Thanks for all your hard work on this GB.

Cheers

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on April 16, 2008, 12:43:27 AM

Greg Dixon wrote on Tue, 15 April 2008 19:14

Just curious Chance. How many people had paid before they shut us down?

Forty-eight people, 240 pieces of gear.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: nob turner on April 16, 2008, 01:37:36 AM

chance, you might talk to your bank about getting a merchant credit card account. i've certainly worked at a few mom&pop studios that did that, and the fees were lower than what paypal is currently charging. usually the fees are based on your monthly gross transactions... so odds are they'd be relatively low for the short period of time that you'd be accepting payment for this gear.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Nick Sevilla on April 16, 2008, 11:45:18 AM

nob turner wrote on Tue, 15 April 2008 22:37

+1 on the merchant credit account. Easy to set up, and great rates for both buyer and seller. Plus if it's a through a major credit card, it's insured as well VS all kinds of things.

Cheers

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on April 17, 2008, 08:28:53 AM

Still waiting on P-pal. Here is their latest response

From: service@paypal.com
Date: Wed, 16 Apr 2008 15:18:56 -0700
To: musicians.workshop@gte.net
Subject: Request for Additional Information on Case PP-456-810-537

Dear Chance Pataki,

My name is Andrea and I work for the office of Executive Escalations. Your concerns were recently forwarded to our office. Please allow me to explain further.

Unfortunately I was unable to contact you via telephone regarding your recent request. Your PayPal account is currently being reviewed and you will receive a response from PayPal within 24 hours. We make every effort to respond quickly and thoroughly to the concerns and questions we receive by email or telephone. I apologize for any inconvenience regarding the delay in responding to your recent request.

If you have any further questions please contact us at crme@paypal.com.

Sincerely,
Andrea
PayPal Executive Escalations Department
PayPal, an eBay Company

Please do not reply to this email. This mailbox is not monitored and you will not receive a response. For assistance, log in to your PayPal account and click the Help link located in the top right corner of any page. If your inquiry is regarding a claim, log in to your PayPal account and go to the Resolution Center.

------------------------------------------------------------ ----

PayPal Email ID PP821

No virus found in this incoming message.
Checked by AVG.
Version: 7.5.524 / Virus Database: 269.23.0/1381 - Release Date: 4/16/2008 9:34 AM

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on April 17, 2008, 08:31:23 AM

Hopefully Andrea, on behalf of Paypal, will expedite this matter.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on April 17, 2008, 08:35:45 AM

Well this group buy is just small change really. They were only going to make $8000 for their 'efforts'. I can see why they wouldn't care.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on April 17, 2008, 09:28:31 AM

Originally Posted by chance View Post
Here is the latest reply from P-pal

From: service@paypal.com
Date: Wed, 16 Apr 2008 15:18:56 -0700
To: musicians.workshop@gte.net
Subject: Request for Additional Information on Case PP-456-810-537

Dear Chance Pataki,

My name is Andrea and I work for the office of Executive Escalations. Your concerns were recently forwarded to our office. Please allow me to explain further.

Unfortunately I was unable to contact you via telephone regarding your recent request. Your PayPal account is currently being reviewed and you will receive a response from PayPal within 24 hours. We make every effort to respond quickly and thoroughly to the concerns and questions we receive by email or telephone. I apologize for any inconvenience regarding the delay in responding to your recent request.

Sincerely,
Andrea
PayPal Executive Escalations Department
PayPal, an eBay Company

Please do not reply to this email. This mailbox is not monitored and you will not receive a response. For assistance, log in to your PayPal account and click the Help link located in the top right corner of any page. If your inquiry is regarding a claim, log in to your PayPal account and go to the Resolution Center.

------------------------------------------------------------ ----

PayPal Email ID PP821

No virus found in this incoming message.
Checked by AVG.
Version: 7.5.524 / Virus Database: 269.23.0/1381 - Release Date: 4/16/2008 9:34 AM

Regarding the letter Chance posted above, I think it's necessary that I reveal my recent involvement in this problem. First, I have no money tied up in this because I hadn't yet paid my invoice so sticking my nose in wasn't self-motivated.

Obviously, I've been following this problem as we all have and I was hoping it would resolve itself quickly. When it was apparent that it wouldn't, I sent a message to Chance offering to assist and, with his thanks and approval, I emailed a cousin of mine who is a very upper level executive at ebay explaining the problem and asking if he could assist in getting it cleared up. I sent the email late in the afternoon on Tuesday and yesterday I received a phone call from Andrea (the one who sent the letter to Chance) who told me that she'd been contacted by my cousin and would be handling this problem.

I am revealing this now because I think it would work against Chance's best interests and the interests of those who have their money tied up, if people started filling Andrea's email box with letters of complaint. She is going to expedite the handling of this issue and it will get resolved quicker than if it had gone through normal channels. So please don't sabotage our chances of a fast resolution just to let off a little steam.

Jim
Reply With Quote

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: maxim on April 17, 2008, 09:31:13 AM

"Executive Escalations"!!!...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on April 17, 2008, 11:00:37 AM

Group Buy Sabatoge !!!!!
I was just notified with the name and E-dress of the person who threw the wrench in the spokes. His reason to PP was that he did not get a reciept. I won't post his name, but I relayed that he has made MANY PEOPLE UPSET. To that person: YOU COULD HAVE GOTTEN YOUR REFUND A LONG TIME AGO IF YOU WOULD HAVE ASKED! Your intentions are OBVIOUS now. You tied up your own money too! The funds have been returned. I hope you are satified. Oh,, and thank you for choosing to participate with us.

On another note A BIG thanks for all the support and words of encouragment from everyone here.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: ShakesTheClown on April 17, 2008, 11:07:41 AM

Does the original payment cutoff date still stand then?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on April 17, 2008, 11:11:09 AM

ShakesTheClown wrote on Thu, 17 April 2008 08:07

Does the original payment cutoff date still stand then?

LOL I think things are extended a bit. you might want to PM Randy

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: jzombie on April 17, 2008, 11:16:51 AM

Just got this from paypal:

We are writing to you in regards to your recent transaction involving
musicians.workshop@gte.net. The seller has requested that we issue you
a full refund, and we have issued the refund accordingly.

Note: If the payment, or a portion of the payment, was funded by your
credit card, the appropriate amount will be refunded to your credit
card. You will see this in your transaction log as two entries. The first
is the refund to your PayPal account, and the second is the credit to
your credit card. Credits to a credit card normally take 2-3 business
days to post through the card issuer and may not immediately affect the
balance on the card.

Sincerely,
PayPal

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on April 17, 2008, 11:22:15 AM

erm...

I assume that we will get an e-mail letting us know when the payment cutoff date is?
I would hate to get left out!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Fibes on April 17, 2008, 11:24:20 AM

I'm lost, just tell me what i'm supposed to do to finish the transaction.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TB-AV on April 17, 2008, 01:19:02 PM

I think we are supposed to wait until Randy gets a new system in place. That's the way I read it.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: YZ on April 17, 2008, 01:25:18 PM

CHANCE wrote on Thu, 17 April 2008 12:00

I hope that whomever it was, he/she at least tried to contact Chance before complaining with PP.

What Chance is doing is a Good Thing and the conditions were clear from the start; some delays are bound to happen but the people have to bear in mind that we're dealing with small quantities (compared with regular OEM deals) and individual buyers from all over the map; besides, Chance's honesty is not to be doubted, the guy has a 45+ year career and a name to protect.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on April 17, 2008, 02:31:33 PM

I think it is likely that the "complainer" did so on purpose, to make things harder for the Group Buy. These GB's are NOT popular in some circles...nothing more should be said about that.

Everyone just indeed stand by while the new payment methodology is worked out. This will cost everyone less, and work better anyway.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigbone on April 17, 2008, 03:33:45 PM

Good thing the group buy existe..it show that some peoples who are selling gear are making some serious money........

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on April 17, 2008, 04:45:46 PM

bigbone wrote on Thu, 17 April 2008 15:33

Good thing the group buy existe..it show that some peoples who are selling gear are making some serious money........

Maybe that's what it looks like, but you also have to think about many other things.

Chance has never taken any profit at all from this, or ever been paid at all for the thousands of hours he has put into these Group Buys. In all honesty, sometimes it seems he is crazy or something, for doing so much for nothing. But he enjoys it, and it has been a way to participate in the making of new pieces of gear, as well as getting some of it to work with and experiment with.

But almost nobody else in the world is able to, or would, do all of this. After the cost of the raw products, there are shipping costs, dock charges, Customs duties, local trucking, sorting, packing, shipping, worrying about the Paypal thing, and many, many other tasks. And with the amount of goods this has now turned into, it is almost unfathomable to the outside world how much work it all is.

Companies cannot, and will not, do all of this without some profit.

So when you see a "similar" product sold for more cost, it may well not be that they are "greedy" at all, but just that they are an actual company that NEEDS to make a profit to even justify doing it at all.

There are probably some out there taking more profits than others, but it is always not as easy, or as clear cut, as it appears at first glance.

Thanks again, Chance. (There's your pay.)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on April 17, 2008, 06:08:38 PM

Yes indeed!

THANK YOU CHANCE!! Very Happy

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigbone on April 17, 2008, 06:41:09 PM

compasspnt wrote on Thu, 17 April 2008 16:45

bigbone wrote on Thu, 17 April 2008 15:33

Good thing the group buy existe..it show that some peoples who are selling gear are making some serious money........

Terry

Just to make myself clear, i got nothing agains profits.your point is more than valid.
And Chance is a brave men to do it , it's insane the work that he got to do and i'm the first one to admitted it.

Everybody should make profit in life for the work that you do, but when you see the money that some of these electronic company, or some of the distributor are making, it's insane, but again it's fair competitions.it's only a personal observation, when you walk in the parking lots of one of the biggest distributor in canada, there is a lot of BMW and mercedes in the lots if you know what i mean........

All the best

Jean Nadeau

Montreal, Canada

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on April 17, 2008, 07:10:57 PM

Yes, and those are good cars. I have one of each myself.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: tunetown on April 17, 2008, 07:22:19 PM

Just received my Paypal refund notification. Great work Chance and Randy.

I look forward to re-buying my order. Very Happy

Cheers

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on April 17, 2008, 07:51:42 PM

tunetown wrote on Fri, 18 April 2008 09:22

Just received my Paypal refund notification. Great work Chance and Randy.

I look forward to re-buying my order. Very Happy

Cheers

Ditto.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigbone on April 17, 2008, 08:40:48 PM

compasspnt wrote on Thu, 17 April 2008 19:10

Yes, and those are good cars. I have one of each myself.

I'm happy for you Terry.....hope these will give you some great moment....
Very Happy

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: maxim on April 17, 2008, 09:51:54 PM

"In all honesty, sometimes it seems he is crazy or something, for doing so much for nothing."

keep taking the crazy pills, chance...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on April 17, 2008, 10:23:00 PM

maxim wrote on Thu, 17 April 2008 21:51

"In all honesty, sometimes it seems he is crazy or something, for doing so much for nothing."

keep taking the crazy pills, chance...

Of course, I'm sure it was obvious to all that was said with all respect and admiration.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: maxim on April 18, 2008, 03:37:47 AM

likewise...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: MagnetoSound on April 18, 2008, 04:12:19 AM

If we don't know shipping charges yet, are we supposed to pay the goods invoice now, and the shipping charges later, or wait and pay the total in one go?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on April 18, 2008, 08:16:27 AM

Hey
I have gotten many E-mails advising me that this was possibily not sabatoge. Heres what happened. After PP froze everything and after many calls, PP sent me the complaint that someone sent. The complaint was "that he never got a reciept and or goods". We looked up his E-dress/username and what forum he was part of. That username, forum, and E/dress was not related to ANY of the forums. PP requested a tracking number showing delivery. EVERYONE knew that the gear was not even manufactured yet. It's obvious that this was deliberate. I wanted to drop this subject, but at the same time I wanted to clear this up. Now we can DROP it and move forward. A mass mail will go out this week end.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on April 18, 2008, 10:21:16 AM

I agree. Let's get back to discussing those pink preamps. Laughing

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on April 18, 2008, 01:22:20 PM

willowhaus wrote on Fri, 18 April 2008 07:21

I agree. Let's get back to discussing those pink preamps. Laughing

I thought we agreed to compromise... Purple Paisly with pink/yellow knobs & buttons... ?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: duckhunter on April 18, 2008, 02:19:14 PM

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 14 April 2008 07:29

I just found out Tuesday that I still owed the IRS $74K so don't complain too much. Life is too short. You'll get the group buy purchase conduit straightened out soon.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on April 18, 2008, 02:24:14 PM

$74K? wow,, I feel ya

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on April 18, 2008, 06:42:05 PM

One word:

"Quarterly."

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on April 18, 2008, 07:12:04 PM

^^ Excellent word.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: maxim on April 19, 2008, 12:08:46 AM

not biannually then...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Crash on April 23, 2008, 09:19:40 AM

Chance or Randy, any chance we could get an update on where we stand today, post PayPal meltdown, on dates for payment, cutoff, etc?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on April 23, 2008, 09:51:27 AM

We're still working on getting the payment system underwritten. Something I've been meaning to mention. When the mass mails go out there are about 12 delivery failure replies. There are a couple that state that these are spam filters. I guess you can also read these mass mails when you log in the console

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on April 24, 2008, 11:44:05 AM

I just spoke to Randy on the phone and we are finally approved. Once Randy has the vin number, he can link it to the console.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on April 25, 2008, 12:09:47 PM

I've gotten quite a few E-mails regardig changing their order. Apparently some in the USA have gotten a rebate check for $600.00 and want to "up" their order. Up and until the time you actually pay, you can change your order. (up, down, or cancel)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: ktownson on April 25, 2008, 04:14:29 PM

I'll bet G.W. will be thrilled to know you're sending your economic stimulus checks to China! Laughing

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: garret on April 25, 2008, 04:18:51 PM

ktownson wrote on Fri, 25 April 2008 15:14

I'll bet G.W. will be thrilled to know you're sending your economic stimulus checks to China! Laughing

Seems fitting to me, considering that's where we borrowed the money!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on April 25, 2008, 09:57:59 PM

garret wrote on Fri, 25 April 2008 13:18

ktownson wrote on Fri, 25 April 2008 15:14

I'll bet G.W. will be thrilled to know you're sending your economic stimulus checks to China! Laughing

Seems fitting to me, considering that's where we borrowed the money!

Heheh. That's exactly what I was thinking...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigbone on April 26, 2008, 10:50:47 AM

ktownson wrote on Fri, 25 April 2008 16:14

I'll bet G.W. will be thrilled to know you're sending your economic stimulus checks to China! Laughing

This could be a great debate....ALMOST as good as the need of a SM 57 on a snare..
Laughing

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on April 26, 2008, 01:54:46 PM

Copied & pasted from Randy

GB Payment Update
Hi All:

Just wanted to give you a quick update on the GB Payment Process.

I have finished all the coding on our side, and have ran several test transactions through the gateway and it seems to be working 100%. I feel confident enough that I wouldn't mind opening up payments again, but I'm still waiting on the SSL to be installed on the server... I wouldn't enter my credit card info on a website that wasn't SSL secure, and I don't expect anyone else to do that either...

As soon as this SSL certificate is installed, we should be good to go...

Thanks,

Randy

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on April 26, 2008, 02:47:04 PM

CHANCE wrote on Sat, 26 April 2008 10:54

but I'm still waiting on the SSL to be installed

is that an E series or G series?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on April 26, 2008, 05:46:07 PM

Not sure, but it has Total Recall.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: thinman on April 26, 2008, 10:14:09 PM

Les Ismore wrote on Sat, 26 April 2008 13:47

CHANCE wrote on Sat, 26 April 2008 10:54

but I'm still waiting on the SSL to be installed

is that an E series or G series?

Acronyms must never leave their own realms. You see what can happen.
.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on April 27, 2008, 07:13:51 PM

compasspnt wrote on Sun, 27 April 2008 07:46

Not sure, but it has Total Recall.

Total recall of credit card numbers is what we want to avoid isn't it?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: feedback loop on April 27, 2008, 10:01:23 PM

Chance, as you know, I was out of commission for a few weeks. Is it too late to get in on the latest buy?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on April 27, 2008, 10:17:15 PM

Fred Baugher wrote on Sun, 27 April 2008 19:01

Chance, as you know, I was out of commission for a few weeks. Is it too late to get in on the latest buy?

I'll send you a PM in the morning. (I can't find the link right now)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on April 28, 2008, 11:31:04 AM

I got a LOT of delivery failure notices for the mass mail. If you are registered, you can read it on the console. I suspect the failures are due to spam blockers
Edit/Delete Message

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on April 28, 2008, 01:15:34 PM

Fred Baugher wrote on Sun, 27 April 2008 19:01

Chance, as you know, I was out of commission for a few weeks. Is it too late to get in on the latest buy?

Wow, Fred, judging by your Avatar that hospital stay has really changed you!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on April 29, 2008, 09:03:42 AM

Well, it looks like we will be opening up the payment process this Friday. Also we re-opened the registration. The payment period will be ten days.
Edit/Delete Message

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on April 29, 2008, 01:01:50 PM

Shipping Outside The Usa
I am still working on this and just spoke to NAMM/DHL
Their rates for a three pound package to the UK is around $50.00
A one hundred pound package to the UK is around $375.00
three pounds to Austrailia is $54.00
one hundred pounds to Austrailia is $514.00
All of these are two day delivery
I am still working on prices with USPS and will post when I get more info
Edit/Delete Message

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on April 29, 2008, 04:15:29 PM

I just met with the people at the USPS
Here are their rates
3 pounds to the UK is $28.00
70 pounds (max per pkg) $370.00

To Austrailia
3 pounds is $21.70
70 pounds (max per) $507.55

Man Thats a lot of money. If only we had someone to intercede. I am open for any and all suggestions

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: feedback loop on April 29, 2008, 04:44:12 PM

If you can find volunteers, it might be cheaper to ship all mics for Australia (for example) to one guy in Australia and then he can ship to in-country buyers. That would cut down on customs paperwork as well. The cost of shipping to Australia would be divided up between the buyers.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on April 29, 2008, 06:59:58 PM

Originally Posted by gareth.h.rees
Okay, so its hugely expensive... but it still works out pretty cheap considering the exchange rate!

When are we expecting the goods to arrive chance if its before september I'd consider dealing with UK orders.

Cheers
Gareth

[edit] woops just noticed your in australia... don't know how that works out for you!:S
Any orders that might want to combine (group orders?) would have to be undertaken by those of you in those countries. Those who want to do this should NOW start a new topic in all of the forums to get that rolling. It would be nice and simple to only send one order to each country. I'll copy and paste this in some of the other boards existing group buy topics.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: garret on April 29, 2008, 09:37:59 PM

CHANCE wrote on Tue, 29 April 2008 17:59

Any orders that might want to combine (group orders?) would have to be undertaken by those of you in those countries. Those who want to do this should NOW start a new topic in all of the forums to get that rolling. It would be nice and simple to only send one order to each country. I'll copy and paste this in some of the other boards existing group buy topics.

Chance or Randy.. could you guys look through the order database and see what countries are well-represented? That might help get the ball rolling...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: YZ on April 29, 2008, 11:34:30 PM

CHANCE wrote on Tue, 29 April 2008 19:59

Chance,

Sent you a PM about shipping options.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on April 29, 2008, 11:41:57 PM

While we're waiting for the gear, we can wear the T-shirts...

http://www.cafepress.com/tnc_audio

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: maxim on April 29, 2008, 11:54:19 PM

fluoro green is so in this year...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cameron_k on April 30, 2008, 12:17:31 AM

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 30 April 2008 03:01

Shipping Outside The Usa:

one hundred pounds to Austrailia is $514.00

Note to self: use this method next time I want to get myself home from a U.S. holiday.

On a serious note.... Australian Customs intercept parcels at the incoming airport, then apply the following calculation: they take the cost of the goods, add the cost of shipping, then convert to $AU using the current exchange rate. If that value is under $1000AU then there's nothing to pay. Zero. If that value is greater than $1000AU then Customs Duty and GST apply, seriously bumping up the price of the purchase. This would preclude us from doing a bulk shipment to Australia, no??

As a point of reference, I had a single rack unit API box sent over from The States about 1 year ago. Cost of shipping via Fedex was $122U.S./$140AU. While I'd be thrilled to pay $0.05 for shipping, if I can realistically get a mic pre and 2 mics shipped over for around that price ($120U.S.) then I'd be happy. That's a fair bit cheaper than the current/standard Fedex rate IIRC.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: tunetown on April 30, 2008, 01:23:49 AM

I'd be willing to offer my warehousing facilities in Sydney for all those Aussies in the GB if the Extra Duty and GST was covered in advance by those members. I could easily handle a good number of pallets.
You could then Pick it up directly or I'll post it registered. The last mic I posted cost about $12 registered AUS post from sydney to Gold Coast.
Of course if their is any hardship or additional work for Chance then it may be better to just leave it as it is.
As they say" Whatever works"
Let me know.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cameron_k on April 30, 2008, 02:43:11 AM

Thanks for the offer Peter.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: maxim on April 30, 2008, 05:33:49 AM

the duty thing is a bummer

are the costs quoted shipping by sea?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on April 30, 2008, 10:22:42 AM

Btw Registrations Are Open Again

Just a note: payments will start on Friday and due to the overwhelming response, registrations are now re-opened

http://www.tnc-audio.com

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: A.J. on April 30, 2008, 01:03:47 PM

Hey Chance,

I'll be happy to host your tnc-audio.com page for free. I have the server space.
You'd lose that godaddy bar at the top. Just let me know.

Best,
A.J.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on April 30, 2008, 03:26:47 PM

Thanks AJ. We do plan (of course) to move it when things are more set. We will keep your kind offer in mind!

Wow...41 pages now of Group Buy Madness...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cameron_k on April 30, 2008, 07:49:45 PM

maxim wrote on Wed, 30 April 2008 19:33

the duty thing is a bummer

are the costs quoted shipping by sea?

Hi Max,

Apologies - have been off-air.

If you mean the price I listed re: Fedex shipping of the API unit then no, that was air. I think it took about 5 - 6 days from New York to Brisbane.

I need to look into this further, but the U.S./Aus Free Trade Agreement dictates that no Customs Duty is payable if the goods are manufactured in the U.S. That's not the case, so even though the parcels will be shipped from The States, Duty will still apply if the product + ship value in $AU is over $1000. Oi fink.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: maxim on April 30, 2008, 10:15:36 PM

the bastards charged me duty on the api...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: littlehat on April 30, 2008, 11:30:41 PM

compasspnt wrote on Tue, 29 April 2008 23:41

While we're waiting for the gear, we can wear the T-shirts...

http://www.cafepress.com/tnc_audio

I WILL buy one of these if on the back it says...

"Empowered by CHANCE"

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on May 01, 2008, 07:56:40 AM

+1

I would buy a few.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: nob turner on May 01, 2008, 11:20:32 AM

in typical american business fashion... before we've got a company or products, we've got a logo and swag!!

well, i suppose marketing makes the world go around. you think the chinese manufacturers will steal this too? Very Happy

and geez... i can't IMAGINE what TNC stands for...

compasspnt wrote on Tue, 29 April 2008 20:41

While we're waiting for the gear, we can wear the T-shirts...

http://www.cafepress.com/tnc_audio

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on May 01, 2008, 01:54:27 PM

nob turner wrote on Thu, 01 May 2008 08:20

in typical american business fashion... before we've got a company or products, we've got a logo and swag!!

well, i suppose marketing makes the world go around.

Tying in neatly to two different recent threads, we should probably soon think about producing a commercial for these products featuring (the obvious choice), a reworked version of AC/DCs "TNT"

Cause we're T - N - C!
We're dynamite!
We're T - N - C!

Doncha think?

Okay, I'll run now...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on May 01, 2008, 03:53:05 PM

Actually, that was the plan. With Burt B singing...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on May 01, 2008, 06:49:41 PM

I think I'm a total moron.....

Somebody smack me if I'm an idiot, but originally I was going get a pair of the 73's because I wanted a pair of DIs for tracking keyboards.

But I JUST NOW REALIZED that all of the pres have line level inputs that hit the input transformers. As well, the 81 is class A like the 73 (unlike the 1081 which is A/B). So I'm thinking I might as well just get the 81 and track my keyboards through the line-in.

Is there something I'm overlooking here? Am I an idiot? I'm just so used to using DIs with keyboards that this never occured to me that I could go line in with these pres.

Somebody correct me if I'm wrong or if they think things will sound more 'magical' (whatever that means) using the direct-in on the 73 vs. the line-in of any of the pres for a typical keyboard.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on May 01, 2008, 10:05:37 PM

Yes you're an idiot,

but so am I.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on May 01, 2008, 11:29:14 PM

littlehat wrote on Wed, 30 April 2008 23:30

compasspnt wrote on Tue, 29 April 2008 23:41

While we're waiting for the gear, we can wear the T-shirts...

http://www.cafepress.com/tnc_audio

I WILL buy one of these if on the back it says...

"Empowered by CHANCE"

Done.

http://www.cafepress.com/tnc_audio.261058265

Small, but cute.

index.php/fa/8717/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: maxim on May 01, 2008, 11:59:29 PM

i like the melange of capitalism and communism that is happening here

copulism???

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: tunetown on May 02, 2008, 12:29:30 AM

Capunism...???

That's business comrades....

Cool

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: MagnetoSound on May 02, 2008, 03:14:38 AM

Cappucinism, perhaps?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: littlehat on May 02, 2008, 04:01:51 AM

compasspnt wrote on Thu, 01 May 2008 23:29

littlehat wrote on Wed, 30 April 2008 23:30

compasspnt wrote on Tue, 29 April 2008 23:41

While we're waiting for the gear, we can wear the T-shirts...

http://www.cafepress.com/tnc_audio

I WILL buy one of these if on the back it says...

"Empowered by CHANCE"

Done.

http://www.cafepress.com/tnc_audio.261058265

Small, but cute.

index.php/fa/8717/0/

Terry that is hot!
But... Since you're giving me an inch...

Can you put that on the back of a Green Zipper Hoodie?
OR, if you know what color the pre's will be, that would do too.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on May 02, 2008, 08:32:25 AM

Wow, I I've been gone for a day. Did I miss something??

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: nob turner on May 02, 2008, 12:39:15 PM

does the price drop if we order enough of them?

compasspnt wrote on Thu, 01 May 2008 20:29

http://www.cafepress.com/tnc_audio.261058265

Small, but cute.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on May 02, 2008, 01:18:09 PM

nob turner wrote on Fri, 02 May 2008 09:39

does the price drop if we order enough of them?

compasspnt wrote on Thu, 01 May 2008 20:29

http://www.cafepress.com/tnc_audio.261058265

Small, but cute.

Oh no!! Not another group buy. LOL

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on May 02, 2008, 01:23:32 PM

I don't recall getting to vote on the color of the coffee maker...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on May 02, 2008, 01:28:46 PM

Devin Knutson wrote on Fri, 02 May 2008 10:23

I don't recall getting to vote on the color of the coffee maker...

Don't laugh. Thats the colour we chose for the pre amps (kidding of course)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: duckhunter on May 02, 2008, 03:42:33 PM

This is a phenomena in China:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tuangou

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on May 02, 2008, 04:26:42 PM

So I go to make payment on my 2 orders. I fill out the questions,card # ect, it asks for country and I put in Bahamas then it wants to know what state! Confused

Anyhoo I think I e-mailed the problem in but just in case I put it here also.

Thanks,

Clifford.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: forgotteng on May 02, 2008, 10:56:15 PM

Hey Guys I am trying to log in the user console and it will not let me. I have tried about 10 times. Am I doing something wrong?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on May 03, 2008, 06:31:18 PM

For the benefit of those who have not recieved the mass mail (due to your spam blocker) the payment process has begun

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on May 04, 2008, 10:37:59 PM

hey, i just attempted to pay, and got this error message:

"msxml3.dll error '80070008'

Not enough storage is available to process this command.

/MUSICIANSWORKSHOP/UserConsole/CheckOut.asp, line 70 "

for now, im gonna assume that it did NOT go through, and i'll try again later. let me know if anyone else gets one of these so i know that the original one didnt go through.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on May 05, 2008, 08:26:56 AM

Randy was having trouble with the host. It should be fixed today.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on May 05, 2008, 07:00:39 PM

Copied and pasted from Randy

Do I have a volunteer who wants to be the first to make group buy payment using Online/Virtual Checks?

I'll only need a few... I want to go through it a few times with live transactions before I open it up to everybody...

If you want to be a "beta tester", let me know, and we'll do it via PM or email, either which is convenient for you.

Thanks in advance,

Randy

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: tunetown on May 05, 2008, 07:38:05 PM

Chance wants to know how many Aussie orders are confirmed. Once we get some numbers Chance will talk to the manufacturer to see if it's feasible to ship direct from China.

So, hunt down all the Aussies in this GB and count their order. I'm wondering if we should select 1 forum thread to do this in. At the moment its all over the web.

Cheers

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: tunetown on May 05, 2008, 08:39:43 PM

Can all Aussie group buy participants please go here http://homerecording.com/bbs/showthread.php?t=263421 and post your order for counting.
I have started one thread to make it easier to collate.

Cheers

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on May 06, 2008, 08:42:02 AM

As the payment process is under way, I have been flooded with E-mails and PM's. There is no possible way I can answer all of them. I suggest that anyone with questions, to post them here on the boards, because many of the questions that are asked can be answered by the many who have been involved in the three past group buys. I am going to copy/paste this message in the four forums this topic is running in.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Nick Sevilla on May 06, 2008, 10:43:46 AM

CHANCE wrote on Tue, 06 May 2008 05:42

Hi Chance,

I placed my payment yesterday, and it went great without a hitch. It shows up in my online bank statement, so I know it is working properly.

Looking forward to receiving the ACM's around August, when they should be done.

Thanks for the great Group Buy!!!

Also, after the group buy, I imagine you'll be selling as a regular mfr. That is great. Maybe for X-Mas this year I'll check out some of your mic preamps.

Cheers

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: duckhunter on May 06, 2008, 04:18:50 PM

My card transaction showed up correctly on my bank account.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on May 06, 2008, 10:45:20 PM

There have been several requests that the grille on the 6802 be silver, and not the gold that is shown.

At this moment, I can categorically state that I personally like gold on a microphone even more than I like pink on a mic pre.

We will look into this.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: maxim on May 06, 2008, 10:59:01 PM

please, no gold

it's embarassing...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigbone on May 06, 2008, 11:13:20 PM

compasspnt wrote on Tue, 06 May 2008 22:45

I'm more worry about the sound than about the color....will it sound better
in gold... Smile

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on May 07, 2008, 12:04:26 AM

No.

Gold definitely sounds worse.

It's platinum for me.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: maxim on May 07, 2008, 12:27:45 AM

plutonium's pretty hot...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigbone on May 07, 2008, 10:44:19 AM

compasspnt wrote on Wed, 07 May 2008 00:04

No.

Gold definitely sounds worse.

It's platinum for me.

And how many platinum........or you did stop counting after 500
Laughing

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: SingSing on May 07, 2008, 07:26:10 PM

Sorry if this has been covered previously in this thread....and I do know that the search button is my friend, though it behaves nothing like one.

So,

Is there anywhere where one could read about the characteristics of the mics? I think some of the models were in the last GB, right? Could someone briefly describe the different models.

Cheers,

Stefan
SingSing

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Hallams on May 07, 2008, 10:23:46 PM

SingSing wrote on Thu, 08 May 2008 09:26

Its on Chance's web page

Here is the link
http://www.the-musicians-workshop.com/

just click on Microphones and you get a pic and description of each mic.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on May 08, 2008, 08:25:50 AM

Something from another board

Hey Change, Tom et all UK buyers.

If there was one large shipment to the UK for all orders it would save all of us tons.

And here is how

We Dont use the normal carriers like Ups, Fedex, USPS.. we use a Freight Forwarder.

Chance, you are in Ontario CA right...
We i moved back home to London from LA a little over 2 years ago.

I shipped all of my personal effects through a freight forwarder. I can dig up their info if you like. the shipment took 4-6 weeks (dont remember exactly). it went by sea.

The total cost for the shipment, (and this is 5-6 cubic metres) was just about $2000 USD (about

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on May 08, 2008, 11:28:16 AM

I just saw this banner ad at the top of one of the forum pages. Someone want to check it out??

Overseas Shipping Co.
Wordwide Transportation Via Ocean Air or Ground. Get Fast Free Quotes
http://www.FreightnCrate.com

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: LaLaFaV on May 08, 2008, 01:50:52 PM

compasspnt wrote on Tue, 06 May 2008 19:45

I would've bought one if the grille was silver, but I HATE gold on a mic.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on May 08, 2008, 03:22:47 PM

Yes, Gold is an absolute "no-no" on a microphone.

We are trying hard to get the silver grilles.

Will let everyone know if we find out anything.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: fiasco ( P.M.DuMont ) on May 08, 2008, 05:54:23 PM

Hello folks.

I notice the "donate via PayPal" button in the user console.
Is this for Chance, and hopefully Randy's, benefit?

Sorry if this has been explained before.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: LaLaFaV on May 08, 2008, 06:22:45 PM

Fiasco wrote on Thu, 08 May 2008 14:54

Hello folks.

I notice the "donate via PayPal" button in the user console.
Is this for Chance, and hopefully Randy's, benefit?

Sorry if this has been explained before.

I believe it's basically for Randy because Chance doesn't seem to want the money. I donated a few bucks myself.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: fiasco ( P.M.DuMont ) on May 08, 2008, 06:27:23 PM

LaLaFaV wrote on Thu, 08 May 2008 18:22

... because Chance doesn't seem to want the money.

If thats the case, then Chance is crazy.
I'll send him a damn pie or something.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: littlehat on May 08, 2008, 07:46:04 PM

I made my payment.

Where's my stuff.

Laughing

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cnixon on May 08, 2008, 10:33:53 PM

littlehat wrote on Thu, 08 May 2008 18:46

I made my payment.

Where's my stuff.

Laughing

I have not been a member of this forum, but after reading this had to sign up to say, this is rich!!

Charlie

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: littlehat on May 08, 2008, 11:38:30 PM

Wow!

Make me look good.

Now back to buying piles of chancegear!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Nick Sevilla on May 09, 2008, 11:14:56 AM

compasspnt wrote on Thu, 08 May 2008 12:22

Yes, Gold is an absolute "no-no" on a microphone.

We are trying hard to get the silver grilles.

Will let everyone know if we find out anything.

But what will I do with my "Hip-Hop" clients?

They want a gold EVERYTHING studio.

Maybe I'll buy them a Miley Cyrus studio and spray paint it gold. Yes, that's what I'll do... I'll make a bundle of $$$ with that.

Wink

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on May 09, 2008, 11:39:06 AM

I have recieved quite a few messages asking if I could extend the deadline another week as they get paid on the 15th and want to up their order. At the same time, I want to be sensitive to those who have paid and are paiently waiting. We agreed to extend it till 5-16. With my order and all the verbal orders from friends and engineers here in LA, the quotas have been met for our minimum order. So we're good to go.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Eric H. on May 09, 2008, 02:32:52 PM

hi everyone,

i didn't check this thread until today; i guess it's my lucky day.
I'm up for a couple of 84's and a couple of ribbons.
I'm in Portugal and was thinking maybe there could be a shipping to western Europe directly so we all cut some shipping and air pollution.
Thanks to Chance for setting this up. It's getting bigger and bigger!!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: MagnetoSound on May 09, 2008, 03:35:55 PM

compasspnt wrote on Tue, 11 March 2008 12:17

Chance should confirm, but I

think

the 1200 is this:

"9-Pattern Tube Microphone w/ dual 32mm gold sputtered thin Mylar capsules

-10 dB pad & 80 Hz LF roll off switches

'HAND SELECTED' Russian made 6072A , JJ ECC81 or ECC83 Slovak Republic Tubes"

I did a search, but couldn't find confirmation on this, so sorry if I missed it .... is it definitely a 32mm capsule in the 1200?

In fact, is any of Terry's info incorrect?

Thanks guys,

Dan

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Rader Ranch on May 09, 2008, 04:04:13 PM

Virtual check didn't work for me.....try again in a day or two I guess.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on May 09, 2008, 07:51:41 PM

Update: the 6802 will have a silver grill

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on May 09, 2008, 10:21:20 PM

CHANCE wrote on Fri, 09 May 2008 19:51

Update: the 6802 will have a silver grill

Hooray!

Gold is teh suck.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: LaLaFaV on May 09, 2008, 11:24:59 PM

CHANCE wrote on Fri, 09 May 2008 16:51

Update: the 6802 will have a silver grill

Had I known this was going to happen, I would have added a 6802 to my order. I've already paid, so it's too late for me to add it. The function is disabled in my user console.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigbone on May 10, 2008, 10:29:24 AM

Terry another question.........

Between the 583 and the 6802 for OH'S or drums room......witch one to chooses ?

Thank you
Jean

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Zetajazz44 on May 10, 2008, 06:09:16 PM

Rader Ranch wrote on Fri, 09 May 2008 15:04

Virtual check didn't work for me.....try again in a day or two I guess.

Was it rejected? Was there an error on the page itself??

Just curious as I've not had any reports of errors since a day before you made this post, nor after...and several have paid thus far with virtual check...

Let me know if I can help.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on May 10, 2008, 06:27:12 PM

bigbone wrote on Sat, 10 May 2008 10:29

Terry another question.........

Between the 583 and the 6802 for OH'S or drums room......which one to choose?

I cannot answer with specificity.

But I would tend to surmise that the 6802 would be the one.

I also assume that, along with the silver grille, will come the silver logo...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on May 10, 2008, 06:59:43 PM

MagnetoSound wrote on Fri, 09 May 2008 12:35

compasspnt wrote on Tue, 11 March 2008 12:17

I did a search, but couldn't find confirmation on this, so sorry if I missed it .... is it definitely a 32mm capsule in the 1200?

In fact, is any of Terry's info incorrect?

Thanks guys,

Dan

All that info is correct, but I THINK they are using a 12AY7 (possibly X7) I'll check later.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigbone on May 10, 2008, 10:14:15 PM

compasspnt wrote on Sat, 10 May 2008 18:27

bigbone wrote on Sat, 10 May 2008 10:29

Terry another question.........

Between the 583 and the 6802 for OH'S or drums room......which one to choose?

I cannot answer with specificity.

But I would tend to surmise that the 6802 would be the one.

I also assume that, along with the silver grille, will come the silver logo...

Thank you Terry...i will check those out......

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on May 11, 2008, 04:00:27 PM

All paid up. 6 pres and 14 mics. I figured I'd keep the ones I like and sell the rest. Or maybe just keep them all. I do like the idea of modding some of them to higher specs, I hope there will be some community energy on this subject, as I'm pretty handy with a solder gun but aren't able to read schematics.
I'm a little bit scared of the shipping costs though. I've had so many ridiculous experiences in the past with shipping to Canada from the US.
Big thanks Chance and Randy for the opportunity to participate.
Pete

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on May 11, 2008, 06:22:50 PM

5 days left (3 to register)
These prices are like going back in time. LOL

I only wish the price on the pump in my yard was the same at the station.

index.php/fa/8819/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on May 12, 2008, 07:13:32 AM

Chance,
Would you venture a guestimate at an ETA?
Sorry Embarassed

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on May 12, 2008, 09:42:37 AM

Well, only a few days left and this group buy will be closed for this year. Our quotas have been met and the order will be placed next week. In the future we might try something a little different, if not, we'll do another group buy (#5) next year.

Someone sent me this link for shipping across the pond for you guys to check out.

Hi Chance,
in a German forum I heard about "yankit". This could turn out to be a little bit cheaper than USPS or UPS...
http://www.yankit.de/page.php?page=rates1

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on May 12, 2008, 03:52:58 PM

Chance,
Any idea if the massive 7.9 earthquake has affected any of your partners in China?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: LaLaFaV on May 12, 2008, 04:54:05 PM

zmix wrote on Mon, 12 May 2008 12:52

Chance,
Any idea if the massive 7.9 earthquake has affected any of your partners in China?

I was wondering the same thing.
Such a tragedy...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on May 12, 2008, 06:49:20 PM

zmix wrote on Mon, 12 May 2008 15:52

Chance,
Any idea if the massive 7.9 earthquake has affected any of your partners in China?

The factory(s) is(are) several hundred miles to the northeast. Reports were that buildings there swayed, but no real damage in the area.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: tunetown on May 12, 2008, 07:19:14 PM

Tragic. How fragile we all are when mother gets cranky.

Sad

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on May 12, 2008, 08:47:28 PM

CHANCE wrote on Sun, 11 May 2008 15:22

5 days left (3 to register)
These prices are like going back in time. LOL

I only wish the price on the pump in my yard was the same at the station.

index.php/fa/8819/0/

I thought for sure someone with photo-chops would have already replaced the 76 with TnC LOL

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on May 12, 2008, 08:57:06 PM

Expensive petrol there.

I remember my Dad driving across the border to buy it in Mexico for under 19 cents a gallon.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on May 12, 2008, 09:48:00 PM

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 12 May 2008 17:47

I thought for sure someone with photo-chops would have already replaced the 76 with TnC LOL

Sorry... didn't mean to slack off there.

index.php/fa/8833/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Zetajazz44 on May 13, 2008, 12:44:00 AM

Hi All:

Just wanted to let you know that on May 13, 2008 at 1:00am EDT, the provider of the payment gateway will be performing scheduled maintenance.

If you attempt payment during these times, you may get an error.

Thanks,

Randy
Zetajazz44

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on May 13, 2008, 08:20:05 AM

Devin Knutson wrote on Mon, 12 May 2008 18:48

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 12 May 2008 17:47

I thought for sure someone with photo-chops would have already replaced the 76 with TnC LOL

Sorry... didn't mean to slack off there.

index.php/fa/8833/0/

LOL made my day

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on May 13, 2008, 07:00:35 PM

In a never ending quest to get the best rates, something came to mind. The point of origin. Is it me? Or is it China. For me to ship to you,, it would originate with me,, yes? Almost everything you buy today comes from China, so if I buy a mic from Guitar center that is made in China,, to me, the sale originates at Guitar center.
TnC is an American company and with the NAFTA agreements, there is no duty with products originating in the USA to Canada. Can someone clear this up?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigbone on May 14, 2008, 09:58:03 AM

i did talk about that with the canadian custom in the last group buy ( i'm canadian )
and in canada there is no duty on microphone that are buy in the USA , but the microphone got to be made, or part made in the usa....

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on May 14, 2008, 10:01:07 AM

ARGGHHHHH!

I know the above message from Chance is WAY more important. I'm not just passing over it... I have NO idea and can't comment.

I'm trying to change my original answer on the test here. Always go with your first instinct?

The two pre-73's are a given, but I was also in for a couple of mics (ribbons). I was down for one ACM-3... all of the sudden, the ACM-70's turned me on and I realized I wanted a pair of someting. Somebody get me to breathe in the brown bag and tell me it will be okay. Confused

The ACM-3's seem to be perfect for the electric guitar/flipped around on the backside acoustic guitar.

But I started thinking the 70's might be cool out in front of a kit, room, or even a vocal too. More application possibilities?

Any thoughts?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on May 14, 2008, 10:05:51 AM

Are you saying "you want to change your order"?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on May 14, 2008, 10:08:03 AM

No. Well... yes. I'm paying today. (I thought we could change up until payment).

If it's not Kosher... I'll go w/ my first choice (or just add 1).

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on May 14, 2008, 10:13:54 AM

J-Texas wrote on Wed, 14 May 2008 07:08

No. Well... yes. I'm paying today. (I thought we could change up until payment).

If it's not Kosher... I'll go w/ my first choice (or just add 1).

Yes, you can change up until you pay

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on May 14, 2008, 10:14:46 AM

Well, while I've got you on the line... Rolling Eyes

What would you say about my dilemma? YIKES.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on May 14, 2008, 10:30:42 AM

Thats a hard call. I will say that I am in for a pair of the 70's myself. They have a different appearence, almost like a condensor and I expect yet another color for the palete. Many of the ribbons use the same motor but the inside headbasket area seems to affect the charactor of these ribbons a lot. Your call

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on May 14, 2008, 10:34:15 AM

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 14 May 2008 09:30

Thank you Chance. That was EXACTLY where I was going. Plus, it seems like it can take a few more dB with less distortion. I have a funny feeling about the 70. I'm getting 2!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on May 14, 2008, 10:37:26 AM

Cool. After we get them, we can compare notes.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on May 14, 2008, 10:41:23 AM

Hmmm...

I 100% ignored the 70 because of the gold grille (again)...not to mention the white body.

What do you think about the possibility of these being decent looking (no gold, at least)?

How about black or silver body, silver grille? Would they do that as well Chance?

http://www.tnc-audio.com

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on May 14, 2008, 10:42:43 AM

I had already envisioned removing the grill and spray painting it a flat black!!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on May 14, 2008, 10:44:02 AM

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 14 May 2008 09:37

Cool. After we get them, we can compare notes.

I absolutely cannot wait for this. It's like Christmas is only 3 months away! Very Happy

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on May 14, 2008, 10:47:26 AM

Actually, unlike the 6802, the white/gold did not look as gawdy in real life. They had a "unique look" to them. I am sure they would do a black/silver combo.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Zetajazz44 on May 14, 2008, 10:48:10 AM

compasspnt wrote on Wed, 14 May 2008 09:41

I recorded another vocal last night using the ACM-6802T, and liked it very much...

I was telling my "studio friend" that a lot of people didn't like the gold grille on that mic either...he agreed that he didn't particularly care for it either, but after 2 vocal records, and liking both of them, I can live with the gold grille! Laughing

Randy
Zetajazz44

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on May 14, 2008, 12:59:33 PM

I cannot live with gold grilles on a microphone.

I have used my C12VR a few times, but much less than I might do, because I can't stand seeing the gold out there.

Now, fortunately, I am modifying that mic, and at the same time, changing to an old C12 grille.

White is tacky as well.

We would all be better off if they can change...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: MagnetoSound on May 14, 2008, 02:00:04 PM

Why can't these mics be nickel?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on May 14, 2008, 02:13:26 PM

OK. They'll be ordered in black, but MINE will be white.LOL
I was thinking as a prop for photos. Picture a fine babe behind this white mic whith a white pop filter!! LOL

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on May 14, 2008, 02:21:47 PM

You guys are funny. I was stoked about white.

but... whatever works! Surprised

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on May 14, 2008, 05:53:26 PM

Well, don't change the white just because of me, if everyone else likes it.

In fact, white with black grille...??

But the gold, that's another matter...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on May 14, 2008, 09:46:23 PM

Hey, I got my first piece of TNC gear already!
index.php/fa/8855/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on May 14, 2008, 09:52:48 PM

AWESOME!

The first known public shirt.

Congratulations.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Hallams on May 14, 2008, 11:07:28 PM

I'm getting this error message when i try to pay by credit card here in Oz. I have PM'd and emailed Chance and Zetajazz44.

msxml3.dll error '80070008'
Not enough storage is available to process this command.
/MUSICIANSWORKSHOP/UserConsole/CheckOut.asp, line 71

Any one else having this trouble?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Zetajazz44 on May 15, 2008, 12:53:53 AM

Hallams wrote on Wed, 14 May 2008 22:07

Guys, group buy payment seems to be back up and working again...

Sorry about all of these XML Parser errors, but I have no control over them... It's server errors, not something in the code...and it seems that the web host don't think it's a big deal and make no effort for a long term fix for this problem...

BTW, when you attempt payment and you get this error, the payment "went nowhere", so you won't be double billed...

Thanks,

Randy
Zetajazz44

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Hallams on May 15, 2008, 01:02:19 AM

Randy to the rescue again. What a man!
Next time you are in Melbourne be sure to let me know and i'll buy you a beer or two....you too Chance, Terry too....alright..... whenever any of you lot travel down under, you might as well let us know and we will go shooting Kangaroo..........just kidding, a beer or two will do...whatever works!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on May 15, 2008, 03:51:10 AM

compasspnt wrote on Wed, 14 May 2008 18:52

AWESOME!

The first known public shirt.

Congratulations.

Thanks! I'm not taking it off 'til my gear comes.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: MagnetoSound on May 15, 2008, 04:10:42 AM

Just don't forget to get that Rockwool covered up. Wink

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on May 15, 2008, 11:29:49 AM

ONE MORE DAY! (I thought it would never come) Over the weekend I will be totaling up everything, then submitting it to the manufacturer. I expect to have the invoice (from the manufacturer) by mid-week. Then the funds get transfered. Once that is complete, they build and we wait. I'll keep everyone posted on the progress. I might even ask them for some digipix that I can post.
I'll be board-hoping today and tomorrow to answer any last minute questions.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on May 15, 2008, 11:41:12 AM

I hope the manufacturer hasn't been affected by the earthquake. They're talking 400 dams with cracks in them now. Doesn't sound good at all.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on May 15, 2008, 11:44:33 AM

Les Ismore wrote on Thu, 15 May 2008 08:41

I hope the manufacturer hasn't been affected by the earthquake. They're talking 400 dams with cracks in them now. Doesn't sound good at all.

I might give them a call tonight

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Tom L on May 15, 2008, 01:05:03 PM

Payment made. No glitches to report. woo-hoo

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on May 15, 2008, 01:34:35 PM

Berolzheimer wrote on Thu, 15 May 2008 00:51

compasspnt wrote on Wed, 14 May 2008 18:52

AWESOME!

The first known public shirt.

Congratulations.

Thanks! I'm not taking it off 'til my gear comes.

Do please see the recent "personal hygene in the studio" thread.

http://recforums.prosoundweb.com/index.php/t/23151/16987/

Razz

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on May 15, 2008, 01:44:35 PM

Devin Knutson wrote on Thu, 15 May 2008 10:34

Berolzheimer wrote on Thu, 15 May 2008 00:51

compasspnt wrote on Wed, 14 May 2008 18:52

AWESOME!

The first known public shirt.

Congratulations.

Thanks! I'm not taking it off 'til my gear comes.

Do please see the recent "personal hygene in the studio" thread.

http://recforums.prosoundweb.com/index.php/t/23151/16987/

Razz

I never read threads that don't mention the Beatles, Neve or Hitler.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on May 15, 2008, 01:49:37 PM

MagnetoSound wrote on Thu, 15 May 2008 01:10

Just don't forget to get that Rockwool covered up. Wink

Yeah, my current studio's pretty new & I'm still tweaking things a bit. I'm still making adjustments to the absorbers, & the CPU & drives under the desk are going out to the storage shed/machine room, and the messy pile of stuff on the desk will find a home somewhere....

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: MagnetoSound on May 15, 2008, 03:06:40 PM

Berolzheimer wrote on Thu, 15 May 2008 18:44

I never read threads that don't mention the Beatles, Neve or Hitler.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Tomas Danko on May 15, 2008, 03:15:42 PM

Berolzheimer wrote on Thu, 15 May 2008 18:44

Devin Knutson wrote on Thu, 15 May 2008 10:34

Berolzheimer wrote on Thu, 15 May 2008 00:51

compasspnt wrote on Wed, 14 May 2008 18:52

AWESOME!

The first known public shirt.

Congratulations.

Thanks! I'm not taking it off 'til my gear comes.

Do please see the recent "personal hygene in the studio" thread.

http://recforums.prosoundweb.com/index.php/t/23151/16987/

Razz

I never read threads that don't mention the Beatles, Neve or Hitler.

Then you're going to love this one!

http://recforums.prosoundweb.com/index.php/t/23245/2699/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rankus on May 15, 2008, 05:24:29 PM

Hallams wrote on Wed, 14 May 2008 22:02

let us know and we will go shooting Kangaroo..........

Real men use a Bowie knife mate!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigbone on May 15, 2008, 05:39:00 PM

Hey guys quick question

i did try today <<another brand similar microphone>> that looks like the 1200
and i like the tone of it for some OH'S duty.....will the 1200 be close to that mic?

Thank you

EDITED BY MODERATOR TO REMOVE BRAND NAME

(There are many similarities in several of these brands of mics...)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on May 15, 2008, 06:29:58 PM

Payment sent, no glitches! Very Happy

Now I just have to deal with my GAS pains...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Hallams on May 15, 2008, 06:56:56 PM

rankus wrote on Fri, 16 May 2008 07:24

Hallams wrote on Wed, 14 May 2008 22:02

let us know and we will go shooting Kangaroo..........

Real men use a Bowie knife mate!

Nah! Those fellas used to use spears.... a few still do.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: maxim on May 15, 2008, 07:07:57 PM

woomeras, to be precise

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Woomera_(spear-thrower)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Hallams on May 15, 2008, 07:35:51 PM

maxim wrote on Fri, 16 May 2008 09:07

woomeras, to be precise

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Woomera_(spear-thrower)

You are right Maxim....spears with a woomera. Its an interesting detail to know about. "The most efficient spear throwing device ever". Quite a technological innovation to their weaponry for a people who are too often thought of by the paradigm of primitive.

( and spell check can't cope with the word woomera. I love it when that happens )

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: tunetown on May 15, 2008, 07:36:02 PM

"That's not a knife"

Cool

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Hallams on May 15, 2008, 07:41:51 PM

SORRY ABOUT THAT ... YOU'VE JUST BEEN HIT... by a woomera?.....er no that was a spear!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on May 15, 2008, 07:43:46 PM

Paid. No glitches. Prompt email confirmation.

Awesome!

Now the hard part... tic-tok - tic-tok... <sigh>

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigbone on May 15, 2008, 08:16:29 PM

bigbone wrote on Thu, 15 May 2008 17:39

Thank you, you just answer my question... Smile

)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: maxim on May 15, 2008, 08:30:17 PM

""Quite a technological innovation to their weaponry for a people who are too often thought of by the paradigm of primitive."

i don't think i'd like to be hit with a woomera, they're as chunky as a nulla nulla

one time, when i was working in maninigrida, in arnhem land, there was an equivalent of a psycho gunman standoff, when a ranting old man stood in the middle of the village with a "loaded" woomera, slowly turning around

i've never seen people move so fast

mind you, i found a wall quick sticks myself...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on May 16, 2008, 08:50:00 AM

I didn't get a chance to call the manufacturer yesterday due to answering the many last minute E-mails and PM's. I did, however, send them a quick E-mail. Here is their response:

"Mr Chance
How are you reciently? You are fine. I sent your colour sample to our engineering division. Our earthquake was good. Many much far from us. We are happy. I will contact you tomorrow about colour."

LOL that was a word for word quote

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on May 16, 2008, 10:05:56 AM

CHANCE wrote on Fri, 16 May 2008 07:50

As hilarious as that is... I couldn't say one thing in Chinese! Embarassed

(Americans. Rolling Eyes

)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on May 16, 2008, 10:18:53 AM

Believe it or not, it is easier and more understandable to communicate with them in text, than it is speaking to them.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on May 16, 2008, 10:22:08 AM

CHANCE wrote on Fri, 16 May 2008 09:18

Believe it or not, it is easier and more understandable to communicate with them in text, than it is speaking to them.

Amen to that. I've sold a lot of country jingles to the Japanese. Good fun. Cool people.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on May 16, 2008, 10:23:26 AM

I just watched the news,what a mess in China.
We have so much to be thankful for.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on May 16, 2008, 10:23:59 AM

PM's I am getting about the 70 all say, anything but gold.

Black seems poplar, and of course silver/nickle.

White appears acceptable, as long as no gold.

To colour way out of the lines, how about white body (black logo) with black grille?

Too crazy?

And when they eliminate gold, hopefully they know to make the logos non-gold as well...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on May 16, 2008, 10:28:59 AM

compasspnt wrote on Fri, 16 May 2008 09:23

To colour way out of the lines, how about white body (black logo) with black grille?

Too crazy?

No BS here. Man, that's my vote if I have one. I was really stoked about white. Who wants another silver mic?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on May 16, 2008, 02:21:01 PM

J-Texas wrote on Fri, 16 May 2008 07:05

CHANCE wrote on Fri, 16 May 2008 07:50

As hilarious as that is... I couldn't say one thing in Chinese! Embarassed

(Americans. Rolling Eyes

)

How are you? You are fine. This cracked me up.

Last time I said this in a bar, I think I got slapped...

...by my wife. ba-dum-bump!

Seriously, I deal with folks in Korea and India all the time, and email is definately the way to go. We seem to be able to suss out what each other mean that way. Otherwise it always turns into a 20 minute festival of "what?" "what?" "what?"

Q: What do you call a person who speaks two languages?
A: Bilingual

Q: What do you call a person who speaks three languages?
A: Trilingual

Q: What do you call a person who speaks only one language?
A: American

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Zetajazz44 on May 16, 2008, 10:07:37 PM

Here's my ACM-6802T after installing a Telefunken ECC88 tube and removing the GOLD from the grille and polishing it back to a shine... I also removed the inner-screen from the grille as well...

https://www.n344rb.com/MUSICIANSWORKSHOP/images/ECC88.jpg

https://www.n344rb.com/MUSICIANSWORKSHOP/images/ACM6802T_Silver.jpg

Randy
Zetajazz44

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on May 16, 2008, 10:40:41 PM

Zetajazz44 wrote on Fri, 16 May 2008 19:07

Here's my ACM-6802T after installing a Telefunken ECC88 tube and removing the GOLD from the grille and polishing it back to a shine... I also removed the inner-screen from the grille as well...

Randy
Zetajazz44

And how's it sound?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Zetajazz44 on May 16, 2008, 11:14:08 PM

Berolzheimer wrote on Fri, 16 May 2008 21:40

Zetajazz44 wrote on Fri, 16 May 2008 19:07

And how's it sound?

Don't know yet.. Just made these changes a while ago, and I've not even had it plugged in yet...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: nob turner on May 16, 2008, 11:58:52 PM

no doubt it sounds vastly superior to the gold one... Rolling Eyes

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: thinman on May 17, 2008, 02:31:54 AM

nob turner wrote on Fri, 16 May 2008 22:58

no doubt it sounds vastly superior to the gold one... Rolling Eyes

Hmm...I've always thought you had to have gold mics to make gold records. Maybe I need to rethink my whole mic collection.

Title: Group Buy Payment
Post by: Zetajazz44 on May 17, 2008, 02:36:30 AM

Hi All:

Well, finally, tonight, was the end of the group buy payment... and all appeared to have gone very smoothly...

I want to remind everyone that paid, PLEASE log into the User Console and make sure that you are marked as PAID. If you paid, and are not marked as so, please send an email to GBPaymentProblems@n344rb.com with the information of the transaction that you should have received in an email receipt after you paid.

Again, PLEASE, everyone that paid, PLEASE log into the User Console and make sure that you are marked as PAID.

Thanks in advance,

Randy
Zetajazz44

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: thinman on May 17, 2008, 02:42:58 AM

Zetajazz44 wrote on Fri, 16 May 2008 22:14

Berolzheimer wrote on Fri, 16 May 2008 21:40

Zetajazz44 wrote on Fri, 16 May 2008 19:07

And how's it sound?

Don't know yet.. Just made these changes a while ago, and I've not even had it plugged in yet...

What was the process to remove the gold? Also, please keep us posted on how it sounds. I added one to my order tonight at the last minute, so now it's personal.

I paid tonight and everything worked perfectly. Good work, Randy.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: thinman on May 17, 2008, 03:10:27 AM

compasspnt wrote on Fri, 16 May 2008 09:23

I actually like that combination very much. Perhaps the white could be ever so slightly in the direction of cream just to give the color a bit of warmth. Stark white frequently seems to look a little cheap or cold, in just my opinion, of course.

.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Tomas Danko on May 17, 2008, 06:28:17 AM

thinman wrote on Sat, 17 May 2008 07:31

nob turner wrote on Fri, 16 May 2008 22:58

no doubt it sounds vastly superior to the gold one... Rolling Eyes

Hmm...I've always thought you had to have gold mics to make gold records. Maybe I need to rethink my whole mic collection.

Nah, you just need to put your trousers on one leg at the time.

And use more cowbell.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Nick Sevilla on May 18, 2008, 12:40:05 AM

Tomas Danko wrote on Sat, 17 May 2008 03:28

thinman wrote on Sat, 17 May 2008 07:31

nob turner wrote on Fri, 16 May 2008 22:58

no doubt it sounds vastly superior to the gold one... Rolling Eyes

Hmm...I've always thought you had to have gold mics to make gold records. Maybe I need to rethink my whole mic collection.

Nah, you just need to put your trousers on one leg at the time.

And use more cowbell.

For the last time:

It HAS to be a GOLD COWBELL!!! Through a GOLD mic!!! Through GOLD wire!!! To a GOLD console!!! with GOLD speakers!!!

Or no GOLD record for you...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on May 18, 2008, 12:42:27 AM

This is why I prefer platinum.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Tom L on May 18, 2008, 09:24:05 PM

are we there yet?
index.php/fa/8903/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Zetajazz44 on May 18, 2008, 11:17:33 PM

nob turner wrote on Fri, 16 May 2008 22:58

no doubt it sounds vastly superior to the gold one... Rolling Eyes

I doubt it will sound any better... Razz

It's more along the lines of "Why did the chicken cross the road?".......To prove to the opossum it could be done!

I just done it to show that the gold could be removed...and rather easily too!

Randy

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on May 19, 2008, 12:25:29 PM

Just a little update. I will be making the funds xfer tomorrow. It is now confirmed that the xfrmrs in the pre amps will NOT be China made.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Crash on May 19, 2008, 01:46:49 PM

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 19 May 2008 11:25

Just a little update. I will be making the funds xfer tomorrow. It is now confirmed that the xfrmrs in the pre amps will NOT be China made.

What does this mean in regards to transformers? What will they be?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Roger Langvik on May 19, 2008, 02:41:17 PM

Great news!

I'm having terrible GAS from just ordering one pair Shocked

of microphones, but this certainly livens up the day.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on May 20, 2008, 08:28:11 AM

I am still searching for solutions for better rates shipping out side of the USA. I haven't forgotten about you guys and
I found something called "postal consolidation". This is where several packages are shipped to another country (as one shippment) then disbursed in that country. I should have more information next week.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: ScotcH on May 20, 2008, 04:46:59 PM

CHANCE wrote on Tue, 13 May 2008 19:00

As long as it does not say "made in China" anywhere on it, then no sweat ... it will pass a USA product. I've dealt with customs many times, and they just look for the "made in xxx" part, if at all. Just put Origin as USA, and we'll all save 6%

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on May 20, 2008, 08:11:22 PM

Everything must be above board. Anything less is not acceptable. Perhaps they can leave the knobs off, then they can be assembled in the USA (only kidding)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: jetbase on May 20, 2008, 08:29:08 PM

Just thought I'd share some info that may be helpful for any Aussie buyers:

- USFTA only applies to goods completely manufactured in USA, with the materials used in manufacture sourced in USA as well.
- Microphones are duty free in Australia anyway, regardless of where they're made, but subject to 10% GST.
- Any shipment that arrives in Australia and is valued at AUD1000 or less is not subject to any duty or GST.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Crash on May 21, 2008, 11:06:15 AM

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 19 May 2008 11:25

Just a little update. I will be making the funds xfer tomorrow. It is now confirmed that the xfrmrs in the pre amps will NOT be China made.

I am getting confused over this Xfmr issue. Are these the same as what you heard in the prototypes or not? Between this statement and another statement or two over on GS, well I am not sure I am following what is noteworthy over this? Not trying to be a jerk, just looking for clarification...sometimes you have to talk slower and louder for me. Razz

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on May 21, 2008, 11:38:05 AM

Crash wrote on Wed, 21 May 2008 08:06

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 19 May 2008 11:25

Just a little update. I will be making the funds xfer tomorrow. It is now confirmed that the xfrmrs in the pre amps will NOT be China made.

Yes EVERYTHING is the same as the prototypes that we tried, heard, and approved.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Crash on May 21, 2008, 11:41:17 AM

OK, thanks for the clarification. It is gonna be like mid year christmas once these animals arrive.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on May 21, 2008, 12:00:13 PM

Yres it will. When we had them made, we wanted to see what THEIR build quality was. I am stoked that they saw to it to use quality xfrmrs and pots which they are out-sourcing

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on May 27, 2008, 09:02:00 AM

GASP!!
I finally came up for some air. Well everything is ordered and paid for and manufacturing has begun. There was quite a bit of communication problems with various subjects. I got so frustrated that I ended up speaking with them and that was worse. They would tell me something that I didn't understand and I would say "huh?" Then they would reply "so sorry Mr Chance we no understand huh"
Any way the ACM-300 was reciently purchased by a name brand as an exclusive. (I wonder who LOL) Because there was not enough time to get back to everyone, I substituted the ACM-200 FET ribbon mic. The price was almost the same and if the 200 is not desired, I will refund your cost of the 300. Someone pointed out that comparing the resale value of the 200 vs the value of a refund, you will still be ahead because you could sell the 200 for more than the refund. Your call. The pre amps will be dark bronze brushed aluminum in colour. I mentioned that "the xfrmrs are not made in China" I might be wrong. They mentioned that "they do not make the xfrmrs and out source them" and I assumed that ment that they imported them. When I cornered and asked them, they said "so sorry, confidential" This is typical with all the new "confidential agreements" with manufacturers not to reveal sources. This is no doubt a result of us revealing (in past group buys) who actually manufactures the brand name mics. I'll continue to update as news comes in.
Oh yeah about the "announcment" we're going to wait until our ship comes in to get things in place.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: btfnk on May 27, 2008, 11:12:35 AM

Thanks for the update!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on May 27, 2008, 12:58:20 PM

CHANCE wrote on Tue, 27 May 2008 06:02

It just occurs to me, a little late I guess, that I have a friend here who would probably happily act as interpreter if it helped him get some good cheap mics....Oh well maybe for the next round. PM me Chance if you want his help in the meantime, he'd probably do it even if he's not in on this one.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on May 27, 2008, 01:03:51 PM

Yes for future products that might be a help. Thank you.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on May 29, 2008, 09:48:18 AM

hey chance, just wanted to say thanks AGAIN for doing this. i cant imagine the level of stress this kind of thing would bring on. youre a champ.

***(wonders if i should have ordered 10 more condenser mics)***

rj

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on May 29, 2008, 11:26:40 AM

<-- Far more interested in the preamp than the drama.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Crash on May 29, 2008, 11:40:01 AM

willowhaus wrote on Thu, 29 May 2008 10:26

<-- Far more interested in the preamp than the drama.

......me too.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on May 29, 2008, 01:02:33 PM

From what little I can surmise, having neither seen nor heard the preamps at all (except one photograph of the insides), certain people who may be threatened in some way by this little Group Buy are saying some things that may have little elements of truth involved.

As far as I am concerned, I agree with you two guys...let's just wait and see what we get.

We all knew this was a low priced, low risk investment. If we get something great, wow! If we get something usable, OK. If we get something less than stellar, then we had fun, and we tried.

All Group Buys are a low cost gamble, until we see the products. I have been happy with most of the microphones so far.

As this Forum, in contrast to some others, is populated by more professionals, we will have none of the hysteria.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: GrahameD on May 29, 2008, 03:32:27 PM

compasspnt wrote on Thu, 29 May 2008 13:02

As this Forum, in contrast to some others, is populated by more professionals, we will have none of the hysteria.

... and every day I appreciate this place more.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on May 29, 2008, 04:17:21 PM

GrahameD wrote on Thu, 29 May 2008 12:32

compasspnt wrote on Thu, 29 May 2008 13:02

As this Forum, in contrast to some others, is populated by more professionals, we will have none of the hysteria.

... and every day I appreciate this place more.

Yep. After Chance's email I popped over to GS to see what he was reacting to, sheesh.
So much more reasonable over here.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on May 29, 2008, 05:13:47 PM

Berolzheimer wrote on Thu, 29 May 2008 13:17

GrahameD wrote on Thu, 29 May 2008 12:32

compasspnt wrote on Thu, 29 May 2008 13:02

As this Forum, in contrast to some others, is populated by more professionals, we will have none of the hysteria.

... and every day I appreciate this place more.

Yep. After Chance's email I popped over to GS to see what he was reacting to, sheesh.
So much more reasonable over here.

I did the same thing. I just read the entire thread over at "that" place, and "sheesh" is a good word for it.

Possibly "feck" works as well.

Funny how we automatically knew exactly where to go to find this kind of crap, eh?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on May 29, 2008, 06:09:30 PM

Gee, I thought we were supposed to be getting some real 1073's and C12's with this GB. My bad. Embarassed

Maybe in the next run we can do a GB from a US (or even better European) based boutique shop... Shocked

Looking forward to delivery when the goods arrive! More tools in the box. Twisted Evil

Thanks Chance!
Cheers,
j

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: retro1 on May 29, 2008, 06:23:51 PM

Devin Knutson wrote on Thu, 29 May 2008 16:13

Berolzheimer wrote on Thu, 29 May 2008 13:17

GrahameD wrote on Thu, 29 May 2008 12:32

compasspnt wrote on Thu, 29 May 2008 13:02

As this Forum, in contrast to some others, is populated by more professionals, we will have none of the hysteria.

... and every day I appreciate this place more.

Yep. After Chance's email I popped over to GS to see what he was reacting to, sheesh.
So much more reasonable over here.

I read this forum on and off, and I highly doubt it would have stayed reasonable, if out of the blue, a distributor had posted the same content here, aggressively insisting everything your well regarded moderator and his compadre had said about the preamps was a lie, questioning their very character, and challenging their integrity.

One only needs to revisit various threads of far less relevance on this forum to check back into reality.
It's great to see none of that here, but skip the pretentious bs.

Peace

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on May 29, 2008, 06:50:31 PM

Devin Knutson wrote on Fri, 30 May 2008 07:13

Funny how we automatically knew exactly where to go to find this kind of crap, eh?

Ditto here. Where else would that sort of rubbish come from. It's amazing how quickly a lie with a bit of hysteria can become 'truth'.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on May 29, 2008, 09:51:48 PM

retro1 wrote on Thu, 29 May 2008 18:23

Devin Knutson wrote on Thu, 29 May 2008 16:13

Berolzheimer wrote on Thu, 29 May 2008 13:17

GrahameD wrote on Thu, 29 May 2008 12:32

compasspnt wrote on Thu, 29 May 2008 13:02

As this Forum, in contrast to some others, is populated by more professionals, we will have none of the hysteria.

... and every day I appreciate this place more.

Yep. After Chance's email I popped over to GS to see what he was reacting to, sheesh.
So much more reasonable over here.

It is very reasonable, most of the time, with the possible exception of some political exchanges. One reason for this is the requirement that everyone put their real names in their profiles.

I don't believe I got yours, by the way...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: retro1 on May 30, 2008, 12:27:44 AM

Leto II wrote on Thu, 29 May 2008 20:51

retro1 wrote on Thu, 29 May 2008 18:23

Devin Knutson wrote on Thu, 29 May 2008 16:13

Berolzheimer wrote on Thu, 29 May 2008 13:17

GrahameD wrote on Thu, 29 May 2008 12:32

compasspnt wrote on Thu, 29 May 2008 13:02

As this Forum, in contrast to some others, is populated by more professionals, we will have none of the hysteria.

... and every day I appreciate this place more.

Yep. After Chance's email I popped over to GS to see what he was reacting to, sheesh.
So much more reasonable over here.

It is absolutely reasonable most of the time, but to suggest it would be above hostility in the face of direct accusations against your main man T, is absurd. You lucked out, in that he didn't have the cojones to bring it here.
GS is a mess regardless of the subject, so there's no argument this is a far classier place if you want a forum to call home.

And by the way, you're right, you didn't get mine...
I'm aware of the code here. I could tell you anything, and you wouldn't know the difference anyway, so why bother being predictable about it. No cheap shots were taken so you really don't have an issue.
I won't be posting again, so you can rest easy.

Peace

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: tarnationsauce on May 30, 2008, 08:50:56 PM

Unconfirmed Schematics for the 797 73 (may be different than ACM version).

http://img46.imageshack.us/img46/2585/scem73gd2yg0.jpg
http://img91.imageshack.us/img91/2471/scem73wv9fi2.png

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on June 04, 2008, 09:24:12 PM

Okay. We can't just sit here until August... so.

I'll put my pp on the choppin' block.

My name is Jason, and I've never owned a ribbon mic.

What are some things that I will need TO do and NOT do to keep these mics in tip-top shape/

Some ribbons boast being able to take high SPL's (considering you don't blast it with air). Is this the case with most?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: seedyunderbelly.com on June 05, 2008, 08:25:13 AM

J-Texas wrote on Wed, 04 June 2008 20:24

Ribbons do not seem to be as strong/resistant as people sometimes claim. I have seen Royer 121's blow on guitars many times countless M160 and Rca and Coles.

Safe to say Use Xtra caution.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on June 05, 2008, 10:04:44 AM

Can't speak for everyone's experience with ribbons, but I own a very small collection of Royer's, AEA's, Beyers and Beyer's with RCA mods.

Short of direct air blasts from some dumb ass thinking it's a good idea to blow into them before you have the screen in place, they hold up very well to all claimed SPL specs. Even on the outside of kick drums with care. Something like the Diablo (which I've never tried) has mad SPL capabilities.

Not saying they haven't blown, cause they do, but I've had them in front of extremely loud sources with no problems. I'm speaking of the modern ribbons btw.

Sorry about hijacking the tread here.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on June 05, 2008, 11:46:41 AM

Dan-O wrote on Thu, 05 June 2008 10:04

I've got a pair of AEA R92's that I often use on a gtr cab... Have not had any problems with it. I also use them for acoustics and sometimes vocals. The vocal capability is often not "present" enough but it does sound very "natural" as far as voice goes for my tastes.

I've tried them for OH's but have ended switching them out for something else on each occasion

I'm looking forward to comparing my R92's to the ACMP-900 for all sources. I expect them to be very different because the 900 is a tube ribbon. Smile

I would be interested in trying the R92 (and the 900) outside a kick but would also be nervous about damaging the ribbon element.

Any practical pointers to follow when placing a ribbon on a kick to prevent damage to the ribbon? ie; don't point it towards the spot where the air comes flying out, use a pop-filter, distance, etc...

Cheers,
j

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on June 05, 2008, 12:30:43 PM

CHANCE wrote on Tue, 27 May 2008 09:02

...The pre amps will be dark bronze brushed aluminum in colour. I mentioned that "the xfrmrs are not made in China" I might be wrong. They mentioned that "they do not make the xfrmrs and out source them" ...

I hope that the lettering is a visible color!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on June 05, 2008, 03:09:26 PM

I think the lettering is dark bronze as well.

Or maybe not.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on June 05, 2008, 03:24:21 PM

...what color is the sound?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on June 05, 2008, 03:25:49 PM

0dbfs wrote on Thu, 05 June 2008 11:46

Dan-O wrote on Thu, 05 June 2008 10:04

Yep the 900 looks really promising. And from the files and chatter I've heard here and there the ACM-3 should prove fun as well.

Haven't used the R84 on kick, but the R121 about 2-3 ft out slightly facing downward to avoid the possible blast has sounded great if the room does. You get a lot kit in it which may or may not be what you want.

I would imagine that the R84 would be great as well. It has slightly better low-end extension IMO. The preamp is going to play a role as well of course.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on June 05, 2008, 03:44:01 PM

Dan-O wrote on Thu, 05 June 2008 15:25

I've been using the R92 with an LA610 (because of the variable Z mic switch).

I usually use an omni U89 for the Kick/Room mic through an API 3124. I'll try the R92 in that position next time around placed accordingly.

I'm hoping that the 900 will work well in that type of application although if I like it on a kit I will have wished that I ordered two of them (something had to get the cut!). That was the only ribbon I ordered this go around (I chose to focus on the tube condensers for some reason). Maybe a couple more next time around.

Cheers,
j

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on June 05, 2008, 08:36:18 PM

C.Cash wrote on Thu, 05 June 2008 12:24

...what color is the sound?

The same color as the music

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Hallams on June 05, 2008, 10:09:36 PM

CHANCE wrote on Fri, 06 June 2008 10:36

C.Cash wrote on Thu, 05 June 2008 12:24

...what color is the sound?

The same color as the music

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on June 05, 2008, 10:19:46 PM

0dbfs wrote on Thu, 05 June 2008 15:44

Dan-O wrote on Thu, 05 June 2008 15:25

The 3124 is something we share in common then for drum duties. The API7600 as well. Drums + API = Smile

IMO.

When I need something a tad slower with Z selection I go with the Great River MP2-NV. This isn’t exactly sooo slow either btw.

If you’re using an omni for FOK you'll have no problem with the R92 there. Don't see why the 900 wouldn't be a good bet for that duty either. Unless it turns out to be a dog, which I doubt.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on June 06, 2008, 11:55:50 AM

CHANCE wrote on Thu, 05 June 2008 20:36

C.Cash wrote on Thu, 05 June 2008 12:24

...what color is the sound?

The same color as the music

Music is colorblind...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on June 06, 2008, 12:00:43 PM

Just some up to the minute news.
It appears that the ACM-200 more than likely will have an aluminum flight case. I think they are adding this to make ammends for the last minute exclusion of the ACM-300. On another note, the mics will be finished and ready to ship before the pre amps will. They are asking me if they should wait and ship all together, or ship the mics seperately and sooner. I have to check the database to see how many ordered mics only. If there is a lot of "mics only" I might just do that. The pres take longer because they have to make the parts whereas the mics use mostly off the shelf/in stock parts.
On the pres, the metal work, xfrmrs, and pots have been outsourced and are now being manufactured.
My PM box is full. I have been getting messages with questions that should have been asked before your orders were made. I can't change anything now. To those who were asking if there were any extra pre amps ordered the answer is yes but I won't make them available until everyone has their pres. You will then have the advantage of reading the reviews of those who already have them and will be made available on a first come first serve basis

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on June 06, 2008, 03:26:21 PM

Dan-O wrote on Thu, 05 June 2008 22:19

The 3124 is something we share in common then for drum duties. The API7600 as well. Drums + API = Smile

I do use a condenser in an omni pattern for FOK. I have found that the mic is rather hot going through the 3124 at the lowest sensitivity setting (with the pad on at a distance of 5-6 ft!) which unfortunately necessitates inserting an external inline mic-pad. I hope the ACMP-81's will prove to work out well so I can dedicate the 3124 to close mic'd dynamics on the kit and use the ACMP's for other (distance) kit positions.

If anything I'm prepared to upgrade the transformers in the ACMP-81's and watch for any other beneficial mods.

Cheers,
j

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on June 06, 2008, 04:59:57 PM

0dbfs wrote on Fri, 06 June 2008 15:26

Dan-O wrote on Thu, 05 June 2008 22:19

The 3124 is something we share in common then for drum duties. The API7600 as well. Drums + API = Smile

I think the ACMP's will be an exceptional value. Mod's or not. I also think the line level in was a great call on these.

I have in-line pads on all the outputs of my 3124 so I can run the front end into the red. IMO it's where they shine for many sources. Common with most API's. Never felt it compromised much of anything.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: duckhunter on June 18, 2008, 04:31:36 PM

Why do I see 165 pages of posts sometimes and other times only 53?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on June 18, 2008, 04:50:16 PM

dguidry wrote on Wed, 18 June 2008 13:31

Why do I see 165 pages of posts sometimes and other times only 53?

different setting for number of posts per page most likely

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Hallams on June 18, 2008, 09:47:28 PM

dguidry wrote on Thu, 19 June 2008 06:31

Why do I see 165 pages of posts sometimes and other times only 53?

Time travel.....Don't let too many know...edit/delete your post and find someone with a practical knowledge of the parallel universe to have a chat with.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on June 30, 2008, 09:41:34 PM

No, the boat is not in yet, but our Chi-neves are being assembled as we sit.

Be patient.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Crash on July 01, 2008, 01:52:05 PM

Chi-Neves....that is what we have been calling them amongst myself and partners since we ordered.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on July 04, 2008, 10:24:37 AM

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 30 June 2008 21:41

No, the boat is not in yet, but our Chi-neves are being assembled as we sit.

Be patient.

LOL, classic.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on July 08, 2008, 10:15:23 AM

Thats a great name! Is it too late to get that put on the front in pink text?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Barkley McKay on July 09, 2008, 07:09:18 AM

Here are two examples of my ACM-3 on Flugel Horn that I tracked earlier this year. The ACM-310 is also discretely mixed in on the snare.

tracks:

I Remember You
Just Friends

http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewpro file&friendid=121366291

signal path is ACM-3, Sony DMX-R100, PT.

mixed by the artist in Logic 8 (his budget was tight!)

Barkley

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on July 09, 2008, 12:01:41 PM

Hey,

I am removing this from "Sticky Status," at least for a while.

Perhaps when "the ship comes in" Stickiness may return for a bit.

Looking Forward.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: organica on July 09, 2008, 07:12:33 PM

Barkley McKay wrote on Wed, 09 July 2008 07:09

Thanks for posting that ......... it sounds just like the ACM-3 here . Good to know .

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: duckhunter on July 10, 2008, 06:23:12 PM

Barkley McKay wrote on Wed, 09 July 2008 06:09

That's some serious musicianship,my friend.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Nick Sevilla on July 11, 2008, 01:19:11 PM

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 30 June 2008 18:41

No, the boat is not in yet, but our Chi-neves are being assembled as we sit.

Be patient.

Hi Chance,

If you end up with extra Chi-Neves, I'll buy a couple from you. Of course, I'll wait until you've sorted out any non-committed people first.

Cheers,

Nick

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on July 14, 2008, 08:57:20 PM

I just got word that our ETA is around the end of August.
I've been working a lot and am using the ACM-900 tube ribbon on this young girls (22) vox and the ACM-3 on her AC/guit. I'll post a clip when we're finished. I posted a video of the 200 so y'all can see things like how far away etc. Maybe I'll do the same with the 900

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on July 15, 2008, 02:31:42 PM

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 14 July 2008 17:57

I just got word that our ETA is around the end of August.

Awesome! Thanks for the update.

Every time I see one of these little updates, I hear the Jeapordy Theme in my head...

<sigh>

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on July 17, 2008, 05:30:10 PM

QUESTION FOR CHANCE:

I recently became a victim of Bush-o-nomics, i.e. I was laid off. Mad

So as a result, we're probably moving away...somewhere. Should I wait until shipping time to worry about the address change, or should I send it along when we get settled?

Christopher

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on July 17, 2008, 09:26:02 PM

willowhaus wrote on Thu, 17 July 2008 14:30

QUESTION FOR CHANCE:

I recently became a victim of Bush-o-nomics, i.e. I was laid off. Mad

So as a result, we're probably moving away...somewhere. Should I wait until shipping time to worry about the address change, or should I send it along when we get settled?

Christopher

Hey
Sorry about getting laid off. (something better is no doubt in the future) Stay tuned and when the boat comes in, notify me. Will you have the same E-dress?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on July 20, 2008, 10:44:36 PM

Yeah, I got Gmail for that reason - when we moved last time I had to change my emails all around.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on July 29, 2008, 12:13:27 PM

Well, we're in the home stretch in the manufacturing process. I just got the box design to approve, and they are making/asking for shipping instructions. I hope everyones shipping info is up to date as I will be setting up the system with the people doing the pack & ship process.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on August 01, 2008, 09:15:42 AM

I just got notice that SOME of the mics (135 cartons worth) are finished and ready to ship. Some mics need to be individually inspected (ribbon sag) They said that because this is "a first production run" on the mic-pres, they need to test every piece. I might just go ahead and have them ship what is ready now. I say "might" because it would involve extra steps and trips to the port of LA customs. I will call Randy later and see if he has the shipping data on how many and who ordered mics only that are now ready to ship.
Stay tuned
Edit/Delete Message

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: duckhunter on August 01, 2008, 11:38:28 AM

"around end of August" is a long time.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on August 01, 2008, 04:57:51 PM

I still have the Jeopardy Theme stuck in my head...

On the other prehensile appendage, I really do think that testing every unit of what, let's face it, must be a relatively small first production run (i.e not in the tens of thousands), is undoubtedly the right thing to do, and I for one am perfectly content to wait. Intellectually.

Emotionally, of course, I want them right damn now!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on August 02, 2008, 03:29:23 PM

Devin Knutson wrote on Fri, 01 August 2008 16:57

I second testing the units at the factory so that it is confirmed that they work as expected before shipping (mics and pre's!).

That way they can address any production related faults before we get them in our hands.

Cheers!
-jonathan

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on August 03, 2008, 11:26:09 PM

Hmm...That would be a different Paradigm, now, wouldn't it? Laughing

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on August 04, 2008, 08:27:00 AM

Uh oh!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on August 04, 2008, 04:26:22 PM

A recycled joke, but a good one nonetheless.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: garret on August 04, 2008, 05:47:31 PM

Holy mackeral. The quality of jokes is really sinking around here. We're floundering.

(oops... I'm in the wrong thread...)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Steve Hudson on August 04, 2008, 06:12:09 PM

I thought I'd post something just for the halibut.

I'm here all week...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on August 04, 2008, 06:33:32 PM

I wonder if the people on the ship where that picture was taken were standing there, some saluting, some dabbing at their eyes, while the band played that Vera Lynn classic

"Whale Meat Again"

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on August 04, 2008, 07:57:39 PM

I flew this in from another board

index.php/fa/9677/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on August 04, 2008, 08:27:25 PM

Some of those containers appear to be defying the laws of gravity.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Hallams on August 04, 2008, 09:23:10 PM

Berolzheimer wrote on Tue, 05 August 2008 10:27

Some of those containers appear to be defying the laws of gravity.

They do lock together, ......reminds me of one of my sailing fears ...... hitting a partially submerged container while crossing Bass Straight in the dead of night. They do have a bung in them that dissolves allowing them to sink....taking all those nice mics and chineves with them.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rankus on August 04, 2008, 10:19:52 PM

Chris is not kidding... there tons of them out there floating around like ice burgs with only a sharp corner sticking up!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on August 04, 2008, 10:58:12 PM

rankus wrote on Mon, 04 August 2008 19:19

Chris is not kidding... there tons of them out there floating around like ice burgs with only a sharp corner sticking up!

You mean like this one?::

index.php/fa/9679/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: seedyunderbelly.com on August 05, 2008, 02:38:38 AM

edit= oops.
Late night sorry for the x's

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on August 16, 2008, 05:36:44 PM

As we are now in the home stretch, they are preparing the owners manual. When I first posted specs on the "73", someone found some errors. I believe they posted a ,5 when it should have been .05. The intro to the manual is amusing the way they worded it. If anyone can spot any other errors, PM me so I can approve it.
Bummer, It's a "microsoft word document" and I cant upload this file type. Any Ideas?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on August 16, 2008, 06:38:29 PM

Chance,
I'd love to proof the manual. Can you post it on your site or e-mail a copy to me?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on August 16, 2008, 07:28:12 PM

zmix wrote on Sat, 16 August 2008 15:38

Chance,
I'd love to proof the manual. Can you post it on your site or e-mail a copy to me?

E-mail sent

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on August 16, 2008, 07:40:57 PM

I copied and pasted the first page LOL

Introduction
These series modules are a sutra design and contain all of the original components. Please close your eyes, taste of sweetness sense of music by these. Let each note be injected into our soul.
The modules have three input: Mic, Line and DI (only ACMP73). Microphone preamplifier has a transformer balanced input with a range between 20dB and 80 dB of gain. The separate line input is a transformer balanced and accepts input levels from +20 to -10dB. DI is high impedance and adapts to electronic instrument direct input. The modules have different equalizer section.
Technical Specification
1. Specifications (Bypass)
Mic Input Input Impedance 300? or 1200?, gain +80dB to +20dB in
6dB steps.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on August 16, 2008, 07:55:51 PM

Got it... working on it. Needs a serious re-write. Will report.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on August 16, 2008, 08:04:38 PM

zmix wrote on Sat, 16 August 2008 16:55

Got it... working on it. Needs a serious re-write. Will report.

Great!
Whats wierd is when I copied/pasted the part where it says "300-600 ohms", somehow the ohm charactor was replaced with a question mark when I posted

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Tom L on August 16, 2008, 09:09:16 PM

Whatever you do, for the love of god, please leave in the "Please close your eyes, taste of sweetness sense of music by these" bit.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on August 16, 2008, 09:33:26 PM

Oh yes!!

I'd love to see this myself. Chance, if you wish to share it (for the entertainment value if nothing else) I'd be happy to host it on my web space & provide a link.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on August 16, 2008, 10:22:02 PM

I think Chuck is transposing it

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on August 16, 2008, 10:57:15 PM

C, email sent.

T

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on August 16, 2008, 11:33:20 PM

That's fine with me, I just wanted to read the Chinglish version. Very Happy

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Roger Langvik on August 17, 2008, 08:28:13 AM

the Chinese certainly has a way with marketing Wink

I thought that one would have to ask for colourful descriptions of teh product!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on August 18, 2008, 11:16:35 AM

CHANCE wrote on Sat, 16 August 2008 19:40

Please close your eyes, taste of sweetness sense of music by these. Let each note be injected into our soul.

Obviously left over from the pres designed for Berry White (BWP73).

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on August 18, 2008, 12:22:47 PM

Well,, I give them (China) credit for trying.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on August 18, 2008, 12:42:38 PM

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 18 August 2008 12:22

Well,, I give them (China) credit for trying.

Well certainly. But I agree with the previous post as to leaving it in. I've always wanted each note to be injected into my soul since the day I started playing guitar. Still do. It's genius. Leave it.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on August 18, 2008, 01:37:55 PM

LOL

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on August 18, 2008, 02:31:19 PM

Got it...on the case...almost finished...

The "motto" will have to be left in.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: duckhunter on August 18, 2008, 02:36:16 PM

Any ETA on delivery to me here in Louisiana.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on August 18, 2008, 02:57:04 PM

hmm, I need to order more rack space to accommodate my 2 Chi-Neves.
Btw, My birthday is late September, those mics and pres would sure be a wonderful b-day gift! Very Happy

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on August 18, 2008, 02:59:00 PM

C.Cash wrote on Mon, 18 August 2008 11:57

hmm, I need to order more rack space to accommodate my 2 Chi-Neves.

Ha! I too realized this just this morning. I'm not too worried though... there's got to be some crap in there that I never use any more Rolling Eyes

C.Cash wrote on Mon, 18 August 2008 11:57

Btw, My birthday is late September, those mics and pres would sure be a wonderful b-day gift! Very Happy

Me too. The 30th to be precise.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on August 18, 2008, 03:58:26 PM

Dan-O wrote on Mon, 18 August 2008 08:16

CHANCE wrote on Sat, 16 August 2008 19:40

Please close your eyes, taste of sweetness sense of music by these. Let each note be injected into our soul.

Obviously left over from the pres designed for Berry White (BWP73).

Ha! I can just hear him singing that.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Roger Langvik on August 18, 2008, 05:12:30 PM

Devin Knutson wrote on Mon, 18 August 2008 20:59

C.Cash wrote on Mon, 18 August 2008 11:57

Btw, My birthday is late September, those mics and pres would sure be a wonderful b-day gift! Very Happy

Me too. The 30th to be precise.

EY!

Me three!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on August 18, 2008, 06:43:23 PM

Well it's my birthday tomorrow....... how about it Chance? Laughing

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Adam The Truck Driver on August 18, 2008, 09:06:51 PM

I missed all the fun on this I guess? If ever there is another GB...I'm in for sure...I couldn't read every post here...I did miss it right? I want in...if possible...whenever.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Randall on August 18, 2008, 09:25:39 PM

Count me in as well

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on August 19, 2008, 01:02:06 AM

Ya guys, this particular boat has sailed & we are waiting on it to sail back right now. Wink

I heard there may be some surplus, but I guess that remains to be seen, and some others have already asked about them, so...I'd say just keep your eyes open & see what develops.

FWIW, it ain't the first boat to China, and maybe not the last. (That's up to Chance, really.)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on August 20, 2008, 09:15:12 AM

...

Slow boat to China

...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Roger Langvik on August 20, 2008, 01:14:01 PM

yeah!

Swing it Magistern!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Andres Gonzalez on August 20, 2008, 02:01:42 PM

I have nothing worthwhile to say or add to this thread.

I just wanted to be part of, what appears to be, the largest and longest thread ever on this forum.

-Andres

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Tom L on August 20, 2008, 02:11:27 PM

Andres Gonzalez wrote on Wed, 20 August 2008 10:01

I have nothing worthwhile to say or add to this thread.

I just wanted to be part of, what appears to be, the largest and longest thread ever on this forum.

-Andres

http://recforums.prosoundweb.com/index.php/m/0/16023/2096/15

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Andres Gonzalez on August 20, 2008, 03:46:39 PM

Tom L wrote on Wed, 20 August 2008 14:11

Andres Gonzalez wrote on Wed, 20 August 2008 10:01

I have nothing worthwhile to say or add to this thread.

I just wanted to be part of, what appears to be, the largest and longest thread ever on this forum.

-Andres

http://recforums.prosoundweb.com/index.php/m/0/16023/2096/15

Sorry, I guess this isn't the longest. I will have to settle for being part of the next-to-the-longest thread.

Ah...maybe this is not the next-to-the-longest...so I guess I will have to only be part of a long thread.

-Andres

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on August 20, 2008, 06:37:03 PM

Not the longest yet. But we'll keep working on it.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on August 20, 2008, 07:04:41 PM

Maybe if everyone involved submits qualatative and quantitative tests and the results for every piece of gear that they ordered both pre and post mods...

Thoughts / Comments ?

Cheers,
-j

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on August 20, 2008, 07:16:45 PM

In thirty years, this thread will have turned into the "Helios" thread of its day, and there will be an index thread as well...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on August 20, 2008, 08:09:14 PM

....and people will write articles analyzing the content and reminiscing about being part of it at the time...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on August 20, 2008, 08:16:07 PM

...and the TNC gear will be passed down from father to son...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cnixon on August 20, 2008, 09:54:22 PM

Well, a thread like this IS the longest thread on another forum, and once the ship comes in, there will be a lot more chatter here. It may well become the longest and most popular thread here also. Just think, all of us involved in this group buy will be talking about how great this gear is relative to price, and those on the outside will be kicking themselves for not taking advantage of a great opportunity, and then trying to buy our gear!! Surprised

We have been patient, and now we are about to be rewarded!!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Hallams on August 20, 2008, 11:30:58 PM

compasspnt wrote on Thu, 21 August 2008 09:16

In thirty years, this thread will have turned into the "Helios" thread of its day, and there will be an index thread as well...

.....And to think i will be telling my grandchildren my post of some info (all be it somewhat useless) was the 2nd on the Helios thread and i was no. 8 to jump on board this group buy... well i feel just that bit more important now....life is good.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on August 21, 2008, 02:50:02 PM

willowhaus wrote on Tue, 19 August 2008 01:02

Ya guys, this particular boat has sailed & we are waiting on it to sail back right now. Wink

I surely hope the boat sails this way before those golds are rescinded...

Wink

willowhaus wrote on Tue, 19 August 2008 01:02

FWIW, it ain't the first boat to China, and maybe not the last.

Only time will tell. Looking forward to testing and modding.

Any update on an ETA Mr. Chance?

Cheers,
j

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on August 21, 2008, 03:08:35 PM

They are waiting on the re-write of the owners manual.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Barkley McKay on August 21, 2008, 03:13:12 PM

compasspnt wrote on Thu, 21 August 2008 01:16

...and the TNC gear will be passed down from father to son...

err, daughter here...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on August 21, 2008, 06:13:49 PM

Coming to you late tonight, C.

Thanks also to Chuck.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on August 21, 2008, 06:28:16 PM

Excellent! Perfect timing.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on August 21, 2008, 06:43:25 PM

compasspnt wrote on Thu, 21 August 2008 15:13

Coming to you late tonight, C.

Thanks also to Chuck.

My wife says that I enjoy reading manuals more than playing with the actual gear!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on August 21, 2008, 06:45:13 PM

chris carter wrote on Thu, 21 August 2008 18:43

My wife says that I enjoy reading manuals more than playing with the actual gear!

We'll sell you a manual for just $50...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on August 21, 2008, 06:45:42 PM

chris carter wrote on Thu, 21 August 2008 18:43

compasspnt wrote on Thu, 21 August 2008 15:13

Coming to you late tonight, C.

Thanks also to Chuck.

My wife says that I enjoy reading manuals more than playing with the actual gear!

"Penthouse Forum" isn't a manual......is it?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on August 21, 2008, 07:22:10 PM

chris carter wrote on Thu, 21 August 2008 15:43

compasspnt wrote on Thu, 21 August 2008 15:13

Coming to you late tonight, C.

Thanks also to Chuck.

My wife says that I enjoy reading manuals more than playing with the actual gear!

You would have had fun reading the China version of it.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on August 21, 2008, 07:34:01 PM

So, you're not going to include a photocopy of the original nfor entertainment purposes?

That would be throwing "added value" out the window.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on August 21, 2008, 07:44:20 PM

The "Chinese Motto" will be included...

It's to cool not to have it.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: QweziRider on August 21, 2008, 10:26:29 PM

zmix wrote on Thu, 21 August 2008 17:45

"Penthouse Forum" isn't a manual......is it?

It was for my misguided youth!! Very Happy

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cameron_k on August 22, 2008, 02:25:16 AM

ACM = Articulate Chinese Manual
ACMP = Articulate Chinese Manual? PLEASE!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Roger Langvik on August 22, 2008, 05:53:56 AM

Looking foward to reading the manual!

Cool

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on August 22, 2008, 08:40:45 AM

The Manual is now rewritten, but the original "Chinese Motto" is kept for sentimental reasons.

Chance, ready to send to you; check your email.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on August 22, 2008, 09:24:09 AM

Hmmm, so this is the last step before shipping!
where is the party? Very Happy

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Tom L on August 22, 2008, 11:44:55 AM

C.Cash wrote on Fri, 22 August 2008 05:24

Hmmm, so this is the last step before shipping!
where is the party? Very Happy

your place. we'll be right over

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on August 22, 2008, 12:06:51 PM

compasspnt wrote on Fri, 22 August 2008 05:40

The Manual is now rewritten, but the original "Chinese Motto" is kept for sentimental reasons.

Chance, ready to send to you; check your email.

I'll check it when I'm through backing up.
OWNERS MANUAL PART# ACOM 73-81-84 LOL

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on August 22, 2008, 03:10:10 PM

thanks for doing this, yet again, chance.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on August 22, 2008, 03:19:21 PM

rjd2 wrote on Fri, 22 August 2008 12:10

thanks for doing this, yet again, chance.

I didn't do it. Terry and Chuck did. I only read owners manuals when something doesn't work.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigbone on August 22, 2008, 04:19:27 PM

compasspnt wrote on Wed, 20 August 2008 20:16

...and the TNC gear will be passed down from father to son...

Are you try to tell me that some cheap preamp from china will be part
of the history..... come on, you can do better than that........ Confused

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on August 22, 2008, 04:26:31 PM

Are they from China? Shocked

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on August 22, 2008, 04:35:49 PM

I had some little pineapple cakes from China. They were mmmm-mmmm GOOD! If these preamps are half as tasty then I'll be a happy camper.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigbone on August 22, 2008, 04:41:01 PM

chris carter wrote on Fri, 22 August 2008 16:35

I had some little pineapple cakes from China. They were mmmm-mmmm GOOD! If these preamps are half as tasty then I'll be a happy camper.

Not sure you want to eat some xformer and some nob.......heheheheh

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on August 22, 2008, 06:05:18 PM

C.Cash wrote on Fri, 22 August 2008 16:26

Are they from China? Shocked

No Clif, they're really from Andros...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on August 23, 2008, 03:46:50 PM

I just tried sending the user manual out in a mass mail but the mass mail (out going) for some reason doesn't work and never has with MAC and my PC has pwr supply problems. The manual is PDF & DOC. It would take up too much real estate here on the board, so when my PC is up again, maybe wednesday, I'll mass mail it out to y'all

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on August 23, 2008, 05:39:21 PM

Just send the pdf.

Or we could get Randy to help me host it on

http://www.tnc-audio.com

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on August 23, 2008, 08:55:18 PM

compasspnt wrote on Sat, 23 August 2008 17:39

Just send the pdf.

Or we could get Randy to help me host it on

http://www.tnc-audio.com

Tease...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on August 23, 2008, 11:13:50 PM

Chance, the offer to host the Chinese version stands for the English one as well, if that helps. Our website is not getting huge traffic right now, so there shouldn't be any issues with bandwidth, and it's on GoDaddy, so it should be quite available for everyone.

(I'd just post a straight link, btw, not send anyone to our site!)

Heck, I'd feel good that my $$ isn't going to waste, with the site kinda just sitting there while we move. Just say the word (& send the file). Smile

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on August 24, 2008, 01:40:26 AM

Well, I tried to host the pdf of the Manual on the CPS site, but I'm not sure it's working, because I can't seem to make Firefox install the adobe acrobat reader plugin.

Can anyone get the pdf from here

http://www.compasspointstudios.com/tnc_man.html

???

Otherwise, Chris K, I can email you the pdf if you PM me your email add.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: garret on August 24, 2008, 01:50:38 AM

Try this url, folks:

http://www.compasspointstudios.com/TNC%20ACMP%20Manual.pdf

Terry, the page you posted has the pdf embedded in it, which in theory can work, but the size is set to 100 x 100 pixels.... that's too small to show the pdf document.

Ooo... now I get to read the manual.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Ryan Massey on August 24, 2008, 01:52:48 AM

Edit: Nevermind, simultaneous post...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on August 24, 2008, 02:38:31 AM

garret wrote on Sun, 24 August 2008 01:50

Try this url, folks:

http://www.compasspointstudios.com/TNC%20ACMP%20Manual.pdf

Ha, great, that works.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: matti on August 24, 2008, 08:48:15 AM

"I just got off the phone with the manufacturer and yes there were other errors too. The engineer told me that the distortion not more than 0.5% is at +26db max output, at 0 dbu output it is 0.05% at 0dbu output THD is from 20 Hz to 20 kHz. The Di is 20Hz to 20kHz"
The old mistake lurking?

Matti

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on August 24, 2008, 09:16:50 AM

I think maybe indeed the DI freq resp would be +/-1 from 20-20k, not 100.

But neither CZ nor I have measured that ourselves.

Of course, if it says 100-20k, that would still be correct, just not all of the truth.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on August 24, 2008, 12:15:51 PM

送小船!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on August 24, 2008, 12:52:49 PM

Thats what I was thinking!

Corrections made.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on August 24, 2008, 01:17:53 PM

chris carter wrote on Sun, 24 August 2008 09:15

???!!

Wow! You're reading my mind too!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on August 24, 2008, 01:21:14 PM

Chance, just sent ABSOLUTELY FINAL FINAL CORRECTED Manual. 10:18 your time.

Also uploaded to CPS site, so all is final.

Any more typos/mistakes, we just live with.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Adam The Truck Driver on August 25, 2008, 04:51:25 PM

Is the ACM1200 the same microphone as the AK47 because they look like the same mic? Does the AK have different capsule and guts?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on August 25, 2008, 05:07:53 PM

Quote:

...the R-F-T AK47 features a new circuit design based around a custom B47 transformer hand made in the United Stated by TAB Funkenwerk, a dual sided 6 micron gold sputtered capsule, custom 10-meter Gotham Audio cable, a remote 9 polar pattern external power supply and a New Old Stock Telefunken EF732 sub miniature tube.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on August 25, 2008, 05:26:55 PM

Most C12 "tributes" look pretty much the same in Internet pix.

I do know that T-USA has changed some internal components of theirs, even though I think that certain metal body parts may come from the original China version.

The TNC 1200 microphone is one we have had made in the way we wanted for this price possibility in the Group Buy.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on August 26, 2008, 10:57:34 AM

compasspnt wrote on Sun, 24 August 2008 01:38

garret wrote on Sun, 24 August 2008 01:50

Try this url, folks:

http://www.compasspointstudios.com/TNC%20ACMP%20Manual.pdf

Ha, great, that works.

No pictures? Sad

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on August 26, 2008, 11:58:02 AM

C.Cash wrote on Tue, 26 August 2008 10:57

compasspnt wrote on Sun, 24 August 2008 01:38

garret wrote on Sun, 24 August 2008 01:50

Try this url, folks:

http://www.compasspointstudios.com/TNC%20ACMP%20Manual.pdf

Ha, great, that works.

No pictures?

Warning, I may post a pic pretty soon...of the insides...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on August 26, 2008, 01:22:18 PM

CHANCE wrote on Thu, 21 August 2008 15:08

They are waiting on the re-write of the owners manual.

Does this mean that the units are still in China or are they ready to ship to the GB participants?

Thanks man!

Cheers,
-j

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on August 26, 2008, 02:03:36 PM

As of this moment, they are still in China, basking in the afterglow of The Olympics.

Believe me, that will warm them up, so be glad.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on August 26, 2008, 06:36:24 PM

compasspnt wrote on Tue, 26 August 2008 11:58

Warning, I may post a pic pretty soon...of the insides...

I supose now that everyone has PAID for them, we might as well...

http://static.howstuffworks.com/gif/cell-phone-inside.jpg

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on August 26, 2008, 08:41:59 PM

Wow Chuck, you are psychic or something (or is it psychotic?)

How did you know it was really a digital preamp?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on August 26, 2008, 08:48:35 PM

PREAMP????

Huh?

I thought it was a plugin....!!!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Larrchild on August 26, 2008, 08:48:50 PM

Is that what I think I see?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on August 27, 2008, 07:32:55 AM

I just got notice they are ready to ship.
WOW! This is much bigger than I thought I could sure use some help in finding a shipper from China. For the mic pre's alone this is the info they gave me: 42.2 steres
carton 57 X 47 X 63cm 250 pcs
they said it will fill a 40' GP container $2300.00 using their shipper.

For some of the mics that are ready: 136 cartons
MEA 13.92 M3
weight 3011 KG
Using their shipper $700.00

If anyone has connections in logistics to get better rates
please let me know ASAP
I am extremely busy here in the studio and any help will be greatly appreciated

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on August 27, 2008, 08:06:29 AM

I stopped by Compass Point last night and Mr. Manning showed me this pic of one of the Pre's. I promised not to show it but I figure its safe on PSW. Please don't copy and show outside of this forum.

http://img155.imageshack.us/img155/9702/enginejk2.jpg

Looks vintage!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on August 27, 2008, 08:40:35 AM

Cliff, that was shown in confidence.

But now that it's out, I think it's OK to let everyone know that the preamp is a HYBRID Diesel.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on August 27, 2008, 08:54:50 AM

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 27 August 2008 07:32

Chance,

If I understand you correctly, that works out to $9.20 per preamp and $5.15 per microphone to get them all the way from China....

Seems reasonable enough.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Tom L on August 27, 2008, 09:05:03 AM

C.Cash wrote on Wed, 27 August 2008 04:06

I stopped by Compass Point last night and Mr. Manning showed me this pic of one of the Pre's. I promised not to show it but I figure its safe on PSW. Please don't copy and show outside of this forum.

Looks vintage!

That must be the 73. I see the DI on the upper left

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Tomas Danko on August 27, 2008, 09:17:18 AM

Talk about GAS.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on August 27, 2008, 09:29:37 AM

I guess the 19" rack I ordered wont work. Sad

I wish TnC would have told us before!
In fact I don't think 2 will fit in my CR!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on August 27, 2008, 09:40:46 AM

Thats not even all the mics and you all already paid for this shipping, but if there is a more economical shipper I would like to know. The problem is I am SWAMPED (pardon the caps LOL)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on August 27, 2008, 10:10:21 AM

Waiting patiently! Rolling Eyes

http://www.thompsonrecording.com/downloads/Patchbay.jpg

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on August 27, 2008, 10:31:45 AM

J-Texas wrote on Wed, 27 August 2008 07:10

Waiting patiently! Rolling Eyes

LOL Love it. Is that a TT PB? If so, what label program did you use?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on August 27, 2008, 10:36:14 AM

Yes, TT.

Excel. Print. Check. Re-Check. With a ruler. Razor Blade. Adjust. Repeat steps (repeatedly). Go insane. Finally get it. Drink a beer (Heineken). Pain in the ass. Realize I have to move 24 TT's again. Drink two glasses of wine. Call it a day.

It's that easy! Laughing

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Tom L on August 27, 2008, 11:27:23 AM

J-Texas wrote on Wed, 27 August 2008 06:36

I have the exact same label maker program

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on August 27, 2008, 12:20:42 PM

Or,

http://www.redco.com/shopexd.asp?id=634

Go here to Redco, scroll down and you will see

Labelling Template available HERE

This is what we used for my TT PB, works great and looks great.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on August 27, 2008, 12:32:39 PM

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 27 August 2008 04:32

BUMP

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Craig Patterson on August 27, 2008, 02:45:29 PM

Chance, I know you're looking for actual help, but I can only comment that I don't think that sounds unreasonable at all for an entire shipping container. Eight bucks per pre seems like a great deal. Even if you do find someone cheaper, I doubt it will be enough to make the hassle worthwhile. How can it get much cheaper than a couple grand for a whole container?

FWIW, I'm happy to pay that for shipping on the items I bought, even if I have to fork over more dough.

Craig

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on August 27, 2008, 03:03:05 PM

Craig Patterson wrote on Wed, 27 August 2008 11:45

Thanks, but I am going to stick by my word as stated "shipping included". I don't want to give an impression of bait & switch.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on August 27, 2008, 03:11:35 PM

FWIW, I do not remember the "shipping included" portion of the proceedings, and have been fully expecting the control panel to show that a shipping invoice was available for payment at some point.

That is what it's there for, isn't it?

Am I confused again?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on August 27, 2008, 03:20:19 PM

Devin Knutson wrote on Wed, 27 August 2008 12:11

Shipping to you from here will be billed. Shipping from China was included

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on August 27, 2008, 03:22:54 PM

bump due to diesel nonsense

zmix wrote on Wed, 27 August 2008 08:54

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 27 August 2008 07:32

Chance,

If I understand you correctly, that works out to $9.20 per preamp and $5.15 per microphone to get them all the way from China....

Seems reasonable enough.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on August 27, 2008, 03:42:08 PM

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 27 August 2008 12:20

Shipping to you from here will be billed. Shipping from China was included

Ah. Got it, thanks.

Still, for my order it looks like international + domestic would work out to something around 50-60 bucks.

I'd pay that. Happily.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on August 27, 2008, 05:48:40 PM

hey chance, dont know if this boat has sailed already, but a friend of my lady's used to work for a shipping company in china. may have some leads on cheaper shipping. if you'd like to me to ask and it's still a valid issue, PM me.

oh, and i was previously thanking you for just handling this whole thing, the manual for the pre's dont affect me, didnt order one.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on August 27, 2008, 06:48:28 PM

The products are coming from three different locations. The mic pre's are coming from the parent company pro division. The ribbons from another location, and the others from another location. Everything is ready to ship except for the ribbons. Lets hope they get it right this time.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TB-AV on August 27, 2008, 09:56:59 PM

Chance, I agree with Chuck Z. It's not an issue.

I'm sure they would ship the most reliable method.

I think everyone appreciates that you are a man of your word and that this is a dynamic endeavor in which we all share considerable responsibility and risk.

Tell them to weigh anchor and simply add the fees on to final bill.

Tom B

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on August 27, 2008, 10:59:32 PM

I agree.

How much over budget it that quote?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on August 27, 2008, 11:41:03 PM

Ship the gear; add it to our shipping costs. None of us are stupid, we all know shipping costs have gone up recently. I'd rather spend a few extra bucks and have them sent NOW with a shipper the manufacturer is used to doing business with than wait an unknown amount of time and use a different shipper that could possibly cause a logistical problem. Spread across the 500 or so GB'ers it's not a big deal.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on August 28, 2008, 01:25:33 AM

I concur as well.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: mattrussell on August 28, 2008, 07:18:07 AM

i'm prepared to pay extra to get the ball rolling as well, but there are a lot of people involved with the buy. it's not what chance promissed, so guys, lay off. he's doing what he said he would and unless every single person agrees to this, how can he change it? i'd rather not have him not spend the time getting a response from every single person about this and just have him worry about shipping it the way he said he would.

chance, you're doing the right thing, keep on keepin' on. again guys, lay off. the gear will be here soon enough i'm sure.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on August 28, 2008, 01:47:17 PM

chris carter wrote on Wed, 27 August 2008 20:41

None of us are stupid

speak for yourself
Razz

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on August 28, 2008, 02:41:29 PM

mattrussell wrote on Thu, 28 August 2008 04:18

Well, I have to agree with this. While I (and I would assume almost everyone else here) would certainly be willing to absorb the cost, I almost shudder to think what would happen over at "The Other Place™"

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on August 28, 2008, 03:13:24 PM

Something worth repeating. Shipping from China to the port of LA, duty, dock fees, broker fees, were included in the price like I originally stated!! We're building a company with integrity and trust. Remember, this GB was for forum members only. Your word of mouth on these products will more than make up in future sales. You guys got the first shot at these hence the low price.
I hate to say this, but this reminds me of when I was into drugs. A guy would give me some stash cheap until I was hooked, then the price went up LOL

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on August 28, 2008, 03:19:49 PM

You... you...

enabler!

That's it, Chance. I shall now officially think of you as my "dealer".

Oh wait... we're not making these transactions within 500 yards of a school, are we?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on August 28, 2008, 03:28:22 PM

LOL

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on August 28, 2008, 04:39:44 PM

Chance,

Coming to a grocery store parking lot near you!

http://blog.sounddomain.com/photos/orion/april_21_07_004_2.jpg

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on August 28, 2008, 04:48:51 PM

J-Texas wrote on Thu, 28 August 2008 16:39

Coming to a grocery store parking lot near you!

Can you say Acoustic Research?

Cheers,
j

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on August 28, 2008, 05:11:30 PM

And you just KNOW there's a box full of Monster cable in there somewhere.

My wife works for a custom high output regulator and alternator business (mostly for ambulances etc.), and every so often some chump will come in with a rig looking like this, and complain that his car won't start reliably.

Lets see... 20,000 watts to the subs.
Stock 40 amp alternator...

Hmm...

"Do you notice a difference if the stereo is turned on?"

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Craig Patterson on August 28, 2008, 05:12:05 PM

Chance, I don't know what city you're shipping from, but...:

http://en.shippingchina.com/index.php/Ship_FreightFcl/index/ page/6
quotes $1900

Here's a place to get several quotes if you have more info about the shipment:
http://www.oneentry.com/quotes/cargo.htm

Another tool:
http://www.freight-calculator.com/apxocean.asp

There are others, but you need to know much more about the shipment than I suspect you do, such as the various fees, BAF, and the like.

Hope that helps.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on August 28, 2008, 08:11:24 PM

Craig Patterson wrote on Thu, 28 August 2008 14:12

Hey! Thats all very helpful info. Thanks.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on August 29, 2008, 01:43:18 PM

Well,,,,, China should be shipping next week. I have to sign power of attorney to the broker hopefully today, otherwise because of the holiday, Tuesday.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on August 29, 2008, 02:03:14 PM

Let me be the first to say,

H O O R A Y

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on August 29, 2008, 03:57:51 PM

W 0 0 T !!!11!one!!11!one!!eleventybillion!!!!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on September 02, 2008, 08:51:40 PM

Terry,

We're still waiting on those interior photos....

ahem...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on September 02, 2008, 11:36:07 PM

zmix wrote on Tue, 02 September 2008 20:51

Terry,

We're still waiting on those interior photos....

ahem...

Wait no more...

index.php/fa/9832/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on September 03, 2008, 12:04:44 AM

Thanks Terry...!!

Looks like a well constructed unit, and modular, too!

Any idea where those ICs on the filter boards are in the signal path?

(Not trying to blindly disparage... after all the neve 8078 used -plenty- of opamps, and nobody ever complained about the sound)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Barkley McKay on September 03, 2008, 07:24:11 AM

zmix wrote on Wed, 03 September 2008 05:04

There have been discussions on the Prodigy forums, and the consensus is that the IC's are for metering purposes only as there is a clip/overload led for each audio band.

http://www.prodigy-pro.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=27791&p ostdays=0&postorder=asc&start=0

Barkley

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Tom L on September 04, 2008, 03:13:39 PM

CHANCE wrote on Fri, 29 August 2008 09:43

Well,,,,, China should be shipping next week. I have to sign power of attorney to the broker hopefully today, otherwise because of the holiday, Tuesday.

any news on the shipping front?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on September 05, 2008, 02:48:41 AM

how about some more pics?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Hallams on September 05, 2008, 03:33:25 AM

C'mon guys. Don't let the pre amps dominate the show. The mics are really where it's at!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on September 05, 2008, 11:52:52 AM

Tom L wrote on Thu, 04 September 2008 12:13

CHANCE wrote on Fri, 29 August 2008 09:43

Well,,,,, China should be shipping next week. I have to sign power of attorney to the broker hopefully today, otherwise because of the holiday, Tuesday.

any news on the shipping front?

They're scheduled to ship on the 10th. I still haven't gotten my power of attorney papers but expect to hear from the broker today. They are E-mailing the POA papers, and usually they require a fax for return of signed papers. I don't have a fax anymore. I wonder if I can just scan the signed docs and E-mail back to them. I'll have to ask when he calls.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: duckhunter on September 05, 2008, 04:24:41 PM

Is our stuff on the proverbial "slow boat from China". I haven't been too keen on shipping estimates, lately, having just learned that my Dell laptop ordered 8/11/2008 won't be shipped until sometime in late September, after the estimated shipping date was changed a second time. Be careful if anyone orders a Dell....expect ridiculous delays.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on September 06, 2008, 10:59:47 PM

Quote:
Originally Posted by Gilliland
Geez, gentlemen, relax. Back in July, I posted a likely timetable that suggested that most of us would receive our purchases somewhere between Halloween and Thanksgiving. The only thing that's changed since then is that the shipment from China has slipped by a couple of weeks (making them later still). So let's not jump the gun. It's going to be a while yet before anyone gets their orders.

Here's what has to happen:

1) China ships everything (?) on September 10th. Shipping takes 30 days, but let's be optimistic and hope for them to get here by October 1st.

2) Chance arranges to get them through customs and has them delivered to whoever it is that will do the actual shipping. Figure at least a week.

3) That vendor begins packaging them for shipment. As packages are completed, weighed, and labeled, Chance has to send a bill to the recipient (us) to get payment for the shipping costs. We then make payment, and Chance tells the logistics vendor to release them for shipping. Figure another week.

4) That means that the earliest packages will go out (at best) around October 15th. Most will go out later, with the entire process taking perhaps 3-4 weeks.

Actual ground shipping will take another 3-7 days. So a few very early shipments may (if all goes perfectly) arrive in late October. A few very late shipments (mostly those who don't get shipping costs paid quickly) may arrive after Thanksgiving. The rest (the vast majority of us) will arrive somewhere in between.

Overseas shipments will take longer. Those who are picking up products in person will obviously be quicker.

This is based on nothing more than some reasonable estimates and experience with the prior group buys here. But I think it's pretty solid. And, like all project plans, it's more likely to slip than to improve.

If you really want to be optimistic, then hope that the logistics vendor is able to process the entire batch of orders in a very short time period (say, a week). Then the bottleneck becomes the payment process for shipping costs. But even in that best case scenario, it still just means that more of us will see shipments near the end of October rather than November.

Chance, if you think my estimates are way off, please say so. I certainly won't be offended.

Jim

Because of such a large order, things must be done differently this time. previous GB's, I would rent a U-haul truck and pick everything up. This time, everything is coming in containers, and I must have them trucked to my wearhouse. from there I will be transporting cartons to the packaging/shipping building. They will be packing 8 hours a day 5 days a week. When they have an order packed, weighed, and measured, they will E-mail me this info and I will print out the labels and bill you all. When I recieve payment, they will immeadiately ship to you. Bear in mind, there are around 300 orders. Overseas orders will go out USPS, and USA orders will go out Fed Ex. For the lucky-locals, I will have your orders here at the studio for pick up.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on September 07, 2008, 01:32:50 AM

Sounds good. For those of us in the Hollywood & Valley areas, perhaps rather than each of us driving out to Ontario separately one of us can go & bring all our orders to LA & then we can have a little get together to celebrate & distribute said items. I have a van, I might even volunteer to make the run.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Brian Kehew on September 07, 2008, 02:01:38 AM

I am local but will be out on tour at the time... I'm patient and will happily drive out after I get home in November.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on September 08, 2008, 02:27:52 PM

I just met with the people doing the pack & ship. I will try to get a hold of Randy later but when you all paid for the gear, I didn't bill you because you all knew upfront the cost of the gear. Since there is no way of knowing the cost of shipping up-front, because everyone will be different, I guess I will send an E-mail with the shipping costs. At this time (until I speak with Randy)I'm not sure how the payment process will work.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on September 08, 2008, 02:36:12 PM

I don't want to speak for Randy by any means, but I would think that the fulfillment house could generate an invoice on the site as the order is packed and processed.

Randy, if you'd like some help with data feed import/export operations like this, let me know. This is pretty much what I do.

(I know it's what you do too, so please don't take this as an "I could do it better" type comment, cause it's way not.)

Thanks!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on September 11, 2008, 08:36:08 AM

UPDATE
I was just notified that our gear is at the port in China waiting to be loaded on the boat.
On another note, I was just notified that 54 of the mic pres failed their quality control tests. These pres are manufactured in groups of one hundred. Because 54 failed, they are pulling the whole group of 100 just to be sure. (maybe these were made on a Monday or Friday) They are shipping only 900 out of the 1000 pc order and will ship the rest at their expense in about 2 weeks. I don't know when the boat will shove off, but they say this trip to the port of LA will be about 14 days. The broker will keep me informed but it won't be much longer.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on September 11, 2008, 02:33:46 PM

CHANCE wrote on Thu, 11 September 2008 05:36

UPDATE
but they say this trip to the port of LA will be about 14 days..

Unless the world collapses into a black hole, in which case the trip will be a bit shorter.

(I guess I have a thing about cross referencing threads)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: analogical on September 12, 2008, 12:21:59 PM

Any word for the latecomers on this group buy?

What would you recommend I do, just wait for the next one...Will there be a next one? If so when?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on September 12, 2008, 12:40:19 PM

analogical wrote on Fri, 12 September 2008 09:21

Any word for the latecomers on this group buy?

What would you recommend I do, just wait for the next one...Will there be a next one? If so when?

Without any exaggeration, I have received hundreds of E-mails with the same question. At this time, I don't know how to respond to these requests. I will say "Stay tuned"

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on September 13, 2008, 03:32:44 PM

I spoke with the broker yesterday and he said that the mics are shipping from China on the 13th and the pres will ship on the 15th. They are shipping from two different ports. They expect the voyage to be between two and three weeks. Once they arrive here in LA, they must be held for around another week to be cleared in customs for release. After that, they will be shipped to me and will immeadiately be disbursed to the shipping dept.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on September 15, 2008, 08:48:27 AM

Everything is now on its way. Hmm, what could I do with 1000 mic pres? 1000 simultaneous tracks? LOL

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cameron_k on September 16, 2008, 06:52:55 PM

CHANCE wrote on Sun, 14 September 2008 05:32

They expect the voyage to be between two and three weeks.

Two to three weeks from China to the U.S.? Those Chinese political dissidents sure can row hard.

Oh wait: I guess I'd row hard if I had a gun pointed at my head. Rolling Eyes

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on September 17, 2008, 09:34:59 AM

We were just doing some dry run tests on the shipping process. I noticed that some of your shipping info is incomplete. Please log in to your user console, check and update (if needed) your shipping info. Everything is automated and the gear will be shipped to whatever destination you entered. This over rides any E-mail corrections you might have sent me. When the gear arrives, I don't want any surprises when we start shipping.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Nick Sevilla on September 17, 2008, 12:29:29 PM

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 17 September 2008 06:34

Hi Chance,

I went to verify my address on th user console... but I cannot log in anymore. I do have the correct password.

It simply resets the login field, every time I try to log in.

Anyways... my address is correct... I just wanted to triple check it.

Cheers

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Nick Sevilla on September 17, 2008, 12:35:49 PM

Never mind... it works now...

"The Internets is acting weird sometimes"

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: ScotcH on September 17, 2008, 01:50:38 PM

Hi Chance,

I checked my shipping info, and it looks fine, but I remembered that for out of USA customers, there is no way to enter a province. I just put the province in the City field, and it looks OK, but since you said it's all automated, I want to make sure it will print the label correctly.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: PookyNMR on September 17, 2008, 02:54:05 PM

ScotcH wrote on Wed, 17 September 2008 11:50

Yes, I was thinking the same thing. What is the preferred thing to do here?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on September 17, 2008, 03:23:00 PM

PookyNMR wrote on Wed, 17 September 2008 11:54

ScotcH wrote on Wed, 17 September 2008 11:50

Yes, I was thinking the same thing. What is the preferred thing to do here?

These will all be entered into the Fed Ex and USPS file where their are provisions for that info.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: ScotcH on September 17, 2008, 08:02:54 PM

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 17 September 2008 15:23

These will all be entered into the Fed Ex and USPS file where their are provisions for that info.

Good lord ... Manully?? Sounds like a big job!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on September 17, 2008, 09:21:11 PM

ScotcH wrote on Wed, 17 September 2008 17:02

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 17 September 2008 15:23

These will all be entered into the Fed Ex and USPS file where their are provisions for that info.

Good lord ... Manully?? Sounds like a big job!

CSV file

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: ScotcH on September 18, 2008, 12:39:51 AM

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 17 September 2008 21:21

ScotcH wrote on Wed, 17 September 2008 17:02

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 17 September 2008 15:23

These will all be entered into the Fed Ex and USPS file where their are provisions for that info.

Good lord ... Manully?? Sounds like a big job!

CSV file

Ok, so back to the original question ... if we put the province in the City field (since the State field is a dropdown of US states only), will it be all f'ed up once it gets imported by the CSV? Basically, I just don't want to delay things because of bad data entry Smile

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on September 19, 2008, 09:22:05 AM

I imagine it wouldn't be real hard to sort it, once it's in CSV. You can manipulate CSV fields fairly easily - even in Excel, a semi-manual separation wouldn't be too hard to pull off.

It shouldn't be difficult to do some simple programming to separate the data into a usable format, even mailing to far-off unknown places like Canuckistan. Very Happy

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on September 19, 2008, 12:19:34 PM

When I access Fed Ups or USEX shipping, and I designate "international", the fields change to provide for all this other (outside USA) info.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on September 19, 2008, 09:48:38 PM

There ya go! Cool

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on September 23, 2008, 07:26:36 PM

I am trying to get things together with the CSV file. I am on a MAC. Anyone know what I can send Fed Ex and USPS that they can open and manipulate in Excell so they can create the CSV file for my shipping adress book? Randy is having some hard times right now commuting between NC and Georgia. I used Text edit to create a list, and they couldn't use that. Then I made a doc. file on a PC and they can't use that either.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on September 23, 2008, 09:31:53 PM

If you have a CSV file, then Excel should be able to open that just fine without changing it to anything else. CSV stands for comma separated values, and it's a pretty basic way of making a list. Should just have a header line, and any missing info has place with nothing between the commas:

FIRST_NAME,MIDDLE_NAME,LAST_NAME,ADDRESS,CITY,STATE,PLANET,P HONE,EMAIL1
John,Doe,,123 Fourth Street,New York,NY,,555-1212,john@doh.com,,
Tom,W.,Smith,,,,Earth,1-800-HOMELESS,gimmeadollar@yahoo.com

Etc.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rollmottle on September 23, 2008, 10:30:53 PM

Yes, Excel should open the CSV just fine, but I know from the pains in the balls at the day job that there are some mysterious compatibility issues with Excel Mac and Excel PC. CSV should work universally though.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: thinman on September 23, 2008, 11:05:03 PM

Chance, check your PMs please.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on September 24, 2008, 07:58:26 AM

thinman wrote on Tue, 23 September 2008 20:05

Chance, check your PMs please.

Got it
I am getting Excell for MAC today. With Excel, does ALL the information (name, rank, and horsepower) go in one cell? Or is each cell for each bit of info for each order. If everything goes in one cell, it SHOULD be a simple task to simply copy/paste from my list to one cell for each order. Fed Ex requires Excell and if I send them the info in Excell, they will convert and install it in my Fed Ex address book.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on September 24, 2008, 09:14:13 AM

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 24 September 2008 07:58

thinman wrote on Tue, 23 September 2008 20:05

Chance, check your PMs please.

In excel set it up so that each column is a field and each row is a record. Leave blank cells where there is no data.

The problem with the CSV differences between mac and win is probably a CR/LF issue.

Cheers,
j

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on September 24, 2008, 09:27:03 AM

If you don't want to spend money for Excel, you can download for free the great NeoOffice.

http://www.neooffice.org/neojava/en/index.php

Neo is from Sun Microsystems, and does everything Word and Excel can do.

If you use it, open Neo, go to Preferences, and set the default file type for a version of Word and Excel that work on Mac.

Then after you have a .doc and .xls document, click once on each document icon, then Command-I, set the "Open With" to be Neo, and also click on "Change All."

This will set all .doc and .xls files to open with Neo, and will ignore any Free Trial Microsoft installs.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on September 24, 2008, 09:27:54 AM

0dbfs wrote on Wed, 24 September 2008 06:14

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 24 September 2008 07:58

thinman wrote on Tue, 23 September 2008 20:05

Chance, check your PMs please.

Quote:
Originally Posted by mshilarious View Post
NO!! There should be columns:

First
Last
Address 1
Address 2
City
State
ZIP/Postcode
Country
Thanks. You no doubt saved me a lot of time.
When you say "columns", is that the vertical, or horizontal columns?

Oh, I just re-read your post and I see it is the vertical.
How do they distinguish between the last column for one order to the first column of the next?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on September 24, 2008, 09:39:08 AM

compasspnt wrote on Wed, 24 September 2008 06:27

I already converted my text edit to a doc file, but Fed Ex and USPS need an Excel file to put my data in my account.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on September 24, 2008, 10:07:11 AM

Wow, I guess I have a lot of work ahead of me. If I have to do it that way, I may as well just input it all in my address book my self.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: A.J. on September 24, 2008, 12:09:57 PM

Hi Chance,

From what I've read so far you do not have the info as a csv file, but only as a text file. Is this correct? If this is true, there are a few text to excel converters out there. I've used at least one and I'm pretty sure I got it to work. I think I still have one installed somewhere. If you'd like me to give it a shot, PM me and maybe I could give it a try with your file. Here's a link to a few of them:

http://www.simx.com/simx/simx.stt/entry=7/adv=46?gclid=CPuTl Mrn9JUCFQObFQodQENhhQ

http://www.softinterface.com/Convert-XLS/Features/Convert-Fi xed-Width-Text-File-To-XLS.htm?gclid=CMv2vvrn9JUCFQNHFQodkTe fiA

Best,

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TB-AV on September 24, 2008, 12:41:58 PM

Chance, the CSV files are usually created via a "save as" or "export" feature.

You say you have the data in a document or text file. within that/those progs do you have an option to "save as CSV" or "export to CSV"?

When importing into Excel each comma will make a new field/cell.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: ScotcH on September 24, 2008, 12:58:36 PM

TB-AV wrote on Wed, 24 September 2008 12:41

Right, and this will either save us non-US citizens, or more likely f*ck it all up, depending on how the web site writes the file (ie, does it ignore empty fields and not put them in?) Smile

Since I was forced to put my province in the City field, I entered it like this: "Ashton, Ontario", and left State blank. Now, what I assume will happen is that Excel, or any other CSV converter will try to suck in my line of data, only to find an extra column, because I put a comma in the City field. Basically, I expect that the data will be shifted by 1 column after the City column. This will require manual fixing.

This is the problem I pointed out earlier with non-US addresses.

Also, there are way too many people with IT knowledge trying to help here. Having said that, I'm willing to help in any way I can Wink

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TB-AV on September 24, 2008, 02:05:01 PM

Here are some directions that deal with making the correct type file.

Yes, you are correct you will have to have the format consistent or perhaps two files. One for US and one for Non-US

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/819964

Chance, although that document does not state it. If your addresses are similar to those in the link above from your text document. All you need do is Copy from .doc file and Paste to Excel. That will place everything in Column A to begin the process.

Tom B

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on September 24, 2008, 02:10:57 PM

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 24 September 2008 09:39

compasspnt wrote on Wed, 24 September 2008 06:27

I already converted my text edit to a doc file, but Fed Ex and USPS need an Excel file to put my data in my account.

That's the deal here. NeoOffice makes either a doc file, or an xls file, exactly compatible with Word or Excel.

For Free.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on September 24, 2008, 02:11:01 PM

As far as other countries go, that shouldn't be a problem because when I get the information (number of pkgs, size & weight) from the people doing the shipping, I would/will simply click on the persons name and "international" and everything is where it is supposed to be. When I enter number of pkgs, size & weight, it calculates the charge and I print the shipping labels and custom papers and E-mail you the charges. When I receive shipping pymt, it's already, ready-to-go and it gets picked up. This is how I did it in the past.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on September 24, 2008, 02:12:08 PM

compasspnt wrote on Wed, 24 September 2008 11:10

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 24 September 2008 09:39

compasspnt wrote on Wed, 24 September 2008 06:27

I already converted my text edit to a doc file, but Fed Ex and USPS need an Excel file to put my data in my account.

That's the deal here. NeoOffice makes either a doc file, or an xls file, exactly compatible with Word or Excel.

For Free.

I'm on it

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on September 24, 2008, 02:32:04 PM

But if your Mac has the "Free Trial" or whatever they call it of MS Office/Word/XL, etc., be sure to trash that whole folder. It only works for 30 days, then you pay.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on September 24, 2008, 07:40:25 PM

I think rather than copy/paste to Excel, I may as well just copy/paste right into my Fed Ex and USPS address books. Thats where it is supposed to end up anyway. Sort of like "Direct to disc" It will take some time, but inch by inch it's a cinch.
Anyone know what country "NLD" is? City is EINDHOVEN. (first one on the list and already a problem) It can only get easier/faster as I progress

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Hallams on September 24, 2008, 07:44:04 PM

CHANCE wrote on Thu, 25 September 2008 09:40

Anyone know what country "NLD" is? City is EINDHOVEN. (first one on the list and already a problem) It can only get easier/faster as I progress

Its in Holland

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on September 24, 2008, 07:59:13 PM

Hallams wrote on Wed, 24 September 2008 16:44

CHANCE wrote on Thu, 25 September 2008 09:40

Anyone know what country "NLD" is? City is EINDHOVEN. (first one on the list and already a problem) It can only get easier/faster as I progress

Its in Holland

Wow! Holand isn't on Fed ex list, but Netherlands and Netherlands Antills is.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: jetbase on September 24, 2008, 08:10:36 PM

Netherlands = Holland

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on September 24, 2008, 09:54:08 PM

jetbase wrote on Wed, 24 September 2008 17:10

Netherlands = Holland

Duh!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on September 25, 2008, 07:41:01 AM

Something very wierd is going on around here. After last nights session, I thought I would at least start manually entering the 300+ names, shipping address, phone numbers, E-dresses etc. I STARTED keying in the name, and it magically appeared! Then I started keying in the ship address, and it too appeared. My initial thought was that I might have tried keying it in before, and the computer remembered it. I tried this with several other names some of which I KNOW I never keyed in and they all magically appeared after keying the first letter of each field. Are the shipping gods looking down on me? This is creepy!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on September 25, 2008, 08:19:29 AM

Perhaps TNC can do things others cannot.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on September 25, 2008, 08:23:19 AM

compasspnt wrote on Thu, 25 September 2008 05:19

Perhaps TNC can do things others cannot.

Or it's a MAC thing. Now I won't be able to sleep until I find a logical explanation for this.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Hallams on September 26, 2008, 10:30:13 AM

Having trouble loging in to check my postage details even though my log in and password are correct.....just wondering if i missed something.....has there been a chane to the log in procedure?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on September 26, 2008, 10:50:05 AM

Hallams wrote on Fri, 26 September 2008 07:30

Having trouble loging in to check my postage details even though my log in and password are correct.....just wondering if i missed something.....has there been a chane to the log in procedure?

A couple other had that problem, but they eventually got in. Try a different browser.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on September 29, 2008, 10:18:10 AM

Well,, the boats will be arriving next week. The containers will be in quarantine/customs inspection for a week then will be shipped to me. All those who will be picking up their gear from me here in Ontario (Cal.), send me an E-mail with "pick up" in the subject header, so I can remove those invoices from the shipping process.
__________________

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on September 29, 2008, 11:30:51 AM

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on September 29, 2008, 01:40:21 PM

I had the same problem. What I did was request my password in the "forget your password" and tried again and was allowed in.Worked for me a few times, in fact thats the only way I can get in. Try it.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Kris on September 29, 2008, 02:54:45 PM

Thanks C.Cash... Right after I posted my (since deleted) question, I remembered that someone mentioned that in the thread earlier (probably you) and I did that. Worked like a charm!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Hallams on September 30, 2008, 01:55:12 AM

CHANCE wrote on Sat, 27 September 2008 00:50

Hallams wrote on Fri, 26 September 2008 07:30

Having trouble loging in to check my postage details even though my log in and password are correct.....just wondering if i missed something.....has there been a chane to the log in procedure?

A couple other had that problem, but they eventually got in. Try a different browser.

That worked. I was having the trouble in firefox and with the switch to safari logging in was no problem.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 01, 2008, 09:00:04 AM

Anyone know how I can send multiple E-mails (around 400) at once without entering each E-dress one at a time? Our mass mail system isn't working. I tried copy & paste into my address book, but it didn't work

UPDATE:
The mic pres are now in customs

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 01, 2008, 11:17:54 AM

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 01 October 2008 06:00

Oh, and the other ship is in US waters

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TB-AV on October 01, 2008, 11:42:22 AM

Chance, I don't have a Mac, but even in the lowest MS email client you can create -Groups-

That usually pops up a window and you just select the addresses you want from your master list and they go into that group. Then send an email to that group.

I'm sure there must be something similar in the Mac Mail client.

TB

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 01, 2008, 11:48:10 AM

TB-AV wrote on Wed, 01 October 2008 08:42

Yes there are groups, but you must enter one at a time. I am still using Outlook express on the MAC. It is the only program that I use daily that operates in Classic (OS 9.2)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on October 01, 2008, 03:38:43 PM

TB-AV wrote on Wed, 01 October 2008 11:42

Chance, I don't have a Mac, but

I am proud of you for coming right out like a man, and just admitting that.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: organica on October 01, 2008, 04:07:57 PM

compasspnt wrote on Wed, 01 October 2008 15:38

TB-AV wrote on Wed, 01 October 2008 11:42

Chance, I don't have a Mac, but

I am proud of you for coming right out like a man, and just admitting that.

A crowning meritorious achievement .

Possibly deserving of this Profile in Courage Award ;
index.php/fa/10048/0/

In whatever arena of life one may meet the challenge of courage, whatever may be the sacrifices he faces if he follows his conscience – the loss of his friends, his fortune, his contentment, even the esteem of his fellow men – each man must decide for himself the course he will follow. The stories of past courage can define that ingredient – they can teach, they can offer hope, they can provide inspiration. But they cannot supply courage itself. For this each man must look into his own soul.
John F. Kennedy, Profiles in Courage

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 01, 2008, 04:29:46 PM

I just got word they are delivering the first container tomorrow. I am going to try to hold them off until Friday. This is the 20' container. It's 23.9 cubic meters. Can anyone tell me how big a footprint I need to clear in the w-house? The other container is in customs now (40' container)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Nizzle on October 01, 2008, 05:31:08 PM

Chance,

I'm trying to decide whether or not to drive to you or have my equipt. shipped off to me. Can you estimate when you think you will have the gear available for pickup?

thnx.

-t

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: A.J. on October 01, 2008, 06:07:00 PM

Wow, what's this Group Buy all about?

I'd love to get in on it. Where do I sign up? Are there preamps? What about mics?

I kid, I kid!!....
My info is up to date. Looking forward to putting this stuff to use!
Thanks again, Chance.

Best Regards,

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 01, 2008, 06:59:58 PM

Nizzle wrote on Wed, 01 October 2008 14:31

Chance,

I'm trying to decide whether or not to drive to you or have my equipt. shipped off to me. Can you estimate when you think you will have the gear available for pickup?

thnx.

-t

Gimme at least a week for both containers to arrive and for me to take inventory and start transporting to the shipper.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on October 01, 2008, 09:14:56 PM

compasspnt wrote on Wed, 01 October 2008 12:38

TB-AV wrote on Wed, 01 October 2008 11:42

Chance, I don't have a Mac, but

I am proud of you for coming right out like a man, and just admitting that.

Yes, because it takes a huge amount of courage to admit not wanting to pay three times the money for the privilege of being locked to proprietary hardware.

I tell you, I can almost smell that New Gear smell. It's almost here! It's almost here!

[does embarrassing little dance]

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Hank Alrich on October 01, 2008, 11:34:00 PM

Devin Knutson wrote on Wed, 01 October 2008 18:14

compasspnt wrote on Wed, 01 October 2008 12:38

TB-AV wrote on Wed, 01 October 2008 11:42

Chance, I don't have a Mac, but

I am proud of you for coming right out like a man, and just admitting that.

Meanwhile, people with contemporary Macs can run Mac OS, Unix, and Windows. Dang, that is something proprietary. "Don't try this at home on your Windows machine, kids."

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on October 01, 2008, 11:56:15 PM

Hank Alrich wrote on Wed, 01 October 2008 23:34

Meanwhile, people with contemporary Macs can run Mac OS, Unix, and Windows...

And Linux, and all AT THE SAME TIME.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on October 02, 2008, 12:36:58 AM

compasspnt wrote on Wed, 01 October 2008 20:56

Hank Alrich wrote on Wed, 01 October 2008 23:34

Meanwhile, people with contemporary Macs can run Mac OS, Unix, and Windows...

And Linux, and all AT THE SAME TIME.

All very true.

Now try to put a third party SATA controller in it.

I know, I know. The latest ones really are finally different and all shiny and cure cancer and stuff, but they're still two thousand dollars more than they should be.

Not really interested in having this conversation again anyway... just yanking a bit of chain - killing some time while doing my little "New Gear! Almost Here!" dance.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on October 02, 2008, 05:42:21 AM

compasspnt wrote on Wed, 01 October 2008 22:56

Hank Alrich wrote on Wed, 01 October 2008 23:34

Meanwhile, people with contemporary Macs can run Mac OS, Unix, and Windows...

And Linux, and all AT THE SAME TIME.

In the snow! Uphill! Both ways! Laughing

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Hallams on October 02, 2008, 06:53:19 AM

getting close now....... got me thinking of the ACM 120's I'm getting. Is it modeled after the AKG C12 and if so how close is the circuit design. They would be a good candidate for upgrading the transformer etc. (sorry if this has been discussed in the thread before)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on October 02, 2008, 09:07:07 AM

The 1200 is very much inclined towards the C12, and it is a good candidate for upgrading.

In fact, we are working right now on a very cool upgrade package.

News at 11.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Hallams on October 02, 2008, 09:26:43 AM

My suspicions confirmed. This is going to be fun.... reminds me of a movie scene..... yes! Yes!! YES!!! ......... I'll have what she's having.....

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 02, 2008, 01:09:05 PM

LATEST UPDATE:
They are delivering the first container (20') tomorrow morning. I just found out that it is NOT paletized. This means a manual unload (Ugh!). The same holds true for the 40' container with the mic pres. For an extra charge of $400.00 they will palatize it and put in on a truck. I have no problem with unloading the 20' because they gave me 5 days free with the container.
Edit/Delete Message

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: CHANCE on October 02, 2008, 01:15:25 PM

compasspnt wrote on Thu, 21 February 2008 09:44

"T" could do it.

Oh wait, that's me...

LOL

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Roger Langvik on October 02, 2008, 01:23:03 PM

Oh Man!

Just my luck, I was thinking about getting a 1200 but I opted for 2 of the small diaphragm tubes instead...
Ecognomeics you know...

And NOW you're talking upgrade packages Terry ! ? Rolling Eyes

Nah it's great!

Good luck with all that unloading Chance!
Be careful with your back!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Crash on October 02, 2008, 01:42:55 PM

compasspnt wrote on Thu, 02 October 2008 08:07

The 1200 is very much inclined towards the C12, and it is a good candidate for upgrading.

In fact, we are working right now on a very cool upgrade package.

News at 11.

I got one of these just for the purpose of screwing around with it in terms of modifying it. I am intrigued with this package. Do tell....

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Nick Sevilla on October 02, 2008, 03:00:45 PM

CHANCE wrote on Thu, 02 October 2008 10:09

Hi Chance,

I can go pick up my order when it is ready, so you do not have to ship it to me.

Cheers,

Nick

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on October 02, 2008, 05:38:27 PM

Nick Sevilla wrote on Thu, 02 October 2008 12:00

CHANCE wrote on Thu, 02 October 2008 10:09

Hi Chance,

I can go pick up my order when it is ready, so you do not have to ship it to me.

Cheers,

Nick

Me too. And as I said earlier in this thread I think it makes sense for some of us in the LA area to do a carpool pickup so we don't all have to drive out to Ontario- And depending on the timing I might be able to do the pickup, with my 13 year old assistant, and I promise I won't head off to Mexico with your equipment.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on October 02, 2008, 07:04:14 PM

Berolzheimer wrote on Thu, 02 October 2008 17:38

I might be able to do the pickup, with my 13 year old assistant, and I promise I won't head off to Mexico with your equipment.

Would you trust this man with YOUR gear?

index.php/fa/8855/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on October 02, 2008, 07:11:38 PM

Well, you apparently trusted him with your tee shirt...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on October 02, 2008, 10:43:20 PM

nice cs-40m, dude in terry's photo. i've got one here that is 95% back to spec.

and i am quite looking forward to new mics as well. yee haw!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on October 03, 2008, 03:04:48 AM

compasspnt wrote on Thu, 02 October 2008 16:04

Would you trust this man with YOUR gear?

Hmmm, prolly not.

I love my cs40m! I've had it since it was new, in 1981. I almost sold it to Audites recently, but realized I couldn't let it go. Just in time to do a bunch of sound design on a Rob Zombie film, too.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 03, 2008, 09:42:34 AM

The 20' container just arrived. I removed one carton of four ACM-1200's, and they are heavy. Fortunately, there is a Home Depot close by. The 40' container with the mic pres will be here next week.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on October 03, 2008, 09:49:33 AM

Chance, I'm sure I speak for every one involved when I say please hurry up!
Kidding Very Happy

I off load 20'and 40' containers often at my day job and know exactly what you are in for, especially the fact that the items are not on pallets. So be careful and thanks again for all the trouble.

Clifford.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on October 03, 2008, 06:12:01 PM

CHANCE wrote on Fri, 03 October 2008 09:42

The 20' container just arrived. I removed one carton of four ACM-1200's, and they are heavy. Fortunately, there is a Home Depot close by. The 40' container with the mic pres will be here next week.

All I can say about this whole situation at this point is:

WOW!

And I don't mean "Whip it Out Wednesday's"

Please do post some snaps as it comes together.

Cheers,
jonathan

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on October 03, 2008, 06:22:36 PM

Yeah! Great Idea! I'd love to see a pic or two of the containers.

And do please be careful, Chance. "Contents may have settled during shipment."

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 05, 2008, 06:39:45 AM

By popular demand. heres some pics
index.php/fa/10071/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 05, 2008, 06:42:15 AM

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Hallams on October 05, 2008, 06:43:53 AM

Gee wiz,i've been thinking, i hope you have a few mates to help you with the lifting and postage etc....... This is a big thing you have taken on! I would pop over and give you a hand if the pacific pond wasn't so big

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 05, 2008, 06:45:28 AM

Here are the 30 boxes of replacment ribbons from the last GB

index.php/fa/10073/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 05, 2008, 06:49:35 AM

Here is 87 cases of 4 ea. the ACM-1200

index.php/fa/10074/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Hallams on October 05, 2008, 06:54:49 AM

And 4 of em are mine ... 2 for me, 2 for a mate!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 05, 2008, 04:17:12 PM

Our own "rollmottle" was just here to pick up his mics and I just had the first look of the 6802 without the gold grill. I now wish I would have taken a pic. The dull silver really looks MUCH better. I don't have one here and maybe Anthony could post a pic.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on October 05, 2008, 05:18:59 PM

Thank Heaven, no gold.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rollmottle on October 05, 2008, 07:05:06 PM

CHANCE wrote on Sun, 05 October 2008 13:17

Ask and ye shall receive!

Thanks again Chance for 1. organizing this 2. making my life easier by letting me pick them up today and 3. for showing me something very special (get your mind out of the gutters!). My bounty runneth over with Mic goodness. Sorry for the crappy iPhone pix. Can take better pix later if folks are interested.

http://photos-g.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-sf2p/v357/182/6/593239828/n593239828_1437630_9840.jpg

Precisely 1 half of my haul.

http://photos-h.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-sf2p/v357/182/6/593239828/n593239828_1437631_1230.jpg

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on October 05, 2008, 07:15:21 PM

As I feared, they didn't think to change the TNC logo away from gold as well...

Anyway, much better than gold grille.

Thanks for the pix!

The Gear is Here.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: organica on October 06, 2008, 02:45:34 AM

compasspnt wrote on Sun, 05 October 2008 19:15

The Gear is Here.

wahoo !

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on October 06, 2008, 11:26:46 AM

pics of pres please Cool

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Barkley McKay on October 06, 2008, 11:35:49 AM

Les Ismore wrote on Mon, 06 October 2008 16:26

pics of pres please Cool

Pete. Check your PM's

Barks

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: MikieBahamas on October 06, 2008, 09:03:03 PM

WHOOOOOOOOO HOOOOOOOOOO!!!!

Thank You CHANCE!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 07, 2008, 07:28:20 AM

This is TnC audio and we're rolli'n on seven.
Got 7 orders packed, and billed late last night. Some of you involved, check your spam folders for possible mass mail. The outside of USA shippments are a pain with the customs forms

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on October 07, 2008, 08:55:26 AM

Chance is really a bored housewife with nothing to do.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 07, 2008, 09:11:35 AM

LOL (yeah right pal) Boredom is something I hope I never have to go through.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 07, 2008, 01:03:06 PM

Anyone know what country "DEU" is? City is ULM.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Rod Affleck on October 07, 2008, 01:20:00 PM

CHANCE wrote on Tue, 07 October 2008 14:03

Anyone know what country "DEU" is? City is ULM.

Germany. (the "DEU" is for Deutschland)

So now that I have your attention, what's the plan for all of the extra ribbons? will they automatically be sent to everyone who got a ribbon mic last time or do we have to put in a request?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on October 07, 2008, 02:02:36 PM

CHANCE wrote on Tue, 07 October 2008 04:28

This is TnC audio and we're rolli'n on seven.
Got 7 orders packed, and billed late last night. Some of you involved, check your spam folders for possible mass mail.

Ah. Thanks for the heads up! Sure enough, gmail spammed the "TNC" sender.

I logged into the online interface just now while holding my breath, hoping to see a shipping invoice. Sigh. Not yet. (not that I really expected to be in the first 7, but hope springs eternal, you know)

Back to whistling the Jeopardy theme. Smile

compasspnt wrote on Tue, 07 October 2008 05:55

Chance is really a bored housewife with nothing to do.

I shouldn't think he could be all that bored at the moment...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on October 07, 2008, 02:20:30 PM

Chance, will the shipping bill come via e-mail or do we log in to the group buy thingy to get it?

Thanks.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 07, 2008, 02:33:59 PM

C.Cash wrote on Tue, 07 October 2008 11:20

Chance, will the shipping bill come via e-mail or do we log in to the group buy thingy to get it?

Thanks.

E-mail

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on October 07, 2008, 03:34:21 PM

An email was sent out to everyone advising to "watch out" for the shipping charges invoice.

That email was sent from a new "TNC" address, so some may have to look in their Spam Folders to find it.

The reason is to try to get the payments expedited, so that will speed everything up for everybody.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 07, 2008, 06:36:51 PM

Sorry (and I even did a google search) Praca da republica no19 city tomar. Google says San palo. and thats not listed in USPS

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on October 07, 2008, 06:39:34 PM

Sounds like Brasil to me, if not, maybe Portugal...

Eu gosto muito do Brasil, BTW.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on October 07, 2008, 06:46:49 PM

I find reference to a Praca da Republica in Viana do Castelo, Portugal.

Don't know if that helps or not.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 07, 2008, 06:51:55 PM

Thx.
man this getting crazy. his address is "praca da republica' n (then a degree symbol which I don't have)19. the city is "Tomar"

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 07, 2008, 06:54:16 PM

Devin Knutson wrote on Tue, 07 October 2008 15:46

I find reference to a Praca da Republica in Viana do Castelo, Portugal.

Don't know if that helps or not.

Cool and thanks. Now I'll see if there is a city called Tomar in Portugal. It sure is great to have this online support.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on October 07, 2008, 06:59:17 PM

I'm finding that lots of Portuguese cities have a "Praca da Republica"... ("Square of the Republic - [Town Square?]) typically an historic section of Renaissance buildings.

The City of Tomar, Portugal has one as well. Perhaps 19 is a building or suite number?

Sorry I can't be more help. In fact, I'm going to shut up now in case I'm making things worse.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: YZ on October 07, 2008, 06:59:30 PM

CHANCE wrote on Tue, 07 October 2008 19:36

Sorry (and I even did a google search) Praca da republica no19 city tomar. Google says San palo. and thats not listed in USPS

Hard to help you with that one.

My country, my state (Brazil, S

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: YZ on October 07, 2008, 07:07:43 PM

CHANCE wrote on Tue, 07 October 2008 19:51

Thx.
man this getting crazy. his address is "praca da republica' n (then a degree symbol which I don't have)19. the city is "Tomar"

The letter 'n' followed by a superscript low-case 'o' is the Portuguese (and Brazilian) abbreviation for 'number'.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 07, 2008, 08:57:04 PM

Man these out of country orders are painfully slow. They have around 30 orders packed and so far I have sent out 14 shipping pymt requests. I would have had more, but I have sessions too (got to have SOME meat in the soup) The USPS online system is the pits. Fed ex is a breeze. So far, as long as they are packing "mics only", they elected to start with the international orders. It's just as well, I now know what I am in for. Out of 14 pymt requests, I still haven't received any pymt.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on October 07, 2008, 09:13:58 PM

Looks like we'll have a bunch of extra free mics to divide between us...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Hallams on October 07, 2008, 09:53:32 PM

Don't give me mics away just yet......
got the email this morning, Razz

but still waiting for the user console to show the invoice. Its still showing the invoice as not available.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigbone on October 07, 2008, 09:59:08 PM

Please please i will take a 1200.............. PM me..... Please please please..... i will pay for it.......

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: MI on October 07, 2008, 10:48:45 PM

And I'll take a 1200 or 2 as well.

Between us Jean we'll have a pair if need be.

MI

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on October 07, 2008, 11:08:30 PM

Guys, don't salivate all over your monitors.

There probably won't really be any "leftovers."

But we will announce soon a new plan.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: MI on October 07, 2008, 11:10:13 PM

That's what we figured... Wink

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 08, 2008, 08:56:27 AM

I just learned how to send invoices through the administration console, Thanks to Chris and Cliff for letting me know it works (I sent them test invoice) and it works. Rewind back to the top and I will send OFFICIAL invoices later today. Whats a drag is I have some sessions with some awesome musicians and the weight of this is taking some of the enjoyment away from immersing myself in these sessions. I'm still having fun though.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Hallams on October 08, 2008, 09:03:03 AM

Hey Chance, let it go for a bit and really enjoy those sessions.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 08, 2008, 09:16:53 AM

This place RAWKS!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on October 08, 2008, 10:10:25 AM

Chance "rawks."

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: QweziRider on October 08, 2008, 10:50:16 AM

compasspnt wrote on Tue, 07 October 2008 07:55

Chance is really a bored housewife with nothing to do.

Hey! I resemble that remark!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 08, 2008, 11:01:50 AM

This is becoming an education for me with regards to geography. After everything is shipped, it will be interesting how many different countries we are shipping to. All of a sudden the world seems much smaller.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Barkley McKay on October 08, 2008, 11:39:18 AM

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 08 October 2008 16:01

This is why the TNC Group Buy is such a positive for the good of human kind

We no longer need Wars shown on TV to find out where a country is!

thanks for all the hard work Chance

barks

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on October 08, 2008, 01:04:22 PM

Barkley McKay wrote on Wed, 08 October 2008 08:39

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 08 October 2008 16:01

This is why the TNC Group Buy is such a positive for the good of human kind

We no longer need Wars shown on TV to find out where a country is!

thanks for all the hard work Chance

barks

But if you don't bomb them, how will they ever learn?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 08, 2008, 02:37:14 PM

OK. I just sent out some of the official invoices. They're ready to ship and am waiting on pymt. The 40' is here with the pres and the empty container must be empty (for pick-up) on the 13th.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: floxe on October 08, 2008, 07:13:41 PM

Quote:

Cool and thanks. Now I'll see if there is a city called Tomar in Portugal. It sure is great to have this online support.

yes, there is a city called TOMAR in portugal and there's also a praca da republica 19.

Quote:

please don't mix up australia (AUS) with austria (AUT) Wink

really looking forward to getting all the goodies - the shipping invoice will be devastating though (should be around 400$)

best,
flox

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 08, 2008, 08:34:35 PM

I don't understand it. Still no pymts and the shippers floor is full. A lot of invoices have been sent. I have the same feeling in my gut as when a band comes in to record and you have to wait while someone shows everyone their part. I might have to rent (and charge for) a storage bin. I don't want to come off like a jerk, but I want to keep moving.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on October 08, 2008, 08:54:40 PM

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 08 October 2008 20:34

I'm ready for receiving anytime you are ready for shipping.

I have not yet received an invoice (just checked the GB console and email) yet.

Once I do I'll be happy to react quickly.

Cheers,
j

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: floxe on October 08, 2008, 09:16:57 PM

Quote:

I'm ready for receiving anytime you are ready for shipping.

me too, and i'm supposed to get quite some stuff - 4x pre's & 6x microphones.

best,
flox

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on October 08, 2008, 09:21:14 PM

I've been checking that dang thing every 5 minutes waiting for an invoice to pop up so I can pay it. I suggest all the 'whiners' like me with itchy trigger fingers should be put on the priority packing list so you can clear some space.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: E Merrill on October 08, 2008, 09:34:08 PM

I received the notice to watch for the invoice but nothing since.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: tunetown on October 08, 2008, 09:51:39 PM

Eric Merrill wrote on Thu, 09 October 2008 12:34

I received the notice to watch for the invoice but nothing since.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Ryan G on October 08, 2008, 09:57:40 PM

Same here....only the email to look out for an invoice but no actual invoice yet. I feel like a junkie, waiting.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Hallams on October 08, 2008, 10:48:14 PM

Just checked my user console, and all is ok with it. Yahoo....time to pay

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 08, 2008, 10:56:37 PM

Did it go thru? I'm getting ready to call Randy back now.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: plughead on October 09, 2008, 12:36:40 AM

Eric Merrill wrote on Wed, 08 October 2008 21:34

I received the notice to watch for the invoice but nothing since.

+2...

Give us the benefit of the doubt: I think something is screwed up at your end, Chance!

Still waiting for my invoice, and I'd pay it in a flash.

Thanks for putting up with the hassles - I hope things smooth out for you, and trickles down to all of us participating in this particular GB...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on October 09, 2008, 12:39:00 AM

nuthin here except the warning that I should look out.

"nuthin from nuthin leaves nuthin........"

hey there's a song in there!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: QweziRider on October 09, 2008, 01:46:19 AM

No invoice, no notice of an invoice...still looking every now and then. As soon as the console lets me, I'll pay up.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on October 09, 2008, 05:37:35 AM

Les Ismore wrote on Thu, 09 October 2008 15:39

nuthin here except the warning that I should look out.

Same here. All ready to pay as soon as I can.

Thanks Chance.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on October 09, 2008, 05:43:37 AM

I'm also ready to pay for my lowly lil' preamp, soon as I get the bill. Wink

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 09, 2008, 07:34:28 AM

Well, we found a glitch in the system. There was only one way to pay and that was Pay Pal (of which I am banned from using) I called Randy yesterday and his wife answered and said "even she hardly sees him anymore". She told me what time to call back and I did. Randy stayed up quite late and fixed the problem. I just checked this morning and so far, one payment has been made. Once the few bugs are worked out, things will smooth out as we develop our system.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Rod Affleck on October 09, 2008, 07:37:03 AM

I got this e-mail message on Monday:

"All charges including container rental/transportation and your shipping
$57.36"

But there was no link to actually pay the shipping invoice, and when I log onto the group buy registration site at www.n344rb.com the "view invoice" button for the shipping invoice is still greyed out. Once I know where I need to actually send the funds I will make the transfer.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 09, 2008, 07:50:39 AM

This was fixed last night. Did you "refresh"? You might be opening up the stored page. It should be OK, because it worked for one person so far.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bill obrecht on October 09, 2008, 08:06:55 AM

At least for me, the shipping invoice has not
arrived via email, and is not available on the
User Console. I'm eager to pay, and will be grateful
for any advice on how to get the invoice.

Thanks so much for doing this, Chance. What
a wonderful opportunity you're providing for
everyone.

Bill Obrecht

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on October 09, 2008, 08:10:33 AM

Still nothing.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on October 09, 2008, 08:22:00 AM

Nothing here either. No email, no invoice on the user console. I'm ready the minute you are.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 09, 2008, 08:29:51 AM

Invoices will be sent as they are packed. Remember there iar almost 400 orders to fill.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on October 09, 2008, 08:30:19 AM

Also everyone please be aware that the only people who could have received invoices as yet are those with microphones only.

If you have mic pre's only, or mics and mic pre's, those invoices would not have gone out yet.

When this whole glitch is worked out, I will probably delete all of these procedural posts.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: mattrussell on October 09, 2008, 09:35:39 AM

thanks terry. that clears up a lot. i know you and chance understand that there are a lot of us that are thrilled to see the stuff arrive and are more than happy to pay the shipping to put the gear in our hands.

take your time, get it right as i know you will. we've waited this long - another couple of weeks isn't all that bad.

chance, you're a saint.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 09, 2008, 09:35:40 AM

The out of country USPS orders, like I said, are painfully slow. For each order, I have to input all the shipping information from the stored names in the address book (as if I were shipping) just to get the quote. After I receive payment, I must do it all over again along with customs forms all filled out to print the label. Once the label is printed, it is deducted from my account. This is for EACH out of USA order.

With Fed Ex, I can have everything ready to ship right from the address book, with the label afixed, and I am not charged until the order is picked up/scanned.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TheDan on October 09, 2008, 11:28:11 AM

I am domestic with mics only, no sign of anything in my mailbox or from the user console, FWIW.

Thanks,

-Dan

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on October 09, 2008, 01:07:03 PM

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 08 October 2008 20:34

I was mearly commenting to this post. Smile

It's greatly appreciated all the work put into this. No rush really. Pace your self and take your time. We just want you to know were ready on our end.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on October 09, 2008, 02:12:52 PM

For his heroic efforts in bringing this together, I think Chance deserves a promotion:

http://www.tsgnet.com/pres.php?id=370617&altf=Dibodf& ;amp ;altl=Qbublj

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: duckhunter on October 09, 2008, 02:18:01 PM

Man, I'd give you $100 if you could make one for me...Dean Guidry.....please!!!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TB-AV on October 09, 2008, 02:26:08 PM

Chance and/or Terry, I have not received the "heads up" email that Terry said was sent to everyone. I'm not in the mic only group but if emails went to everyone to watch for invoices, I'm thinking something may have gone wrong.

My mail is very lightly filtered and I review everything that hits the Junk folder. That might explain the non-payments.

Tom B

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 09, 2008, 02:39:22 PM

TB-AV wrote on Thu, 09 October 2008 11:26

Hey Tom
Invoices are sent through a dedicated server. I always had problems with the mass mail. I tried through my outlook express and had to divide it up. we're working on it.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on October 09, 2008, 03:29:59 PM

dguidry wrote on Thu, 09 October 2008 11:18

Man, I'd give you $100 if you could make one for me...Dean Guidry.....please!!!

At the end of the video there's a link you can click on to make your own.

You can send the $100 to Unicef or some such!

-PB

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: duckhunter on October 09, 2008, 03:31:32 PM

Berolzheimer wrote on Thu, 09 October 2008 14:29

dguidry wrote on Thu, 09 October 2008 11:18

Man, I'd give you $100 if you could make one for me...Dean Guidry.....please!!!

At the end of the video there's a link you can click on to make your own.

You can send the $100 to Unicef or some such!

-PB

I had figured it out already. Thanks.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on October 09, 2008, 04:41:24 PM

Chance I think I may head over for a Sunday afternoon pickup, is that a good time for you? If there are still boxes to be moved my (13 y/o) son & I can pitch in.
-Paul B

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Steve Folta on October 09, 2008, 05:06:55 PM

Berolzheimer wrote on Thu, 09 October 2008 13:41

Chance I think I may head over for a Sunday afternoon pickup, is that a good time for you? If there are still boxes to be moved my (13 y/o) son & I can pitch in.

Yeah, what's the procedure for us locals? I never got even the preliminary shipping email, presumably because I'm local. But I'm waiting to learn how and when I can pick up my order (mics only).

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on October 09, 2008, 05:25:49 PM

Dean For Dog Catcher!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 10, 2008, 09:17:12 AM

Hey! I am getting FLOODED with E-mails about "extras". I'm sorry, not being rude, but I just don't have the time to answer. After everything is shipped, I'll see whats left and post/mass mail for those who are on the mass-mail list.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 10, 2008, 01:22:54 PM

check your spam. I just sent out another group of invoices

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: organica on October 10, 2008, 01:53:22 PM

nothing here .

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Thompson on October 10, 2008, 05:58:52 PM

can the invoices be viewed from the group buy registration control panel?

I keep checking back there....

Greg

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 10, 2008, 07:29:49 PM

Steve Folta wrote on Thu, 09 October 2008 14:06

Berolzheimer wrote on Thu, 09 October 2008 13:41

Chance I think I may head over for a Sunday afternoon pickup, is that a good time for you? If there are still boxes to be moved my (13 y/o) son & I can pitch in.

Yeah, what's the procedure for us locals? I never got even the preliminary shipping email, presumably because I'm local. But I'm waiting to learn how and when I can pick up my order (mics only).

Hey Steve. you're only a few miles from here
I'll check your order and see if I can have it here for you on Sunday

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on October 12, 2008, 12:19:26 PM

once again, i want to thank you chance for doing this. i really appreciate it.

i believe you said that you are doing the domestic shipping of orders that were JUST mics first-my order is amongst these, and i am in NO HURRY WHATSOEVER-take your time. with that said, i havent seen an invoice yet, but i just want to make sure that us buyers dont end up holding YOU up by not paying shipping promptly. so feel free to put up any kind of blanket post here if you want that says "all of the XXX-type shipping invoices have gone out. pay em now!" if that will possibly help expedite your job.

again, a tip of the hat to chance and terry....

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 12, 2008, 02:13:39 PM

I have to confess that not being on the receiving end, I don't know how you are notified about your invoices. (Let me/us know) Payments ARE coming in so the system is working. The 40 foot container is empty (ugh), inventory has been taken, and we will start shipping next week.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: organica on October 12, 2008, 03:55:01 PM

glad it's working . I have not seen an invoice yet however .

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 12, 2008, 06:40:16 PM

Forty feet of gain from 1000 ACMP's

index.php/fa/10139/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rodabod on October 12, 2008, 06:53:29 PM

Who's going to be the first to actually post a picture of one of the preamps? Or are we keeping this a surprise for ourselves?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 12, 2008, 06:57:52 PM

Today was a special day for me because as it turns out the person who just picked up several cases of pre amps and mics was playing KB with Benny Hester (and Ron Tutt) that night in the fall of 1982 that changed my life forever. I got my first look and feel of the ACMP-81. VERY heavy. I was even surprised that the front face plate is very thick (guessing 1/4") Heres a first look index.php/fa/10140/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 12, 2008, 07:00:55 PM

Heres an end view

index.php/fa/10141/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: matti on October 12, 2008, 07:57:38 PM

Makes me smile

Matti

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 12, 2008, 08:01:25 PM

Heres Bills first impresson

"drBill
Senior Member

Join Date: Mar 2008
Posts: 198
Rep Power: 43421

Just got home. Am unpacking a huge load of goodies that filled the bed of my full size pickup. All I can say is that you guys are going to be very, very happy. Pics to follow soon and hopefully I'll get to run things thru their paces next week with clips. Keep an eye out. You'll have eye candy soon......."

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Tom L on October 12, 2008, 10:10:20 PM

CHANCE wrote on Sun, 12 October 2008 14:40

Forty feet of gain from 1000 ACMP's

index.php/fa/10139/0/

So you decided to go with a rust color for the pre's. I like it.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 13, 2008, 10:09:06 AM

We were hoping to ship a lot of boxes today but because of the holiday, the banks are closed and I can't get pymt confirmation, and USPS is closed too.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 13, 2008, 10:51:20 AM

Here's a first look at a pair of each. I was surprised that the faceplate was almost 1/4" thick.

index.php/fa/10142/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on October 13, 2008, 10:52:57 AM

I like those TNC Logo meters!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 13, 2008, 11:02:09 AM

I got a report that China messed up with the rack mount holes. A clear violation of rack-101. It was reported that the holes don't line up (verticaly). I have 2 types of rack rail. One has equally spaced holes, and the other has 2 close together then one. I'll have to try both. The report was that you can mount them just fine, but you have to leave a gap between them. I remember I had this same problem with my Phase Linear 400 amp and their preamp.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 13, 2008, 11:08:57 AM

the 1200

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 13, 2008, 11:11:00 AM

A TnC collection

index.php/fa/10145/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on October 13, 2008, 11:11:19 AM

Hey, are the High and Low Shelves positionally transposed on the 81 (and the HF shelf unmarked on the 73?)?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on October 13, 2008, 11:14:11 AM

OOOOOO! Nice!!!!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 13, 2008, 11:16:19 AM

zmix wrote on Mon, 13 October 2008 08:11

Hey, are the High and Low Shelves positionally transposed on the 81 (and the HF shelf unmarked on the 73?)?

I'll get a closer look later

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on October 13, 2008, 11:34:26 AM

Yeah, the meters are super sexy.

Can't freakin' wait.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rodabod on October 13, 2008, 12:38:27 PM

That's great getting the pictures, Chance. If anyone gets the opportunity, a shot of the inside of an '81 (or other preamp) would be very handy.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 13, 2008, 12:48:14 PM

rodabod wrote on Mon, 13 October 2008 09:38

That's great getting the pictures, Chance. If anyone gets the opportunity, a shot of the inside of an '81 (or other preamp) would be very handy.

I think someone is already on that.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 13, 2008, 02:01:04 PM

zmix wrote on Mon, 13 October 2008 08:11

Hey, are the High and Low Shelves positionally transposed on the 81 (and the HF shelf unmarked on the 73?)?

copy/pasted from another board:
"e:
Originally Posted by chance View Post
I am not near these pres right now, but heres a question that came up on another board. Maybe Bill could check.

"Hey, are the High and Low Shelves positionally transposed on the 81 (and the HF shelf unmarked on the 73?)?"

Chance - I think I understand the question, but let me take a shot at it.

the 73 - the High Shelf IS marked but it is in very small print and directly below the knob, so it's not obvious if you're slightly above the unit.

The 81 - I've never used an 81, so I'm not sure what is technically "right" or
"wrong" but this EQ is kind of confusing. At the left you have the HPF and LPF filters. HPF on L and LPF on right - just as I would expect, Then with the individual bands it does seem backwards - HI shelf on the L followed by two bands of peak/dip type EQ with the LF on the far right. Weird....

One note on the 81, that maybe someone can explain to me. On the high band shelf there is a button that is marked "- -" The same buttons on the other bands switch between high and low Q on the mid bands and between peak/dip and shelving on the Low band. Any ideas what "- -" means??

The 84 - these filters are REVERSED from the 81. Very strange. What were they thinking?? Is this how the originals were - I can't remember. Still....clearly marked and unmistakeable if you use your "eyes".

Going from an 81 to an 84 is going to be confusing for a newbie. The layout is a bit strange but definately workable once you've used it.

For instance, sometimes the Freq Select detented knob is closer to the output knob than it is to the boost/cut for that band. Again, some may never have noticed it. But I did"

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on October 13, 2008, 02:16:04 PM

So the 1200 is the same as an *OTHER BRAND* etc? it looks identical. I have a couple OTHER-s already and do like them for what they are. I guess a couple more will be nice especially if I end up modifying them. I had thought that they were going to be a different mic tho. But it's cool if that's what they are.
As far as rack mounting goes, I always leave a 1/2 space between gear to help ventilate anyways so as long as it mounts properly it shouldn't be a problem.
I'm a little scared of what the shipping is going to be as I ordered 2 of almost everything. duh...
Oh well what the hell it'll be fun to have a whole pile of stuff that didn't cost much (at least before paying for shipping to Canada).
Canadian dollar down to 87 cents from par.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 13, 2008, 02:28:20 PM

Les Ismore wrote on Mon, 13 October 2008 11:16

So the 1200 is the same as an *OTHER BRAND* etc? it looks identical.

If they are, I must answer "no comment;" but since I don't have that brand, I can safely say "I don't know."

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on October 13, 2008, 03:44:39 PM

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 13 October 2008 14:01

zmix wrote on Mon, 13 October 2008 08:11

Hey, are the High and Low Shelves positionally transposed on the 81 (and the HF shelf unmarked on the 73?)?

Well, on the "originals" (you know, in the neavey consoles) the controls were oriented - vertically - ... Rolling Eyes

However, when people do rack mount a module horizontally they normally orient the frequency bands in the standard Low to High Left to Right format (like a piano..!).

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Brian Kehew on October 13, 2008, 04:44:54 PM

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 13 October 2008 07:02

If so, I'll suggest people try a little home surgery, with a dremel or drill - and enlarge the holes (slightly, is all you'll need) to make it fit). Visually, if this is accurate, they look a little close to the top and bottom - so you'd just ream it out a little more towards the other hole. Should work fine. I'll be a guinea pig for this, as I'm not picky about ultra-perfection and modifying my stuff...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Brian Kehew on October 13, 2008, 04:49:16 PM

CHANCE wrote on Fri, 10 October 2008 15:29

Steve Folta wrote on Thu, 09 October 2008 14:06

Berolzheimer wrote on Thu, 09 October 2008 13:41

Chance I think I may head over for a Sunday afternoon pickup, is that a good time for you? If there are still boxes to be moved my (13 y/o) son & I can pitch in.

Yeah, what's the procedure for us locals? I never got even the preliminary shipping email, presumably because I'm local. But I'm waiting to learn how and when I can pick up my order (mics only).

Hey Steve. you're only a few miles from here
I'll check your order and see if I can have it here for you on Sunday

As for ALL the locals, can we post something or arrange something to (a) make a pickup as a group at one time, or (B - better) someone stand-in and get them for us, who we can meet later? It would save a lot of people asking you for times and phone numbers, etc. Thanks!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Crash on October 13, 2008, 04:51:13 PM

Brian, I believe DrBill figured out he was having issues due to the type of rails he was using. i believe when he went with a more standard rail in a different rack, it all fit fine. This issue may be a non issue. Here is the statement from another forum:

Chance - yup. I think you nailed it. This rack has some weird type of rail in it. Upon first look, it seems fine, but they are just not lining up after awhile. I've never seen anything like it before. Never knew there were two different specs for rail spacing. Learn something every day.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on October 13, 2008, 07:02:19 PM

Have the bills/invoice for the Mics and Pres gone out yet?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 13, 2008, 07:56:14 PM

Here are the two types of rack rail I have and both were from Middle Atlantic index.php/fa/10152/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 13, 2008, 07:58:30 PM

this is the RR that seems to cause problems. You would think it would be the other way around.

index.php/fa/10153/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on October 14, 2008, 04:04:15 AM

What's with the black paint on all the mics?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on October 14, 2008, 05:36:19 AM

Les Ismore wrote on Tue, 14 October 2008 04:04

What's with the black paint on all the mics?

It looks cool. Very Goth.

Hmmm...

I wish I'd bought more stuff.

I wonder if an ADR Vocal Stressor could be cloned next time?

----------------------------------------------------------

Chance, how do we express our gratitude?
Words fail...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Tom L on October 14, 2008, 08:34:47 AM

C.Cash wrote on Mon, 13 October 2008 15:02

Have the bills/invoice for the Mics and Pres gone out yet?

I've not received any further emails since the first "Upcoming Shipping Charges" and I've been checking the console status on a daily basis.

Shipping Invoice Available: NO
Shipping Invoice Paid: NO
Items Shipped: NO

Has the email glitch been worked out so we'll know when invoices are avail for payment?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 14, 2008, 08:44:58 AM

Tom L wrote on Tue, 14 October 2008 05:34

C.Cash wrote on Mon, 13 October 2008 15:02

Have the bills/invoice for the Mics and Pres gone out yet?

We're not quite up to speed yet. You won't be invoiced until your order is packed and ready to ship. Remember there is almost 400 orders. There are a lot of orders ready to ship but the post office and banks were closed yesterday so I couldn't verify payments or ship. I was just on the virtual terminal, and many have been settled (paid). They will ship in a day or two.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Tom L on October 14, 2008, 08:57:58 AM

CHANCE wrote on Tue, 14 October 2008 04:44

Cool. Chance, I totally appreciate the magnitude of what you're doing. I just didn't want to miss anything or slow up the process by not knowing it was my time to pay.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 14, 2008, 09:54:07 AM

Brian Kehew wrote on Mon, 13 October 2008 13:49

CHANCE wrote on Fri, 10 October 2008 15:29

Steve Folta wrote on Thu, 09 October 2008 14:06

Berolzheimer wrote on Thu, 09 October 2008 13:41

Chance I think I may head over for a Sunday afternoon pickup, is that a good time for you? If there are still boxes to be moved my (13 y/o) son & I can pitch in.

Yeah, what's the procedure for us locals? I never got even the preliminary shipping email, presumably because I'm local. But I'm waiting to learn how and when I can pick up my order (mics only).

Hey Steve. you're only a few miles from here
I'll check your order and see if I can have it here for you on Sunday

As I would love meeting all of you, This seems like a practical idea. I am up for it, don't know how to put it together, but I would need some advanced notice, so I can have everything here ready. Lemme nough. (what ever happened to that guy?)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on October 14, 2008, 11:14:53 AM

CHANCE wrote on Tue, 14 October 2008 09:54

Lemme nough. (what ever happened to that guy?)

Alive and well. The new Motorhead album is actually quite good musically. A return to classic Motorhead form in some regards. Not overly thrilled with the recording it self, however it too is somewhat a return to the NWOBHM form.

If it's on in the car I always have to check my speed, which IMHO, is a sign of some quality.

There is also a documentary about Lemme about to see the light of day. Some clips on youTube here and there about it.

I have to say he has always been and always will be.........a rocker. To that I salute him (insert goat here).

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on October 14, 2008, 11:22:56 AM

I think that Chance was referring to Lewis Dean, a frequent poster here on the Pro Sound Web AKA Die BREMSSPUR

AKA tik / t(h)ik

Lewis always signed his posts with the laibach-esque phrase "lemme nough" (let me know).

Dan-O wrote on Tue, 14 October 2008 11:14

CHANCE wrote on Tue, 14 October 2008 09:54

Lemme nough. (what ever happened to that guy?)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: MagnetoSound on October 14, 2008, 11:37:22 AM

Yes, the guy from Motorhead (and Hawkwind before that) is Lemmy.

zmix wrote on Tue, 14 October 2008 16:22

Dan-O wrote on Tue, 14 October 2008 11:14

CHANCE wrote on Tue, 14 October 2008 09:54

Lemme nough. (what ever happened to that guy?)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Nick Sevilla on October 14, 2008, 11:47:43 AM

CHANCE wrote on Tue, 14 October 2008 06:54

Brian Kehew wrote on Mon, 13 October 2008 13:49

CHANCE wrote on Fri, 10 October 2008 15:29

Steve Folta wrote on Thu, 09 October 2008 14:06

Berolzheimer wrote on Thu, 09 October 2008 13:41

Chance I think I may head over for a Sunday afternoon pickup, is that a good time for you? If there are still boxes to be moved my (13 y/o) son & I can pitch in.

Yeah, what's the procedure for us locals? I never got even the preliminary shipping email, presumably because I'm local. But I'm waiting to learn how and when I can pick up my order (mics only).

Hey Steve. you're only a few miles from here
I'll check your order and see if I can have it here for you on Sunday

Count me in on a group pickup / meeting session. Usually weekends are better than weekdays, but I'm open for an evening weekday, if that is what ends up happening.

Nick

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on October 14, 2008, 02:03:42 PM

zmix wrote on Tue, 14 October 2008 11:22

Dan-O wrote on Tue, 14 October 2008 11:14

CHANCE wrote on Tue, 14 October 2008 09:54

Lemme nough. (what ever happened to that guy?)

I see.

Many in my circle of freinds have been using the "Lemme nough" signature for years so I foolishly put two and too together here.

Lemmy (yes we nough it's a y) still rocks however...(insert goat here).

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on October 14, 2008, 02:10:28 PM

[quote title=MagnetoSound wrote on Tue, 14 October 2008 11:37]
Yes, the guy from Motorhead (and Hawkwind before that) is Lemmy.

zmix wrote on Tue, 14 October 2008 16:22

Dan-O wrote on Tue, 14 October 2008 11:14

CHANCE wrote on Tue, 14 October 2008 09:54

Lemme nough. (what ever happened to that guy?)

Yes with a "y". We nough (with a k and and a w) Smile

Briefly with Hawkwind after being their roadie for a bit IIRC. Wrote the song "Motorhead" while in Hawkwind as well I belive. I like both versions.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on October 14, 2008, 03:03:22 PM

Nick Sevilla wrote on Tue, 14 October 2008 08:47

CHANCE wrote on Tue, 14 October 2008 06:54

Brian Kehew wrote on Mon, 13 October 2008 13:49

CHANCE wrote on Fri, 10 October 2008 15:29

Steve Folta wrote on Thu, 09 October 2008 14:06

Berolzheimer wrote on Thu, 09 October 2008 13:41

Chance I think I may head over for a Sunday afternoon pickup, is that a good time for you? If there are still boxes to be moved my (13 y/o) son & I can pitch in.

Yeah, what's the procedure for us locals? I never got even the preliminary shipping email, presumably because I'm local. But I'm waiting to learn how and when I can pick up my order (mics only).

Hey Steve. you're only a few miles from here
I'll check your order and see if I can have it here for you on Sunday

Count me in on a group pickup / meeting session. Usually weekends are better than weekdays, but I'm open for an evening weekday, if that is what ends up happening.

Nick

Me too. I had volunteered to do the pickup but I'm getting pretty darned busy, anyone else?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 14, 2008, 03:11:20 PM

Berolzheimer wrote on Tue, 14 October 2008 12:03

but I'm getting pretty darned busy, anyone else?

Huh? LOL

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Brian Kehew on October 14, 2008, 03:57:53 PM

I am leaving SAT for a tour, so that leaves me out. Anyone in the LA area wanna get their stuff NOW and pick up some for the rest of us. Otherwise, I'll drive over to get mine if possible, anyday this week... just trying to save Chance some time by grouping things.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: reverendray on October 15, 2008, 12:37:56 AM

Hello
I'm in B.C which would make me one of the USPS problems. I have an producer engineer son living in Calabasis that I could send over if it would make life a little easier for you. I have mics and pres coming. Whatever Works. I am very grateful for your efforts Chance...Ray

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 15, 2008, 08:08:25 AM

I've had a few things that are slowing the shipping process down. For example, there will be similar orders from a Mike Smith, and Bill Smith. Then I get a payment from a Mary Smith. Without spending a LOT of time researching each order, I have no way of knowing who Mary is related to. There are many "Smith's, Mills, and Jones. I am basically just getting up to speed and have run into this twice so far. We have about 50 boxes that are shipping on Thursday. The first of many.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Tom L on October 15, 2008, 08:37:16 AM

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 15 October 2008 04:08

... There are many "Smith's, Mills, and Jones. I am basically just getting up to speed...

keeping up with the Smiths and Joneses I see Smile

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: against88 on October 15, 2008, 12:29:26 PM

not sure if this is MORE of a pain (or perhaps slightly unfair...but we'd all forgive that since you are busting YOUR ass for US). perhaps you could only process one invoice per last name at a time, and wait till that invoice is paid before moving on. unfair to the second person, but less of a headache for you.

i'm stoked and waiting patiently

-w

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: ScotcH on October 15, 2008, 12:36:05 PM

Lol ... this is where a lst name like mine actually HELPS Smile

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on October 15, 2008, 01:40:16 PM

can we change the color to pink?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on October 15, 2008, 01:43:18 PM

Hmmmm…. This is sounding like I might be waiting a few weeks for my pres. I’m in Santa Clarita. Anyone else out here in the desert that would like to split the gas, save a tree, and carpool? If so, PM me or e-mail me at chrisproducer(remove this text and put an "@")gmail(put a "." here)com.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Crash on October 15, 2008, 01:52:45 PM

drBill can't post this over here for saome reason so here it is from another forum:

Originally Posted by drBill
Chance and others -

Just an update on the rack spacing thing as I see many on PSW seem to have the wrong impression and I can't seem to log on there or get registered for whatever reason.

I have tried TWO commercially built racks, and neither of them will house more than 3 ACMP's stacked right on top of each other. Dremeling out the holes may work for the 3rd unit, but by the time you get to the 5th or 6th unit, you will be completely thru the faceplate. It's THAT far off.

I feel like I'm in some weird episode of the Twilight Zone. I've built or helped build many many studio's in my life, with rack gear numbering in the hundreds, and I've never run into a problem quite like this.

Maybe both these racks have weird spacing on the holes. One seems equidistant, and the other has some subtle differences in the spacing, (not like the picture shown by chance) but both have the same issue. But I really don't think that the spacinig of the holes is the complete issue, because I cheated the top units all the way towards the top, and the bottom units all the way towards the bottom, and I couldn't even WEDGE a blank spacer inbetween them. Maybe if I wasn't worried about scratching them I could have taken a hammer and knocked it in, but I chose not to do that.

My solution was 2 units, space, repeat - no blanks in the spaces.

Am I missing something here??

I generally use pre-fab HARDWOOD rack rails when possible (for superior ground isolation issues) and have never had this problem, but these are going into a portable (kinda, but it's HEAVY. Did I mention these were HEAVY??? ) rack that needs metal rails.

At this point I have about (10) 20 space racks filled in my studio - no problems other than the normal tight fits. So.........am I in the twighlight zone and if so, how do I get out???

PS - maybe someone can post this over on PSW thread to help out.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 15, 2008, 01:57:35 PM

The first person to receive the pres is trying to register for PSW, but is having trouble doing so. He is following this topic here and here is some first impressions from another board.


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That would be prefered
I tried several tiimes, but PSW is not sending me my email confirmation, so I can't get on.
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Chance and others -

Just an update on the rack spacing thing as I see many on PSW seem to have the wrong impression and I can't seem to log on there or get registered for whatever reason.

I have tried TWO commercially built racks, and neither of them will house more than 3 ACMP's stacked right on top of each other. Dremeling out the holes may work for the 3rd unit, but by the time you get to the 5th or 6th unit, you will be completely thru the faceplate. It's THAT far off.

I feel like I'm in some weird episode of the Twilight Zone. I've built or helped build many many studio's in my life, with rack gear numbering in the hundreds, and I've never run into a problem quite like this.

Maybe both these racks have weird spacing on the holes. One seems equidistant, and the other has some subtle differences in the spacing, (not like the picture shown by chance) but both have the same issue. But I really don't think that the spacinig of the holes is the complete issue, because I cheated the top units all the way towards the top, and the bottom units all the way towards the bottom, and I couldn't even WEDGE a blank spacer inbetween them. Maybe if I wasn't worried about scratching them I could have taken a hammer and knocked it in, but I chose not to do that.

My solution was 2 units, space, repeat - no blanks in the spaces.

Am I missing something here??

I generally use pre-fab HARDWOOD rack rails when possible (for superior ground isolation issues) and have never had this problem, but these are going into a portable (kinda, but it's HEAVY. Did I mention these were HEAVY??? ) rack that needs metal rails.

At this point I have about (10) 20 space racks filled in my studio - no problems other than the normal tight fits. So.........am I in the twighlight zone and if so, how do I get out???

PS - maybe someone can post this over on PSW thread to help out.

bp
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Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on October 15, 2008, 03:25:53 PM

ScotcH wrote on Wed, 15 October 2008 09:36

Lol ... this is where a lst name like mine actually HELPS Smile

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: duckhunter on October 15, 2008, 03:49:59 PM

You've got them upside down.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on October 15, 2008, 04:25:30 PM

Originally Posted by drBill

Chance and others -

Just an update on the rack spacing thing as I see many on PSW seem to have the wrong impression and I can't seem to log on there or get registered for whatever reason.

I have tried TWO commercially built racks, and neither of them will house more than 3 ACMP's stacked right on top of each other. Dremeling out the holes may work for the 3rd unit, but by the time you get to the 5th or 6th unit, you will be completely thru the faceplate. It's THAT far off.

I feel like I'm in some weird episode of the Twilight Zone. I've built or helped build many many studio's in my life, with rack gear numbering in the hundreds, and I've never run into a problem quite like this.

Maybe both these racks have weird spacing on the holes. One seems equidistant, and the other has some subtle differences in the spacing, (not like the picture shown by chance) but both have the same issue. But I really don't think that the spacinig of the holes is the complete issue, because I cheated the top units all the way towards the top, and the bottom units all the way towards the bottom, and I couldn't even WEDGE a blank spacer inbetween them. Maybe if I wasn't worried about scratching them I could have taken a hammer and knocked it in, but I chose not to do that.

My solution was 2 units, space, repeat - no blanks in the spaces.

Am I missing something here??

I generally use pre-fab HARDWOOD rack rails when possible (for superior ground isolation issues) and have never had this problem, but these are going into a portable (kinda, but it's HEAVY. Did I mention these were HEAVY??? ) rack that needs metal rails.

At this point I have about (10) 20 space racks filled in my studio - no problems other than the normal tight fits. So.........am I in the twighlight zone and if so, how do I get out???

PS - maybe someone can post this over on PSW thread to help out.

Chance,

Don't make us rely on customer speculation and innuendo for something this important and this simple to resolve.

Could someone please get out their micrometer and MEASURE the height of the faceplate and the spacing from edge to the holes, as well as the spacing between the holes....

Look up the following standards:

EIA-310-D

IEC 60297

index.php/fa/10163/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 15, 2008, 06:56:11 PM

I took out my trusty vernier calipers, and while not knowing the correct dimensions, I A/B'd it side by side with a known single space piece. They are identical in height, width, and vertical, as well as horizontal, hole spacing.

index.php/fa/10164/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Crash on October 16, 2008, 09:38:11 AM

So, we can assume that there must be an issue with the rack the drBill is using. Once these hit some other hands the issues, or non-issues, should become apparent I would think. maybe drBill can take some pics to post of his pres, if for nothing else, just the sheer gearporn factor....

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on October 16, 2008, 10:55:07 AM

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 15 October 2008 18:56

Chance, I posted the correct dimensions above... have you racked these yourself in multiple?

I hope that it's simply an operator error....!

PS: I have heard this same complaint from people using the Chameleon Labs preamps...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 16, 2008, 01:17:31 PM

I haven't tried mounting three together, but I did compare it in detail to several one sp rack pieces and they are identical. I checked in all my racks, and I don't have any three sp pieces together.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 16, 2008, 01:28:30 PM

Anyone planning to drop over this weekend to pick up their gear, E-mail me ("WEEKEND" in the subject header) as I am going to the warehouse at 0-dark 30 tomorrow morning, and I'll bring your gear back with me for pick up on Sunday.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: matti on October 16, 2008, 02:56:42 PM

From drBill

OK. This is for the PSW guys if someone could cross post it for me. Even after 48 hours, I still haven't received my confirmation email that will allow me to post over there. Their CP says I will receive it "in a few minutes".

Re: Rack rails, ACMP's, etc.

I can assure you that user error is not involved. Like I said, I've racked probably hundreds of pieces of gear over the last 2 decades and something is weird here. The ONE thing that I don't normally do is use metal prefab rack rails though, so I'm open to the fact that I'M doing something stupid here......but I don't think so.

Mounting more than 3 of the ACMP's next to each other is impossible. At least in the TWO commercial racks that I purchased. Both racks were manufactured for the music/audio industries and have metal rails. So it goes to figure that if others have racks manufactured for music/audio purposes, SOME of them may have problems as well.

It may be the height of the ACMP, it may be the mounting hole spacing in the ACMP's, it may be that BOTH my racks have the wrong type of rails in them, but SOMETHING is going on that NON-STANDARD.

Why would an 8 space rack not be able to fit 6 acmp's and 2 blank panels?? Even with the blank panels not screwed in?? I couldn't even WEDGE them in between. I'm going to post up a pic of them mounted in rack when i can get my hands on my camera.

It seems that most of the chatter about this is over on the PSW board, so if someone could cross post this for me it would be appreciated. Also, does anyone know how I can actually get PSW to respond and send me a confirmation email so I can post over there??

Thx.

bp

Side note - you guys are going to LOVE your pre's!!! Did I happen to mention that they are HEAVY!!!!

Matti

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 16, 2008, 02:56:52 PM

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OK. This is for the PSW guys if someone could cross post it for me. Even after 48 hours, I still haven't received my confirmation email that will allow me to post over there. Their CP says I will receive it "in a few minutes".

Re: Rack rails, ACMP's, etc.

I can assure you that user error is not involved. Like I said, I've racked probably hundreds of pieces of gear over the last 2 decades and something is weird here. The ONE thing that I don't normally do is use metal prefab rack rails though, so I'm open to the fact that I'M doing something stupid here......but I don't think so.

Mounting more than 3 of the ACMP's next to each other is impossible. At least in the TWO commercial racks that I purchased. Both racks were manufactured for the music/audio industries and have metal rails. So it goes to figure that if others have racks manufactured for music/audio purposes, SOME of them may have problems as well.

It may be the height of the ACMP, it may be the mounting hole spacing in the ACMP's, it may be that BOTH my racks have the wrong type of rails in them, but SOMETHING is going on that NON-STANDARD.

Why would an 8 space rack not be able to fit 6 acmp's and 2 blank panels?? Even with the blank panels not screwed in?? I couldn't even WEDGE them in between. I'm going to post up a pic of them mounted in rack when i can get my hands on my camera.

It seems that most of the chatter about this is over on the PSW board, so if someone could cross post this for me it would be appreciated. Also, does anyone know how I can actually get PSW to respond and send me a confirmation email so I can post over there??

Thx.

bp

Side note - you guys are going to LOVE your pre's!!! Did I happen to mention that they are HEAVY!!!! "

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 16, 2008, 03:14:01 PM

I don't understand this. the ACMP's dimensions are identical to all my single sp gear. I have several single sp TC Helicon pieces and the face dimensions are a carbon copy. If it wasn't so much work, I would try putting 3 of the TC pieces together. Wait, I'll try putting 3 ACMP's together and post detailed pics.
Does anyone here have ANY 3 single space pieces together?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Steve Folta on October 16, 2008, 03:21:40 PM

CHANCE wrote on Thu, 16 October 2008 12:14

Does anyone here have ANY 3 single space pieces together?

Sure, I've got six 1U pieces together in my rack. As I recall, it wasn't that easy to get 'em all in there.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Crash on October 16, 2008, 03:41:13 PM

drBill's rack:
index.php/fa/10170/0/

As promised,

pics for the pre's for those that can't wait and for those who think I don't know what a rack rail is..... If someone can bump this over to PSW I'm sure it will be appreciated.

So,

There you have it. I'm not concerned about the rack spacing issues, but I just thought you guys might like to know.

I'm a HAPPY camper right now. Can't wait til next week when I'll be tracking drums thru this rig!!!!!!

Cheers,

bp

PS - anyone have a clue why I haven't received a confirmation registration email from PSW after 2 days?????

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Crash on October 16, 2008, 03:48:38 PM

drBill's rails..up close

index.php/fa/10171/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on October 16, 2008, 03:53:38 PM

Sweet! I cant bellieve I only ordered 2 of the 73's Sad

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on October 16, 2008, 04:01:41 PM

As I understand it, spec height of one space is 1.75".

I measured a bunch around here (using a metal tape measure with the end metal tab placed on top...I know this is not scientific, but it's what I had handy), and most were between 1 + 44/64, and 1 + 46/64 in height. The Chameleon 7602's were 1 + 47/64, so ever so slightly larger, but still within what I thought was the spec.

I have a 4 space Anvil-type rack (Keel Case) with prefab metal rails, and two 1u Chameleon 7602's, one 1u blank rack spacer, and the 1u PSU all fit in, albeit very snugly.

I don't have any TNC's, so I can't check those.

drBill, I will try to see about your reg, thanks for your input.

T

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Tom L on October 16, 2008, 05:25:12 PM

I've seen many racks that used EIA standard rails but were a tight or impossible fit if the rails were mounted slightly skewed or perhaps the rack itself twisted. Also, even if the holes are correct, if the measured height is a FULL 1.75" it'll make mounting difficult. Either or a combination of the two might explain the squeeze.

Not doubting anyone's experience. Just my $0.02 worth of info

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rankus on October 16, 2008, 05:31:27 PM

Crash wrote on Thu, 16 October 2008 12:41

PS - anyone have a clue why I haven't received a confirmation registration email from PSW after 2 days?????

Spam blocker on your end? Perhaps a typo when entering your email addy? Just a shot in the dark

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on October 16, 2008, 05:57:11 PM

Tom L wrote on Thu, 16 October 2008 14:25

I've seen many rack that used EIA standard rails but were a tight or impossible fit if the rails were mounted slightly skewed or perhaps the rack itself twisted. Also, even if the holes are correct, if the measured height is a FULL 1.75" it'll make mounting difficult. Either or a combination of the two might explain the squeeze.

Not doubting anyone's experience. Just my $0.02 worth of info

Good Points.

I have two specific pieces that cannot be mounted together in a specific order. Piece A cannot be mounted immediately above Piece B. Any other configuration seems to be fine.

These two pieces both have screws in exactly the same places, one on the top and one on the bottom. They certainly appear to be below the edge of the unit rack ear height, but in the A above B config, the two screw head meet, and you just can't put them together that way.

I can't seem to make sense out of the fact that two of those units will mount flush, but not the third. Of course, I haven't seen them yet, so... anything is possible is what I'm saying. Smile

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 16, 2008, 07:30:17 PM

COMING SOON!--- TnC RACK RAIL

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on October 16, 2008, 09:52:13 PM

Cool - can I buy just one? Very Happy

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: mattrussell on October 16, 2008, 09:53:06 PM

i try to leave a space between pieces of gear to keep the temp down. amazing how hot pre's can get.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on October 16, 2008, 11:01:14 PM

willowhaus wrote on Fri, 17 October 2008 12:52

Cool - can I buy just one? Very Happy

For which side?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on October 16, 2008, 11:12:04 PM

See, it's a public service.

TNC are forcing you to keep your gear cool.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: recordinghacks on October 17, 2008, 01:13:11 AM

CHANCE wrote on Thu, 16 October 2008 16:30

COMING SOON!--- TnC RACK RAIL

Ha!

"Sure, we'll sell the mic pre's at cost. The rack rails? Oh, they're $500."

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cameron_k on October 17, 2008, 02:27:25 AM

compasspnt wrote on Fri, 17 October 2008 13:12

See, it's a public service.

TNC are forcing you to keep your gear cool.

ACMP = a cool mic pre

ACMP = a caring management profile

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Tom L on October 17, 2008, 07:45:29 AM

cameron_k wrote on Thu, 16 October 2008 22:27

compasspnt wrote on Fri, 17 October 2008 13:12

See, it's a public service.

TNC are forcing you to keep your gear cool.

ACMP = a cool mic pre

ACMP = a caring management profile

ACMP = a carefully mounted piece

ACMP = a crowbar may position

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on October 17, 2008, 08:13:54 AM

Greg Dixon wrote on Thu, 16 October 2008 22:01

willowhaus wrote on Fri, 17 October 2008 12:52

Cool - can I buy just one? Very Happy

For which side?

They go on the sides? Shocked

* * * * * * * * * * * *

ACMP = Ancient Chinese Manufacturing Process

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on October 17, 2008, 01:50:29 PM

willowhaus wrote on Fri, 17 October 2008 07:13

ACMP = Ancient Chinese Manufacturing Process

If I were drinking milk, it would have come out of my nose.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Kris on October 17, 2008, 01:56:29 PM

Not all invoices have gone out correct?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on October 17, 2008, 04:54:29 PM

Some may have been incorrect.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on October 17, 2008, 04:56:17 PM

That was a joke.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Barkley McKay on October 17, 2008, 05:22:56 PM

drBill has posted some inside shots.

plenty of detail.

http://homerecording.com/bbs/showthread.php?t=180964&pag e=233

barks

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: MagnetoSound on October 17, 2008, 05:40:49 PM

Kris wrote on Fri, 17 October 2008 18:56

Not all invoices have gone out correct?

I was going to point out the missing comma ...

but it was too tempting not to!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Tom L on October 17, 2008, 07:28:37 PM

compasspnt wrote on Fri, 17 October 2008 12:54

Some may have been incorrect.

Accounting Complications May Persist?

That was a joke too Smile

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on October 18, 2008, 09:17:06 AM

Anybody feedback on the pres from those who have them?

Regarding sound that is.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on October 18, 2008, 09:40:35 AM

Update? Are we still sitting tight? I'm about to pee in my pants. Razz

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 18, 2008, 10:30:38 AM

Last night I sent out a lot of invoices. These are labeled and ready to ship. If shipping payment isn't received by Thursday, the label will expire and that order will go to the end of the line and be put in storage.
I feel that it's not fair to the others who are ready and waiting and to be put on hold.

On another note the shipping info that you provided when you ordered is where the gear will be shipped. If you updated your shipping info before I gave this info to the shipper, you're OK. I posted some time ago to up date your ship info. This is out of my hands. This is automated and the people who are packing and shipping, send me the number of packages, the weight, and dimensions, I then input this info in my Fed Ex account (which has your shipping address you provided) and I print out the label and you are billed. This was set up this way (thanks Randy) so this process will run smooth and fast. (remember last time?)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: organica on October 18, 2008, 11:14:45 AM

Dan-O wrote on Sat, 18 October 2008 09:17

Anybody feedback on the pres from those who have them?

Regarding sound that is.

A common database resource to research or share findings/reviews ect... would be helpful . I remember hoping to learn of others discoveries with the AMC-3 a while back . It was a challenge .

Chance , would you please drop what you're doing and get to work on this ?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 18, 2008, 11:58:26 AM

I just got an Email from someone who has moved. You will be notified by the shipper (Fed Ups or Usex) when the order has shipped. It will have to be your responsibility to notify the shipper of an address change.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Kris on October 18, 2008, 11:58:50 AM

You, ... bastards! (Dead serious Razz

)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on October 18, 2008, 04:50:48 PM

groundhog wrote on Sat, 18 October 2008 11:14

Dan-O wrote on Sat, 18 October 2008 09:17

Anybody feedback on the pres from those who have them?

Regarding sound that is.

I think it fairly obvious I wasn't referring to, nor suggesting anything on Chance's part here just to be clear. Nor am I asking for compilation or compendium of resource material on the subject. Rolling Eyes

My post was to those active members of various forums who have picked up our received their orders, and now had possession of the pres for more than a few days now. Obviously some have been racked (with some difficulty so it seems) and I'm sure by now must have been put in use.

Since some of us are still waiting for shipping invoices to be sent, my self included, I was merely looking for user opinion. I'm just as excited about it as anyone else so sue me.

If I’m incorrect in reading our post I apologize. It seems you've misunderstood mine and I wanted to clarify.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: thinman on October 18, 2008, 05:34:06 PM

Dan-O wrote on Sat, 18 October 2008 15:50

groundhog wrote on Sat, 18 October 2008 11:14

Dan-O wrote on Sat, 18 October 2008 09:17

Anybody feedback on the pres from those who have them?

Regarding sound that is.

Just my take, but I didn't read groundhog's post as accusatory toward you at all; but as merely a joke playing on how busy Chance must be right now. Nor did I take your post as expecting anything of Chance. In fact, I was glad you asked it because, like you, I have not received my shipping invoice yet, so I am excited for any news at all about how these pres outperform all others, including the original Neves.

.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: organica on October 18, 2008, 06:30:44 PM

thinman wrote on Sat, 18 October 2008 17:34

that's right ...... again , " A common resource to research or share findings .. "=helpfull

Perhaps JJ's Acid Test forum would be a good spot for such info .

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: thinman on October 18, 2008, 09:10:28 PM

Quote:

Perhaps JJ's Acid Test forum would be a good spot for such info .

I like that idea. Unless J.J.'s forum is limited to high end only. Perhap's teh man himself will let us know.
.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: thinman on October 18, 2008, 09:20:17 PM

compasspnt wrote on Fri, 17 October 2008 15:56

That was a joke.

Thanks for the correction.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: thinman on October 18, 2008, 09:32:56 PM

J-Texas wrote on Sat, 18 October 2008 08:40

Update? Are we still sitting tight? I'm about to pee in my pants. Razz

Jason, milk coming out your nose and now this? Man, you're sitting TOO tight.

.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 18, 2008, 09:41:31 PM

Dr. Bill
Try a different browser

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: mattrussell on October 19, 2008, 10:14:41 AM

CHANCE wrote on Sat, 18 October 2008 10:30

chance, when did you submit the info? pretty sure i made it long before this took place, but i have no idea when you sent it over to them.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 19, 2008, 01:05:15 PM

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 17 September 2008 06:34

According to this post it was Sept 17th

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Barkley McKay on October 19, 2008, 01:29:21 PM

Just noticed that I cannot log into my user console with Firefox anymore, though Safari seems to be fine.

It was OK yesterday.

Just voicing a little concern in case Safari gets problematic and spam stops the email getting through.

I've also had far too much coffee today...

barks

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 19, 2008, 01:59:44 PM

Hey!
I have run into some problems and this has happened more than a few times, and we've only just STARTED shipping.

Sam I. Am had made an order and paid for it. So did Joe Blow.. Now when I invoiced Sam's order for shipping, I get a payment from Joe whom I didn't even invoice yet!. After spending a LOT of valuable time trying to get this straightened out, I find out that Joe was paying for Sam's order.

Please keep all payments sync'd to the original information you entered in the beginning.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Barkley McKay on October 19, 2008, 02:06:19 PM

Barkley McKay wrote on Sun, 19 October 2008 18:29

Ok, got it sussed.

Copy the link and paste with no other browser windows open. It doesn't seem to like working with tabs.

Bookmarked now.

this was probably already mentioned so a big "DOH!" from me.

barks

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TB-AV on October 19, 2008, 05:04:31 PM

One thing I noticed when trying to log in is that if you type your info and click "enter" on your keyboard it simply loops around to a blank login screen.

Click the "Login" button and it works.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 20, 2008, 08:46:42 AM

Yesterday (Sunday) we had around 14 pick ups. It was great meeting with you all.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on October 20, 2008, 08:49:57 AM

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 20 October :46

Yesterday (Sunday) we had around 14 pick ups. It was great meeting with you all.

How cool.

Wish I could have been there too to meet everyone.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Barkley McKay on October 20, 2008, 09:08:01 AM

You're welcome in Leeds anytime!

barks

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on October 20, 2008, 10:55:41 AM

Well, I was one of the lucky folks who picked up their gear yesterday. My wife and I drove the 3 hours roundtrip and hit IKEA on the way Razz

It was great meeting Chance and it was like Christmas when I was 10 years old!

Unfortunately, it seems I’m the first one to stumble into some defective units Crying or Very Sad

Both of my 81s exhibit major buzz when the EQ is engaged. It's loud enough that they are unusable with the EQ. Happens both with mic and line-level. I tried using it on an insert for a vocal with compression following... almost made me pee my pants.

Anyway, it's not subtle. I made a test recording mic -> pre -> converter of just me talking and switching the EQ in and out; no compression. My wife (who has no audio ability or knowledge and is in fact tone deaf) spotted the buzz faster than the attack time on an 1176 every time it came on... her exact words, "Ooooooh, that's not right is it? That's bad. That's audible, that's really audible. That sucks!"

I'm assuming this is a defect; I can't imagine any preamp on the planet could make this much buzz. They both make the buzz, but one is slightly louder and a little bassier. Twist the EQ knobs and the buzz changes. But with the EQ disengaged, they seem fine.

So what's the procedure Chance?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on October 20, 2008, 11:12:00 AM

My lump of coal in my stocking luck aside, I think everyone will be really happy. They look damn good. The knobs are WAY better than I was expecting, the frequency knobs are smooth and click satisfactorily, the boost/cut knobs have resistance and a center detent. I was VERY surprised at the pot quality! Minor issue: both of mine had some boost/cut pots that weren’t quite aligned (ie. ‘zero’ was slightly clockwise from zero), but that’s fairly common with inexpensive gear and I was planning on remarking them anyway so I have accurate recallability. None of the little buttons are lose and the fact that they light up when engaged is very very cool. Did I mention that they look damn good? I can confirm that they are slightly taller than any of my other pieces of gear by about 1/32 to 2/32 inch. I had one empty rack space that I tried to shove one in for kicks – nuthin’ doin’. So I’ll probably need three empty spaces for the pair (assuming, of course, they get replaced with working ones LOL). The buzz problem kind of killed any serious testing, but the preamp section sounds pretty good. I had a GT Brick that I used to confirm my trouble shooting process so I did get to compare a little with some talking. The Brick seemed smoother on top and was just barely more hissy. The 81 seemed more hi-frequency present, but without the same smoothness, but good sounding (just different). It did have a similar in-your-face kind of feel. But I caution, this was just a first impression and really I wasn’t paying that much attention as I was trying to deal with the crazy EQ buzz at the time.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 20, 2008, 11:14:31 AM

I'll check out an 81 here later today and send you another with a return label to ship the defective one back. This is the reason I got some extras. There are several 81's out there and are OK

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on October 20, 2008, 11:26:13 AM

chris carter wrote on Mon, 20 October 2008 10:55

Well, I was one of the lucky folks who picked up their gear yesterday. My wife and I drove the 3 hours roundtrip and hit IKEA on the way Razz

It was great meeting Chance and it was like Christmas when I was 10 years old!

Unfortunately, it seems I’m the first one to stumble into some defective units Crying or Very Sad

Chris,

All inductor based EQ will be susceptible to AC induced EMI interferance, the inductors are much like a single coil guitar pickup in that respect.

It is very likely that you will hear hum in the EQ on these if they are placed in a rack near gear with internal power supplies. I see that the ACMP series use torroidal power transformers which have minimal EMI radiation.

Can you test the EQ - out - of the rack?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 20, 2008, 11:33:24 AM

Thanks Chuck. Chris Let me know ASAP. I just spoke to someone who got 12 of the 81's and he checked them before he racked them and they're all fine.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on October 20, 2008, 11:53:35 AM

It wasn't even in the rack 'cause I have to make space LOL. It was just sitting on the floor (and later on a chair). Both of them did the same thing, although the tone of the buzz was slightly different. I also tried plugging into two separate power strips (although both come off of the Monster Power Pro 3500, which powers the whole studio). I also tried multiple cables just for kicks. I even threw the cell phone out of the room LOL.

I'm open to any other thoughts or suggestions....

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on October 20, 2008, 12:03:06 PM

chris carter wrote on Mon, 20 October 2008 11:53

Chris,

Check to see if the hum changes in any way when you move the unit around.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on October 20, 2008, 12:52:46 PM

I moved one all around as far as the power cable would allow and no change in the tone or volume of the buzz. I also tried powering off everything not necessary to test, including the lights, and still no change. Interestingly, if I actually completely invert the 81 (bottom facing sky) the tone will change some, but in any upright position (even angled severely all the way through perpendicular to the floor) there is no change.

One interesting thing that might help pinpoint the problem: I get the buzz if the individual bands are in the "off" position or not. I can affect the buzz with teh boost/cut pots (regardless of "off" position). If I have the hi-mid band set to 'off' and crank the boost/cut to boosting almost the max there's a specific spot where the buzz completely goes away. There are also positions that make it CRAZY loud LOL.

I made a quick test recording. mic -> pre with bands 'off' position -> converter. I talk while pushing the EQ button in and out. You can hear the buzz come in and out as I do this. Even without any compression, it's pretty noticeable (about 6dB measuring) and this is actually the quieter of the two units. My Dell sound card makes less buzz LOL. On the plus side, without the EQ button engaged you can hear that it's a fairly quiet preamp (most of what you hear is the computer fan in a closet). I'm not sure if PSW will allow me to upload the file, but I'll try.

As you can imagine, after some compression, it's really bad. The first thing I did with the box was try it on a vocal insert point on a previous mix I'd done with compression following and it cut through all the music like a samurai sword LOL.

EDIT: can't upload to PSW. Here's a link: http://www.millraceonline.com/tnc81buzz.wav

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: tarnationsauce on October 20, 2008, 12:59:24 PM

Chance, It will be very useful if we had the schematics. Not only for future repairs, but also for modding.

When you get the time, can you ask China for the schematics? Smile

[EDIT] Chris, is the unit set to 110v?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 20, 2008, 01:10:59 PM

I think before I do anything, tonight (China's morning) I will send China a PM or call them.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on October 20, 2008, 01:20:18 PM

tarnationsauce wrote on Mon, 20 October 2008 09:59

[EDIT] Chris, is the unit set to 110v?

It's 115/230 and it actually came defaulted at 115. Just to be sure I switched all the way to 230 and then back all the way to 115 just to make sure.... no change unfortunately.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: MagnetoSound on October 20, 2008, 01:38:26 PM

http://www.millraceonline.com/tnc81buzz.wav

chris carter's wife said

Ooooooh, that's not right is it? That's bad. That's audible, that's really audible. That sucks!

What she said! Very Happy

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on October 20, 2008, 03:03:53 PM

tarnationsauce wrote on Mon, 20 October 2008 12:59

Chance, It will be very useful if we had the schematics. Not only for future repairs, but also for modding.

When you get the time, can you ask China for the schematics? Smile

[EDIT] Chris, is the unit set to 110v?

Are they different from the schematics that you yourself indicated HERE on this very forum, this very thread?:

http://recforums.prosoundweb.com/index.php/m/345571/5734/?sr ch=scem73gd2yg0.jpg#msg_345571

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rodabod on October 20, 2008, 03:09:27 PM

zmix wrote on Mon, 20 October 2008 20:03

They are different. That's the 797 '73 schematics. I have compared the PCB layout of the '81 and it is a different circuit.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Crash on October 20, 2008, 03:17:09 PM

chris carter wrote on Mon, 20 October 2008 11:52

Just curious if you tried more than one mic? I have a MicroTech Gefell UM92.1 tube mic that refuses to play nice with a Joe Meek pre (...or is it the other way around?) unless I ground lift the mic power supply. I would be curious as to what other mics do and what a ground lift on the preamp might do. A morbid curiosity....

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on October 20, 2008, 03:26:56 PM

It seems like the inductors in the EQ are picking up something. We'll have to wait for someone with more advanced troubleshooting skills gets their pres before we know for certain ...

(AHEM....HINT, HINT.. CHANCE!!!!) Twisted Evil

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rodabod on October 20, 2008, 03:30:56 PM

chris carter wrote on Mon, 20 October 2008 15:55

Both of my 81s exhibit major buzz when the EQ is engaged.

Chris, under Chance's supervision, I might suggest checking that all of the bridging boards and cable sockets are well seated inside.

You can see the arrangement inside the '81 here:

http://homerecording.com/bbs/showpost.php?p=3023296&post count=5808

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on October 20, 2008, 03:35:24 PM

Crash wrote on Mon, 20 October 2008 12:17

[
Just curious if you tried more than one mic? I have a MicroTech Gefell UM92.1 tube mic that refuses to play nice with a Joe Meek pre (...or is it the other way around?) unless I ground lift the mic power supply. I would be curious as to what other mics do and what a ground lift on the preamp might do. A morbid curiosity....

Yes, I tried multiple mics... includign the ACM3 I got Smile

Same problem with every mic. In fact, it's teh same problem regardless of whether I'm using the mic or line inputs.

BTW - no ribbon sag problem with the ACM3 as far as I can tell.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on October 20, 2008, 04:12:08 PM

chris carter wrote on Mon, 20 October 2008 12:52

I would open it up to see if there is anything obviously loose or disconnected.

They did travel a couple thousand miles by boat.

Might save yourself some trouble with returning the item.

Cheers,
j

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on October 20, 2008, 04:28:30 PM

I'm not much of a tech... I can make cables, but that's about as far as I can go.

I'm a little nervous about opening the thing up and fuddling around inside. Partially because I really wouldn't know what I'm doing, but also because I'm sure Chance will get reimbursed from the manufactuer for defective units and I don't want to jeapordize that by mucking around inside and voiding any warranty he might have with them. So absent an explicit and direct instruction from Chance to open it up, I'll keep the lid closed.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Crash on October 20, 2008, 04:52:50 PM

Have you tried a ground lift like I mentioned in my earlier post?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: fiasco ( P.M.DuMont ) on October 20, 2008, 05:01:05 PM

Chance, I am sure you are being inundated with emails, messages, etc, so my apologies in advance.

I never received an email notifying me of shipping invoice availability, but according to the user console a shipping invoice was available.

I paid said invoice, but I don't know when it became available to me for payment.
Hopefully I didn't get sent to the back of the class, but I wouldn't care if I did.

I am suggesting that everyone check their user console daily, as well as their email.

Prudent to do?

Sincere thanks Chance.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on October 20, 2008, 05:03:24 PM

chris carter wrote on Mon, 20 October 2008 16:28

Hey Chris,

You'll never get the opportunity to fix it unless you break it first.
Shocked

Cheers,
j

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on October 20, 2008, 05:33:12 PM

0dbfs wrote on Mon, 20 October 2008 14:03

chris carter wrote on Mon, 20 October 2008 16:28

Hey Chris,

You'll never get the opportunity to fix it unless you break it first.
Shocked

Cheers,
j

Follow the Make magazine motto:

index.php/fa/10209/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on October 20, 2008, 06:18:21 PM

Paging drBill.

Brad says whatever it was should be fixed now, and you should be able to register and post.

Hope you join us, and fill us in on your new stuff.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on October 20, 2008, 06:30:35 PM

Yes, I tried a ground lift. It didn't change anything. Good suggestion though...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 20, 2008, 10:20:05 PM

Man I'm buried in a mix project but took a quick look and saw a button on the rear that designates "hi/low. Nothing in the manual about it and I guess it is -10 +4.
Also the line out is XLR. Are you sure your cable is wired correctly? (and going to a line level in and not mic level?)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on October 20, 2008, 10:45:02 PM

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 20 October 2008 19:20

The button on the back is for switching impedence from 300 to 1200 ohms. I did try it just to see if I'd get lucky (and in fact, I tried every switch, button, knob, etc.) and it didn't do anything other than change the impendence.

Yes, my cables are wired correctly. I tested all my handmade cables with a tester and actually tried swapping them out for prefab cables. I also tried standard and quad cabling.

I have not run the line-out into a mic input, only into line inputs of a mixer and line inputs of a converter (not at the same time obviously) all of which are balanced TRS inputs.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on October 20, 2008, 10:48:54 PM

Chance, Chris,
It's apparent from the audio clip that there is something up within the unit.

Chance, I've bumped this for your own good.....:

zmix wrote on Mon, 20 October 2008 15:26

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: MagnetoSound on October 21, 2008, 12:01:03 AM

zmix wrote on Mon, 20 October 2008 15:26

It seems like the inductors in the EQ are picking up something.

Well, assuming that the case is doing a good enough job of screening the unit from external interference (which seems to be borne out by Chris's waving it around in the air), the only obvious culprit is the mains transformer in the unit.

Inductor coils in EQ circuits are not commonly found in close proximity to mains transformers without one being screened off from the other, and I can't see any screening in the picture.

It would only need a very slight EMI to reach the inductors in order to create the sound you heard and it may be possible to cancel this field out by rotating the transformer a tiny bit. This may explain why some units have the problem and some don't.

It's a relatively easy thing to try if you are happy to open the unit, to rotate the transformer slightly one way and then the other to see if this has any effect.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: drBill on October 21, 2008, 12:33:21 AM

compasspnt wrote on Mon, 20 October 2008 17:18

Paging drBill.

Brad says whatever it was should be fixed now, and you should be able to register and post.

Hope you join us, and fill us in on your new stuff.

Woohooo!!!!!! Unbelieveable. I tried a couple years ago - same thing. I still never got an email, but Brad must have fixed it on his end!!!!

THANKS TERRY!!!! You da man! I think most of the pics I've taken have already been posted over here, but I'm going to try my 81's again and see if there's any "issues". I didn't notice any before, but I'll make sure.

Thanks again!

bp

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: drBill on October 21, 2008, 12:35:25 AM

chris carter wrote on Mon, 20 October 2008 21:45

I have not run the line-out into a mic input, only into line inputs of a mixer and line inputs of a converter (not at the same time obviously) all of which are balanced TRS inputs.

Chris, is the Monster unit a Balanced Power unit, or just a power conditioner?

Are your console/converter inputs Electronically balanced or Transformer balanced?

I tested all 6 of the Pre's I have. Sonically they are all as they should be - no hum or interference of any kind. Sounds like Chance has another buyer test 12 of theirs. No problems.

Is there a chance you can take your pre to a friends studio and check it out?

Bill

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on October 21, 2008, 01:37:38 AM

MagnetoSound wrote on Tue, 21 October 2008 00:01

zmix wrote on Mon, 20 October 2008 15:26

It seems like the inductors in the EQ are picking up something.

That's reasonable. It seems plenty obvious that it's the inductors picking up EMI from the internal power transformer, since it's only audible when the EQ is active...

Re-routing some of the power transformer's leads may also help.

If Chance would expedite the shipping of mine, ahem... I could likely solve this once and for all..

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 21, 2008, 08:22:24 AM

chris carter wrote on Mon, 20 October 2008 19:45

I have not run the line-out into a mic input, only into line inputs of a mixer and line inputs of a converter (not at the same time obviously) all of which are balanced TRS inputs.

Interesting. All of my line inputs are TS. I am thinking that using a TRS plug in a TS jack would short the Ring to the sleeve. Chris, I'll give you a call this afternoon.

On another note, I have just received payments from people/names unknown!

I will now start inserting a note in the invoices indicating "who is this payment for?" In other words I need to connect the payment with the name on the original order. So far, this has happened 16 times and is VERY time consuming to figure out. When someone pays for shipping, the administration console informs me that so & so made a payment. When I go to look for that payment, I can't find it because it's under a different name.

Good to see you here Bill. There's a great group of people here.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 21, 2008, 09:22:48 AM

Man this is getting CRAZY!! I just NOW received 2 payments. I have 2 people with the last name of "MIlls" both have a similar order. Both are male. I just received a payment from a J Mllls (female). I have no way of connecting payment with the order. I also just received a payment from a W F Irvin. No one with that name has even made an order! I don't understand it. Your gear is ready to ship but will have to go into storage. If this keeps up, it's going to be a long process. (I'm still having fun though)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Crash on October 21, 2008, 09:31:33 AM

drBill wrote on Mon, 20 October 2008 23:35

Is there a chance you can take your pre to a friends studio and check it out?

Bill

That was gonna be my next suggestion. It would be a bummer to send these two back and get two more that do the same thing if you follow me.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on October 21, 2008, 10:18:00 AM

In answer to some quesitons.....

- Magneto - You think it's as easy as just putting in some kind of shielding? I know nothing of this kind of stuff (as I said, I can make cables, but that's about it). I know if I put people's cell phones in a box lined with tinfoil they won't make the speakers buzz, of course they also won't ring LOL (clients don't know this of course HAHAHHAA). Could I just wrap some damn tinfoil around the power Xformer??? You laugh, but I really wouldn't know where to start in fixing the problem (or even know if I'd have the ability if I knew what to do).

-drBill -
First, I'm THRILLED that none of yours have this problem!!! My first thought was "oh crap, I hope this is just a random defect, or a small string of units and not a widespread problem." The boxes I've tried plugging it into are all electronically balanced I believe (ie. no transformers on inputs). I feel pretty confident at this point that if the pre had a headphone jack and I plugged directly into the thing I'd still hear the buzz. The monster power conditioner is not balanced power, it's just a conditioner. I've only lived in socal for a year so I don't know too many people. My neighbor has a little Boss 16 track recorder thingy so I'm going to try going over to his place and see what happens.

-Chance-
I'm definitely going into TRS inputs. Almost nothing in my studio has unbalanced. The patchbay is also all balanced (I've tried bypassing the patchbay as well). A call would be greatly appreciated. I have a mix to run this morning and then I go do my swim workout from 10am to about 12:30 or 1pm; anytiem other than when I'm at the pool will work at the number you have. Again, I'm nervous about openning it up without your explicit permission... I don't want to jeapordize your ability to get reimbursed from the manufacturer... not that I'd really know what I was doing in there anyway.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on October 21, 2008, 10:35:24 AM

Are some people still waiting to see an invoice? I've checked the user console every day. It still says "no".

I'm sorry if you've heard this a million times, Chance.

I just want to make sure I didn't miss anything.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 21, 2008, 10:40:39 AM

J-Texas wrote on Tue, 21 October 2008 07:35

You won't see an invoice until your order is ready to ship. There are around 400 orders to fill so just be patient. Right now the shipper's place is stacked to the max with orders ready to go, but their hands are tied waiting for shipping payment.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: drBill on October 21, 2008, 12:22:04 PM

chris carter wrote on Tue, 21 October 2008 09:18

Chris, are your cables sheilded? I presume they are. And if so, is ONE end of the cable's shield LIFTED. (not on the mic line, but on the output to console/converter line.) If not, it should be. Theoretically, there should only be ONE path to ground. That includes the 3rd pin of your AC cable, audio cables and the unit physically touching anything metal. On the flip side of the coin, if the unit ISN'T getting a good ground you can have some of the same type of symptoms. Have you tried lifting the ground and taking a 12ga wire from the chassis of the unit and touching it to the chassis of where it's going???

I know it sounds like I'm chasing phantoms here, but I've had a lot of experience with weird installs. Although it does NOT seem like a grounding problem (as it only happens with the EQ in), I have seen weirder things.

It really sounds like you've done everything you should have checked out, but it's quite odd that the others tested are not doing it and BOTH of yours are. Those odds tend to point me towards an interface / install issue, but certaiinly it is possible that both of yours have some sort of problem internally.

Why the unit would not hum with the EQ out and hum when switched in is strange, but I have found (the hard way with many hours spent on my hands and knees with a soldering iron) that when it comes to grounding issues, anything goes. I'm in the Pasadena area. If I can help you troubleshoot the problem let me know. I'll be done with my long term project next week.

bp

(PS- I almost sold all 8 of my Gefell mics for a similar problem - RFI / crap interference. I found that a non-standardized grounding scheme for them did the trick. They weren't getting a good ground on the shield. And I tore my hair out for a year researching this problem.)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 21, 2008, 12:29:12 PM

That was my thought too. If Chris is using XLR to TRS, The Ring should be lifted

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: tarnationsauce on October 21, 2008, 12:33:37 PM

Chris, out of curiosity, try unplugging the input of the pre and see if the switch has the same effect. This will just eliminate any input cabling / mic issues.

If you have the knowledge and means to do the following it could eliminate the possibility of excessive ripple voltage as the culprit. I kind of doubt it though.
Get an o-scope and measure the + and - voltage from ground. Make sure they are roughly +/- 12vDC as well as +24vDC. Then check the ripple voltage by centering the trace as you decrease the Volts/div. Just find the 60Hz AC ripple, also see if it changes when you switch the EQ circuit on/off. I don't think it will. Also I am not sure how much ripple would be acceptable for this circuit. If it is ripple, swapping in some larger power supply filter caps might help.

The tin foil thing could actually work. Probably just enough to test the theory, but not good enough for a permanent fix. Personally I would be extremely careful, or I would not do that just in case you short something out. You could put some rubber gloves on and carefully cup over the transformer or the inductors and see if it increases or decreases. A long term fix for this would be to buy some Mu metal plates and install them.

I am not sure what to think right now, if it's a design flaw (induced voltage, ripple) or bad luck (damage). DrBill is not experiencing the same effect, yet you have the problem on two preamps. Seems odd.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 21, 2008, 12:44:22 PM

I am expecting the schematics to arrive this evening.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Coleslaw on October 21, 2008, 01:24:57 PM

Please add me to this very long list inquiring about the next group buy on ACMP-73 Smile

- Thanks

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on October 21, 2008, 01:49:00 PM

drBill:
Cables are shielded and nothing is lifted. As mentioned before, I've used all balanced cables going into balanced inputs. I've used standard balanced and quad cable balanced, hand made and prefabricated cables. My floor is a mess of cables right now. It's not the cables.

There is only one path to ground in my studio and everything is on the same circuit. The 81s are not racked and not touching anything metal that could provide a second grounding source. I've tried a ground lift to no avail. I only have one ground lift and the little loop came off so I can't test grounding the power of the 81 to the chasis of another device (although I don't really consider this a viable working solution in the .000001% chance that solved the problem).

Chance:
Are you sure about that? XLR to TRS nothing should be lifted. Hot to hot, cold to cold, gnd to gnd. It's an entirely balanced connection. If I lifted the ring I would unbalance it. That doesn't seem right to me. That said, for shits and grins I did try a prefab XLR to TS cable to no avail (it's prefab, so I don't know if the negative is liften or tied to ground, but I would think it wouldn't matter in terms of the problems I'm having).

Tarnationsouce:
I have tried it with nothing plugged into the 81 and I get the same result. I don't have a scope OR the knowledge to try what you are suggesting LOL. I really don't think I should open it up and mess around inside without adult supervision LOL.

Okay, I gotta go do my swim workout and stop playing with these boxes!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 21, 2008, 01:51:28 PM

Coleslaw wrote on Tue, 21 October 2008 10:24

Please add me to this very long list inquiring about the next group buy on ACMP-73 Smile

- Thanks

For a minute, after reading your post, I thought I was reading my E-mail, as my E-box is flooded with messages just like you posted. There is something in the works soon to be announced in some form (possibly here, more than likely private mass E-mail to those who are on the mass-mail list)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rodabod on October 21, 2008, 04:04:31 PM

CHANCE wrote on Tue, 21 October 2008 17:44

I am expecting the schematics to arrive this evening.

Excellent. I've seen the ACM1200 schematic so far, and for anyone wishing to mod, there are plenty of resources available covering details for two very similar mics.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: drBill on October 21, 2008, 04:13:00 PM

chris carter wrote on Tue, 21 October 2008 12:49

There is only one path to ground in my studio and everything is on the same circuit.

Chris, I'm not sure you are completely following me. just because you're on the same circuit does not make it one path to ground. In fact, having multiple pieces of gear plugged into a power strip exponentially increases the possibilities of ground loops. If your shields are tied down and you're using the 3rd pin of the AC cable, then you have minimum - 2 paths to ground - more if you're in a power strip that's shared with other gear. But it doesn't sound like that may be your problem. Sounds like you have some EMI somewhere that is getting into the EQ part of the circuitry that your other gear is effectively shielding out. Not unusual.

If you're interested in more info on grounding and the elimination of noise in the analog envrionment - do a search on Star Grounding.

bp

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rodabod on October 21, 2008, 07:00:29 PM

Chris, I think your easiest method of ruling out groundloops (and EMI if you move to another location from the room you are currently in) would be to plug up an '81 with a single mic and the line-out to headphones. The output stage of the preamp should be reasonably happy driving phones. I'm doubtful of a groundloop myself, however.

drBill wrote on Tue, 21 October 2008 17:22

Chris, are your cables sheilded? I presume they are. And if so, is ONE end of the cable's shield LIFTED. (not on the mic line, but on the output to console/converter line.) If not, it should be.

I'd just like to add that whilst this can often be a good idea, it is not set in stone and is at least not standard practice in some circles. There are drawbacks associated with lifting at one end (shield can become like an aerial), and for this reason the Institute of Broadcast Sound recommends using both ends.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on October 21, 2008, 08:15:40 PM

rodabod wrote on Tue, 21 October 2008 16:00

drBill wrote on Tue, 21 October 2008 17:22

Chris, are your cables sheilded? I presume they are. And if so, is ONE end of the cable's shield LIFTED. (not on the mic line, but on the output to console/converter line.) If not, it should be.

Good suggestion! I went from mic (phantom powered) to the pre to headphones via an XLR->TRS cable and female-female TRS adapter. Nothing else in the chain and the pre wasn't touching anything conductive. Still got the buzz. I think we can effectively rule out ground loops as the culprit.

Since I no longer needed any other gear, I did move to another room, as far away from the studio as I could get. Same problem.

Then just to rule out the AC power, I used a portable battery with a built-in AC inverter. Same problem. So it's not the electricity.

Then, since I needed to go run some errands at Home Depot I figured I'd rule out house voodoo as well. I took the portable battery and drove 3 miles away from home and tested in the parking lot of Home Depot. Same problem. So it's not the location of my studio... that is unless the entire f-ing city of Santa Clarita is the problem! LOL...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 21, 2008, 09:30:52 PM

I was just messin with an 81 and found a buzzer. With no mic plugged in, and I rotate the center pot in the photo all the way to the right, the buzz stops. If I back it off a little, the buzz is strong. As I gradually rotate this pot CCW the buzz decreases as I rotate. I tried it with a mic and with that pot fully CW everything else funtions and is quiet as a church mouse. Tomorrow I ope to check the solder lugs and ground on that pot.

index.php/fa/10213/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on October 21, 2008, 10:42:05 PM

Chris I, for one, appreciate your thoroughness!

Have you ruled out that maybe it's you? Perhaps there are oscillating magnetic fields emanating from your personage. I think you need to do a test where you are at least 30' away from the preamp.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: drBill on October 22, 2008, 02:15:58 AM

chris carter wrote on Tue, 21 October 2008 19:15

rodabod wrote on Tue, 21 October 2008 16:00

drBill wrote on Tue, 21 October 2008 17:22

Chris, are your cables sheilded? I presume they are. And if so, is ONE end of the cable's shield LIFTED. (not on the mic line, but on the output to console/converter line.) If not, it should be.

LOL!!! Well, no one can say you're not persistant, can they!!! Still, quite odd. Will be interesting to see how it plays out. If you want to grab one of mine and try it in your envrionment, you're welcome to check it out. WE could try yours here as well. Maybe you're just LUCKY to get the two that don't work...... Laughing

I thought that was my job, but maybe it's your turn. Good luck figuring it out! I'm sure you will.

bp;

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: littlehat on October 22, 2008, 03:00:26 AM

Just been following along and checking my user console daily.

About the noisy pre...

From what I've read, it's not a grounding issue as such.
Meaning, if it's not noisy when the eq's out... the device ground is working as it should.

Did you check the switch?
If your switch has a bad or fouled contact... or a broken lug in the in position...
there could be NO ground when it's in one position.

This sounds like it could fit the symptoms even with the things you've eliminated.

Start with blowing it out (if the switch internally is unsealed) or using some deoxit.

Second thought was that if the controls light up when depressed, LEDs or the light PS could be the problem.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: ioaudio on October 22, 2008, 07:37:09 AM

high res inside pics would help, especially from the eq section.

does the eq work as it should (check frequency boosts / cuts with rmaa)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: matti on October 22, 2008, 08:39:07 AM

http://homerecording.com/bbs/showthread.php?t=180964&pag e=233

Matti

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 22, 2008, 12:07:03 PM

Everyone check your user consoles. I just invoiced around 30 orders.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on October 22, 2008, 12:23:49 PM

Aw dang - mine is not one of them. Sad

Oh well - patience is a virtue, right? Smile

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Rod Affleck on October 22, 2008, 12:53:11 PM

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 22 October 2008 13:07

Everyone check your user consoles. I just invoiced around 30 orders.

Hmm. My user console says this:

Shipping Invoice Available:    NO
Shipping Invoice Paid:     NO
Items Shipped:     YES

I assume that they haven't actually been shipped and this is an error/bug?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on October 22, 2008, 01:02:47 PM

Got mine

Paid/Done!

Thanks Chance.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 22, 2008, 01:14:57 PM

evil robot wrote on Wed, 22 October 2008 09:53

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 22 October 2008 13:07

Everyone check your user consoles. I just invoiced around 30 orders.

Hmm. My user console says this:

Shipping Invoice Available:    NO
Shipping Invoice Paid:     NO
Items Shipped:     YES

I assume that they haven't actually been shipped and this is an error/bug?

Oops. I clicked on shipped instead of "invoice sent" I have to re-send your invoice.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on October 22, 2008, 03:00:46 PM

evil robot wrote on Wed, 22 October 2008 12:53

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 22 October 2008 13:07

Everyone check your user consoles. I just invoiced around 30 orders.

Hmm. My user console says this:

Shipping Invoice Available:    NO
Shipping Invoice Paid:     NO
Items Shipped:     YES

I assume that they haven't actually been shipped and this is an error/bug?

Mine says:

Shipping Invoice Available: NO
Shipping Invoice Paid: NO
Items Shipped: NO

Sad

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Rod Affleck on October 22, 2008, 03:51:55 PM

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 22 October 2008 14:14

evil robot wrote on Wed, 22 October 2008 09:53

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 22 October 2008 13:07

Everyone check your user consoles. I just invoiced around 30 orders.

Hmm. My user console says this:

Shipping Invoice Available:    NO
Shipping Invoice Paid:     NO
Items Shipped:     YES

I assume that they haven't actually been shipped and this is an error/bug?

Oops. I clicked on shipped instead of "invoice sent" I have to re-send your invoice.

Whoah, you fixed it already! You deserve a trophy.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 22, 2008, 06:14:10 PM

Here is the schems for the 81. (someone care to translate?)

index.php/fa/10217/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rodabod on October 22, 2008, 06:17:55 PM

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 22 October 2008 23:14

Here is the schems for the 81. (someone care to translate?)

Chance, I've PM'ed you. If I can get a better copy, then I can compare differences (or similarities...) with the original.

Cheers,

Roddy

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on October 22, 2008, 06:30:20 PM

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 22 October 2008 18:14

Here is the schems for the 81. (someone care to translate?)

Chance ,
That's a pretty small schematic, but it does appear to be very similar to the 1081, there are the push-pull 6 transistor amplifier equivalents to the BA340 used in the 1081 also it looks like the monolithic opamps are simply used for metering.

I'd love to see a high rez schematic!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 22, 2008, 09:21:43 PM

It seems as though there are buzzing problems with the 81's. There are some going out to Chuck (Zmix) Maybe he can dial in the problem. I am kind of stumped on what to do. It would be pointless to send them out only to have everyone send it back and then me send back to you. Any thoughts?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rodabod on October 22, 2008, 09:34:14 PM

Chance, there are some excellent techs who post over at the Prodigy_Pro forums. Some of whom have built 1081 channels from scratch and obviously have a good in-depth understanding.

I'll post over there and see if any of them who have purchased any '81s can make any suggestions.

Roddy

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 22, 2008, 09:45:35 PM

rodabod wrote on Wed, 22 October 2008 18:34

Your help is much appreciated. Thank you.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TomW on October 22, 2008, 09:50:53 PM

Hey Chance, not sure if this is related but I noticed considerable PSU induced noise in the Chameleon 7602 when the PSU unit was close to the actual preamp.

It was only apparent when the midband was active, the PSU transformer was leaking field into the mid inductor.

I know these units have an internal PSU, so if your issue is related to the mid band eq sections then it's not a simple fix to reposition the power transformer. Perhaps some shielding on the inductors could help.

Personally not sure what to suggest, but thought I'd mention it. There could be a million sources of the hum.

Waiting for a high number of pres here and I can't deal with them all arriving with issues. So I'd rather you could solve it before shipping them.

Cheers Tom

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: ioaudio on October 23, 2008, 12:09:04 AM

first of all, try moving the wires from away the toroid transformer.
you can cut the wire ties for moving them.
please only do that if you know how to proceed (mains voltage etc)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v248/drBills/Group%20Buy%20Gear/148-4819_IMG.jpg

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on October 23, 2008, 12:27:39 AM

That set of wires is indeed mighty close to the transformer...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: okgb on October 23, 2008, 01:25:33 AM

I'd personally rather get them a.s.a.p. and work on the problem
, i know how much we paid and where they come from so ........
drill a new hole move the pwr xfmr , or make an outboard supply
not worried

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TomW on October 23, 2008, 05:25:18 AM

I'm looking after 15 people in my order and I don't want to play tech to them all but I can see the point in getting them quickly.

I agree about the power wires overlapping the audio feed to the output card... might be worth a try.

Do you have an internal pic of the 73 so we can compare layout?

Cheers T

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rodabod on October 23, 2008, 07:11:27 AM

ioaudio wrote on Thu, 23 October 2008 05:09

first of all, try moving the wires from away the toroid transformer.

Well spotted. Plus, the signal will be unbalanced as this point, and hum pickup would probably be pretty terrible.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 23, 2008, 08:20:14 AM

OK what to do? It would take a long time to test/repair every 81 and it would be cost prohibitive to return. Chuck, do you have the knowledge to pinpoint the problem? I am thinking that since some are OK, it might be a simple fix. I have received E-mails from some who got all 3 MP's and they absolutely love them. I have some big sessions today, tomorrow, and Saturday, but plan on spending Sunday on visually comparing a working piece with one that has that buzz problem. At least I should be able to decipher if something was assembled wrong or defective component. If there is someone local to me that is qualified to trouble shoot and has ordered an 81, for the benefit of everyone else, I'll rush your order out to you. (PM me)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on October 23, 2008, 09:06:46 AM

CHANCE wrote on Thu, 23 October 2008 08:20

Chance,
Yes I do. As soon as my modules arrive you can be assured that I will be testing them to pinpont the cause.

By sheer coincidence I purchased a Gauss meter last week!! This will allow me to determine the source of any internal EMI leakage.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 23, 2008, 09:09:40 AM

It will be just our luck that your's will be OK. LOL

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 23, 2008, 09:13:24 AM

I just got an E-mail from my Neve tech wanting to help but he is in England till after the holidays.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on October 23, 2008, 09:41:25 AM

CHANCE wrote on Thu, 23 October 2008 09:09

It will be just our luck that your's will be OK. LOL

Chance,
Please make sure that you send Mr. Zwicky at least one confirmed suspect unit.

Cheers,
j

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on October 23, 2008, 09:44:34 AM

0dbfs wrote on Thu, 23 October 2008 09:41

CHANCE wrote on Thu, 23 October 2008 09:09

It will be just our luck that your's will be OK. LOL

Chance,
Please make sure that you send Mr. Zwicky at least one confirmed suspect unit.

Cheers,
j

Gee, thanks dude....
Evil or Very Mad

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on October 23, 2008, 11:28:00 AM

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 22 October 2008 09:45

"I was just messin with an 81 and found a buzzer. With no mic plugged in, and I rotate the center pot in the photo all the way to the right, the buzz stops. If I back it off a little, the buzz is strong. As I gradually rotate this pot CCW the buzz decreases as I rotate. I tried it with a mic and with that pot fully CW everything else funtions and is quiet as a church mouse. Tomorrow I ope to check the solder lugs and ground on that pot.

Chance, I think that all of the suggestions made so far are a bit of a red herring. The problem seems to me to be a simple matter of EMI reaching the EQ inductor from the internal supply transformer.

Here is the section of the circuit affected by that pot (the pot is in the lower left corner):

index.php/fa/10222/0/

When the pot is fully CW the inductor network is paralleled across the 30k input resistor.

When that pot is fully CCW the inductor network is in the feedback loop of the line amp which follows it.

If the gain pot had a grounded center tap (as SSL, GML and others use) the inductor network would be completely out of circuit in the center position. As it is, there is no ground connection on that pot.

I am confident that this problem is as I suggest, and as soon as I get my modules, I'll verify that I can induce (no pun intended) and cure this symptom.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: ioaudio on October 23, 2008, 11:39:31 AM

that looks like a better schematic. could you post the remaining?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on October 23, 2008, 11:55:36 AM

Not my property.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: GrahameD on October 23, 2008, 01:00:11 PM

Have there been any problems reported on the 73 and 84 versions, or is this solely an issue with the 81?

... says someone who ordered a 73...

- Grahame

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 23, 2008, 01:05:39 PM

zmix wrote on Thu, 23 October 2008 08:55

Not my property.

If you were referring to me, I have no problem. Anything that helps us learn, will be a benefit to all.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Crash on October 23, 2008, 01:41:54 PM

So, are we talking about more 81's with issues than just the 2 of Chris' mentioned here? (doh...I just saw Chance's buzz discovery, hard to keep up with all the forums discussing this.)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: seedyunderbelly.com on October 23, 2008, 01:57:21 PM

Please excuse my observation,

It seems to me sending Chuck his units (however they may fall)

plus the definitively bad one would be useful for his inevitable solution-

Also it would be well worth the shipping considering his vast expertise.

Get 6 people in on it and what would it be like $5? I guess you guys understand this concept..

I was fortunate enough to witness his generous nature and sheer scientific genius in dealing with these matters in the past.

Sorry for butting in, as I am not involved - just hate to see the good punished for being the good.

I hope all your Pre/Eq's rock!

-j

(sorry Chuck)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rodabod on October 23, 2008, 02:00:23 PM

Greg Boboski at GroupDIY has suggested a few logical things to try out which shouldn't be far too difficult:

-Move transformer a few inches inside unit if this helps
-Rotate transformer (this can often help)
-Add shielding to inductors (not sure what sort of shielding the Chinese inductors would accept though).

There has also been a suggestion of "pops" on the gain switch in two position and occasional oscillation, but first things first! Confused

Roddy

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on October 23, 2008, 03:25:32 PM

Yes, the gain switch does indeed make a nasty pop in a couple positions beyond halfway. Definitely a 'mute before adjusting' type situation! How loud? Well, loud enough that it scared me with headphones on and every single clip light on the unit lights up LOL.

But I must stress, the preamp does in fact sound pretty good in my minimal testing Smile

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on October 23, 2008, 07:09:40 PM

chris carter wrote on Mon, 20 October 2008 12:52

One interesting thing that might help pinpoint the problem: I get the buzz if the individual bands are in the "off" position or not. I can affect the buzz with teh boost/cut pots (regardless of "off" position). If I have the hi-mid band set to 'off' and crank the boost/cut to boosting almost the max there's a specific spot where the buzz completely goes away. There are also positions that make it CRAZY loud LOL.

Chris,

Is the level of the hum affected by the 'high Q' switch's position?

What positions of the cut / boost give the most / least hum?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 23, 2008, 07:54:30 PM

I'm going to the wearhouse tomorrow
If anyone is POSITIVELY coming over on Sunday for your gear PM me by noon Friday and I'll bring your gear back with me.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: matti on October 23, 2008, 07:56:15 PM

Did you hear the sample, no hum 60hz or 50hz, its more like
pirr or what ever but of some frequency or how to explain?
Inductors my intuition also

Matti

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rodabod on October 23, 2008, 08:35:20 PM

Here are the schematics which I have converted to JPEG:

"Amp"

"Filter"

"Out Power"

"Upper"

"Bass"

"Low"

"Treble"

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on October 23, 2008, 09:40:28 PM

zmix wrote on Thu, 23 October 2008 16:09

chris carter wrote on Mon, 20 October 2008 12:52

Chris,

Is the level of the hum affected by the 'high Q' switch's position?

What positions of the cut / boost give the most / least hum?

Here is my comprehensive report:

1. Gain popping: gain pops really loud at the 6th click going CW or CCW.

2) Buzz: My 'default' is the buzz you heard in the sample with all frequencies OFF and boost/cut at zero.

Gain - no effect on buzz

Hi pass - no effect

lo pass - no effect

hi shelf/peak - no effect

hi freq - no effect

hi gain - very, very subtle increase from -70% to -100%

hi-mid Q: no effect

hi-mid freq: @ 15kHz buzz is muffled and regains high end as selector moves toward 8.2kHz

hi-mid gain: Low pitch buzz # -100%, no buzz @ -95%, regular buzz from -95% to +95%, no buzz @ +95%, loud buzz @ +100%

lo-mid Q: no effect

lo-mid freq: added low (about an octive??) pitch buzz that is strong @ 22Hz and decreasing to subtle @ 1200Hz (no change in regular buzz).

lo-mid gain: Low pitch buzz # -100%, no buzz @ -95%, regular buzz from -95% to +95%, no buzz @ +95%, loud buzz @ +100%

lo shelf/peak: subtle change in tone of buzz (more low end) when in peak

lo shlef freq: no effect with gain at zero

lo shelf gain: w/ freq off no effect. w/ freq on buzz is bassier w/ bosting and thinner w/ cutting relative to the ammount of boost/cut. Effect is magnified as the frequency selector is lowered to lower frequencies.

output trim: appears to be post buzz

300/1200 ohm: no effect

mic/line: no effect

phantom power: seems to add subtle low end to buzz when engaged.

I would add that it seems there is just a slight amount of randomness as I couldn't ALWAYS get predictable results.... but nearly always.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on October 24, 2008, 03:19:28 AM

CHANCE wrote on Thu, 23 October 2008 16:54

I'm going to the wearhouse tomorrow
If anyone is POSITIVELY coming over on Sunday for your gear PM me by noon Friday and I'll bring your gear back with me.

In a reversal of my original intent, are any locals going out there this weekend that could pickup my stuff as well? it's not a huge pile, just 4 pres & 7 mics.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: fiasco ( P.M.DuMont ) on October 24, 2008, 03:12:21 PM

Chance.

Typically how long after an invoice is paid till you get a chance (no pun intended) to ship an order?

Not being impatient, just making sure I am not overlooking something.

Thanks.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 24, 2008, 03:38:39 PM

Fiasco wrote on Fri, 24 October 2008 12:12

Chance.

Typically how long after an invoice is paid till you get a chance (no pun intended) to ship an order?

Not being impatient, just making sure I am not overlooking something.

Thanks.

The following day or two.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: RSettee on October 24, 2008, 03:56:02 PM

Hey, could you hip me as to what the skinny is here, and if you have anything available and what you recommend? Do I have to order before you place your big order? Apologies, I haven't read this in awhile but should have....

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on October 24, 2008, 04:03:23 PM

Ryan, we are just trying to get all of the (massive amount of already ordered, paid, and here) gear out to everyone right now.

We will deal with anything in the future soon.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: RSettee on October 24, 2008, 06:11:48 PM

Stellar. let me know what's available when it's available and what you'd recommend.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: fiasco ( P.M.DuMont ) on October 24, 2008, 06:57:00 PM

CHANCE wrote on Fri, 24 October 2008 15:38

Fiasco wrote on Fri, 24 October 2008 12:12

Chance.

Typically how long after an invoice is paid till you get a chance (no pun intended) to ship an order?

Not being impatient, just making sure I am not overlooking something.

Thanks.

The following day or two.

Thank you, sir.

Karma shall look kindly upon you, and Terry, and Randy, and...

...hell, everyone could use some favorable karma.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 25, 2008, 12:02:11 PM

(Yawn) Late last night Greg Campbell who worked with Paul over at Manley Labs came over and told me that Manley once had a simular problem (Buzz) and the problem was the paint on/between the small phillips screws that secure the cover to the chassis. Our 73's, 81's and 84's have a heavy coat of wrinkle black, but I have my doubts that, that is the problem, but you never know. I'll check after todays session.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on October 25, 2008, 06:55:07 PM

CHANCE wrote on Sun, 26 October 2008 03:02

Does he think these pres will put Manley out of business? Laughing

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on October 26, 2008, 02:45:09 PM

Where's my stuff? Razz

Nah, it's ok. I'll just sit here patiently waiting. Drooling like a dog in a puddle on the floor while checking my email account for the shipping charges notification every 5 minutes.

I'll probably be the last on the list now for even raising my hand in class. I'll just be quiet and try and blend back into the woodwork.....

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 27, 2008, 08:58:26 AM

Saturday I had a session with a cover band. Not being a critical session I thought I would try a new 1200 mic. It sounded terrible! It was very thin and brittle. I just put it aside and quickly set up another mic. After the end of the session (about 10 hours) after everyone left I checked the 1200 again (the PSU was still on) and it sounded very nice. Then it dawned on me that I did no burn in or warm up when I first tried it.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on October 27, 2008, 09:36:45 AM

How long does a tube typically take to burn in?

Thanks.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 27, 2008, 09:43:11 AM

C.Cash wrote on Mon, 27 October 2008 06:36

How long does a tube typically take to burn in?

Thanks.

Well,, it seems 10 hours made all the difference in the world.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on October 27, 2008, 09:45:29 AM

C.Cash wrote on Mon, 27 October 2008 09:36

How long does a tube typically take to burn in?

Thanks.

Young Neil says: "I't's better to burn in, then to fade towards"..

"My My Hey hey.. Rock and roll will never pay"

It's also possible that the various connectors and switches have an anti- corrosive coating that needs to be 'exercised' off by making a connections and flipping some switches.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on October 27, 2008, 09:48:24 AM

hmm, my Rode classic 2 has maybe 3 hours!
To burn in just turn it on and let it sit?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 27, 2008, 09:54:59 AM

C.Cash wrote on Mon, 27 October 2008 06:48

To burn in just turn it on and let it sit?

That's what I did on Saturday. From when I first tried it and pushed it aside (never turning it off) till I tried it that night, it sounded like two different mics.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: jensenmann on October 27, 2008, 10:24:00 AM

I´m not sure if tubes need to burn in but for sure electrolytic caps are in need to.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: duckhunter on October 27, 2008, 12:24:05 PM

Still no shipping invoice here:

Shipping Invoice Available:    NO
Shipping Invoice Paid:    NO
Items Shipped:    NO
Shipping Date:
Shipping Amount:    $0.00
Shipping Carrier:
Tracking Number:

Shipping Notes:

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on October 28, 2008, 09:15:28 PM

Ain't they Clean?

index.php/fa/10244/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Tom L on October 28, 2008, 09:29:38 PM

zmix wrote on Tue, 28 October 2008 17:15

Ain't they Clean?

don't take this the wrong way, but...umm.....nice rack

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on October 28, 2008, 09:52:48 PM

Tom L wrote on Tue, 28 October 2008 21:29

zmix wrote on Tue, 28 October 2008 17:15

Ain't they Clean?

don't take this the wrong way, but...umm.....nice rack

... that's just the cleavage.....!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigbone on October 29, 2008, 02:16:14 AM

zmix wrote on Tue, 28 October 2008 21:15

Ain't they Clean?

index.php/fa/10244/0/

Do they sound as good as they look..... that's THE question.......

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on October 29, 2008, 07:56:22 AM

zmix wrote on Tue, 28 October 2008 21:15

Ain't they Clean?

Mr Zwicky,

Glad to see you strutting so soon. Smile

We're anxious to hear of any developments and or comments regarding your findings to confirm, localize, and address the previously reported "buzz" from the 81's.

Cheers,
j

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on October 29, 2008, 08:14:53 AM

Good looking, how do they sound? any buzz? whats for breakfast?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on October 29, 2008, 08:29:47 AM

bigbone wrote on Wed, 29 October 2008 02:16

zmix wrote on Tue, 28 October 2008 21:15

Ain't they Clean?

index.php/fa/10244/0/

Do they sound as good as they look..... that's THE question.......

Indeed. Some great pics so far yet hardly a mention of how they sound. Anyone care to make those of us still waiting drool even more?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on October 29, 2008, 08:45:50 AM

Well this was on GS:

KingUgly
Gear maniac

Join Date: Mar 2004
Location: Los Angeles
Posts: 242

Been running the 73 through some paces, and overall, I am very impressed. The EQ leaves a little to be desired sonic wise, but it's good enough. Best eq ever? Hardly, but it's useful. The DI works as advertised, no complaints there. The preamp section is what is really fantastic, and I don't even envision doing any mods to this thing at this point. Yes, it's that good.

I wish I'd at least bought a pair. I just couldn't believe at the time that they would sound this good. For the price, this is a joke. It's a no brainer. The deal that Chance is busting his ass to bring everyone is one of the rarest things we will ever see...

The ACM-1200 mic I bought is nice, sounds great, could have a little more mojo to it, but it's crisp and clean and clear with plenty of usefulness. It doesn't have a BIG sound, but it's nice...

The build quality is as Chinese as it gets. You're not paying for that.

Wish I'd bought more... Chance, buddy, keep me in mind!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on October 29, 2008, 08:58:26 AM

i know its early, but is the tube value in the 1200 mic available? anyone looked into trading up tubes? ive got several in my order, and would be curious to A/B a stock tube vs. upgraded tube to see if it provides anything.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TheDan on October 29, 2008, 09:37:42 AM

I've got 2 1200s, they have 12AX7B inside. I am probably going to swap those tubes out eventually, but I haven't even put them up and recorded anything through them yet.

I did put up the ACM-900 tube ribbon (with stock tube) last night about a foot away from a 4x12 for some Big Muff-Smashing Pumpkins-like guitar, and it sounded great. Pretty meaty, smooth on top. More sensitive than I expected, alomost no extra gain needed at all. I was almost to the point of padding the pre, even though the guitar was not overly loud, just loud enough to excite the room. YMMV.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on October 29, 2008, 10:12:54 AM

Ok everybody, I'l speak...

First of all the modules sound fantastic. Granted 99.999% of the time I am mixing, so I haven't checked out the preamp portion, but the line amps / EQs are great.

It's interesting that all of the modules use the single ended class A output stage based on the BA283 card ( same as what's inside the N

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on October 29, 2008, 10:39:25 AM

compasspnt wrote on Wed, 29 October 2008 08:45

Well this was on GS:

Missed that. Thanks.

TheDan

I did put up the ACM-900 tube ribbon (with stock tube) last night about a foot away from a 4x12 for some Big Muff-Smashing Pumpkins-like guitar, and it sounded great. Pretty meaty, smooth on top. More sensitive than I expected, alomost no extra gain needed at all. I was almost to the point of padding the pre, even though the guitar was not overly loud, just loud enough to excite the room. YMMV.

That's great to hear as I had high hopes for this mic. Intersting though, as I seem to remember Chance mentioning he thought it didn't handle a higher SPL type singer very well IIRC? Mileage dose indeed vary.

zmix

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: tarnationsauce on October 29, 2008, 10:41:55 AM

Thanks for that writeup ZMix!

I cannot wait to get my preamps so I too can start troubleshooting the 81. I own an o-scope and have a gauss meter at my disposal so some of these unanswered questions will get answered.

How did you connect an external supply? did you remove the existing transformer and run extension cables?

My initial thought was ripple, then EMI, and now we might have HF oscillations. The guys on Prodigy Pro should be able to look at the circuit and tell if there is a possibility of oscillations. Maybe someone over there has an 81 and the test equipment to check for oscillations.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on October 29, 2008, 11:43:35 AM

zmix wrote on Wed, 29 October 2008 10:12

EDIT: Here is a screen shot of the oscillation superimposing itself on a 125hz sinewave. This noise is only present when the input signal goes above -36dB:

Zmix,

Great news about the pre's in general Smile

If that oscillation is only on the lower half of the waveform and the eq section uses an A/B topology then does it make sense that the B half of the A/B EQ amp is prolly introducing the artifacts?

Cheers,
j

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on October 29, 2008, 04:00:50 PM

you guyz are smaaaaart..........

I'd just start smacking it with a hammer until it bowed in submission.

Show no fear, these things can sense your fear.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on October 29, 2008, 05:45:14 PM

Hey Zmix and other super-smart people....

As many of us are awaiting your potential fix for the buzz problem, please keep in mind that some of us (like me!) have little skill other than soldering cables together. So if/when you find a solution that works, it would be greatly appreciated if you could document the exact procedure with step by step instructions with photos and/or video catered toward a first-grader Smile

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on October 29, 2008, 06:42:15 PM

chris carter wrote on Wed, 29 October 2008 17:45

Thanks Chris. I've always felt that the elegance of a solution lies in it's simplicity.
When I get a second to try some things I'll pass them along.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on October 29, 2008, 07:05:34 PM

Well, hopefully it really will be as simple as scraping the paint off under the screws on the lid LOL. That kind of modification is within my pay grade Smile

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rodabod on October 29, 2008, 07:44:09 PM

zmix wrote on Wed, 29 October 2008 14:12

Re-routing the the audio cables (which go to the output pot and phase switch) away from the PSU made the noise floor higher.

Moving my hand in the proximity of the EQ cards made the noise floor higher.

There is a transistor on each of the EQ amp cards that is running very hot (Q4).

I suspect that there may be ultrasonic oscillations in the EQ amp cards.

Hi,

Although you tried swapping the PSU, I might check to see how the supply rail is coping and note if any oscillation can be detected there in case it is insufficiently decoupled. Requires a 'scope though. That said, a brief look at the schematics shows that they have followed the original very closely and it has the same de-coupling values. I wonder also if the grounding is solid and well-routed as that can also lead to oscillation problems.

The BA338 seems to have been copied properly, bar the transistor equivalents and diodes. I doubt the LED meter arrangement should cause problems either from what I can see, although I'm not very familiar with these peak-meter arrangements.

Roddy

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: reverendray on October 29, 2008, 09:46:45 PM

I'm checking my user console every day. The Canadian dollar is tanking so I hope to pay soon.I'm looking forward to trying the '73s I ordered. I have 1 transformer from an original 73 to experiment with but if they sound like the plugs I'll be very happy. Thanks Chance Razz

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on October 29, 2008, 10:53:11 PM

rodabod wrote on Wed, 29 October 2008 19:44

zmix wrote on Wed, 29 October 2008 14:12

Roddy,
These are good points, but the circuit has the same noise and distortion performance as the other units in the series when the EQ is bypassed.

Certainly it all warrants further investigation.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: duckhunter on October 30, 2008, 12:34:06 PM

So I can manage some upcoming projects and have access to the mics and preamps I ordered, can you give us an ETA on delivery of my 73 and three mics? Still no shipping invoice. Thanks.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 30, 2008, 02:50:15 PM

For some who have been waiting and paid for shipping, there are around 60 big boxes that are shipping today. Some of the international orders have to be re packed because of the size limit.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Rader Ranch on October 30, 2008, 03:17:35 PM

I've got a pretty good sized order, which i'd hate to see stalled indefinitely just for the 2 81's on it. Of course the conundrum is that I'd rather not have to fix 'em myself if they show up defective. Any chance on separating those and sending them later after the problem has been sussed?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Tom L on October 30, 2008, 10:30:33 PM

Patiently waiting for a notification email or an update on the daily checked user console...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: NelsonL on October 31, 2008, 05:46:15 AM

dguidry wrote on Thu, 30 October 2008 09:34

So I can manage some upcoming projects and have access to the mics and preamps I ordered, can you give us an ETA on delivery of my 73 and three mics? Still no shipping invoice. Thanks.

Quoted for de-emphasis.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on October 31, 2008, 09:22:36 AM

At the risk of sounding like someone's dad...perhaps we should be careful not to expend too much energy on "Still no invoice...When is my order coming?" posts. I made one or two of these myself, really intended to be humorous - but I know that Chance has a sh*t-ton of stuff to do to get everything sent out, addressing the 81 issue, not to mention his NORMAL life (he has one of those, right?).

I for one don't want to be misunderstood as nagging over my little piece of the pie. Yes, I too wish it was here yesterday Wink

but to Chance, let me say that I will be happy whenever it shows up. Thumbs Up

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: NelsonL on October 31, 2008, 10:35:50 AM

willowhaus wrote on Fri, 31 October 2008 06:22

but to Chance, let me say that I will be happy whenever it shows up. Thumbs Up

Well put, I agree 100%.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Tom L on October 31, 2008, 11:14:26 AM

Totally agree. My most recent post was a reaction to some of the not so patient. I hope it wasn't taken in any other way.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: duckhunter on October 31, 2008, 11:34:33 AM

Anyone know the total number of orders to be shipped so we have of sense of the magnitude of Chance's benevolence.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Rader Ranch on October 31, 2008, 12:31:01 PM

of course the best tack is just to privately email Chance, much easier to keep track of.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Barkley McKay on October 31, 2008, 12:39:37 PM

Not Chance... but I believe he did mention a few days ago that 25% had been dispatched out of 400 orders.

Considering many have bought a few pres AND mics, that should give some idea of the magnitude of the task.

I myself have 7 pres (one of which is for a colleague) and 2 microphones. That'll be a big box when it arrives.

Barks

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TheDan on October 31, 2008, 12:51:12 PM

Barkley McKay wrote on Fri, 31 October 2008 12:39

All I got was 3 mics, and the box was 37 lbs. Big indeed!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on October 31, 2008, 12:51:45 PM

A bigger box than you even expect.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Ryan Massey on October 31, 2008, 01:25:16 PM

dguidry wrote on Fri, 31 October 2008 08:34

Anyone know the total number of orders to be shipped so we have of sense of the magnitude of Chance's benevolence.

You are unreal.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: A.J. on October 31, 2008, 03:14:13 PM

personally I cannot imagine the amount of work it's taken over all these months to make this happen. The emails and PMs alone would probably bring me to my knees!

“Patience and fortitude conquer all things”

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Crash on October 31, 2008, 03:14:16 PM

dguidry wrote on Fri, 31 October 2008 10:34

Anyone know the total number of orders to be shipped so we have of sense of the magnitude of Chance's benevolence.

I am not sure what it matters, but I believe that I remember the number of orders hovering around 400...which really doesn't mean much, as I am sure one order might be just for a mic, or it could be like mine, 1 mic and 7 preamps. I also believe that he has stated that about 100 orders have been filled.

Patience audio grasshoppers!!!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on October 31, 2008, 03:15:03 PM

TheDan wrote on Fri, 31 October 2008 09:51

All I got was 3 mics, and the box was 37 lbs. Big indeed!

Good heavens... really? Oh... PSUs, right.

With 2 pres and 5 mics, it looks like I might be dipping into the Christmas fund for shipping.

--kidding.

I totally agree on the patience thing, too. Like the rest of you, I'm checking the console every day with baited breath, but I do understand the sheer enormity of Chance's undertaking here, and that my last name begins with a letter that comes a bit later in the alphabet.

Also bear in mind that even once you've payed the invoice, that payment still has to be processed and transferred to the shipping company, otherwise Chance would be paying up front out of pocket, and I wouldn't wish that on anyone.

Check console... close eyes... breath deep... recite mantra...

Lather, Rinse, Repeat.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Crash on October 31, 2008, 03:36:57 PM

Quote:

I totally agree on the patience thing, too. Like the rest of you, I'm checking the console every day with baited breath, but I do understand the sheer enormity of Chance's undertaking here, and that my last name begins with a letter that comes a bit later in the alphabet.

My last name starts with a B....I am still looking at three red no's on my user console as well. I don't think there is any rhyme or reason to how orders are being done.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Barkley McKay on October 31, 2008, 03:39:53 PM

I reckon that those who post about having no invoice yet get put to the back of the list Shocked

barks

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on October 31, 2008, 03:41:43 PM

Remember everybody...

This stuff was dead cheap.

It is somewhat untested.

This is an Experimental Group Buy.

Things got out of hand; there were far more orders than were anticipated, or than can be handled easily.

Expenses for TNC, as well as work involved grew exponentially, far beyond what was anticipated. None of this is being passed on to people...just the shipping, as was always intended.

Chance has had to deal with the logistics almost single handedly.

Considering everything, things are going very well.

People, for the most part, are loving their stuff.

What problems there are (with totally newly designed and manufactured pieces) are being sussed by highly qualified Group Buy members.

Soon enough, all will be done, and we will see what the Future holds...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on October 31, 2008, 08:02:22 PM

Peace, Love, and Crunchy Granola. Razz

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: nob turner on November 01, 2008, 02:27:17 AM

Rader Ranch wrote on Fri, 31 October 2008 09:31

of course the best tack is just to privately email Chance, much easier to keep track of.

this would be the rude way to go. you're getting a deal, he is working his tail off. be patient, and be appreciative of what he's doing for you for nothing.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Rader Ranch on November 01, 2008, 09:56:13 AM

I disagree. Don't assume you know how folks are talking to/with him. Better for Chance to check emails than multiple threads.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 01, 2008, 04:08:38 PM

Rader Ranch wrote on Sat, 01 November 2008 06:56

I disagree. Don't assume you know how folks are talking to/with him. Better for Chance to check emails than multiple threads.

Actually, averaging a couple hundred E-mails a day, it's impossible to keep up, read, and reply to everyone. That is why when I make a specific request, I will ask you to put a key word in the subject header so I can locate faster. As soon as I make a little room in my PM boxes, they are full again. I want to be productive and get everyones order shipped, so if anyone doesn't receive a reply, you might now understand why. Next week, we will be concentrating on international orders which are extreemely time consuming. We had to rent a storage facility, and only have it till the end of November, so I have to enter hyper- drive, and make shipping the priority.
MANY have requested to be on the TnC mass-mail news list. We're working on that too.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on November 01, 2008, 04:24:45 PM

hey chance, thanks SO MUCH(again) for doing this. we all really appreciate it. guys, lets be patient here-we are getting this gear for dirt cheap. the odds that anyone in this group buy doesnt have any mics laying around they can record with in the meantime is slim to none. we'll all get by.

just a logistics question-if you are moving on to international orders, would that mean that all the domestic (mic-only, OR mic/pre)shipping invoices have already gone out? im in NO hurry whatsoever, just want to make sure there isnt any snafu's with the system.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 01, 2008, 06:12:14 PM

rjd2 wrote on Sat, 01 November 2008 13:24

We'll no doubt be shipping both because domestic is such a simple process, but we'll be putting emphisis on international.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rocket88 on November 02, 2008, 12:28:37 AM

If domestic shipping is so quick and simple, why have we been waiting nearly four weeks? Simply ship all the domestic stuff and be done with it.

It might seem like I am ungrateful but I am not. I am frustrated, as many others seem to be. Please spent 5 minutes twice a week and let us know: 1) How many orders have been invoiced to date, and 2) How many orders have ACTUALLY been shipped to date.

Thanks.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: maxim on November 02, 2008, 01:11:15 AM

chance is NOT a shop

that's why you're paying cost price

if you want to pay chance a wage for doing you this FAVOUR, i'm sure he'd be happy to accept

otherwise, STOP WHINING!!!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Tom L on November 02, 2008, 02:28:23 AM

Gee, welcome to the forum.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Hallams on November 02, 2008, 05:43:48 AM

rocket88 wrote on Sun, 02 November 2008 15:28

Off like a rocket! Very Happy

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on November 02, 2008, 07:47:44 AM

rocket88 wrote on Sun, 02 November 2008 04:28

do you realize that these guys could have banked on this project, but instead decided to pass any potential profit on to us in the form of savings?

do you realize that they have real studios, real jobs, and did this as what would amount to a hobby for you and i?(my hobbies are nowhere NEAR this altruistic.)

do you realize that comments like yours could very well cause these guys to decide that something of this nature just isnt worth it next time?

if you needed these mics last week, shouldnt you have ordered from musicians friend instead?

lastly, here on planet earth, we use "please" and "thank you" when asking for things, and when people do us favors. come join us.

seriously. show a little respect.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 02, 2008, 08:13:36 AM

rocket88 wrote on Sun, 02 November 2008 00:28

Welcome Dan.

Unfortunately, nothing in this process is "simple." Many who have been invoiced for shipping have not paid, or at least, not quickly. Those orders are boxed and ready however, and actually clog up the place the "ready boxes" live. The mountain is slowly eroding however.

Chance is very busy with this process, and has spent considerably more than "5 minutes twice a week" on any one aspect, including writing about it on several fora.

In fact, people have had a view pretty much right into the process, including often photos of what is going on.

Please be patient; we all want our stuff (I personally have not even gotten my own yet, and I could have jumped the line).

This coming week will tell many tales.

Regards.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rocket88 on November 02, 2008, 01:15:03 PM

My apologies to all. The red NOs were burning a hole in my brain and made me crazy. I will be patient. Embarassed

Of course, thank you for all your time and hard work putting this thing together.

I will now disappear back into cyber-space without another word.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 02, 2008, 03:28:35 PM

rocket88 wrote on Sun, 02 November 2008 10:15

My apologies to all. The red NOs were burning a hole in my brain and made me crazy. I will be patient. Embarassed

Of course, thank you for all your time and hard work putting this thing together.

I will now disappear back into cyber-space without another word.

No problem. You're not alone. Many are suffering with Anti gear reception disorder, but it's not terminal.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 02, 2008, 03:38:24 PM

rocket88 wrote on Sun, 02 November 2008 13:15

My apologies to all. The red NOs were burning a hole in my brain and made me crazy. I will be patient. Embarassed

Of course, thank you for all your time and hard work putting this thing together.

I will now disappear back into cyber-space without another word.

All Good.

Except, don't disappear...we'd love for you to hang around!

T

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: recordinghacks on November 02, 2008, 10:27:35 PM

compasspnt wrote on Sun, 02 November 2008 05:13

Many who have been invoiced for shipping have not paid, or at least, not quickly.

It's a pity Randy (who built the User Console, which is awesome in every other respect) isn't available to have the console generate an email to the buyer once the shipping invoice is entered.

If that little bit of logic could be implemented, it would spare many of us from our 3x-daily logins, and would prevent Chance's shipping crew from stumbling over boxes invoiced days and weeks prior.

I know Randy isn't around, so this is just wishful thinking, and perhaps something to remember if there's a 'next time' (count me among those who hope there is).

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: littlehat on November 03, 2008, 12:24:53 AM

The whining is getting to me.
We're getting good gear at below 1/5th the price we'd pay for it otherwise.

Not knowing when you get what you ordered is one of the few drawbacks for this incredible value.

Whiners... grow up... shut up.

You're not only not helping at all,
You're also making the rest of us look bad.

And you're making me sick.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 03, 2008, 09:16:58 AM

I had a little time last night and pulled out a 73. I was surprised at the meter response. It's instantaneous. Perhaps because it is so small, the dial doesn't have far to travel. My preference would be a peak LED and an average meter. I was happy with the sound and hope to check out the DI with some bass OD's later this week.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on November 03, 2008, 10:33:00 AM

COOL!
I dont know where you find the time to do all this stuff but I for one really apreciate it.
If ever you are in the Bahamas (Nassau) please give me a shout. Cool

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 03, 2008, 10:37:38 AM

C.Cash wrote on Mon, 03 November 2008 07:33

If ever you are in the Bahamas (Nassau) please give me a shout. Cool

Wish I was there now. LOL

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: danickstr on November 03, 2008, 10:46:01 AM

littlehat wrote on Mon, 03 November 2008 00:24

come on, tell us how you really feel...
Laughing

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on November 03, 2008, 11:12:36 AM

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 03 November 2008 08:16

Love to hear an MP3, if you can manage it. Smile

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on November 03, 2008, 12:10:25 PM

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 03 November 2008 08:16

I had a little time last night and pulled out a 73.

Oh yeah? I had a little time last night and pulled out something else just thinking about my 73! Laughing

Seriously, I feel like Ralphie waiting on his Little Orphan Annie decoder ring!

WOOHOOOO!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on November 03, 2008, 12:56:14 PM

J-Texas wrote on Mon, 03 November 2008 12:10

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 03 November 2008 08:16

I had a little time last night and pulled out a 73.

Oh yeah? I had a little time last night and pulled out something else just thinking about my 73! Laughing

It's always my preference to never use the word little in this context? But that's just me. Laughing

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on November 03, 2008, 12:58:13 PM

Dan-O wrote on Mon, 03 November 2008 11:56

J-Texas wrote on Mon, 03 November 2008 12:10

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 03 November 2008 08:16

I had a little time last night and pulled out a 73.

Oh yeah? I had a little time last night and pulled out something else just thinking about my 73! Laughing

It's always my preference to never use the word little in this context? But that's just me. Laughing

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: floxe on November 03, 2008, 01:18:19 PM

Quote:

Next week, we will be concentrating on international orders which are extreemely time consuming.

weehoo! looking forward to seeing those little three green yes'

not looking forward to seeing the amount of the shipping - it'll probably be around 450$ - also the dollar is at 0.8 again instead of 0.65 Sad

thanks again for everything!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on November 03, 2008, 01:34:30 PM

Quote:

Oh yeah? I had a little time last night and pulled out something else just thinking about my 73! Laughing

TMFI

Cheers,
j

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TheDan on November 03, 2008, 02:04:50 PM

J-Texas wrote on Mon, 03 November 2008 12:10

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 03 November 2008 08:16

I had a little time last night and pulled out a 73.

Oh yeah? I had a little time last night and pulled out something else just thinking about my 73! Laughing

Just as long as you don't put up an mp3 example.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on November 03, 2008, 02:45:53 PM

Why? Is time a factor? It's only about :30. Rolling Eyes

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on November 03, 2008, 04:47:14 PM

floxe wrote on Tue, 04 November 2008 05:18

Quote:

Next week, we will be concentrating on international orders which are extreemely time consuming.

thanks again for everything!

Same here. Last time the Aussie $ was much lower when we ordered the gear than when it was sent. This time the dollar was worth about 92 cents US when we ordered, but now is only 65 cents.

It'll still be a great deal, but shipping on 8 preamps and 8 valve mics is not going to be cheap. Also import duty will be higher.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Rader Ranch on November 03, 2008, 04:52:14 PM

CHANCE wrote on Sat, 01 November 2008 16:08

Actually, averaging a couple hundred E-mails a day,

ouch, that doesn't help much then, does it. FWIW no frustration here at all, was more just curious if the 1081 problem itself was going to cause delays in those particular orders, that's all.

You rock as always...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: thinman on November 03, 2008, 04:55:28 PM

J-Texas wrote on Mon, 03 November 2008 11:10

Oh yeah? I had a little time last night and pulled out something else just thinking about my 73! Laughing

WOOHOOOO!

Chance, just remember this in case after he gets his 73(s) he comes up with a sticky knob or something. Twisted Evil

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 03, 2008, 06:04:08 PM

thinman wrote on Mon, 03 November 2008 16:55

...remember this in case after he gets his 73(s) he comes up with a sticky knob or something.

Maybe now we know the source of the 81 buzz problem...

Title: TnC 81 EQ Buzz / Hum SOLVED!!!
Post by: zmix on November 03, 2008, 07:01:41 PM

I just wanted to post an update to the TNC 81 humm problem.

I solved it today, and it was exactly as I had theorized:

The amplifier circuits in the EQ sections were oscillating, leading to RF induced hum and overheating.

I swapped out the output transistor pair in each of the EQ amplifier circuits and voila... no noises, no hum, no problems...

To Sum up:

NOT powersupply related
NOT grounding related
NOT layout related
NOT induced EMI related
NOT wiring related.

index.php/fa/10273/0/

Title: Re: TnC 81 EQ Buzz / Hum SOLVED!!!
Post by: rodabod on November 03, 2008, 07:05:28 PM

This, although annoying, is relatively good news, so thanks for your work there Chuck.

I'm not sure how best for us all to get around this, but I could possibly help local people with sorting this fault assuming I can find time.

Roddy

Title: Re: TnC 81 EQ Buzz / Hum SOLVED!!!
Post by: nob turner on November 03, 2008, 07:30:24 PM

zmix wrote on Mon, 03 November 2008 16:01

I just wanted to post an update to the TNC 81 humm problem.

I solved it today, and it was exactly as I had theorized:
...

this is an amazing community. thanks chuck for your time and expertise!

Title: Re: TnC 81 EQ Buzz / Hum SOLVED!!!
Post by: Berolzheimer on November 03, 2008, 08:12:53 PM

zmix wrote on Mon, 03 November 2008 16:01

Thanks for figuring that out, Chuck. Can you recommend replacement parts, & perhaps where we can get them?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 03, 2008, 09:45:27 PM

With Chucks permission, heres a little more in depth

"
The TnC 81 hum problem was exactly as I had theorized:

The amplifier circuits in the EQ sections were oscillating, leading to RF induced hum and overheating.

Chance sent me some NTE substitutions for the for the parts I requested, I swapped them out and everything is running absolutely perfectly.

I do NOT recommend that these parts (NTE-186 and NTE-187) be used under any circumstance except with an expert repair person installing them because the pinouts do NOT match the actual part and it requires some pretty dicey crossing of the leads to fit them into the board... not a good bet for reliability.

To Sum up:

NOT powersupply related
NOT grounding related
NOT layout related
NOT induced EMI related
NOT wiring related

Also, NOT manufacturer error... the part in the schematic is the part used, and it is simply the wrong part for the circuit. the fix will be to order the correct parts for each of the 4 EQ boards ( Q4 must be a BC461 - 6 and Q5 must be BC441 - 6). The input board and HP / LP boards are fine as they are.."

Let me know if I can be of any further assistance in sorting this out.

Title: ACMP 81 Sound Clips
Post by: drBill on November 03, 2008, 10:37:33 PM

Hi Guys,

For those with the red "no" syndrome, those awaiting FedX, and those just bored or in search of adventure:

By Popular Request:

a little ACMP81 shootout.....

The suspects:

ACMP81 & Pro Tools HD w/ 192 i/o.

There are 4 files of a tune I did called "Swamp Gas". Very Happy

All previously mixed and mastered. I'm going to wait to tell you who is who and what is what until some have had the chance to listen critically.

Best to dowload and drop into your DAW if possible, as there are sections where it becomes quite obvious (to me at least) which is which and being able to A/B back and forth is invaluable for these types of comparisons. So check it out all the way. Listen to the distortion on the high guitars, the bass, drums, etc.

I really wanted to hear what mixes would sound like through the LINE INPUTS, so these files were all recorded or bounced to disc from the Digi 192 analog i/o and/or through the ACMP81 with NO EQ - LINE LEVEL inputs. All were previously mastered and are 24bit / 44.1k. FYI, that's my good friend Mike Hamilton ( http://www.mikehamiltonmusic.com/mikehamiltonmusic/Welcome.h tml) on Electric. I matched levels to within .1dB on the with a 1k tone before recording, so levels should be very, very close. One of files is a "control" file, bounced straight from BTD in PTHD3.

I think most of you will know what's what. Enjoy!!!! And, I suspect the value of ACMP81/84/73's is growing by the day........

Bill

Suspect #1
http://www.mindseyeprod.com/wpacmp81test/01SwampGas%25a9Will iamPearson%2cBMI.wav

Suspect #2
http://www.mindseyeprod.com/wpacmp81test/02SwampGas%25a9Will iamPearson%2cBMI.wav

Suspect #3
http://www.mindseyeprod.com/wpacmp81test/03SwampGas%25a9Will iamPearson%2cBMI.wav

Suspect#4
http://www.mindseyeprod.com/wpacmp81test/03SwampGas%25a9Will iamPearson%2cBMI.wav

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cameron_k on November 03, 2008, 11:25:33 PM

I was at the computer yesterday, checking my TNC user console page for good news re: shipping, when my old friend Rudolph asked if the red NOs were coming up as YESs yet.

Given the season and all, I felt obliged to say to him.......

ahem.........

"Rudolph, the red NOs rein dear".

Apologies - I got a bad batch of acid.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on November 03, 2008, 11:38:00 PM

I wanted to post an update about the weird negative cycle distortion I was experiencing with one of my 81s when the EQ was in circuit.

Here is a screen shot, and this was only present when the input signal was above -36dB:
index.php/fa/10246/0/

After I cured the oscillation issue, I was dismayed to hear this same distortion in that 81 when the EQ was engaged.

I manually bypassed each EQ section with a jumper and discovered that this distortion was coming from the HP / LP Filter section, and specifically from the first ampllifier stage.
I traced the source of the distortion to Q2 (a BC557) and replaced this defective transistor with one that I had previously removed from the other EQ amps and am very happy to report that the distortion is now gone.

Lucky for me these two unrelated problems were in the same unit...!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 04, 2008, 12:01:27 AM

So, that graph may have been a Fluke.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on November 04, 2008, 02:11:40 AM

cameron_k wrote on Mon, 03 November 2008 20:25

Aww Gee, am I missing something?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: organica on November 04, 2008, 03:08:09 AM

compasspnt wrote on Tue, 04 November 2008 00:01

So, that graph may have been a Fluke.

OK . ......... now I'm lost .

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: littlehat on November 04, 2008, 03:30:47 AM

compasspnt wrote on Tue, 04 November 2008 00:01

So, that graph may have been a Fluke.

Yeowtch!

Good one?

Wa Waaaaa.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on November 04, 2008, 06:06:49 AM

cameron_k wrote on Mon, 03 November 2008 22:25

"Rudolph, the red NOs rein dear".

compasspnt wrote on Mon, 03 November 2008 23:01

So, that graph may have been a Fluke.

These two should go to the back of the line immediately. Mad

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: tarnationsauce on November 04, 2008, 06:54:16 AM

Quote:

( Q4 must be a BC461 - 6 and Q5 must be BC441 - 6). The input board and HP / LP boards are fine as they are.."

Is the number 6 after the part number the quantity we'll need?
Thanks for sorting this issue out!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on November 04, 2008, 08:21:34 AM

tarnationsauce wrote on Tue, 04 November 2008 06:54

Quote:

( Q4 must be a BC461 - 6 and Q5 must be BC441 - 6). The input board and HP / LP boards are fine as they are.."

Is the number 6 after the part number the quantity we'll need?
Thanks for sorting this issue out!

No. The suffix "6" distinguishes the part. The BC441 and BC461 without the "6" can only handle 25% of the current that the "- 6" part can.

You will need 4 each of the BC461-6 and 4 each of the BC441-6 for every TnC-81 that you have.,

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on November 04, 2008, 08:25:59 AM

zmix wrote on Tue, 04 November 2008 08:21

You will need 4 each of the BC461-6 and 4 each of the BC441-6 for every TnC-81 that you have.,

Hi Chuck,

Do you have a preferred manufacturer and/or supplier for those part's?

Thanks!

-jonathan

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 04, 2008, 08:30:23 AM

groundhog wrote on Tue, 04 November 2008 03:08

compasspnt wrote on Tue, 04 November 2008 00:01

So, that graph may have been a Fluke.

OK . ......... now I'm lost .

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TB-AV on November 04, 2008, 09:08:42 AM

http://www.digitroncorp.com

They have both of those part numbers and about 5,000 of each.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on November 04, 2008, 09:18:22 AM

just a tip for US transistor buyers, i would strongly suggest ordering from mouser.com(a fave in the DIY synth world). no minimum orders, VERY fast, awesome customer service. i dont even bother with anywhere else unless mouser doesnt stock the part. i have gotten parts 2-3 days after an order, with ground shipping.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TB-AV on November 04, 2008, 09:30:11 AM

I didn't see them at Mouser, Digikey or Newark

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 04, 2008, 10:17:15 AM

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 03 November 2008 18:45

Also, NOT manufacturer error... the part in the schematic is the part used, and it is simply the wrong part for the circuit.

Chuck. Any ideas on how I can explain this to the manufacturer for future builds?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on November 04, 2008, 11:57:39 AM

groundhog wrote on Tue, 04 November 2008 00:08

compasspnt wrote on Tue, 04 November 2008 00:01

So, that graph may have been a Fluke.

OK . ......... now I'm lost .

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Tom L on November 04, 2008, 12:14:46 PM

Now we're Fluked

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on November 04, 2008, 12:33:14 PM

CHANCE wrote on Tue, 04 November 2008 10:17

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 03 November 2008 18:45

Also, NOT manufacturer error... the part in the schematic is the part used, and it is simply the wrong part for the circuit.

Chuck. Any ideas on how I can explain this to the manufacturer for future builds?

Yes, tell them that 3Q4, 4Q4, 5Q4, and 6Q4 need to be a BC461 - 6 in a TO-39 package and that 3Q5, 4Q5, 5Q5, and 6Q5 need to be a BC441 - 6 ina TO-39 package.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Kris on November 04, 2008, 12:40:15 PM

Whoever created the schematic could update it?

p.s. Nice work zmix.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 04, 2008, 12:50:09 PM

Anyone care to nominate Chuck (zmix) official TnC tech? I'll second.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: organica on November 04, 2008, 12:59:06 PM

I think he iz already .

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 04, 2008, 02:46:01 PM

Well, so far, the price is right...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on November 04, 2008, 02:57:26 PM

compasspnt wrote on Tue, 04 November 2008 14:46

Well, so far, the price is right...

you didn't get the memo?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on November 04, 2008, 08:58:13 PM

I was just wondering, I ordered a lot of stuff. Maybe a bit more than I really can use right now. I was wondering if it's possible at this late stage to see if someone else might want the 2 ACM-4's I ordered. (I ordered 14 mics and 6 pres).
I am guessing that this is probably too much trouble for Chance etc. but in case it's not and someone else was chomping at the bit to get a couple.....
I'd rather they go to someone who will appreciate them, and before I pay for shipping. You could put the balance from them toward my shipping bill.
(I am a little frightened at seeing my shipping duty bill when it comes.)

I totally understand if this is too much trouble.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: mattrussell on November 05, 2008, 11:05:59 AM

pete, my guess is you'll have no problem selling these after you receive them. the demand already seems very high. you'll easily be able to recover all of your money and i would think, you could probably make a good amount if you wanted to.

maybe when everyone has received their units, a thread could be started (here or in the saloon) for people looking to buy or sell units? i know that's not what this place is about, but i'm just thinking out loud. i already wish i bought a pair of 900's and more pre's.

Title: TnC 81 Alternate Hum Cure....
Post by: zmix on November 05, 2008, 12:24:00 PM

Please Note:

If your 81 has a HUM rather than a BUZZ... it may be a simple fix...

The difference in hum is very important. If the hum has a raspy, chainsaw like quality, then this may indicate an oscillation in the circuit. In addition, if the signal sounds distorted when the EQ is engaged, then the unit will require a different approach than the one I will outline here.

If the hum is a mellow, sine wave + overtones type of hum, then try this solution.

You will need a #1 and a #2 phillips screwdriver and an 8mm nutdriver, and a pair of rubber gloves.

Step 1:

Unplug the power cable.

Step 2

Remove the lid of the preamp using the #1 Phillips screwdriver..
There are two screws on each side, two in the back and two screws on the top.

Step 3

The power supply transformer is located in the rear right corner of the preamp as you face it from the front. It is fastened to the bottom of the chassis by a large phillips head screw and an 8mm nut. Put the nutdriver on that nut and the #2 phillips screwdriver on the screw on the bottom of the chassis. Gently loosen the screw, do not remove it, just loosen it by a quarter turn or so. so that the power transformer can be moved without too much force.

Step 4

Prepare the unit as follows:

Input Gain: Minimum

EQ: IN

LF: 330hz, gain fully up (clockwise)

LMF: 220hz HiQ IN Gain fully up

HMF: 1.5khz Hi Q IN Gain fully up.

Output fader fully up.

Connect the output of the preamp to a suitable monitoring device (console, etc).

Power up the module and connect it to the monitoring device.

Step 5

Turn up the gain until you can hear the HUM plainly.

Put on your rubber gloves.

Grip the power transformer and begin to rotate it. You will hear the timbre of the HUM change as you rotate the transformer.

Rotate the transformer to the point where the HUM is at it's minimum level.
Put the cover on temporarily and check the hum level. The cover will influence the magnetic field of the transformer, so this may take a few trials.

Step 6

Tighten the center bolt and replace the top cover.

Done!!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 05, 2008, 12:48:58 PM

Awesome Chuck.

Check is in the mail.

So Guinea-People, remember, the 81 apparently may have one of two problems:

Hum

Buzz

The "fix" is different, so read through these last two pages.

Plus, some 81's have no problems.

And so far, 73s and 84s seem to exhibit few to no "other" problems.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: MagnetoSound on November 05, 2008, 03:22:46 PM

compasspnt wrote on Wed, 05 November 2008 17:48

Awesome Chuck.

Check is in the mail.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on November 05, 2008, 04:00:53 PM

Perhaps Chance could hire a tech for a day or 2 to attack the pile of 81's that's left before sending them out to the rest of us? Assembly line like.....
Pretty please?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on November 05, 2008, 10:15:17 PM

Awwww Cheese-N-Crackers! as my grandmother would say. So it turns out there are TWO defects in the 81s??? One from a flawed schematic that the manufacturer followed and the other from a flaw in the power transformer installation from the manufacturer? Sheesh. I've also got a busted output LED on one of my 81s so that makes three for me..... ugh.... Shocked

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on November 05, 2008, 11:25:09 PM

chris carter wrote on Wed, 05 November 2008 22:15

NO!!!!!

To quote the hitchiker's guide to the galaxy:

Don't Panic..!

I should have been more clear:

These problems are NOT endemic.

IF you have a hum problem.. there are two possible solutions. I have illustrated them to the best of my abilities.

SOLUTIONS to POSSIBLE problems....

In other words "the presence of seatbelts in a car does not indicate that they are a hazard"

Let's not spread panic...

OK?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 06, 2008, 07:43:31 AM

A lot of orders were invoiced last night, so check your users console.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on November 06, 2008, 01:52:12 PM

I'm beginning to Jones.

Anyone get an ACM-70 that would like to spoonfeed me a review to tide me over? Smile

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on November 06, 2008, 02:29:16 PM

My order arrived in Florida yesterday and will ship out on Monday (hopefully) so I will have it On Wednesday!! HOORAY! Christmas come early man!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on November 06, 2008, 02:46:39 PM

Clifford. That's just wrong dude. Twisted Evil

But... good for you! Very Happy

Title: The LAST TnC 81 issue...
Post by: zmix on November 06, 2008, 03:07:27 PM

I think that I have discovered the LAST of the TnC 81 issues..

Here goes:

The Line input of the TnC 81 is in antiphase (

Title: Re: The LAST TnC 81 issue...
Post by: duckhunter on November 06, 2008, 04:50:22 PM

zmix wrote on Thu, 06 November 2008 14:07

I think that I have discovered the LAST of the TnC 81 issues..

Here goes:

The Line input of the TnC 81 is in antiphase (

Title: Re: The LAST TnC 81 issue...
Post by: Berolzheimer on November 06, 2008, 05:26:03 PM

zmix wrote on Thu, 06 November 2008 12:07

I think that I have discovered the LAST of the TnC 81 issues..

Here goes:

The Line input of the TnC 81 is in antiphase (

Title: Re: The LAST TnC 81 issue...
Post by: zmix on November 06, 2008, 05:41:30 PM

Berolzheimer wrote on Thu, 06 November 2008 17:26

zmix wrote on Thu, 06 November 2008 12:07

I think that I have discovered the LAST of the TnC 81 issues..

Here goes:

The Line input of the TnC 81 is in antiphase (

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 06, 2008, 06:45:45 PM

Chuck is a Genius, and we all thank him for his investigations.

But do indeed check YOURS to be sure there is a polarity wiring problem with your unit's line in, before you take it apart and rewire it.

They are probably all alike, but who knows...?

Title: Re: The LAST TnC 81 issue...
Post by: Berolzheimer on November 06, 2008, 07:19:47 PM

zmix wrote on Thu, 06 November 2008 14:41

Berolzheimer wrote on Thu, 06 November 2008 17:26

zmix wrote on Thu, 06 November 2008 12:07

I think that I have discovered the LAST of the TnC 81 issues..

Here goes:

The Line input of the TnC 81 is in antiphase (

Title: Re: The LAST TnC 81 issue...
Post by: Tom L on November 06, 2008, 11:16:57 PM

Berolzheimer wrote on Thu, 06 November 2008 15:22

Someone want to translate this into legalese?

Forthwith, it should be noted that the input fundamentally referred to as the Line input of the TnC 81 (heretofore noted as "TnC 81") has been determined to be in antiphase (

Title: Re: The LAST TnC 81 issue...
Post by: Berolzheimer on November 07, 2008, 12:19:28 AM

Excellent, Tom! Thanks!

Dean, does that make this all clearer for you?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: maxim on November 07, 2008, 07:23:53 AM

he needs a precedent...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: garret on November 07, 2008, 07:34:25 AM

maxim wrote on Fri, 07 November 2008 06:23

he needs a precedent...

Don't we all. I think we get one on Jan 20.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 07, 2008, 10:14:34 AM

Hey, this past group of orders went very smooth. On Wednesday, the shipper sent me around 25 orders that were packed and ready to go. I printed the labels and invoiced the orders. Thursday almost everyone paid, and today Friday they are being shipped.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Kris on November 07, 2008, 11:04:07 AM

You're welcome. .... I mean THANKS!!!! Cool

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 07, 2008, 11:14:42 AM

NB: Everyone planning to modify one of the TNC recent GB products, please be aware that we are having some special transformers made by the best transformer facility in the world, AMI/TAB-Funkenwerk.

I have a sample right now made for the ACM-3 ribbon that really improves the beast.

So hold off buying some goofy inferior thing, just to be mod-happy.

Details at Eleven.

Title: Re: The LAST TnC 81 issue...
Post by: duckhunter on November 07, 2008, 11:21:28 AM

Berolzheimer wrote on Thu, 06 November 2008 23:19

Excellent, Tom! Thanks!

Dean, does that make this all clearer for you?

Its all a lot clearer for me now. I now know the exact nature of the defects to use as the basis of my class action lawsuit against China.

I am, of course, kidding.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 07, 2008, 01:04:09 PM

International shipping with USPS (ugh!) A while back I filled out all the paperwork for customs along with the weight and dimensions. The label printed and was not rejected. Three days later, this package was returned to me. Their reason? They said I must add the H and the W, times 2, add the L and it must not total more than I think it was 72". Now we must re-pack in 2 boxes which will cost more. I did the math for this one order, and Fed Ex would have been MUCH cheaper to ship as one package. EVERYONE overwhelmingly requested USPS for their international shipping and I am stumped as to "why USPS?"

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on November 07, 2008, 01:10:33 PM

CHANCE wrote on Fri, 07 November 2008 12:04

H and the W, times 2, add the L and it must not total more than I think it was 72".

Damn, that's crazy! WTF? You'd think their software should do it correctly, or not at all... Rolling Eyes

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on November 07, 2008, 01:50:21 PM

CHANCE wrote on Fri, 07 November 2008 10:04

the answer is that USPS will deliver to our door, no brokerage fees, and quite often no other taxes.

Fedex ground or UPS ground both charge enormous broker fees and yada yada yada. ($$$)

I'm still wondering Chance, would it not be possible to grab a tech to attack the pile of 81s you have before you ship them out?

It would be far quicker I think than having them all returned or paying a hundred techs all over the world to futz with them. If a tech sets up an assembly line type repair he could probably fix them all in a few days.

If money is a problem with this I don't mind throwing in a few bucks toward a tech. But I'd really like to have working units arrive.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 07, 2008, 02:51:41 PM

I just spoke with Fed ex and USPS. Fed Ex priority international delivers to your door. USPS brokerage fees are included in their shipping quotes that I pass on to you, just like Fed Ex.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on November 07, 2008, 03:51:47 PM

compasspnt wrote on Fri, 07 November 2008 16:14

AWESOME! keep us posted. i was planning on experimenting, would MUCH rather have a clear path ahead. i also plan on ordering some NOS tubes, so when i get my order i can do some A/B-ing with the acm1200.

was the tab-funkenwerk x-former hard to drop in? i hear they can be delicate.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on November 07, 2008, 04:18:03 PM

CHANCE wrote on Fri, 07 November 2008 11:51

I just spoke with Fed ex and USPS. Fed Ex priority international delivers to your door. USPS brokerage fees are included in their shipping quotes that I pass on to you, just like Fed Ex.

With Fedex Air brokerage is included. Fedex ground is not. Plus when its USPS usually you don't end up paying taxes and duty here in Canada (for some reason).

But I have always shipped less stuff than this is. If having to separate it into 2 shipments changes the costs dramatically then perhaps you could give us an idea of what we're looking at in difference between Fedex Air and USPS.

Fedex ground just puts a bunch of the costs on our end and ends up costing more than anything else and taking longer.

Fedex Air is usually about double the cost of USPS in my experience. And there always seems to be a lot more costs on the receiving end with both Fedex Air or Ground.

I shipped a guitar in a cardboard case to California from Vancouver Fedex Air a couple of years ago and it cost over $300 one way. I could have bought a cheap return plane ticket to California, rented a car, and stayed in a hotel for a night for about the same amount.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on November 07, 2008, 04:35:57 PM

I know this is all overwhelming Chance, and I do appreciate all the hard work you are doing.
But I would still really appreciate a clarification on the defective 81s issue.
Are we expected to hire techs individually on our end to make them functionable? That's going to be quite difficult and possibly very costly for some of us.
I have suggested a couple times here already that I feel it would be easier to put all deliveries that include 81s on "hold" and hire a tech to come into your storage space and repair the defective ones (which if it is in fact a mistake in the actual original schematics, would mean them all) before sending out the remainder of the units.
And I don't mind pitching in financially towards that either if necessary and I'm sure others probably feel the same way.
It shouldn't take more than a few days to get them all fixed and working properly. Do it once and do it right.
So what do you think?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on November 07, 2008, 06:30:12 PM

Les Ismore wrote on Fri, 07 November 2008 16:35

Les,
Let's quantify that point in terms of money. Would you and the others be willing to pay $50 more for the 81 if it was in working condition? I'd say any work is simply adding to the production cost.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: escobar on November 07, 2008, 08:16:50 PM

zmix wrote on Fri, 07 November 2008 17:30

Les Ismore wrote on Fri, 07 November 2008 16:35

I would definitely pay an extra $50.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: tarnationsauce on November 07, 2008, 09:33:34 PM

I want my 81 as-is.

It is an easy fix.
We paid pennies on the dollar on the units.
We have been waiting nearly half a year.
We knew going in that this whole deal would have it's risks.
The preamps are functional and operate as intended (besides the anti-phase line input)with the EQ disengaged.
The logistics of fixing that many preamps would be difficult, expensive, and take a lot of time.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TB-AV on November 07, 2008, 09:54:26 PM

I did not purchase an 81 but I would like to thank Chuck for the depth and clarity of his analysis as well as his resolution of the problem.

An insightful read.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on November 07, 2008, 10:58:22 PM

tarnationsauce wrote on Fri, 07 November 2008 20:33

I want my 81 as-is.

It is an easy fix.
We paid pennies on the dollar on the units.
We have been waiting nearly half a year.
We knew going in that this whole deal would have it's risks.
The preamps are functional and operate as intended (besides the anti-phase line input)with the EQ disengaged.
The logistics of fixing that many preamps would be difficult, expensive, and take a lot of time.

I gotta agree. I think the parameters of this arrangement, including the time factor and the risk aspect, were reasonably clear going in. Chance isn't a mass manufacturer pushing a product, he just agreed to pull all this mess together for folks & save everyone some dough. To expect him to ship everything yesterday, when he really doesn't have staff or infrastructure to do so, is pushing expectations. Asking him to now set up an assembly line to do repairs is simply unreasonable IMHO.

Personally, I hope my pre (a 73) gets shipped soon and works as expected. But whenever it comes it will still be exciting, and if it turns out to need a bit of repair I'll figure out some way to deal with it. That's the ticket I bought, that's the ride I'm gonna take.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: escobar on November 07, 2008, 11:19:23 PM

I understand all of that. I'm just bummed since I don't really have the skills (or tools) to fix them myself so I will be paying extra no matter what. Any techs near L.A. want to make some cash fixing my 81s? Hit me up at info@socalsounddesign.com

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on November 07, 2008, 11:36:45 PM

Hey, I feel ya - and I didn't mean to single anyone out. But - the fixes described aren't that involved, so even if you don't want to do it it shouldn't be a big job for an experienced tech to do it.

I just don't think we should be asking Chance to do more than he's doing right now. The only reason I brought up the posts about people not getting invoiced yet is because they started feeling uncomfortable - and I'm not even involved, other than buying a pre. Shit, I got into this because a good friend hipped me to the buy - I don't even know Chance from Adam, really.

I made a joke or two about being impatient along the way, but I realized that this is basically just a working dude who has undertaken a huge-azz task, and it just doesn't seem right to start laying a bunch of pressure on him when he's in the home stretch. If this was some company then yeah, I'd expect support - but the bottom line is that this is a different deal.

It's a bummer about the issues with the 81s, but if it's not a major defect then things should probably just move forward, because otherwise those pre's won't see the light of day until sometime next year, after somebody does a mass fix or they get on a slow boat back to China for repair - and I doubt anybody wants that, y'know?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 08, 2008, 12:02:33 AM

Actually, it can now be revealed...

Chance and Adam are one and the same.

Ever seen them together...?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on November 08, 2008, 09:25:15 AM

Strangely, I'm actually looking forward to doing the repairs/mods on the units. Not that I really have the time, or a burning desire to mod, but to get acquainted with the tech behind things a bit more. It's an area I'm admittedly weak in....OK there are many other areas as well....but that's not what I'm talking about here.

BTW, if at some point along the way someone could find the time to put together a little walk through on the repairs that would be most helpful. Perhaps some photo’s with the ever popular and powerful pointing finger? If not I'm sure we can stumble through it, but it would be of great help.

Also, Terry are the TAB trannys the same as the ones available for the SM57/58's and the same that are used in the Telefunken M16MK2 or are these being custom made?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 08, 2008, 09:52:10 AM

Dan-O wrote on Sat, 08 November 2008 09:25

Terry, are the TAB trannys the same as the ones available for the SM57/58's and the same that are used in the Telefunken M16MK2 or are these being custom made?

Several versions of transformers are being designed for different microphones.

I will get some samples is a few days, and sme mics t try them in.

We will have some details very soon.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: plughead on November 08, 2008, 12:55:43 PM

IMO,

For int'l shipping, go with easiest and cheapest. I merely don't want to pay 3X my order's value for shipping - ground is fine.

IME, USPS does not charge 'brokerage fees' - that is something that couriers use as a cash cow. I've NEVER been charged with brokerage fees via USPS, however I have through FedEx/UPS/DHL etc.

In any case, so long as Chance gets the orders out in an easy and cost-conscious manner, I don't really care...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Ozzy on November 08, 2008, 01:04:47 PM

PlugHead wrote on Sat, 08 November 2008 17:55

IMO,

For int'l shipping, go with easiest and cheapest. I merely don't want to pay 3X my order's value for shipping.

Ditto

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rodabod on November 08, 2008, 01:59:24 PM

Just a note regarding the mics, I'd suggest trying a different capsule in most of these Chinese condenser mics if you are going to the effort of modifying them as the standard capsules are not great in my opinion. Changing to a decent capsule has quite a massive effect on the sound (unsurprisingly).

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 08, 2008, 02:02:45 PM

BTW, my post about the TAB-Funk transformers was not meant to impugn any other particular transformer maker, just to let people know that we will have excellent third party custom-designed transformers out there available for several particular microphones.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bob_K on November 08, 2008, 03:03:24 PM

So, I have a few NTE-186 and NTE-187's in my drawer, but I can't figure out what substitutes what? what is Q4 supposed to be and what is Q6 supposed to be?

I can't find any BC461 - 6 and BC441 - 6's either so I figured these NTE"s would would according to Chance's post.

i also posted this on the prodigy forum

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 08, 2008, 04:44:07 PM

Hey Bob. Welcome to PSW.
The substitutes I sent to Chuck will work but have a different pin-out meaning you must carefully twist without touching. Chuck might jump in here but I think he posted this info earlier.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bob_K on November 08, 2008, 05:18:35 PM

I saw the photo with the different pin outs, but I have been reading and have yet to find which one is which,

Howard

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on November 09, 2008, 02:57:19 AM

I guess that no reply from Chance to my questions is an answer in of itself, and thats fine. I'm sure he has all he can handle without trying to start repairing stuff. I do appreciate all his efforts.
I'll hire a tech to make the 81s workable after I receive them.
And thanks a lot to Chuck for your work too.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: matti on November 09, 2008, 07:54:00 AM

Bob_K wrote on Sat, 08 November 2008 16:18

I saw the photo with the different pin outs, but I have been reading and have yet to find which one is which,

Howard

"3Q4, 4Q4, 5Q4, and 6Q4 need to be a BC461 - 6 in a TO-39 package and that 3Q5, 4Q5, 5Q5, and 6Q5 need to be a BC441 - 6 ina TO-39 package."

Matti

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 09, 2008, 09:45:28 AM

Les, I think possibilities are being investigated.

Thanks.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on November 09, 2008, 10:41:51 AM

Well, if something is worked out for everyone to get their pres fixed by one LA person or something, I'd really like that. I don't think I have the skills to do the fix(es) and not mess it up and cause more damage. Plus, I also have an output LED on one of my 81s that doesn't work which is really driving me nuts, so I have to figure out that one as well. So if there's a one-stop shop where all the pres are getting fixed here, that would be great for me.

If that doesn't work, maybe someone in LA with the experience who is fixing theirs wouldn't mind a pair of extra hands to help out in exchange for fixing mine at the same time?? Ummmm... I can bake some really damn good brownies if that's extra incentive LOL....

EDIT: BTW - didn't mean to sound pissy. I've used the pres a few times and I think they sound really suprisingly good. I just want to use the EQ part too (that's mainly what I bought them for) Razz

Thanks again Chance for making this possible!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on November 09, 2008, 01:28:12 PM

rodabod wrote on Sat, 08 November 2008 18:59

im curious about where you have sourced a good replacement capsule, and how difficult a swap is, in general. i'm used to working on pcb-based things, or amps-resistors, caps, etc. not too much with mics. thanks for any advice.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bob_K on November 09, 2008, 01:49:06 PM

matti wrote on Sun, 09 November 2008 06:54

Bob_K wrote on Sat, 08 November 2008 16:18

I saw the photo with the different pin outs, but I have been reading and have yet to find which one is which,

Howard

"3Q4, 4Q4, 5Q4, and 6Q4 need to be a BC461 - 6 in a TO-39 package and that 3Q5, 4Q5, 5Q5, and 6Q5 need to be a BC441 - 6 ina TO-39 package."

Matti

There is a post about using an NTE186 and a NTE187, my question is what part do they replace? Does the NTE186 replace the BC461 - 6 or the BC441 - 6 ?
and does the NTE187 replace the BC461 - 6 or the BC441 - 6 ? I can't remember the person's name on this forum that did it, but apparently it has been done with success.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on November 09, 2008, 02:55:35 PM

compasspnt wrote on Sun, 09 November 2008 06:45

Les, I think possibilities are being investigated.

Thanks.

Thanks Terry

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TB-AV on November 09, 2008, 03:48:26 PM

BC441-6 = NPN
BC461-6 = PNP

-----------

NTE186 = NPN
NTE187 = PNP

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bob_K on November 09, 2008, 04:24:39 PM

TB-AV wrote on Sun, 09 November 2008 14:48

BC441-6 = NPN
BC461-6 = PNP

-----------

NTE186 = NPN
NTE187 = PNP

so,
does this mean that the BC441-6 = NTE186 and the BC461-6 = NTE187, barring the difference in pin out of course.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 09, 2008, 04:24:43 PM

TB-AV wrote on Sun, 09 November 2008 12:48

BC441-6 = NPN
BC461-6 = PNP

-----------

NTE186 = NPN
NTE187 = PNP

Hey Tom
Are those direct equivelant replacment numbers?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on November 09, 2008, 04:28:02 PM

CHANCE wrote on Sun, 09 November 2008 16:24

TB-AV wrote on Sun, 09 November 2008 12:48

BC441-6 = NPN
BC461-6 = PNP

-----------

NTE186 = NPN
NTE187 = PNP

Hey Tom
Are those direct equivelant replacment numbers?

Chance,

Those are the part numbers of the NTE substitutes that you sent me.

I do NOT recommend them for general replacements.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bob_K on November 09, 2008, 04:46:19 PM

zmix wrote on Sun, 09 November 2008 15:28

CHANCE wrote on Sun, 09 November 2008 16:24

TB-AV wrote on Sun, 09 November 2008 12:48

BC441-6 = NPN
BC461-6 = PNP

-----------

NTE186 = NPN
NTE187 = PNP

Hey Tom
Are those direct equivelant replacment numbers?

Chance,

Those are the part numbers of the NTE substitutes that you sent me.

I do NOT recommend them for general replacements.

zmix,
Do you have an NTE replacement suggestion?

thanks

Howard

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on November 09, 2008, 05:11:27 PM

No.

All NTE parts have 'American" pinouts. I don't recommend them.

It seems that people are having some difficulty finding all the information I have posted on the subject, and I find the same questions coming up again. Perhaps Terry can make a subset of those on Chance's website or somewhere else that will be easy to locate?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: hargerst on November 09, 2008, 05:20:10 PM

Here are some examples of the unmodded pre's. This is from a new unreleased album by "Color of May", recorded by my son Alex. "Drive" is an MXL Genesis mic into the 73, "Alive" is the MXL Genesis mic into the 84, and "Changing" is an MXL Genesis mic into an SST-1 Origin.

drive.mp3

alive.mp3

changing.mp3

The bass on "Drive" and "Alive" was also run through the 1073.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rodabod on November 09, 2008, 05:52:20 PM

rjd2 wrote on Sun, 09 November 2008 18:28

For a simpler swap, I think Peluso might be a decent option. I recently tried an SE Electronics made version of the CEK12 which they do which is pretty nice. Bright, but not shrill.

For soemthing requiring more work, one of Dale Ulan's capsules would be nice like his M7-type capsules which I have one of.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 10, 2008, 09:03:26 AM

Just a quick note
There will be no invoicing or shipping until Wednesday. I was asked to fly in my friends Beech Bonanza and sit in on a session on Catalina island for a couple of days. I need a break from my domain. I'll still have internet access, but a short break is needed to recharge my batteries.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 10, 2008, 11:07:29 AM

Fly Safe Friend.

Are you right seat for this, or left?

Bonanza is slightly heavy feeling to me on landing. I like to hold power longer than my normal.

Everyone:

Great Transformer News coming later today.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 10, 2008, 11:43:10 AM

I'm sitting this one out. V-tails seem unstable yaw. I'm a rudder/stab/elevator fly guy.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: drBill on November 10, 2008, 11:57:50 AM

compasspnt wrote on Mon, 10 November 2008 10:07

Great Transformer News coming later today.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: drBill on November 10, 2008, 11:59:45 AM

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 10 November 2008 10:43

I'm sitting this one out. V-tails seem unstable yaw. I'm a rudder/stab/elevator fly guy.

Fly safe Chance!! That airport always freaks me out.....

BTW, using the pre's and a couple of ribbons on an oboe solo today. Maybe I'll throw up a 6802T as well. KM84 as the main mic though, ribbons for the blumlein room. I'll use the ACMP's as well. Oboe is always a telling instrument for me. We'll see how it goes.....

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 10, 2008, 12:15:35 PM

hargerst wrote on Sun, 09 November 2008 14:20

Harvey, Do you remember what kind of bass that was?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on November 10, 2008, 12:18:28 PM

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 10 November 2008 08:43

I'm sitting this one out. V-tails seem unstable yaw. I'm a rudder/stab/elevator fly guy.

I'm just glad you aren't a dentist.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 10, 2008, 12:25:07 PM

hargerst wrote on Sun, 09 November 2008 14:20

I can't seem to get to those files.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on November 10, 2008, 12:26:58 PM

neither can I.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on November 10, 2008, 12:30:45 PM

drBill wrote on Mon, 10 November 2008 11:59

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 10 November 2008 10:43

I'm sitting this one out. V-tails seem unstable yaw. I'm a rudder/stab/elevator fly guy.

Fly safe Chance!! That airport always freaks me out.....

Agreed!! They always seem to make the landing too far into the runway for my tastes. Get a crosswind and forget it. Wild ride time.

Fly safe Chance.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on November 10, 2008, 12:33:30 PM

hargerst wrote on Sun, 09 November 2008 17:20

I can't get to these either.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 10, 2008, 12:35:38 PM

compasspnt wrote on Mon, 10 November 2008 09:25

hargerst wrote on Sun, 09 November 2008 14:20

I can't seem to get to those files.

This should do it
http://homerecording.com/bbs/showthread.php?t=273250

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on November 10, 2008, 12:45:50 PM

Actually, if you check the URL it's coming up as:

http://recforums.prosoundweb.com/"http://itrstudio.com/drive.mp3"

Try this:
http://itrstudio.com/drive.mp3
http://itrstudio.com/alive.mp3
http://itrstudio.com/changing.mp3

Oh, and...

100 Pages! w00t! Very Happy

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 10, 2008, 02:17:56 PM

Very cool Harvey and Alex!

So, what was recorded through the TNC ACMPs?

Vocal? More? I know you mentioned bass.

Thanks for those.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: hargerst on November 11, 2008, 12:48:05 AM

If Hailey used her own bass, it's a Fender Jazz Bass with a maple neck; if not, it's probably one of ours - I'll check with Alex.

The 1073 was used for the two bass tracks on "Drive" and "Alive", and for all the vocals on "Drive". The vocals on "Alive" were all done with the 1084.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 11, 2008, 01:41:25 AM

I am impressed.

Someday soon, I will see one of these units.

T

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: organica on November 11, 2008, 02:47:01 AM

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 11, 2008, 10:12:47 AM

I have a 73 with me here in Catalina. killer DI!!! I guess my brick will be used only for my remotes.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on November 11, 2008, 10:18:51 AM

My order is ON THE ISLAND!!!!!
I should have it this afternoon.
Mr. Manning you are more than welcome to look at mine, as long as you don't touch!! Shocked

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: NelsonL on November 11, 2008, 10:34:25 AM

CHANCE wrote on Tue, 11 November 2008 07:12

I have a 73 with me here in Catalina. killer DI!!! I guess my brick will be used only for my remotes.

Wow, I was thinking of buying a Brick just because I like the DI so much, that's impressive. Very Exciting.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 11, 2008, 11:08:40 AM

NelsonL wrote on Tue, 11 November 2008 07:34

CHANCE wrote on Tue, 11 November 2008 07:12

I have a 73 with me here in Catalina. killer DI!!! I guess my brick will be used only for my remotes.

Wow, I was thinking of buying a Brick just because I like the DI so much, that's impressive. Very Exciting.

Hey! I'm not knocking the brick. The brick is excellent but more of a portable piece of gear and the 73 will be racked and stay put

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: NelsonL on November 11, 2008, 12:45:20 PM

CHANCE wrote on Tue, 11 November 2008 08:08

NelsonL wrote on Tue, 11 November 2008 07:34

CHANCE wrote on Tue, 11 November 2008 07:12

I have a 73 with me here in Catalina. killer DI!!! I guess my brick will be used only for my remotes.

Wow, I was thinking of buying a Brick just because I like the DI so much, that's impressive. Very Exciting.

Hey! I'm not knocking the brick. The brick is excellent but more of a portable piece of gear and the 73 will be racked and stay put

Ahh that makes sense-- just happy to see more "stuff that works" for such reasonable prices.

Guy Clark anyone? I love that tune, words to live by in a consumer age.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 12, 2008, 02:45:32 PM

Don't fly a V-tail in or out of Catalina!!! We were on final, ATC told us about cross winds and we flared with the aircraft about 30 degrees yaw. Wierd! We were going straight but the craft was pointing slightly to the left. When we TD, I thought he was going to lose it. Again, give me a rudder any day. V-tails to a plane are like a bass with 5 strings.

Back OT several orders will be shipped this afternoon.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Kris on November 12, 2008, 03:13:00 PM

Sounds like fun! I've experienced similar landings...

I was tracking acoustic guitar and vocals yesterday. I compared the ACMP-73 with my rack of SCA N72s on both instruments. They were VERY similar in quality! I used the ACMP-73 all day. The eq is great.

Thanks!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 12, 2008, 03:17:27 PM

Kris wrote on Wed, 12 November 2008 12:13

That's great to hear Kris. Did you happen to try the DI?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Kris on November 12, 2008, 03:29:17 PM

Not yet... but soon! Very Happy

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: drBill on November 13, 2008, 02:16:36 AM

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 12 November 2008 13:45

LOL

chance - reminds me of a flight I had with an old bush pilot is australia once. Man, that landing will be etched in my memory forever!!!!!!!!

Glad you made it out OK.

bp

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on November 13, 2008, 04:14:41 PM

Ma tings reach mon Very Happy

My broker finally delivered my 2 kinda big box's. I cant wait till I get home. No sleep tonight Very Happy

Thanks again to all that was involved.

Hmmm, what to try first? Very Happy

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on November 13, 2008, 05:24:50 PM

I'm picking mine up on Sunday, & will be doing a session in a house with drumset, tabla & 'cello on Monday. I'll see if I can post some bits.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on November 13, 2008, 06:23:34 PM

Berolzheimer wrote on Thu, 13 November 2008 16:24

I'm picking mine up on Sunday, & will be doing a session in a house with drumset, tabla & 'cello on Monday. I'll see if I can post some bits.

Hmm...that sounds quite cool, GAS notwithstanding. Please do! Cool

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 13, 2008, 11:55:45 PM

Great Group Buy News!

TNC announce Custom wound transformers for TNC microphones, at Group Buy Special Prices!

TNC have now arranged to offer transformers custom designed and hand wound for specific models of the TNC microphones. Also in the works are drop-in replacement electronics that will be designed to even better utilise the capabilities of the stock capsules, and also to integrate with certain of the custom transformers.

Transformers are designed and manufactured by AMI/TAB-Funkenwerk in Gaylord, Kansas, by Mr. Oliver Archut.

Electronics are being custom designed by Lucas Engineering technicians. They will be manufactured in the USA or the Bahamas, and will be available soon. We will also have available upgraded "pre-modified" microphones in each style, at some point in the near future.

TRANSFORMERS:

*Model ACM 1/2 ($75) This transformer is purposefully made for exact replacement in the ACM-1 or the ACM-2 ribbon mics.

*Model ACM3 ($65) Exact upgrade replacement for the ACM-3 ribbon mic.

(The stock ribbon mics all now share the same stock Chinese transformer. The replacement transformers have the same exact ratio, but the resonance and the high end response are tuned for each given mic.)

*Model T14-1200 ($75) Exact drop in replacement for stock ACM-1200. No electronics modifications necessary.

*Model T14-C12 ($75) Replacement transformer for ACM-1200, but can only be coupled with the custom C12-based electronics PC board upgrade (now in design by Lucas techs, but based on Oliver's original design parameters for the C12VR upgrade electronics).

(The T14-1200 transformers are based on the Hiller T14-C12 transformer (ratio 12 to 1), as used in early C12 mics, but have the ratio of 9 to 1 as used in the stock ACM-1200.)

*Model T47 ($85) Replacement transformer for ACM-1200 with U47-like transformer characteristics (BV8), but can only be coupled with the custom "47" electronics PC board upgrade (now in design by Lucas techs, and based on a simplified 47-inspired electronics circuit).

*Model T49 ($85) Replacement transformer for ACM-1200 with UM49-like transformer characteristics, but can only be coupled with the custom "49" electronics PC board upgrade (now in design by Lucas techs, based on a simplified 49-inspired electronics circuit).

*Model T67 ($90) Replacement transformer for ACM-1200 with U67-like transformer characteristics, but can only be coupled with the custom "67" electronics PC board upgrade (now in design by Lucas techs, based on a simplified 67-inspired electronics circuit).

(The 47-49-67 transformers are based on a Neumann-inspired transformer. They come in the three different ratios of 6:1 for 47-styled electronics, 10:1 for 49-styled electronics, and 7:1 / with feedback winding for 67-styled electronics.)

To order as part of the Group Buy, email to

tnc-transformers@compasspointstudios.com

Include name, shipping address, and payment information. Paypal capability is being worked out now, hopefully coming soon. For immediate orders, you can use a credit card.

We will try to answer questions, but be advised that our emails are going crazy, and there is so much to do on this "little" Group Buy that we have to focus first on shipments!

Please keep all commercial transactions off of the Forum.

All of this should make for a lot of fun and experimentation! We will try to put together a couple of youtube videos that show how to modify, and especially, how NOT to modify (ie, kill yourself).

Enjoy!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: organica on November 14, 2008, 12:24:30 AM

coolness !

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on November 14, 2008, 01:17:49 AM

Fascinating Captain!

Any idea how much the electronics board upgrades are gonna cost that are designed to go with the custom transformers?

And how would that affect if we upgraded to a better capsule?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: reverendray on November 14, 2008, 01:29:10 AM

I'll check for my invoice every. Thanks Chance for using USPS I know It's a lot more trouble but I have had such a pain with the brokerage methods of the commercial shipping companies.
cheers Ray

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 14, 2008, 01:55:12 AM

LI, Honestly, I wouldn't upgrade the capsule.

Despite what a couple of people have said, I find the capsule pretty decent.

It *might* be that they have not tried these new capsules from China, and are relying in past experiences. And maybe not.

Certainly by far the weakest parts are the transformer and electronics.

These capsules may not have *exactly* the same sound as a CK12 or M7 or whatever, but they do have a decently balanced sound, and most importantly, good resolution.

They just keep getting better over there at making capsules.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on November 14, 2008, 01:59:19 AM

Damn, I ordered 1 1200, now I wish I'd gotten 4.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on November 14, 2008, 02:15:48 AM

reverendray wrote on Thu, 13 November 2008 22:29

I'll check for my invoice every. Thanks Chance for using USPS I know It's a lot more trouble but I have had such a pain with the brokerage methods of the commercial shipping companies.
cheers Ray

What Ray said, (hi Ray)

Thanks for the response Terry, I ordered 2 of the 1200, only to realize I already own a couple. They do sound fairly decent as is with the stock capsules, but I definitely would be interested in maybe modding 2 to more of a realistic C12 vibe and the other 2 to a U47 vibe. I always wanted to have a U47......
Razz

I think I'll wait a little until you get an idea how much the electronics are gonna cost as I'd like to switch it and the tranny if I can afford it.
I still have to save my pennies until I get my shipping bill for the current buy (I'm a little scared to see how much it's gonna be).
14 mics and 6 pres. I have a feeling it ain't gonna be cheep.
I think I got a little carried away....

oh well it'll be fun

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 14, 2008, 08:14:29 AM

Les Ismore wrote on Fri, 14 November :15

14 mics and 6 pres... think I got a little carried away....

As they say, "Less is more."

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Rader Ranch on November 14, 2008, 08:44:50 AM

was gonna go with the heavy lady at wedding, but this seemed moar appropriate...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 14, 2008, 09:41:45 AM

I was sent 2 of the upgraded 1200's. I only had them for a week and had to send them to New York for evaluation. They were AWSOME!!! When I shipped them to NY, I felt like Charlton Heston when he said " you'll have to pry this gun (mic) from my cold dead hands" LOL

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on November 14, 2008, 09:57:53 AM

this is awesome. i'll definitely be in for a good chunk of replacement transformers.

on the electronics upgrade-will this be released as just a BOM and instructions in typical DIY form? that would be great-then i can order parts for all the mics in one fell swoop.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Rader Ranch on November 14, 2008, 10:33:43 AM

Hey Chance,

with these developments, instead of removing, um, was it the 300 mic that was cancelled???.....it seems it'd be better to just add another $35 to get another 1200. Could that be done?

ALso, hope the folks at Lucas (and Oliver) are looking at a KM84 kit for the 310 Twisted Evil

coooolllllll.....

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 14, 2008, 11:18:26 AM

Rader Ranch wrote on Fri, 14 November 2008 07:33

coooolllllll.....

Unfortunately no because everything has already been paid for, manufactured, and shipped from China per everyone's order.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Ozzy on November 14, 2008, 11:28:39 AM

Was wondering when you'd be getting round to shipping my order to the UK. Still no shipping invoice yet and I was worried I may have missed something?

Kind regards

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 14, 2008, 11:40:44 AM

Ozzy wrote on Fri, 14 November 2008 08:28

Was wondering when you'd be getting round to shipping my order to the UK. Still no shipping invoice yet and I was worried I may have missed something?

Kind regards

All I can say is keep checking your users console.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Crash on November 14, 2008, 11:46:43 AM

I was pleasantly surprised to see my order ready to go this morning. I was starting to get a complex....One more green "yes" and it is all good. Whoohoo!!!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Rader Ranch on November 14, 2008, 11:48:39 AM

CHANCE wrote on Fri, 14 November 2008 11:18

Unfortunately no because everything has already been paid for, manufactured, and shipped from China per everyone's order.

no sweat.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on November 14, 2008, 12:38:40 PM

Rader Ranch

ALso, hope the folks at Lucas (and Oliver) are looking at a KM84 kit for the 310 Twisted Evil

coooolllllll.....

Yes please.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 14, 2008, 01:17:20 PM

I will tell you that I was very impressed with the ACM-310 when I got mine. Tried it immediately, right out of the box, on a drum kit. One mic, hung over the top Ringo-style.

It sounded great. Big, bouncy, meaty. Only needed a bit of close BD to be perfect.

So, I too am very interested in taking even more advantage of this mic's capabilities.

Therefore I am looking inside one at this very moment.

Details forthcoming when possible.

This is fun.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Tom L on November 14, 2008, 02:33:53 PM

I got to the studio 5 minutes after FED EX came. Fortunately they left the packages with the Pilates place next door.

"There's two big boxes here for you and one is REALLY heavy."

"Of course it's heavy. There's four Chi-neves in there!"

woo-hoo

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zunrize on November 14, 2008, 02:36:37 PM

Terry,
Have you or Oliver had a chance to change out the stock 12AX7 tube with something of higher quality? And would it make a big difference in the tone?
I have a few old Mullards and Amperex I might try.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on November 14, 2008, 02:47:07 PM

I'm still stoked about my ACM-70's.

Really nothing to say about one yet?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 14, 2008, 04:10:09 PM

zunrize wrote on Fri, 14 November 2008 14:36

Yes, we will be making recommendations about the tubes. A better tube (as long as it is properly matched to the electronics and PSU) will definitely help make a difference.

More to come.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on November 14, 2008, 05:27:12 PM

compasspnt wrote on Fri, 14 November 2008 13:17

Well that's 3 of the mics I ordered so far that I had hopes for getting great reviews. ACM-900, ACM-3(including the tyrannies news which I've taken advantage of already), and now the ACM-310.

A mod for the ACM-310 would be stellar!

I now wish I had gone some the 1200's. I'm REALLY curious to hear one after some of the upgrades. I own 2 of the Telefunken M16mk2's and really love them. It would seem that the mods being offered "might" be similar to what Telefunken have done with the m16mk2.

(That's "might be similar". I'm sure the Telefunken is an original design so I'm not insinuating that these are the same mods at all IN ANY WAY. That's my disclaimer. Every time I seem to mention the m16mk2 all hell breaks lose for me. I don't wish to go through that again. I'm happy with my purchase of m16mk2's and Telefunken have been more than good with me so let's just leave it at that.)

Anyway, that's great news Terry. Thanks.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 14, 2008, 06:00:25 PM

Hey Dan-O.

I hear the Telefunken versions are good ones.

The TNC Mods will not be the same at all, but should be every bit as good, but in different categories.

If that makes sense.

I know we are very confident about what we are doing.

And nothing will break any banks.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TheDan on November 14, 2008, 06:36:27 PM

zunrize wrote on Fri, 14 November 2008 14:36

I tried out a NOS Beckman 12AU7 in one of my 1200s, there was a subtle difference in the overall response. Little bit smoother in the high mids, it seemed, and slightly lower output.

I am sure an upgraded transformer will make the most difference.

Watch out for those pad switches! Both of mine make rather loud pops.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on November 14, 2008, 06:45:11 PM

A 12AU7 has much less gain that a 12AX7, so you will get lower output.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on November 14, 2008, 09:03:34 PM

compasspnt wrote on Fri, 14 November 2008 18:00

Yes the cost factor with the Telefunken's smart a bit in lou of the obvious. Nuff said. I think their great mics and they've see use on about every project since 2004. (Yes I had the original m16's. As a matter of fact I had #004 and #023. I won't speak of this further)

As I said, at some point I'd love to hear some 1200's with the TnC mods to compare. The m16mk2's are shooting for a mixed vibe according to Telefunken. Part C12, part U47. Only being somewhat exposed and mildly familiar with the C12VR and not in the least with a U47, I can't say whether nor not they achieved this. I do know that the m16mk2 with the R-F-T ECC81/TAB Tyranny in it has extended and somewhat richer low-end and smooth highs (unlike the C12VR IMO). With the GE JAN6072a they came with originally (Yes they made a change to the m16mk2 somewhere along the line moving to the R-F-T ECC81 and the TAB Tyranny so it would seem) they have IMO a little more extended high-end and more forward upper-mid. The low-end is not quite as rich with the lower gain 6072a in that design. But not by much. The mids certainly change though. I swap around the valves for different apps..

So there's the review you didn't ask for.

Looking forward to the TnC line of things.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 15, 2008, 04:10:56 PM

Dan-O wrote on Fri, 14 November 2008 21:03

So there's the review you didn't ask for.

Looking forward to the TnC line of things.

Nice.

Don't forget the cleaning cloths.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: drBill on November 15, 2008, 04:39:29 PM

Terry / Chance -

Here's a thought for you. since the mods seem to be concentrating on new boards/electronics and transformers while keeping the stock cap, is there a way to mount the transformer to the board itself and make it a (relatively) quick disconnect from the body of the mic. (Ala the innertube mod for the U87)

THEN, with 2 1200's we could have either a pair of C12 clones OR a pair of (47/67/49) clones by swapping out the electronics/transformer board.....

I think THAT would be a killer design. Either way, I'm up for the C12's out of the gate.

bp

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 15, 2008, 05:40:13 PM

Hey dr

Killer idea

Of course there are "just" xfmrs, but a swappable mod would be amazing

Will check to see if it is possible, and would be easy enough

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: drBill on November 15, 2008, 06:04:54 PM

compasspnt wrote on Sat, 15 November 2008 16:40

Hey dr

Killer idea

Of course there are "just" xfmrs, but a swappable mod would be amazing

Will check to see if it is possible, and would be easy enough

Thanks Terry!

Hey, I've got some other pretty interesting ideas as well. Maybe I should schedule lunch with Chance soon.

Anyway, here's a link to something similar (at least in terms of swapability concept.)

The Innertube mod for the U87.

http://www.innertubeaudio.com/u87retrofit.html

Similar to what I'm suggesting for the 1200. The potential idea killer would be if the different mic variations (49/67/C12/47) needed different PS mods. If not, I don't see why you couldn't just swap out the internals. I'm going to have a look at my 1200's now and see how difficult it might (or might not) be.

Cheers,

bp

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: drBill on November 15, 2008, 06:12:41 PM

Hi Terry -

Just checked the mic. The potential "issues" would be in the bottom of the mic where the transformer and connector are located and the connections from the PCB's to the capsule. I'm not a mechanical engineer, but I'd bet there's a pretty easy workaround.

If not, you could buy the base and two long metal strips that go into the headbasket from China, and ship the modded mic with the 2pcb's, tube (opt) and transformer/base intact - basically the bottom half of the mic. Then it's only a matter of a quick disconnect on the headbasket.

It all seems simple to me, but I'm sure there are "issues" that I'm not thinking of. For instance, the headbasket of a U87 removes much easier than the 1200's. It might not be a 2 minute swap, but hopefully not too difficult either.

Cheers,

bp

PS - kind of a reverse Korby - switching electronics instead of capsules.....

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 15, 2008, 06:39:17 PM

OK. We have an answer.

Our most esteemed adviser and technical expert extraordinaire has said:

"For the current microphones a swappable version would unfortunately be too complicated, and in the end, keeping the electronics boards as simple as they are will keep them cheap enough so people will be able to afford more than one mic at a time. If we redesigned for "swappable," the cost would go up considerably."

But we'll keep looking at the idea...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: MagnetoSound on November 15, 2008, 06:44:50 PM

The PSU issue is going to be difficult to get round.

All those mics (C12, U47, M49, U67) have radically different tubes and voltages.

Given the real affordability of these mics in the first place, why not just do a different mod to each one (or pair) and allow a dedicated PSU for each circuit?

Plus, that way, you could use them all at the same time! Surprised

(EDIT: I just saw the recent post above, sorry!)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rodabod on November 15, 2008, 06:48:45 PM

MagnetoSound wrote on Sat, 15 November 2008 23:44

The PSU issue is going to be difficult to get round.

All those mics (C12, U47, M49, U67) have radically different tubes and voltages.

I'm guessing the PSU might be left stock, and the PSU voltages adjusted within the mic. The stock voltages are too high anyway, both for the HT and heater supply.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 15, 2008, 07:24:18 PM

rodabod wrote on Sat, 15 November 2008 18:48

MagnetoSound wrote on Sat, 15 November 2008 23:44

The PSU issue is going to be difficult to get round.

All those mics (C12, U47, M49, U67) have radically different tubes and voltages.

I'm guessing the PSU might be left stock, and the PSU voltages adjusted within the mic. The stock voltages are too high anyway, both for the HT and heater supply.

I think this is indeed what is contemplated.

What a fun little platform for messing with stuff.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 15, 2008, 07:38:35 PM

Last night I was invoicing and sending some E-mails off, and I hear a knock at the door. I totally forgot I had vox OD's booked for the night. Really embarrassing.
Anyone tired of waiting, there are some things you can get real quick. LOL
http://www.cafepress.com/tnc_audio

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 15, 2008, 07:57:57 PM

We have been getting TONS of emails about getting the transformers, enquiring about the electronics upgrades, and asking many other questions.

The transformers listed will be available very quickly. The only "problem" is getting the best way to pay for them hooked up quickly. Anyone comfortable with giving out their payment information will get them first; for anyone not comfortable with that, we are working on secure payment options, as well as hooking up Paypal.

As for the electronics upgrades, the Lucas engineers are going as fast as they can getting them worked out. We are designing these to be simple and direct, based in principle upon the stated influence, with good components, and be able to interface perfectly with the TAB-Funkenwerk transformers. So it's not an overnight thing, but will come together shortly.

We do plan to look into the 6802 as an upgrade platform, but only after the 1200 situation is implemented.

For the 310, we are planning a fully upgraded model for the Bulldog line, with great electronics, TAB xfrmr, and tuned PSU. This will not happen overnight, but is in the works already.

Thanks for all the interest; we are as excited as everyone else about making all the microphone experimentation stuff...

We will answer the email questions, and get the orders going as soon as we can. This is all bigger than anyone ever expected!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on November 15, 2008, 08:04:43 PM

compasspnt wrote on Sat, 15 November 2008 16:10

Dan-O wrote on Fri, 14 November 2008 21:03

So there's the review you didn't ask for.

Looking forward to the TnC line of things.

Nice.

Don't forget the cleaning cloths:

http://www.cafepress.com/tnc_audio

What! No oven mitts and hot sauce? I sure could go for a bottle of TNC "In The Red" Habenaro 1081 sauce! Guaranteed to give you a buzz!....wait...that's not funny.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on November 15, 2008, 08:05:27 PM

CHANCE wrote on Sun, 16 November 2008 11:38

Anyone tired of waiting, there are some things you can get real quick. LOL
http://www.cafepress.com/tnc_audio

I see things are expanding already, with the Bulldog Brand.

Quote:

TNC Audio, the "People's Gear Place." where cool new audio products arrive from strange places, and magically find their way into your studio and home. And now Bulldog Brand take things a step further, with awesome upgrades using Lucas electronics and TAB-Funkenwerk transformers!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 15, 2008, 08:29:34 PM

Just getting things ready to go.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 15, 2008, 08:34:07 PM

compasspnt wrote on Sat, 15 November 2008 16:57

We have been getting TONS of emails about getting the transformers, enquiring about the .

We will answer the email questions,

NO! For the love of God, No more E-mails please!!! LOL
I just got a couple E-mails referring to Terry's post. I believe Terry was referring to answering E-mail questions sent to tnc-transformers@compasspointstudios.com

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on November 15, 2008, 08:48:34 PM

Has anyone recieved an ACM-583 FET yet?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 15, 2008, 08:53:56 PM

CHANCE wrote on Sat, 15 November :34

compasspnt wrote on Sat, 15 November :57

We have been getting TONS of emails about getting the transformers, enquiring about the .

We will answer the email questions,

Yes, indeed I was referring only to the transformer emails!

Chance's emails are his "other problem!"

But one happily shouldered.

Dan-O wrote on Sat, 15 November :48

Has anyone received an ACM-583 FET yet?

I have one from the previous GB.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on November 15, 2008, 10:12:08 PM

compasspnt wrote on Sat, 15 November :53

Dan-O wrote on Sat, 15 November :48

Has anyone received an ACM-583 FET yet?

I have one from the previous GB.

Any thoughts? I was hoping for a slight resemblance to my Soundelux U195's but with selectable patterns. Or perhaps a hint of 414. What I can gather from threads on Prodogy the ACM-6802T is a bit like the 414. I'm not sure if thats after a mod or not though.

Also, is the lollipop ribbon you had up for maracas in the "Anatomy of a session in June" thread the ACM-2?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 15, 2008, 10:59:13 PM

Dan-O wrote on Sat, 15 November :12

compasspnt wrote on Sat, 15 November :53

Dan-O wrote on Sat, 15 November :48

Has anyone received an ACM-583 FET yet?

I have one from the previous GB.

I found that the 583 to be a bright sounding mic.

ACM-2 lollipop on maracas in June?? How did I miss that topic?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 15, 2008, 11:08:46 PM

CHANCE wrote on Sat, 15 November :59

ACM-2 lollipop on maracas in June?? How did I miss that topic?

It was one month off.

http://recforums.prosoundweb.com/index.php/m/247252/6490/#ms g_247252

index.php/fa/5226/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: nob turner on November 16, 2008, 02:53:17 AM

as long as you're talking transformers for the mics... how about tranny replacements for the preamps? i'd assume this has been discussed... any possibilites there?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Junior! on November 16, 2008, 06:10:56 AM

Since the ACM-1200 appears to be nearly identical to the Apex 460, would the PCB / tranny upgrade be compatible with those mics as well?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 16, 2008, 08:07:18 AM

There certainly is the possibility of replacement trans for the mic pres.

But there is so much to do on all this (and it is still a labour of love, not of compensation) that we are just getting around to looking at the presamps.

Pretty soon we will have an excellent transformer upgrade available.

We suspect the basic 1200 transformer (the one that requires no electronics change) would work on a mic such as the 460...but let us check with an expert to be sure.

Back soon.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on November 16, 2008, 09:42:00 AM

compasspnt wrote on Sat, 15 November 2008 23:08

CHANCE wrote on Sat, 15 November :59

ACM-2 lollipop on maracas in June?? How did I miss that topic?

It was one month off.

http://recforums.prosoundweb.com/index.php/m/247252/6490/#ms g_247252

index.php/fa/5226/0/

Er um, make that May. Laughing

I'm not sure why but for some reason, most likly the title of the thread no doubt, I think of a Van Morrison song "Evening in June" when I see that thread.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Junior! on November 16, 2008, 01:12:50 PM

compasspnt wrote on Sun, 16 November 2008 07:07

We suspect the basic 1200 transformer (the one that requires no electronics change) would work on a mic such as the 460...but let us check with an expert to be sure.

Please do. That'd be great for us guys who didn't buy any 1200's... Even better if the electronics upgrades work too!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 17, 2008, 09:48:02 AM

I just invoiced around 20 orders. Check your users console.
It was good meeting with some of you that picked up your gear yesterday.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: QweziRider on November 17, 2008, 04:04:26 PM

Paid mine last night. With any luck, there might be a new preamp to record a trombonist this weekend. Very Happy

And if not.....well, there's always the borrowed Behringer board.

Getting excited to have a couple nice preamps for once in life! Thank you for all you've done to make this possible.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 17, 2008, 06:38:45 PM

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 17 November 2008 06:48

It was good meeting with some of you that picked up your gear yesterday.

Sorry. What I meant to say was "It was good meeting with ALL of you that picked up your gear yesterday"

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on November 17, 2008, 08:26:59 PM

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 17 November 2008 09:48

I just invoiced around 20 orders. Check your users console.
It was good meeting with some of you that picked up your gear yesterday.

I was one of the 20. Yes. Very Happy

Is there a Tab xformer for the ACM-4? I have two of those on this order.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 18, 2008, 04:06:48 AM

For those who have placed orders for transformers, we just heard that the first batch of transformers is almost done, and will start to ship in about three days. Not sure exactly which models though.

Also heard that questions about xfrms will start getting email answers directly tomorrow.

The pc board electronic upgrades will be coming out of the Lucas shops within a couple of weeks...more info on that soon, and some idea of costs as well.

We will check and see which (if any) of the xfmrs will work in the ACM-4.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 18, 2008, 09:05:34 AM

FWIW I have 42 orders or boxes (some orders have more than one box) that have been invoiced but not paid. Perhaps they haven't been checking their users console. When I get some time (?) I'll send individual E-mails as a reminder. Perhaps some were expecting E-mail invoices?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: organica on November 18, 2008, 09:28:19 AM

compasspnt wrote on Tue, 18 November 2008 04:06

Is there a time limit related to this T ? i'm quite interested yet was hoping to get a chance to check the gear out first . No telling when it might be .

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on November 18, 2008, 09:53:46 AM

groundhog wrote on Tue, 18 November 2008 08:28

compasspnt wrote on Tue, 18 November 2008 04:06

Is there a time limit related to this T ? i'm quite interested yet was hoping to get a chance to check the gear out first . No telling when it might be .

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on November 18, 2008, 10:06:23 AM

CHANCE wrote on Tue, 18 November 2008 06:05

Just checked my console and... YES! WooHoo!

I've paid, and now I'm bouncing around the house with a stupid grin on my face, whistling tunelessly.

I hope I'm not one of your "leftovers"... I swear I've been checking the console twice a day (although only once yesterday), and it said no till this morning.

Thanks!

EDIT:
BTW, IIRC, you had said you were having some issues with different names from payments, so I thought I'd let you know that I go by my middle name (Devin), but my first name is actually Mark, so the payment for Devin Knutson's order was submitted by one Mark Devin Knutson. I hope that doesn't screw you up too much.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: ScotcH on November 18, 2008, 10:30:40 AM

CHANCE wrote on Tue, 18 November 2008 09:05

No love for the Polish-Canadian Sad

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on November 18, 2008, 11:11:32 AM

I really wish that I had gotten 8 1200's now. Smile

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 18, 2008, 11:41:24 AM

Just got word that the first of the transformers have started shipping. There are emails going out showing to those who have emailed in, Paypal information.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Nizzle on November 18, 2008, 11:53:48 AM

Can someone who has a better understanding, clear something up for me. The 47'ish and 67'ish upgrades for the 1200 mic require a Transformer and electronic upgrade however, only the transformer is available as of yet. Is this correct? If so, is there an ETA on the electronics kits for the mic. Should I just buy the Transformer and wait for the electronics to be available? Just wanna make sure I understand where we are at with this process as I am very interested in having fun with these mics.

best,

-t

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on November 18, 2008, 02:37:54 PM

Well I picked up my gear on Sunday, it was great to meet some of you in person, Chance,

, and used it yesterday on a session. If anyone has a little server space I can use I'l post some little pieces of what we tracked. I'm very, very happy with it.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 18, 2008, 02:56:20 PM

Nizzle wrote on Tue, 18 November 2008 11:53

The 47'ish and 67'ish upgrades for the 1200 mic require a Transformer and electronic upgrade however, only the transformer is available as of yet. Is this correct? If so, is there an ETA on the electronics kits for the mic. Should I just buy the Transformer and wait for the electronics to be available? Just wanna make sure I understand where we are at with this process as I am very interested in having fun with these mics.

This is correct.

We hope to have something available within 2-3 weeks on the boards...it is a lot to do fast, and we want to do it well.

You could get the xfmrs now and pcb's later, or wait for all at once.

And then later yet, we will have the Bulldog versions made in advance.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 18, 2008, 03:02:27 PM

Berolzheimer wrote on Tue, 18 November 2008 11:37

Well I picked up my gear on Sunday, it was great to meet some of you in person, Chance,

, and used it yesterday on a session. If anyone has a little server space I can use I'l post some little pieces of what we tracked. I'm very, very happy with it.

You're very happy with what? As I recall you got a carload of different pieces of gear.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: mattrussell on November 18, 2008, 03:18:28 PM

chance, there is no way i could totally understand how much work this has been, but i can imagine it's a ton. would you mind sharing with us how much of the gear has shipped just so those of us waiting have some idea how it's going?

thanks again for all of your hard work.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on November 18, 2008, 03:26:32 PM

CHANCE wrote on Tue, 18 November 2008 12:02

Berolzheimer wrote on Tue, 18 November 2008 11:37

Well I picked up my gear on Sunday, it was great to meet some of you in person, Chance,

, and used it yesterday on a session. If anyone has a little server space I can use I'l post some little pieces of what we tracked. I'm very, very happy with it.

You're very happy with what? As I recall you got a carload of different pieces of gear.

Everything so far, I used most of it yesterday. I'll post a full list of my signal paths when I post the clips.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 18, 2008, 03:27:19 PM

Just a guess, out of 400 total orders, there are around 150 left to go.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on November 18, 2008, 03:47:27 PM

wow, that's a lot! (a lot done, that is)

Just curious - you working through the bigger orders first? That would make sense to me, moving the most gear out asap (even though that would put my lowly one-piece order at the end of the line...)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on November 18, 2008, 04:19:29 PM

compasspnt wrote on Wed, 19 November 2008 03:41

Just got word that the first of the transformers have started shipping. There are emails going out showing to those who have emailed in, Paypal information.

Yes, I received an email from Oliver saying that a Paypal request has been sent. I haven't received the actual Paypal request, but I assume that'll arrive soon. Looks like I'll have the transformers before having my 1200s!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: littlehat on November 18, 2008, 05:20:12 PM

I wrote an email about getting XFMRs and mod boards... no reply.
How does this work (anybody who's done it please clue me in)?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 18, 2008, 05:42:51 PM

Emails will be answered soon...much to do, thanks.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Tom Duffy on November 18, 2008, 09:23:37 PM

I just opened up a ACM-100. The circuit looks very much like the Oktava 012, so a good mod here would be to do the Scott Dorsey mod as described in Recording Mag.

I remember purchasing parts to do 2 Octavas when I had only one, and never got around to purchasing a second one, so I guess I'll try to mod the ACM-100 instead.

As a first step, upgrading the head end capacitor, resistors and FET are a definite task.

Tom.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 18, 2008, 10:01:42 PM

Tom Duffy wrote on Tue, 18 November 2008 18:23

Hey Tom welcome to PSW
Keep us posted on this mod. The only thing I did on the 100 (forget ACM, that sounds cheap) was to unscrew the grills off of each side of the capsule and take a peek.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Oliver Archut on November 19, 2008, 12:16:43 AM

Hello Guys,

thanks to Terry and Chance for having me here, after the C12VR mod Terry asked me if TNC could use the circuit for the 1200, and after talking circuit, tubes and foremost x-former, we worked out a couple of x-former for more than just the 1200 mics.

Terry already posted what type is available and I will start to ship the first x-former tomorrow.

Here is what is available and shipping right now.

T14-C12 the standard Hiller type x-former used in the very early C12 and some 250/251. Ratio 12 to 1 with a 200 Ohm output and works best with either a 12AT7 (the best is still the Telefunken ECC81 or the one and only tube to use in C12 type of mics the ECC801s) of course the 6072a will work too, but the price these days is ridicules. So after working with Terry on an other tube type project I tried to get around the 6072a and found a bunch of NOS tubes that will work either as a direct replacement or with a few minor changes like pin layout. Tubes like the 12AV7 and 6060 only cost a few bucks and work as good some even better than the 6072a. The T14-C12 is either for a self build project a la C12/251 or for the upgrade electronics that will be available soon. As a hint, a 5kOhm trim pot for the cathode will make the life easier to get the sweet spot for any of the listed tube above.

The 14-1200 is an standard upgrade for the stock electronics (aside the changed ratio it is identical to the C12-T14) aside a higher resolution it also smoothen out the high end as well making the low end a bit more robust. With a change in coupling cap (any foil type will do better than the stock one) and tube the stock circuit will work even better. 6BK7B, 6BQ7A, 6DT8{in my opinion the best, love the GE}, 6BS8 need to change the pin layout, open connection pin 4 and 5, move pin 9 to pin 5 and ground pin 9 via a 100pF cap. Tubes like the 12AV7 and 6060, are an direct replacement and get the stock electronic to an entire different level. I think I bought mine for around $1.50 each.

The T47/49/67 are designed for the upgraded electronics, those x-former are only Neumann inspired and in order to keep the price low are made with standard available lamination (other than the BV8/11/12 were the lamination is made here in Gaylord/KS) and wound on fully automated winding equipment. In conjunction with the upgrade electronics they really get the china made capsule singing, but also good for any kind of self build project that is based upon one of the classic Neumann's.
After talking with The Terry and seeing what is possible from a technical point of view there are several tubes that will work. Currently the T47 is ready for shipping, T49/67 will follow with tube upgrade info within a week. Here are the tube that will work for the 47 mod.

EF80/6BX6/Z719, EF184/6EJ7, 6BW7, 6EL7, EF860, still checking other ones.

For the ribbon mics I am currently waiting for the lamination, they should be ready to ship within two weeks.

Please order VIA tnc-transformers@compasspointstudios.com , all orders are forwarded to AMI and shipped here from Gaylord/KS, a handling fee of $5 is added to any whole (1 to xx x-formers) order, plus the actual shipping fee. Continental US UPS only, outside the continental US USPS airmail only. Payment Credit Card (preferred) e-mail phone number if you do not want to mail the CC number or PayPal, check or MO are possible too, do not send cash and no personal pic up!

I will try answer all question as fast as possible.

Best regards,

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on November 19, 2008, 12:53:49 AM

150 left to go. Am I going to be #2 or #150?
I wish I wish I wish...

Argh. Must ... remember...to....breathe....!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on November 19, 2008, 01:12:49 AM

Man...

I make great cables. I can solder a patchbay. But I don't know jack OR shit about what it takes to mod these mics! Am I screwed? I'm gonna need explicit instructions, because I can tell by Se

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: NelsonL on November 19, 2008, 01:44:16 AM

J-Texas wrote on Tue, 18 November 2008 22:12

Man...

I make great cables. I can solder a patchbay. But I don't know jack OR shit about what it takes to mod these mics! Am I screwed? I'm gonna need explicit instructions, because I can tell by Se

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on November 19, 2008, 02:00:56 AM

I can't even imagine how much work it must have been for you to organize and execute all this Chance. I hope you take a much deserved vacation someplace nice after it's all over.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 19, 2008, 02:31:22 AM

I am pretty sure the boards for electronics replacement are going to come all made up with all components mounted on them already. The work required, if one does one's own mods, will be to mount it all in there. But I will check to verify this.

Changing the trans is relatively easy, the pcb will be a bit more.

The tubes, of course are in sockets.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: NelsonL on November 19, 2008, 03:08:04 AM

Oh wow, that would be really convenient.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on November 19, 2008, 07:03:46 AM

Tom Duffy wrote on Tue, 18 November 2008 21:23

You could possibly do Royer's mini-mojave mod.

http://www.crodog.org/tubemic2/tube2.htm

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Junior! on November 19, 2008, 07:38:27 AM

compasspnt wrote on Wed, 19 November 2008 01:31

Thanks, Terry - that sounds great!

Any word yet on whether the PCB upgrades will work with other "1200-style" mics (Apex 460, Nady TCM1150, Carvin CM100, etc)? Also, any more info on 6802T upgrades?

Thanks in advance... (fingers crossed) Cool

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on November 19, 2008, 08:07:02 AM

Les Ismore wrote on Wed, 19 November 2008 01:00

I can't even imagine how much work it must have been for you to organize and execute all this Chance. I hope you take a much deserved vacation someplace nice after it's all over.

I hear the Bahamas is quite nice this time of year.
Thanks again for everything Chance and everyone else involved.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Oliver Archut on November 19, 2008, 09:11:54 AM

I make great cables. I can solder a patchbay. But I don't know jack OR shit about what it takes to mod these mics! Am I screwed? I'm gonna need explicit instructions, because I can tell by Se

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on November 19, 2008, 09:39:43 AM

Oliver Archut wrote on Wed, 19 November 2008 00:16

Hello Guys,

thanks to Terry and Chance for having me here, after the C12VR mod Terry asked me if I TNC could use the circuit for the 1200 and after talking circuit, tubes and foremost x-former, we worked out a couple of x-former for more than just the 1200 mics.

Terry already posted what type is available and I will start to ship the first x-former tomorrow.

Here is what is available and shipping right now.

T14-C12 the standard Hiller type x-former used in the very early C12 and some 250/251. Ratio 12 to 1 with a 200 Ohm output and works best with either a 12AT7 (the best is still the Telefunken ECC81 or the one and only tube to use in C12 type of mics the ECC801s) of course the 6072a will work too, but the price these days is ridicules. So after working with Terry on an other tube type project I tried to get around the 6072a and found a bunch of NOS tubes that will work either as a direct replacement or with a few minor changes like pin layout. Tubes like the 12AV7 and 6060 only cost a few bucks and work as good some even better than the 6072a. The T14-C12 is either for a self build project a la C12/251 or for the upgrade electronics that will be available soon. As a hint, a 5kOhm trim pot for the cathode will make the life easier to get the sweet spot for any of the listed tube above.

The 14-1200 is an standard upgrade for the stock electronics (aside the changed ratio it is identical to the C12-T14) aside a higher resolution it also smoothen out the high end as well making the low end a bit more robust. With a change in coupling cap (any foil type will do better than the stock one) and tube the stock circuit will work even better. 6BK7B, 6BQ7A, 6DT8{in my opinion the best, love the GE}, 6BS8 need to change the pin layout, open connection pin 4 and 5, move pin 9 to pin 5 and ground pin 9 via a 100pF cap. Tubes like the 12AV7 and 6060, are an direct replacement and get the stock electronic to an entire different level. I think I bought mine for around $1.50 each.

The T47/49/67 are designed for the upgraded electronics, those x-former are only Neumann inspired and in order to keep the price low are made with standard available lamination (other than the BV8/11/12 were the lamination is made here in Gaylord/KS) and wound on fully automated winding equipment. In conjunction with the upgrade electronics they really get the china made capsule singing, but also good for any kind of self build project that is based upon one of the classic Neumann's.
After talking with The Terry and seeing what is possible from a technical point of view there are several tubes that will work. Currently the T47 is ready for shipping, T49/67 will follow with tube upgrade info within a week. Here are the tube that will work for the 47 mod.

EF80/6BX6/Z719, EF184/6EJ7, 6BW7, 6EL7, EF860, still checking other ones.

For the ribbon mics I am currently waiting for the lamination, they should be ready to ship within two weeks.

Please order VIA tnc-transformers@compasspointstudios.com , all orders are forwarded to AMI and shipped here from Gaylord/KS, a handling fee of $5 is added to any whole (1 to xx x-formers) order, plus the actual shipping fee. Continental US UPS only, outside the continental US USPS airmail only. Payment Credit Card (preferred) e-mail phone number if you do not want to mail the CC number or PayPal, check or MO are possible too, do not send cash and no personal pic up!

I will try answer all question as fast as possible.

Best regards,

Oliver

Great info! So much appreciated, thank you. When you get moment could you give a run down of the tranny's for the ribbons as you did here?

I'd also love to see something for the ACM-900 in the way of mods in the future. Even though I've yet hear them it seems a good candidate.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 19, 2008, 10:23:00 AM

We have a 900 heading towards Oliver right now, along with a couple of the other models, so that TAB-F can start designing the custom transformers!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on November 19, 2008, 11:14:04 AM

Terry,

I was just wondering how critical the timing of an order is to get in on the 1200 x-former mods and replacement boards. ie; do I need to order now or can I wait a couple weeks?

I would like to order the kits and relevant parts for a couple 1200's as well as the forthcoming 310's and 900's but would prefer to bundle it all together in a single order if possible...

I also wish I had ordered a couple more 1200's so I could go for a stereo pair of each of the options. Hindsight..

You all are making this way too easy. Thanks!

-jonathan

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on November 19, 2008, 11:36:42 AM

compasspnt wrote on Wed, 19 November 2008 10:23

We have a 900 heading towards Oliver right now, along with a couple of the other models, so that TAB-F can start designing the custom transformers!

Sweet.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on November 19, 2008, 01:55:05 PM

I've put up a couple little samples of what we recorded on Monday. Not having a website at the moment I created a yahoo email account & sent them there. go to "mail.yahoo.com", log in as "tnc.test", password "chineve", and you'll see an email with the 2 attachments, "Chandrika Megh example 1-IDR16.wav" & "Chandrika Megh example 2-IDR16.wav".

It's raw tracks of course, just the initial tracks, & no eq or compression or verb. It's a piece by Paul Livingstone with Dave Lewis on drums & Peter Jacobsen on 'cello. The drums were in a wood room about 14' by 35' with lots of irregular surfaces (stuff piled up all over the place including sitars & sarods & guitars hung on the walls), the cello was in the bathroom. Here's the signal path:

Kick       sm53 - acmp 81 (no eq) - Digi002 line in

snare      Oktava sdc - acmp 81 (no eq) - Digi002 line in

toms      sm58-Presonus d8 - lightpipe into 002

o'heads    acm310 - Presonus d8 - lightpipe into 002

Room mics   acm900 - acmp 73 (no eq) - Digi002 line in

'Cello      acm1200 - Presonus d8 - lightpipe into 002

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on November 19, 2008, 06:34:04 PM

My wife gets something from FedEx every week for work (documents), so I didn't think anything of it when I saw the guy drive up. I had been using the User Console and it's said "no" on being shipped. I went out today, because I forgot that they came.

There was a big huge box sitting there!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: QweziRider on November 20, 2008, 12:51:27 AM

Don't get my hope up like that!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 20, 2008, 03:19:42 AM

0dbfs wrote on Wed, 19 November 2008 11:14

Terry,

I was just wondering how critical the timing of an order is to get in on the 1200 x-former mods and replacement boards. ie; do I need to order now or can I wait a couple weeks?

I would like to order the kits and relevant parts for a couple 1200's as well as the forthcoming 310's and 900's but would prefer to bundle it all together in a single order if possible...

I also wish I had ordered a couple more 1200's so I could go for a stereo pair of each of the options. Hindsight..

You all are making this way too easy. Thanks!

-jonathan

Not critical.

The transformers, and a bit later the pc boards, will "always" be available.

At least for a while.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on November 20, 2008, 11:31:19 AM

QweziRider wrote on Wed, 19 November 2008 23:51

Don't get my hope up like that!

You down to your last one?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TB-AV on November 20, 2008, 12:13:36 PM

Thanks Chance!

Another safe arrival.

Tom

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 20, 2008, 12:33:16 PM

TB-AV wrote on Thu, 20 November 2008 09:13

Thanks Chance!

Another safe arrival.

Tom

Another?? You got more than one?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TB-AV on November 20, 2008, 01:00:45 PM

No, I meant in the grand scheme and reflecting upon past group buys.

1 box only.

Tom

EDIT: I think I might have another example for the tech department.

One of the 73's has a phantom power problem.

The symptoms are as follows:

Press switch in

led does not light
power led dims ( perhaps by 1/2 intensity )
EQ led, if previously lit, goes off.
clip led under mid-eq flashes once.

If anyone has any thoughts on this they will be appreciated. It's no emergency by any stretch.

EDIT2:

There is also one other thing I noticed in both 73's. When the input dial is clicked from 8 O'clock to 9 O'clock it pegs the meter and can light all clip leds. It's the area of the switch between those two setting.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zunrize on November 20, 2008, 08:10:18 PM

Terry or Oliver,

Olivers mention regarding the 1200/C12 mod caught my eye...

"The T14-C12 is either for a self build project a la C12/251 or for the upgrade electronics that will be available soon. As a hint, a 5kOhm trim pot for the cathode will make life easier to get the sweet spot for any of the listed tubes above"

Is the trim pot already there stock, or will it be added to the boards you're building? Or is this just a recommendation from Oliver to fine tune it for the sweet spot?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 20, 2008, 08:52:19 PM

zunrize wrote on Thu, 20 November 2008 20:10

Terry or Oliver,

Olivers mention regarding the 1200/C12 mod caught my eye...

"The T14-C12 is either for a self build project a la C12/251 or for the upgrade electronics that will be available soon. As a hint, a 5kOhm trim pot for the cathode will make life easier to get the sweet spot for any of the listed tubes above"

Is the trim pot already there stock, or will it be added to the boards you're building? Or is this just a recommendation from Oliver to fine tune it for the sweet spot?

In all likelihood such a pot will not be on the circuit board. Oliver has mentioned this I think as a temporary pot during setup to determine the value of resistor you will need.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 21, 2008, 08:31:58 AM

I was just thinking that if there was only a way that shipping could have been included in the original purchase price, EVERYTHING would have been shipped to you all a long time ago. I am racking my brain how could we have predetermine the sizes and weight of each package we ship to everyone. Everyone's order is different. The problems I for-see in doing this is rising fuel costs etc. The people who are doing the packing are very efficient and are always waiting on me for invoicing and payment release. Anyone with logistic experience have any thoughts on this? We would welcome any ideas to make things function more efficiently.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rodabod on November 21, 2008, 09:30:07 AM

TB-AV wrote on Thu, 20 November 2008 18:00

One of the 73's has a phantom power problem.

The symptoms are as follows:

Press switch in

led does not light
power led dims ( perhaps by 1/2 intensity )
EQ led, if previously lit, goes off.
clip led under mid-eq flashes once.

If anyone has any thoughts on this they will be appreciated. It's no emergency by any stretch.

EDIT2:

There is also one other thing I noticed in both 73's. When the input dial is clicked from 8 O'clock to 9 O'clock it pegs the meter and can light all clip leds. It's the area of the switch between those two setting.

For the phantom power issue, can you describe what happens audio-wise? Silence? Lack of phantom power? It sounds like the PSU is being loaded-down when you are applying it - possibly a short somewhere.

I'm guessing the pop and meter pegging at a certain switch point on all of the preamps is due to switching in the secondary gain stage which is used at higher gains in the preamp design. Perhaps the switching hasn't been implemented correctly, or the switch isn't quite the correct type. I'll take a look at the schematic when I get a chance and compare.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 21, 2008, 10:04:26 AM

I'm sure you checked the 115/220 voltage

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: garret on November 21, 2008, 10:14:13 AM

CHANCE wrote on Fri, 21 November 2008 07:31

I was just thinking that if there was only a way that shipping could have been included in the original purchase price, EVERYTHING would have been shipped to you all a long time ago. I am racking my brain how could we have predetermine the sizes and weight of each package we ship to everyone. Everyone's order is different. The problems I for-see in doing this is rising fuel costs etc. The people who are doing the packing are very efficient and are always waiting on me for invoicing and payment release. Anyone with logistic experience have any thoughts on this? We would welcome any ideas to make things function more efficiently.

Well one idea is that for a group buy, rounded shipping costs should suffice. Some of us will pay a little more for shipping, and others will pay less. But as long as you don't take a bath on the total, we should all be happy. (We're getting a crazy deal on the gear anyway.)

I would expect international orders would always need custom shipping payment.

But for US shipping, I would think we could come up with something like this: (these are made-up numbers!)

Mics: $10 for the first mic, and $5 for each additional. Heavy microphones with tube power supplies would count double.

Preamps: $20 per unit.

We can add a 10% margin to handle any rise in shipping rates. If when you are done, you collected too much for shipping, you could either pocket it as our gift to you, or donate it to a music-related charity.

If you or Randy could send me the order and shipping cost data, I could run the numbers and see if this is workable.

-Garret

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 21, 2008, 10:37:43 AM

We'll get back to you on that
How about COD?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 21, 2008, 12:45:16 PM

Speaking of "international, We HAVE to come up with a better way of doing this in the future. It would be great if the manufacturers could send all UK orders as one shipment to the UK. and all AUS orders as one shipment to Austrailia. The manufacturer WILL do this, but full pymt must come from TnC. The duty and local shipping is paid on the receivers end. We have a couple of months to try and find a solution. The new gear will no doubt be of interest to everyone, but I get light headed thinking about the overseas shipping. On top of that, there will be no double duty. Right now you all are paying duty to the USA then duty to the UK etc. There's a lot of knowledge here, and I'm sure we could come up with a solution and you guys will save a TON of money. You would save double shipping, double duty, and most of all TIME!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TB-AV on November 21, 2008, 12:47:56 PM

"For the phantom power issue, can you describe what happens audio-wise? Silence? Lack of phantom power? It sounds like the PSU is being loaded-down when you are applying it - possibly a short somewhere.

I'm guessing the pop and meter pegging at a certain switch point on all of the preamps is due to switching in the secondary gain stage which is used at higher gains in the preamp design. Perhaps the switching hasn't been implemented correctly, or the switch isn't quite the correct type. I'll take a look at the schematic when I get a chance and compare."

=====

=== Just checked. Yes, Audio is passing and I can't hear any difference. The EQ stays as well and can be switched in and out even though it's led is off when the phantom is engaged.

I thought it seemed like a short as well and will pop the lid later to see if there is anything obvious.

More info on the switch: It is definitely that -in between- position between 8 and 9 O'clock. That's where it happens. Not on a detent. Also this only happens when set to MIC. The leds pulse rapidly. It does not happen set to Line.

@Chance - yes, they arrived set correctly to 115. That's the first thing I check. Then operate all switches and dials. Then Power and operate switches and dials. Then input.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 21, 2008, 12:50:35 PM

Really sounds like the noise between 8 and 9 o'clock in Mic is the extra gain stage coming in.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TB-AV on November 21, 2008, 01:52:32 PM

Is there a schematic for the 73 posted anywhere?

I don't see any problem on the surface of the board or connectors. The 48V switch is easily removed but with the led inside I can't figure which leads are which.

Does anyone know if the switches can be taken apart. It seems like they should be because they have different color leds but I don't see any means to do so.

All I can tell at this time is that.

Switch K2 / Connector IC28

switch out = 2 outer pins of connector shorted
switch in = 2 inner pins of connector shorted

EDIT: Some voltage readings with the 48V Switch removed and measured at the cable end that normally connects to it.

11.8 = 4
51.2 = 3
17.4 = 2
-8.8 = 1

I don't know about pins 1 and 2, the circuit is too complicated for me at those points, but pins 4 and 3 look good based on the schematic on page 87 of this thread. Looks like the same circuit.

I'm still trying to figure out pin numbers on the switch.

EDIT2: The led in the switch is good, I can light that up with my meter. It switches properly as well.

Can anyone tell if those pins 1 and 2 numbers look anywhere near reasonable? I'm now thinking pin 1 looks off by several volts and pin 2 I have no clue.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Oliver Archut on November 21, 2008, 02:18:22 PM

Hello Guys,

as Terry said, the 5k Ohm is just a help to get the sweet spot for the different tubes, even the fact is that a tube is self biasing it does not mean that that is the best working point. Also with using the different types of tubes that I mentioned, some of them need to be tweaked just a little bit to find the sweet spot.

The first batch of x-former has been send, I will get a datasheet up for the respective x-former in the next few days.

Best regards,

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cnixon on November 21, 2008, 03:02:04 PM

garret wrote on Fri, 21 November 2008 09:14

CHANCE wrote on Fri, 21 November 2008 07:31

I was just thinking that if there was only a way that shipping could have been included in the original purchase price, EVERYTHING would have been shipped to you all a long time ago. I am racking my brain how could we have predetermine the sizes and weight of each package we ship to everyone. Everyone's order is different. The problems I for-see in doing this is rising fuel costs etc. The people who are doing the packing are very efficient and are always waiting on me for invoicing and payment release. Anyone with logistic experience have any thoughts on this? We would welcome any ideas to make things function more efficiently.

Well one idea is that for a group buy, rounded shipping costs should suffice. Some of us will pay a little more for shipping, and others will pay less. But as long as you don't take a bath on the total, we should all be happy. (We're getting a crazy deal on the gear anyway.)

I would expect international orders would always need custom shipping payment.

But for US shipping, I would think we could come up with something like this: (these are made-up numbers!)

Mics: $10 for the first mic, and $5 for each additional. Heavy microphones with tube power supplies would count double.

Preamps: $20 per unit.

We can add a 10% margin to handle any rise in shipping rates. If when you are done, you collected too much for shipping, you could either pocket it as our gift to you, or donate it to a music-related charity.

If you or Randy could send me the order and shipping cost data, I could run the numbers and see if this is workable.

-Garret

This seems to be a pretty good idea. Using his numbers to pre-determine my shipping charges, which was 2 pre's and 2 mics, a 1200 and 200, the charge would be $55.00 up front for me. The actual Fedex charge for me was $55 and change. Not bad, definitely something to look into. Even if you estimate on the high side, I do not think anyone would mind knowing that they would getting their gear faster.

Charlie

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: thinman on November 21, 2008, 06:47:11 PM

cnixon wrote on Fri, 21 November 2008 14:02

garret wrote on Fri, 21 November 2008 09:14

CHANCE wrote on Fri, 21 November 2008 07:31

I was just thinking that if there was only a way that shipping could have been included in the original purchase price, EVERYTHING would have been shipped to you all a long time ago. I am racking my brain how could we have predetermine the sizes and weight of each package we ship to everyone. Everyone's order is different. The problems I for-see in doing this is rising fuel costs etc. The people who are doing the packing are very efficient and are always waiting on me for invoicing and payment release. Anyone with logistic experience have any thoughts on this? We would welcome any ideas to make things function more efficiently.

.... But for US shipping, I would think we could come up with something like this: (these are made-up numbers!)

Mics: $10 for the first mic, and $5 for each additional. Heavy microphones with tube power supplies would count double.

Preamps: $20 per unit.

We can add a 10% margin to handle any rise in shipping rates. If when you are done, you collected too much for shipping, you could either pocket it as our gift to you, or donate it to a music-related charity.

If you or Randy could send me the order and shipping cost data, I could run the numbers and see if this is workable.

-Garret

This seems to be a pretty good idea. Using his numbers to pre-determine my shipping charges, which was 2 pre's and 2 mics, a 1200 and 200, the charge would be $55.00 up front for me. The actual Fedex charge for me was $55 and change. Not bad, definitely something to look into. Even if you estimate on the high side, I do not think anyone would mind knowing that they would getting their gear faster.

Charlie

Agree, great idea. Would be $65 for me; 1 pre, 2 tube mics, and 1 small ribbon. Chance, any chance of implementing it for the remainder of this group buy, and if so, would that speed things up for the 150 or so remaining orders?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 21, 2008, 06:49:59 PM

Implement what? You all already paid for your gear.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: thinman on November 21, 2008, 09:23:30 PM

CHANCE wrote on Fri, 21 November 2008 17:49

Implement what? You all already paid for your gear.

What I meant was if there were established shipping costs for each item, then anyone still waiting for an invoice could go ahead and pay based on those figures. Would that speed up the process from here on out for you? Sorry, just a question.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on November 21, 2008, 10:45:39 PM

TB-AV wrote on Fri, 21 November 2008 13:52

Is there a schematic for the 73 posted anywhere?
I don't see any problem on the surface of the board or connectors. The 48V switch is easily removed but with the led inside I can't figure which leads are which.

Does anyone know if the switches can be taken apart. It seems like they should be because they have different color leds but I don't see any means to do so.

All I can tell at this time is that.

Switch K2 / Connector IC28

switch out = 2 outer pins of connector shorted
switch in = 2 inner pins of connector shorted

EDIT: Some voltage readings with the 48V Switch removed and measured at the cable end that normally connects to it.

11.8 = 4
51.2 = 3
17.4 = 2
-8.8 = 1

I don't know about pins 1 and 2, the circuit is too complicated for me at those points, but pins 4 and 3 look good based on the schematic on page 87 of this thread. Looks like the same circuit.

I'm still trying to figure out pin numbers on the switch.

EDIT2: The led in the switch is good, I can light that up with my meter. It switches properly as well.

Can anyone tell if those pins 1 and 2 numbers look anywhere near reasonable? I'm now thinking pin 1 looks off by several volts and pin 2 I have no clue.

Here is the phantom power switch as drawn in the schematic...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on November 21, 2008, 10:47:15 PM

More detail....

When the Phantom Power switch is disengaged pins 7 and 8 of switch K2 short out the LED in the 48v switch.

The 48V LED is in series with the power LED so it seems normal that the intensity of the power LED will drop when the phantom power is engaged.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Jeff Chitouras on November 22, 2008, 12:39:43 AM

Chance,

for those of us with either a UPS or FedEx account would it be helpful/possible to have our orders shipped that way? ...

...OK I admit it, I am trying to get my loot as soon as possible.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 22, 2008, 02:32:09 AM

Jeff Chitouras wrote on Sat, 22 November 2008 00:39

OK I admit it, I am trying to get my loot as soon as possible.

You Dog!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Hallams on November 22, 2008, 09:38:40 AM

compasspnt wrote on Sat, 22 November 2008 18:32

Jeff Chitouras wrote on Sat, 22 November 2008 00:39

OK I admit it, I am trying to get my loot as soon as possible.

You Dog!

Give the Dog a Bone......

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TB-AV on November 22, 2008, 10:19:34 AM

@Chuck Z

Chuck, if that diode in installed reversed, wouldn't that give me the issues I am seeing.

On the back of the switch are the four pads that hold the connector. One is square which I understand denotes pad1. This correlates to my voltage readings as well.

In the schematic pad1 is on the cathode side and pad4 on the anode side. Yet, I have to place my +(red) lead on pad1 and -(black) on pad4 in order to get the led to light.

If that's reversed, wouldn't it pass a little reverse current that the power led would use up and the EQ led that follows would go out from lack of juice?

I haven't pulled the lid off the other one to see if it's the same. But it looks like the diode is reversed to me.

====
EDIT: Oh well false alarm. I was reading the pins backwards.

I measured the voltages on the good unit. Pin 2 is way off.

I get 2.5vdc on the good unit and 17.5 on the bad one. All others are within about a volt.

So is this pointing to R3 R4 R5 and C6? Because, in circuit, R3 R4 R5 all check identical.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: ShakesTheClown on November 22, 2008, 01:18:53 PM

Woohoo! My pres just showed up!

Ok, now that the wait is over, how long until I can anticipate being able to buy more?!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on November 22, 2008, 03:08:07 PM

ShakesTheClown wrote on Sat, 22 November 2008 10:18

Woohoo! My pres just showed up!

Ok, now that the wait is over, how long until I can anticipate being able to buy more?!

On Saturday, or last night? Should I wait around the house today?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: escobar on November 22, 2008, 05:23:08 PM

I just posted an audio sample of my new 81s over at gearslutz. Check out it:

http://www.gearslutz.com/board/low-end-theory/187097-acmp-73 -neve-73-clone-post3675527.html#post3675527

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on November 22, 2008, 05:57:29 PM

I couldn't be happier with the ACM 70's. I plugged them up last night at the house with the 73's and man... especially for the money!! They obviously needed some extra juice and some heavy high end boost, but sounded great. Did a simple voice test and an acoustic guitar at different distances as well as finger v. pick. It will be very usable! Can't wait to try it on more things.

Most humbly...

Thank you Chance for all of your heart in this.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on November 22, 2008, 07:15:13 PM

Those diodes are simply LED indicators for visual effect and will not affect the 48v (phantom) supply or the 24v (audio) supply. The LEDs are running off of the 12v indicator supply.

The important question is:

When you measure between pin 1 and pin 2 (and also between pin 1 and pin 3) of the MIC input, does your DC voltmeter indicate 48v when the phantom is engaged?

TB-AV wrote on Sat, 22 November 2008 10:19

@Chuck Z

Chuck, if that diode in installed reversed, wouldn't that give me the issues I am seeing.

On the back of the switch are the four pads that hold the connector. One is square which I understand denotes pad1. This correlates to my voltage readings as well.

In the schematic pad1 is on the cathode side and pad4 on the anode side. Yet, I have to place my +(red) lead on pad1 and -(black) on pad4 in order to get the led to light.

If that's reversed, wouldn't it pass a little reverse current that the power led would use up and the EQ led that follows would go out from lack of juice?

I haven't pulled the lid off the other one to see if it's the same. But it looks like the diode is reversed to me.

====
EDIT: Oh well false alarm. I was reading the pins backwards.

I measured the voltages on the good unit. Pin 2 is way off.

I get 2.5vdc on the good unit and 17.5 on the bad one. All others are within about a volt.

So is this pointing to R3 R4 R5 and C6? Because, in circuit, R3 R4 R5 all check identical.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TB-AV on November 22, 2008, 08:43:46 PM

@Chuck,

Yes, I'm seeing about 51v. Also I disconnected everything from that board except that voltage jumper block and the problem is exactly the same.

Also all the voltages coming from that jumper block look good.

I rotated the board out and have looked at both sides of board with magnifier and don't see any sort of short or other unusual.

So far the only thing I can find different between this one and the good one is that voltage on pin 2 of that jumper to the 48v switch. A 15v difference.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: drBill on November 22, 2008, 10:55:05 PM

This thread needs more pics!!!

OK. I figured out how to fit all the ACMP's into a rack even though they are oversize by a TINY amount.

Custom drilled wood rack rails. Voila! My new improved rhythm section tracking rig!

Choose your prefered spacing and drill away.

Pretty lights. Too many in fact. Something fishy going on in one of the ACMP73's (note the bright LED. Comes on when the meter is switched down) I've got the 81 buzz as well....

Sounds good though and that's what counts!

Can't wait to give it a solid run thru......

THANKS CHANCE & TERRY!!!!!!!

bp

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on November 23, 2008, 08:55:12 AM

You have a great big rack!
My rack is not quite as big.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on November 23, 2008, 10:18:46 AM

TB-AV wrote on Sat, 22 November 2008 20:43

@Chuck,

Yes, I'm seeing about 51v. Also I disconnected everything from that board except that voltage jumper block and the problem is exactly the same.

Also all the voltages coming from that jumper block look good.

I rotated the board out and have looked at both sides of board with magnifier and don't see any sort of short or other unusual.

So far the only thing I can find different between this one and the good one is that voltage on pin 2 of that jumper to the 48v switch. A 15v difference.

What voltage do you measure at the mic input of the other one?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: tarnationsauce on November 23, 2008, 10:58:13 AM

I was able to fit 4 ACMP units in a regular rack without any issue. Screws went in just fine and I really doubt there'd be a problem racking more.

Originally I took the top off of all of my pre's to check out the guts, adjust bias, and calibrate the meters. Since I knew I was going to be modifying them in the future I put them in the rack without the top and lo and behold... they all fit.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on November 23, 2008, 11:56:09 AM

tarnationsauce wrote on Sun, 23 November 2008 10:58

I was able to fit 4 ACMP units in a regular rack without any issue. Screws went in just fine and I really doubt there'd be a problem racking more.

Originally I took the top off of all of my pre's to check out the guts, adjust bias, and calibrate the meters. Since I knew I was going to be modifying them in the future I put them in the rack without the top and lo and behold... they all fit.

Could you tell me how you made these adjustments?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Barkley McKay on November 23, 2008, 12:16:34 PM

I love how the photos get progressively more blurred. One cannot contain the excitement...

Barks

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: ShakesTheClown on November 23, 2008, 12:51:00 PM

So, I got my 73s hooked up last night and the mic amps sound great but I'm having an issue with the line input.

I'm not getting a full signal on the output. Very thin and very quiet. The input is coming from my channel insert which works with all of the other gear that I have... is there something that I'm doing wrong?

The output from the mic input was acting the same way, but after popping the hood I found a loose connection and that fixed the problem.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on November 23, 2008, 03:01:11 PM

What was loose?
Did that fix all the issues?
I should have my 73's mid week.

Thanks.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TB-AV on November 23, 2008, 03:11:43 PM

Chuck Z wrote:
"What voltage do you measure at the mic input of the other one?"

50.6 -- same thing basically.

Also I just swapped out the 48V switch. Using the switch from the good unit when I engage it, both the EQ and the power led go out.

Where as with original switch the power led would greatly dim and eq led go out.

Also if someone could tell me where the voltage on ICZ8-2 is coming from. On the good unit it's 2.5 and on bad it 17.5 but I can't figure where it comes from.

The 48 and +/-12's are clear but I don't understand how to find the source of that pin 2 voltage so I could go back down stream and hunt for a good voltage.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: ShakesTheClown on November 23, 2008, 05:08:41 PM

There was a connector on what I believe is the output card (the far right behind the output knob) that was disconnected that was causing the low output from the mic input. reconnecting that fixed the problem with the mic amp but I still have a very weak signal from the line inputs.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 23, 2008, 06:28:32 PM

I invoiced a stack of orders on Friday night. It's now Sunday night and not one response. I wanted to give these to the shipper in the morning so they could ship and make room for more packing.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on November 23, 2008, 08:14:41 PM

Dang! Get off the stick, y'all! Quit holding up the line!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Punchmo on November 23, 2008, 09:32:00 PM

ShakesTheClown wrote on Sun, 23 November 2008 17:51

So, I got my 73s hooked up last night and the mic amps sound great but I'm having an issue with the line input.

I'm not getting a full signal on the output. Very thin and very quiet. The input is coming from my channel insert which works with all of the other gear that I have... is there something that I'm doing wrong?

I know nuthin', but could this issue be because pin 3 is wired hot instead of pin 2? The reason I ask is that many years ago I purchased a Drawmer DS201 that was wired this way and the signal was weak and thin. I made a set of cables that corrected the problem and all was fine. IIRC, years ago the British used to wire balanced connections pin 3 hot.

Anyone know if this is the case with the TNC 73's or, othewise wish to comment?

Many Thanks,

Edit: Oh, I wanted to say I have 4 73's and 7 mics on the way
Steve Pheil

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on November 23, 2008, 09:49:54 PM

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 24 November 2008 10:28

I invoiced a stack of orders on Friday night. It's now Sunday night and not one response. I wanted to give these to the shipper in the morning so they could ship and make room for more packing.

That seems very odd that not one person has paid. Makes me wonder if the info isn't appearing on the user console, when there are so many of us checking and ready to pay?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Hallams on November 23, 2008, 09:58:49 PM

Greg Dixon wrote on Mon, 24 November 2008 13:49

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 24 November 2008 10:28

I invoiced a stack of orders on Friday night. It's now Sunday night and not one response. I wanted to give these to the shipper in the morning so they could ship and make room for more packing.

That seems very odd that not one person has paid. Makes me wonder if the info isn't appearing on the user console, when there are so many of us checking and ready to pay?

I have been wondering for a while if the user console is working because my invoice has been up and payed for over four weeks yet still no indication of shipment. Chance PM'ed me that the shipping co had my shipment for a week but returned it as it was too big in one box for international shipment. So i presume it has been re packed and shipped but there is still no indication of shipment on the user console.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: thinman on November 24, 2008, 12:22:10 AM

I have checked the console at least twice daily without fail for several weeks now. Nothing late Friday night, nothing early or late on Saturday. But I checked late this afternoon (Sunday) and I had a green YES, at last. So either the console was slow to indicate the change Chance made Friday night or perhaps that browser page was reading from the cache and needed to be refreshed on each viewing. That doesn't seem likely though since I have to sign in to the console each time, and I didn't refresh before I saw the green YES tonight.

Needless to say, I'm very happy about going green, and I've paid, so mail mine tomorrow, please, kind sir!

A colossal thank you for all of this, Chance.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Barkley McKay on November 24, 2008, 03:18:19 AM

Definitely nothing here and I have been checking the user console twice daily too.
I'm guessing that mine will be later anyway though as its a large, international order to the UK. ie PITA

barks

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: recordinghacks on November 24, 2008, 03:30:23 AM

CHANCE wrote on Sun, 23 November 2008 15:28

I invoiced a stack of orders on Friday night. It's now Sunday night and not one response.

Count me among those checking the console daily with no sign of an invoice.

It's too bad there's no way to give the shipping staff a prioritized packing list, with the names of people active on the boards at the top. That approach would appear to expedite the shipping process, because you'd get payment within ~12 hours of entering invoice data.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: KarlH on November 24, 2008, 06:25:04 AM

EeeeHaaa! I go away for the weekend and come back to a green "yes". Thanks to Chance for everything!

karl

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: tarnationsauce on November 24, 2008, 08:02:44 AM

Dan-O wrote on Sun, 23 November 2008 16:56

tarnationsauce wrote on Sun, 23 November 2008 10:58

I was able to fit 4 ACMP units in a regular rack without any issue. Screws went in just fine and I really doubt there'd be a problem racking more.

Originally I took the top off of all of my pre's to check out the guts, adjust bias, and calibrate the meters. Since I knew I was going to be modifying them in the future I put them in the rack without the top and lo and behold... they all fit.

Could you tell me how you made these adjustments?

Nothing to adjust. I just took the top panel off.
2 screws on each side, back, and top. Then remove the sheet-metal cover.
It may or may not help. I have never tried racking the preamps with them on.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on November 24, 2008, 08:51:36 AM

tarnationsauce wrote on Mon, 24 November 2008 08:02

Dan-O wrote on Sun, 23 November 2008 16:56

tarnationsauce wrote on Sun, 23 November 2008 10:58

I was able to fit 4 ACMP units in a regular rack without any issue. Screws went in just fine and I really doubt there'd be a problem racking more.

Originally I took the top off of all of my pre's to check out the guts, adjust bias, and calibrate the meters. Since I knew I was going to be modifying them in the future I put them in the rack without the top and lo and behold... they all fit.

Could you tell me how you made these adjustments?

Nothing to adjust. I just took the top panel off.
2 screws on each side, back, and top. Then remove the sheet-metal cover.
It may or may not help. I have never tried racking the preamps with them on.

Thanks. I was actually referring more to the bias adjustment you mentioned.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on November 24, 2008, 08:54:27 AM

I check the user console at least twice a day. As of this morning still nothing.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 24, 2008, 09:09:27 AM

Dan-O wrote on Mon, 24 November 2008 05:54

I check the user console at least twice a day. As of this morning still nothing.

Hang in there. We're going as fast as we can.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: duckhunter on November 24, 2008, 10:15:06 AM

Shipping Invoice Available:    YES
Shipping Invoice Paid:    YES
Items Shipped:    NO
Shipping Date:
Shipping Amount:    $49.94
Shipping Carrier:    FedEx
Tracking Number:

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: mattrussell on November 24, 2008, 10:29:25 AM

another here checking it at least 4 times a day. 2 friends have their stuff or have it being shipped right now. have constant sessions right now and i'm really excited to get my stuff and put it to the test.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: against88 on November 24, 2008, 10:34:07 AM

every few days i scroll down and catch a glimpse of the two green YES's for the product invoice and get a little excited. then i see the three red NO's

can anyone post what they got, what area they are in, and how much shipping was so that we can sort of guestimate how much our shipping will be? not that it matters but it might occupy my mind a little bit as i wait patiently =)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TB-AV on November 24, 2008, 10:36:01 AM

@Shakes the Clown

Back many pages ago Chuck Z noted two things that could be an issue for your line out.

One was simply that the switches and controls need to be operated and a "LOUD" signal be passed through to wear down any anti corrosive used on the parts. Page 89

The other involved a wiring polarity issue in an 81, page 95.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 24, 2008, 10:42:29 AM

against88 wrote on Mon, 24 November 2008 07:34

every few days i scroll down and catch a glimpse of the two green YES's for the product invoice and get a little excited. then i see the three red NO's

can anyone post what they got, what area they are in, and how much shipping was so that we can sort of guestimate how much our shipping will be? not that it matters but it might occupy my mind a little bit as i wait patiently =)

I'm confused. You had 2 green yes's and it changed to 3 red no's?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: garret on November 24, 2008, 10:45:12 AM

Whoo... mine is ready to ship. I paid this morning... here's hoping the package makes it here this week. Does anyone know if Fedex delivers on Thursday or Friday?

EDIT: google is my friend. No Fedex on Thursday, but they will deliver on Friday.

against88 wrote on Mon, 24 November 2008 09:34

can anyone post what they got, what area they are in, and how much shipping was so that we can sort of guestimate how much our shipping will be? not that it matters but it might occupy my mind a little bit as i wait patiently =)

My shipping was $58. That was for two pres and two ACM-1200 mics.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on November 24, 2008, 10:46:18 AM

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 24 November 2008 09:09

Dan-O wrote on Mon, 24 November 2008 05:54

I check the user console at least twice a day. As of this morning still nothing.

Hang in there. We're going as fast as we can.

It's all good Chance. I'm very appreciative.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on November 24, 2008, 01:18:36 PM

tarnationsauce wrote on Mon, 24 November 2008 05:02

Dan-O wrote on Sun, 23 November 2008 16:56

tarnationsauce wrote on Sun, 23 November 2008 10:58

I was able to fit 4 ACMP units in a regular rack without any issue. Screws went in just fine and I really doubt there'd be a problem racking more.

Originally I took the top off of all of my pre's to check out the guts, adjust bias, and calibrate the meters. Since I knew I was going to be modifying them in the future I put them in the rack without the top and lo and behold... they all fit.

Could you tell me how you made these adjustments?

Nothing to adjust. I just took the top panel off.
2 screws on each side, back, and top. Then remove the sheet-metal cover.
It may or may not help. I have never tried racking the preamps with them on.

Seems to me this might raise your noise floor, as you're losing some shielding.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cnixon on November 24, 2008, 01:59:23 PM

against88 wrote on Mon, 24 November 2008 09:34

every few days i scroll down and catch a glimpse of the two green YES's for the product invoice and get a little excited. then i see the three red NO's

can anyone post what they got, what area they are in, and how much shipping was so that we can sort of guestimate how much our shipping will be? not that it matters but it might occupy my mind a little bit as i wait patiently =)

2 pre's and 2 mics, 1 mic with power supply which is heavier, to Atlanta for me was $55.00.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: redddog on November 24, 2008, 02:11:42 PM

8 pres (6-84s, 2-74s)
2 1200s
2 acm 3s

$192 to Rochester, NY

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: ShakesTheClown on November 24, 2008, 02:37:35 PM

Quote:

@Shakes the Clown

Back many pages ago Chuck Z noted two things that could be an issue for your line out.

One was simply that the switches and controls need to be operated and a "LOUD" signal be passed through to wear down any anti corrosive used on the parts. Page 89

The other involved a wiring polarity issue in an 81, page 95.

I will check this out today.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: thinman on November 24, 2008, 03:18:00 PM

against88 wrote on Mon, 24 November 2008 09:34

every few days i scroll down and catch a glimpse of the two green YES's for the product invoice and get a little excited. then i see the three red NO's

can anyone post what they got, what area they are in, and how much shipping was so that we can sort of guestimate how much our shipping will be? not that it matters but it might occupy my mind a little bit as i wait patiently =)

1 Pre, 2 Tube mics, 1 small ribbon mic, all to Nashville, TN area. $50.06

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on November 24, 2008, 05:25:49 PM

redddog wrote on Tue, 25 November 2008 06:11

8 pres (6-84s, 2-74s)
2 1200s
2 acm 3s

$192 to Rochester, NY

Wow. 8 pres, 4 1200s, 4 310s and one ACM2 is going to be heaps to Australia then...... Still a good deal though.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: against88 on November 24, 2008, 05:38:24 PM

to clarify, i get excited when i see the 2 green YES's for the product invoice...but then i scroll down and see the shipping section which contains the seperate 3 red NO's.

sorry for confusion chance!
please ignore us and try to sleep or eat.
...or ship boxes...

and thanks for the shipping info guys. i've got 4 pres a few mics...might be looking at 100 bones.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: littlehat on November 24, 2008, 10:49:05 PM

So what happened with the transformers?
I sent an email... no response.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on November 25, 2008, 09:20:26 AM

I feel the urge to make a special editorial comment...

I feel like I'm reading gearslutz... all this obsessive blind rush to modify gear that almost nobody has even heard yet....

The quest for the magic bullet. I coined the term "Gear Hypochondria" a few years ago to describe this free floating anxiety. The nagging feeling that "something is wrong" with the gear in it's present state.

Now, I'll admit that I have modified nearly every bit of my outboard gear, but it's been very specific stuff, like adding a 'hard knee' detector to the sidechain of my dbx 165 because the 'over-easy' sucks on bass. Or redesigning the amplifier stages of my VC/L-2 to have a single ended class-A output and no global feedback in order to generate 2nd order distortion when pushed. Or adding the option of feedback/feedforward detection to my Valley Gain brains to get a more spongy response in addition to the typical Gain Brain slam. Or adding a selectable ratio to my LTD-2s simply because they are fixed at a idiotic 6:1 ratio which nobody would ever default to...

It's all done to increase the utility... it's about the journey, not the car.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: tarnationsauce on November 25, 2008, 09:33:05 AM

Dan-O wrote on Sun, 23 November 2008 16:56

tarnationsauce wrote on Sun, 23 November 2008 10:58

I was able to fit 4 ACMP units in a regular rack without any issue. Screws went in just fine and I really doubt there'd be a problem racking more.

Originally I took the top off of all of my pre's to check out the guts, adjust bias, and calibrate the meters. Since I knew I was going to be modifying them in the future I put them in the rack without the top and lo and behold... they all fit.

Could you tell me how you made these adjustments?

The bias adjustment sets the quiescent current of the main output transistor. All it does is give you a little bit more headroom provided it is at least mostly adjusted. All of my preamps except one of my 73's didn't need very much adjustment.

All you have to do is run a 1k sinewave to the input (mic or line), output 100%, bypass EQ, and adjust input until the output waveform starts to clip. For that you'll need an oscilloscope measuring the output from the XLR. Then adjust the bias pot on the output board until the clipping is symmetrical on the top and bottom of the waveform.
If you replace the output transformer or transistor the bias should be adjusted for maximum headroom.
For more reading check out the end of the assembly instructions for the N72: http://www.seventhcircleaudio.com/N72/N72R31/docs/n72_asmbly .pdf
My method is a modified version of what they do there.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on November 25, 2008, 10:21:22 AM

tarnationsauce wrote on Tue, 25 November 2008 09:33

Dan-O wrote on Sun, 23 November 2008 16:56

tarnationsauce wrote on Sun, 23 November 2008 10:58

I was able to fit 4 ACMP units in a regular rack without any issue. Screws went in just fine and I really doubt there'd be a problem racking more.

Originally I took the top off of all of my pre's to check out the guts, adjust bias, and calibrate the meters. Since I knew I was going to be modifying them in the future I put them in the rack without the top and lo and behold... they all fit.

Could you tell me how you made these adjustments?

The bias adjustment sets the quiescent voltage of the main output transistor. All it does is give you a little bit more headroom provided it is at least mostly adjusted. All of my preamps except one of my 73's didn't need very much adjustment.

All you have to do is run a 1k sinewave to the input (mic or line), output 100%, bypass EQ, and adjust input until the output waveform starts to clip. For that you'll need an oscilloscope measuring the output from the XLR. Then adjust the bias pot on the output board until the clipping is symmetrical on the top and bottom of the waveform.
If you replace the output transformer or transistor the bias should be adjusted for maximum headroom.
For more reading check out the end of the assembly instructions for the N72: http://www.seventhcircleaudio.com/N72/N72R31/docs/n72_asmbly .pdf
My method is a modified version of what they do there.

Excellent. Thanks much.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: redddog on November 25, 2008, 10:51:15 AM

Holy I-don't-know-enough-about-this-crap Batman.

What should we do if you don't have a degree in electrical engineering?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Crash on November 25, 2008, 11:03:05 AM

Hey Zmix, the gain knob on the 84 exhibits a weird issue at about the mid point where you can get the knob between detents and it will send a crazy loud tone to the output of the pre, pegs the needle, and all that. It only does it in mic mode with or without a mic attached. You seen anything weird there? If you blow through the detent it sounds more like a pop. Other than this issue, I have not seen any other oddities with the 84. Someone else mentioned this before too but I couldn't remember which of the 3 forums it might have been on.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 25, 2008, 11:18:14 AM

I might be mistaken, but I think I remember reading about anti-corrosive lube on the wiper, and working it clears it up. Been so busy, I haven't had time to experience these things.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Crash on November 25, 2008, 11:40:03 AM

I tried all that to no avail... It is not a huge issue but so far I have not been able to make it go away. I think it is weird that lube would only cause this in the one detent area, if it were a lube problem. I'll screw with it some more this afternoon hopefully.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TB-AV on November 25, 2008, 11:59:26 AM

@Crash

That is basically a known issue and if I'm not mistaken it's determined to be where a second level gain stage engages. My 73's do it also.

@Chuck & Chance

I found the problem with my 48V Phantom. first I would like to apologize for posting some bad voltage reading data. I think I must have had my meter set wrong. But there was a problem none the less.

The connector on that board 1CZ5(on the 73) but noted as 1CZ6(for the 81). At any rate it's the board mounted connector between the transformers and gain switch that connects the 48V Phantom power switch. That connector was installed backwards.

I de-soldered it, reversed it, re-soldered and everything is ok now.

I'm glad it was something simple and thanks for the time and thought you gave this. It kept me focused on the area of where the problem should be and indeed was.

Tom B.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 25, 2008, 12:05:10 PM

Were those wires color coded? I would like to document this. I only wish I had the talent and skills you guys so freely share

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TB-AV on November 25, 2008, 12:25:34 PM

Yes, the wires are coded. with x's, dashes, etc.

To be honest I remember now when I took the cover off the good unit, I noticed that cable looked different to me. It was dressed on the board differently. It did not strike me that on one I was actually looking at the coded side of the cable and on the other I was seeing basically a white cable.

Chance, I have been making a Word doc with these issues and resolutions as I see them come up. Sort of an ongoing service / repair guide. I can email you a copy if you give me a subject line title so you see it.

As to skill and talent, yes, Chuck and some of these others do indeed have it but I can assure you I am basically flying blind with my greatest skill being the knowledge of knowing which end of the soldering iron not to touch.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 25, 2008, 12:29:13 PM

LOL (the cold side)
Yeah subject ACMP ISSUES)
Thanks

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on November 25, 2008, 02:32:10 PM

Crash wrote on Tue, 25 November 2008 11:03

Hey Zmix, the gain knob on the 84 exhibits a weird issue at about the mid point where you can get the knob between detents and it will send a crazy loud tone to the output of the pre, pegs the needle, and all that. It only does it in mic mode with or without a mic attached. You seen anything weird there? If you blow through the detent it sounds more like a pop. Other than this issue, I have not seen any other oddities with the 84. Someone else mentioned this before too but I couldn't remember which of the 3 forums it might have been on.

This is a point on the switch where N

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: ShakesTheClown on November 25, 2008, 03:13:48 PM

So, it seems that my problems are of my own making.

Looks like I don't really have any problems with my 73's but there is a problem with my patchbay wiring.

If I feed the unit with a straight line level signal the line input works fine, however the inserts on my Ghost are unbalanced so I'm still experiencing this weak signal when using the 73 as an insert.

Any suggestions?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: mshilarious on November 25, 2008, 03:18:01 PM

What cabling are you using on the insert send/return to the unit?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rodabod on November 25, 2008, 03:23:50 PM

The TNC channel strips should drive unbalanced inputs fine as they are transformer-balanced.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Crash on November 25, 2008, 03:38:04 PM

That is what I was starting to think as well after giving it further thought. Thanks for the reply Zmix.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on November 25, 2008, 03:41:12 PM

ShakesTheClown wrote on Tue, 25 November 2008 15:13

So, it seems that my problems are of my own making.

Looks like I don't really have any problems with my 73's but there is a problem with my patchbay wiring.

If I feed the unit with a straight line level signal the line input works fine, however the inserts on my Ghost are unbalanced so I'm still experiencing this weak signal when using the 73 as an insert.

Any suggestions?

Make sure that the 'send' and 'return' insert patch points have pin 3 connected to ground, not left floating and it will then interface fine with the TnC.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on November 25, 2008, 04:03:02 PM

I HAVE GEAR!

Arrived this morning. One large box, very well packed. The only issue so far was one of the 73s had the input voltage set to 220 (Always check!!!), and a loose frequency selector knob in the EQ section. Small flathead took care of both in about 5 seconds.

Everything is burning in as we speak, so I haven't really listened to anything just yet, although I will say that I think I like the 1200s already.

Thanks huge bunches, Chance!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: redddog on November 25, 2008, 04:57:11 PM

So is there a way to fix this pop issue on the 84 or do we just work around it?

You guys are freakin smart.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: organica on November 25, 2008, 05:08:40 PM

have not seen a thing here ,

Devin Knutson wrote on Tue, 25 November 2008 16:03

Thanks huge bunches, Chance!

lol !

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on November 25, 2008, 05:17:15 PM

redddog wrote on Tue, 25 November 2008 16:57

So is there a way to fix this pop issue on the 84 or do we just work around it?

You guys are freakin smart.

You could eliminate one of the gain settings and add an "off" position... other than that TnC could put a warning sticker on the units!!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: redddog on November 25, 2008, 07:03:54 PM

zmix wrote on Tue, 25 November 2008 16:17

redddog wrote on Tue, 25 November 2008 16:57

So is there a way to fix this pop issue on the 84 or do we just work around it?

You guys are freakin smart.

You could eliminate one of the gain settings and add an "off" position... other than that TnC could put a warning sticker on the units!!

Is that difficult. Could we get a quick description of how to do that?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on November 25, 2008, 08:29:01 PM

redddog wrote on Tue, 25 November 2008 19:03

zmix wrote on Tue, 25 November 2008 16:17

redddog wrote on Tue, 25 November 2008 16:57

So is there a way to fix this pop issue on the 84 or do we just work around it?

You guys are freakin smart.

You could eliminate one of the gain settings and add an "off" position... other than that TnC could put a warning sticker on the units!!

Is that difficult. Could we get a quick description of how to do that?

Yes and no....

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: redddog on November 26, 2008, 10:08:11 AM

So it is difficult?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: ShakesTheClown on November 26, 2008, 02:56:15 PM

Quote:

What cabling are you using on the insert send/return to the unit?

Ok, the inserts on my ghost are unbalanced send/return in a single jack type where the ring is send tip is return and sleeve is the ground.

The way I have them wired into my 96 pt adc patchbay (which works with all my other gear but is still probably wrong) is the send (ring of the insert) to the tip (on the bay) of the top row, normalled to the tip (on the bay) of the bottom row which then goes to the return (tip on the insert). The sleeve of the insert is tied to the sleeve of the bottom row of the patchbay.

T send
R
S

T return
R
S ground

I'm very confused here, if there is someone in the Ft. Worth Tx area that would be wiling to help me work this out, that would be amazing.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 26, 2008, 02:59:30 PM

littlehat wrote on Mon, 24 November 2008 22:49

So what happened with the transformers?
I sent an email... no response.

The transformer upgrades are being dealt with one at a time.

There are so many emails, it is impossible to answer immediately.

You should start hearing things early next week.

Thanks!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 26, 2008, 03:08:22 PM

compasspnt wrote on Wed, 26 November 2008 11:59

There are so many emails, it is impossible to answer immediately.

Hmm, sounds familiar. LOL

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on November 26, 2008, 04:39:17 PM

ShakesTheClown wrote on Wed, 26 November 2008 14:56

Quote:

What cabling are you using on the insert send/return to the unit?

Ok, the inserts on my ghost are unbalanced send/return in a single jack type where the ring is send tip is return and sleeve is the ground.

The way I have them wired into my 96 pt adc patchbay (which works with all my other gear but is still probably wrong) is the send (ring of the insert) to the tip (on the bay) of the top row, normalled to the tip (on the bay) of the bottom row which then goes to the return (tip on the insert). The sleeve of the insert is tied to the sleeve of the bottom row of the patchbay.

T send
R
S

T return
R
S ground

I'm very confused here, if there is someone in the Ft. Worth Tx area that would be wiling to help me work this out, that would be amazing.

Simply clip together the "R" and "S" on both the send and receive with a clip lead and you'll suddenly have signal.....

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: ShakesTheClown on November 26, 2008, 05:36:53 PM

Now if only I knew why!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on November 26, 2008, 05:59:31 PM

ShakesTheClown wrote on Wed, 26 November 2008 17:36

Now if only I knew why!

Because the input and output transformer windings are connected to pins 2 ("Tip" ) and pin 3 ("Ring") and neither is connected to ground at pin 1 ("Sleeve").

The unbalanced send from your console insert only generates a signal between pin 2 and ground. It leaves pin 3 floating.

Connecting this to a transformer balanced piece of gear is like trying to operate a household lamp by only putting one wire in the electrical outlet.

By connecting pin 3 to pin 1 (ring to sleeve) you complete the circuit.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: ShakesTheClown on November 27, 2008, 10:40:14 AM

Is this something I should do to all my insert points or just for the TNC?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on November 27, 2008, 11:50:44 AM

ShakesTheClown wrote on Thu, 27 November 2008 10:40

Is this something I should do to all my insert points or just for the TNC?

Certainly any transformer coupled gear will require this wiring to operate correctly. Un balanced and active balanced gear shouldn't care, but some active balanced gear may not like having pin 3 of the output tied to ground

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on November 28, 2008, 04:22:04 PM

MA TINGS REACH part 2.

What I thought was ma tings was my Buddy's tings that I ordered for him but now my tings reach!

Its gonna be a wonderful weekend, the 2 box's were so big they almost did not fit in my car.

Thanks again Chance.

Title: ACMP-73
Post by: Bill_Urick on November 29, 2008, 08:24:26 AM

Something stupid led to something questionable while checking out my two 73's. I was going through all the functions of the pre's, ACM-4's in and monitoring through headphones. Everything seemed good but wasn't too crazy about the 12k boost/cut.
Then I noticed a change in level and frequency response when engaging the phase reversal.
Whipping out the Audio Control Spectrum Analyzer, I soon figured out that the phase reverse issue was due to cancellation between the sound from the phones and the "natural" sound of my voice. Duh!
Checking out the eq functions via the analyzer, all eq controls displayed as expected until the 12k was checked. It seems to reach much lower than 12k. Into the 6-8k range. Which corresponds to what I thought I was hearing. Both 73's are the same.
Is this a design flaw, a measurement error or a lack of understanding on my part?

Title: Re: ACMP-73
Post by: seedyunderbelly.com on November 29, 2008, 09:40:14 AM

nice Bill.

Title: Re: ACMP-73
Post by: matti on November 29, 2008, 09:43:08 AM

They should do this

Matti

Title: Re: ACMP-73
Post by: Bill_Urick on November 29, 2008, 09:56:54 AM

matti wrote on Sat, 29 November 2008 09:43

They should do this

Matti

Thanks, Matti.

I don't think the HF curve I saw quite matched this. Will double check. Also plan to compare against a 1073/BA205 schematic and see if everything matches.

Title: Re: ACMP-73
Post by: Devin Knutson on November 29, 2008, 11:39:29 AM

Bill_Urick wrote on Sat, 29 November 2008 05:24

Whipping out the Audio Control Spectrum Analyzer, I soon figured out that the phase reverse issue was due to cancellation between the sound from the phones and the "natural" sound of my voice. Duh!

I noticed this yesterday and was wondering about it. Makes perfect sense now, thanks.

Although, I did notice that my 6802T seems to display this behaviour by default. It's fine once I flip the phase switch. So, it appears that my 6802 is wired in reverse somewhere.

Or am I losing it?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 29, 2008, 04:05:41 PM

I don't think there is still any Official Phase Wiring Mandate.

Some things are "reversed."

Title: Re: ACMP-73
Post by: Bill_Urick on November 29, 2008, 04:28:18 PM

matti wrote on Sat, 29 November 2008 09:43

They should do this

Matti

After double checking with the RTA, the HF curves match what you provided pretty well. Thanks again.

Title: Re: ACMP-73
Post by: thinman on November 29, 2008, 06:58:07 PM

Devin Knutson wrote on Sat, 29 November 2008 10:39

So, it appears that my 6802 is wired in reverse somewhere.

Nothing to worry about. It's most likely just a phase.

.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: against88 on November 30, 2008, 12:00:47 AM

i've got a dollar that says i'm dead last receiving my stuffs.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Brian Kehew on November 30, 2008, 07:23:33 AM

After a long drive in post/mid holiday traffic, I picked mine up in person today. Chance was super nice, easy going and great to hang with. I see why he does this - for the RIGHT reasons.

Opening up the 73 model today, I am damned impressed by what you get for the money. It is simply mindblowing, the work that goes into these things. While not boutique audio stuff, this is NOT cheap gear - but very serious entry-level pro gear.

Thanks man, I had a great time!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 30, 2008, 09:24:33 AM

Thanks, Brian.

We, led by Chance of course, really are trying to give something back to the audio recording world.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: redddog on November 30, 2008, 11:08:11 AM

What I find cool is that while it might not be "boutique" in it's present state, I think the upgrades planned will make it boutique. I think that we can get these pres into "ridiculously good" if we want to.

The circuit is a replica of one of the most sought after pres in history. Upgrade the components and it's untouchable.

I'll tell you one thing. I just racked up 4 of the eight I bought and they sure do look good. They are also VERY solidly built

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: littlehat on November 30, 2008, 01:07:48 PM

against88 wrote on Sun, 30 November 2008 00:00

i've got a dollar that says i'm dead last receiving my stuffs.

Man I hope so.

(what does 88 mean to you?)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: against88 on December 01, 2008, 01:21:14 AM

nazi's used 88 to represent HH / heil hittler since H is the 8th letter of the alphabet. i do not like nazi's.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on December 01, 2008, 04:04:59 AM

Oliver Archut wrote on Wed, 19 November 2008 16:16

in order to keep the price low are made with standard available lamination

Oliver. I was wondering what difference the lamination makes? Is it a quality thing or just that it won't be the same as the originals?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on December 01, 2008, 10:28:55 AM

against88 wrote on Mon, 01 December 2008 01:21

nazi's used 88 to represent HH / heil hittler since H is the 8th letter of the alphabet. i do not like nazi's.

Elvis anyone?

Beatles??

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Oliver Archut on December 01, 2008, 11:01:06 AM

Hello Guys,

the main aspect of the x-formers were to come up with a great x-former for a reasonable price and taking off the shelf lamination is always less expensive than making them here in Kansas.

Without being chained to historic correctness the new x-formers are kicking ass for a good price and that was the goal.
There should be very soon some more information available on how the new x-former sound with the upgraded electronics, and this week the first drop in x-former should leave here for people to check out and hopefully to post some samples.

Best regards,

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: organica on December 01, 2008, 11:39:12 AM

Do you plan for these transformers to still be available six months or so down the road ? ........ or would it be best to get them right away if interested . Thank you .

zmix wrote on Mon, 01 December 2008 10:28

against88 wrote on Mon, 01 December 2008 01:21

nazi's used 88 to represent HH / heil hittler since H is the 8th letter of the alphabet. i do not like nazi's.

Elvis anyone?

Beatles??

HAHA HAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA !

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on December 01, 2008, 11:48:00 AM

groundhog wrote on Mon, 01 December 2008 08:39

Do you plan for these transformers to still be available six months or so down the road ? ........ !

I have been getting

Hopefully I'll have everyones gear shipped soon. MANY have said they will be doing the xfrmr swap once they get their mics.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on December 01, 2008, 01:10:11 PM

against88 wrote on Sat, 29 November 2008 21:00

i've got a dollar that says i'm dead last receiving my stuffs.

nah, I'm pretty sure that I'm gonna be last. Your gonna be second to last.
I bet you 2 dollars.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: QweziRider on December 01, 2008, 01:29:05 PM

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 01 December 2008 10:48

Hopefully I'll have everyones gear shipped soon.

Everything in order on a shipping bill I paid 14 days ago? not being pushy at all, just want to be sure payment was all o.k. and gone through as far as my responsibilities.

Thank you!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on December 01, 2008, 01:46:05 PM

Brian Kehew wrote on Sun, 30 November 2008 04:23

After a long drive in post/mid holiday traffic, I picked mine up in person today. Chance was super nice, easy going and great to hang with. I see why he does this - for the RIGHT reasons.

Opening up the 73 model today, I am damned impressed by what you get for the money. It is simply mindblowing, the work that goes into these things. While not boutique audio stuff, this is NOT cheap gear - but very serious entry-level pro gear.

Thanks man, I had a great time!

Hey Brian
Good meeting with you too in my humble little shop (while trying to mix with only one ear LOL) Maybe 2 weeks I'll bring that 2" tape over.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: duckhunter on December 01, 2008, 02:41:30 PM

Tracking my package like Santa Clause on Christmas Eve.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on December 01, 2008, 02:43:42 PM

dguidry wrote on Mon, 01 December 2008 11:41

Tracking my package like Santa Clause on Christmas Eve.

I hope Rudolph doesn't have those red no's in your case.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Rod Affleck on December 01, 2008, 03:08:06 PM

QweziRider wrote on Mon, 01 December 2008 14:29

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 01 December 2008 10:48

Hopefully I'll have everyones gear shipped soon.

Everything in order on a shipping bill I paid 14 days ago? not being pushy at all, just want to be sure payment was all o.k. and gone through as far as my responsibilities.

Thank you!

Yeah, I've been wondering about mine too--I made the payment six weeks ago and the console is still showing it as not being shipped--was there an issue with the payment?

Sorry to be a pest.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: MagnetoSound on December 01, 2008, 04:18:22 PM

dguidry wrote on Mon, 01 December 2008 19:41

Tracking my package like Santa Clause on Christmas Eve.

Only a lawyer would spell it that way.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on December 01, 2008, 05:38:51 PM

Man, I don't want to stir things up, and it will still be a while before all is fully available, but...

I just today got to hook up 2 of the prototype 1200's with two different electronics replacement boards, and the two corresponding transformers. These are really going to be nice! My favourite so far is the 47-inspired one with the BV8

I can't wait to get moving on the Bulldog Brand pre-modified production versions! BTW, new outside look as well.

For those looking for transformers, things are starting to move.

Thanks.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: duckhunter on December 01, 2008, 05:50:48 PM

MagnetoSound wrote on Mon, 01 December 2008 15:18

dguidry wrote on Mon, 01 December 2008 19:41

Tracking my package like Santa Clause on Christmas Eve.

Only a lawyer would spell it that way.

I had the option:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Santa_Clause

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on December 01, 2008, 06:50:00 PM

Anyone winds up with a couple of extra pres or 1200s feel free to pm me.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: littlehat on December 01, 2008, 07:15:48 PM

against88 wrote on Mon, 01 December 2008 01:21

nazi's used 88 to represent HH / heil hittler since H is the 8th letter of the alphabet. i do not like nazi's.

Well then...

I hope you get your gear sooner.

If any consolation, I have all red 'no's.

Terry/Chance/Oliver,
When can I expect an email reply concerning mod boards/XFMRs?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on December 01, 2008, 07:26:37 PM

evil robot wrote on Mon, 01 December 2008 12:08

Yeah, I've been wondering about mine too--I made the payment six weeks ago and the console is still showing it as not being shipped--was there an issue with the payment?

Sorry to be a pest.

Bear in mind that I received my gear a full week ago (tomorrow), and as far as I know, my console still says "no" in the "shipped" column.

I think some others have mentioned this as well, so if the invoice was received and payed, there's probably a very good chance that the gear is in transit as we speak.

Just thought I'd point this out.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Gordon Brinton on December 01, 2008, 09:09:56 PM

I have a stupid question...

If all of the ACM mics are 200 ohm impedance then why is the lowest ohm setting on the ACMP micpres designed at 300 ohms?

Not that it is a problem or anything. I was just curious.

Title: IMPRESSIONS..........
Post by: drBill on December 01, 2008, 10:17:07 PM

I posted this on another forum, but thought you guys who haven't received your gear yet might like my thoughts on the ACMP's and 1200's.....

---

Drum session today. ACMP73's on Kick in/out, ACMP 84's on snare top/side, ACMP81's on OH. (1200's mic of choice on OH.) API512B/C's on HH and toms. Biz on Room.

All I can say is that I had one big happy goofy smile on my face after pulling up the faders.

The only EQ I added was a tiny touch of EQ to the top snare mic (57), but I usually do that anyway. Often a lot..... Love the peak/dip EQ on the 84 better than the HF shelving.... Seems smoother, but ultimately I used a little of both.

The pre's sound absolutely, fantastically great!!!!!! They hung in with the API's and really, for the music I was doing, I prefered the ACMP's over the API's. They are that good. The kick was a huge as I've ever been able to get it - with ZERO EQ - and I know now I'll never need a sub kick. Craig (my normal drummer, well not normal, but the one I usually use) got 4 of these pre's as well and is kicking himself silly for not getting 12.

They are fat, round and juicy. VEry nice.

I'm still smiling.

Oh, and BTW, the 1200's hung in so well that I didn't swap them out with my faves for OH - the Gefell M71S. They stayed up all day. Never felt the need to try the Gefell's. They are well balanced and articulate. Can't wait to hear them with the mods, but I'm wishing I had ordered another to put the 47 boards into. This pair is staying either stock or doing the C12 mods.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Oliver Archut on December 01, 2008, 11:38:10 PM

Hello Guys,

the x-formers will be available as long people want them, hope to add a few more in the next couple of month.

Best regards,

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on December 02, 2008, 05:43:15 AM

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 01 December 2008 11:48

I have been getting

I'm happy for you Chance. I'm glad somebody is.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: MagnetoSound on December 02, 2008, 05:49:13 AM

dguidry wrote on Mon, 01 December 2008 22:50

MagnetoSound wrote on Mon, 01 December 2008 15:18

dguidry wrote on Mon, 01 December 2008 19:41

Tracking my package like Santa Clause on Christmas Eve.

Only a lawyer would spell it that way.

I had the option:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Santa_Clause

Of course you did.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Crash on December 02, 2008, 02:25:06 PM

compasspnt wrote on Mon, 01 December 2008 16:38

Man, I don't want to stir things up, and it will still be a while before all is fully available, but...

I just today got to hook up 2 of the prototype 1200's with two different electronics replacement boards, and the two corresponding transformers. These are really going to be nice! My favourite so far is the 47-inspired one with the BV8

I can't wait to get moving on the Bulldog Brand pre-modified production versions! BTW, new outside look as well.

For those looking for transformers, things are starting to move.

Thanks.

Terry, are any of the upgrade packages going to include any capsule replacements? I have a dodgy capsule in my 1200 and I am trying to decide on a course of action but without knowing all the upgrade options, I am spinning here.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on December 02, 2008, 03:42:54 PM

We don't plan on capsule "upgrades," because the capsules are actually pretty good. Referring here to the newest, latest versions of the Chinese capsules in the 1200 and a couple of other mics.

If you have a bad one, I would say replace it with one of their new ones.

Or if you prefer, for whatever reason, go out and find something else, like a CK12 or MBHO or something like that...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Crash on December 02, 2008, 04:22:52 PM

compasspnt wrote on Tue, 02 December 2008 14:42

We don't plan on capsule "upgrades," because the capsules are actually pretty good. Referring here to the newest, latest versions of the Chinese capsules in the 1200 and a couple of other mics.

If you have a bad one, I would say replace it with one of their new ones.

Or if you prefer, for whatever reason, go out and find something else, like a CK12 or MBHO or something like that...

Sweet, thanks Terry. I am talking with some of the guys over at Prodigy and it appears I may have a dust issue with this one. Not sure how you get dust off that part but I await their guidance. I felt this thing sounded pretty good to me out of the box so I am not really inclined to upgrade the capsule at this time but thought I would check and see what the future holds with your upgrades. Thanks for the info.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: duckhunter on December 03, 2008, 01:26:06 PM

I'm sitting here at my computer in my office looking at video of mud motors for the boat I'm building, when I hear a ping signifying I have a new email message. Its from fed ex notifying me my package was delivered. I walk out my office there and is the precious package from TNC sitting on the floor in my secretary's office. I should have left cookies and milk.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on December 03, 2008, 01:33:46 PM

dguidry wrote on Wed, 03 December 2008 10:26

I'm sitting here at my computer in my office looking at video of mud motors for the boat I'm building, when I hear a ping signifying I have a new email message. Its from fed ex notifying me my package was delivered. I walk out my office there and is the precious package from TNC sitting on the floor in my secretary's office. I should have left cookies and milk.

Just curious, but did you get any other E-mails from Fed Ex prior to delivery?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: duckhunter on December 03, 2008, 01:40:03 PM

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 03 December 2008 12:33

dguidry wrote on Wed, 03 December 2008 10:26

I'm sitting here at my computer in my office looking at video of mud motors for the boat I'm building, when I hear a ping signifying I have a new email message. Its from fed ex notifying me my package was delivered. I walk out my office there and is the precious package from TNC sitting on the floor in my secretary's office. I should have left cookies and milk.

Just curious, but did you get any other E-mails from Fed Ex prior to delivery?

Yes, saying they couldn't deliver yesterday and would deliver today. Why?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on December 03, 2008, 01:46:41 PM

dguidry wrote on Wed, 03 December 2008 10:40

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 03 December 2008 12:33

dguidry wrote on Wed, 03 December 2008 10:26

I'm sitting here at my computer in my office looking at video of mud motors for the boat I'm building, when I hear a ping signifying I have a new email message. Its from fed ex notifying me my package was delivered. I walk out my office there and is the precious package from TNC sitting on the floor in my secretary's office. I should have left cookies and milk.

Just curious, but did you get any other E-mails from Fed Ex prior to delivery?

Yes, saying they couldn't deliver yesterday and would deliver today. Why?

I've been getting reports that some have not been getting any E-mail notifications at all. They should get a notice when it is picked up/scanned, tracking, and delivery. Several have receive these notices even AFTER they receive the goods.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Leslie Hammond on December 03, 2008, 01:56:03 PM

Here is a link to my TnC user console theme song:

http://drop.io/UserConsoleTheme/asset/nonono

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 01 December 2008 13:43

dguidry wrote on Mon, 01 December 2008 11:41

Tracking my package like Santa Clause on Christmas Eve.

I hope Rudolph doesn't have those red no's in your case.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on December 03, 2008, 01:58:48 PM

LOL. Damn near fell on the floor. LOL I'm going to have to pass this one around

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Jeff Chitouras on December 03, 2008, 02:15:08 PM

Finally! A soundtrack while I incessantly check the user console... to no avail...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: jzombie on December 03, 2008, 02:50:50 PM

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 03 December 2008 13:46

I've been getting reports that some have not been getting any E-mail notifications at all. They should get a notice when it is picked up/scanned, tracking, and delivery. Several have receive these notices even AFTER they receive the goods.

I got an email from Fedex when the package was shipped, and another after I had signed for delivery yesterday.

Just to add to the chorus of thanks to Chance and everyone else involved for this. Preliminary tests show everything to be working as it should, build quality looks great, looking forward to using the gear!!!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: redddog on December 03, 2008, 02:58:58 PM

I got an email notification that my package was on the truck to be delivered. It wasn't sent when they actually sent it.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on December 03, 2008, 03:28:10 PM

I never received anything. I was still wondering when it would ship when it arrived.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on December 03, 2008, 03:52:25 PM

Here are some pix of the Bulldog upgrades to the TNC 1200.

This first one shows the C12-like upgrade, from one side. The board is inspired by Oliver's C12VR re-make for me and Jeff, but is made by our Lucas techs.

Stock TNC on left, Bulldog mod on right.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on December 03, 2008, 03:53:51 PM

Same stock TNC on left, and BD12 mod on right, but both flipped over.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on December 03, 2008, 03:57:22 PM

And here on the left, is the Bulldog Brand BD7, the U47-inspired electronics from Lucas, coupled with Oliver's BV8 Bulldog version dual transformer. I was listening to this one yesterday, and it seriously kicks some you-know-what.

On the right is, I think, the stock...not sure actually what is on the right...EDIT: IT IS THE UPGRADED BD12.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on December 03, 2008, 04:37:31 PM

This question may have already been answered but......

If I wanted to mod my 1200's or any of the other's could I send them to Oliver to have them done?

Thanks.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on December 03, 2008, 05:00:01 PM

compasspnt wrote on Wed, 03 December 2008 15:57

And here on the left, is the Bulldog Brand BD7, the U47-inspired electronics from Lucas, coupled with Oliver's BV8 Bulldog version dual transformer. I was listening to this one yesterday, and it seriously kicks some you-know-what.

On the right is, I think, the stock...not sure actually what is on the right...

Looks like the one on the right two frames up.
(C12 upgrade)
Are you guys removing some screen layers from the head basket?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on December 03, 2008, 05:19:43 PM

Yes, you're right...that is the upgraded BD7 on the left, and the upgraded BD12 on the right, both are modified. Thanks. Will amend the original post.

Duh...and I have both of those very mics right in front of me now...

I do believe that, for now at least, there is some removal of mesh from the BD12 version, but not (yet, if at all) from the BD7.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on December 03, 2008, 05:24:55 PM

Is that an EF86 in the mic on the left Terry?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on December 03, 2008, 08:14:02 PM

compasspnt wrote on Wed, 03 December 2008 17:19

I do believe that, for now at least, there is some removal of mesh from the BD12 version, but not (yet, if at all) from the BD7.

Makes sense, not much mesh on a C12.
Any idea of pricing on the modified BD versions?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on December 03, 2008, 08:25:51 PM

Greg Dixon wrote on Wed, 03 December 2008 17:24

Is that an EF86 in the mic on the left Terry?

We have tried several tubes...I think that one was an 86.

Bill_Urick wrote on Wed, 03 December 2008 20:14

compasspnt wrote on Wed, 03 December 2008 17:19

I do believe that, for now at least, there is some removal of mesh from the BD12 version, but not (yet, if at all) from the BD7.

Makes sense, not much mesh on a C12.
Any idea of pricing on the modified BD versions?

We are working on that, thanks.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on December 03, 2008, 09:51:19 PM

We are an impatient bunch of SOB's, aren't we?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on December 03, 2008, 11:10:35 PM

OK, have now heard that the tube in the BD7 pic (on the left above) is an EF860 made by RFT. These are very available.

Also we have tried 6HM8 with good success in it.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: duckhunter on December 04, 2008, 12:22:09 PM

Installed my 73 preamp yesterday and tried out the ACM 200 and ACM 6802T. Here are my observations:

73 Preamp: All is well except for indent positions 1, 2, 3 on HF band which cause distinct hum. HF attenuation knob has no effect on this..simply engaging any of the first three positions introduces hum. Are there fixes for this already available on the forum?

ACM 200: Killer vocal mic.

ACM 6902T: not so much killer mic.

Comparing either to Neuman TLM49..neither TNC mic has presence of Neuman TLM49.

I'm burning in the Mics and preamp, so I'll try again later and I'll report if any change.

Neuman TLM49 through TNC 73 preamp...best sounding combination I've heard in a long time.

Thanks to Chance and everyone else involved in this buy...great return for my money. The build quality is excellent. I'd participate in another, but can we do, like, acoustic guitars, reverb units, mastering hardware (compressors, limiters, eq), adat digital conversion units, word clock units, HD video cameras...I could use a new car, too.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on December 04, 2008, 12:49:11 PM

FYI:

Recieved and paid the shipping invoice:

2x 1200's
2x 310's
1x 900
4x 81's

Shipping to ATL = $138.-

Thanks Chance and merry xmas!

-jonathan

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: duckhunter on December 04, 2008, 02:35:31 PM

dguidry wrote on Thu, 04 December 2008 11:22

Installed my 73 preamp yesterday and tried out the ACM 200 and ACM 6802T. Here are my observations:

73 Preamp: All is well except for indent positions 1, 2, 3 on HF band which cause distinct hum. HF attenuation knob has no effect on this..simply engaging any of the first three positions introduces hum. Are there fixes for this already available on the forum?

ACM 200: Killer vocal mic.

ACM 6902T: not so much killer mic.

Comparing either to Neuman TLM49..neither TNC mic has presence of Neuman TLM49.

I'm burning in the Mics and preamp, so I'll try again later and I'll report if any change.

Neuman TLM49 through TNC 73 preamp...best sounding combination I've heard in a long time.

Thanks to Chance and everyone else involved in this buy...great return for my money. The build quality is excellent. I'd participate in another, but can we do, like, acoustic guitars, reverb units, mastering hardware (compressors, limiters, eq), adat digital conversion units, word clock units, HD video cameras...I could use a new car, too.

Bump

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on December 04, 2008, 03:30:13 PM

3 reds-1 red=1 green+2 reds=just paid my invoice=my booty shall be pilfered soon=yarrrrrrrrrr

now once the upgrade kits are made available, i shall be looking forward to depositing more (relatively small amounts of) currency in the TNC coffers for x-formers and pcbs.

thanks dudes!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on December 04, 2008, 03:36:15 PM

rjd2 wrote on Thu, 04 December 2008 15:30

now once the upgrade kits are made available, i shall be looking forward to depositing more (relatively small amounts of) currency in the TNC coffers for x-formers and pcbs.

200Nw/m2 to that !

rjd2 wrote on Thu, 04 December 2008 15:30

thanks dudes!

AND
520Nw/m2 to that !

Cheers,
j

Title: Hey TERRY!
Post by: drBill on December 04, 2008, 04:10:25 PM

Hi Terry,

back awhile, you spoke to someone at PSW and got my account instantiated. I was not receiving any "confirmation" email that allowed me to log in and verify my account.

THANKS!

I have been contacted by at least one other person who is having the same issue. Paul Glasser is a great contributor over on HR that is having the same issues as I had. He wants to get onboard at PSW but gets no confirmation email. Can you forward this to someone who can help out? I know on his end it would be much appreciated.

His PSW name is: Paul G

I know he appreciates it.

ALSO, I'm looking forward to your 1200 mods - boards and trannies. One of my brand new 1200's died last night, so I need to upgrade it now asap!

Thanks for your help!

bp

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: drBill on December 04, 2008, 04:21:55 PM

dguidry wrote on Thu, 04 December 2008 11:22

73 Preamp: All is well except for indent positions 1, 2, 3 on HF band which cause distinct hum. HF attenuation knob has no effect on this..simply engaging any of the first three positions introduces hum. Are there fixes for this already available on the forum?

I can confirm that all THREE of the pre/EQ's have a problem with hum. Brad McGowan and a couple of "beta" testers on GS believes it is inductor based and wants to contact Cinemag for a mu-metal fix.

I suggest waiting for Chance to contact the Chinese to see their thoughts on it before expending a lot of effort and cash towards something they might fix under warranty.

The problem is not completely subtle, and I'm surprised the Chinese did not catch it with the prototypes or QC testing. I have 6 units - two of each model. All hum. Different frequencies on the EQ freq selectors have differing amounts of hum.

here is my corespondance with Brad regarding the hum :

Brad - well, I'm getting it EVERYWHERE. I generally track with very little EQ. Prefer swapping mics or changing placement instead. So I really haven't noticed until you asked. Why - I had it on snare and have a very heavy hitter in. The gain has been low so I didn't notice before you mentioned. That and my EQ was set at 7.2k on the midband. (7.2k is the least affected of the mid-bands.)

Here's what I found. Like you said, gain boost or cut makes no difference. There is hum with EQ switched in on either mic or line input. It does not seem to be ground loop induced as it changes with Freq position. (I'm not 1000% sure on that, but the mic pre is completely clean so if it IS ground induced, it's a loop in the internal circuitry. Not completely unheard of....) Even switching the freq select switch on the midband to "off" does not completely get rid of the problem - although 97% of it goes away. Switching the gloabl EQ switch OUT of the path DOES get rid of 100% of the problem. The 360hz position is the worst, and it becomes increasingly less noticeable as you step up to 7.2k. Switching out the EQ globally isolates the problem and it is gone. Repeat - this is EQ based only. Definately sounds inductor based to me, but what do I know..... (pretty much nothing when it comes to electronic design). Please keep in mind that I opened up the gain on my console and speakers wide F-ing open to "hear" down into the noise floor. If the drummer even tapped on the snare, my hearing and speakers woud be down for the day. However - I did not really need to open it that wide open. It's fairly obvious. At this stage it's going to be no go on the 81 and 84 EQ sections. I'm still happy with the pre's. I'm off to check the 73 EQ's now. I suspect something siimilar. BTW, BOTH my 84's exhibit the identical problem.

Later note: Also, the 73's exhibit the problem as well.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: seedyunderbelly.com on December 04, 2008, 04:46:11 PM

rjd2 wrote on Thu, 04 December 2008 14:30

my booty shall be pilfered soon=yarrrrrrrrrr

made available, i shall be

thanks dudes!

RJru sure you want your Booty Pilfered?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on December 04, 2008, 05:15:24 PM

seedyunderbelly.com wrote on Thu, 04 December 2008 21:46

rjd2 wrote on Thu, 04 December 2008 14:30

my booty shall be pilfered soon=yarrrrrrrrrr

made available, i shall be

thanks dudes!

RJru sure you want your Booty Pilfered?

oh my god, if ever there was an aayyyooo moment. how did i miss that?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on December 04, 2008, 05:15:24 PM

drBill wrote on Thu, 04 December 2008 16:21

dguidry wrote on Thu, 04 December 2008 11:22

73 Preamp: All is well except for indent positions 1, 2, 3 on HF band which cause distinct hum. HF attenuation knob has no effect on this..simply engaging any of the first three positions introduces hum. Are there fixes for this already available on the forum?

I can confirm that all THREE of the pre/EQ's have a problem with hum. Brad McGowan and a couple of "beta" testers on GS believes it is inductor based and wants to contact Cinemag for a mu-metal fix.

I suggest waiting for Chance to contact the Chinese to see their thoughts on it before expending a lot of effort and cash towards something they might fix under warranty.

The problem is not completely subtle, and I'm surprised the Chinese did not catch it with the prototypes or QC testing. I have 6 units - two of each model. All hum. Different frequencies on the EQ freq selectors have differing amounts of hum.

here is my corespondance with Brad regarding the hum :

Brad - well, I'm getting it EVERYWHERE. I generally track with very little EQ. Prefer swapping mics or changing placement instead. So I really haven't noticed until you asked. Why - I had it on snare and have a very heavy hitter in. The gain has been low so I didn't notice before you mentioned. That and my EQ was set at 7.2k on the midband. (7.2k is the least affected of the mid-bands.)

Here's what I found. Like you said, gain boost or cut makes no difference. There is hum with EQ switched in on either mic or line input. It does not seem to be ground loop induced as it changes with Freq position. (I'm not 1000% sure on that, but the mic pre is completely clean so if it IS ground induced, it's a loop in the internal circuitry. Not completely unheard of....) Even switching the freq select switch on the midband to "off" does not completely get rid of the problem - although 97% of it goes away. Switching the gloabl EQ switch OUT of the path DOES get rid of 100% of the problem. The 360hz position is the worst, and it becomes increasingly less noticeable as you step up to 7.2k. Switching out the EQ globally isolates the problem and it is gone. Repeat - this is EQ based only. Definately sounds inductor based to me, but what do I know..... (pretty much nothing when it comes to electronic design). Please keep in mind that I opened up the gain on my console and speakers wide F-ing open to "hear" down into the noise floor. If the drummer even tapped on the snare, my hearing and speakers woud be down for the day. However - I did not really need to open it that wide open. It's fairly obvious. At this stage it's going to be no go on the 81 and 84 EQ sections. I'm still happy with the pre's. I'm off to check the 73 EQ's now. I suspect something siimilar. BTW, BOTH my 84's exhibit the identical problem.

Later note: Also, the 73's exhibit the problem as well.

Have you tried rotating the power transformer to minimize the hum?

READ THIS FIRST

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on December 04, 2008, 05:21:15 PM

I would like to assure everyone that I have mixed several projects using my 8 TnC modules, and have experienced no objectionable noises... I just mixed a tune where i used the 81s on the (very low level) acoustic guitars with the low shelf cranked all the way up ( ) , and there were no hum issues....

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: drBill on December 04, 2008, 06:16:12 PM

Hi Chuck - are you completely on 81's? I know you fixed your 81's so maybe that's why you are not having any more issues.

I can guarantee you that there are issues. I have not had the chance to rotate the transformer. They are racked and I'm in the middle of sessions. No time to pull and rotate. Will try that at some point. One person noted that freeing the transformer and physically hanging it outside the chassis to the rear helped reduce hum greatly. To me it sounds like an external PS might be what we're searching for.

That said, we may be talking about two (or more) different issues here. I'm aware that the 81's need transistors to be swapped out. My comments were re: 84's and 73's and they would NOT be acceptable to me if recording a quiet vocal or ac gtr at low levels if the 360Hz MID-BAND (NOT shelfing) eq was switched in. Shelfing didn't seem to be problematic, although I have not had time to scientifically dig thru this problem completely do to session constraints. I DO know that higher EQ positions (ie: 7.2k) have less susceptibility to the hum issue than lower EQ positions - most notably 360Hz. I have star grounding employed and a dead quiet analog and digital studio with a large format console, DAW, Analog, Computers & tons of outboard installed. I've been around the block several times re: bizzare noise issues. This one is internal in the Pre's and needs to be sussed out before we sign off on them.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on December 04, 2008, 08:10:47 PM

I have two 81s, four 84s and two 73s.

Title: Re: Hey TERRY!
Post by: Paul G on December 04, 2008, 10:13:04 PM

Thanks Doc. Looks like I'm legit now. And thanks to whomever fixed the registration.

First time poster but I've been lurking for a while now. I'm very interested in the mods on the TNC mics. I don't have a 1200 coming but I'd sure like too end up with one. I do have a 900 and a 310 coming..... some day. LOL

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on December 05, 2008, 01:46:18 AM

Welcome Paul, glad you got on board.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on December 05, 2008, 01:48:02 AM

Pauls are always welcome here.

900's & 310's are a nice combo, enjoy them! I used mine for room mics & overheads, respectively, recently & was very happy.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on December 05, 2008, 01:53:06 AM

The 310 is a really nice thing. We are also working in a Bulldog upgrade of tat.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Paul G on December 05, 2008, 10:04:23 AM

compasspnt wrote on Fri, 05 December 2008 01:53

The 310 is a really nice thing. We are also working in a Bulldog upgrade of tat.

Thanks for the welcome, Terry and Paul.

I'll keep an eye open for this upgrade, Terry. I'm curious, how long will the 1200 upgrades be available? Chance has eluded to another GB and if this is true, I will certainly get at least one 1200. Thus my question.

Also, I heard rumors of an upgrade for the 900 as well. Any word? Thanks.

Paul

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on December 05, 2008, 10:27:31 AM

Paul G wrote on Fri, 05 December 2008 07:04

compasspnt wrote on Fri, 05 December 2008 01:53

The 310 is a really nice thing. We are also working in a Bulldog upgrade of tat.

Thanks for the welcome, Terry and Paul.

I'll keep an eye open for this upgrade, Terry. I'm curious, how long will the 1200 upgrades be available? Chance has eluded to another GB and if this is true, I will certainly get at least one 1200. Thus my question.

Also, I heard rumors of an upgrade for the 900 as well. Any word? Thanks.

Paul

Hey Paul
Welcome aboard
The bull dog series 900 is in the works. Right now there are so many exciting things up coming that I am about to burst!! Never in my wildest dreams had I thought what is about to (and is) happening. The next GB will take on a different approach, meaning, what we've learned from past GB's will be refined and improved. I am trying to figure how to include the shipping along with the purchase price. This will save months of work. Also for those international orders like the UK and Australia, direct shipping. This will save double shipping and double duty AND TIME. We would need someone who is reputable in those countries who would want to take this on for distribution

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: mattrussell on December 05, 2008, 10:39:28 AM

was surprised to see a pair of 73's sitting in a rack at one of boston's larger studios last night. didn't know they were getting them. wasn't able to give them a spin (no time and they were not set up to go yet), but it was cool to see them. i'm still waiting for mine to ship.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on December 05, 2008, 11:01:55 AM

If I may ask, What studio in Boston?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: mattrussell on December 05, 2008, 11:34:48 AM

q division, which is actually in somerville. great place, great people there.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on December 05, 2008, 11:41:12 AM

Paul G wrote on Fri, 05 December 2008 10:04

compasspnt wrote on Fri, 05 December 2008 01:53

The 310 is a really nice thing. We are also working in a Bulldog upgrade of tat.

Thanks for the welcome, Terry and Paul.

I'll keep an eye open for this upgrade, Terry. I'm curious, how long will the 1200 upgrades be available? Chance has alluded to another GB and if this is true, I will certainly get at least one 1200. Thus my question.

Also, I heard rumors of an upgrade for the 900 as well. Any word?

The upgrade transformers already mentioned will be around for a long while.

The upgrade electronics that we are working on now will be available soon, and also for a long time.

Those are the things that you can "do yourself," if you are so able and inclined (transformers are fairly straightforward; electronics upgrades are not necessarily for the neophyte).

The Bulldog "pre-modified" (and more beautiful too) versions are in the works, and may be made available within a scenario somewhat like the Group Buy things, or perhaps as a "from stock" type item...we will see.

There is so much to do here, it is almost overwhelming at times, although incredibly exciting.

The 310 upgrades are being worked on right now. The 900 is planned, and hoped for, but is a somewhat different beast, so will come later.

Special thanks to David Roberts (immensely talented son of our PSW cohort Jeff) for upgrading the new Bulldog logo. Now everything is upgraded...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: organica on December 05, 2008, 11:47:26 AM

Don't mean to stir things up here ( paraphrasing T ) but is it possible to find an intern to get the remaining orders out ? Is that viable ? I'm offering this up since it is a "Group Buy" . Perhaps this is something WE can address . Hire a packer or 2 ? The price among 200+ remaining orders wouldn't be too bad .

THis has got to be major PITA for you right now Chance . No way I'd want to maintain my current workload/family life/all other stuff , plus be burdened with sending all of those packages ...... some of you would get your orders in 2010 ( or 11) if that were the case . Good luck .

OR ... get Vanilla Ice on the job cuz , " If there's a problem" , YO he'll solve it !

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on December 05, 2008, 12:07:56 PM

Gotta mention here that Rob (Ice) is a very nice guy when you know him.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: duckhunter on December 05, 2008, 12:11:31 PM

drBill wrote on Thu, 04 December 2008 15:21

dguidry wrote on Thu, 04 December 2008 11:22

73 Preamp: All is well except for indent positions 1, 2, 3 on HF band which cause distinct hum. HF attenuation knob has no effect on this..simply engaging any of the first three positions introduces hum. Are there fixes for this already available on the forum?

I can confirm that all THREE of the pre/EQ's have a problem with hum. Brad McGowan and a couple of "beta" testers on GS believes it is inductor based and wants to contact Cinemag for a mu-metal fix.

I suggest waiting for Chance to contact the Chinese to see their thoughts on it before expending a lot of effort and cash towards something they might fix under warranty.

The problem is not completely subtle, and I'm surprised the Chinese did not catch it with the prototypes or QC testing. I have 6 units - two of each model. All hum. Different frequencies on the EQ freq selectors have differing amounts of hum.

here is my corespondance with Brad regarding the hum :

Brad - well, I'm getting it EVERYWHERE. I generally track with very little EQ. Prefer swapping mics or changing placement instead. So I really haven't noticed until you asked. Why - I had it on snare and have a very heavy hitter in. The gain has been low so I didn't notice before you mentioned. That and my EQ was set at 7.2k on the midband. (7.2k is the least affected of the mid-bands.)

Here's what I found. Like you said, gain boost or cut makes no difference. There is hum with EQ switched in on either mic or line input. It does not seem to be ground loop induced as it changes with Freq position. (I'm not 1000% sure on that, but the mic pre is completely clean so if it IS ground induced, it's a loop in the internal circuitry. Not completely unheard of....) Even switching the freq select switch on the midband to "off" does not completely get rid of the problem - although 97% of it goes away. Switching the gloabl EQ switch OUT of the path DOES get rid of 100% of the problem. The 360hz position is the worst, and it becomes increasingly less noticeable as you step up to 7.2k. Switching out the EQ globally isolates the problem and it is gone. Repeat - this is EQ based only. Definately sounds inductor based to me, but what do I know..... (pretty much nothing when it comes to electronic design). Please keep in mind that I opened up the gain on my console and speakers wide F-ing open to "hear" down into the noise floor. If the drummer even tapped on the snare, my hearing and speakers woud be down for the day. However - I did not really need to open it that wide open. It's fairly obvious. At this stage it's going to be no go on the 81 and 84 EQ sections. I'm still happy with the pre's. I'm off to check the 73 EQ's now. I suspect something siimilar. BTW, BOTH my 84's exhibit the identical problem.

Later note: Also, the 73's exhibit the problem as well.

I so want to use the HF bands to sweeten vox on my TLM49, but can't because of the hum issue. I'm going to bring all these notes on the forum about the issue, and bring the ACMP 73 to my tech to see if he can get it resolved. I've waited this long, and I can't wait to use the preamp any longer.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Jeff Chitouras on December 05, 2008, 12:12:55 PM

Hi Chance, How many invoices left to ship at this point? You had about 150 ten days ago.

Another person in Somerville, MA waiting...

Thanks again for everything you're doing for this GB.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on December 05, 2008, 12:13:53 PM

The problem is not packing and shipping, the problem is receiving payment for shipping. They can pack and ship much faster than the invoice/payment is received. I have been there and seen packages ready to ship complete with shipping labels afixed, but are held up because the shipping has not been paid. When I invoice an order, that means it is ready to ship. I check for payments received many times a day. When I notify the shipper that someones order has been paid, it will go out that day or the following day.
This is the big problem I want to avoid the next go round

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: drBill on December 05, 2008, 12:32:59 PM

CHANCE wrote on Fri, 05 December 2008 11:13

This is the big problem I want to avoid the next go round

Chance - two options.

Option 1 - for those who want expedited shipping. They pay double your estimate (off the top of your head) costs at the outset when they order their gear. They pay a premium and you make a little $$$, but their orders go out first.

Option 2 - for everyone else, they wait and you do it as you have been. As you can get to it.

Next time, I suggest you add in enough to the shipping "AND HANDLING" overhead to pay someone to do your current "invoice and ship" job.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: QweziRider on December 05, 2008, 12:38:43 PM

CHANCE wrote on Fri, 05 December 2008 11:13

The problem is not packing and shipping, the problem is receiving payment for shipping. They can pack and ship much faster than the invoice/payment is received. I have been there and seen packages ready to ship complete with shipping labels afixed, but are held up because the shipping has not been paid. When I invoice an order, that means it is ready to ship. I check for payments received many times a day. When I notify the shipper that someones order has been paid, it will go out that day or the following day.
This is the big problem I want to avoid the next go round

O.k. I paid on the 17th (the day I got my invoice) trying to not hold up the process and become a part of the problem. It cleared the credit card company on the 19th. Still no shipment as of today, though.

Please don't take me as being bitchy. Anything but. I do appreciate the immensity of the whole project for you. I tried to play by the rules as fast as I could. Any word on a time estimate for those who have paid?

Again, thank you so very much for the whole shebang.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Paul G on December 05, 2008, 12:40:00 PM

CHANCE wrote on Fri, 05 December 2008 10:27

Hey Paul
Welcome aboard
The bull dog series 900 is in the works. Right now there are so many exciting things up coming that I am about to burst!! Never in my wildest dreams had I thought what is about to (and is) happening. The next GB will take on a different approach, meaning, what we've learned from past GB's will be refined and improved. I am trying to figure how to include the shipping along with the purchase price. This will save months of work. Also for those international orders like the UK and Australia, direct shipping. This will save double shipping and double duty AND TIME. We would need someone who is reputable in those countries who would want to take this on for distribution

Thanks Chance. I'll have to look into the Bulldog stuff again. I thought the upgrades were packaged under their name. This sounds like they're going to mod the TNC mics and then resell them under the Bulldoag name. Is this correct?

I agree an easier system to handle the shipping payments would sure make it easier on you. This sounds like it might work however, rates might change over a 4-6 month period.

BTW, I'm over at HR under the name P. Glaser. I signed up there years ago and have tried to get my handle changed but you know how that goes... LOL

I really appreciate all the work you guys are doing!

Paul

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on December 05, 2008, 12:47:27 PM

Jeff Chitouras wrote on Fri, 05 December 2008 09:12

Hi Chance, How many invoices left to ship at this point? You had about 150 ten days ago.

Another person in Somerville, MA waiting...

Thanks again for everything you're doing for this GB.

Going as fas as we can. Maybe if you think of it this way. If 1000+ people walked into one store and wanted certain items, they would be out of stock quick and would have to get more from their warehouse.
BTW I lived at 45 Florence st in Sommerville from 69 to 72 and started The musicians workshop in Waltham on Clamatis st. in 71

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Paul G on December 05, 2008, 12:50:01 PM

compasspnt wrote on Fri, 05 December 2008 11:41

The upgrade transformers already mentioned will be around for a long while.

The upgrade electronics that we are working on now will be available soon, and also for a long time.

Those are the things that you can "do yourself," if you are so able and inclined (transformers are fairly straightforward; electronics upgrades are not necessarily for the neophyte).

The Bulldog "pre-modified" (and more beautiful too) versions are in the works, and may be made available within a scenario somewhat like the Group Buy things, or perhaps as a "from stock" type item...we will see.

There is so much to do here, it is almost overwhelming at times, although incredibly exciting.

The 310 upgrades are being worked on right now. The 900 is planned, and hoped for, but is a somewhat different beast, so will come later.

Special thanks to David Roberts (immensely talented son of our PSW cohort Jeff) for upgrading the new Bulldog logo. Now everything is upgraded...

Thanks for that info, Terry. Looks like you've answered my question to Chance as well. I seriously want to get my hands on one or two of the 1200's to mod. I'm really wanting to move up to a better class of mic for vocals (although I do have an NTK that I really like).

I've done my share of electronics work so the kits should be no problem. Have you got an idea what the price point will be for the bulldog versions of the 1200? (Sorry if this is out of line). And will those be available soon or after the next GB?

Thanks for all you're doing.

Paul

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: organica on December 05, 2008, 01:03:34 PM

compasspnt wrote on Fri, 05 December 2008 12:07

Gotta mention here that Rob (Ice) is a very nice guy when you know him.

Heard that before about him . Wish he'd consider doing another Ice record . The time might be right for one with Gnarls B kinda twist . why not ?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on December 05, 2008, 01:08:08 PM

Hey Paul
I had 2 of the moded mics here for a week for evaluation and I hated to part with them. Now Terry has them (I think)
I thought the 1200's sounded great as is, but when I A/B them with the mods, WOW! That's all I can say. It's wierd. I have a real C-12 and a long body 47 and mostly use them for show, or to draw people in for work. I rarely use them unless it is demanded by a client. It's just that they're so valuable dollar wise, I'm scared to take my eyes off of them thru the glass in the TR, and I have had no complaints (at all) with the TnC mics, and a lot of compliments.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: itsapleasure on December 05, 2008, 02:12:31 PM

Oliver Archut wrote on Wed, 19 November 2008 09:11

I make great cables. I can solder a patchbay. But I don't know jack OR shit about what it takes to mod these mics! Am I screwed? I'm gonna need explicit instructions, because I can tell by Se
Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Paul G on December 05, 2008, 02:18:36 PM

CHANCE wrote on Fri, 05 December 2008 13:08

Hey Paul
I had 2 of the moded mics here for a week for evaluation and I hated to part with them. Now Terry has them (I think)
I thought the 1200's sounded great as is, but when I A/B them with the mods, WOW! That's all I can say. It's wierd. I have a real C-12 and a long body 47 and mostly use them for show, or to draw people in for work. I rarely use them unless it is demanded by a client. It's just that they're so valuable dollar wise, I'm scared to take my eyes off of them thru the glass in the TR, and I have had no complaints (at all) with the TnC mics, and a lot of compliments.

Thanks for that information, Chance. Now I'm kicking myself even more for not getting one. If you were to use one over the other for tenor male vox, which would it be? Thanks.

Paul

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Oliver Archut on December 05, 2008, 02:27:44 PM

Did you ever get this together? I'm in J's camp!

I decided to give my 12 year old daughter a computer with all the needed accessories as a x-mass gift, so she can use my hand drawn items and make a nice pdf file of it. She will get the computer early so you guys don't have to wait to x-mass. By the way I am serious.

Best regards,

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on December 05, 2008, 02:30:44 PM

Paul G wrote on Fri, 05 December 2008 11:18

CHANCE wrote on Fri, 05 December 2008 13:08

Hey Paul
I had 2 of the moded mics here for a week for evaluation and I hated to part with them. Now Terry has them (I think)
I thought the 1200's sounded great as is, but when I A/B them with the mods, WOW! That's all I can say. It's wierd. I have a real C-12 and a long body 47 and mostly use them for show, or to draw people in for work. I rarely use them unless it is demanded by a client. It's just that they're so valuable dollar wise, I'm scared to take my eyes off of them thru the glass in the TR, and I have had no complaints (at all) with the TnC mics, and a lot of compliments.

Thanks for that information, Chance. Now I'm kicking myself even more for not getting one. If you were to use one over the other for tenor male vox, which would it be? Thanks.

Paul

If you're referring to the moded 1200 mics, I lean toward the 47 inspired mic

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on December 05, 2008, 02:41:09 PM

I like them both...a lot.

But I agree, the 47-inspired (NOT A CLONE) is way cool...there is just "something" about the sound of it.

Probably a lot of that is the BV8 T-F xfmr.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Nizzle on December 05, 2008, 03:08:37 PM

Speaking of these mods - When will both the transformer AND Electronics be available for purchase.

Excited to move on these modifications.

-t

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on December 05, 2008, 03:17:44 PM

Nizzle wrote on Fri, 05 December :08

Speaking of these mods - When will both the transformer AND Electronics be available for purchase.

Excited to move on these modifications.

We are excited for you.

Everyone is moving as fast as they can. Again, there is MUCH to do, and despite the so-called recession, we are working almost around the clock.

Not to mention the day jobs...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on December 05, 2008, 03:25:35 PM

compasspnt wrote on Fri, 05 December 2008 12:17

Not to mention the day jobs...

Just last week (or was it two weeks ago) I was sitting at the computer invoicing orders and I hear a knock at the door. I totally forgot that I have sessions to do too.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: seedyunderbelly.com on December 05, 2008, 05:43:14 PM

compasspnt wrote on Fri, 05 December 2008 11:07

Gotta mention here that Rob (Ice) is a very nice guy when you know him.

biblically

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: against88 on December 05, 2008, 05:46:30 PM

next group buy should include a mic/capsule system like the RED mic type A and B. that whole cmv563 system should become the next 500 series format. imagine everyone making all sorts of tube and solid state bodies that were interchangeable with all sorts of capsule/heads?? it'd be freakin sweet!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Paul G on December 05, 2008, 05:51:41 PM

CHANCE wrote on Fri, 05 December 2008 14:30

If you're referring to the moded 1200 mics, I lean toward the 47 inspired mic

Thanks Chance. That's where I'll start, (if I ever get my hands on a 1200).

Quote:

I like them both...a lot.

But I agree, the 47-inspired (NOT A CLONE) is way cool...there is just "something" about the sound of it.

Probably a lot of that is the BV8 T-F xfmr.

Thanks Terry.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Paul G on December 05, 2008, 05:53:34 PM

seedyunderbelly.com wrote on Fri, 05 December 2008 17:43

compasspnt wrote on Fri, 05 December 2008 11:07

Gotta mention here that Rob (Ice) is a very nice guy when you know him.

biblically
LOL Let's hope not!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: seedyunderbelly.com on December 05, 2008, 06:54:53 PM

Paul G wrote on Fri, 05 December 2008 16:53

seedyunderbelly.com wrote on Fri, 05 December 2008 17:43

compasspnt wrote on Fri, 05 December 2008 11:07

Gotta mention here that Rob (Ice) is a very nice guy when you know him.

biblically
LOL Let's hope not!

Terrys gotta roll like Terrys gotta roll

We know the kind of dudes dude likes

fwiw I have Taken a shine to Ice too

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TB-AV on December 06, 2008, 12:59:51 PM

"I so want to use the HF bands to sweeten vox on my TLM49, but can't because of the hum issue. I'm going to bring all these notes on the forum about the issue, and bring the ACMP 73 to my tech to see if he can get it resolved. I've waited this long, and I can't wait to use the preamp any longer."

Please post his/your findings as both my 73's have the identical issue as yours.

Tom

EDIT: I just pulled the lid and tried the transformer rotation. It does help. In my case turning the transformer about 1/4 turn CCW gave the best results. This is not fix though.

All positions except off of the HF switch have the problem.

As far as I can tell the only controls that are associated with the problem are as follows...

EQ Switch - This will bypass the noise. In = noise Out = No noise

The HF Selector Switch = all positions noisy except Off.

The Boost / Cut control to left of HF Switch. Even with this turned CCW to fully cut, you can still hear the problem fairly easily in the 0.36 position. Set to full CW boost all teh positions are very easily heard.

I can't determine that any other functions have any effect.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: against88 on December 07, 2008, 01:55:34 PM

no no, no, no no, no no no, no no , no no nonono

i resisted listening to the theme song for a few days... then i caved ... now that's all i hear when i refresh and log-in.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on December 07, 2008, 02:17:37 PM

Perhaps someone could make a list of all that needs to be done on the pres and mics. I will be meeting with them in mid January at the NAMM show

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on December 07, 2008, 02:45:35 PM

just to clarify, the electronics/pcb mods for mics will be announced in this thread when available, correct? im waiting to buy x-formers til then so its just 1 package. thanks.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on December 07, 2008, 04:00:04 PM

rjd2 wrote on Sun, 07 December 2008 14:45

just to clarify, the electronics/pcb mods for mics will be announced in this thread when available, correct? im waiting to buy x-formers til then so its just 1 package. thanks.

Affirmative.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on December 07, 2008, 06:49:05 PM

Just to give you guys an idea of how much printing this involves, the tank on the left is the black ink which I filled right before I started shipping

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Paul G on December 07, 2008, 09:22:08 PM

CHANCE wrote on Sun, 07 December 2008 18:49

Just to give you guys an idea of how much printing this involves, the tank on the left is the black ink which I filled right before I started shipping

Are those gallon tanks?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on December 07, 2008, 09:36:17 PM

Each tank holds about 100 ml

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Jeff Chitouras on December 07, 2008, 10:26:31 PM

This song snippet starts up in my head every time I log in.

I'm jonesing to pay a shipping invoice...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Mike Dunn on December 09, 2008, 11:09:34 AM

I paid my shipping invoice last Thursday when I got my green "YES" and three boxes arrived first thing Monday morning. The small one contained two ACM2s, which sounded nice and smooth on my voice, perhaps a touch brighter on the "back" side, opposite of the TNC logo. The included rubber mic clips were however both broken.
The medium sized box contained four identical brief cases, two ACM310s and two ACM6802Ts. The ACM310s looked a bit nicer in their included velvet lined wooden boxes and after warming up sounded rich and present on my voice. The ACM6802Ts didn't seem to have the same presence, though dialing through the polar patterns from the bass boost in figure 8 to the presence boost in omni made me think they'd make a flexible room mic pair.
The largest box contained two ACMP84s and two ACMP81s, individually packaged. The ACMP84s both powered up fine and all the pre and eq controls worked as expected, including the thump on the gain control at 9 o'clock. With the gain set to 80 there is an audible buzz that can be accentuated with the EQ, but with a normal speaking voice the gain setting pushed it down into the inaudible range. The first ACMP81 powered up fine and the pre worked as expected, but when the EQ was engaged there was a loud pop, the audio became distorted, and a buzz equal in level to the input signal began. The dreaded transistor issue I assume. While the knob layout is a bit funky, I'm salivating to get the EQ issue resolved so I can use the expanded choices, it's much more a scalpel than the 84's EQ. The second ACMP81 would not power on at all. The fuse looked fine, but I went ahead and swapped it with the included spare to no avail. I'm guessing we'll address DOAs after everybody gets inital delivery, so that one will stay in it's box for now.

I tracked three songs for a 3 piece rock band a month ago and they're coming in again on Saturday, so I'll get a chance to re-cut a couple of the same tunes with the new gear;
Kick/Beta 52A and top snare/SM57 - change from Trident Series 80 pre-EQs to ACMP84s.
Stereo overheads/SM81s - change to ACM310s.
Mono room mic/C414 - change to stereo ACM6802Ts.
Marshall 4x12/SM57/Series 80 pre-EQ - add ACM2/ACMP81 as second input.
Bass/RedEye DI/Series 80 pre-EQ - the other ACMP81 was destined for this spot so I'll have to compare it to using it for the ribbon mic and see where it has the most impact.

Big thanks to the T and the C for these new tools, it should make this session a real educational experience.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Paul G on December 09, 2008, 12:33:09 PM

Mike Dunn wrote on Tue, 09 December 2008 11:09

I paid my shipping invoice last Thursday when I got my green "YES" and three boxes arrived first thing Monday morning. The small one contained two ACM2s, which sounded nice and smooth on my voice, perhaps a touch brighter on the "back" side, opposite of the TNC logo. The included rubber mic clips were however both broken.
The medium sized box contained four identical brief cases, two ACM310s and two ACM6802Ts. The ACM310s looked a bit nicer in their included velvet lined wooden boxes and after warming up sounded rich and present on my voice. The ACM6802Ts didn't seem to have the same presence, though dialing through the polar patterns from the bass boost in figure 8 to the presence boost in omni made me think they'd make a flexible room mic pair.
The largest box contained two ACMP84s and two ACMP81s, individually packaged. The ACMP84s both powered up fine and all the pre and eq controls worked as expected, including the thump on the gain control at 9 o'clock. With the gain set to 80 there is an audible buzz that can be accentuated with the EQ, but with a normal speaking voice the gain setting pushed it down into the inaudible range. The first ACMP81 powered up fine and the pre worked as expected, but when the EQ was engaged there was a loud pop, the audio became distorted, and a buzz equal in level to the input signal began. The dreaded transistor issue I assume. While the knob layout is a bit funky, I'm salivating to get the EQ issue resolved so I can use the expanded choices, it's much more a scalpel than the 84's EQ. The second ACMP81 would not power on at all. The fuse looked fine, but I went ahead and swapped it with the included spare to no avail. I'm guessing we'll address DOAs after everybody gets inital delivery, so that one will stay in it's box for now.

I tracked three songs for a 3 piece rock band a month ago and they're coming in again on Saturday, so I'll get a chance to re-cut a couple of the same tunes with the new gear;
Kick/Beta 52A and top snare/SM57 - change from Trident Series 80 pre-EQs to ACMP84s.
Stereo overheads/SM81s - change to ACM310s.
Mono room mic/C414 - change to stereo ACM6802Ts.
Marshall 4x12/SM57/Series 80 pre-EQ - add ACM2/ACMP81 as second input.
Bass/RedEye DI/Series 80 pre-EQ - the other ACMP81 was destined for this spot so I'll have to compare it to using it for the ribbon mic and see where it has the most impact.

Big thanks to the T and the C for these new tools, it should make this session a real educational experience.

This sucks big time, Mike. I hope it all works out. Of course, I'm still waiting for my first green yes.....

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on December 09, 2008, 01:12:11 PM

Hey Mike. Thanks for your understanding and we'll take care of that DOA soon.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on December 09, 2008, 02:16:49 PM

on the subject of tube swaps:

as the 1200 uses 12ax7 tubes, any 12ay7/12au7 tubes will be COMPATIBLE, just at different gain levels, right? i've got a few NOS tubes here that are 12ax7 compatible that im thinking of trying out when they arrive.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rodabod on December 09, 2008, 03:23:30 PM

rjd2 wrote on Tue, 09 December 2008 19:16

as the 1200 uses 12ax7 tubes, any 12ay7/12au7 tubes will be COMPATIBLE, just at different gain levels, right? i've got a few NOS tubes here that are 12ax7 compatible that im thinking of trying out when they arrive.

True. The other 12A*7 valves will tend to actually work better as they should couple better to the stock transformer. Just make sure noise isn't an issue with individual valves.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on December 10, 2008, 08:31:19 AM

I actually the lower gain valves in my Tele M16mk2's which are somekind of a modded version of the ACM1200 as well.

I swap the ECC81(12AT7)for a 6072a (12AY7).

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on December 10, 2008, 07:13:00 PM

I shipped out some international orders and can't seem to get the status from USPS
Heres their E-mail

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on December 11, 2008, 09:10:08 AM

This is probably meaningless to those who are still waiting, but to show the scale of this ordeal, we have already shipped almost 1,400 packages.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: NelsonL on December 11, 2008, 10:02:20 AM

That is impressive.

Chance, are you still up for local pickups, or better to wait?

I have a band-mate who's Mom lives in Rosemeade and he's willing to swing by on my behalf.

Or, I can sit tight for the green light.

Thanks,

Liam

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on December 11, 2008, 10:13:58 AM

wow. 4 packages came today. with a bunch of microphones in then. not bad. i mean, the fed ex person was a dude, and i was expecting beyonce in a thong, and it just smelled like box, and i was expecting the scent of childhood memory and cheesesteak, but i guess this is alright.

no, seriously this is awesome. thanks again guys!!!!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: against88 on December 11, 2008, 06:40:31 PM

ok so we know a few boxes made it to philly =)

(i'm moving back in 2 weeks so i'm excited!)

-w

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on December 11, 2008, 08:09:12 PM

against88 wrote on Thu, 11 December 2008 23:40

ok so we know a few boxes made it to philly =)

(i'm moving back in 2 weeks so i'm excited!)

-w

wicked. im assuming you will be immediately tommy dinic's-bound?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: against88 on December 11, 2008, 11:50:55 PM

a - i've never been to dommy dinic's! i've always been underwhelmed by both pats and geno's so i always suggest people go to whatever grease truck or shitty corner pizza place for their steaks...

b - AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!

one green yes!!

shipping to ny was $149, about 12% of my order total. kinda scary but i'm sooo stoked. paypaypay

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on December 12, 2008, 02:12:11 PM

can anyone tell me the tube type in the acm-900? i cant read the value, and it doesnt say on chance's site in the description. wanna look into possible upgrades. thanks much.

(88-if you eat pork, tommy dinic's pulled pork w/ broccoli rabe and sharp prov WILL change your life. guaranteed.)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: against88 on December 13, 2008, 02:51:28 AM

ok after my mistake of attempting to use an amex, i moved on to mastercard, where the checkout form gave me a "DECLINED" error message, but i got a confirmation email saying the order was processed...

i'm going to sit still for a day and see if i get a second green yes....

fingers crossed.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on December 13, 2008, 08:16:11 AM

rjd2 wrote on Fri, 12 December 2008 14:12

can anyone tell me the tube type in the acm-900? i cant read the value, and it doesnt say on chance's site in the description. wanna look into possible upgrades. thanks much.

Not sure. I will try to find out. Was wondering that as well.

Surely it's a 12A-something...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on December 13, 2008, 08:17:44 AM

compasspnt wrote on Sat, 13 December 2008 13:16

rjd2 wrote on Fri, 12 December 2008 14:12

can anyone tell me the tube type in the acm-900? i cant read the value, and it doesnt say on chance's site in the description. wanna look into possible upgrades. thanks much.

Not sure. I will try to find out. Was wondering that as well.

Surely it's a 12A-something...

i think it actually looks smaller, IIRC. just eyeballed it real quick, though.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: itsapleasure on December 13, 2008, 09:04:53 AM

against88 wrote on Thu, 11 December 2008 23:50

a - i've never been to dommy dinic's! i've always been underwhelmed by both pats and geno's so i always suggest people go to whatever grease truck or shitty corner pizza place for their steaks...

same here...gotta try dinic's..gotta cast my vote for campo's in old city at the moment.

I'll take care of the Wiz-wit's and Dogfish 60min IPAs if ya'll wanna come over and help me figure out this transformer mod....

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on December 13, 2008, 12:14:27 PM

itsapleasure wrote on Sat, 13 December 2008 14:04

against88 wrote on Thu, 11 December 2008 23:50

a - i've never been to dommy dinic's! i've always been underwhelmed by both pats and geno's so i always suggest people go to whatever grease truck or shitty corner pizza place for their steaks...

same here...gotta try dinic's..gotta cast my vote for campo's in old city at the moment.

I'll take care of the Wiz-wit's and Dogfish 60min IPAs if ya'll wanna come over and help me figure out this transformer mod....

lets put it this way: from the minute i first had a dinic's pulled pork, it killed any desire for any other italian sandwich in the city. immediately rendered them all null and void.

with that said, im not a wiz-witter, but im game to team up on the mods if you all wanna do that.ive got 19 mics here that all should be getting x-formers and pcb's...and a hakko desoldering gun which rips through desoldering....pm me...

also, what would REALLY be great is if some genius out there could identify the weak links, if any, in the pcb's of the mics that arent getting mod boards(maybe film/mylar caps?), so they could be swapped out. i've cracked most of the mics i bought, so far it all looks like its gonna be pretty straight forward work i think.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Paul G on December 13, 2008, 12:29:44 PM

compasspnt wrote on Sat, 13 December 2008 08:16

rjd2 wrote on Fri, 12 December 2008 14:12

can anyone tell me the tube type in the acm-900? i cant read the value, and it doesnt say on chance's site in the description. wanna look into possible upgrades. thanks much.

Not sure. I will try to find out. Was wondering that as well.

Surely it's a 12A-something...

The tube in the 900 is a mini, isn't it? I'm also interested in what tube, if a swap is recommended. Thanks.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TheDan on December 13, 2008, 12:44:54 PM

compasspnt wrote on Sat, 13 December 2008 08:16

rjd2 wrote on Fri, 12 December 2008 14:12

can anyone tell me the tube type in the acm-900? i cant read the value, and it doesnt say on chance's site in the description. wanna look into possible upgrades. thanks much.

Not sure. I will try to find out. Was wondering that as well.

Surely it's a 12A-something...

its actually some type of chinese branded 6j1. 7-pin, mini.

NOT a 12Axx

edit: here's some info http://recforums.prosoundweb.com/index.php/m/336418/0/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on December 13, 2008, 04:15:54 PM

I just looked in the specs and it says 12AX7 tube. I'll open one up later and check for sure.

Title: Re: TNC ACMP-81 repairs
Post by: nob turner on December 13, 2008, 06:04:43 PM

i just got my shipment, with a pair of ACMP-81's. GREAT packing, nice looking unit, chance, except...

why are they ORANGE???

just kidding. the black is pefrect. mine make the dreaded hum (in differing amounts for the two units) and i have re-read the fix info from zmix back around page 93 of this thread. i'm ready to order the replacement transistors and attempt a fix, however...

neither digikey nor mouser nor digitron seem to have them... though the digitron site is not particularly helpful, and MIGHT have them, and they just don't want to part with them (so to speak). SO...

anyone have a link for a reliable source for these transistors? OR... anyone have way too many of them and want to sell off some excess? if i understand correctly, i will need 4 each of the BC461-6 and BC441-6 for each of my two preamps, totalling 8 of each.

AND... anyone have photos or more detailed instructions on the replacement process? i can easily find the offending transistors on the EQ boards, but am not sure if i have to worry about anything other than removing the knobs before doing the de- and re-soldering.

ALTERNATELY--anyone in the San Francisco area want to pool resources and do this together somehow?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TheDan on December 14, 2008, 02:50:34 AM

Chance, do you happen to have a schematic for the 900? That would be quite handy.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: sodderboy on December 15, 2008, 08:29:34 AM

Just a note on the ink- if you select draft mode the prints are just as readable, and you use much less ink. 90% of my printing is in draft mode, and no one notices a difference. Pages print faster too, hint.

Still waiting patiently for green yesses. . .
Mike

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: QweziRider on December 15, 2008, 06:32:02 PM

Coming up on 28 days since I paid shipping and no sign of shipping yet. I do not want to come across as impolite, but I inquired three times about it with no reply. Help, please?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on December 15, 2008, 08:17:39 PM

Any chance of a status report as to how many left to ship for those of us still waiting? That would be very much appreciated (if possible).

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: ScotcH on December 16, 2008, 02:02:15 PM

Right ... and how many outstanding shipping invoices waiting on payment? Any way to e-mail notify thise guys to clear some space for those of us waiting on some xmas goodies?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: okgb on December 16, 2008, 03:42:27 PM

Or ship to the people who will pay first ?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on December 16, 2008, 06:08:35 PM

Chance said he did email those he was waiting for payments from.

I understand the impatience.. I was one of the people who used Paypal on the first day... Chance isn't driving who gets their order filled first. He has a packing company doing that for him. He just sends out the invoices when they pack the orders.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on December 16, 2008, 09:57:31 PM

Hey guys
I won't be posting as much for the next three months as I am booked for a lot of all-nighters. Bummer, this means I won't be getting up with the sun for a while.
I just got an E-mail from the pack/shippers stating "Where are all the labels for about 30 of you guys" I checked and couldn't find them and after some research discovered that when I switched my E-mail from MAC OS-9 (classic) Outlook express to OS-X Mac mail, those 30 orders did not get imported into MAC mail. The shippers thought I was waiting on payment, but I never received the information. I logged back into my Outlook Express, and sure enough, there they were. I just now invoiced them. To top things off my Epson R-220 which has been through 2 GB's tried to swallow about 20 papers at once and when I pulled the papers out and tried to print again, it won't print. I tried all the utilities, but no go. Tomorrow I hope I can find an Epson that takes the same ink carts because I use the CIS (continuous inking system) I do know that the R-200, 220, 300 and 320 all use the same carts.
I have several hundred E-mails and my PM boxes are full, but I just don't have the time to answer each and every message. When time permits, I'll try to glance over all the messages and post on the boards an over all view of answers
Edit/Delete Message

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on December 16, 2008, 10:09:21 PM

Well, while the natives are already restless...

any news on those "47" boards Mr. Terry?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on December 16, 2008, 10:23:12 PM

speaking of x-mas goodies, chance-you've done a shit-ton for all of us here. take some holiday time for yourself here at some point! thanks much! whether its mod boards, x-formers, original orders....we'll live.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on December 17, 2008, 08:36:22 AM

CHANCE wrote on Tue, 16 December 2008 21:57

Hey guys
I won't be posting as much for the next three months as I am booked for a lot of all-nighters. Bummer, this means I won't be getting up with the sun for a while.
I just got an E-mail from the pack/shippers stating "Where are all the labels for about 30 of you guys" I checked and couldn't find them and after some research discovered that when I switched my E-mail from MAC OS-9 (classic) Outlook express to OS-X Mac mail, those 30 orders did not get imported into MAC mail. The shippers thought I was waiting on payment, but I never received the information. I logged back into my Outlook Express, and sure enough, there they were. I just now invoiced them. To top things off my Epson R-220 which has been through 2 GB's tried to swallow about 20 papers at once and when I pulled the papers out and tried to print again, it won't print. I tried all the utilities, but no go. Tomorrow I hope I can find an Epson that takes the same ink carts because I use the CIS (continuous inking system) I do know that the R-200, 220, 300 and 320 all use the same carts.
I have several hundred E-mails and my PM boxes are full, but I just don't have the time to answer each and every message. When time permits, I'll try to glance over all the messages and post on the boards an over all view of answers
Edit/Delete Message

So I can assume I'll be getting my invoice about the time the next group buy should be starting up then?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on December 17, 2008, 08:39:34 AM

J-Texas wrote on Tue, 16 December 2008 22:09

Well, while the natives are already restless...

any news on those "47" boards Mr. Terry?

We are now satisfied with the boards, and I understand that 50 of them are being made as we speak. News coming very soon.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on December 17, 2008, 10:00:24 AM

Dan-O wrote on Wed, 17 December 2008 08:36

CHANCE wrote on Tue, 16 December 2008 21:57

Hey guys
I won't be posting as much for the next three months as I am booked for a lot of all-nighters. Bummer, this means I won't be getting up with the sun for a while.
I just got an E-mail from the pack/shippers stating "Where are all the labels for about 30 of you guys" I checked and couldn't find them and after some research discovered that when I switched my E-mail from MAC OS-9 (classic) Outlook express to OS-X Mac mail, those 30 orders did not get imported into MAC mail. The shippers thought I was waiting on payment, but I never received the information. I logged back into my Outlook Express, and sure enough, there they were. I just now invoiced them. To top things off my Epson R-220 which has been through 2 GB's tried to swallow about 20 papers at once and when I pulled the papers out and tried to print again, it won't print. I tried all the utilities, but no go. Tomorrow I hope I can find an Epson that takes the same ink carts because I use the CIS (continuous inking system) I do know that the R-200, 220, 300 and 320 all use the same carts.
I have several hundred E-mails and my PM boxes are full, but I just don't have the time to answer each and every message. When time permits, I'll try to glance over all the messages and post on the boards an over all view of answers
Edit/Delete Message

So I can assume I'll be getting my invoice about the time the next group buy should be starting up then?

I don't want to come off un-grateful here. I'm completely appreciative of the incredible amount of work that goes into the group buys. But I've had this lingering fear in the back of my head that there might be a possibility that my invoice, and indeed my order and others, have been somehow misplaced, overlooked, or lost in a system somewhere somehow. Hearing about the labels and having ordered transformers and not hearing anything about my order (I have exchanged PM’s with Terry on this but still haven’t heard a thing from Oliver) reinforced that fear a bit.

My apologies.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on December 17, 2008, 11:00:15 AM

I hang thy head "more in sorrow than in anger".

It seems that my father signed up for the GB under his middle name (which he goes by). His card has his first name!

No 1200's for Christmas... oh the humanity!

EDIT for clarity: They're for him, not me... he's a recordist as well.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: okgb on December 17, 2008, 12:02:19 PM

I'd hope it doesn't take 3 months to get this cleared up

but the longer it goes on [ for some of us ]
the more one could imagine new problems or complications
creeping up

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on December 17, 2008, 12:14:15 PM

I was less bitching and more fishing for an easy solution.

Devin, didn't this exact same thing happen to you? How did you get it straight?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: sodderboy on December 17, 2008, 12:32:08 PM

It was so long ago, I actually forgot about it, so I'll just forget again for a while. . .
I am sure that a resourceful webmaster member of the group buy can implement auto email notification for the next go-around- even a dummy "you are not forgotten, stuff on a slow boat from Yengszchen now" or "stuff in a container until I get back from Catalina" every fortnight to keep the personal queries down. It would help, and can be had for the cost of a free mic or two.
Mike

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: QweziRider on December 17, 2008, 12:35:59 PM

Dan-O wrote on Wed, 17 December 2008 09:00

But I've had this lingering fear in the back of my head that there might be a possibility that my invoice, and indeed my order and others, have been somehow misplaced, overlooked, or lost in a system somewhere somehow.

I don't know what other conclusion to come to when I paid all invoices, hear of shipping within a couple days of paying being the normal operating mode, see no shipping progress, and don't get replies to simple inquiries.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on December 17, 2008, 02:23:47 PM

sodderboy wrote on Wed, 17 December 2008 12:32

It was so long ago, I actually forgot about it, so I'll just forget again for a while. . .
I am sure that a resourceful webmaster member of the group buy can implement auto email notification for the next go-around- even a dummy "you are not forgotten, stuff on a slow boat from Yengszchen now" or "stuff in a container until I get back from Catalina" every fortnight to keep the personal queries down. It would help, and can be had for the cost of a free mic or two.
Mike

Well the announcement for the TNC CS-1 made it out just fine so I’m sure this is possible. It would be a welcome courtesy IMHO.

Really, some reassurance other than new products for sale would have been more helpful to those still starring at red no's. Especially after being told there will most likely be no movement for 3 months and labels have been misplaced.

I have to say this one bothers me a little bit with all due respect.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on December 17, 2008, 02:43:35 PM

Thanks Dan.

First, the CS-1 is not a TNC item.

I am sending notification emails about the Lucas CS-1 myself, and have only sen t about 150 out of the 1000 possible, because there is just so incredibly much to do on all things.

CHANCE is still working very hard on getting out the remaining TNC shipments. It has been said before, but the job is HUGE, TREMENDOUS, more than CHANCE should have to deal with, especially as he is doing it "for nothing" (except up to this point, the fun and excitement) whilst he does have his normal studio duties that do pay his expenses.

Believe me, no one wants all shipments our more than we do, and especially more than CHANCE does.

Every day shipping is closer to completion. And if we do this ever again, we will find a way to build those shipping costs in to the initial payments, so there is none of this end shipping problem.

As for the transformers, those are coming through Oliver at TAB-F. He is working on those as quickly as possible as well, again at little recompense, and in the midst of his normal equipment and transformer manufacturing, sales and duties.

Mentioned above is the fact that the first series of upgrade electronics pcb's are almost ready.

Thanks so much to all for your patience...if this were a big corporation, things would have happened quicker, but at a MUCH, MUCH higher cost.

Remember, this is a Group Buy situation.

Best regards.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on December 17, 2008, 03:16:19 PM

Terry

First please believe that I have the utmost respect for what the group buy, and indeed what Chance is and has done for no compensation. I really do. I also completely understand he has a studio to run and the need to eat. I question none of this.

Tolerance for group buy procedures aside, my slight irritation was the announcement of missing labels and 3 month slow down. More so the missing labels as it touched a fear as started.

The Lucas CS-1 email came from what looked like a TNC@ address list so I assumed that there was a connection. It also came at the same time Chance made his announcement. It tipped the scale a bit and I reacted. I apologized, but it was a little much all at the same time.

Large corporation or not I always feel communication is the key to most anything no matter how big or small. I sent payment information for the transformers via email as requested thinking I would have some kind of response. It seemed that even thought the transformers them self might not have ready the ability to handle orders for them was. That’s all. Some confirmation that my payment info was even received would have helped.

Not trying to bust balls and I’m not in an uproar of any kind.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on December 17, 2008, 03:50:43 PM

All good.

I will personally try to follow up on both fronts and report here.

T

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on December 17, 2008, 04:13:41 PM

Ok, so the transformers haven't been sent yet. That's good to know, as I too was wondering. I'm in no hurry, especially with no mics or boards to go with them, but it's nice to know they aren't lost in the mail.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Barkley McKay on December 17, 2008, 04:49:20 PM

As a point of reference, has anybody in the UK had their shipment yet?

I am ready to pay the shipping invoice, and am writing this in case I too have been lost in the system. I of course also appreciate all the work involved.

Its a pain that the exchange rate is markedly less favourable than a few months ago, and my order is quite large/heavy. Shipping costs for those in the US will not be adversely affected, but for those abroad it could be quite a big deal.

I also appreciate there are logistical complications for overseas shipments, as Chance has stated.

barks

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on December 17, 2008, 05:16:54 PM

compasspnt wrote on Wed, 17 December 2008 05:39

J-Texas wrote on Tue, 16 December 2008 22:09

Well, while the natives are already restless...

any news on those "47" boards Mr. Terry?

We are now satisfied with the boards, and I understand that 50 of them are being made as we speak. News coming very soon.

I am VERY down for one of these!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on December 17, 2008, 06:33:15 PM

J-Texas wrote on Wed, 17 December 2008 08:00

I hang thy head "more in sorrow than in anger".

It seems that my father signed up for the GB under his middle name (which he goes by). His card has his first name!

No 1200's for Christmas... oh the humanity!

EDIT for clarity: They're for him, not me... he's a recordist as well.

Quote:

Devin, didn't this exact same thing happen to you? How did you get it straight?

Well, the only thing I "did" was post about it here as soon as Chance had mentioned that something similar had happened and caused a problem.

However, I suspect that in my case, it was never really an issue, because while the first names were different on the payment and shipping info, everything else (most importantly the address) was identical.

So:
--Mark D Knutson
--123 Somewhere Street
--Anytown, OR

Pays for an order shipped to:
--Devin Knutson
--123 Somewhere Street
--Anytown, OR

Is a whole huge lot different than:
--John Q. Somebody
--123 Somewhere Street
--Anytown, OR

Paying for an order shipped to:
--Alfred Somebody Else
--456 Nowhere Lane
--Commonburg, PA

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on December 17, 2008, 06:49:50 PM

Folks, I just want to reiterate something here,

After re-reading Chance's comment above, I find that nowhere does he say he's not going to do anything for three months.

What he says is that he's booked for a lot of all nighters, and won't be on the boards AS MUCH.

I am unable to see where the inference that everything else will necessarily be placed on indefinite hold is coming from.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on December 17, 2008, 06:54:15 PM

No offense dude, but I think the "Knutson" part gave it away!

What's up with your address? "Anytown", "Somebody". I thought "Thompson" was generic!

Shirley, I'm not serious.

Yeah, his billing and shipping addresses are the same too, so... fingers are crossed.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on December 17, 2008, 07:13:21 PM

J-Texas wrote on Wed, 17 December 2008 15:54

No offense dude, but I think the "Knutson" part gave it away!

I am descended of royalty (as far as you know). Nothing you could say say would be as offensive as NOT being a Knutson. A proud name, indeed. (and there are probably a lot more of us than is generally known). A brief read through the history of Europe will answer the question of how exactly I ended up with a Gaelic first name and a Norwegian Surname.

Quote:

What's up with your address? "Anytown", "Somebody". I thought "Thompson" was generic!

Shirley, I'm not serious.

Well, over a decade of writing and testing online payment systems has taught me that if you're going to place a test order, make damn sure that there is NO possibility that it might be confused for a real order, even if your fulfillment house is staffed by overseas third grade dropouts who can't read.

One of my alter-egos is named "Testy Testerson".

...and don't call me Shirl-- oh.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: BQ on December 18, 2008, 05:37:17 AM

Barkley McKay wrote on Wed, 17 December 2008 16:49

As a point of reference, has anybody in the UK had their shipment yet?

I am ready to pay the shipping invoice, and am writing this in case I too have been lost in the system. I of course also appreciate all the work involved.

I am also in the UK, and also don't have a shipping invoice available yet.

This is not a complaint, just a data point for Barks...

-Brendan

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Ozzy on December 18, 2008, 06:25:34 AM

Ditto.

I'm in the UK and no shipping invoice too.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Hallams on December 18, 2008, 06:39:23 AM

Not wanting to hastle, just wondering as my invoice was paid two weeks after the shipping first started and still the red No for shipment on the user console??

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on December 18, 2008, 07:09:51 AM

Hallams wrote on Thu, 18 December 2008 03:39

Not wanting to hastle, just wondering as my invoice was paid two weeks after the shipping first started and still the red No for shipment on the user console??

Hey Chris, yours was one of the ones that was lost. It should ship in the next day or so. My E-mail is working again. Long night session. Now I can hit the sheets.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Hallams on December 18, 2008, 07:24:04 AM

Good to know. Thanks for clearing that up, and for all your work for our benefit. I thought there may have been a spanner in the works somewhere, and I really don't mind the wait.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: matti on December 18, 2008, 07:37:13 PM

How are the possible transistor kits for 81 going?
( Actually Im just testing the notifications of this thread )

Matti

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on December 18, 2008, 09:54:45 PM

I am guessing that we are more than 2/3 through this. Probably more like 3/4.
I can tell, because remember when I said that "I will put all the orders with no shipping info at the end?" Well I got 3 of them today, all packed and ready to go, but no ship info. We'll take care of those after all you guys WITH ship info are shipped. Been REAL busy.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: organica on December 18, 2008, 10:43:35 PM

akaicC- take all the time you need - thx !

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: against88 on December 19, 2008, 08:58:07 AM

hopefully this will help some of you guys. (or make you guys more jealous)

i got my first green yes last week. it took me a day to realize amex wasn't accepted, so i paid with mastercard. within a day i received an email confirmation. when i checked the user console, i hadn't received my second green yes. i was concerned because of the lack of green yes's. but today (6 days after payment confirmation) i got an email from fedex stating that my packages had shipped out 3 days ago and were scheduled for delivery tomorrow! user console still says shipping invoice paid: NO, items shipped: NO.

that's my experience so far.
unfortunately i'm starting a session tomorrow and i'll probably be gone by the time they arrive and probably won't be able to try them out on the drum tracking =(

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Rod Affleck on December 19, 2008, 09:14:01 AM

Hallams wrote on Thu, 18 December 2008 08:24

Good to know. Thanks for clearing that up, and for all your work for our benefit. I thought there may have been a spanner in the works somewhere, and I really don't mind the wait.

Hopefully this is what happened to me too. I don't really mind the wait either, but having paid my invoice eight weeks ago I'm pretty certain that something went awry somewhere.

I'm just glad it's not me organizing this whole thing or you'd all be getting your microphones in another three or four years

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on December 19, 2008, 09:27:21 AM

against88 wrote on Fri, 19 December 2008 08:58

hopefully this will help some of you guys. (or make you guys more jealous)

i got my first green yes last week. it took me a day to realize amex wasn't accepted, so i paid with mastercard. within a day i received an email confirmation. when i checked the user console, i hadn't received my second green yes. i was concerned because of the lack of green yes's. but today (6 days after payment confirmation) i got an email from fedex stating that my packages had shipped out 3 days ago and were scheduled for delivery tomorrow! user console still says shipping invoice paid: NO, items shipped: NO.

that's my experience so far.
unfortunately i'm starting a session tomorrow and i'll probably be gone by the time they arrive and probably won't be able to try them out on the drum tracking =(

Amex not accepted? Why is that? FedEx accepts Amex. I'd like to use company Amex for my shippment. Is it the company packing the shippments that dosen't accept Amex?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: mattrussell on December 19, 2008, 09:46:27 AM

my shipping invoice turned green today and i paid it immediately. thanks chance!!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TB-AV on December 19, 2008, 12:42:20 PM

"Is it the company packing the shippments that dosen't accept Amex?"

It's the payment system that Chance and Randy set up for us.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: theo mack on December 19, 2008, 03:51:33 PM

ACM 310 is Rocking!!

Thanks Chance.
My box came in today.

Quick tests on mando, nylon string guitar sound great. Smooth and sweet top with no zingy thing.

I wish I had ordered more.

PS: My 2 year old saw the tube glowing and said, "WOW Magic Fire".
I said "yup."

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on December 19, 2008, 07:15:10 PM

CHANCE wrote on Thu, 18 December 2008 18:54

I am guessing that we are more than 2/3 through this. Probably more like 3/4.
I can tell, because remember when I said that "I will put all the orders with no shipping info at the end?" Well I got 3 of them today, all packed and ready to go, but no ship info. We'll take care of those after all you guys WITH ship info are shipped. Been REAL busy.

thanks for the update Chance.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on December 20, 2008, 10:23:54 AM

TB-AV wrote on Fri, 19 December 2008 12:42

"Is it the company packing the shippments that dosen't accept Amex?"

It's the payment system that Chance and Randy set up for us.

Drag. I was hoping to use Amex as they have a cash bach program with FedEx. Pretty decent one too. I suppose I would have know this but I used the on-line check to pay the first invoice.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: A.J. on December 20, 2008, 12:35:47 PM

The eagle has landed.

I got my green YES on Sunday evening. Paid shipping Monday morning, received the FedEx tracking Tuesday and just got a Saturday delivery.

You've done this before, haven't ya

Thanks again Chance. I haven't even opened the boxes, but I wanted to post here first to tell you how much I appreciate your hard work. I can't begin to imagine taking care of all this. Especially while still running sessions and being so close to the holidays. It's a daunting task and I want to let you know your persistence and enviable grace under pressure has not gone unnoticed or unappreciated.

Best Regards,

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Leslie Hammond on December 20, 2008, 01:38:31 PM

A.J. wrote on Sat, 20 December 2008 11:35

The eagle has landed.

I got my green YES on Sunday evening. Paid shipping Monday morning, received the FedEx tracking Tuesday and just got a Saturday delivery.

Ya, and I just saw bigfoot.

He sang this: http://drop.io/UserConsoleTheme/asset/nonono

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: QweziRider on December 20, 2008, 02:11:01 PM

CHANCE wrote on Thu, 18 December 2008 04:09

Hey Chris, yours was one of the ones that was lost. It should ship in the next day or so. My E-mail is working again. Long night session. Now I can hit the sheets.

Is it possible to know if mine was also in one of the lost ones, please?

Thank you.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on December 20, 2008, 09:15:10 PM

YES!

Paid in full! WOOHOO!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Paul G on December 20, 2008, 09:53:29 PM

theo mack wrote on Fri, 19 December 2008 15:51

ACM 310 is Rocking!!

Thanks Chance.
My box came in today.

Quick tests on mando, nylon string guitar sound great. Smooth and sweet top with no zingy thing.

I wish I had ordered more.

PS: My 2 year old saw the tube glowing and said, "WOW Magic Fire".
I said "yup."
Glad to hear you like the 310, Theo. Mine should be here in a week. Thanks.

Paul

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: NelsonL on December 21, 2008, 06:30:21 AM

willowhaus wrote on Sat, 20 December 2008 18:15

YES!

Paid in full! WOOHOO!

Same here!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Hallams on December 21, 2008, 06:25:27 PM

Still wondering if the user console shows when an item is sent.

Shipping Invoice Available:   YES
Shipping Invoice Paid:   YES
Items Shipped:   NO

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: recordinghacks on December 21, 2008, 07:33:14 PM

Two of my ACMP-84s were DOA.

I fixed the first one by changing the fuse. (Spares are included.)

But #3 of 4 seems to be truly dead. I tested it with a known-good power cable and a known-good fuse but it won't power up: no red LED, no light on the meter. I didn't test whether it passes signal -- I can do that if necessary.

I'm not in a hurry, but I would like to figure out what my repair/replacement options are. I'm happy to wait until all the original orders have been shipped.

By the way, contrary to what a couple folks have suggested, there is a written warranty on these preamps. This is in the manual:

TNC Audio guarantees the microphone preamplifier to the original purchaser for a period of one year (subject to the date of the original invoice). Customer is responsible for any transportation required, but for one year, TNC wil be responsible for mending or replacing any unit found to be defective (but not for units found to be abused or improperly utilised).

Oh, BTW, all power supply switches were set to 115 -- I did check this before plugging anything in, and I toggled the switch a few times on the unit that isn't working, to no avail.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on December 21, 2008, 09:44:08 PM

Hey Matt we'll get this taken care of. All I ask Is to wait till this shipping madness is finished.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on December 22, 2008, 01:35:17 PM

Hallams wrote on Sun, 21 December 2008 17:25

Still wondering if the user console shows when an item is sent.

Shipping Invoice Available:   YES
Shipping Invoice Paid:   YES
Items Shipped:   NO

FWIW - Mine still says "NO" and I've been enjoying my loot for some time now.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on December 22, 2008, 02:46:09 PM

recordinghacks wrote on Sun, 21 December 2008 19:33

Two of my ACMP-84s were DOA.

I fixed the first one by changing the fuse. (Spares are included.)

But #3 of 4 seems to be truly dead. I tested it with a known-good power cable and a known-good fuse but it won't power up: no red LED, no light on the meter. I didn't test whether it passes signal -- I can do that if necessary.

I'm not in a hurry, but I would like to figure out what my repair/replacement options are. I'm happy to wait until all the original orders have been shipped.

By the way, contrary to what a couple folks have suggested, there is a written warranty on these preamps. This is in the manual:

TNC Audio guarantees the microphone preamplifier to the original purchaser for a period of one year (subject to the date of the original invoice). Customer is responsible for any transportation required, but for one year, TNC wil be responsible for mending or replacing any unit found to be defective (but not for units found to be abused or improperly utilised).

Oh, BTW, all power supply switches were set to 115 -- I did check this before plugging anything in, and I toggled the switch a few times on the unit that isn't working, to no avail.

This would mean all the buzzing, popping, and humming units are under TNC warranty. Will TNC be hiring a tech for the repairs, sending out repair kits, or honoring a repair bill from a tech of our choice? Shipping excluded.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: redddog on December 22, 2008, 04:03:19 PM

Dan-O wrote on Mon, 22 December 2008 13:46

This would mean all the buzzing, popping, and humming units are under TNC warranty. Will TNC be hiring a tech for the repairs, sending out repair kits, or honoring a repair bill from a tech of our choice? Shipping excluded.

Right. That, my friend, is a dream.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on December 22, 2008, 04:23:45 PM

redddog wrote on Mon, 22 December 2008 16:03

Dan-O wrote on Mon, 22 December 2008 13:46

This would mean all the buzzing, popping, and humming units are under TNC warranty. Will TNC be hiring a tech for the repairs, sending out repair kits, or honoring a repair bill from a tech of our choice? Shipping excluded.

Right. That, my friend, is a dream.

Is it?

I dream big.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Hallams on December 22, 2008, 06:05:59 PM

J-Texas wrote on Tue, 23 December 2008 05:35

Hallams wrote on Sun, 21 December 2008 17:25

Still wondering if the user console shows when an item is sent.

Shipping Invoice Available:   YES
Shipping Invoice Paid:   YES
Items Shipped:   NO

FWIW - Mine still says "NO" and I've been enjoying my loot for some time now.

Ok. Thanks

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on December 22, 2008, 09:47:34 PM

Hallams wrote on Mon, 22 December 2008 15:05

J-Texas wrote on Tue, 23 December 2008 05:35

Hallams wrote on Sun, 21 December 2008 17:25

Still wondering if the user console shows when an item is sent.

Shipping Invoice Available:   YES
Shipping Invoice Paid:   YES
Items Shipped:   NO

FWIW - Mine still says "NO" and I've been enjoying my loot for some time now.

Ok. Thanks

Hay Chris. look on your user console the green and red have been changed. They're on their way. USPS is totally messed up. They had to repack your order into 4 boxes, and as I was filling out and printing the labels (16 total), The USPS times out and I have to log in again and start over. THEN when I go to "print and pay", it wouldn't print (but I still got charged $365.96) I then went from Fire fox to Safari, went through filling out the 16 pages again and paid again but looking at the labels, they say "shipping cancelled"
I looked at my bank statement and they charged me $365.96 three times. Now I must wait 10 days to receive the 2 unused paymentsof $365.96 each. They said even though the label says cancelled, it's still OK. Fingers are crossed, but they're on their way.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: against88 on December 23, 2008, 01:51:57 AM

how about this...i got my stuff a few days ago...

Shipping Invoice Available:    YES
Shipping Invoice Paid:    NO
Items Shipped:    YES

i SWEAR i paid! =)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: NelsonL on December 23, 2008, 03:10:31 AM

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 22 December 2008 18:47

Hallams wrote on Mon, 22 December 2008 15:05

J-Texas wrote on Tue, 23 December 2008 05:35

Hallams wrote on Sun, 21 December 2008 17:25

Still wondering if the user console shows when an item is sent.

Shipping Invoice Available:   YES
Shipping Invoice Paid:   YES
Items Shipped:   NO

FWIW - Mine still says "NO" and I've been enjoying my loot for some time now.

Ok. Thanks

Hay Chris. look on your user console the green and red have been changed. They're on their way. USPS is totally messed up. They had to repack your order into 4 boxes, and as I was filling out and printing the labels (16 total), The USPS times out and I have to log in again and start over. THEN when I go to "print and pay", it wouldn't print (but I still got charged $365.96) I then went from Fire fox to Safari, went through filling out the 16 pages again and paid again but looking at the labels, they say "shipping cancelled"
I looked at my bank statement and they charged me $365.96 three times. Now I must wait 10 days to receive the 2 unused paymentsof $365.96 each. They said even though the label says cancelled, it's still OK. Fingers are crossed, but they're on their way.

If it were me, I'm afraid I might have broken something dealing with that.

Time for a name change-- I dub thee:

Saint Chance

Seriously, thank you for all your hard work, patience and generosity-- you seem to have donned your santa suit many many months in advance.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on December 23, 2008, 06:02:23 AM

Dan-O wrote on Mon, 22 December 2008 14:46

This would mean all the buzzing, popping, and humming units are under TNC warranty. Will TNC be hiring a tech for the repairs, sending out repair kits, or honoring a repair bill from a tech of our choice? Shipping excluded.

I think setting expectations too high in this area could endanger group buys in the future.
There is no profit margin in this to absorb a lot of warranty expense.

On the other hand, being a group buy, with quite a few techy people participating, there is little chance of anyone being stuck with a bad product. We will work together to solve whatever problems exist.

I'm fairly certain that anyone with a problem they can't correct themselves (with assistance from the board) could find someone here willing to do the repair for them or willing to buy a bad unit from them.

We are participating in the birth of a brand here. Stockholders at least in spirit.

Don't worry, it's all gonna be OK.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Hallams on December 23, 2008, 06:57:51 AM

CHANCE wrote on Tue, 23 December 2008 13:47

Hallams wrote on Mon, 22 December 2008 15:05

J-Texas wrote on Tue, 23 December 2008 05:35

Hallams wrote on Sun, 21 December 2008 17:25

Still wondering if the user console shows when an item is sent.

Shipping Invoice Available:   YES
Shipping Invoice Paid:   YES
Items Shipped:   NO

FWIW - Mine still says "NO" and I've been enjoying my loot for some time now.

Ok. Thanks

Hay Chris. look on your user console the green and red have been changed. They're on their way. USPS is totally messed up. They had to repack your order into 4 boxes, and as I was filling out and printing the labels (16 total), The USPS times out and I have to log in again and start over. THEN when I go to "print and pay", it wouldn't print (but I still got charged $365.96) I then went from Fire fox to Safari, went through filling out the 16 pages again and paid again but looking at the labels, they say "shipping cancelled"
I looked at my bank statement and they charged me $365.96 three times. Now I must wait 10 days to receive the 2 unused paymentsof $365.96 each. They said even though the label says cancelled, it's still OK. Fingers are crossed, but they're on their way.

Thanks for following through. What a hassle for you, being charged 3 times! For your sake i hope this sort of thing doesn't happen with any other international orders. Maybe we should get dguidry to write USPS one of those fancy legal letters.

Now the console reads
Shipping Invoice Available:   YES
Shipping Invoice Paid:   NO
Items Shipped: Yes
Happy Christmas everyone!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on December 23, 2008, 10:29:45 AM

Bill_Urick wrote on Tue, 23 December 2008 11:02

Dan-O wrote on Mon, 22 December 2008 14:46

This would mean all the buzzing, popping, and humming units are under TNC warranty. Will TNC be hiring a tech for the repairs, sending out repair kits, or honoring a repair bill from a tech of our choice? Shipping excluded.

I think setting expectations too high in this area could endanger group buys in the future.
There is no profit margin in this to absorb a lot of warranty expense.

i had this EXACT same thought upon reading that. remember, these guys are seriously hauling ass on this project. and if 1 person has a problem, so do many others-communally, im sure resources will get pooled, and we can all get our stuff fixed/upgraded/etc.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: redddog on December 23, 2008, 10:48:45 AM

I, too, am certain that there will be a concerted effort to get these things right.

Like many have said, we are the Beta testers. It's why these were so cheap. We have been offered a discount to help with Quality Control.

That's how I'm looking at it.

But we have to wait until Chance gets through the nightmare of logistical hell he's in at the moment. When he's done getting these out to everyone, we'll be able to focus on the fixes. But until then, we need to suss this stuff out on our own.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on December 23, 2008, 06:38:36 PM

Bill_Urick wrote on Tue, 23 December 2008 06:02

Dan-O wrote on Mon, 22 December 2008 14:46

This would mean all the buzzing, popping, and humming units are under TNC warranty. Will TNC be hiring a tech for the repairs, sending out repair kits, or honoring a repair bill from a tech of our choice? Shipping excluded.

I think setting expectations too high in this area could endanger group buys in the future.
There is no profit margin in this to absorb a lot of warranty expense.

On the other hand, being a group buy, with quite a few techy people participating, there is little chance of anyone being stuck with a bad product. We will work together to solve whatever problems exist.

I'm fairly certain that anyone with a problem they can't correct themselves (with assistance from the board) could find someone here willing to do the repair for them or willing to buy a bad unit from them.

We are participating in the birth of a brand here. Stockholders at least in spirit.

Don't worry, it's all gonna be OK.

If you offer a warranty you offer a warranty. Period. We all risk. On both sides.

Yes, there many great tech people on this board who are extremely helpful and I applaud them continually. They have helped me in the past and I'm grateful. However their help, what ever it maybe, still doesn't cover the added expense involved. That's including my time. A warranty is a warranty and that's why they're offered.

A far as working together to solve problems, that's all fine and dandy, until it's you who have to correct a problem(s) with 18 preamps that haven't even arrived yet. Will you be flying down to help me Bill? Can I send you the peramps? I would hesitate on offering up others in the name of community and togetherness. It reads well though.

Participating in the "birth of a brand name" is exactly what interested me in the first place BTW. Still dose. But "buying or even buying back bad units" doesn't really fit the model I was planning for these however. Such is my risk.

Quote:

i had this EXACT same thought upon reading that. remember, these guys are seriously hauling ass on this project. and if 1 person has a problem, so do many others-communally, im sure resources will get pooled, and we can all get our stuff fixed/upgraded/etc.

I have the utmost respect for the efforts in this group buy. It's truly phenomenal.

How can you be sure of this resource pool? The corrections for the problems with the product have already been posted along with a list of parts. Is this the pool you're referring too?

redddog wrote on Tue, 23 December 2008 10:48

I, too, am certain that there will be a concerted effort to get these things right.

Like many have said, we are the Beta testers. It's why these were so cheap. We have been offered a discount to help with Quality Control.

That's how I'm looking at it.

But we have to wait until Chance gets through the nightmare of logistical hell he's in at the moment. When he's done getting these out to everyone, we'll be able to focus on the fixes. But until then, we need to suss this stuff out on our own.

I don't really see it that way. Not with a warranty in place. That implies a degree of quality control effort from the supplier side. As stated in the warranty.

Beta test, sure, ok fine.

I'm not asking for Chance or any others to drop what they're
doing and get on top of this right now. The warranty was brought up and I'm commenting on it. It would have been brought up anyway as it was in the manual made available for download. I was waiting for my shipment and testing before I made my inquiry as I'm sure some, if not all of my units will have one or more of the problems.

I also understand people getting a little defensive about a disparaging word or two concerning the group buy.

This all might sound "anti-community" to you, but I assure you it isn't. I'm a HUGE believer in community. I'm also a believer that business done in that community can be and should be good business. It should benefit all if done well.

I'm waiting patiently like everyone else. But I can and will comment. That's part of a community.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on December 24, 2008, 11:05:33 AM

126 pages of personal shipping news does NOT a compelling thread make......

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on December 24, 2008, 11:31:16 AM

I will soon, once all shipping is sorted out and completed, go back and delete these "my shipping" posts.

But even that will be a full time job...

Gettin' kinda gs-ey 'round here...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Barkley McKay on December 24, 2008, 11:47:24 AM

Its probably been mentioned before, but I'd like to add that we all knew (and Chance was open about this) that there would be a risk involved with the GB.

I see all this as a major learning curve.
If the preamps/eq's have issues, then I'll learn how to fix them. I am kind of excited about the challenge, and there are extremely benevolent individuals (zmix et al) who are contributing and helping enormously with my education in this regard.

I've already taught myself how to trouble shoot the circuits on my A&H analogue desk which I bought as a dead duck, do -10 to +4 mods, replace faders, opamp chips etc.

This forum should have Guild Status, all of this and everything else has made me such a better engineer.

barks

still NO btw

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TB-AV on December 24, 2008, 12:10:35 PM

On a somewhat positive note towards learning what makes these things tick...

With respect to low level hum in the 73 that can not be removed by rotating the transformer:

Someone in another forum has posted that he has made a shield that can be installed with only a screw driver. This is supposed to knock down the transformer hum.

Unfortunately he is not giving up any specific info but rather selling a pre-formed part.

I have tried to read back through threads to see if there was anything I could glean.

All I can tell is that early on he was focused on the inductor as a component to shield ( although someone else tried that to no avail ). He was focused on the power transformer and he mentioned the power board.

Tom B

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on December 24, 2008, 01:41:49 PM

TB-AV wrote on Wed, 24 December 2008 11:10

On a somewhat positive note towards learning what makes these things tick...

With respect to low level hum in the 73 that can not be removed by rotating the transformer:

Someone in another forum has posted that he has made a shield that can be installed with only a screw driver. This is supposed to knock down the transformer hum.

Unfortunately he is not giving up any specific info but rather selling a pre-formed part.

I have tried to read back through threads to see if there was anything I could glean.

All I can tell is that early on he was focused on the inductor as a component to shield ( although someone else tried that to no avail ). He was focused on the power transformer and he mentioned the power board.

Tom B

What a dick.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on December 24, 2008, 01:55:23 PM

J-Texas wrote on Wed, 24 December 2008 13:41

TB-AV wrote on Wed, 24 December 2008 11:10

On a somewhat positive note towards learning what makes these things tick...

With respect to low level hum in the 73 that can not be removed by rotating the transformer:

Someone in another forum has posted that he has made a shield that can be installed with only a screw driver. This is supposed to knock down the transformer hum.

Unfortunately he is not giving up any specific info but rather selling a pre-formed part.

I have tried to read back through threads to see if there was anything I could glean.

All I can tell is that early on he was focused on the inductor as a component to shield ( although someone else tried that to no avail ). He was focused on the power transformer and he mentioned the power board.

Tom B

What a dick.

Though I could be wrong I think you meant to post that about me didn't you? Not Tom right? I don't want anyone pointing dicks where they should be pointed.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on December 24, 2008, 02:35:27 PM

Hey I thought I was the dick.

Don't be stealing my fire now.....

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on December 24, 2008, 02:53:06 PM

I would suspect that the penile appendage in question is in fact the one trying to make a profit by not telling everyone how he managed to correct the issue.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on December 24, 2008, 03:36:29 PM

Devin Knutson wrote on Wed, 24 December 2008 14:53

I would suspect that the penile appendage in question is in fact the one trying to make a profit by not telling everyone how he managed to correct the issue.

Ahh, you could be so right. I'm not familiar with the thread he mentioned so I didn't realize someone was withholding info for $$.

Les Ismore:

Not trying to steal anyone's fire. If the flame is desired, the flame shall be yours.

Just FYI here, I just received my Hakko 936 soldering station
purchased specifically for the job of repairing the pre's and reconfiguring my patchbays which is sorely over due. I had the opportunity to feel the difference at a friends bench from the crap-ola I've been using. Should make things a little easier here and there.

The De-soldering gun is a little on the expensive side though. Is there something comparable and less expensive anyone could recommend?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on December 24, 2008, 04:06:29 PM

Dan-O wrote on Wed, 24 December 2008 12:55

Though I could be wrong I think you meant to post that about me didn't you? Not Tom right? I don't want anyone pointing dicks where they should be pointed.

What would have given you that idea? EDIT, to remove any intention of sarcasm. Really? What would have given you that idea?

Ps. If you agree the dicks should be pointed, then why wouldn't you want anyone pointing them?

MERRY CHRISTMAS DAN-O. I mean that most sincerely.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TB-AV on December 24, 2008, 04:46:07 PM

"The De-soldering gun is a little on the expensive side though. Is there something comparable and less expensive anyone could recommend?"

I used de-soldering braid and a solder sucker on my 73. Both from RadioShack. Also I think my Hakko was set to 350-F if that helps. I never saw any indication that a solder pad might lift.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on December 24, 2008, 04:47:13 PM

J-Texas wrote on Wed, 24 December 2008 16:06

Dan-O wrote on Wed, 24 December 2008 12:55

Though I could be wrong I think you meant to post that about me didn't you? Not Tom right? I don't want anyone pointing dicks where they should be pointed.

What would have given you that idea? EDIT, to remove any intention of sarcasm. Really? What would have given you that idea?

Ps. If you agree the dicks should be pointed, then why wouldn't you want anyone pointing them?

MERRY CHRISTMAS DAN-O. I mean that most sincerely.

Actually that should have read " I don't want anyone pointing dicks where they SHOULDN'T be pointed".

However, who said I agreed that they should pointed? I was simply stating that if they were in fact being pointed they should be pointed correctly. Correctly meaning the most likely candidate for the pointing due to the contrary nature of the content. What?

Perhaps I'm missing your edited sarcasm here though. Not unlikely.

I'm on the 4th night of Hanukkah, but I accept your seasons good wishes and send you mine in return. Success to you in the new year as well.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on December 24, 2008, 04:49:04 PM

TB-AV wrote on Wed, 24 December 2008 16:46

"The De-soldering gun is a little on the expensive side though. Is there something comparable and less expensive anyone could recommend?"

I used de-soldering braid and a solder sucker on my 73. Both from RadioShack. Also I think my Hakko was set to 350-F if that helps. I never saw any indication that a solder pad might lift.

This dose help. Thank you. But why so low on the Hakko?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TB-AV on December 24, 2008, 04:54:34 PM

I'm going from memory on that temp. I had no idea what it would take to lift a solder pad and just dialed up the temp to the lowest working temp possible.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on December 24, 2008, 06:34:27 PM

I see. Thanks again.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on December 24, 2008, 07:19:57 PM

If anyone is bored, tonight at 7pm (pacific time) I'll be recording the music portion of a church service again (annual gig) with an outstanding band "2 or more" using all TnC mics except for vox (their decision). The choir will be the 310's, 2's on guitars, and 200 on bass. It will be webcast http://www.calvaryccv.org click on live services

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: organica on December 25, 2008, 12:40:27 AM

zmix wrote on Wed, 24 December 2008 11:05

126 pages of personal shipping news does NOT a compelling thread make......

since the name of this thread is HERE WE GO AGAIN .... in a big way , it functions as advertised .

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: David R. on December 26, 2008, 08:06:02 PM

Suggestion for the modifications - new transformers or boards or whatever could come with a sticker so you can identify when a mic or pre has been upgrade/modified.

Just a thought.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on December 26, 2008, 08:15:28 PM

I have been thinking that as well, thanks.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Jeff Chitouras on December 27, 2008, 02:33:16 AM

zmix wrote on Tue, 04 November 2008 08:21

You will need 4 each of the BC461-6 and 4 each of the BC441-6 for every TnC-81 that you have.

Chuck, would you know if these output transistor changes for the 81 could also apply to the 84 and/or 73 versions?

Thanks.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on December 27, 2008, 06:28:06 PM

Jeff Chitouras wrote on Sat, 27 December 2008 02:33

zmix wrote on Tue, 04 November 2008 08:21

You will need 4 each of the BC461-6 and 4 each of the BC441-6 for every TnC-81 that you have.

Chuck, would you know if these output transistor changes for the 81 could also apply to the 84 and/or 73 versions?

Thanks.

Jeff,

The 84 and 73 use a different EQ buffer amp than the 81, and I have found no oscillation problems in them.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: okgb on December 28, 2008, 08:05:33 AM

Faster than i thought
[ for someone to make the corrections and them to start selling it ,
bit of a kick in the crotch really ,
but i'm sure they'll sell us these ones on the next buy ,
may be easier to do that then wiggle any replacement parts
out of them , double Ha !]

Before i even have mine , an improved version , check it

http://www.goldenagemusic.se/goldenageproject/uk/index.htm

http://www.prodigy-pro.com/diy/index.php?topic=31105.0

shipping invoice update ?

And certainly any of the psu / inductor shielding won't hurt
[ other than the effort ] allot of gear have external supplies
a grp buy on spare mic supply boxes would do the trick , ha !
[ any spare mic supply boxes around ? ]

O.k. update someone from Europe is saying the GA prototype
was around at the time of acm ordering , .............
Wonder who they first made these for ?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: A.J. on December 28, 2008, 01:49:38 PM

Hi All,

When my preamps arrived I found that I had a DOA ACMP73. It wouldn't power up at all so I checked the fuse first, but it was fine. I finally had time today to open up both my working one and this one and found that a couple of wires had been soldered incorrectly to the power selector (115 vs 230).

I'm not a super technical guy, but luckily I can distinguish colors (mostly) and solder (sorta).

Anyway, just letting everyone know in case something similar occurs.

Best,

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on December 28, 2008, 02:40:05 PM

So AJ, that fixed it OK?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: okgb on December 28, 2008, 03:16:46 PM

Sounds like it wasn't even checked , wasn't
that the reason for one of the delays that 100
of them didn't pass QC ?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: A.J. on December 28, 2008, 03:44:17 PM

compasspnt wrote on Sun, 28 December 2008 14:40

So AJ, that fixed it OK?

Yes, it's fine now. Just tracked some bass through it and it sounds great.

Best,

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on December 28, 2008, 04:57:21 PM

A.J. wrote on Sun, 28 December 2008 10:49

Hi All,

When my preamps arrived I found that I had a DOA ACMP73. It wouldn't power up at all so I checked the fuse first, but it was fine. I finally had time today to open up both my working one and this one and found that a couple of wires had been soldered incorrectly to the power selector (115 vs 230).

I'm not a super technical guy, but luckily I can distinguish colors (mostly) and solder (sorta).

Anyway, just letting everyone know in case something similar occurs.

Best,

Hey AJ.
If it was DOA, I'll replace it. All I ask is if you could wait just a little longer until everyones order gets shipped

edit:
I see you fixed it. Great

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: A.J. on December 28, 2008, 05:03:46 PM

CHANCE wrote on Sun, 28 December 2008 16:57

Hey AJ.
If it was DOA, I'll replace it. All I ask is if you could wait just a little longer until everyones order gets shipped

Oh no worries! It's all fixed. just a few wires crossed... I just wanted to let people know to pop 'em open if they aren't powering up right away. I took a few pics on my phone if you'd like me to post here. All I did was check out my working 73, noticed some wires were soldered to the wrong posts, and rewired.

It seems perfectly fine now. I'm tracking with it this afternoon and it sound great.

Best,

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on December 28, 2008, 06:50:38 PM

Man am I sick of USPS!! When I used their calculator to give all you international guys your ship charges, it gave a much lower quote than when I go to print the labels. You all trusted me with your money for this long so I am shipping anyway and trusting you all for the balance which will show when you log in. USPS is UNBELIEVABLE!! Here is an example

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on December 28, 2008, 06:52:04 PM

CHANCE wrote on Sun, 28 December 2008 15:50

Man am I sick of USPS!! When I used their calculator to give all you international guys your ship charges, it gave a much lower quote than when I go to print the labels. You all trusted me with your money for this long so I am shipping anyway and trusting you all for the balance which will show when you log in. USPS is UNBELIEVABLE!! Here is an example

14 lbs 4oz and I have exceeded the weight limit?? Sheesh!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: okgb on December 28, 2008, 07:45:39 PM

I Appreciate that , thanks

Does it mean too much weight for a certain size or type of package and doesn't automaticaly change ?

I know it's too late , unless you want to experiment ,
but someone a while back did mention fedex now including the brokerage fee , which was one of the big hassles before .

Digikey now has this arrangement with UPS , but i don't imagine that's for everyone

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Rail Jon Rogut on December 28, 2008, 08:24:13 PM

CHANCE wrote on Sun, 28 December 2008 15:50

Man am I sick of USPS!! When I used their calculator to give all you international guys your ship charges, it gave a much lower quote than when I go to print the labels. You all trusted me with your money for this long so I am shipping anyway and trusting you all for the balance which will show when you log in. USPS is UNBELIEVABLE!! Here is an example

http://www.endicia.com/

Rail

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on December 28, 2008, 08:40:13 PM

Hey THANKS! I'll have to check this out. ANYTHING is better than the USPS online labels.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on December 28, 2008, 11:38:36 PM

What can you expect from Government?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: wwittman on December 29, 2008, 01:41:58 AM

compasspnt wrote on Sun, 28 December 2008 23:38

What can you expect from Government?

Hoover Dam
landing on the moon
the manhattan project
highway system

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on December 29, 2008, 02:14:56 AM

wwittman wrote on Sun, 28 December 2008 22:41

compasspnt wrote on Sun, 28 December 2008 23:38

What can you expect from Government?

Hoover Dam
landing on the moon
the manhattan project
highway system

All right, but apart from the sanitation, the medicine, education, wine, public order, irrigation, roads, a fresh water system, and public health, what have the Romans ever really done for us?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Paul G on December 29, 2008, 08:53:48 AM

wwittman wrote on Mon, 29 December 2008 01:41

compasspnt wrote on Sun, 28 December 2008 23:38

What can you expect from Government?

Hoover Dam
landing on the moon
the manhattan project
highway system

And every one of them over budget! LOL

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on December 29, 2008, 11:18:38 AM

Devin Knutson wrote on Mon, 29 December 2008 02:14

wwittman wrote on Sun, 28 December 2008 22:41

compasspnt wrote on Sun, 28 December 2008 23:38

What can you expect from Government?

Hoover Dam
landing on the moon
the manhattan project
highway system

All right, but apart from the sanitation, the medicine, education, wine, public order, irrigation, roads, a fresh water system, and public health, what have the Romans ever really done for us?

This discussion belongs over at the "Web of Pro Sound".

This is the "Pro Sound Web"

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Craig Patterson on December 29, 2008, 01:22:22 PM

Paul G wrote on Mon, 29 December 2008 06:53

wwittman wrote on Mon, 29 December 2008 01:41

compasspnt wrote on Sun, 28 December 2008 23:38

What can you expect from Government?

Hoover Dam
landing on the moon
the manhattan project
highway system

And every one of them over budget! LOL

Not really.

Hoover Dam - ahead of schedule and under budget: http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/buildingbig/wonder/structure/hoover. html

Moon Landing - On time and on budget: http://www.zenker.se/Surprise/apollo.shtml

Manhattan Project - Not really fair one way or the other, since its budget was unlimited.

Interstate Highway System - Though it has cost more than expected, its budget is a self-liquidating pay-as-you-go system, never adding to the National Debt: http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/interstate/faq.htm#question8

Craig

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on December 29, 2008, 07:30:40 PM

Devin Knutson wrote on Mon, 29 December 2008 02:14

wwittman wrote on Sun, 28 December 2008 22:41

compasspnt wrote on Sun, 28 December 2008 23:38

What can you expect from Government?

Hoover Dam
landing on the moon
the manhattan project
highway system

All right, but apart from the sanitation, the medicine, education, wine, public order, irrigation, roads, a fresh water system, and public health, what have the Romans ever really done for us?

brought peace?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IaE3EaQte78

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: matti on December 30, 2008, 06:44:29 PM

Back to mics and preamps. please?

Matti

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: QweziRider on December 30, 2008, 06:59:14 PM

43 days since I paid my shipping invoice. Any word yet on when shipping might take place, please? I know I'm sounding like a stuck record at this point, but I've seen several others have their questions regarding shipping answered and handled in this same period.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on December 30, 2008, 10:14:20 PM

QweziRider wrote on Tue, 30 December 2008 15:59

43 days since I paid my shipping invoice. Any word yet on when shipping might take place, please? I know I'm sounding like a stuck record at this point, but I've seen several others have their questions regarding shipping answered and handled in this same period.

Wow that seems too long. I just went to your PSW profile to get your name so I can research, but you don't have your full name listed and it's not enough for me to look it up. PM your name and I'll see whats up.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Mike Dunn on December 30, 2008, 11:38:00 PM

Mike Dunn wrote on Tue, 09 December 2008 09:09

I paid my shipping invoice last Thursday when I got my green "YES" and three boxes arrived first thing Monday morning. The small one contained two ACM2s, which sounded nice and smooth on my voice, perhaps a touch brighter on the "back" side, opposite of the TNC logo. The included rubber mic clips were however both broken.
The medium sized box contained four identical brief cases, two ACM310s and two ACM6802Ts. The ACM310s looked a bit nicer in their included velvet lined wooden boxes and after warming up sounded rich and present on my voice. The ACM6802Ts didn't seem to have the same presence, though dialing through the polar patterns from the bass boost in figure 8 to the presence boost in omni made me think they'd make a flexible room mic pair.
The largest box contained two ACMP84s and two ACMP81s, individually packaged. The ACMP84s both powered up fine and all the pre and eq controls worked as expected, including the thump on the gain control at 9 o'clock. With the gain set to 80 there is an audible buzz that can be accentuated with the EQ, but with a normal speaking voice the gain setting pushed it down into the inaudible range. The first ACMP81 powered up fine and the pre worked as expected, but when the EQ was engaged there was a loud pop, the audio became distorted, and a buzz equal in level to the input signal began. The dreaded transistor issue I assume. While the knob layout is a bit funky, I'm salivating to get the EQ issue resolved so I can use the expanded choices, it's much more a scalpel than the 84's EQ. The second ACMP81 would not power on at all. The fuse looked fine, but I went ahead and swapped it with the included spare to no avail. I'm guessing we'll address DOAs after everybody gets inital delivery, so that one will stay in it's box for now.

Inspired by the previous poster's success in repairing his DOA ACMP-73, I decided to take another look at my DOA ACMP-81 tonite. Sure enough, the wiring on the voltage selection switch, as well as that on the power regulation board, didn't match my working 81. A little re-soldering later and my DOA 81 powered up just fine. The EQ buzz on this one was much less noticeable than my original working unit, now I'm jazzed to track down those replacement transistors and get everything going 100%!
I tried a 57 on a Marshall through the pre and was impressed. I then tried the ACM-2 and was shocked that I could have thought the 57 sounded acceptable. Goddamn that's a nice tone. I tried some other mics in the same chain, 421, ACM-310, and finally hit upon the ACM-6802T in figure-8. A nice compliment to the ribbon tone, I was surprised to find the rear side of the mic (opposite the logo) was not only brighter but quite a bit hotter than the "front" when in figure-8. I tried swapping out the stock tubes for some older 12AX7s I had on hand, and went with a pair of Mullards for their darker mid tone. Pretty happy with the ACM-2/6802T through ACMP-84s for electric guitar! Now what the hell am I gonna use these SM57s for...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on December 31, 2008, 12:02:06 AM

Mike Dunn wrote on Wed, 31 December 2008 15:38

I tried a 57 on a Marshall through the pre and was impressed. I then tried the ACM-2 and was shocked that I could have thought the 57 sounded acceptable. Goddamn that's a nice tone.

I use the ACM-2s more often than anything else on guitar amps. I'm glad I bought 4.

Mike Dunn wrote on Wed, 31 December 2008 15:38

Now what the hell am I gonna use these SM57s for...

Talkback mics.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Jeff Chitouras on December 31, 2008, 12:02:15 AM

Finally! received my 8 preamps (4-73s, 2 each of the 81 & 84) and 2 mics each of the ACM-310, 6810, 900 & 1200). Been checking the User Console multiple times a day since Sept. to see the three green buttons. Delivered 2 days before Xmas.
I put everything up under the tree. This geezer dad, for the first time in his life, had more presents than anybody else in the place. I loved feasting my eyes over all that loot.

Getting back to reporting just the facts...

Having a business that regularly ships similar weight/size boxes around the world using FedEx & UPS I was very impressed with the packing/shipping job. Care was taken when packed. Especially considering that my order was part of the last 100 or so orders to be fulfilled. (For those still waiting... it WILL be sooner than later now.)

PreAmps

Having read Chuck Zwicky's comments/suggestions I proceeded to pop open the covers of each preamp and reorient the power supply transformer following the very clear, easy instructions that Chuck placed on page 95 of this thread (Nov 5, half way down the page entitled "TnC 81 Alternate Hum Cure.... "). All 8 of the preamps had very significantly decreased noise/buzz with the reorientation. Thank you Chuck!

Chuck's notes also prepared me for the loud 'Pop' that occurs when the mic sensitivity is switched between -50 & -56
"Yes this is exactly the spot where the additional gain stage gets switched in.
7th position up from fully counterclockwise.

This ONLY happens when the mic/line switch is in the "mic" position, so you may want to switch to the "line" position when rotating the switch past this point."

One 73 gave me no signal with the Mic impedance switch ( on the back of the unit) engaged in the HI position and gave me a buzzy signal in the LO position. Good reason to open up these units when you initially get them. I noticed one of the Molex plugs on the Mic/Line board was partially attached. Reseated it and Voila!, no buzz, nice signal with either HI or LO engaged.

One other 73 has a slight problem that I have not yet been able to remedy. When the Hi Pass switch is set to 50 Hz (with EQ IN) all signal is gone. Switch it Off or to any of the other settings and everything is fine. I'll have to look more closely at the soldering on the resistors placed on the switch.

Mics

OF all 8 mics and their associated power supplies I found that all mics worked. I had one power supply with a bent xfmr mount and missing one of two screws holding the XLR connector to the case (4-40 screw worked as a replacement). Also had a couple of loose rubber feet that were reattached with super glue.

Quick reactions (read: real-time experience limited to my voice going through each mic/preamp for all of 30 minutes.)

The preamps all sound very nice with the 84 having more natural 'clarity' to the formant information. (Does that make sense or am I showing my ignorance?) Bottom line is that, between the three, I will not be bothered if I am 'forced' to use these units in most any situation. I also have a Massenburg 4 channel pre and a Prosonus MP-20. Both of which I am reluctant to use in any and all situations - for completely different reasons - Massenburg because it can be too 'clean' and 'clear' and Prosonus because... it is what it is... it passes signal quietly enough but there ain't much There there if you know what I mean.

Mics - I am pleased with the sounds from the 310, 900 & 1200. The 6810 is the only piece that I am initially less excited about. It has a bit of that 'cheap chinese brittle/small upper mid/highs effect. I will have spend some mroe time with it to find where/how it is best suited to be used. I wish I had 2 more 1200s so I can have the various Oliver/Terry mods.

A final though regarding those in this GB who are feeling uneasy about possibly receiving an imperfect audio equipment specimen right out of the box. This is not the typical purchase transaction with some expected notions of QC and return policy for 'defective units'. That's why the prices are so low.

I have come to think of these GBs akin to buying a kit with the only difference being that 99.375% of these TNC units are already soldered, wired, assembled, etc including a case and power supply. I did a google of preamp kits and came up with some decently regarded kits that cost anywhere from $450 on up. And you still have to assemble and in some cases supply the enclosure and power supply. At $175 these TnC pre's are a very good deal.

Thank you Chance! Big Time! (Though I think you have some masochistic issues getting into this in the first place. Don't let me stop you! This is great.

I tried to make a 'thank you' donation on the User Console but it appears that there is no way to make it directly to you. A small stipend from a good percentage of us to Chance could delude him into doing this again. With more gear even!(Ahem, compressor(s))

A most Healthy New Year to everyone. I continually learn so much from this board.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on December 31, 2008, 12:03:58 AM

Mike Dunn wrote on Tue, 30 December 2008 23:38

Now what the hell am I gonna use these SM57s for...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: zmix on December 31, 2008, 09:24:50 AM

Jeff Chitouras wrote on Wed, 31 December 2008 00:02

...

PreAmps

Having read Chuck Zwicky's comments/suggestions I proceeded to pop open the covers of each preamp and reorient the power supply transformer following the very clear, easy instructions that Chuck placed on page 95 of this thread (Nov 5, half way down the page entitled "TnC 81 Alternate Hum Cure.... "). All 8 of the preamps had very significantly decreased noise/buzz with the reorientation. Thank you Chuck!

Chuck's notes also prepared me for the loud 'Pop' that occurs when the mic sensitivity is switched between -50 & -56
"Yes this is exactly the spot where the additional gain stage gets switched in.
7th position up from fully counterclockwise.

This ONLY happens when the mic/line switch is in the "mic" position, so you may want to switch to the "line" position when rotating the switch past this point."

One 73 gave me no signal with the Mic impedance switch ( on the back of the unit) engaged in the HI position and gave me a buzzy signal in the LO position. Good reason to open up these units when you initially get them. I noticed one of the Molex plugs on the Mic/Line board was partially attached. Reseated it and Voila!, no buzz, nice signal with either HI or LO engaged.

One other 73 has a slight problem that I have not yet been able to remedy. When the Hi Pass switch is set to 50 Hz (with EQ IN) all signal is gone. Switch it Off or to any of the other settings and everything is fine. I'll have to look more closely at the soldering on the resistors placed on the switch.

Jeff,

Glad that you found my advice helpful. ! As for the HP filter, have you tried rapidly switching through the 50hz position to determine if the switch is simply not broken in yet?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on December 31, 2008, 12:47:07 PM

Since the TnC preamps seem to be arriving with various issues, that will presumably need to be dealt with by each of us individually - would it make sense to folks here to have a specific thread dealing with these issues, so that the troubleshooting/repair info might be more easily vetted? And if so, can we make it a sticky (at least for the time being)?

Ideally, it should have (IMHO) three posts at the beginning, one for each type pre, where a summary of successful fixes can be listed & updated. But at least a separate thread would be easier to search through (as long as IT doesn't hit 129+ pages!).

FedEx stopped by my house to deliver my 73 yesterday. Unfortunately, they came by when no one was home... But anyway...I'm anticipating getting my hands on it this afternoon.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on December 31, 2008, 12:50:46 PM

I'm still having a problem with the "other" order we made. I got the first order lickety-split, but the second one was paid 10 days ago and I got a FedEx notification that the label was processed, but no package was sent.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: NelsonL on December 31, 2008, 12:56:27 PM

I believe fed-ex can be batched but not scanned-- which might explain your results JT.

Maybe holiday vortex?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on December 31, 2008, 01:07:35 PM

The tracking info. says "package data transmitted to FedEx". There hasn't been any other activity updates. Usually you can see where it gets picked up here, then scanned there with the times and so forth. So I called FedEx and they said that a package was never picked up. Just a label generated.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on December 31, 2008, 02:11:30 PM

Fedex has been uncommonly slow recently.

I ordered something for a Xmas present (from a place in KY), and it took over 11 days to get here!

For 4 days it just said "Information transmitted to Fedex..."

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on December 31, 2008, 05:23:59 PM

The 73 has landed!

Have yet to hook it up (my studio setup is still in transition... ) but it powers up fine, so that's a start. I'm going to set up a way to do some basic testing tonight & see how she does...

Thanks again Chance! Happy New Year!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on December 31, 2008, 07:31:47 PM

Man I have been crazy busy (besides sending out invoices) Someone mentioned their 6802 sounding thin and brittle. Did you burn it in? 10 to 12 hours is what most do. Also before use, warm it up for 30 minutes before using. I just received a payment for $230.00 for shipping, but there was no name just a number. That number is meaningless and un-related to anything in the database. Rod A.,your order is going out on Friday

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: pete andrews on January 02, 2009, 10:00:23 AM

just throwing it out there...
if anyone has a couple of pre's (any of them, regardless of tech issues) that they'd be willing to sell off - please PM me....

thanks!

-pete

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Rod Affleck on January 02, 2009, 12:58:26 PM

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 31 December 2008 20:31

Rod A.,your order is going out on Friday

Oh I just noticed that now. Awesome, thanks!

Rod

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigbone on January 02, 2009, 02:33:16 PM

If someone want to get rid of there 1200 mic, PM me, i will get 2....)

All the best

jean N.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cnixon on January 02, 2009, 03:38:03 PM

pete andrews wrote on Fri, 02 January 2009 09:00

just throwing it out there...
if anyone has a couple of pre's (any of them, regardless of tech issues) that they'd be willing to sell off - please PM me....

thanks!

-pete

Someone has some for sale over at homerecording.com classifieds.

http://homerecording.com/bbs/showthread.php?t=276091

Charlie

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: littlehat on January 02, 2009, 08:46:57 PM

Two questions:

1- What's up with 1200 upgrade boards and xfmrs? I wrote an email a month ago?

2- Chuck, you have a pile of all the pre/eqs, how are they working out for you?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Paul G on January 03, 2009, 12:05:09 AM

I'm also interested in a 1200 if someone has an extra they'd like to sell.

Paul

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: pete andrews on January 03, 2009, 12:26:40 AM

thanks charlie - pm (over there) sent.
anyone else - feel free to hit me up.

pete

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Michael_Joly on January 03, 2009, 07:41:43 AM

I just learned the toroid power transformer hum problem in the ACMP preamps has been discussed here and there across the forums. I've been a bit too busy to follow hundreds of threads over the past year and have missed discussions about the problems these units have.

Here's my own take on the problem and DIY solutions. Scroll down the page a bit. My apologies in advance for the ranting - had a severe case of bad first impression-itis upon receiving my two units yesterday - seven months and $400 later.

UPFRONT DISCLAIMER: I am not looking to fix, mod or upgrade any TnC equipment - mics included. I will continue to politely decline if asked.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: QweziRider on January 03, 2009, 05:53:18 PM

My two 73s arrived this morning. Thank you very much for looking into that, Chance...as well as the whole project.

So far so good. I've tried every possible configuration and knob movement I can think of and get no hum or buzz. Unless I'm missing something or reasonably stupid (a distinct possibility), I just don't hear it. I do have the loud pop on one of the gain knobs but not the other (it's actually a really loud and interesting buzz itself if you get the gain knob stuck between the two positions, but flying past it's only a pop).

They sounded really nice as a DI for a Strat too!.

Thank you again for all the hard work.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on January 03, 2009, 06:23:48 PM

Michael_Joly wrote on Sat, 03 January 2009 04:41

I just learned the toroid power transformer hum problem in the ACMP preamps has been discussed here and there across the forums. I've been a bit too busy to follow hundreds of threads over the past year and have missed discussions about the problems these units have.

Here's my own take on the problem and DIY solutions. Scroll down the page a bit. My apologies in advance for the ranting - had a severe case of bad first impression-itis upon receiving my two units yesterday - seven months and $400 later.

UPFRONT DISCLAIMER: I am not looking to fix, mod or upgrade any TnC equipment - mics included. I will continue to politely decline if asked.

Welcome to PSW Michael

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Paul G on January 03, 2009, 06:34:28 PM

Tested out my 73, 310 and 900 after a 24 hour burn-in. Everything sounded great! Next day I sang into the 900 through the 73 and it sounded like all the mids were scooped out. It didn't improve when I switched to another pre. I'll experiment some more tonight.

I've got the transformer hum in the 73 when the EQ is engaged but it sounds pretty quiet otherwise, (even with the input and output maxed). I'll wait till more experienced folks here figure out what to do. I don't think that moving the transformer into an external box would be that hard to do. I have lots of old PC PS's laying around that would work.

Thanks again, Chance for all you've done to make this happen.

Paul

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Michael_Joly on January 03, 2009, 06:43:49 PM

CHANCE wrote on Sat, 03 January 2009 17:23

Michael_Joly wrote on Sat, 03 January 2009 04:41

I just learned the toroid power transformer hum problem in the ACMP preamps has been discussed here and there across the forums. I've been a bit too busy to follow hundreds of threads over the past year and have missed discussions about the problems these units have.

Here's my own take on the problem and DIY solutions. Scroll down the page a bit. My apologies in advance for the ranting - had a severe case of bad first impression-itis upon receiving my two units yesterday - seven months and $400 later.

UPFRONT DISCLAIMER: I am not looking to fix, mod or upgrade any TnC equipment - mics included. I will continue to politely decline if asked.

Welcome to PSW Michael

ah, that's it? No comments about toroid hum, popping gain switches...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on January 03, 2009, 07:28:39 PM

Michael_Joly wrote on Sat, 03 January 2009 15:43

CHANCE wrote on Sat, 03 January 2009 17:23

Michael_Joly wrote on Sat, 03 January 2009 04:41

I just learned the toroid power transformer hum problem in the ACMP preamps has been discussed here and there across the forums. I've been a bit too busy to follow hundreds of threads over the past year and have missed discussions about the problems these units have.

Here's my own take on the problem and DIY solutions. Scroll down the page a bit. My apologies in advance for the ranting - had a severe case of bad first impression-itis upon receiving my two units yesterday - seven months and $400 later.

UPFRONT DISCLAIMER: I am not looking to fix, mod or upgrade any TnC equipment - mics included. I will continue to politely decline if asked.

Welcome to PSW Michael

ah, that's it? No comments about toroid hum, popping gain switches...

This has been covered a few pages back and it was discovered by Chuck Z that the pop was where on the original pres is where the off position is. There was also discovered that the schematics had the wrong transisters which should be BC 441-6 and BC461-6

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on January 03, 2009, 07:35:20 PM

Heres one

zmix wrote on Tue, 25 November 2008 11:32

Crash wrote on Tue, 25 November 2008 11:03

Hey Zmix, the gain knob on the 84 exhibits a weird issue at about the mid point where you can get the knob between detents and it will send a crazy loud tone to the output of the pre, pegs the needle, and all that. It only does it in mic mode with or without a mic attached. You seen anything weird there? If you blow through the detent it sounds more like a pop. Other than this issue, I have not seen any other oddities with the 84. Someone else mentioned this before too but I couldn't remember which of the 3 forums it might have been on.

This is a point on the switch where N
Title: Re: TnC 81 Alternate Hum Cure....
Post by: CHANCE on January 03, 2009, 07:48:38 PM

This is from pg 95 (other good info on that pg too

zmix wrote on Wed, 05 November 2008 09:24

Please Note:

If your 81 has a HUM rather than a BUZZ... it may be a simple fix...

The difference in hum is very important. If the hum has a raspy, chainsaw like quality, then this may indicate an oscillation in the circuit. In addition, if the signal sounds distorted when the EQ is engaged, then the unit will require a different approach than the one I will outline here.

If the hum is a mellow, sine wave + overtones type of hum, then try this solution.

You will need a #1 and a #2 phillips screwdriver and an 8mm nutdriver, and a pair of rubber gloves.

Step 1:

Unplug the power cable.

Step 2

Remove the lid of the preamp using the #1 Phillips screwdriver..
There are two screws on each side, two in the back and two screws on the top.

Step 3

The power supply transformer is located in the rear right corner of the preamp as you face it from the front. It is fastened to the bottom of the chassis by a large phillips head screw and an 8mm nut. Put the nutdriver on that nut and the #2 phillips screwdriver on the screw on the bottom of the chassis. Gently loosen the screw, do not remove it, just loosen it by a quarter turn or so. so that the power transformer can be moved without too much force.

Step 4

Prepare the unit as follows:

Input Gain: Minimum

EQ: IN

LF: 330hz, gain fully up (clockwise)

LMF: 220hz HiQ IN Gain fully up

HMF: 1.5khz Hi Q IN Gain fully up.

Output fader fully up.

Connect the output of the preamp to a suitable monitoring device (console, etc).

Power up the module and connect it to the monitoring device.

Step 5

Turn up the gain until you can hear the HUM plainly.

Put on your rubber gloves.

Grip the power transformer and begin to rotate it. You will hear the timbre of the HUM change as you rotate the transformer.

Rotate the transformer to the point where the HUM is at it's minimum level.
Put the cover on temporarily and check the hum level. The cover will influence the magnetic field of the transformer, so this may take a few trials.

Step 6

Tighten the center bolt and replace the top cover.

Done!!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on January 03, 2009, 07:50:15 PM

zmix wrote on Tue, 04 November 2008 05:21

tarnationsauce wrote on Tue, 04 November 2008 06:54

Quote:

( Q4 must be a BC461 - 6 and Q5 must be BC441 - 6). The input board and HP / LP boards are fine as they are.."

Is the number 6 after the part number the quantity we'll need?
Thanks for sorting this issue out!

No. The suffix "6" distinguishes the part. The BC441 and BC461 without the "6" can only handle 25% of the current that the "- 6" part can.

You will need 4 each of the BC461-6 and 4 each of the BC441-6 for every TnC-81 that you have.,

Title: Re: TnC 81 EQ Buzz / Hum SOLVED!!!
Post by: CHANCE on January 03, 2009, 07:51:48 PM

zmix wrote on Mon, 03 November 2008 16:01

I just wanted to post an update to the TNC 81 humm problem.

I solved it today, and it was exactly as I had theorized:

The amplifier circuits in the EQ sections were oscillating, leading to RF induced hum and overheating.

I swapped out the output transistor pair in each of the EQ amplifier circuits and voila... no noises, no hum, no problems...

To Sum up:

NOT powersupply related
NOT grounding related
NOT layout related
NOT induced EMI related
NOT wiring related.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Michael_Joly on January 03, 2009, 08:02:41 PM

Its not clear from your response what TnC will do about these problems under the terms of the warrantee in the manual. Could you clarify that?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on January 03, 2009, 08:13:25 PM

Michael_Joly wrote on Sat, 03 January 2009 17:02

Its not clear from your response what TnC will do about these problems under the terms of the warrantee in the manual. Could you clarify that?

If you wish, I can get the shipping address where you can send it to in China.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Michael_Joly on January 03, 2009, 08:32:35 PM

CHANCE wrote on Sat, 03 January 2009 19:13

Michael_Joly wrote on Sat, 03 January 2009 17:02

Its not clear from your response what TnC will do about these problems under the terms of the warrantee in the manual. Could you clarify that?

If you wish, I can get the shipping address where you can send it to in China.

Are you saying giving me an address in China where I can send a unit fulfills the terms of TnC's Service & Limited Liability excerpted below?

Quote: "TNC Audio guarantees the microphone preamplifier to the original purchaser for a period of one year...TNC will be responsible for mending or replacing any unit found to be defective."

What does "TNC will be responsible for mending or replacing any unit found to be defective" mean? What are the original owners rights under this guarantee?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on January 03, 2009, 08:34:14 PM

CHANCE wrote on Sat, 03 January 2009 20:13

Michael_Joly wrote on Sat, 03 January 2009 17:02

Its not clear from your response what TnC will do about these problems under the terms of the warrantee in the manual. Could you clarify that?

If you wish, I can get the shipping address where you can send it to in China.

What exactly are you stating here Chance? I would like a clear understanding expressed by you.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: redddog on January 03, 2009, 09:59:46 PM

Indeed.

That looks like a big FU.

This is getting nuts.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on January 03, 2009, 10:55:31 PM

Actually You can send them back here, and I will send them back to China for repair. I just ask that everyone that wants to do so, wait till I get everything shipped. That way I can ship back in bulk.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on January 03, 2009, 11:15:14 PM

Chance,

Just wanted to say thanks for all your efforts on this group buy.

It was a huge undertaking on your part.

I'm sure that it's difficult for most of us to appreciate all the time and effort you've put into this.

I hope there will be opportunities to participate in additional buys in the future.

I'm only unhappy that I didn't pick up more this time around.

Thanks again to you, Terry and everyone else involved.

Namast

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on January 03, 2009, 11:27:25 PM

Thanks for understanding Bill.

Michael Joly, Welcome to the Forum. I have admired your work from afar.

Once again everyone, this whole project has been undertaken at incredible expense of time, trouble, and even loss of money. This has been the closest thing to a Gear Charity that could have ever existed.

Chance in particular has worked his Arse off to get all this done for everyone, for NO compensation at all (while spending his own money to make it happen, rather than making any), all while he also has had to do his normal studio work that DOES make him a living.

Most of the gear has worked well, and there are many happy campers.

The mic preamps were an entirely new design, never made or distributed before.

People have gotten preamps that should sell for about $900 to $1000 for about $200 each.

Even having said all of this, any problems WILL be dealt with. All Chance has asked of those who have encountered problems (SEVERAL TIMES NOW, I MIGHT ADD) is that you wait just a bit while he gets the remaining shipments out. Then we shall see what can be done.

If possible, a fix will be made in the US. Worst case, we will get the Chinese factory to fix them, but for that, Chance is asking that we all try to do it in a manner that makes logistical sense.

Thanks again to everyone, and please "Stand By For News."

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on January 03, 2009, 11:39:14 PM

to chance and terry, i just want to offer, yet again, some gratitude for putting this GREAT DEAL together for all of us. i hope the responses of gratitude are overshadowing the responses of what might seem to be otherwise.......

also, to MJ and the folks who might be intimidated by replacing a few transistors or rotating a transformer, it really looks like an easy job. not to mention that the expense of shipping, waste of resources(fuel), could potentially outweigh the original cost of the unit....

we all really appreciate it, guys.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: redddog on January 04, 2009, 12:06:15 AM

I'm praying for you guys that there is some kind of payoff coming down the road for you.

It really is charitable what you guys are doing. It's a tough situation though.

Peopele have a tough time with this type of arrangement, I think. The waiting and such. We are a "right this minute" society and if everything doesn't work out right away, we start to freak out.

You guys are truly charitable and your hard work has been just insanely cool.

I hope that our vasilations of craziness aren't too much to dissuade you from doing this in the future and I look forward to this round being over for you guys so you can relax for a while.

Cheers fellas.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Strummer on January 04, 2009, 12:14:54 AM

Michael_Joly wrote on Sat, 03 January 2009 20:02

Its not clear from your response what TnC will do about these problems under the terms of the warrantee in the manual. Could you clarify that?

Welcome to PSW MJ.

I'll pop in here and say if you're not happy, send me your vitals and I'll mail you cash or a money order, whichever you prefer for 400 USD. When you've received it I'll issue a UPS call tag, then you'll have no worries and be out nothing.

You said somewhere you had two '73's? I'd go back and look for sure but I don't feel like reading what others have spent their time and effort on. I'll gladly take two of them off your hands and save a few grand. I'm pretty sure I have the correct transitors laying in a drawer here, if not I know where to get them.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on January 04, 2009, 12:27:25 AM

Yes, anyone not satisfied with their preamps, note that there are already several people trying to buy them from you, tech issues or not (can be easily fixed). Some are even offering a premium to get their hands on these...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on January 04, 2009, 12:29:26 AM

Yes, there are no shortage of people who'll pay full price for any of the TNC gear, even if it has issues. I always expected to be modding this gear anyway. I'm looking forward to seeing what needs to be done when my 8 pres and 9 mics get here.

EDIT: Terry beat me to it.....

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on January 04, 2009, 12:55:07 AM

Wow

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Michael_Joly on January 04, 2009, 07:24:09 AM

Perhaps my questions regarding TnC's guarantee policy and responsibilities were too subtle to reveal what prompted them.

The principals of TnC are leveraging their group buy experience, upfront customer cash-flow, contact lists and over 500,000 combined forum page views to launch new commercial businesses. As a potential customer of almost any new audio business, I am interested in watching TnC's response to questions regarding customer service issues. I don't think I'm alone in saying I was not amused to be told I could send my units to China for service.

As y'all may have surmised, my issue is not only with two sub-professional ACMP-73 preamplifiers - which, by the way, I could fix if I was looking for a DIY hobby and am not selling. My issues are perhaps are a bit more abstract - I'm interested in observing group buy processes and watching how business, technical and ethical challenges get addressed and solved.

A basic question lingers - Considering tied-up cash, long wait times, defective gear and dismissive or unresponsive customer service, do group buys offer true value to end users?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: GrahameD on January 04, 2009, 08:31:35 AM

Michael_Joly wrote on Sun, 04 January 2009 07:24

Perhaps my questions regarding TnC's guarantee policy and responsibilities were too subtle to reveal what prompted them.

>snip

A basic question lingers - Considering tied-up cash, long wait times, defective gear and dismissive or unresponsive customer service, do group buys offer true value to end users?

I'm afraid you were too subtle in expressing your high-minded academic interest in the group buy process.

It unfortunately came off merely as whiney, pissy complaining.

The principals have been upfront about their ambition to launch a product line, and almost every body involved (as you say, nearly 500,000 page views) has been encouraging them.

I am curious why you say you are treating the preamps as a business loss doorstops, when you obviously have the technical ability to fix them, and are turning down offers to take them off your hands for the full price paid. This just seems spiteful.

All the best,

Grahame

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: okgb on January 04, 2009, 08:32:56 AM

There was allot of money hanging around for a while ,
hope someone made some interest off of it .

Sure what's the cost of cheap gear ?
what's the value of cheap gear ?

the less you pay the more you tollerate ,

check these guys out , trying to get in on turning a few mics
around before walmart starts selling them

http://www.gauge-usa.com/

Hey Mj if that recording hacks site is your's ,
it's pretty decent , thanks
although with the word hacks , i thought there may be mods
on the pages

And still waiting for mine invoice even [ getting bitter about spending a grand ]

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on January 04, 2009, 08:33:21 AM

Michael_Joly wrote on Sat, 03 January 2009 07:41

seven months and $400 later.

Michael, you’re a smart guy. You knew this would be a long process. This remark, in your first post in this thread can only be considered confrontational and catty.

Michael_Joly wrote on Sat, 03 January 2009 18:43

CHANCE wrote on Sat, 03 January 2009 17:23

Michael_Joly wrote on Sat, 03 January 2009 04:41

I just learned the toroid power transformer hum problem in the ACMP preamps has been discussed here and there across the forums. I've been a bit too busy to follow hundreds of threads over the past year and have missed discussions about the problems these units have.

Here's my own take on the problem and DIY solutions. Scroll down the page a bit. My apologies in advance for the ranting - had a severe case of bad first impression-itis upon receiving my two units yesterday - seven months and $400 later.

UPFRONT DISCLAIMER: I am not looking to fix, mod or upgrade any TnC equipment - mics included. I will continue to politely decline if asked.

Welcome to PSW Michael

ah, that's it? No comments about toroid hum, popping gain switches...

Gee, that tone continues.

CHANCE wrote on Sat, 03 January 2009 20:13

Michael_Joly wrote on Sat, 03 January 2009 17:02

Its not clear from your response what TnC will do about these problems under the terms of the warrantee in the manual. Could you clarify that?

If you wish, I can get the shipping address where you can send it to in China.

Wow. I’m really admiring Chance’s restraint about now.

Michael_Joly wrote on Sun, 04 January 2009 07:24

Perhaps my questions regarding TnC's guarantee policy and responsibilities were too subtle to reveal what prompted them.

The principals of TnC are leveraging their group buy experience, upfront customer cash-flow, contact lists and over 500,000 combined forum page views to launch new commercial businesses. As a potential customer of almost any new audio business, I am interested in watching TnC's response to questions regarding customer service issues. I don't think I'm alone in saying I was not amused to be told I could send my units to China for service.

As y'all may have surmised, my issue is not only with two sub-professional ACMP-73 preamplifiers - which, by the way, I could fix if I was looking for a DIY hobby and am not selling. My issues are perhaps are a bit more abstract - I'm interested in observing group buy processes and watching how business, technical and ethical challenges get addressed and solved.

A basic question lingers - Considering tied-up cash, long wait times, defective gear and dismissive or unresponsive customer service, do group buys offer true value to end users?

Michael, I don’t think anyone twisted your arm here, and anyone with a modicum of sense knew what they were getting into. So I have to ask myself, what’s the motivation of a technically savvy guy such as yourself in trashing Chance and this group buy.

Oh, yeah, you sell microphones, don’t you?

Things like this can cut into your sales, right?

I think that pretty much explains it.

Bill_Urick wrote on Sat, 03 January 2009 23:15

Chance,

Just wanted to say thanks for all your efforts on this group buy.

It was a huge undertaking on your part.

I'm sure that it's difficult for most of us to appreciate all the time and effort you've put into this.

I hope there will be opportunities to participate in additional buys in the future.

I'm only unhappy that I didn't pick up more this time around.

Thanks again to you, Terry and everyone else involved.

Namast
Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: sodderboy on January 04, 2009, 08:34:13 AM

You already have your answer in this thread, and it is not subtly presented.
So many here are already grateful, are using equipment that works for them, even if they had to mod it themselves. They did not read the manual, let alone the fine print.

I also offer to buy your equipment. Maybe I will get yours quicker than I will get mine own! I forget again what I ordered. . .
Mike

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: okgb on January 04, 2009, 08:50:32 AM

Send the pre back and wait another year ?
I haven't even got them yet

curious to see what the new models will be though

No one had responded to the earlier posting about a delay in shipping because 100 pres didn't pass QC , because , presumably
they were making more ? or QC was so low that more made it through ? the fellow with a miswired A.C. couldn't have had his checked at all if it didn't work . So what happened ?

and why No answers ?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on January 04, 2009, 08:51:14 AM

Michael_Joly wrote on Sun, 04 January 2009 04:24

do group buys offer true value to end users?

I would think if they didn't, the GB's would not keep growing. The majority in this GB, have participated in one or all four past group buys. If there was no true value, there would be few or no return group buyers. The meaning of value is up to the individual.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on January 04, 2009, 09:26:29 AM

dear mr. joly,

you may not know this, but the folks who run this forum have managed to maintain one of the lowest "content to nonsense" or S/N ratios of anywhere on the net, so, with an attempt to keep things as cordial as possible......

your comments here could easily be taken as overly negative. to my knowledge, you offered no gratitude whatsoever for the group buy, but used your first post here to subtly poke holes in a business model you took part in. while normally i would just ignore this, i feel like comments like yours jeopardize the potential for these sorts of financial arrangements/opportunities in the future. some of us would actually participate in this again, not to mention those that were just plain thankful for this past one.

or, short answer-dont be the bad apple. dont like em? sell off your units and be done with it.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on January 04, 2009, 09:27:50 AM

Michael_Joly wrote

My issues are perhaps are a bit more abstract - I'm interested in observing group buy processes and watching how business, technical and ethical challenges get addressed and solved.

Is this for a post-graduate business-degree-case-study?

It would make a great MBA-Case-Study topic and there is plenty of source info all around the internet concerning group buys. It is by no means an uncommon occurrence, nor a phenomenon exclusive to the audio production industry.

Michael_Joly wrote

A basic question lingers - Considering tied-up cash, long wait times, defective gear and dismissive or unresponsive customer service, do group buys offer true value to end users?

Well, if you want to answer that question for your case study, lets go into it with some defined metrics ok?

Tru-Value defined in terms of lost or saved $$'s, time lost or saved (can be converted to $$'s), knowledge gained or lost (could be converted to $$'s), community, instant-gratification, ... More metrics?

Hey MJ, This is interesting. Please keep it rolling.

Cheers,
j

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: okgb on January 04, 2009, 09:37:46 AM

I don't think Mj critisied the mics , but if the disscusions
make for a better operation , let's get some good of it .
there ARE many unanswered questions , still .

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Michael_Joly on January 04, 2009, 09:59:33 AM

One of the challenges of Internet and email communication is having one's words read as intended - without them being removed from context and attributes ascribed to them. Since we're all dropping the subtlety, I'll just say I'm not whining, complaining or being catty. Just presented some facts (including trouble shooting) and requested clarification of TnC's answers.

As to my motivation for writing? I am by nature inquisitive, observant, analytical and communicative. I like watching processes unfold. Group buys fascinate me at many levels: business, technical, ethical - the whole anthropology of virtual group spaces. Sorry if that sounds academic.

Yes, I do mod client's existing mics and sell new modified mics. Are group buys a threat to me? No. My clients are, for the most part, folks who prefer to spend as much time as possible making and recording music. They place a value on their time and come to me because I offer quick, responsive, cost-effective solutions to their needs.

Very low cost group buy mics are actually a good thing - they offer a solution to people for whom price is a major determinant in their purchase decision or for those who intend to do some DIY work.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on January 04, 2009, 10:30:48 AM

I agree with Michael.

At times in the past, people have said that something I wrote was (at least partially) misunderstood, because I did not use an "emoticon" and make my intentions crystal clear. Thereby, sarcasm or another intended implication was said to have been lost.

I beg to differ.

I think, in most cases, motivations here are fairly transparent.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on January 04, 2009, 10:49:14 AM

Just in case my motivation is not transparent, I would like for another group buy to take place and I would like for everyone to be nice to Chance and trust him to resolve any issues as quickly as possible. We're only seeing forum posts. I can't imagine what his PM's and emails look like.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on January 04, 2009, 11:03:57 AM

CHANCE wrote on Sat, 03 January 2009 22:55

Actually You can send them back here, and I will send them back to China for repair. I just ask that everyone that wants to do so, wait till I get everything shipped. That way I can ship back in bulk.

compasspnt wrote on Sat, 03 January 2009 23:27

If possible, a fix will be made in the US. Worst case, we will get the Chinese factory to fix them, but for that, Chance is asking that we all try to do it in a manner that makes logistical sense.

OMG! How hard was that? A simple reply to a valid question! An email to this effect would have been even more direct. The technology is used several times a day by the organizers of the Group Buy to communicate a variety of things and promote new product. So waiting for the finalization of shipping just isn’t necessary or even prudent for such a simple action. It certainly didn’t take away from your regular activates either and could have avioded much of this uproar.

I don’t think anyone who has received their shipment and had an issue requested immediate action either. Many just want to know that the problem is understood and will be dealt with in XYZ manor should they choose according to warranty.

No one is questioning the effort or indeed the appreciation involved in the Group Buy BTW. But it must be worth it to those involved on some level(s). Be it profit or philanthropic. It was a choice made as much as the choice to participate in it.

My extra small and simple business model for these GB items many not fit others intended uses for the most part and I understand that. I made certain going into this that my business model was acceptable to the organizers. I sure I’m not unique in this.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: maxim on January 04, 2009, 09:55:41 PM

the motivations are ALWAYS transparent...

btw, happy to say that today, on arriving home, i found a box of in the hallway, containing, one 1200, which is already a GREAT deal, and i'd love to check out the "47" modification that terry was talking about

it's also got the fet condenser in there, which i wanted to try on the bass drum

even if it doesn't fit, i'm sure i can find a place for it one day

i participated in the last tuangou and i was very happy with my collection of ribbons which have ALL found a place on my tracks

very happy customer right here!!!!

thanks, chance, you can be sure that, despite the variously motivated grumblers, your karma tank is filled to the brim on this one...

here's a perspective on the tuangou from the china observer

http://thechinaobserver.com/2008/12/tuangou-chinese-consumer s-group-together-for-bargains/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: okgb on January 05, 2009, 08:18:22 AM

Thats nice your package made it to Oz , so we know it's possible
as Canadians i thought we were closer

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on January 05, 2009, 02:20:54 PM

Has anyone in Canada received their gear or had a shipping invoice yet? I'd be interested in trying estimate the costs I will be accruing.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Nick Sevilla on January 05, 2009, 04:10:39 PM

Hi,

I ordered three mics, an ACM1200, and two ACM-2s.

I am able to pick up, as I have not yet been able to pay for shipping.

I left a private message for Chance, hopefully soon I can go pick up my order.

Cheers,

Nick

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on January 05, 2009, 05:14:55 PM

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on January 06, 2009, 07:30:06 AM

http://www.3daudioinc.com/3db/showthread.php?t=15887&pag e=3

Fourth post down.

In the interest of transparency...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Michael_Joly on January 06, 2009, 08:21:18 AM

Thanks for pointing out that link. Lynn Fuston, now the Technical Editor of Pro Audio Review, has written an article about US audio companies sourcing parts and equipment from China. He asked his 3D Audio forum members for information relating to his article.

I believe the topic of US audio companies sourcing from China is worthy of vigorous debate in general - and group buys particularly so. As different forum communities have different takes on these issues I also posted essentially the same comments and questions at Homerecording.com, Gearslutz.com and TapeOp.com in addition to 3D Audio and ProSoundWeb. The opinions expressed across these forums have been quite varied and interesting to read.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on January 06, 2009, 10:00:08 AM

You're very welcome, Michael.
I look forward to future commentary from you regarding this buy.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: ScotcH on January 06, 2009, 11:26:13 AM

Les Ismore wrote on Mon, 05 January 2009 14:20

Has anyone in Canada received their gear or had a shipping invoice yet? I'd be interested in trying estimate the costs I will be accruing.

When I was in my first band at 18 years old, we wrote a super cheezeball ballad called "I'm still waiting". That song comes to mind right about now

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Eric H. on January 06, 2009, 11:41:51 AM

Hi chance,
How many boxes left? Approximately?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: littlehat on January 06, 2009, 11:53:08 AM

I'm not sure a vigorous debate is called for.

I drive a Honda, because it's a better car for the money. End of story.

Value drives success in manufacturing.
No debate will stop the pressures of Chinese manufacturing.
Value has two aspects; cost and quality.
When a cheap manufacturer can break a certain quality threshold, other companies must either make products to compete price wise, or make products that are significantly better qualitatively.

If, as a young tadpole, I could have purchased a TNC preamp pair and some mics through a Group Buy, I would have been making better recordings in high school.

Microphone and preamplifier design has not advanced in so long. Innovation is the key to thriving business in technology. Offshore makers have innovated in manufacturing and they have super low cost labor. If the products cost 50% more from better labor practices, we'd still be getting a screaming deal over USA or European made goods.

Where's the debate? Do you watch a USA made television? Are you typing posts out on an American computer?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on January 06, 2009, 12:15:35 PM

I am really enjoying my ACM-2's on my AC30.
Much nicer than SM57's. Smooth.
And I get way less bleed!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: mattrussell on January 06, 2009, 01:25:31 PM

is there a schematic available for the 73's? i did a quick search and couldn't find one.

one of my units is not powering up and upon a quick look, nothing seems wrong. also, on a 2nd unit i have, the 12k knob doesn't do anything. still need to pop that one open and look.

btw, the acm-2's sound wonderful.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: mattrussell on January 06, 2009, 01:42:57 PM

12k pot fixed. simply wasn't connected. the power issue was very simple as well. wasn't wired correctly. circuit was left open when in 110v. in 220, it worked. fixing it right now.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on January 06, 2009, 02:02:36 PM

Great to hear Matt.

Let us know (after all this shipping odyssey) if there's anything else.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: okgb on January 06, 2009, 03:50:39 PM

Hey Little hat
are you saying their only problem is Quality control ?

It affects much more than electronics of course , but where one
cannot afford " REAL " quality, just things that LOOK like
better things , if you only have a little money there is no choice ,but you have something ,
but they don't last and one needs to fix or replace it
at some point, as many have mentioned , what does that cost

Still if you only have a sm57 , it's a great mic
if you have a 57 and U87 , then you have to choose .

Another point someone made was that a kit would cost more ,
and indeed i bought here thinking it'd be easier than building
from scratch if i have to modify it ,
But these weren't sold as kits , they were sold as designed
preamp copies in which the shippment was delayed due to some not
passing Quality Control .

Still it'll be nice to get them soon and it will be, working or
not 4 more neve type pres than i had before
[ and as my intention was to have these at my place while i rent my Great Rivers out ]

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Nizzle on January 06, 2009, 04:10:39 PM

Just thought I'd chime in here to communicate my experience with this group buy.

I purchased

2qty ACMP 73's

2qty: ACM 1200's

2qty: ACM 900's

My 73's are working perfectly(with exception to the "pop" when adjusting the gain pot into the 8 oclock position). No apparent hum issue. I tested both pres with one of my old Altec Ribbons. No problem achieving clean/ acceptable gain for spoken word use. They sound quite nice and I'm very happy with these.

Both mics are working perfectly and I have found them very useable on a variety of sources. I'm particularly excited to explore the modifications for these mics.

I don't want this message to come off as somenone who is "rubbing it in the nose" of others who received defective gear and/ or have not had a great experience with this group buy so far. I just thought that my experience might provide some counterpoint to the some of the other's experiences.

-t

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on January 06, 2009, 04:24:20 PM

Most have had similar good experiences. The mics were known and expected to be as they are.

The preamps were a brand new entity, and although they have had a few teething problems, they are actually amazingly usable.

That one "pop" problem, again, is because, as they are paying tribute to the "Vintage Neve" design, they are two stage preamps.

In most cases, you are better off NOT switching in the second stage...I know on Neves I have used, and a two-stage Lucas valve one, I always prefer not to add in that second stage.

But when you need it, it is there.

The "pop" happens because there is no "OFF" position, just a straight switching into the second stage coming on...so therefor, in this case, there has to be a pop. In the original Neve design, there was an "off" click position between the two stages. There could still be a surprise or two with them, but they were usually quieter.

This could be remedied by changing that one click to be "off," or work-around by just knowing what's up, and watching out for your monitors when switching in the second stage.

If we ever do future models or versions, I will try to get the "off" position added in from the beginning. Also will check into what is involved in modding these to include "off."

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: littlehat on January 06, 2009, 04:33:30 PM

I'm saying there is no larger overarching problem.

If you have a problem with the concept of the group buy, I think it's political, not practical. And you're fighting a losing battle. I am, however, more empathetic to the political and human rights side of the discussion.

If you're just talking nuts and bolts, this gear rules with an iron fist.

I got 4 amcp-73 pres, one 1200 and two ribbons.
All appear flawless and after the literally 5 minute transformer twist, all sound insanely good for the price.

I dare you to do a blind test with any preamps (eq or not) below $350 a channel against the acmp-73.

They sound great, and are a very real value for very good audio and build quality you can not get in a USA built piece anywhere near this pricepoint. The next step up IMO would be the Daking Pre IV at $500 a channel without eq.

The mics smoke sm57s (not hard to do). All three are better all around mics than any 57 I've ever heard. In specific applications, an sm57 can be the right mic. I got both ribbons for the price of one new 57, and each one is better than a 57.
If quality means you can use it as a hammer... the sm57 is the greatest mic ever made.

But I have hammers. I use mics for recording.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on January 06, 2009, 04:48:26 PM

2 x ACMP 73's
2 x 1200's
2 x 310's
2 x 900's
2 x ACM 2's
No problems

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: QweziRider on January 06, 2009, 06:36:34 PM

compasspnt wrote on Tue, 06 January 2009 13:24

The "pop" happens because there is no "OFF" position, just a straight switching into the second stage coming on...so therefor, in this case, there has to be a pop. In the original Neve design, there was an "off" click position between the two stages. There could still be a surprise or two with them, but they were usually quieter.

Please forgive all my ignorance on these things, as I'm new to owning such a preamp. But what is the purpose in a second stage? And why does one of my 73s pop and the other does not?

Just trying to become educated on the mechanics of all this.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on January 06, 2009, 06:47:37 PM

QweziRider wrote on Tue, 06 January 2009 18:36

compasspnt wrote on Tue, 06 January 2009 13:24

The "pop" happens because there is no "OFF" position, just a straight switching into the second stage coming on...so therefor, in this case, there has to be a pop. In the original Neve design, there was an "off" click position between the two stages. There could still be a surprise or two with them, but they were usually quieter.

Please forgive all my ignorance on these things, as I'm new to owning such a preamp. But what is the purpose in a second stage? And why does one of my 73s pop and the other does not?

Just trying to become educated on the mechanics of all this.

The additional stage gives another 20dB of gain to the circuit, allowing the -80 position. It's a standard N

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: mattrussell on January 06, 2009, 06:47:37 PM

compasspnt wrote on Tue, 06 January 2009 14:02

Great to hear Matt.

Let us know (after all this shipping odyssey) if there's anything else.

thanks terry. everything is now in good working order. busy as hell this month so, i'll be putting everything through it's paces. looking forward to doing some direct comparisons with my usual suspects. hope it that it will help me start to 'learn' these new tools.

i'm compelled to say again that the acm-2's are already far exceeding my expectations. the 1200's are also quite good right out of the box. certainly going to make the move to the 47ish kits.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Muad Dib on January 06, 2009, 07:34:20 PM

Michael_Joly wrote on Sun, 04 January 2009 06:24

Perhaps my questions regarding TnC's guarantee policy and responsibilities were too subtle to reveal what prompted them.

The principals of TnC are leveraging their group buy experience, upfront customer cash-flow, contact lists and over 500,000 combined forum page views to launch new commercial businesses. As a potential customer of almost any new audio business, I am interested in watching TnC's response to questions regarding customer service issues. I don't think I'm alone in saying I was not amused to be told I could send my units to China for service.

As y'all may have surmised, my issue is not only with two sub-professional ACMP-73 preamplifiers - which, by the way, I could fix if I was looking for a DIY hobby and am not selling. My issues are perhaps are a bit more abstract - I'm interested in observing group buy processes and watching how business, technical and ethical challenges get addressed and solved.

A basic question lingers - Considering tied-up cash, long wait times, defective gear and dismissive or unresponsive customer service, do group buys offer true value to end users?

...shameless self promotion...

J-Texas wrote on Wed, 31 December 2008 12:07

The tracking info. says "package data transmitted to FedEx". There hasn't been any other activity updates. Usually you can see where it gets picked up here, then scanned there with the times and so forth. So I called FedEx and they said that a package was never picked up. Just a label generated.

ditto for me.

cant wait to try those 310s.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on January 06, 2009, 08:27:51 PM

Greetings Usel!
For a time I sported the moniker of your son, Leto II.
I may yet again.

Welcome to the forum.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: redddog on January 06, 2009, 08:44:41 PM

compasspnt wrote on Tue, 06 January 2009 15:24

Most have had similar good experiences. The mics were known and expected to be as they are.

The preamps were a brand new entity, and although they have had a few teething problems, they are actually amazingly usable.

That one "pop" problem, again, is because, as they are paying tribute to the "Vintage Neve" design, they are two stage preamps.

In most cases, you are better off NOT switching in the second stage...I know on Neves I have used, and a two-stage Lucas valve one, I always prefer not to add in that second stage.

But when you need it, it is there.

The "pop" happens because there is no "OFF" position, just a straight switching into the second stage coming on...so therefor, in this case, there has to be a pop. In the original Neve design, there was an "off" click position between the two stages. There could still be a surprise or two with them, but they were usually quieter.

This could be remedied by changing that one click to be "off," or work-around by just knowing what's up, and watching out for your monitors when switching in the second stage.

If we ever do future models or versions, I will try to get the "off" position added in from the beginning. Also will check into what is involved in modding these to include "off."

Great to see you weigh in Terry. Thanks again for all the stuff you guys are doing. It has turned into sort of a shit storm but no one has ever questioned the altruism that you and Chance exhibit daily.

Some are pissed. Most are really incredibly grateful and psyched. I think given the scope of the operation, that's gonna happen anyway.

At any rate, your acknoledgement is really cool.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Paul G on January 06, 2009, 11:10:42 PM

I'm hoping to get some advice here from some of you tech savvy and more experienced guys. I got a 73 and two mics in the TnC GB and after a 24 hour burn-in everything sounded great, (outside of the EQ noise).

Next day I recorded some vocal tracks through the 73 using an NTK with no EQ. The track sounded very thin and nasal. I sang the same phrase through my SA 2BA-221 and the track sounded fine. Has anyone else noticed this with the 73? Any advice as what to look for?

Here's a link to my SoundClick page where you can listen to the clips if you like:

http://www.soundclick.com/bands/default.cfm?bandID=409549

Any help would be really appreciated. Thanks.

Paul

BTW, EQ disengaged, Impedance switch = low, No phantom power, mic switch engaged.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: redddog on January 07, 2009, 08:43:53 AM

So it sounded fine one day and then the next, it was thin and nasal?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Paul G on January 07, 2009, 08:54:13 AM

redddog wrote on Wed, 07 January 2009 08:43

So it sounded fine one day and then the next, it was thin and nasal?

After the burn-in I hooked up the two new mics and simply did a "test, test" into each of the mics and messed with the input gain and the EQ. The next day I actually tried recording a vocal track using an NTK and the 73. It wasn't until I played back the tracks that I noticed how bad the pre sounded, (compared to the other pre). Same cables, same mic... Thanks.

Paul

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on January 07, 2009, 09:08:42 AM

Very strange. I just did a vocal through an 84, and it was anything but "thin and nasal." I overdrove the 84 for some extra grit, and was pretty close to the (modified 1200/47 prototype) capsule for some PE boost.

You need to do some testing of the whole chain, different mics, swap pre again, even cables, and be sure where this problem is.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on January 07, 2009, 11:13:43 AM

Paul G wrote on Wed, 07 January 2009 08:54

redddog wrote on Wed, 07 January 2009 08:43

So it sounded fine one day and then the next, it was thin and nasal?

After the burn-in I hooked up the two new mics and simply did a "test, test" into each of the mics and messed with the input gain and the EQ. The next day I actually tried recording a vocal track using an NTK and the 73. It wasn't until I played back the tracks that I noticed how bad the pre sounded, (compared to the other pre). Same cables, same mic... Thanks.

Paul

What was this "burn in" that you did? Leaving it powered up for 24 hours?

It sounds to me like you have a connector or switch problem. I recommend that you perform the exercise I recommended earlier in the thread;

Run a low frequency tone at a fairly hot level into the unit while switching each switch and rotating each pot multiple times. Also insert and remove the connectors from the mic "lin" and output jacks several times.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Paul G on January 07, 2009, 12:51:31 PM

compasspnt wrote on Wed, 07 January 2009 09:08

Very strange. I just did a vocal through an 84, and it was anything but "thin and nasal." I overdrove the 84 for some extra grit, and was pretty close to the (modified 1200/47 prototype) capsule for some PE boost.

You need to do some testing of the whole chain, different mics, swap pre again, even cables, and be sure where this problem is.

Thanks Terry. I will do more testing. What's strange is that using the same mic and cables through a different pre sounded fine. I had them both warmed up and just switched cables and cut the same phrase. I switched back a forth several times with the same results. I'll do it again and see what happens. Did you listen to the clips? Maybe my ears are screwed up. LOL

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Paul G on January 07, 2009, 01:00:30 PM

zmix wrote on Wed, 07 January 2009 11:13

Paul G wrote on Wed, 07 January 2009 08:54

redddog wrote on Wed, 07 January 2009 08:43

So it sounded fine one day and then the next, it was thin and nasal?

After the burn-in I hooked up the two new mics and simply did a "test, test" into each of the mics and messed with the input gain and the EQ. The next day I actually tried recording a vocal track using an NTK and the 73. It wasn't until I played back the tracks that I noticed how bad the pre sounded, (compared to the other pre). Same cables, same mic... Thanks.

Paul

What was this "burn in" that you did? Leaving it powered up for 24 hours?

It sounds to me like you have a connector or switch problem. I recommend that you perform the exercise I recommended earlier in the thread;

Run a low frequency tone at a fairly hot level into the unit while switching each switch and rotating each pot multiple times. Also insert and remove the connectors from the mic "lin" and output jacks several times.

Thanks Chuck. Yes. I hooked all my new gear up and left it on for 24 hours. I've opened the unit and checked all the connections. I can do that again. This time I'll disconnect them, then reconnect them. I also rotated the transformer.

I did do the "switch, jack and pot" exercise but will do it again and also follow you testing suggestions. Thanks for the advice.

Paul

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on January 07, 2009, 01:14:52 PM

Thanks Paul. Please let us know what you discover!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: Jeff Chitouras on January 07, 2009, 10:49:08 PM

Thanks, (once again) Chuck. 73 HP filter "problem" appears to be solved after running through your 'high-level signal/rapid switching regimen.

zmix wrote on Wed, 31 December 2008 09:24

Jeff Chitouras wrote on Wed, 31 December 2008 00:02

...

PreAmps

Having read Chuck Zwicky's comments/suggestions I proceeded to pop open the covers of each preamp and reorient the power supply transformer following the very clear, easy instructions that Chuck placed on page 95 of this thread (Nov 5, half way down the page entitled "TnC 81 Alternate Hum Cure.... "). All 8 of the preamps had very significantly decreased noise/buzz with the reorientation. Thank you Chuck!

Chuck's notes also prepared me for the loud 'Pop' that occurs when the mic sensitivity is switched between -50 & -56
"Yes this is exactly the spot where the additional gain stage gets switched in.
7th position up from fully counterclockwise.

This ONLY happens when the mic/line switch is in the "mic" position, so you may want to switch to the "line" position when rotating the switch past this point."

One 73 gave me no signal with the Mic impedance switch ( on the back of the unit) engaged in the HI position and gave me a buzzy signal in the LO position. Good reason to open up these units when you initially get them. I noticed one of the Molex plugs on the Mic/Line board was partially attached. Reseated it and Voila!, no buzz, nice signal with either HI or LO engaged.

One other 73 has a slight problem that I have not yet been able to remedy. When the Hi Pass switch is set to 50 Hz (with EQ IN) all signal is gone. Switch it Off or to any of the other settings and everything is fine. I'll have to look more closely at the soldering on the resistors placed on the switch.

Jeff,

Glad that you found my advice helpful. ! As for the HP filter, have you tried rapidly switching through the 50hz position to determine if the switch is simply not broken in yet?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN
Post by: matti on January 08, 2009, 06:15:06 AM

http://homerecording.com/bbs/showthread.php?t=180964&pag e=285

My message there is valid

Matti

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: organica on January 08, 2009, 07:34:14 AM

Hi Matti ,

please check your PM's .

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: seedyunderbelly.com on January 08, 2009, 09:17:24 AM

Looks Like you made it Andy! Damn you I lost 5 bucks on that bet..

Like you New Name too

What group buy stuff did you get?

j

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on January 08, 2009, 09:40:29 AM

Yeah! Andy's back, and he is OK!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: organica on January 08, 2009, 09:40:36 AM

Hi John (edit; & Terry !! ........ both posted at exactly 9:40 .. crazy ) ,

sorry that you lost that bet ! i did lose my appendix and a grapefruit sized cyst (8lbs !!!)was removed from my abdominal area . no cancer . it was a nightmare with a happy ending which happened quite suddenly . a life changing event i guarantee you .

group buy wise ..... i got this (look forward to trying things out in a couple of days as recovery mode will allow soon )

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: seedyunderbelly.com on January 08, 2009, 09:53:27 AM

Man I am Glad you are ok! That sounds scary.

Just check 'below that the those other 8 lb. grapefruits are still rocking in tandem- I would hate if they struck the wrong gold-

I have had a family member "lose" a cyst that sized she was so much more comfortable after

All J/K aside hope that you are fully better soon.
surgery blows.

I am psyched you have those mics Maybe one day if all the stars aligned we could play mic barbies sometime-

j

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: pete andrews on January 08, 2009, 11:19:39 AM

hey guys -

tim (smallfactory on these forums) came over my place last night during a vocal session we were doing and he brought one of his acmp-73's he just got in the mail. we figured we'd try it out and report our findings...

first - while i tracked the lead vox for the tune, tim had the 73 on the desk opened to make sure all the connecters were seated properly and gave it ye old quick look-see for any weirdness. all looked good.
after the lead vox track was done we hooked it up. we noted the popping when the 2nd gain stage kicked in... it was actually a big low buzz... like a synth bass... the position was marked lest he forget in the future.

the vocal i was doing that night was a male singer->peluso 2247le-> vintech x73i ->distressor -> RME ADI8 pro -> DP. monitoring was console->lucid 9624-> dynaudio bm6a's.

we did one pass of a BGV with that chain and then swapped out the vintech for the acmp and did another pass of the same line. hit playback and started listening to both. (note we did nothing with the EQ section)

thoughts: the acmp is very very similar to the x73i overall. both of us could hear the vintech was def. smoother and more "expensive" sounding (for lack of better descriptor). the acmp had a bit of a brittle upper mid and the highs were grainy next to the x73i... and wasn't *quite* as beefy... but it was darn close! when we told one of the other singers there the prices of the 2 units she was pretty stunned that there was that little difference... granted she's not an engineer... but still.
my feeling is that if you were to do 4 to 5 vox tracks with this and stack em up the mix would fight you as this grit added up.... i'd def. pick the vintech over it, but we were really impressed overall. tim's pumped for sure.
so there's our report... again - if anyone has any pair of these pre's that they don't want to bother with let me know via PM and i'll buy 'em from you.

-pete

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on January 08, 2009, 06:14:16 PM

I would have to agree. I spent a lot of time today trying to figure out how to get a good s/n otu of the 81. Turns out, if you turn the output down halfway, I was able to get the hiss and hum to a pretty good level. With that accomplished, I did a vocal shootout with a GT Brick.

Although the 81 and brick are different flavors, I would have to agree with the overall sound. A little brittle or "gritty" in the upper mid and high end. Not quite as rich sounding, not as much oomph in the midrange, not as smooth. I did a number of takes of the same line with different settings and ultimately the Brick one every time.

That said, the Brick doesn't have an EQ! Well, neither does the 81.... YET!!!!!

When I first got the 81, I put an ACM3 up for a trumpet with it and it was killer whereas the Brick sucked.

So not so hot for vocals, but great for trumpet and based on feedback I've been reading it seems to be pretty good on kick/snare.

I got them mainly for line-level EQ use, so ultimately my final judgement will have to wait for the big fix.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: sodderboy on January 10, 2009, 10:19:35 PM

So some unemployed elves and auto workers are helping Chance. . .
I got a green yes and my payment was answered in kind in less than a day, so, I am starting the Jeopardy countdown music.
To answer my question about cost percentage, my shippping to Lonk Island is 18% of equipment cost.
Mike

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on January 11, 2009, 12:55:34 PM

I....I....I......I'm stunned.....

....I just received and paid for my shipping invoice.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on January 11, 2009, 01:18:11 PM

Dan-O wrote on Sun, 11 January 2009 09:55

I....I....I......I'm stunned.....

....I just received and paid for my shipping invoice.

You're stunned? When I received the shipping info for eleven large boxes, I too was stunned. They will ship Monday or Tuesday

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on January 11, 2009, 05:24:55 PM

CHANCE wrote on Sun, 11 January 2009 13:18

Dan-O wrote on Sun, 11 January 2009 09:55

I....I....I......I'm stunned.....

....I just received and paid for my shipping invoice.

You're stunned? When I received the shipping info for eleven large boxes, I too was stunned. They will ship Monday or Tuesday

Yes well as I said originally in our email exchanges there was method to the madness. Or maybe just meth.....I can't remember.

Am I the largest order? I'd be surprised.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigbone on January 12, 2009, 08:03:20 PM

I got one ACM- 6802 for sale. i'm in montreal canada, PM me if interest .

thank you

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: plughead on January 13, 2009, 01:53:15 PM

Still waiting for my shipping invoice here...

Not looking good re: those 6802's - seen a few FS on the various bb's.

Is there an upgrade option for those mics? I have one coming, and considering modding it to be something I'd actually pull out and use regularly.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Thompson on January 13, 2009, 05:04:33 PM

Has anybody else had any problems with their ribbon mics?

I got 2 of the ACM 200s in my order, and one of them won't screw into the shockmount (seems the thread on the mic is improperly tapped) and exhibits an audible scraping of the ribbon against the magnet.

The second mic has visible ribbon sag.
I would like to know if replacement parts/mics can be shipped out

I emailed Chance about this about on 12/12/08 and haven't heard back. I am aware that his email program shat itself and also he's up to his ears in actual paying work. So I ask the rest of you, has anybody else had any problems with their ribbon mics?

thanks

Greg Thompson

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on January 13, 2009, 05:36:41 PM

BUMP.

compasspnt wrote on Thu, 13 November 2008 22:55

Great Group Buy News!

TNC announce Custom wound transformers for TNC microphones, at Group Buy Special Prices!

TNC have now arranged to offer transformers custom designed and hand wound for specific models of the TNC microphones. Also in the works are drop-in replacement electronics that will be designed to even better utilise the capabilities of the stock capsules, and also to integrate with certain of the custom transformers.

Transformers are designed and manufactured by AMI/TAB-Funkenwerk in Gaylord, Kansas, by Mr. Oliver Archut.

Electronics are being custom designed by Lucas Engineering technicians. They will be manufactured in the USA or the Bahamas, and will be available soon. We will also have available upgraded "pre-modified" microphones in each style, at some point in the near future.

TRANSFORMERS:

*Model ACM 1/2 ($75) This transformer is purposefully made for exact replacement in the ACM-1 or the ACM-2 ribbon mics.

*Model ACM3 ($65) Exact upgrade replacement for the ACM-3 ribbon mic.

(The stock ribbon mics all now share the same stock Chinese transformer. The replacement transformers have the same exact ratio, but the resonance and the high end response are tuned for each given mic.)

*Model T14-1200 ($75) Exact drop in replacement for stock ACM-1200. No electronics modifications necessary.

*Model T14-C12 ($75) Replacement transformer for ACM-1200, but can only be coupled with the custom C12-based electronics PC board upgrade (now in design by Lucas techs, but based on Oliver's original design parameters for the C12VR upgrade electronics).

(The T14-1200 transformers are based on the Hiller T14-C12 transformer (ratio 12 to 1), as used in early C12 mics, but have the ratio of 9 to 1 as used in the stock ACM-1200.)

*Model T47 ($85) Replacement transformer for ACM-1200 with U47-like transformer characteristics (BV8), but can only be coupled with the custom "47" electronics PC board upgrade (now in design by Lucas techs, and based on a simplified 47-inspired electronics circuit).

*Model T49 ($85) Replacement transformer for ACM-1200 with UM49-like transformer characteristics, but can only be coupled with the custom "49" electronics PC board upgrade (now in design by Lucas techs, based on a simplified 49-inspired electronics circuit).

*Model T67 ($90) Replacement transformer for ACM-1200 with U67-like transformer characteristics, but can only be coupled with the custom "67" electronics PC board upgrade (now in design by Lucas techs, based on a simplified 67-inspired electronics circuit).

(The 47-49-67 transformers are based on a Neumann-inspired transformer. They come in the three different ratios of 6:1 for 47-styled electronics, 10:1 for 49-styled electronics, and 7:1 / with feedback winding for 67-styled electronics.)

To order as part of the Group Buy, email to

tnc-transformers@compasspointstudios.com

Include name, shipping address, and payment information. Paypal capability is being worked out now, hopefully coming soon. For immediate orders, you can use a credit card.

We will try to answer questions, but be advised that our emails are going crazy, and there is so much to do on this "little" Group Buy that we have to focus first on shipments!

Please keep all commercial transactions off of the Forum.

All of this should make for a lot of fun and experimentation! We will try to put together a couple of youtube videos that show how to modify, and especially, how NOT to modify (ie, kill yourself).

Enjoy!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on January 13, 2009, 09:24:55 PM

Greg Thompson wrote on Tue, 13 January 2009 14:04

Has anybody else had any problems with their ribbon mics?

I got 2 of the ACM 200s in my order, and one of them won't screw into the shockmount (seems the thread on the mic is improperly tapped) and exhibits an audible scraping of the ribbon against the magnet.

The second mic has visible ribbon sag.
I would like to know if replacement parts/mics can be shipped out

I emailed Chance about this about on 12/12/08 and haven't heard back. I am aware that his email program shat itself and also he's up to his ears in actual paying work. So I ask the rest of you, has anybody else had any problems with their ribbon mics?

thanks

Greg Thompson

Hey Greg
It's so hard to reply much less read all the E-mails. I'll get this taken care of after everything has shipped. I only ask that when its announced that "all has shipped", remind me.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cameron_k on January 15, 2009, 07:30:54 PM

Does anyone have accurate circuit diagrams for the ACMP73 and ACMP84?? Please PM me or post them here for reference.

Cheers.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zunrize on January 16, 2009, 01:56:15 PM

Hey Terry,
I know you prefer the 47 mod on the ACM 1200, but did you have a chance to hear the rest yet, preferrably the 67?
And I know you're busy, but any idea on an e.t.a. on those kits?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on January 16, 2009, 03:59:20 PM

The "67-ish" one (Not to be confused with a REAL 67, just based on the principals) is the last one in line, and hasn't yet come to testing here. The C12-ish and 47-ish ones are here, are being used in session for real world testing now, and work and sound very good.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: maxim on January 16, 2009, 07:38:09 PM

"the principals"

school principals?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on January 16, 2009, 10:16:00 PM

maxim wrote on Fri, 16 January 2009 19:38

"the principals"

school principals?

They are princes. They are our pals.

Also highly principled.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on January 16, 2009, 10:33:13 PM

Sorry, of course I meant principles.

Should have written that on my stationary.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on January 16, 2009, 10:45:51 PM

No worries, Mr. Manning. Though such an error might effect the general perception of ones command of the language, it will have no such affect on your reputation here.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: maxim on January 16, 2009, 10:58:37 PM

(noone excepts the spanish inquisition)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: littlehat on January 17, 2009, 02:18:03 AM

maxim wrote on Fri, 16 January 2009 19:38

"the principals"

school principals?

"I brought my pencil..."

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: MagnetoSound on January 17, 2009, 06:41:50 AM

maxim wrote on Sat, 17 January 2009 03:58

(noone excepts the spanish inquisition)

Peter Noone?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on January 17, 2009, 09:09:15 AM

MagnetoSound wrote on Sat, 17 January 2009 06:41

maxim wrote on Sat, 17 January 2009 03:58

(noone excepts the spanish inquisition)

Peter Noone?

That was unexpected.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on January 17, 2009, 09:46:30 AM

But i like it alot.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on January 17, 2009, 01:56:37 PM

Bill_Urick wrote on Fri, 16 January 2009 19:45

No worries, Mr. Manning. Though such an error might effect the general perception of ones command of the language, it will have no such affect on your reputation here.

As might the omission of an apostrophe. Don't you mean "one's command"?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on January 17, 2009, 04:51:04 PM

When criticizing the spelling and grammar of others, always proofread carefully to be sure you accidentally any out.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on January 17, 2009, 07:24:26 PM

Berolzheimer wrote on Sat, 17 January 2009 13:56

Bill_Urick wrote on Fri, 16 January 2009 19:45

No worries, Mr. Manning. Though such an error might effect the general perception of ones command of the language, it will have no such affect on your reputation here.

As might the omission of an apostrophe. Don't you mean "one's command"?

He probly mint that exactly, alot.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on January 17, 2009, 08:11:48 PM

Berolzheimer wrote on Sat, 17 January 2009 13:56

Bill_Urick wrote on Fri, 16 January 2009 19:45

No worries, Mr. Manning. Though such an error might effect the general perception of ones command of the language, it will have no such affect on your reputation here.

As might the omission of an apostrophe. Don't you mean "one's command"?

That is the crux of the biscuit, is it not?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on January 17, 2009, 08:25:04 PM

Berolzheimer wrote on Sat, 17 January 2009 13:56

Bill_Urick wrote on Fri, 16 January 2009 19:45

No worries, Mr. Manning. Though such an error might effect the general perception of ones command of the language, it will have no such affect on your reputation here.

As might the omission of an apostrophe. Don't you mean "one's command"?

Was the omission of the apostrophe merely a ruse to distract from a more egregious (and deliberate) error that perhaps escaped your attention?

(I'll see your cool and raise you two!)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on January 17, 2009, 11:00:07 PM

I have been slacking on the invoicing due to NAMM I have a TON of invoices that are ready and will be doing tomorrow (Sunday) afternoon. These will be mostly Aus orders.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on January 18, 2009, 01:46:07 AM

Bill_Urick wrote on Sat, 17 January 2009 17:25

Berolzheimer wrote on Sat, 17 January 2009 13:56

Bill_Urick wrote on Fri, 16 January 2009 19:45

No worries, Mr. Manning. Though such an error might effect the general perception of ones command of the language, it will have no such affect on your reputation here.

As might the omission of an apostrophe. Don't you mean "one's command"?

Was the omission of the apostrophe merely a ruse to distract from a more egregious (and deliberate) error that perhaps escaped your attention?

(I'll see your cool and raise you two!)

It may have had that effect.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cameron_k on January 19, 2009, 06:24:20 PM

CHANCE wrote on Sun, 18 January 2009 14:00

I have been slacking on the invoicing due to NAMM I have a TON of invoices that are ready and will be doing tomorrow (Sunday) afternoon. These will be mostly Aus orders.

Thanks Chance, invoice received and paid within 237 microseconds. All buttons in. Fast attack and release. Low threshold - for excitement.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Rod Affleck on January 20, 2009, 08:30:18 AM

CHANCE wrote on Sun, 18 January 2009 00:00

I have been slacking on the invoicing due to NAMM I have a TON of invoices that are ready and will be doing tomorrow (Sunday) afternoon. These will be mostly Aus orders.

Just an FYI--for international orders it's critical to get the declared value correct on the customs forms. For whatever reason my two ACM-310s were declared as being worth $400 instead of $170; this meant I had to pay about $60 duty on them instead of $25.

Hopefully this will be a no big deal for me as I should be able to get a refund on the difference from Canada Border Services, but the fewer people who have to go through that ordeal the better.

Once all the shipments are out I'll start haranguing you for some kind of official-looking paper invoice/receipt that I can show to the government.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on January 20, 2009, 10:31:20 AM

If you log into the user console you can print your invoice.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on January 20, 2009, 06:18:24 PM

evil robot wrote on Tue, 20 January 2009 05:30

CHANCE wrote on Sun, 18 January 2009 00:00

I have been slacking on the invoicing due to NAMM I have a TON of invoices that are ready and will be doing tomorrow (Sunday) afternoon. These will be mostly Aus orders.

Just an FYI--for international orders it's critical to get the declared value correct on the customs forms. For whatever reason my two ACM-310s were declared as being worth $400 instead of $170; this meant I had to pay about $60 duty on them instead of $25.

Hopefully this will be a no big deal for me as I should be able to get a refund on the difference from Canada Border Services, but the fewer people who have to go through that ordeal the better.

Once all the shipments are out I'll start haranguing you for some kind of official-looking paper invoice/receipt that I can show to the government.

Wow, I didn't know that. My thoughts were that if they would happen to lose them you would be reimbursed. With Fed Ex domestic, the more the value it seems the more care is taken

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on January 20, 2009, 06:27:10 PM

Yeah, with International, you have to walk a fine line between possible recovery value, and Customs' costs at the user's end.

Here, it eats us up.

I have been defaulting to trusting Fedex not to lose stuff, and saving where possible here.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Hallams on January 20, 2009, 06:28:26 PM

Had a phone call yesteday that my mics had arrived. Yeuw!!! Im on our annual summer holiday at Wilsons Promentary NationalPark, surfing every day and catching plenty of fish.....makes having to wait to see the mics just acceptable.Lucky the local store has a coin operated internet computer so i can stay in touch with the outside world.
Thanks heaps to chance and the others involved for the mics . Can't wait to plug em in warm em up and start tracking..... ..

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Ozzy on January 20, 2009, 06:34:20 PM

Hi Chance

Will you be declaring the correct value on outstanding International orders?

Regards

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cameron_k on January 20, 2009, 11:31:21 PM

Australia works on a system whereby the total cost of the goods is added to the total cost of shipping, then converted to Australian dollars (if multiple parcels are involved they are considered to be part of a single shipment). If the goods + ship cost is greater than $1000AU, then 2 separate taxes/duties are applied. These bump up the purchase price considerably.

Chance, I know you're busy at the mo, but assuming my parcels haven't shipped as yet (order number 200911915515, due to be shipped on 22 January), could I please request that the valuation on the customs declaration is correct/not over-inflated? As it is, with true costs of goods and shipping, and a crap exchange rate, I'm a whisker under the $1000AU customs duty/tax threshold.

Just trying to avoid paying an additional few hundred on my purchase.

Cheers.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on January 21, 2009, 09:59:02 PM

cameron_k wrote on Tue, 20 January 2009 20:31

Australia works on a system whereby the total cost of the goods is added to the total cost of shipping, then converted to Australian dollars (if multiple parcels are involved they are considered to be part of a single shipment). If the goods + ship cost is greater than $1000AU, then 2 separate taxes/duties are applied. These bump up the purchase price considerably.

Chance, I know you're busy at the mo, but assuming my parcels haven't shipped as yet (order number 200911915515, due to be shipped on 22 January), could I please request that the valuation on the customs declaration is correct/not over-inflated? As it is, with true costs of goods and shipping, and a crap exchange rate, I'm a whisker under the $1000AU customs duty/tax threshold.

Just trying to avoid paying an additional few hundred on my purchase.

Cheers.

Yes now that I know this I started lowering the value. Everyone overwellmingly wanted USPS for international shipping, but many international orders that could have been shipped in one box with Fed Ex, has to be shipped in 3 boxes with USPS because of the size limits.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: tunetown on January 21, 2009, 10:30:39 PM

CHANCE wrote on Thu, 22 January 2009 13:59

cameron_k wrote on Tue, 20 January 2009 20:31

Australia works on a system whereby the total cost of the goods is added to the total cost of shipping, then converted to Australian dollars (if multiple parcels are involved they are considered to be part of a single shipment). If the goods + ship cost is greater than $1000AU, then 2 separate taxes/duties are applied. These bump up the purchase price considerably.

Chance, I know you're busy at the mo, but assuming my parcels haven't shipped as yet (order number 200911915515, due to be shipped on 22 January), could I please request that the valuation on the customs declaration is correct/not over-inflated? As it is, with true costs of goods and shipping, and a crap exchange rate, I'm a whisker under the $1000AU customs duty/tax threshold.

Just trying to avoid paying an additional few hundred on my purchase.

Cheers.

Yes now that I know this I started lowering the value. Everyone overwellmingly wanted USPS for international shipping, but many international orders that could have been shipped in one box with Fed Ex, has to be shipped in 3 boxes with USPS because of the size limits.

That would be great Chance. When you get to my order I would appreciate the same too. The poor Aussie Dollar crashed from almost parity to about 65 US cents. It would be great to keep the total order including shipping less than $1000 Aussie dollars.

Cheers

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: tunetown on January 21, 2009, 10:43:58 PM

Just checked and noticed the Green YES.

Invoice paid.

Looks like you might have a hard time keeping it under $1000 Aussie which is only $640USD at the moment. Just do the best you can. Spread them out one at a time if you like. I'm in no hurry.

Thanks for all your hard work.

Cheers

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cameron_k on January 21, 2009, 11:11:33 PM

Saint Chance to the rescue. Again!

A big, whole-hearted THANK-YOU to you, Mr Pataki.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: plughead on January 22, 2009, 04:48:24 PM

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 21 January 2009 21:59

Yes now that I know this I started lowering the value. Everyone overwellmingly wanted USPS for international shipping, but many international orders that could have been shipped in one box with Fed Ex, has to be shipped in 3 boxes with USPS because of the size limits.

Please, state 'actual value' (purchase price) for int'l (Canadian) orders.

As others mentioned, we will be charged tax(es)on dollar value amounts, so inflated value is a no no...

Finally invoiced for shipping, and I paid it minutes after our kid was born 40 hrs ago - now THAT's gotta be a first for a GB!

Looking forward to these items finally arriving!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (If Fed Ex loses your package)
Post by: bill obrecht on January 23, 2009, 10:46:21 AM

On 1/20, Chance wrote:

"My thoughts were that if they would happen to lose them you would be reimbursed."

"They" being Fed EX. "Them" your package(s).

Fed Ex did lose one of my packages - 4 mics. They won't reimburse me - they will
only reimburse Chance. He has to fill out the Ground Claim form (I've sent
it to Chance, but he is swamped with emails).

I tried claiming with Fed EX, and at first they said I could file the claim myself,
but ultimately the wrote me (12/22/2008) saying "..we are unable to
honor your request for a claim. FedEx's claims are handled with the Shipper,
unless special arrangements are made...."

So if Fed Ex loses your package( they don't deny losing mine) Chance has to file
for reimbursement.

Chamce, thanks for all the work you've done, and if you're just too busy that's OK,
(and it may be too late to file) but if you'd like another copy of the claim form, just
give the word and I'll send one off to you, with all details. Again, Thanks

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on January 23, 2009, 10:56:31 AM

PlugHead wrote on Thu, 22 January 2009 13:48

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 21 January 2009 21:59

Yes now that I know this I started lowering the value. Everyone overwellmingly wanted USPS for international shipping, but many international orders that could have been shipped in one box with Fed Ex, has to be shipped in 3 boxes with USPS because of the size limits.

Please, state 'actual value' (purchase price) for int'l (Canadian) orders.

As others mentioned, we will be charged tax(es)on dollar value amounts, so inflated value is a no no...

Finally invoiced for shipping, and I paid it minutes after our kid was born 40 hrs ago - now THAT's gotta be a first for a GB!

Looking forward to these items finally arriving!

Hey, congratulations on ALL the new arrivals!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Rod Affleck on January 23, 2009, 11:07:54 AM

PlugHead wrote on Thu, 22 January 2009 17:48

Finally invoiced for shipping, and I paid it minutes after our kid was born 40 hrs ago - now THAT's gotta be a first for a GB!

Congrats! Any unpleasant noises coming from it? Planning on doing any mods?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on January 23, 2009, 09:36:08 PM

Berolzheimer wrote on Fri, 23 January 2009 07:56

PlugHead wrote on Thu, 22 January 2009 13:48

CHANCE wrote on Wed, 21 January 2009 21:59

Yes now that I know this I started lowering the value. Everyone overwellmingly wanted USPS for international shipping, but many international orders that could have been shipped in one box with Fed Ex, has to be shipped in 3 boxes with USPS because of the size limits.

Please, state 'actual value' (purchase price) for int'l (Canadian) orders.

As others mentioned, we will be charged tax(es)on dollar value amounts, so inflated value is a no no...

Finally invoiced for shipping, and I paid it minutes after our kid was born 40 hrs ago - now THAT's gotta be a first for a GB!

Looking forward to these items finally arriving!

Hey, congratulations on ALL the new arrivals!

I should have all the orders going to Australia invoiced this weekend. I was planning to do a lot today but, speaking of "New arrivals", my second grandson came down the chute at 10am this morning and I had to babysit the first one.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: redddog on January 23, 2009, 09:45:08 PM

HHHHEEEEEYYYY!!!!!!!

Awesome Chance!!

Congradulations Bro!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on January 24, 2009, 11:22:49 AM

Wow, everyone's popping out kids... congrats Chance! I just became an uncle on the 20th LOL. I'm trying to pick out what my nephew's first microphone will be......

Back on topic... has anyone confirmed if simply moving the Xformer outside the chasis with long extender cables will fix all the buzzing problems?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on January 24, 2009, 11:43:19 AM

chris carter wrote on Sat, 24 January 2009 11:22

Wow, everyone's popping out kids... congrats Chance! I just became an uncle on the 20th LOL. I'm trying to pick out what my nephew's first microphone will be......

Back on topic... has anyone confirmed if simply moving the Xformer outside the chasis with long extender cables will fix all the buzzing problems?

I have confirmed that, but you will also need to swap out the transistors. Try moving the transformer first. I found that hanging it out the back helped but making extended cables fixed it (along with swapping the transistors.).

Cheers,
J

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: recordinghacks on January 26, 2009, 05:22:25 PM

I've read about rotating and shielding the power supply within the ACMPs, but I haven't seen much about moving it outside the 1U case.

I had an idea today that might be even better -- buying a decent 3rd-party external PSU and wiring the ACMP to work with it instead of its native supply.

For example, Chameleon Labs sells a half-rackspace PSU (mounted in a 1U case) that will power two of their original model 7602 pre/EQ. I don't know the DC output voltage, and the folks at Chameleon don't seem to answer pre-sales tech support emails in my limited experience, so I'm hoping someone here can chime in with relevant experience.

Maybe it's easy to relocate the ACMPs' PSUs into external housings... but if not, might the Chameleon unit be a reasonable upgrade to address PSU-induced hum?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: floxe on January 26, 2009, 05:42:19 PM

Quote:

I should have all the orders going to Australia invoiced this weekend.

i hope austria comes next after australia

Quote:

evil robot wrote on Tue, 20 January 2009 05:30

CHANCE wrote on Sun, 18 January 2009 00:00

I have been slacking on the invoicing due to NAMM I have a TON of invoices that are ready and will be doing tomorrow (Sunday) afternoon. These will be mostly Aus orders.

Just an FYI--for international orders it's critical to get the declared value correct on the customs forms. For whatever reason my two ACM-310s were declared as being worth $400 instead of $170; this meant I had to pay about $60 duty on them instead of $25.

Hopefully this will be a no big deal for me as I should be able to get a refund on the difference from Canada Border Services, but the fewer people who have to go through that ordeal the better.

Once all the shipments are out I'll start haranguing you for some kind of official-looking paper invoice/receipt that I can show to the government.

Wow, I didn't know that. My thoughts were that if they would happen to lose them you would be reimbursed. With Fed Ex domestic, the more the value it seems the more care is taken

yep - it's not like domestic shipping - the higher the value, the higher the taxes we have to pay.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on January 26, 2009, 07:07:32 PM

I assume Chance didn't get through all the Australian orders, as I still don't have my invoice.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: crazydoc on January 26, 2009, 08:07:33 PM

recordinghacks wrote on Mon, 26 January 2009 22:22

I've read about rotating and shielding the power supply within the ACMPs, but I haven't seen much about moving it outside the 1U case.

I had an idea today that might be even better -- buying a decent 3rd-party external PSU and wiring the ACMP to work with it instead of its native supply.

For example, Chameleon Labs sells a half-rackspace PSU (mounted in a 1U case) that will power two of their original model 7602 pre/EQ. I don't know the DC output voltage, and the folks at Chameleon don't seem to answer pre-sales tech support emails in my limited experience, so I'm hoping someone here can chime in with relevant experience.

Maybe it's easy to relocate the ACMPs' PSUs into external housings... but if not, might the Chameleon unit be a reasonable upgrade to address PSU-induced hum?
The ACMP 81's have 4 dc power supplies - two 24v (one for the output amp and one for the preamp and eq boards), a 48v for phantom, and a +/-12v for the LED drivers. It's unlikely one could find an outboard PS with similar characteristics, though I'm not familiar with the Chameleon units.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on January 26, 2009, 10:58:17 PM

Greg Dixon wrote on Mon, 26 January 2009 16:07

I assume Chance didn't get through all the Australian orders, as I still don't have my invoice.

Hey Greg. For some reason USPS has been charging me twice for all the labels I processed this weekend and I am now overdrawn by over $1K. I have a seperate account for this and when a payment is made into this account, a payment is made to USPS from this same account, so everything should balance out. I will be calling USPS in the morning.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cameron_k on January 27, 2009, 12:14:00 AM

Chance, unsure if this has anything to do with your current situ with USPS, but either your packing people or USPS doubled up on my shipping notifications recently. What I mean is, for the two packages you mailed to me last week, I received four shipping notifications from USPS. These were emailed on the same day, but a few hours apart - two in the morning, two in the afternoon.

I've since checked their package tracking page, and only two packages are headed my way. This is correct. I figured that USPS or your packing people had made an error with the first lot and cancelled those and reissued another two. Just guessing man.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Nizzle on January 27, 2009, 01:07:46 PM

Just wondering if there is any new news on the Txfrmrs and board for the ACM mics? Terry?

-t

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on January 27, 2009, 01:50:56 PM

Oliver is working this week on matching the transformers exactly to the new boards. Things becoming available very soon. Sorry for the delays! It is a LOT of work.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on January 27, 2009, 07:18:14 PM

cameron_k wrote on Mon, 26 January 2009 21:14

Chance, unsure if this has anything to do with your current situ with USPS, but either your packing people or USPS doubled up on my shipping notifications recently. What I mean is, for the two packages you mailed to me last week, I received four shipping notifications from USPS. These were emailed on the same day, but a few hours apart - two in the morning, two in the afternoon.

I've since checked their package tracking page, and only two packages are headed my way. This is correct. I figured that USPS or your packing people had made an error with the first lot and cancelled those and reissued another two. Just guessing man.

Yes! Like I mentioned, I print one set of labels and got charged for two sets. Now I must wait 10 days for a refund. I'll still be invoicing and shipping, so there's no delay.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cameron_k on January 28, 2009, 01:15:56 AM

Seeking an accurate copy of the ACMP73 schematic/circuit diagram.

Please PM me if you have one.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: recordinghacks on January 28, 2009, 11:41:23 AM

I'd like to get the ACMP-84 schematic. I haven't seen that posted anywhere.

Before anybody asks, here's a download link for the ACMP-81 schematic in PDF format:
http://www.sendspace.com/file/osjykd

Mods for the 81 are the primary topic of this thread:
http://www.prodigy-pro.com/diy/index.php?topic=27791.0
(although I hope and suspect the other models will get coverage eventually too)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on January 31, 2009, 03:13:12 PM

WOW! We're almost finished shipping.
Two things of concern with international orders. When getting shipping quotes, I have discovered that when I actually print the labels, the shipping charge is sometimes more than the original quote! Check your user console for additional payments. Since the quote (which is what you paid) comprises the bulk of the shipping cost, I am shipping anyway and trust you to pay the balance. It will show "shipped" in your users console, as well as a balance due. I figured if you guys trusted me with all your money for so long, I can trust you for the balance due.
The second item of concern is that quite a few have paid for shipping twice. I caught this while balancing the books. Some of you have told me that they did this by mistake and others haven't mentioned it. Once everything is shipped, I will see how to reverse payment to everyone that has mistakenly done this.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Barkley McKay on January 31, 2009, 04:06:41 PM

CHANCE wrote on Sat, 31 January 2009 20:13

WOW! We're almost finished shipping.
Two things of concern with international orders. When getting shipping quotes, I have discovered that when I actually print the labels, the shipping charge is sometimes more than the original quote! Check your user console for additional payments. Since the quote (which is what you paid) comprises the bulk of the shipping cost, I am shipping anyway and trust you to pay the balance. It will show "shipped" in your users console, as well as a balance due. I figured if you guys trusted me with all your money for so long, I can trust you for the balance due.
The second item of concern is that quite a few have paid for shipping twice. I caught this while balancing the books. Some of you have told me that they did this by mistake and others haven't mentioned it. Once everything is shipped, I will see how to reverse payment to everyone that has mistakenly done this.

Hi Chance,

Are you now processing orders to the UK?

I checked my console and nothing yet. Just thought I'd check in case my order has been missed in the process. Its around the $1500 mark...

cheers

Barks

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: floxe on January 31, 2009, 05:23:32 PM

Quote:

WOW! We're almost finished shipping.

almost finished means how many are still missing? i guess lots of european orders, right?

i'm still waiting too.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on January 31, 2009, 06:19:41 PM

Yes next week we'll be invoicing. Hungry, Isreal, Denmark, and the UK. Right now I am still waiting for refunds for the double charging by the USPS.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: floxe on February 01, 2009, 06:55:24 AM

don't forget about austria please

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: synthi on February 01, 2009, 07:51:07 AM

...And Spain, me and other people I know in Spain we are all waiting for the invoice yet!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: plughead on February 01, 2009, 12:16:14 PM

I'm going to open up the ACM-900 and take a look - anyone know what tube and XFRMR this mic uses?

It's not listed on the brief specs on Chance's website/mic list...

Thx!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TheDan on February 01, 2009, 02:52:07 PM

from way back in the thread somewhere:

TheDan wrote on Sat, 13 December 2008 12:44

compasspnt wrote on Sat, 13 December 2008 08:16

rjd2 wrote on Fri, 12 December 2008 14:12

can anyone tell me the tube type in the acm-900? i cant read the value, and it doesnt say on chance's site in the description. wanna look into possible upgrades. thanks much.

Not sure. I will try to find out. Was wondering that as well.

Surely it's a 12A-something...

its actually some type of chinese branded 6j1. 7-pin, mini.

NOT a 12Axx

edit: here's some info about that tube: http://recforums.prosoundweb.com/index.php/m/336418/0/

dunno about the transformer.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on February 01, 2009, 03:11:07 PM

I hope to send Oliver a 900 soon. The mic holds its own pretty well as is, but we all know that the weak link in China mics are their Xfrmrs. It will be exciting to see how it performs with 2 quality xfrmrs

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Nick Sevilla on February 01, 2009, 03:29:23 PM

AC 1200 mic report.

So far I like it quite a bit. I did the two day tube burn in and I have recorded ac gtr and some vocals. I'm still learning where the best spot in the mics capture area, where the mic records the best. It does tend to overload easier than other tube mics, so I tend to place the sources a few inches further, and it is actually pleasing to do so.

I don't think I'll be modding mine, it seems to do a great job, plus I already have a large mic collection, so this mic complements it nicely.

Maybe I'll get a second one, if there are any left over or someone is not happy with theirs and wants to get rid of their mic.

Cheers

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Paul G on February 01, 2009, 05:36:47 PM

PlugHead wrote on Sun, 01 February 2009 12:16

I'm going to open up the ACM-900 and take a look - anyone know what tube and XFRMR this mic uses?

It's not listed on the brief specs on Chance's website/mic list...

Thx!
Thanks, I'll be waiting for your report. I haven't had the time, (or nerve) to open mine yet.

Paul

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: okgb on February 02, 2009, 01:27:09 PM

Good & bad report

Recieved two of my three parcels today ,
[ 2 73's , 2 amc - 100's , 1- amc 900
and 1 amc 200 [ subed for the 300 i ordered ]

As often the case u.s.p.s. straight to my door ,
no taxes or duties [ marking other X , helps
and they weren't overvalued , thanks ] Fairly
quickly too , didn't seem to sit in customs
u.s.p.s. tracking may end once it hits international customs
as the site still said in customs but they arrived at my door , After shipping a 50lb gtr amp , the pres seemed light .

update , once i signed for my packages , then the U.s.p.s.
website updated and notified me [ which of course i knew ]

Worst offender is the AMC-200 , which was subbed for the
AMC-300 I Ordered is unsuable , having an amount of hiss higher than signal , proportionate to gain level , but always
higher , What can we do about this Chance ?
[ i know wait til all the orders are shipped ] in the meantime anyone have any idea's ?

One of the 73's seems good out of the box , the other has a slight broadband buzz [ will do the xister mod ]

the two 100's seem to sound pretty good , not too bright
consistent to each other .

the AMC 900 , is a little hissy & dull , not unusable depending
on what's getting recorded , hard to tell if it is normal and
in spec or not .

Any comments on the mics for those who already have [ & use ] them ?

thanks & regards Greg

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: okgb on February 02, 2009, 03:53:08 PM

Can't get onto the mic page where we originally ordered from ,
but i thought that the acm 300 i ordered was an active ribbon
and the acm 200 is not ?
[ i should say i popped the bottom off to look for anything obvious and didn't see the electronics ??? ]

Also mic clips with the acm 100 , almost useless plastic junk
[ there's a little lever on the side , seems to do nothing ]

To retro who asked , the customs form has several boxes ,
gift , comercial , sample , other

obviously some of those they won't believe and some they may tax
it's been my experience values less than 20.00 don't get taxed ,
but marking the other box with higher values often goes through
as well , not sure how they decide and when stuff gets spot
checked , not being sent with an invoice helps as well i'd think .

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: PookyNMR on February 02, 2009, 04:30:47 PM

CHANCE wrote on Sat, 31 January 2009 16:19

Yes next week we'll be invoicing. Hungry, Isreal, Denmark, and the UK. Right now I am still waiting for refunds for the double charging by the USPS.

Are you done Canada? My user console still shows nothing.

No complaints - just making sure my order isn't lost.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: plughead on February 02, 2009, 05:48:20 PM

TheDan wrote on Sun, 01 February 2009 14:52

from way back in the thread somewhere:

TheDan wrote on Sat, 13 December 2008 12:44

compasspnt wrote on Sat, 13 December 2008 08:16

rjd2 wrote on Fri, 12 December 2008 14:12

can anyone tell me the tube type in the acm-900? i cant read the value, and it doesnt say on chance's site in the description. wanna look into possible upgrades. thanks much.

Not sure. I will try to find out. Was wondering that as well.

Surely it's a 12A-something...

its actually some type of chinese branded 6j1. 7-pin, mini.

NOT a 12Axx

edit: here's some info about that tube: http://recforums.prosoundweb.com/index.php/m/336418/0/

dunno about the transformer.

Thx!

Looks like 2 transformers in there?!?

The tube is virtually unreadable/unidentifiable (by me!) and is not a sub-miniature, but seems to be a standard size unit, but is strapped in with 2 X soldered (black wrapped) wire across it's middle.

Anyone know exactly what replacement tube fit's this mic, AND - can we replace the tube without destroying/breaking the soldered straps?

I'll snap a pic of it later to display the innards...

thx,

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on February 02, 2009, 06:51:06 PM

PlugHead wrote on Mon, 02 February 2009 17:48

Anyone know exactly what replacement tube fit's this mic, AND - can we replace the tube without destroying/breaking the soldered straps?

If you never take the opportunity to break it then you'll never get the opportunity to fix it.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rodabod on February 02, 2009, 07:18:24 PM

PlugHead wrote on Mon, 02 February 2009 22:48

Looks like 2 transformers in there?!?

One for ribbon step-up to grid, and one for the usual balancing and step-down at the output.

If the valve is close to an EF95 then you should be able to find other similar "equivalents". On teh other hand, the standard valve may be completely fine as it is.

Roddy

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: plughead on February 02, 2009, 07:25:03 PM

rodabod wrote on Mon, 02 February 2009 19:18

PlugHead wrote on Mon, 02 February 2009 22:48

Looks like 2 transformers in there?!?

One for ribbon step-up to grid, and one for the usual balancing and step-down at the output.

If the valve is close to an EF95 then you should be able to find other similar "equivalents". On teh other hand, the standard valve may be completely fine as it is.

Roddy

Great info Roddy - thank you!

I read the lettering as:
78 6J 1 - the 78 is printed higher (above to left) of the 6J, and the 1 is a guess as I can't pry the wires far enough to verify.

Here's a pic, tho not very helpful:

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: okgb on February 03, 2009, 12:16:24 AM

Hey chance , can't seem to open the microphone page
from your site .
And i have to figure out what to do with the unusable acm 200
i recievced .

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: okgb on February 03, 2009, 08:37:30 AM

Hey Chance have you been in contact with the chinese recently ?

Clearly there's a high percentage of non working gear , and rather than wait for exact numbers ,
we may have to play their game and start building a case and leverage / presure

o.k. Mr chance all the product is shipped out

Mr Factory , We have a problem over half the product is defective , your quality control has failed us ,
how can we do more business and send more money to you if we get non working equipment ?
you need to fix the problems and sent replacement parts
right away

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on February 03, 2009, 08:58:38 AM

BTW, the percentage of "non-working gear" is not high at all.

Most of their stuff has worked fine.

There are some issues, to be sure, and those will be investigated.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: okgb on February 03, 2009, 09:18:28 AM

O.k. I'm at 50% myself and still a couple of preamps to come
but clearly their QC , was inadequate if at all ?

No one ever replied to the fact that some shipping delay
was blamed on pres not passing QC , but then still getting pres
with problems , was that their excuse ? did they check any of
them or even spot check ?

perhaps it would be a good idea to start sooner than later ,
surveying the end user to see what the numbers really are ?
and have those numbers to negotiate with ?

If it takes a while , but as many have receivced their goods ,
you could start gathering the data now , that would help your
business right ? and also define the customer base and maybe
instill a sense of integrity ?

Do you expect you can keep them accountable and make good ,
on the goods ?

And what would you call having to replace transisters on
every preamp ?

regards Greg

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: crazydoc on February 03, 2009, 11:43:16 AM

compasspnt wrote on Tue, 03 February 2009 13:58

BTW, the percentage of "non-working gear" is not high at all.

Most of their stuff has worked fine.

From what I know personally, and what I have read on the boards, this is simply not true. I received 3 ACMP81's and 1 ACMP 73 - not one has a usable eq out of the box because of the noise issues. One of the 81's mic preamp stage has a very high noise floor.

I've not had time to check the mics (for working on the preamp issues,) except one ACM100 which sounds fine, and one ACM200 which has intermittent motor-boating. Now apparently there are noise issues popping up with the phantom powered ribbons.

I certainly went into this buy knowing it was a crap shoot, especially in light of the lack of due diligence in evaluating the prototypes. I have no issues with what I got - I'm happy as a pig in shit. I enjoy building and troubleshooting electronic equipment more than I enjoy using it. But most others that bought this stuff are not of like mind.

Of course, there may be many out there that got working equipment, and we've not heard much from them because of their satisfaction. But I agree with okgb above that a poll or survey is certainly in order, to see what the issues are and their prevalence, in case there is any recourse from the manufacturer (which I highly doubt.)

I have no issue with Chance over this - I'm sure he was honest and up front about this whole deal, and pretty much got duped due to his inexperience in business matters. I really feel for him in the way this is turning out, and hopefully we can come up with expedient fixes that are not going to be a burden for anyone involved.

But from where I stand, regarding the denial of many issues with the equipment, it certainly looks like the Emperor has no clothes.

Peter Wilcox

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on February 03, 2009, 04:31:05 PM

Hey

I just made a HUGE blunder. I am on my daughter's computer right now, and here's what happened:

I have been having a problem with the USPS click and ship labeling. For every label I printed, I was charged twice and have to wait 10 days for a refund. After MANY calls to USPS, we discovered that Safari will not work right and the latest Firefox is recommended. I had the previous version. I tried DL and installing the latest version of FF but it wouldn't install. After more research I discovered the latest version of FF will not work with OSX (10-3-9). but will work with Tiger. OK, so I went out and got Tiger, I inserted the first disk, and got an error message. Then it hit me, I didn't back up before I tried to install Tiger.

All my shipping data, bookmarks etc. I think the first install disc is usually a format the drive disc. I pulled out the HD and my son in law has a program that reads MAC on his PC and everything is there, but I can't get my G4 to even boot on it. I have an appointment at the Apple store tomorrow morning and hope they can figure this out.

I HATE USPS, but it was my error for not backing up this data.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on February 03, 2009, 05:36:29 PM

one must be very careful when messing with system installs....

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on February 03, 2009, 05:51:37 PM

As long as you can see it on the other computer, copy everything to another drive before you do anything to that system drive. Don't worry, it sounds like all that info is intact, but back it up now to be safe. And don't let that PC do anything to that drive other than copy from it!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on February 03, 2009, 06:39:57 PM

I just realized that everything was backed up on the other HD that was in the computer. I just have to do some organizing as everything is now in a different place. I am concerned about my MAC mail and all the saved and read messages like payment received messages that I was going to print the labels from. I used to have outlook express and always lost everything and someone here recommended using the MAC mail. I just don't know how to locate all the saved messages as well as everything else. My mail is not working and is asking to fill out all that outgoing incoming pop data. Before I do that, I want to be cautious not to overwrite anything.
(I still hate USPS)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: sodderboy on February 03, 2009, 07:05:06 PM

First, thank you Chance for the opportunity to participate in this. I owe you a great dinner at the least! NYC AES perhaps?

I got a 1200 and a 73 and both work great. I am using them in my tech shop to test other equipment. Later I will be bringing them to different studios, first to marvel at the price, and then to compare to other like equipment. The 1200 package alone is crazy cool. It is usable as is, or an incredible platform for experimentation. I think that it is a squeaky wheel situation that makes it look like "a lot of the stuff does not work".

This was a total experiment on everyone's part, even the manufacturer it seems. If you want guarantees, go to Sweetwater or Sitar Center. If you were waiting to do a huge tracking session with all your stuff right out of the box, you deluded yourself. Welcome to wholesale import/export. I like the group buy, group fix vibe.

Chance, if you are ever crazy enough to do this again, just imagine how much "back-office support" you can hire if you raise the prices by 25%. Life is short. Please add me to your "wanna do it again, and can you help me somehow?" list. Thank you again for the ride.
Mike

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: okgb on February 03, 2009, 07:29:35 PM

I'm happy to have them and didn't expect them to be great ,
although i did expect them to work .

The curious choice of almost random communication is
well , curious . but , say a little more of it would be helpful
sin of omission ?
Allot of questions get ignored when an answer is all they need

In the can i help dept . the smarter guys are coming up with
fixes and my time and a couple of transisters is no problem or unexpected . After someone mentioned fedex changing their border
policy , i volenteered to have a go [ u.s.p.s. did btw come straight my door with no taxes or duties , still waiting for the
3rd of 3 boxes ]

I'll use the gear for my own material [ don't trust it yet for
paying sessions ] but that suits me as i can rent out my better stuff and still have something to record with for myself.

keep up all the work everyone ?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on February 03, 2009, 07:51:27 PM

8 mics and 2 73's, all work flawless!

Chance, when all this is done come on down to da Bahamas mon!
You need a vacation and I owe you a big one.

Thanks again.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: littlehat on February 04, 2009, 01:03:17 AM

I got seven pieces.
All worked to or past my expectations.
NO issues with any pieces.
The 73s are the best pre for the money I know of, period.

I will participate in the next GB... no brainer.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on February 04, 2009, 08:29:51 AM

compasspnt wrote on Tue, 03 February 2009 08:58

BTW, the percentage of "non-working gear" is not high at all.

Most of their stuff has worked fine.

There are some issues, to be sure, and those will be investigated.

I can only speak for my order:

6 each of the pres. I only had time to go through the 73's and 84's so far

2 have 48v issues, 1 DOA, 1 has a face plate on so crooked it can't be mounted. ALL have the EQ buzz...

Take away the buzz problem that's 25% of the 12 I've gone through. With the buzz 100%. Can't wait to test the 81's.........

Of the 4 ACM 583's, 2 have signal problems and don't function in bidirectional at all.

I will say I have many more pieces to go through yet but so far that's not generally acceptable QC and reflects poorly on the factories involved. Not on Chance or Terry however.

Not going to review anything yet, but will say that "some" of the 6 models of mics I ordered are VERY good. They have even been preferred over high end faves in some applications. Take that how ever you'd like.

If it wasn't for the issues the pre's are DYNAMITE for the $$. EQ included. DYNAMITE for the $$.

Not attempting to stir anything here. Just a comment on the QC %.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: okgb on February 04, 2009, 08:47:51 AM

For reference here is my unusable acm 200 , i opened it up to see if there was anything obvious , but not
I presume that to be goop covered surface mount electronics ,
would appear nothing can be done except wait to return it .

the shock mounts for the ribbons were quite nice however , fairly newman like

Anyone interested ? i think i paid 85.00 for it

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigbone on February 04, 2009, 09:52:13 AM

Looking for a pair of 1200 if you don't like yours.........PM please

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Tom L on February 04, 2009, 10:06:34 AM

okgb wrote on Wed, 04 February 2009 04:47

the shock mounts for the ribbons were quite nice however, fairly newman like

???

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: okgb on February 04, 2009, 10:12:52 AM

What you don't like the 200 ? how about 80.00

I don't have any 1200's thanks

And Yes that was the intended spelling for the nemesis
assume that pronounciation as well
[ usually brings out the mic snobs ]
but the shockmounts are nice [ start to think what else you can use them with , get extra's for your real Neumann's

thanks for the pic ,

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on February 04, 2009, 10:49:27 AM

TnC,
Here's some info for the manufacturer.
If you end up setting up some polls or another thread to collect meaningful numbers for the manufacturer I'll re-post my information there.

------------ START -----------
I ordered and received:

4x 81's
2x 1200's
2x 310's
1x 900

1.
The mics are as expected. No issues to speak of.

2.
- The four EQ's/Pre-amps are not use-able as channel strips.

- All four of the 81's have nonstandard RU sizing such that they will not fit in a standard rack mounted on top of each other.

- All four of the 81's exhibited oscillation in the EQ section which required upgrading eight transistors.

- All four of the 81's exhibit mains induced hum in the Hi-Mid and Low-Mid EQ/Filter sections.

- All four of the 81's exhibit a loud pop in the pre-amp section at the point where the second gain stage is introduced/switched into the signal path.
------------ END -----------

Guys, You are our spokesmen to the manufacturer.
They have all the $$ and we have the units that don't work (which were supposed to be useable and we paid for them to be useable).
If you look at the reality the manufacturer has sent us a bunch of broken gear at our expense (mind you, not all of it is broken but there is an identifiable trend to the reported broken units which is outside of the "infant-mortality" group of failures and faults).

Please collect and fire this ammunition at them (I mean send this data/facts to them) on our collective behalf if you have not already began that process.

Just a thought, large scale gear-related-systems-sales/purchases often involves holding a certain percentage of the sale price (10%-25%) by the purchaser for an "Acceptance-Phase".. ie; The remainder is paid when a certain milestone (level of functionality or something) is met... Tends to keep everyone more honest and provides a certain amount of leverage in the case where unforeseen issues are later identified. That money can be withheld if the original agreed upon specs are not delivered. Could even be arranged to be an escrow situation to also protect the seller.

If there is another GB this may be something to consider working into the current process with the $$ amounts involved.

Cheers and thanks for the opportunity Terry & Chance!

-jonathan

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on February 04, 2009, 11:06:56 AM

compasspnt wrote on Tue, 03 February 2009 05:58

BTW, the percentage of "non-working gear" is not high at all.

Most of their stuff has worked fine.

There are some issues, to be sure, and those will be investigated.

I think this maybe only applies to the microphones??? I haven't done any data gathering, but it seems like the vast majority of the preamps should not have made it out the door: All 81s are buzzers, almost all 84s are buzzers, and half the 73 have varying amounts of buzzing.

For my part:
1x ACM3 - works great
2x ACMP81 - work horribly (I use the word "work" with a grain of salt larger than my house LOL)

I think it's crucial that Chance get some data generated on the defect rate. The fact Chance did a quarter-million dollar buy is some leverage, but I think he needs the data also. I don't know the best way to do it. Maybe a lo-fi e-mail with a certain title in the subject heading to Chance after everything has shipped?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: okgb on February 04, 2009, 11:48:41 AM

I don't know if there was a good contract or the chinese would do anything about it anyway , It's not like these were bought
cheaper " As Is "
I don't care what the unit cost price was , 175.00 for a working
unit is a good deal and it's why so many of us jumped on it .

Are there more details to why , we heard the shipping was delayed
due to 100 units not passing QC , and then still getting defective units ?

I don't know who sat on the money but there must have been some interest generated ,
you would think as leverage the Chinese would want to encourage more purchases [ money ] so is that the only recourse ?

Another big job to be sure , i'll await the end of shipping

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: mattrussell on February 04, 2009, 12:10:44 PM

my experience has been pretty good. wouldn't say it's been great. great would have been quiet EQ's on the pre's. i know a guy that bought 4 pre's: (2) 73's, (2) 81's and another guy that bought (2) 73's, i have (2) 73's. we had all of them in one session a few weeks back and used just about all of them. every single one has EQ buzz and it was bad enough on all of them to make the EQ's unusable. still, for $175, i would have bought them even if they didn't have an EQ. not blown away by them, but they sound VERY good for $175. more like an $500 - $800 pre.

mics have all been good. did get one of the 1200's that has a bunk top (meaning it looks like it had been dropped and then picked up by someone that had hammers for hands), but no problems sonically at all with the mics. loving the acm2's and 3's.

anything in the works to replace the screens on the "dropped" 1200's?

on the next buy, i'd probably get (2) more 73's and another pair of the 2's, 3's and possibly a powered phantom pair.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Nizzle on February 04, 2009, 01:21:47 PM

2qty 73's : Sound great out of the box - no hum. EQ's work fine.

2qty 1200's and 900's: All working with no issues. BIG fan of the 900's.

I guess the "QC" gods were with me

-t

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on February 04, 2009, 02:00:34 PM

I find it interesting that some of the people with pres do not have any hum. If in fact it was a design flaw, that would mean all should be humming.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: crazydoc on February 04, 2009, 02:19:28 PM

I think that none of the 81's know the words, but some of the 73's do. Haven't heard about the 84's.

The 73's have fewer eq boards, inductor farther from the PSU transformer, and a much more grounding copper on the boards, all of which could make them less suceptable to oscillation and induced EMI.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: mattrussell on February 04, 2009, 02:36:15 PM

Les Ismore wrote on Wed, 04 February 2009 14:00

I find it interesting that some of the people with pres do not have any hum. If in fact it was a design flaw, that would mean all should be humming.

this has me puzzled as well. tried ground lifts on both models which did nothing. thought maybe it was something simple like that. it's not.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: littlehat on February 04, 2009, 04:48:36 PM

There are two different types of hum/noise in the various pres.

All have power transformer induced issues. They need to be rotated to minimize hum. Some are just lucky in that they were installed in the hum null position.

This is not a design flaw, it is a manufacturing flaw. The pwrxfmr is not labeled as to which ends are poles and where the EM nulls are. So they are installed accordingly, without regard for rotational orientation.

EQs on the 81 and 84 however need to have several transistors replaced to function preoperly.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: drBill on February 04, 2009, 04:52:09 PM

Les Ismore wrote on Wed, 04 February 2009 13:00

I find it interesting that some of the people with pres do not have any hum. If in fact it was a design flaw, that would mean all should be humming.

This actually doesn't surprise me too much. Different people listening, different monitoring levels, and different expectations of what is "acceptable". For some, ANY hum at wide open volume is unacceptable. For others, they are used to a system that has hum already in it that is (most likely) masking the hum of the units themselves.

I have 6 pre's here, and 4 at a friends new studio.

His 84's are stone quiet.
His 73's have a borderline amount of hum.

All of my 73's, 84's and 81's have a degree of hum. Acceptable for certain circumstances, unacceptable for others. In addition, there are a couple of problems in the pre's that I can/do workaround.

Overall, I'm still happy. However, I think that SOMEONE (obviously either Chance or Terry) needs to get on the phone with the Chinese sooner rather than later and try to get some answers and some accommodations from the Chinese.

As much as I like the GB, I'd be hesitant to go again, due to all the problems unless some solutions are put into place.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: mattrussell on February 04, 2009, 05:08:13 PM

drBill wrote on Wed, 04 February 2009 16:52

Les Ismore wrote on Wed, 04 February 2009 13:00

I find it interesting that some of the people with pres do not have any hum. If in fact it was a design flaw, that would mean all should be humming.

This actually doesn't surprise me too much. Different people listening, different monitoring levels, and different expectations of what is "acceptable". For some, ANY hum at wide open volume is unacceptable. For others, they are used to a system that has hum already in it that is (most likely) masking the hum of the units themselves.

I have 6 pre's here, and 4 at a friends new studio.

His 84's are stone quiet.
His 73's have a borderline amount of hum.

All of my 73's, 84's and 81's have a degree of hum. Acceptable for certain circumstances, unacceptable for others. In addition, there are a couple of problems in the pre's that I can/do workaround.

Overall, I'm still happy. However, I think that SOMEONE (obviously either Chance or Terry) needs to get on the phone with the Chinese sooner rather than later and try to get some answers and some accommodations from the Chinese.

As much as I like the GB, I'd be hesitant to go again, due to all the problems unless some solutions are put into place.

this makes me think that we should make some recordings and post them so we can better communicate the sound we're hearing. gonna try to do this soon. the sound my pre's make when an segment of the EQ is engaged is NOT subtle. it's loud. this isn't a 'character' kind of thing at all. going to post something in the next few days. maybe others can join in? would be good to hear different examples.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: redddog on February 04, 2009, 05:16:35 PM

No sh*t, guys!

You said that you'd be enacting a process starting with Winter NAMM. Then, not surprisingly, they told you to f-off and that they weren't coming.

What have you done since that? Chance came out with golly darn they aren't coming statement and all we want is some sort of reaction from the team here. We have been royally screwed over! Show some freakin emotion and get pissed for christ sake. You should be.

I can promise you this much. The next group buy will be a tiny fraction of what this one was.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on February 04, 2009, 07:19:08 PM

I really hope that T"&"C are getting a lot more praise and appreciation in private.

I would be in on another one of these in a heartbeat. Thank you guys for putting this thing on.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: montanasan on February 04, 2009, 07:43:45 PM

Some of us are still waiting.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on February 04, 2009, 08:20:55 PM

redddog wrote on Wed, 04 February 2009 14:16

No sh*t, guys!

You said that you'd be enacting a process starting with Winter NAMM. Then, not surprisingly, they told you to f-off and that they weren't coming.

What have you done since that? Chance came out with golly darn they aren't coming statement and all we want is some sort of reaction from the team here. We have been royally screwed over! Show some freakin emotion and get pissed for christ sake. You should be.

I can promise you this much. The next group buy will be a tiny fraction of what this one was.

Well, if getting pissed and showing some emotion would have accomplished something, you would have seen/heard it. The first thing that Chuck discovered was the transistors. I immediately notified the manufacturer. I believe I posted this a long time ago.

I requested a list of everything from the 2 sp rack height to any and all corrections, from everyone who has worked on them. This was the first production run on these pres, and like anything first run, there are some bugs to be worked out. When the shipping is finished, that is my next assignment.
On another note there is a ton of orders ready to ship, but as I posted yesterday, my mac is down and will be ready Friday at noon. Nothing was lost and they told me that installing a new OS will not affect my data. It turns out that I had OS 10.3.9 installed 3 times. they are going to instal Tiger and do some housecleaning for me and it blows my mind that MAC does not charge a fee for all this.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: okgb on February 05, 2009, 09:46:38 AM

1st production run ?

or were we just the first to buy it ?

There was a post in prodigy lab before the ordering started
where a picture of the exact same guts was posted from a trade show , where i presume they were shopping it around ? 797 Audio

And here a simular [ but not the same ] more recent offering
from golden age audio with fixes that the acmp needs

Although their's costs more for a pre alone than the acmp with eq

[ACMP investiupgradifications] All things PREAMP

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: okgb on February 05, 2009, 01:18:33 PM

My 81's arrived today , for my Canadian Brothers
two of my three packeages escaped customs straight to my door ,
this heavier [ anything to do with it ? ] package had 20.00
taxes & handling fees , lower due to the fact that Chance marked
them 100.00 value , thanks
although i think it best to simply mark the paid amount as value
, just in case .

My two 81's , have a slight higher freq broadband buzz on the pres
, one slightly worse than the other , possibly useable depending
on gain & source .
Both EQ's have an unusable hum / buzz with the eq switch engaged
[ the pre that was slightly quieter has the noisier eq .

So that's 1 out of 4 usable pres for me
2 maybe 3 out of 4 usable mics for me

AND

Just for reference ,
there are references to Alan Hyatt saying they had inductor resonance problems and that they may have to be changed .
this at least as far back as june

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: maxim on February 05, 2009, 05:50:59 PM

redddddog wrote:

"I can promise you this much. The next group buy will be a tiny fraction of what this one was."

do you want to bet?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: okgb on February 05, 2009, 05:57:56 PM

Did you mean friction or fraction

either way i got some of both

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on February 05, 2009, 06:19:04 PM

This was the first production run on these pres. Sure there were the prototypes, but that is not a production run If this is in doubt, I would love to see a rebranded version of the same units.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: MagnetoSound on February 05, 2009, 06:20:47 PM

okgb wrote on Thu, 05 February 2009 22:57

Did you mean friction or fraction

either way i got some of both

A fraction of the friction, I expect.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: maxim on February 05, 2009, 06:50:20 PM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAqmHgL8lmM

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cameron_k on February 05, 2009, 07:50:25 PM

Nice one Max.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: okgb on February 05, 2009, 10:28:57 PM

Right , they won't be able to sell them until they fix them

still no one answers the QC delay question

and how about that survey ?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: duckhunter on February 06, 2009, 04:19:29 PM

maxim wrote on Thu, 05 February 2009 17:50

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAqmHgL8lmM

Boom box over the shoulder and in the ear.....a reason to mix in mono.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: stevelindsay on February 06, 2009, 05:47:08 PM

Chance, is shipping to Australia complete? - I seem to be the only one out here still waiting for their gear (73 pre and 1200 mic)....

Steve Lindsay

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on February 06, 2009, 07:08:26 PM

stevelindsay wrote on Fri, 06 February 2009 14:47

Chance, is shipping to Australia complete? - I seem to be the only one out here still waiting for their gear (73 pre and 1200 mic)....

Steve Lindsay

I don't think so. My MAC with all my files was down all this week but is up and running again. Fortunately my weekend session has been rescheduled, so I will be invoicing and printing labels all weekend.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: okgb on February 07, 2009, 01:05:59 PM

Hey , my preamps are missing the
Customer service card that the manual
says they're supposed to have

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on February 07, 2009, 01:31:52 PM

Good golly gosh.

Another big mess up.

Thanks so much for the report.

We will surely see that you get one.

Just as soon as the rest of the boxes are finally shipped, and accom is made for the units with any problems.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: okgb on February 07, 2009, 02:03:58 PM

Hey it's usually chance with the golly gosh attitude
but curious why you would respond to a trivial post
like my pointing out something small instead of a bigger
question like
What's the story behind a shipping delay blamed on units not passing QC ,
and then getting defective units anyway ?

but you can make the card last on the list , surely
not the most important thing to take care of , Good to see you're taking responsability for the mess up though

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Hallams on February 07, 2009, 11:00:30 PM

okgb wrote on Sun, 08 February 2009 06:03

Hey it's usually chance with the golly gosh attitude
but curious why you would respond to a trivial post
like my pointing out something small instead of a bigger
question like
What's the story behind a shipping delay blamed on units not passing QC ,
and then getting defective units anyway ?

but you can make the card last on the list , surely
not the most important thing to take care of , Good to see you're taking responsability for the mess up though

Well, in response to the attitude in this post and how it reflects an attitude that quite a few have to various issues of contention with the GB, i would like to comment, in a way that is not intended as a put down to those who don't see this as i and many others do. Just a clafification of an attitude i dissagree with.
To me there is a risk implied in the participation in the group buy that i was aware of and to my mind any reasonable participant would have been aware of before it got under way.
To put pressure on the organizers of the GB to take the kind of responsibility that would be expected of a normal commercial transaction between consumer and retail outlet to my mind represents a shifting of ground and a shift of the participants expectations.
This GB has an element of shared risk, and i would urge all participants to think carefully about the benefits they enjoy from their participation and that a significant element of this benefit is as the result of organizers carrying a workload or burden we participants are not being asked to pay for in a financial context. In framing it as a "community" i would again urge participants to chill out and discover something of the community spirit of this GB that they seem not aware of.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Tom L on February 07, 2009, 11:07:41 PM

Hallams wrote on Sat, 07 February 2009 19:00

Well, in response to the attitude in this post and how it reflects an attitude that quite a few have to various issues of contention with the GB, i would like to comment, in a way that is not intended as a put down to those who don't see this as i and many others do. Just a clafification of an attitude i dissagree with.
To me there is a risk implied in the participation in the group buy that i was aware of and to my mind any reasonable participant would have been aware of before it got under way.
To put pressure on the organizers of the GB to take the kind of responsibility that would be expected of a normal commercial transaction between consumer and retail outlet to my mind represents a shifting of ground and a shift of the participants expectations.
This GB has an element of shared risk, and i would urge all participants to think carefully about the benefits they enjoy from their participation and that a significant element of this benefit is as the result of organizers carrying a workload or burden we participants are not being asked to pay for in a financial context. In framing it as a "community" i would again urge participants to chill out and discover something of the community spirit of this GB that they seem not aware of.

+1

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on February 08, 2009, 01:09:02 AM

Chance has been incredibly gracious in his responses to this group buy in general. There are very few people who'd take the amount of abuse that's been leveled against him, especially in light of his incredible generosity and not bite back.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on February 08, 2009, 01:41:12 AM

Sigh....

I can't believe the attitudes.

My two 73's hum.
I don't care. I'll rotate the transformers when I have time.
I will buy 2-4 times more product the next GB.
IF Chance isn't so disgusted by the crap dished out by the whiners that he decides it's not worth it.

I think the discontent is derived from frustrated greed.
You rarely get something for nothing.
You mostly get what you pay for.
This was a great deal.
STFU.

Bitches.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on February 08, 2009, 07:36:08 AM

Bill_Urick wrote on Sun, 08 February 2009 00:41

Sigh....

I can't believe the attitudes.

My two 73's hum.
I don't care. I'll rotate the transformers when I have time.
I will buy 2-4 times more product the next GB.
IF Chance isn't so disgusted by the crap dished out by the whiners that he decides it's not worth it.

I think the discontent is derived from frustrated greed.
You rarely get something for nothing.
You mostly get what you pay for.
This was a great deal.
STFU.

Bitches.

+1

I'm looking forward to the next group buy, I want 4 more 73's, 2 more 900's, 2 more 310's, and a dozen or so ACM 2's so I can give to some friends.

This was a great deal. Thanks TnC, lets do it again.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: okgb on February 08, 2009, 09:44:30 AM

But still no reply about the the QC delay story ?
As i've said before a curious choice of selected responses
[ all through this & even now ]

And that is one of the issues , how things get represented

Time and again many raised questions never got answered , or if
at all , vaguely and off topic

To be clear i didn't expect as good as neve pres , and did
expect i would upgrade parts [ just not be forced to ] but
did expect them to work [ along with my mics ].
at 175.00 i'd think the boys are making some good money ,
[ help pay for all the work this is becoming ] and
at 175.00 i'm plently happy to buy a few , no problem there .

I'll wait for shipping to finish and see how warrenty deals with
all this , regards

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on February 08, 2009, 10:03:44 AM

1) We all know some squirrelly stuff went on with China

2) We all know there are major problems with the majority of pres (especially the 81, to a lesser extent the 84, and moderately with the 73)

3) We all know that TNC will make good on the bad preamps as Terry and Chance have stated NUMEROUS times.

4) We all know that the answers and the making good part won't happen until AFTER everything has shipped, as Terry and Chance have stated NUMEROUS times.

5) It won't do ANYONE any good to have those answers before everything has shipped, so just chill and be patient. If you can wait half a year for your gear, surely you can wait for the actualy FINAL solution rather than speculative ones that are meaningless. I'm just as upset as anyone about my pres, but I'm also mature enough to wait for TNC to get a solid, working solution together that they know will work.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on February 08, 2009, 05:13:05 PM

okgb wrote on Mon, 09 February 2009 01:44

But still no reply about the the QC delay story ?
As i've said before a curious choice of selected responses
[ all through this & even now ]

And that is one of the issues , how things get represented

Time and again many raised questions never got answered , or if
at all , vaguely and off topic

To be clear i didn't expect as good as neve pres , and did
expect i would upgrade parts [ just not be forced to ] but
did expect them to work [ along with my mics ].
at 175.00 i'd think the boys are making some good money ,
[ help pay for all the work this is becoming ] and
at 175.00 i'm plently happy to buy a few , no problem there .

I'll wait for shipping to finish and see how warrenty deals with
all this , regards

I think you'll find most of your questions have been answered. It would appear that you're looking for different answers though. Certainly a quicker fix than is being offered. Some of us really are waiting for our gear still.

Of course everyone expected the gear to work. I imagine nobody more so than Chance and Terry. That's the way these things work. You buy in bulk and count on there being very little to be done after shipping the gear out. It has been stated numerous times that NO PROFIT IS BEING MADE and they have in fact LOST MONEY. Why would they want to add to their workload and be even more out of pocket, getting gear fixed that should work properly?

Please give the guys a break and be patient like almost everybody else is doing. Implying that there is something slightly sinister and underhand going on here, is not going to endear you to anyone, especially not the guys who are and will help you sort out the problems.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: maxim on February 08, 2009, 08:04:19 PM

he's just another whinger

easy enough to ignore....

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Hallams on February 08, 2009, 08:37:33 PM

maxim wrote on Mon, 09 February 2009 12:04

he's just another whinger

easy enough to ignore....

Sorry can't resist....
P.S.W.
Pro Sound Whinger...

Pro Sound Wanker....

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on February 08, 2009, 09:18:02 PM

Please though. let's not be unkind to anyone. We are all family.

And there are hundreds of pages on this thread already, through which many posters may not have read.

Thanks to all, information coming soon.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on February 08, 2009, 09:34:40 PM

I just (over the course of the past 2 days) processed and printed labels (X3) for over 200 international boxes which will ship out on Tuesday (Canada, Great Brit, Australia, and Ireland) I can see the light at the end now. When I feel more like it I will take count of all the reds that are left for invoicing and they're not many. I do know that there are 16 who have not inserted their shipping address, but I will send out individual E-mails to those once everything else has shipped.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: maxim on February 08, 2009, 09:52:49 PM

terry wrote:

"We are all family."

all the more reason to behave....

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: ioaudio on February 09, 2009, 05:31:08 AM

interesting dynamics. okgb did in fact behave and ask a question with good cause - the QC thing.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Barkley McKay on February 09, 2009, 05:59:10 AM

CHANCE wrote on Mon, 09 February 2009 02:34

I just (over the course of the past 2 days) processed and printed labels (X3) for over 200 international boxes which will ship out on Tuesday (Canada, Great Brit, Australia, and Ireland) I can see the light at the end now. When I feel more like it I will take count of all the reds that are left for invoicing and they're not many. I do know that there are 16 who have not inserted their shipping address, but I will send out individual E-mails to those once everything else has shipped.

Hi Chance,

I'm definitely still one of the reds, AND all my shipping information and details are correct and present on the GB registration page.

Mine is a UK order.

I'm posting this as I have no way of knowing if there is an error within your database, and also you have stated that PM's are unreliable as you have so many. Also I am not whinging!

Is there a prize for the last order shipped

Barks

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: ScotcH on February 09, 2009, 01:11:00 PM

CHANCE wrote on Sun, 08 February 2009 21:34

I just (over the course of the past 2 days) processed and printed labels (X3) for over 200 international boxes which will ship out on Tuesday

Hey Chance,

I got an e-mail notification from USPS about my shipnment (Thanks!). Unfortunately, it is missing a critical part of my address ... namely the street and number! If the packages have not yet shipped, can you please contact me? Tried e-mail as well.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on February 09, 2009, 02:17:33 PM

ScotcH wrote on Mon, 09 February 2009 12:11

CHANCE wrote on Sun, 08 February 2009 21:34

I just (over the course of the past 2 days) processed and printed labels (X3) for over 200 international boxes which will ship out on Tuesday

Hey Chance,

I got an e-mail notification from USPS about my shipnment (Thanks!). Unfortunately, it is missing a critical part of my address ... namely the street and number! If the packages have not yet shipped, can you please contact me? Tried e-mail as well.

Hi Scotch,

I had the same problem when I received my notification e-mail, half the address seemed to be missing.
It was there, it was just that my e-mail page was not opened wide enough and the address was shown down at the bottom. When I opened the page wider the address went where it belonged.
Just a thought, your situation may be different.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Jimmy C. on February 09, 2009, 02:53:09 PM

alright.
I could only keep quite for so long, but the incessant bickering and complaining have gotten out of hand and I feel I must share my opinion, as this seems to be going nowhere.
I’ve purchased 8 preamps myself and am more than happy (actually ecstatic) for what they are and what I paid.
Most people really don’t realize what they have in their hands.
A Neve 1073 goes for $3500 and a 1084 goes for $4500

Now, let that sink in for a second everyone.

A Neve 1073 goes for $3500 and a 1084 goes for $4500.

Did I expect a Neve 1073 or 1084 for less than $200? …Hell no.

Did I get more than I expected? … MOST DEFINITELY…at less than 15 to 20 times the price.
The preamps on these things rock, regardless. They are HUGE sounding on the right source and easily stand next to the big boys in my rig. Would I love to have no click at the higher gain settings, sure…or no hum with the EQ engaged….sure…but would it stop me from using these to record Dave Grohl next time he’s in tracking drums?, Fuck no.
For all the guys bitching about spending less than $200 for a preamp that sounds this good is ridiculous….RIDICULOUS…and strangely enough, it shows their ignorance on quality and the costs involved in reaching that quality.
Now I hear your whining, “but I wanted it to work, as described, EQ and all, and as guaranteed!”. Well, THAT IS NOT GOING TO HAPPEN!.
Period.
Now, I had to think about this for a while from both sides. What would I do in TNC’s shoes and how do I view this as a buyer of these products.
I also tried to put on my legal hat and think how a judge would view this case.
On the one hand, you have Terry & Chance.
Two guys like any one of us (albeit with more engineering chops than most) who had an offer to promote rare product on American forums in order for the Chinese to sell their wares. They saw a market, and a great opportunity to get some insanely good gear, direct from china, bypassing the middle man completely and getting it into the hands of hundreds of eager engineers hands….myself included…happily. Do I think they made a profit selling these at this price point? Hell no! And anyone with their head removed from their ass would agree. Even if they did somehow manage to scrape together a $20 profit per piece, that wouldn’t make a difference either way. They brought great items to many thankful engineers so we can continue our craft, all at prices WELL below what others charge. Would I have bought these preamps if they were $400 each?….hell yeah, and be honest, most of you would agree.
Now we see it trying to bite them in the ass for doing so.
Some of the complainers out there actually think they are a company, and they might be on their way to eventually becoming one, but I just assumed that it was a couple of guys with some overseas connections and some schematics and the where with all to pull off a massive group buy. Hell, if China had contacted me, I’d probably put my name on the front as well and people would assume I was the company! All of which seems like a great idea, and a good way to get gear for me & my friends, that is until it turns a bit ugly.
Was there a QC problem?, obviously.
Was it out of their hands? Most definitely.
Some ask why this wasn’t caught at an early phase of QC….remember, we live here. Even if they say an issue had been addressed, and they were holding them longer to try & fix QC issues, we are taking their word that all problems have been fixed. TNC just passes the word from them to our ears. Unless someone from TNC was actually in the factory and overseeing manufacturing, we wouldn’t know exactly if the changes had been implemented, and even then, it’s not foolproof.
Some of you are actually expecting them to contact China and complain, as if that would do anything at all.
China is the manufacturer.
TNC is the distributor.
They’ve been paid, the deal is done.
If you have an issue, you take it up with TNC, not China.
TNC will contact China if they want to continue doing business with them, but that has nothing to do with past sales, only future purchases.
No-one will be shipping anything BACK to China for a refund.
I tried to think about this, once again from a legal standpoint, and it seems the only resolution is one that, to me it seems, will work for everyone involved.

What would you do if you bought a faulty product from Guitar Center or Walmart?
You wouldn’t take it in and have the sales guy at GC fix it, at his expense, and give it back to you.
You would return it back and get a refund.
If this went before a judge and you were sitting there bitching up a storm how “you wanted it to work”…and.. “why won’t TNC fix it so I can use the EQ??”. the judge would reply with the same response. That TNC should give you your money back and you can go your merry way without any preamp at all. And that pittance you paid for this stellar preamp can go back into your account. That’s the facts.
You would get a refund.
And strangely enough, that’s exactly what TNC should offer to anyone who is not satisfied that they didn’t get what they expected.
Send it back to them, at your expense (as most companies would have you do), and you get a refund.
Now follow along with this reasoning for a second with me.
These preamps are worth MUCH more than we paid for them. Not only sonically, but financially as well.
But don’t take my word for it. List one of them on ebay for a Buy It Now price of $400 and see how long it takes to sell. There was one listed back in December for less than 4 hours, then it was gone. That sold for more than DOUBLE what he paid. Name one other purchase that can do that for you overnight? Personally I could see these going for even more than that had it been sold at auction and not a Buy It Now listing. Even as-is, and “flawed” as some see these.
Or you could pay for shipping and send it back to TNC and they can resell it (to many currently waiting buyers hands), or mod it and raise the price and resell it on ebay themselves. Understand that the similar Chameleon Labs unit goes for well above $600. These things are a big money maker if that’s what you’re into.
The technical issues with these preamps have already been addressed by Z-mix and others here, so it’s something that can be fixed and even further modified if you choose too.
I see a great opportunity for a tech with some soldering skills and some extra time on his hands to make a boatload of cash becoming the go-to guy for these pre’s.
Think about it, one guy has them all sent to his place at the owners expense (sans power supplies). He mod’s it, and sends it back for about $50-75 plus $25 for S&H. Once their all lined up, he could probably do 3 an hour and just ship ‘em back out. We’ll all still have hardly nothing into these pre’s at that point, and they’ll probably sound better than they originally would of because of additional tweaks. Sounds like a win-win to me.
$300-325 for a Neve channel strip?...come one, that’s a no-brainer.
Now for the guy that’s still whining…”but I wanted it to work!...and be a Neve 1073 for less than $200!!!”…well, TOUGH SHIT…currently as designed…it DOESN’T…get over it….if you spend more you’ll have a product that will be insanely good. If you don’t spend more, you can still resell it and make a profit. Or you can leave it as-is and have an incredibly great preamp and a great EQ for loud sources. Or you can be a schlub, take a total loss and return it and go buy a Chameleon Labs (no offense CL), or wait for the next GB and hope the issues have been worked out.
And if TNC isn’t interested in the return structure I’ve laid out, just post here that you’d like to sell it for $250 (more than what you paid for it)…..there are dozens of guys that will take it off your hands…I’m sure within the day.
Or, keep bitching.
As for me, I’ll be fixing them all, at my expense, and will be happier than shit that I got such a insanely great deal on world-class preamps and EQ’s.
To TNC, I didn’t mean to step on any toes, but the childish incessant whining was really getting on my last nerve. Obviously these guys have never had to make monthly payments on studio gear before and don’t see the value they’ve gotten. The amount I paid for one of these wouldn’t even pay my interest fees!
Keep up the good work.

Now…let’s discuss…

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on February 09, 2009, 05:54:55 PM

We are family
I got all my sisters with me
We are family
Get up ev'rybody and sing

Ev'ryone can see we're together
As we walk on by
(FLY!) and we fly just like birds of a feather
I won't tell no lie
(ALL!) all of the people around us they say
Can they be that close
Just let me state for the record
We're giving love in a family dose

We are family
I got all my sisters with me
We are family
Get up ev'rybody and sing

Living life is fun and we've just begun
To get our share of the world's delights
(HIGH!) high hopes we have for the future
And our goal's in sight
(WE!) no we don't get depressed
Here's what we call our golden rule
Have faith in you and the things you do
You won't go wrong
This is our family Jewel

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: maxim on February 09, 2009, 07:38:18 PM

agreed with both of the above

the rules of tuangou are still being worked out, and, as i see it, we owe chance and his helpers a HUGE debt of gratitude for jumping into it cold

it looks like the scale of this enterprise was MUCH greater than anticipated

imo, this experience will help define this sort of transaction in the future, including appropriate renumeration for the organisers

my favourite part is the "open source" nature of it...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cameron_k on February 09, 2009, 07:47:47 PM

Jimmy C. wrote on Tue, 10 February 2009 05:53

As for me, I’ll be fixing them all, at my expense, and will be happier than shit that I got such a insanely great deal on world-class preamps and EQ’s.

+1

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on February 09, 2009, 08:28:08 PM

I'd always expected that to be spending at least as much again, modifying the preamps. The thing that amazes me is that there is very little talk of upgrades. Everybody seem to love them.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: okgb on February 09, 2009, 09:07:13 PM

As the kids say " Whatever "

many points are missed or ignored ,[ one could ask why ]
as is some of the praise

No one ever said they were a bad deal , not me .

So

As long as you enjoy it and it doesn't stop you from making music

Be happy as you are , with what you got , cause it doesn't really matter , does it .

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on February 09, 2009, 09:16:50 PM

ScotcH wrote on Mon, 09 February 2009 10:11

CHANCE wrote on Sun, 08 February 2009 21:34

I just (over the course of the past 2 days) processed and printed labels (X3) for over 200 international boxes which will ship out on Tuesday

Hey Chance,

I got an e-mail notification from USPS about my shipnment (Thanks!). Unfortunately, it is missing a critical part of my address ... namely the street and number! If the packages have not yet shipped, can you please contact me? Tried e-mail as well.

That was close! The shipping info that you provided is what I use (CSV). I'll re-do the paperwork and ship on Wednesday.
Once the shipping is finished, I plan on sending some pre's to Oliver's O-R for Xfrmr transplant possibilities.
Barks, you should be invoiced tonight or tomorrow.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: maxim on February 09, 2009, 09:48:13 PM

"many points are missed or ignored ,[ one could ask why ]
as is some of the praise"

the problem was mainly with attitude, from my pov

if you could visualise the amount of stress that chance was under as a result of this tuangou, you would go a bit easy with the harassment, imo...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Barkley McKay on February 10, 2009, 02:56:41 AM

CHANCE wrote on Tue, 10 February 2009 02:16

Barks, you should be invoiced tonight or tomorrow.

Thanks Chance.

With all the noise in here over the last few days, I was concerned that a legitimate query would get missed. I don't really trust the transmission of data over the ether sometimes.

much kudos to you and Terry as always

barks

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: okgb on February 10, 2009, 08:53:15 AM

I don't think so ,

From the start there has been some vague off topic answers ,
if at all and upfront honest information would take care
of all of that ,

BUT to reiterate the points and have others
jump in and stir the pot would be working for Hyatt and i don't
think there's any good in that either , so I'll leave it be
and you can be happy dealing with it as is

A big job indeed , but everybody seems to be getting their stuff
steady & strong , so thanks for the effort so far

take care [ really ] regards Greg

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on February 10, 2009, 09:40:42 AM

Jimmy C. wrote on Mon, 09 February 2009 14:53

But don’t take my word for it. List one of them on ebay for a Buy It Now price of $400 and see how long it takes to sell. There was one listed back in December for less than 4 hours, then it was gone. That sold for more than DOUBLE what he paid. Name one other purchase that can do that for you overnight? Personally I could see these going for even more than that had it been sold at auction and not a Buy It Now listing. Even as-is, and “flawed” as some see these.

Ok I'm game. I bought to resell through the studio anyway. I've contacted many people on the various forums looking for pre's. Not one has jumped at the offer....and at much less then $400. Only through the studio have I had the interest and they knew they were coming. So....I'm not going to take your word for it, in regards to only this part of your post, and list one on Ebay at something around the price you mention here in the next day or so. It will be an "as is" with a "flawed" explanation auction. I need to get some other things out of here as well so it works out.

Here's hoping your completely right.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on February 10, 2009, 01:38:25 PM

Personally, I'm extremely disappointed that there was no candy in the box. What kind of way is that to run a business??

F*** it, I'm going back to Sweetwater.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on February 10, 2009, 02:26:20 PM

My last 2 orders from Sweetwater had NO CANDY!!!

I almost returned the items! really sucks man!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on February 10, 2009, 02:37:11 PM

willowhaus wrote on Tue, 10 February 2009 13:38

Personally, I'm extremely disappointed that there was no candy in the box. What kind of way is that to run a business??

F*** it, I'm going back to Sweetwater.

Come on...

We've got soul dripping sweetness included ITB!

Which is apparently infused with every OTB signal passed TTB (through-the-box)...

Thank you Chance (with-many-sugar)!

Cheers,
jonathan

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: floxe on February 10, 2009, 04:13:31 PM

Quote:

Is there a prize for the last order shipped Smile

would be nice - i'm still in the game

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Hallams on February 10, 2009, 04:48:06 PM

C.Cash wrote on Wed, 11 February 2009 06:26

My last 2 orders from Sweetwater had NO CANDY!!!

I almost returned the items! really sucks man!

What about this microphone demo unit from Mercenary!

....i was really looking forward to hearing how she sounds......and they only sent me a microphone!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: against88 on February 10, 2009, 05:01:09 PM

if anyone is willing to buy a 73 or 81 for $400 i'll sell one or two of mine. they sound great on kick and snare but i've got way more than i need. hell i'll be in australia next week, i'll bring it over and hand deliver it!

seriously - willATtherecordcollective.com

thanks
-w

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cameron_k on February 10, 2009, 06:09:45 PM

Terry and/or Chance,

I'm planning to take my 73 to a tech in the next few days, primarily to have him check out the unit and possibly do a transformer swap. He has asked for a circuit diagram.

Can I just ask: is it possible to obtain the correct schem? There is part of a 73 schem floating around, however it's incomplete and thought not to relate to the final version. If you have decided not to release the schems then that's your business of course. I have no quarrel with that. If this is the case then please let me know so that I can stop making requests.

Cheers, and thanks again for all your time and effort. There are many here who very much appreciate it.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: gse on February 11, 2009, 03:22:01 AM

Hey Chance, I'm a US buyer who's still "red" -- I just realized that I had no shipping information showing on my page!

I updated it, hopefully you'll get around to me sometime.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: nymo on February 12, 2009, 06:11:58 PM

ATTN Chance,

Hi Chance,

I am urgently trying to contact you about redirecting shipping on my pres.

Could you please contact me .

info(at)redberryrecords.com.au

Cheers

John Nyman

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on February 12, 2009, 09:39:39 PM

nymo wrote on Thu, 12 February 2009 15:11

ATTN Chance,

Hi Chance,

I am urgently trying to contact you about redirecting shipping on my pres.

Could you please contact me .

info(at)redberryrecords.com.au

Cheers

John Nyman

Hey
Just update your info on the users console.
(sorry lots of session work but we are almost finished shipping)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: mitsos on February 12, 2009, 11:18:17 PM

I thought I posted this but must have hit the wrong button...

CHANCE (or Terry),

I too would like to see a schematic, but of the 84. You (Chance) mentioned at prodigy that you had all of them (and may have posted them somewhere) but I haven't been able to find them anywhere.

Could you please repost them or point me to where I could find them?

Thanks!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: recordinghacks on February 13, 2009, 12:22:04 PM

mitsos wrote on Thu, 12 February 2009 20:18

I too would like to see a schematic, but of the 84. You (Chance) mentioned at prodigy that you had all of them (and may have posted them somewhere) but I haven't been able to find them anywhere.

AFAIK, the ACMP-84 schematic has never been released.

After requesting it here a week or two ago, I asked 797 Audio directly and was told that Chance has the documents. I don't know whether that's true, but in any case 797 isn't willing to share them with anyone else.

Most of the analysis and repair work I've seen has addressed the ACMP-81, which is in part due to the fact that that model seems more troubled, but I think also because its schematic was published. In hopes of kickstarting the ACMP-84 analysis and repair, I'll third the request for the -84 schematic.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on February 13, 2009, 03:58:52 PM

I believe I posted them for the 84 too. I am double booked today and tomorrow, but will post them sometime this weekend.
Well,,,, thats encouraging that 797 is honoring my request for confidentiality, but I have no problems sharing them.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: slaveern on February 13, 2009, 04:19:37 PM

Folks: I'm thinking of 'consolidating' some of the info in regards to fix/mods...etc. on TnC stuff (on a web page or something). I want to gauge if there's interest in this effort (use the info, or help compile/validate info).

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: mitsos on February 13, 2009, 04:45:25 PM

CHANCE wrote on Fri, 13 February 2009 14:58

I believe I posted them for the 84 too. I am double booked today and tomorrow, but will post them sometime this weekend.
Well,,,, thats encouraging that 797 is honoring my request for confidentiality, but I have no problems sharing them.

Appreciate it!
thanks in advance.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on February 13, 2009, 09:55:53 PM

I found them but they're PDF's. I have another session @ 8pm, . Someone shoot me an Email (SCHEMS) and I'll reply with the attachments and you can convert/post

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on February 13, 2009, 09:58:20 PM

slaveern wrote on Fri, 13 February 2009 13:19

Folks: I'm thinking of 'consolidating' some of the info in regards to fix/mods...etc. on TnC stuff (on a web page or something). I want to gauge if there's interest in this effort (use the info, or help compile/validate info).

That would be really, really great.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: mitsos on February 14, 2009, 07:33:31 AM

Hi Chance, just sent an email to the address in your sig, with SCHEMS in the subject.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on February 14, 2009, 08:43:08 AM

slaveern wrote on Fri, 13 February 2009 15:19

Folks: I'm thinking of 'consolidating' some of the info in regards to fix/mods...etc. on TnC stuff (on a web page or something). I want to gauge if there's interest in this effort (use the info, or help compile/validate info).

I would find this useful as well. So many pages in different forums...that's a lot to weed through. Bravo if you can manange to do it!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: recordinghacks on February 14, 2009, 11:15:29 AM

Thanks to Chance, here are the ACMP-84 and ACMP-81 schematics (rather than link to individual PDFs I've archived them together on a page where I can add the -73 eventually too):

http://recordinghacks.com/tnc-audio-preamps/

(sorry for the crossposting)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on February 14, 2009, 11:32:35 AM

recordinghacks wrote on Sat, 14 February 2009 08:15

Thanks to Chance, here are the ACMP-84 schematics:

http://recordinghacks.com/pdf/tnc/acmp-84_power.pdf
http://recordinghacks.com/pdf/tnc/acmp-84_schematic.pdf

(sorry for the crossposting)

--
matt.

Thanks Matt
I just wish I understood those shhems more

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: matti on February 14, 2009, 11:51:09 AM

Now that you have the time to be active here, could you contact me or Andy Crowley, please

All the best

Matti Lehtonen

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on February 14, 2009, 03:10:24 PM

Berolzheimer wrote on Fri, 13 February 2009 18:58

slaveern wrote on Fri, 13 February 2009 13:19

Folks: I'm thinking of 'consolidating' some of the info in regards to fix/mods...etc. on TnC stuff (on a web page or something). I want to gauge if there's interest in this effort (use the info, or help compile/validate info).

That would be really, really great.

Yes, that would be super awesome. Both of my 73's have the EQ hum, and I'll need to fix it eventually. Not having to troll back through thousands of messages on several boards would be a real boon.

Let me know if you need help doing this (or web space or whatever).

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: ShakesTheClown on February 14, 2009, 06:51:02 PM

Quote:

Yes, that would be super awesome. Both of my 73's have the EQ hum, and I'll need to fix it eventually. Not having to troll back through thousands of messages on several boards would be a real boon.

Let me know if you need help doing this (or web space or whatever).

I'll second that!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on February 14, 2009, 08:57:53 PM

matti wrote on Sat, 14 February 2009 08:51

Now that you have the time to be active here, could you contact me or Andy Crowley, please

All the best

Matti Lehtonen

Andy's order has been shipped some time ago

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: organica on February 14, 2009, 10:40:05 PM

Chance , Matti .......

check emails .

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Paul G on February 15, 2009, 10:15:13 AM

slaveern wrote on Fri, 13 February 2009 16:19

Folks: I'm thinking of 'consolidating' some of the info in regards to fix/mods...etc. on TnC stuff (on a web page or something). I want to gauge if there's interest in this effort (use the info, or help compile/validate info).

Thank you. That would be greatly appreciated.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on February 15, 2009, 04:25:24 PM

Almost there! This past week, I have received payments from four people unknown. I have no way to cross reference to an unknown name. Here is a copy/paste of the most recent one. I am posting this one because it doesn't even contain a name and I don't want to offend anyone on a public forum. If it's you, send me an E-mail or PM so I can credit your order and ship.

"Dear Praise the loud, This is a confirmation of an online transaction placed with The Musicians Workshop. The Sale transaction totaled $584.56 and will be processed to your account. Order Number : 200921561949 Approval Code : 056018 "

Normally after the word "Dear", is the persons name who has ordered and is making payment for shipping. I just looked thru over 400 forum handles and E-mails and nothing resembles this. Going by order number and approval code will mean a very lengthly phone call to the people processing the transactions. If no one responds, I will do this as a last resort after everything has shipped.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Paul G on February 15, 2009, 11:38:36 PM

CHANCE wrote on Sun, 15 February 2009 16:25

Almost there! This past week, I have received payments from four people unknown. I have no way to cross reference to an unknown name. Here is a copy/paste of the most recent one. I am posting this one because it doesn't even contain a name and I don't want to offend anyone on a public forum. If it's you, send me an E-mail or PM so I can credit your order and ship.

"Dear Praise the loud, This is a confirmation of an online transaction placed with The Musicians Workshop. The Sale transaction totaled $584.56 and will be processed to your account. Order Number : 200921561949 Approval Code : 056018 "

Normally after the word "Dear", is the persons name who has ordered and is making payment for shipping. I just looked thru over 400 forum handles and E-mails and nothing resembles this. Going by order number and approval code will mean a very lengthly phone call to the people processing the transactions. If no one responds, I will do this as a last resort after everything has shipped.
Hi Chance. What did "Praise the loud" order? If there's a 1200 in there, I think it might be me.

I'm kidding....but I still want to get a hold of one

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on February 16, 2009, 11:18:53 AM

A BEE FOR YOU BONNET!

PC boards? Transformers? Upgrades for ribbons?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Steve Hogan on February 16, 2009, 02:52:22 PM

A friend of mine recently made me aware of the innovative Group Buy of vintage sound preamps that you put together in order to allow folks to get that vintage sound at a very low cost. He also mentioned that some buyers were encountering some hum and buzz in their units.

Having read a bit about various attempts to resolve the problems in this and the DIY forum, I posted an exploratory question to find out if there might be interest in having me design and supply low-stray-field replacement power transformers that would at least eliminate the internal power transformer as a source of the hum and buzz problem.

As VP of Engineering of Jensen Transformers for many years, I designed all of the JT-series transformers designed up to 2003. I now make my living upgrading and modifying (mostly vintage) audio gear, and I design inductors and power tranformers for a California transformer manufacturer who specializes in small to medium-run custom transformers, both toroidal and conventional.
I specialize in designing low flux density, low stray field power transformers for use in audio gear.

There appears to be considerable interest in a replacement, low-stray-field transformer, and parties have offered to send me their preamps in order for me to properly design it, but they also suggested that in the interest of quickly finding a permanent solution to the ongoing buyer frustration, you might be able to supply me with sample preamps for that purpose. Since I am in Fullerton and you are in Ontario, i was thinking that I might be able to connect with you about how to resolve most of the problems that buyers are having with their units. If you are interested in discussing the possibilities, please contact me and we can get together.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: PookyNMR on February 17, 2009, 12:08:38 AM

Chance -

My shipment arrived today. However, not all the items that I paid for arrived. Is it common for items to arrive separately? Or was there likely a packing / shipping error?

I payed for 1xACM-1200 and 2xACM-3, but one of the ACM-3's did not arrive in the big box with the other items.

What is the proper procedure for getting this resolved?

Also, there is some damage to the items (though the packing boxes and mic boxes are in perfect condition). I will check tomorrow to verify if the microphones are functional.

Thanks.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on February 17, 2009, 03:57:34 PM

PookyNMR wrote on Mon, 16 February 2009 21:08

Chance -

My shipment arrived today. However, not all the items that I paid for arrived. Is it common for items to arrive separately? Or was there likely a packing / shipping error?

I payed for 1xACM-1200 and 2xACM-3, but one of the ACM-3's did not arrive in the big box with the other items.

What is the proper procedure for getting this resolved?

Also, there is some damage to the items (though the packing boxes and mic boxes are in perfect condition). I will check tomorrow to verify if the microphones are functional.

Thanks.

Send me an E-mail with this information ASAP and I will forward it to the shipper

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on February 18, 2009, 10:25:27 AM

Chance what happened to the website?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: slaveern on February 18, 2009, 10:53:47 AM

Folks I spent a couple of days in reading through the threads... it's not so much the time required but my inability to understand and dissect the information into an organized manner.

Recordinghack: since you are already collecting all the diagrams and what-not, maybe will you be willing to host those 'organized' fixes/mods? Or is it under your plan anyway?

slaveern...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rodabod on February 18, 2009, 11:50:00 AM

You can pretty much be sure that at least one person will create a list of "fixes" for the units. The only problem is that there seems to be a rather large number of them, depending on how much you want to fix the build in terms of sound/noise and safety.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: recordinghacks on February 18, 2009, 01:54:24 PM

slaveern wrote on Wed, 18 February 2009 07:53

Recordinghack: since you are already collecting all the diagrams and what-not, maybe will you be willing to host those 'organized' fixes/mods? Or is it under your plan anyway?

I'm happy to host fix-it guides, and I will link to people who offer mod and repair services too. I'm doing this for microphones already, within the RecordingHacks Microphone Database. On the ACMP pre's, though, I don't feel we're "there" yet.

I'm not even sure we've identified all the things that are wrong, much less the best solutions.

If anyone wants to contribute a sound sample of good or bad ACMP-73 or ACMP-81s, put up an SM-57 in a quiet room, max the gain, and send me a 4-5 second excerpt (24-bit WAV)... that's the approach I took with my ACMP-84. It might be useful for others to hear what power-supply hum or transistor oscillations sound like so they can diagnose their own units.

http://recordinghacks.com/tnc-audio-preamps/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: crazydoc on February 18, 2009, 02:15:06 PM

Here's my take on a broad overview of the fixes for the units, to get them into some semblance of usable shape (assuming you want a functional eq.)

All units - open up the box and make sure all connectors are in place - two of mine were not properly connected, one of which didn't pass signal because of it.

ACMP81

1) Swap the transistors on the eq boards to fix the overwhelmingly noisy oscillation problem. This has to be done first.

2) Rotate the toroid power supply transformer to a position of least hum from the mid eq inductors.

3) Shield the toroid and the inductors with mu-metal cylinders.

4) Cut the trace between the two poles of the 6th position of the input gain switch (not an optimal solution - loses a gain setting.)

ACMP73 (and probably the ACMP84 - I don't have one)

Steps 2 through 4 above

There may be replacement inductors and power transformer in the works, which may or may not be an improvement on the above steps - but will be more expensive (and have a longer wait.)

Another potential hum fix (after swapping the transistors for the 81) would be to externalize the power supply, bringing DC power to the box (a minimum of 5 conductors - ground, +24V, +/-15V, +48V.)

This still leaves the gain switch noise/oscillation switching from position 6 to 7. This make-before-break switch connects the input of the first preamp stage to its output, turning it into an oscillator as it passes through this position. It is present in line mode also - just not passed to subsequent amplifier stages.

Lastly, my units are quite noisy (hash/hiss) at the higher gain mic settings - this is probably inherent in the design. I've tried swapping several types of low noise transistors in the first preamp stage (1Q1, 1Q2, 1Q3) without improvement.

Peter Wilcox

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Colorblind on February 18, 2009, 02:44:21 PM

crazydoc wrote on Wed, 18 February 2009 13:15

.

4) Cut the trace between the two poles of the 6th position of the input gain switch (not an optimal solution - loses a gain setting.)

Hi Crazydoc,

Is there any chance you could post a pic of this for non-techy people like myself?

C

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: crazydoc on February 18, 2009, 03:19:24 PM

Colorblind wrote on Wed, 18 February 2009 19:44

crazydoc wrote on Wed, 18 February 2009 13:15

.

4) Cut the trace between the two poles of the 6th position of the input gain switch (not an optimal solution - loses a gain setting.)

Hi Crazydoc,

Is there any chance you could post a pic of this for non-techy people like myself?

C

I'll try to post a pic in the next few days. Realize you have to remove the PC board (the first one, with the mic and line transformers, the preamp and the switch on it) from the box to get to the underside.

You OK with that?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: organica on February 18, 2009, 05:19:39 PM

Chance ,

your website is down .

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on February 18, 2009, 05:48:09 PM

My websites are down, too.

Must be something going around...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: organica on February 19, 2009, 12:31:46 AM

my daughters all have fevers . 101 ,102 & 104 .

something is definitely going around

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: crazydoc on February 19, 2009, 01:20:13 AM

Guess what? I got a fever.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigbone on February 19, 2009, 02:40:57 AM

Guess what... i got a fever......... and the only prescription is more cowbell........

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Barkley McKay on February 19, 2009, 03:21:30 AM

crazydoc wrote on Thu, 19 February 2009 06:20

Guess what? I got a fever.

I'm just getting over man-flu...

Chance, did you get ALL my delivery info from the PM?

cheers

barks

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: MagnetoSound on February 19, 2009, 06:04:08 AM

Barkley McKay wrote on Thu, 19 February 2009 08:21

crazydoc wrote on Thu, 19 February 2009 06:20

Guess what? I got a fever.

I'm just getting over man-flu...

I've got it too!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on February 19, 2009, 06:38:41 AM

My website is fixed.

Hopefully Chance's soon.

Hope you guys get better too...and esp your kids.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Barkley McKay on February 19, 2009, 07:19:36 AM

compasspnt wrote on Thu, 19 February 2009 11:38

My website is fixed.

Hopefully Chance's soon.

Hope you guys get better too...and esp your kids.

Its the kids who got it first!

and Dan, I bet MY man-flu was worse than yours...

barks

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: MagnetoSound on February 19, 2009, 08:45:06 AM

Barkley McKay wrote on Thu, 19 February 2009 12:19

compasspnt wrote on Thu, 19 February 2009 11:38

Hope you guys get better too...and esp your kids.

Its the kids who got it first!

and Dan, I bet MY man-flu was worse than yours...

barks

Not possible.

Yes, my son gave it to me - how lovely.

We're both on the mend. Thanks, Terry.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: crazydoc on February 19, 2009, 09:37:55 AM

crazydoc wrote on Thu, 19 February 2009 06:20

Guess what? I got a fever.

Just kidding - I don't have a fever - I just wanted a prescription for less preamp and gain switch noise.

But I hope those of you that do have fevers get better soon. A fever is just Mother Nature's way of fixing you.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Colorblind on February 19, 2009, 12:43:32 PM

crazydoc wrote on Wed, 18 February 2009 14:19

Colorblind wrote on Wed, 18 February 2009 19:44

crazydoc wrote on Wed, 18 February 2009 13:15

.

4) Cut the trace between the two poles of the 6th position of the input gain switch (not an optimal solution - loses a gain setting.)

Hi Crazydoc,

Is there any chance you could post a pic of this for non-techy people like myself?

C

I'll try to post a pic in the next few days. Realize you have to remove the PC board (the first one, with the mic and line transformers, the preamp and the switch on it) from the box to get to the underside.

You OK with that?

Yikes, perhaps not. I think I read about one user moving or removing a resistor and that solved the nasty pop between positions 6 and 7. I'll see if I can find it.

C

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: crazydoc on February 19, 2009, 04:47:39 PM

Colorblind wrote on Thu, 19 February 2009 17:43

Yikes, perhaps not. I think I read about one user moving or removing a resistor and that solved the nasty pop between positions 6 and 7. I'll see if I can find it.

C

That's an alternative:

http://www.prodigy-pro.com/diy/index.php?topic=27791.240 post#246

http://homerecording.com/bbs/showthread.php?t=275506 post#12

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on February 19, 2009, 07:15:18 PM

Been BURIED in work! Thanks for letting me know about my W-site. A short time ago you might remember I had some problems with USPS labels, and I needed to use the latest ver of Firefox which would NOT run on OSX (10.3.9) I took it to the Apple store and had them do the upgrade to Tiger and now I can't open I-web and I check my dot MAC account it says "O" time to renew. These fees for years have been automatically paid. I guess it's back to the Apple store on Sunday (First open appointment)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Steve Hogan on February 21, 2009, 04:29:58 PM

crazydoc wrote on Wed, 18 February 2009 13:15

There may be replacement inductors and power transformer in the works, which may or may not be an improvement on the above steps - but will be more expensive (and have a longer wait.)
Peter Wilcox

I will be offering a replacement power transformer for all 3 preamps. I have units being shipped to me (one 81 from Crazydoc) for me to figure out exactly what mods should be done in addition to getting rid of the noisy little power toroid. This solution should be a lot nicer than trying to remote the transformer and/or power supply. Keeps the box self-contained but quiet.

I will occasionally post here, but I am corresponding mostly with the folks on the prodigy-pro DIY forum.

I expect first articles of the new power transformer by the end of next week and by the 15th of March I should be installing them for anyone who wants one, along with other mods and fixes at the same time to make the preamps really usable.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on February 21, 2009, 05:04:01 PM

Hi Steve,
I'd be very interested in replacement transformers for all 3 models. What kind of price point would I be looking at? I'd be installing them myself.
Thanks

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on February 21, 2009, 05:25:12 PM

Les Ismore wrote on Sat, 21 February 2009 17:04

Hi Steve,
I'd be very interested in replacement transformers for all 3 models. What kind of price point would I be looking at? I'd be installing them myself.
Thanks

He mentioned a ballpark of $75.- per transformer along with some other related mods earlier in the thread.
http://www.prodigy-pro.com/diy/index.php?topic=27791.msg3902 57#msg390257

Cheers,
jonathan

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: waldorfcave on February 22, 2009, 08:32:40 AM

Hey Chance,

how long does it take to do the rest of the shipping invoices?
I´m waiting and waiting.
Maybe someday i will get finally my mics and amps.

thx

LArs Schwarzlose

Germany

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on February 23, 2009, 10:37:13 PM

Well...I FINALLY got my music computer back on its feet again, and got a chance to hook up my '73!

I think I got lucky. I've only been screwing around in the living room at very low monitoring levels, but I'm not hearing any huge issues at the moment. I'm keeping my eye on the upgrades & repairs - I do see the spike when the gain kicks in, for instance, and might do that mod - but thankfully, it seems totally usable to me - as a matter of fact, it sounds really sweet!

Since I've scaled WAAY back for the time being, I was hoping to use this as THE front end for recording into a LynxONE card...and now I know. I can definitely make this work...

As a DI, this thing is sweet! Plugged my el-cheapo bass guitar in it and was able to dial in a nice tone with the EQ (mainly dialing down some 700 Hz and adding a touch of 110). My main guitar (an early PRS bolt-on with Duncan pickups, H-S-S) also yielded really nice clean tones just straight into the front.

I tested vocals only briefly, with a 57 (hey, it was handy! ). Even that sounded pretty good! I originally wanted this to use with a Fathead, which I found worked well for my voice, so I'm looking forward to giving that a go, as well as testing my wife's voice with the LDC.

All in all, I'm very pleased - except for the fact that I didn't buy a second one! Thanks again, Chance!

Oh, and 0dbfs: I haven't forgotten about you. We must get together very soon & compare our new toys!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cameron_k on February 25, 2009, 07:08:21 PM

Thanks to Chance, Terry, and recordinghacks for making the preamp schems available.

I'm puzzled by the differences in the number of .pdf files posted for each unit. There are 7 .pdf's for the ACMP81, but only 2 for the ACMP73 and ACMP84.

Any clues peeps??

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on February 26, 2009, 07:21:20 AM

willowhaus wrote on Mon, 23 February 2009 22:37

Oh, and 0dbfs: I haven't forgotten about you. We must get together very soon & compare our new toys!

Cool Man! Looking forward to it.

Cheers,
j

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rodabod on February 26, 2009, 08:46:20 AM

cameron_k wrote on Thu, 26 February 2009 00:08

I'm puzzled by the differences in the number of .pdf files posted for each unit. There are 7 .pdf's for the ACMP81, but only 2 for the ACMP73 and ACMP84.

If you actually look at them, you will notice that the single-page schematics show each module's circuit. The '81 has each module on a separate sheet.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cameron_k on February 26, 2009, 06:06:59 PM

Ah. Thanks Roddy. My knowledge of circuit diagrams is equivalent to my knowledge of Antarctic lichen.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: maccool on February 26, 2009, 07:27:01 PM

Just want to say, got my pair of ACM-3's

Wanted them for a pair of fig.8's to sing and play guitar into.

Wonderful.

2xACMP's to come. Should be fun.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Jeff Chitouras on February 27, 2009, 01:48:22 AM

Multiple mic power supplies with no obvious indication of which supply goes with what mic - OK, so I was a bit over-eager to check out the pairs of mics I got, including the 900, 1200 & 6802 and their associated power supplies.

Wired everything up, got a 10 voice accapella group of friends over and had a ball checking out the mics and preamps... them I started breaking down and mindlessly unplugged all the mic cables before realizing the power supplies were not labeled with it's associated mic model number.

I have:

PS 500

PS 1000

an unmarked power supply other than "Power", "Mains Voltage", and, next the Mic In/Out a'Do Not Throw in Trash' symbol (?).

Anyone help me out with which supplies go with which of these three mics?

as associated question: Are the power/signal cables interchangable between the different power supplies?

Thanks.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Jeff Chitouras on February 27, 2009, 01:57:51 AM

OK, too much fun and 4 hours sleep in 38 hours helps this old brain lose it a little bit more...

The three mics in question re: assoc. power supplies are;

900

6802

& 310.

The 1200 was still wired up...

I'm going to bed now

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on February 27, 2009, 07:48:18 AM

I can help you when I get to the studio this afternoon.

Don't plug in anything until you know.

Then take a piece of white tape, write the mic nsme on it with Sharpie, and put on the bottom of each PSU.

I have so many prototypes and mod versions, if I didn't do that, it would be over.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: crazydoc on February 27, 2009, 09:24:50 AM

Jeff Chitouras wrote on Fri, 27 February 2009 06:57

OK, too much fun and 4 hours sleep in 38 hours helps this old brain lose it a little bit more...

The three mics in question re: assoc. power supplies are;

900

6802

& 310.

The 1200 was still wired up...

I'm going to bed now

The 6802 supply has the pattern selector switch.

My 900 and 310 supplies look identical, except the mains voltage selector switch on the 900 is red, and on the 310 is black.

But... I got them in 2 different buys - it's possible they may look identical if you got them in the same buy.

Good luck.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Paul G on February 27, 2009, 09:57:17 AM

Jeff Chitouras wrote on Fri, 27 February 2009 01:57

OK, too much fun and 4 hours sleep in 38 hours helps this old brain lose it a little bit more...

The three mics in question re: assoc. power supplies are;

900

6802

& 310.

The 1200 was still wired up...

I'm going to bed now

Hi Jeff. My 310 has "PS 500 Power Supply" on it, the 900 has nothing except a cute little icon indicating one should not dispose of it in the trash. I can send you some pix if it would help.

Paul

I reread your post. I'll bet the PS 500 goes to the 310 and the 900 gets the one with the little trash can symbol. LOL First thing I did was label mine.....

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on February 27, 2009, 12:27:29 PM

Some quick observations:

6802 psu: Says "PS 1000." Has pattern selector.

310 psu: Has "no garbage" sign on I/O side. No pattern selector

1200 psu: Says "Tube Mic Power Supply." Has pattern selector. Has "no garbage" sign on power side. Is wider than the others.

Couldn't find a 900 right now, will look later.

Cheers.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Jeff Chitouras on February 27, 2009, 12:47:40 PM

Thanks for the quick response everybody. I am immediately marking all power supplies. I had a good laugh at myself.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on February 27, 2009, 01:46:32 PM

I've done the same thing with firewire hard drives. Had a hell of a time figuring out what went where as some of the connectors were the same for very different drives. I now have them all labeled. Good luck!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Jeff Chitouras on February 27, 2009, 07:21:21 PM

Are the power/signal cables interchangable between the different power supplies used with the 310, 900, 1200 and/or 6802?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: crazydoc on February 27, 2009, 08:17:44 PM

Jeff Chitouras wrote on Sat, 28 February 2009 00:21

Are the power/signal cables interchangable between the different power supplies used with the 310, 900, 1200 and/or 6802?

If you have an ohmeter (or continuity tester), check the input pinouts with the outputs. If they're all wired through pin for pin, they should be interchangeable.

If not, you'd better start labelling. (But I suspect they are.)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on February 27, 2009, 09:21:41 PM

I think they are all 7 pin XLR, wired pin-to-pin; but as cd said, best to check continuity to be absolutely sure.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on February 28, 2009, 08:10:05 AM

And if you do check, please let us know.

I'm going to label mine this morning.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on February 28, 2009, 04:28:56 PM

Well,,,, we have about 20 more orders to fill. After that, as promised, I'll be shipping the replacement ribbons and shockmounts from the last GB. As for the future? Well a LOT has been learned. As for international interests, the manufacturer will ship bulk orders to any country. One trusting person would have to accept the responsibility to distribute. Even if he made some money to distribute, it would still save a TON of money and time (and USPS nonsense for me) You guys are paying duty and shipping to the US then duty and shipping from the US to you. I have already shipped an order to Aus that cost $1500.00 just for shipping!! On top of that, I can only imagine what the duty was/is.
Another thing is if someone who is logistic savvy can figure how to safely include the shipping in with the purchase (for domestic), that would cut the ship time by 75%. I sent (2) 1200's off to be modded which will be used for a "How to" tutorial for the C-12 and 47 inspired mods that will be made available to everyone. I find it extremely strange that in these bad economic times, I have been more busy than I have ever been here in my small studio. (perhaps all the TnC gear?) Regretfully this is the reason for my lower than average posts on the boards.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on February 28, 2009, 07:09:32 PM

Hey Chance,

I think we are all understanding of how busy you are. It's great to see that the shipping light at the end of the tunnel is now visible. I'm looking forward to the TNC mic pre warranty/fix/solution so that I can finally put these bad boys to work

EDIT: We should have a "They've finally shipped thank GOD!" party!!!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: maxim on February 28, 2009, 08:34:10 PM

chance!

i've already expressed my gratitude and my belief that this action will fill your karmic coffers to the brim

imho, what you undertook was an unprecedented and extremely significant event

current financial environment invites a working tuangou transaction model

as you've expressed, there are MANY ways to improve this process

but, full kudos to you for having a go first

my immeasurable thanks again to all involved!!!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: seedysea on March 01, 2009, 05:44:22 AM

Hi Chance,

I have been patiently watching the forums, including this one, trying to keep up with the twists and turns of this immense project you created.

I have regularly logged in to check the status of my order and whilst at first I was disappointed with the dreaded red NO, I came to accept that some people had to be down the bottom of any list.

When you began to ship the Aussie orders, I dared to hope that I would see the green YES. Alas, I consoled myself reading the posts of the other Aussies as they received their bounty.

Now with 20 orders to go I am a little nervous. Am I really one of the final 20? I can wait no longer. 'I gots to know!' With only 20 to check, can you tell me if I am about to go green?

Thanks
Craig

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on March 01, 2009, 05:49:44 PM

I just checked the administration console, and yes, you, unfortunately, are in the last 20. Won't be long now.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: matti on March 01, 2009, 09:26:52 PM

What about me and Andy, sorted it out in january - i thought?
-and a week or so ago?

Matti Lehtonen

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: seedysea on March 02, 2009, 05:44:39 AM

Thanks for taking the time to check and let me know.
I'll keep checking the console.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: floxe on March 02, 2009, 07:13:50 AM

i'm also in the last 20 - and i bet my shipping costs will be the highest among all remaining

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cameron_k on March 03, 2009, 12:03:02 AM

Terry/Chance: for your consideration.

It looks like the word is out re: ACM1200 replacement transformers and boards. I've recently come across some gossip on other recording fora about the soon-to-be-available ACM1200 transformer and electronics upgrades. There are many who own the re-badged versions of the ACM1200 who are expressing interest in these upgrade options.

Given that you may be overwhelmed by requests for transformers and electronics upgrade kits for the ACM1200, particularly by those who do not own the TNC version, can I request that these be made available to those who took part in the group buy exclusively in the first instance?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: floxe on March 09, 2009, 01:08:41 PM

can't believe it - two green yes'es finally!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TB-AV on March 10, 2009, 05:32:05 PM

Lots of positive information coming about for fixes, modifications, etc..

http://www.prodigy-pro.com/diy/index.php?PHPSESSID=59bf7a159 712933de50b66069d8baf9a&topic=27791.540

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Michael_Joly on March 10, 2009, 05:43:03 PM

Yeah, Steve Hogan is doing exemplary work to get these units to conform to Neve design and performance.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Eric H. on March 15, 2009, 10:50:51 AM

How many people left? I still have no news from the user console.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Roger Langvik on March 15, 2009, 07:25:35 PM

Just want to say that I got my shipment just in time for a session on thursday, well everything shows up just in time for a session...
But anywhoo, one 73 had problems (missing bits and pieces, hum/buzz in the eq) rest were fine, tried the 73 and 84 on bass and drums.
Worked like a charm.
Had the CM310 up on electrig guitar today, sat wonderfully in that setting. Looking forward to mixing tomorrow!

Thanks!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: azmouse on March 15, 2009, 08:48:15 PM

Hey Chance....thanks ror all the hard work. I have been extremely happy with everything.

If you interested in starting a new forum dedicated to the group buys let me know, I have a couple spare servers and bandwith here in Arizona that can handle it.

I figured it might be nice to have a central point of communication instead of it being spread out across many boards.

Anyway, if you interested, let me know...it's a group and I would be happy to do my part to help.

best,

-dan

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on March 16, 2009, 09:38:04 AM

Hey Dan
First, welcome to PSW and thank you for your gracious offer. This might be a good idea but it might also be overlooked. Many of the tips, suggestions, and ideas come from people on this board happening to stumble onto this thread and giving input. A separate/new board would seem to only apply to those presently involved. I suppose we could try it, but I would hate to see a lot of work put into it and have it fail. I still have less than 10 orders left to fill then will take care of shipping the replacment ribbons from the last go-round.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: waldorfcave on March 17, 2009, 08:58:35 AM

Hi Chance,

i have problems with payment for the delivery.
the credit card payment does not work well.
Every transaction declined. my credit card company said that on your credit card form the card verification value number is missing.
maybe we can do it with bank wire transfer?

i´m from germany.
my pp forum name is waldorfcave...

my real name is.

lars schwarzlose

thx

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on March 17, 2009, 09:46:15 AM

Hi Lars, and welcome to PSW too. Someone else just yesterday had a similiar problem, It turned out to be his bank. First, I would try a different browser.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: waldorfcave on March 17, 2009, 10:10:48 AM

hi chance,

i tried everything. different browsers, systems mac/pc. and i phoned to my credit card company.

they said: for an credit card transaction they need for secure reason the card verification value number.

i just tested it again.

thx
lars

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Barkley McKay on March 18, 2009, 05:33:11 AM

Hi Chance,

I got a shipping notice from USPS that one of my parcels has been refused at UK customs and sent back to the US. No reason give.

Ugh!

Recieved the mics and one of the preamp packages in the UK. The ACM 1200 is pretty nice as is.

cheers

Barks

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on March 18, 2009, 04:03:07 PM

This informartion was already posted in the TNC Reports thread, but so that everyone who wants this information can have it, and to keep things together here...

Things are moving ahead, although sometimes slower than we would wish.

The first PCB upgrade board will be ready for first deliveries by the first of next week.

This will be available with the TAB-F AMI T47 transformer, and will fit into the ACM 1200 body.

If you want to upgrade a 6802, the same electronics will work, but you will have to specify the model so that the board can be cut to proper size (6802 requires a pcb 4 cm wider).

You will have to "stuff" (populate) the pcb yourself with whatever type or brand of components you want, as long as the values are correct as shown on the schematic. Mouser is an excellent supplier.

The electronics have been designed by the Lucas Engineering techs, with consultation from TAB-F/AMI (so that we were sure the elects and transformer would mate properly).

We are shipping these first boards to Oliver, so he will be able to send out complete order kits in one go.

Almost ready are other boards inspired by "49" and "C12," and of course corresponding transformers for those.

A bit later there will be a different board "inspired by 67."

If you want to "build your own," here is the schematic, free of charge, from us to you.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on March 18, 2009, 04:23:17 PM

Excxellent!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on March 18, 2009, 05:44:35 PM

Terry, the tube is listed there under optional. I assume that's not what's meant. I'm not familiar with the EF860, but the new circuit isn't using a dual triad 12AX7 type is it?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on March 19, 2009, 12:45:00 AM

Greg Dixon wrote on Wed, 18 March 2009 17:44

Terry, the tube is listed there under optional. I assume that's not what's meant. I'm not familiar with the EF860, but the new circuit isn't using a dual triad 12AX7 type is it?

I guess if you want a tube microphone, you do have to use the tube. If you do not want a tube microphone, don't use one.

The tube of course is not "optional." It's just listed right under some options.

12AX7 will not work in this circuit (thank goodness).

I *THINK* there is no modification required to the PSU to make this work. Will check further on that.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: waldorfcave on March 19, 2009, 03:44:36 AM

hi chance,

itried it again, with no luck.
i can not pay the delivery with your credit card form.
what should we do?

thx lars

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on March 19, 2009, 05:27:22 AM

compasspnt wrote on Thu, 19 March 2009 15:45

I guess if you want a tube microphone, you do have to use the tube.

I think Neumann forgot that, with their new 67.

So any advice on where to get the tube or brands to look for or avoid?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: QweziRider on March 21, 2009, 08:15:58 PM

Anyone looking for a 73? I got two and have been running them through their paces only to come to the realization I just don't need two at any given time.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: QweziRider on March 22, 2009, 02:48:54 AM

Sold. Thank you for all who sent a PM of interest. I'm not done using the 73's, just had one more than I can use.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Slickshoe62 on March 22, 2009, 07:33:58 AM

It is unfortunate that my first post on this forum is a negative one, but here goes:

I had previously posted my concern about NOT receiving my TNC order on Gearslutz, and Chance responded shortly after with an email and scanned attachment of a shipping label, I guess to show that it was "shipped" on paper.

I have however, NOT received ANY part of my order, and have emailed Chance constantly since December about it. I'm curious to see if there is anybody else browsing these posts that has NOT received their order. I feel like I have been forgotten about, and I am seriously wondering if I will ever see the mic and preamps I ordered.

Below is my previous post on Gearslutz:

I have kept this off the boards, and have sent PMs to chance about my problem with no luck, so maybe you guys can help. I'll try to keep this short.

11/18/08
Fedex said they delivered my package ACMP 73 (x2) and a acm1200 mic. Checked with Chance and he said that something was wrong with the shipping labels. Turns out that it was just a mix up and my package did ship.

11/22/08-12/5/08
I call fedex and they said it was left on my door. NO PACKAGE ON MY DOOR. Wait a few days, then I call Fedex and they supposedly "investigated" my order. Called Fedex back a couple days later and they said nothing more could be done and I needed to contact the shipper (Chance) since he was the only one who could file a claim.

12/9/08
Pm'd Chance so he could file a claim
and decided to wait and not hassle Chance since we are all busy during the holidays

1/3/09
Chance lets me know he will be in contact with fedex next week

1/10/09
Chance Pm'd me saying he talked with a supervisor and they will be getting back to him regarding my order.

1/10/09-Now
Sent Chance 5 emails, but no reply....

Does anybody have a clue about what's going on with the shipments? I figure Chance will get back to me once all the international orders have been sent out, but I am very concerned at this point, given I have been trying to sort this out for over 3 months.

Are any of you having problems similar to mine? I read a post a couple pages back about someone who received only part of his/her order. Did you get that resolved??

Chance if you are reading this, please contact me ASAP

Chriskpea@gmail.com

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Eric H. on March 22, 2009, 10:52:38 AM

I also haven't received anything yet.
No responses from chance also.
I'm out 460 bucks

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on March 22, 2009, 02:37:11 PM

Slickshoe62 wrote on Sun, 22 March 2009 04:33

It is unfortunate that my first post on this forum is a negative one, but here goes:

I had previously posted my concern about NOT receiving my TNC order on Gearslutz, and Chance responded shortly after with an email and scanned attachment of a shipping label, I guess to show that it was "shipped" on paper.

I have however, NOT received ANY part of my order, and have emailed Chance constantly since December about it. I'm curious to see if there is anybody else browsing these posts that has NOT received their order. I feel like I have been forgotten about, and I am seriously wondering if I will ever see the mic and preamps I ordered.

Below is my previous post on Gearslutz:

I have kept this off the boards, and have sent PMs to chance about my problem with no luck, so maybe you guys can help. I'll try to keep this short.

11/18/08
Fedex said they delivered my package ACMP 73 (x2) and a acm1200 mic. Checked with Chance and he said that something was wrong with the shipping labels. Turns out that it was just a mix up and my package did ship.

11/22/08-12/5/08
I call fedex and they said it was left on my door. NO PACKAGE ON MY DOOR. Wait a few days, then I call Fedex and they supposedly "investigated" my order. Called Fedex back a couple days later and they said nothing more could be done and I needed to contact the shipper (Chance) since he was the only one who could file a claim.

12/9/08
Pm'd Chance so he could file a claim
and decided to wait and not hassle Chance since we are all busy during the holidays

1/3/09
Chance lets me know he will be in contact with fedex next week

1/10/09
Chance Pm'd me saying he talked with a supervisor and they will be getting back to him regarding my order.

1/10/09-Now
Sent Chance 5 emails, but no reply....

Does anybody have a clue about what's going on with the shipments? I figure Chance will get back to me once all the international orders have been sent out, but I am very concerned at this point, given I have been trying to sort this out for over 3 months.

Are any of you having problems similar to mine? I read a post a couple pages back about someone who received only part of his/her order. Did you get that resolved??

Chance if you are reading this, please contact me ASAP

Chriskpea@gmail.com

Sounds like someone snatched them from your doorstep. I don't think you can hold Chance accountable for that. Fedex, maybe, if they were supposed to get a signature.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Slickshoe62 on March 22, 2009, 05:47:48 PM

funny thing is, that's exactly how much I may be out of, $460. I ordered 1 ACM1200 and 2 ACMP-73's. What are you waiting on?

As far as who should be held accountable, I don't know.....

have any of you had to sign for your TnC package when it came? I think that it would make sense for Chance to require a signature for $460 worth of electronic equipment. I have purchased everything from rack screws and mic stands to Tubetech pres and Adam monitors online, and each of those items required a signature. I think it was a bad call on Fedex's part to leave the package at my door (if it even got there to begin with) because the door tag, which was supposed to be on my door, was found in my plants, extremely weathered. This tells me that it was obviously windy, and raining hard that day! Also, why leave a door tag if the package is supposed to be right there on the door step? are they expecting it to get stolen?!...sorry guys, please excuse the ranting

Anyway, I just want to get some answers, but Chance will not contact me back to figure this out. Hope all is going well with your TnC gear, hopefully I get mine.

aloha,
Chris

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: organica on March 22, 2009, 06:14:29 PM

fwiw - long story short , I've received 2 orders here this time around , both requiring signatures I believe . good luck with your FEDEX issue .

the only piece I've used so far is one of the 73's which is working quite nicely for snare overdubs and vocals

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Rod Affleck on March 22, 2009, 07:03:15 PM

Slickshoe62 wrote on Sun, 22 March 2009 18:47

have any of you had to sign for your TnC package when it came?

Yes, although the shipments to Canada were sent via USPS. I don't know how FedEx is in the states, but they are TERRIBLE around here for just leaving things on the steps, including that time they delivered a $900 bass amp. I was home that day and they didn't even bother ringing the bell! Anyway, I hate FedEx. This doesn't help your situation much, I'm just venting about stuff that happened six years ago.

However, even though there were a couple of mishaps with my order (read the thread if you're really interested), I will say that all of my interactions with Chance have convinced me that he's a stand-up guy and that he's doing his best with a group buy that is way bigger and more complicated than anyone involved expected it would be. Hopefully things will be sorted out for you soon.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Eric H. on March 22, 2009, 07:42:48 PM

I oredered 2 acm3 and 2 84's.
Still 3 red NO. Maybe i am in the last 10??

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bill obrecht on March 24, 2009, 05:16:08 PM

Hi Everyone

Fed Ex lost one of my two packages (four mics lost).
This was months ago.

Chance had to fill out a Fed Ex form for the Insurance
to get paid - Fed Ex said i couldn't file, Chance had to.

I sent Chance the form several times, and he replied that
he would try to do something, but the form never
got filed and I never got reimbursed.

Figured Chance was super busy, way over-worked, and that this was part of
the risk of Group Buy. (i was a little unhappy tho)

Bill Obrecht

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Hallams on March 24, 2009, 08:01:06 PM

Just thinking re lost deliveries etc..... I would not like to see Chance or Terry having to cover financially for any orders that get lost or other mishaps of the whole packaging and delivery process, just as i would hate to think anyone will miss out on their order. One suggestion might be for a type of "Group Buy Insurance Fund" where each participant deposits $5 or $10 into an account that would be used to refund a buyer who does not receive his order or to re order from the manufacturer. For future GB's if there are any,this amount could also be used to purchase a few items of each model for surplus stock. $5 over 400 participants would give $2000 worth of "insurance" items. Once the group buy had finished with all getting their required orders, and any problems sorted, surplus stock could be sold, and the funds raised could be given to some charity, or used for the next GB "insurance".

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: recordinghacks on March 24, 2009, 10:42:03 PM

I'd kick into the "GB insurance" fund, but I'd really like to hear from Chance that FedEx has been given an opportunity to cover the loss(es) first. I'd hate to see anyone lose hundreds of dollars of gear, but I'd hate it worse if FedEx were liable but didn't take responsibility.

Chance, one other item for you -- you said a couple months back that you'd take care of my DOA ACMP-84 when shipping is complete. Let me know what the return/replacement procedure is.

Thanks.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on March 25, 2009, 10:02:42 AM

recordinghacks wrote on Tue, 24 March 2009 22:42

I'd kick into the "GB insurance" fund, but I'd really like to hear from Chance that FedEx has been given an opportunity to cover the loss(es) first. I'd hate to see anyone lose hundreds of dollars of gear, but I'd hate it worse if FedEx were liable but didn't take responsibility.

Chance, one other item for you -- you said a couple months back that you'd take care of my DOA ACMP-84 when shipping is complete. Let me know what the return/replacement procedure is.

Thanks.

+1 on this.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on March 25, 2009, 10:22:14 AM

We're just about finished shipping. This Fed Ex thing. It is so hard to resolve issues. After spending hours on the phone trying to get connected to the right person, they tell me they will get back to me. They never do. I have been a little under the weather lately but I have complained to NAMM of who I am a member of their partnership shipping program and they are working on this and have made more progress than I have. Namm said they will have some news this week. With all the E-mails I receive every day, it's impossible to respond to everyone. I don't delete every PM, because it's my desire to reply to everyone and is why my PM box is usually full. I have already started sending the replacement ribbons as promised and promise to get to the bottom of missing shipments and DOA's I'm going to keep my word but can only do one thing at a time. I now see the wisdom of Terry only doing 100 at a time. I know no one likes to hear excuses or reasons, you want results. I want this too, more than you know.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on March 25, 2009, 10:33:10 AM

Hang in there Chance... it will all be over eventually and you can take a much needed vacation

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on March 25, 2009, 11:26:18 AM

chris carter wrote on Wed, 25 March 2009 10:33

Hang in there Chance... it will all be over eventually and you can take a much needed vacation

Again, having made ABSOLUTELY NOTHING from this entire venture.

Chance has done this strictly as a service, and for the "fun" of it.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on March 25, 2009, 11:37:28 AM

I'm sure that that's true, Mr. T. But next time I would not be opposed to a little "peace and love" tax. Just think if there was just 5 bucks added to the sick prices we got on this stuff. I don't think there is anything wrong with that if you guys decide to do this again.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on March 25, 2009, 01:13:57 PM

J-Texas wrote on Wed, 25 March 2009 08:37

I'm sure that that's true, Mr. T. But next time I would not be opposed to a little "peace and love" tax. Just think if there was just 5 bucks added to the sick prices we got on this stuff. I don't think there is anything wrong with that if you guys decide to do this again.

Absolutely. 5 for P&L & 5 to the GB insurance fund. And somebody get out there & kick Fedex's ass.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on March 25, 2009, 02:42:25 PM

Chance/Terry,

I know you guys have far more important things to deal with right now, but I have a small issue as well... I need to see about the possibility of a replacement head basket for one of my ACM 1200s. Please pardon the crappy cell phone pic:

I want to make absolutely clear that this mic DID NOT arrive in this condition... there was an unfortunate incident last night involving a cat, a laser pointer and two small children.

As you can see, the head basket is dinged and knocked out of round. The body itself seems to be fine, and it still works and sounds good. It looks pretty fugly though, and I'm worried about the basket shape effecting the response when used as a pair with the other one.

Anyway, when all the other, far more important things have been dealt with (a pox upon FedEx!), is there any chance of purchasing a replacement basket?

Thanks gang!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: mattrussell on March 31, 2009, 10:53:10 AM

Devin Knutson wrote on Wed, 25 March 2009 14:42

Chance/Terry,

I know you guys have far more important things to deal with right now, but I have a small issue as well... I need to see about the possibility of a replacement head basket for one of my ACM 1200s. Please pardon the crappy cell phone pic:

I want to make absolutely clear that this mic DID NOT arrive in this condition... there was an unfortunate incident last night involving a cat, a laser pointer and two small children.

As you can see, the head basket is dinged and knocked out of round. The body itself seems to be fine, and it still works and sounds good. It looks pretty fugly though, and I'm worried about the basket shape effecting the response when used as a pair with the other one.

Anyway, when all the other, far more important things have been dealt with (a pox upon FedEx!), is there any chance of purchasing a replacement basket?

Thanks gang!

i don't have a photo to show, but one of the four mics i bought DID arrive this way. wondering if there is anything that can be done. it's only the very top of the basket that is "pushed in" on that one mic of mine. don't really care that much, but if there are replacements available, it would be cool to get one.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Barkley McKay on March 31, 2009, 10:57:48 AM

My ACM-1200 had a dented top too, but I found it pushed out easily.

barks

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Tom L on March 31, 2009, 02:33:59 PM

Barkley McKay wrote on Tue, 31 March 2009 06:57

My ACM-1200 had a dented top too, but I found it pushed out easily.

barks

Mine too. It's a symetrical dent so I hadn't bothered doing anything about it. That and the fact I use the mic alot and didn't want to f#*@ with it. Is there a dent-pushing-out modification thread? I'll give that a shot.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on April 01, 2009, 11:43:38 AM

Barkley McKay wrote on Tue, 31 March 2009 07:57

My ACM-1200 had a dented top too, but I found it pushed out easily.

barks

Interesting. I had considered seeing what I could do to fix it myself, but I got busy, and didn't want to mess with it, since it ain't really all that broke.

Actually, the truth is that I have all the mechanical aptitude of a three legged dingo.

In terms of the HF response of the mic, should I be more concerned with the ding on the top, or the slight out-of-roundness?

I haven't had an opportunity since the cat incident to put them both up together and test, but I suspect that in the real world, there probably isn't all that much difference at all.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Chris Ilett on April 01, 2009, 02:44:53 PM

Anyone fancy this?

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ssPageNa me=STRK:MEBOFFX:IT&item=250383133117

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Hallams on April 01, 2009, 09:08:31 PM

Tom L wrote on Wed, 01 April 2009 05:33

Barkley McKay wrote on Tue, 31 March 2009 06:57

My ACM-1200 had a dented top too, but I found it pushed out easily.

barks

Mine too. It's a symetrical dent so I hadn't bothered doing anything about it. That and the fact I use the mic alot and didn't want to f#*@ with it. Is there a dent-pushing-out modification thread? I'll give that a shot.

Both mine had a slight dint... or rather a concave shape at the top of the cage and i just assumed that they were born with it.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on April 02, 2009, 06:03:24 AM

The dent is easily removed with light pressure from your thumb.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: waldorfcave on April 06, 2009, 02:32:22 PM

Hi Chance,

my shipping is still red
Whats wrong?

Lars Schwarzlose

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Ironklad Audio on April 12, 2009, 06:13:15 PM

Chance, I have a quick question for you when you get the time - I noticed over on the HR forums that a couple of people have received their replacement ribbons from the previous group buy...how do we go about getting these?

I'm hoping that they aren't just being sent out to the address the original shipment went to, because I've moved since then, and will be moving again in the next couple weeks!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Paul G on April 12, 2009, 06:39:18 PM

Chance had said somewhere that you need to contact him via email and put "replacement ribbons" in the subject line, (I think....) HTH

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on April 12, 2009, 08:48:47 PM

so out of 20+ mics, i only had one bad mic. a dead ACM-4.

i've been planning on just waiting til all the shipping is done to address any DOA stuff. that's a safe assumption, right?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: seedysea on April 12, 2009, 10:41:43 PM

Hi Chance,

I know that you are very busy but I am hoping you can post a short reply on the status of the final orders.

Last I heard you said that mine was one of the last 10 orders to go out.

Is there a problem or is it just trying to find time? I don't mind the wait but I would be more comfortable knowing what is happening at your end.

Thanks

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Ironklad Audio on April 12, 2009, 11:37:59 PM

Paul G wrote on Sun, 12 April 2009 17:39

Chance had said somewhere that you need to contact him via email and put "replacement ribbons" in the subject line, (I think....) HTH

does anyone here happen to know chance's e-mail?

i remember him posting it continually on the huge GB thread at the HR forum...but alas, they axed that thread, and i rrrrrrrrrreally don't feel like going through 153 pages here if someone happens to know it!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: nob turner on April 13, 2009, 02:55:07 AM

to the guys who didn't get their packages who posted on the previous page...

fedex requires signatures on all packages valued at $500 or more. sounds like the both of you were just under that amount. hence the lack of a signature release on your shipments. it does sound like your packages were likely pilfered, and that everyone followed the rules along the way. not sure that this is any consolation...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on April 13, 2009, 07:03:46 AM

Ironklad Audio wrote on Sun, 12 April 2009 23:37

Paul G wrote on Sun, 12 April 2009 17:39

Chance had said somewhere that you need to contact him via email and put "replacement ribbons" in the subject line, (I think....) HTH

does anyone here happen to know chance's e-mail?

i remember him posting it continually on the huge GB thread at the HR forum...but alas, they axed that thread, and i rrrrrrrrrreally don't feel like going through 153 pages here if someone happens to know it!

musicians.workshop@gte.net

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Ironklad Audio on April 13, 2009, 09:34:43 AM

sweet....thanks a ton!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: gareth.h.rees on April 15, 2009, 06:06:07 PM

Hey Chance.

I've emailed you regarding shipping - I still haven't paid.

My email address for the group buy is when_the_laughter_stops @ hotmail.com

Cheers
Gareth

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Crash on April 17, 2009, 10:26:09 AM

nob turner wrote on Mon, 13 April 2009 01:55

to the guys who didn't get their packages who posted on the previous page...

fedex requires signatures on all packages valued at $500 or more. sounds like the both of you were just under that amount. hence the lack of a signature release on your shipments. it does sound like your packages were likely pilfered, and that everyone followed the rules along the way. not sure that this is any consolation...

Too bad they left my $1200 worth of gear on my doorstep sans notification, signature, or much of anything else. I got lucky with my delivery and my door is way far away from the street. I just happened to go by my place right after they delivered the boxes....which were fairly large as they contained 7 pres and a tube mic.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on April 18, 2009, 10:19:18 PM

compasspnt wrote on Thu, 19 March 2009 07:03

This informartion was already posted in the TNC Reports thread, but so that everyone who wants this information can have it, and to keep things together here...

Things are moving ahead, although sometimes slower than we would wish.

The first PCB upgrade board will be ready for first deliveries by the first of next week.

This will be available with the TAB-F AMI T47 transformer, and will fit into the ACM 1200 body.

If you want to upgrade a 6802, the same electronics will work, but you will have to specify the model so that the board can be cut to proper size (6802 requires a pcb 4 cm wider).

You will have to "stuff" (populate) the pcb yourself with whatever type or brand of components you want, as long as the values are correct as shown on the schematic. Mouser is an excellent supplier.

The electronics have been designed by the Lucas Engineering techs, with consultation from TAB-F/AMI (so that we were sure the elects and transformer would mate properly).

We are shipping these first boards to Oliver, so he will be able to send out complete order kits in one go.

Almost ready are other boards inspired by "49" and "C12," and of course corresponding transformers for those.

A bit later there will be a different board "inspired by 67."

If you want to "build your own," here is the schematic, free of charge, from us to you.

Any update on when the transformers and boards will be shipped? Obviously Oliver has been very busy lately.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on April 18, 2009, 10:22:37 PM

Yes, very busy, but this is something of penultimate importance...second only to the CS-1 finalisation.

Absolutely, the transformers and pcb's are very, very near now.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on April 18, 2009, 10:30:56 PM

Great, thanks Terry. As a CS-1 adopter, I benefit either way.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on April 19, 2009, 11:15:54 PM

Chance is working through all of the remaining problems as quickly as humanly possible. Amongst other things, he is waiting for word on assistance from the manufacturer.

Replacement ribbons and some replacement mounts have been going out this past week.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on April 20, 2009, 01:47:15 AM

compasspnt wrote on Sat, 18 April 2009 19:22

Yes, very busy, but this is something of penultimate importance...second only to the CS-1 finalisation.

Absolutely, the transformers and pcb's are very, very near now.

So after finally receiving my mics and stuff I am ready to purchase the mic upgrades. How do I go about doing that again?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Paul G on April 20, 2009, 08:31:20 AM

I'm still looking for a 1200 if anyone has one they don't want.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on April 20, 2009, 11:34:01 AM

compasspnt wrote on Sun, 19 April 2009 20:15

Chance is working through all of the remaining problems as quickly as humanly possible. Amongst other things, he is waiting for word on assistance from the manufacturer.

Replacement ribbons and some replacement mounts have been going out this past week.

Thanks for the update Terry!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: waldorfcave on April 22, 2009, 01:15:24 PM

Finally my two Mic and the ACMP-73 preamps arrived germany

And the best thing is: Everything works perfect no hum no buzz.

thx Chance

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: dpopz on April 22, 2009, 01:28:51 PM

Hi there fellow group buyers !

I have one ACMP-73 for sale. The unit is still waiting for shipping from Chance.

I'm selling this one in order to finance a mod for my other 73.

PM me for details.

Cheers.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on April 22, 2009, 04:52:08 PM

waldorfcave wrote on Wed, 22 April 2009 13:15

Finally my two Mic and the ACMP-73 preamps arrived germany

And the best thing is: Everything works perfect no hum no buzz.

thx Chance

Interesting. When any buzz/hums first came up, the factory in China did extensive testing. They could not find any of these problems at all in any of the three preamp models, of which they still had multiples in house.

I'm wondering if anyone running them on 240V has had any of these issues?

Might it be a "110V Only Thing?"

Whatever, it is being worked on.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Barkley McKay on April 22, 2009, 04:59:02 PM

compasspnt wrote on Wed, 22 April 2009 21:52

waldorfcave wrote on Wed, 22 April 2009 13:15

Finally my two Mic and the ACMP-73 preamps arrived germany

And the best thing is: Everything works perfect no hum no buzz.

thx Chance

Interesting. When any buzz/hums first came up, the factory in China did extensive testing. They could not find any of these problems at all in any of the three preamp models, of which they still had multiples in house.

I'm wondering if anyone running them on 240V has had any of these issues?

Might it be a "110V Only Thing?"

Whatever, it is being worked on.

There was some reference by Steve Hogan on Prodigy that that those running on 240 volts may have better luck.

I'm UK, 240 volts

My amps do have a slight hum when eq is engaged, but it is not an issue at all at "normal" mic levels/usage.

Twisting the torroid did help what noticeable noise there was at high gain.

barks

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on April 22, 2009, 05:01:49 PM

Here at Compass Point we have both versions of mains power.

Most probably aren't that lucky.

But it's pretty easy to hook up a decent mains transformer.

Comes in very handy when UK bands come calling!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Ozzy on April 22, 2009, 05:47:40 PM

Might it be a "110V Only Thing?

I thought the same thing Terry. Both of my 73's are fine.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: crazydoc on April 22, 2009, 06:17:21 PM

compasspnt wrote on Wed, 22 April 2009 21:52

I'm wondering if anyone running them on 240V has had any of these issues?

Might it be a "110V Only Thing?"

And/or a 60Hz vs 50Hz thing? Maybe both the transistor oscillations and inductors have resonances closer to 60Hz.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on April 22, 2009, 06:27:01 PM

IIRC there have been people on Prodigy and homerecording with 240v power having problems also. I have not heard of anyone in any country with an 81 that has no buzzing problems.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on April 22, 2009, 06:39:17 PM

We're 240 volts in Aus. I bought three 73s and five 84s. I think 2 of them had no hum at all, the rest had hum on the lower two bands in the mids or just the lowest. Rotating the toroid got rid of the hum on all but two of the others and even with those it's only on the lowest mid freq and very slight. It increases when boosting and decreases when cutting.

Of course, I can't speak for the 81s, which were the ones with the serious issues.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cameron_k on April 22, 2009, 07:17:37 PM

240v here in Brisbane. My 73 has a very faint hum at the 360hz position. It's not a problem.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: dpopz on April 22, 2009, 08:17:55 PM

dpopz wrote on Wed, 22 April 2009 20:28

Hi there fellow group buyers !

I have one ACMP-73 for sale. The unit is still waiting for shipping from Chance.

I'm selling this one in order to finance a mod for my other 73.

PM me for details.

Cheers.

We have a buyer! thanks everyone for your attention.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Strummer on April 22, 2009, 08:36:54 PM

If anyone has a 73 they'd like to sell please PM.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: gareth.h.rees on May 02, 2009, 09:10:43 AM

Arrrgghhhh!

Chance, I was getting set up to pay the shipping (finally, after a very busy month!) but now the user console has disappeared!!

https://www.n344rb.com/MUSICIANSWORKSHOP/UserConsole

Whats going on??

Cheers!
Gareth

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on May 02, 2009, 09:36:23 AM

Try again - I just logged into it fine.

Maybe there was a server issue?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on May 02, 2009, 07:05:06 PM

I finally received a reply from the manufacturer about the mc pres. Has anyone comped a list of what is needed for all 3 pres?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: frankrizzo on May 02, 2009, 11:50:52 PM

a miracle

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on May 03, 2009, 12:38:41 AM

In light of the QC problems with this buy and especially with some of the criticisms leveled at Chance and Terry, I thought this interview I read last night with Uli Beh#@^ger was interesting.

He's talking about when he first had gear manufactured in China.

"In China I soon discovered that these guys' favourite saying is "No Problem". So if you believe them, you'd think they could do everything - I should have been more wary. So you'd get these wonderful samples and then they'd send you a final shipment of 'bananas' - and I'm sure a lot of manufacturers who read this article will have gone through the same experience."

He goes on to say, "they start to substitute your components with stuff you haven't specified. You walk in and tell them how to do things and that approach only lasts for the time you're there - you walk out of the factory and things go back to the old routine."

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: crazydoc on May 03, 2009, 02:11:00 AM

CHANCE wrote on Sun, 03 May 2009 00:05

I finally received a reply from the manufacturer about the mc pres. Has anyone comped a list of what is needed for all 3 pres?

I suggest you get ahold of Steve Hogan - he's got a pretty good handle on it.

http://www.soundsteward.com/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Tomas Danko on May 03, 2009, 09:32:56 AM

Greg Dixon wrote on Sun, 03 May 2009 05:38

In light of the QC problems with this buy and especially with some of the criticisms leveled at Chance and Terry, I thought this interview I read last night with Uli Beh#@^ger was interesting.

He's talking about when he first had gear manufactured in China.

"In China I soon discovered that these guys' favourite saying is "No Problem". So if you believe them, you'd think they could do everything - I should have been more wary. So you'd get these wonderful samples and then they'd send you a final shipment of 'bananas' - and I'm sure a lot of manufacturers who read this article will have gone through the same experience."

He goes on to say, "they start to substitute your components with stuff you haven't specified. You walk in and tell them how to do things and that approach only lasts for the time you're there - you walk out of the factory and things go back to the old routine."

I know a couple of European importers that orders instruments from China, kinda OEM with their own specifications and then it's their own brand. Some of them were sold in several tens of thousand units. Whenever they got the first test-batch of, say, electric guitars, they were incredible value for the money. Even the basic set-up was decent.

The factories do this in order to get the big order, of course. Once they're being told to produce the rest of the units, it's all downhill.

I used to snatch the first batch all the time when possible, when I owned a guitar shop.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on May 03, 2009, 12:53:34 PM

CHANCE wrote on Sat, 02 May 2009 16:05

I finally received a reply from the manufacturer about the mc pres. Has anyone comped a list of what is needed for all 3 pres?

Congrats Chance!!!

As someone else mentioned, I think Steve Hogan is the only one with a really THOROUGH account of everything that is needed. Although, he says he is still investigating. He has everything documented thoroughly.

If you haven't been there in a minute, you might check the last 5 pages or so on the DIY thread here:
http://www.prodigy-pro.com/diy/index.php?PHPSESSID=52f8c803a 47fb757c435cfb73e30f6c9&topic=27791.720

There are a couple other people on that thread who have done mods to their pres, but nobody seems nearly as thorough as Steve.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: gareth.h.rees on May 03, 2009, 01:25:31 PM

willowhaus wrote on Sat, 02 May 2009 14:36

Try again - I just logged into it fine.

Maybe there was a server issue?

Nope, I get a generic "buy this domain" page when I go to:

https://www.n344rb.com/MUSICIANSWORKSHOP

n344rb.com
This domain is expired, please renew it. Please contact us for more information.

When I go to:

https://www.n344rb.com/MUSICIANSWORKSHOP/UserConsole

I get:

Failed to Connect

Firefox can't establish a connection to the server at www.n344rb.com.

Though the site seems valid, the browser was unable to establish a connection.

Argggghh!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: crazydoc on May 03, 2009, 02:48:08 PM

gareth.h.rees wrote on Sun, 03 May 2009 18:25

willowhaus wrote on Sat, 02 May 2009 14:36

Try again - I just logged into it fine.

Maybe there was a server issue?

Nope, I get a generic "buy this domain" page when I go to:

https://www.n344rb.com/MUSICIANSWORKSHOP

n344rb.com
This domain is expired, please renew it. Please contact us for more information.

When I go to:

https://www.n344rb.com/MUSICIANSWORKSHOP/UserConsole

I get:

Failed to Connect

Firefox can't establish a connection to the server at www.n344rb.com.

Though the site seems valid, the browser was unable to establish a connection.

Argggghh!

I think the problem is that the security certificate, installed a year ago, has just expired. So the httpS site is no longer valid.

The fellow that set this up hasn't posted at hr for 10 months - don't know what became of him.

Zetajazz44 @ hr.com

04-26-2008

GB Payment Update
Hi All:

Just wanted to give you a quick update on the GB Payment Process.

I have finished all the coding on our side, and have ran several test transactions through the gateway and it seems to be working 100%. I feel confident enough that I wouldn't mind opening up payments again, but I'm still waiting on the SSL to be installed on the server... I wouldn't enter my credit card info on a website that wasn't SSL secure, and I don't expect anyone else to do that either...

As soon as this SSL certificate is installed, we should be good to go...

Thanks,

Randy

This site (without the "s") is still active, though I don't know if any business can (or should be) be transacted through it.

http://www.n344rb.com/MUSICIANSWORKSHOP/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: gareth.h.rees on May 03, 2009, 03:45:50 PM

ahh didn't notice the https - tried the normal http one but that doesn't work for me either?! Will post a screenshot in a bit

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: seedysea on May 04, 2009, 06:46:25 AM

I can't log into the user console either. I got a message saying that the security certificate had expired.

I also need to pay for shipping.

Chance, is there any other way we can pay for shipping?

Thanks
Craig

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on May 04, 2009, 12:53:01 PM

Uh-oh - that's new. I got in OK the other day, despite the security cert warning. However, the domain HAS expired - Chance, you better hop on that quick, man!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: crazydoc on May 04, 2009, 03:59:16 PM

CHANCE wrote on Sun, 03 May 2009 00:05

I finally received a reply from the manufacturer about the mc pres. Has anyone comped a list of what is needed for all 3 pres?

Here's my take on it.

73 and 84:
- New (non-resonant) eq inductors, or mumetal cans for the current ones
- Rework the gain switch to remove the oscillation blast between positions 6 and 7

81:
- New eq inductors as above
- Gain switch mod as above
- Replace the Q4 and Q5 transistors on boards 2, 3, 4, and 5 which are prone to oscillate, making the entire eq section unusable.

These fixes will probably get them to the level we expected when ordering them. A better/less-noisy PSU transformer would be helpful too. There are many more potential problems with the pres due to poor "design"/reverse-engineering, and poorly spec'd/under-rated components, but I wouldn't expect fixes for these.

I don't think it's reasonable that most people can do the above fixes, as it takes some electronics/soldering experience to fix them. However, replacing entire PC boards (with properly functioning components on them) is within the realm of most anybody's capability, as it only takes undoing a few screws, nuts and connectors.

But I find it unlikely that the manufacturer would be willing to send us new boards, and question whether the new ones would work any better than the ones they're replacing.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Eric H. on May 04, 2009, 05:25:34 PM

Can't go to the user console either. I needed to get the invoice for customs but a simple note should work.
Did any of you had problems with customs?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on May 04, 2009, 05:52:22 PM

Customs is different in every country, and one must know the local methodology.

Here in The Bahamas it is our biggest daily nightmare.

Or nightly daymare...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on May 04, 2009, 09:09:59 PM

Eric H. wrote on Mon, 04 May 2009 14:25

Can't go to the user console either. I needed to get the invoice for customs but a simple note should work.
Did any of you had problems with customs?

You're right. it has expired. I have to find Randy's phone number and try to get it back up.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on May 05, 2009, 09:54:36 AM

I tried calling Randy last night and this morning, but no answer. I don't know any other way to get the users console back up. Anyone have any ideas?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Kris on May 05, 2009, 10:17:30 AM

Maybe set up a paypal account for the remaining few to pay?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on May 05, 2009, 10:28:14 AM

Kris wrote on Tue, 05 May 2009 07:17

Maybe set up a paypal account for the remaining few to pay?

That's probably the best idea. Since it will be a small amount of money, you shouldn't have the earlier paypal problems.

There's also google checkout.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on May 05, 2009, 10:42:50 AM

chris carter wrote on Tue, 05 May 2009 07:28

Kris wrote on Tue, 05 May 2009 07:17

Maybe set up a paypal account for the remaining few to pay?

That's probably the best idea. Since it will be a small amount of money, you shouldn't have the earlier paypal problems.

There's also google checkout.

The problem is that all the data (what was ordered, shipping information, and status) was on that console the only remaining orders left are the ones where the shipping information was not entered when they ordered. Those have their E-dress on their users console which I can not access anymore.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on May 05, 2009, 10:57:10 AM

Basically, you're going to have to get Randy on the line if he was the one who purchased the domain name. There should be a grace period once it's lapsed, where he will be able to get it back without someone yanking it out from under.

Hindsight it 20/20, but you should have had him make you a contact for the domain, & he should have given you the relevant data to contact for domain renewal. If you're planning on keeping this site for another GB, make sure you get that stuff squared away.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on May 05, 2009, 11:03:16 AM

I got this from a whois query:

"Da Interwebz"

Registrant:
DirectNIC, LTD
Expired Domain Name
PO Box 11207
345-745-6022, Grand Cayman KY1-1008
KY
345-745-6022

Domain Name: N344RB.COM

Administrative Contact:
Domain, Expired expireddomain@directnic.com
Expired Domain Name
PO Box 11207
345-745-6022, Grand Cayman KY1-1008
KY
345-745-6022

Technical Contact:
Domain, Expired expireddomain@directnic.com
Expired Domain Name
PO Box 11207
345-745-6022, Grand Cayman KY1-1008
KY
345-745-6022

Record last updated 05-02-2009 08:24:15 PM
Record expires on 05-01-2009
Record created on 05-01-2006

Domain servers in listed order:
EXPIRED-DOMAIN-NS50.DIRECTNIC.COM 69.46.228.236
EXPIRED-DOMAIN-NS51.DIRECTNIC.COM 69.46.228.237

Not that it's much help - but I assume that DirectNIC.com is who he used to register the site. You could try to contact them directly & see if they'll reinstate it for payment of the fee, but really they're only supposed to deal with the registered contact. Still, if all else fails, it MIGHT be worth a shot to beg them just to turn the site back on again, since you're not asking them to move it or provide more access..

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on May 05, 2009, 02:15:30 PM

Thanks Christopher that will help. I was just on the phone with Nick Logan (a mutual friend of me and Randy) who owns Cornerstone Bancard. They do all the CC and virtual check transactions for us. Nick seems to think he can help. Randy wrote all the code for Bank of America ATM's and according to Nick, is now working for the state from early morning to late at night. The info that Christopher just provided is exactly what Nick asked for.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on May 05, 2009, 03:47:30 PM

I'm assuming the answer is "no"... but just in case, is it possible the data was backed up somewhere????

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: recordinghacks on May 05, 2009, 09:59:07 PM

chris carter wrote on Tue, 05 May 2009 12:47

I'm assuming the answer is "no"... but just in case, is it possible the data was backed up somewhere????

Maybe I missed something, but I think there is no risk of data loss. The domain expired, but the server and all the data is likely intact.

--
matt.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: ioaudio on May 09, 2009, 08:22:58 PM

http://www.gearslutz.com/board/low-end-theory/187097-acmp-73 -neve-73-clone-64.html#post4170995

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: seedysea on May 14, 2009, 03:29:40 AM

Chance, any news?

I'd really like to get what I paid for. Sometime soon.

Thank you
Craig

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: gareth.h.rees on May 14, 2009, 08:46:30 AM

Chance,

Hope you're doing okay.

I've emailed you about selling my Pre's in USA rather than getting them shipped over here.

Get back to me

Cheers
Gareth

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on May 14, 2009, 11:05:45 AM

Would it really be too much to ask for a weekly 60 second update? It might cut down on all the questions and speculation.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: gareth.h.rees on May 17, 2009, 07:22:35 AM

You around Chance?

Have sent you email

Cheers
Gareth

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: seedysea on May 23, 2009, 11:35:17 PM

Chance made contact with me and was very helpful. The user console is up again and I was finally able to pay for my shipping.

Thanks for your dedication to the group buy Chance and all the hard work you put into it.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on May 28, 2009, 01:33:38 AM

CHANCE wrote on Sat, 02 May 2009 16:05

I finally received a reply from the manufacturer about the mc pres. Has anyone comped a list of what is needed for all 3 pres?

so what did they say?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: azmouse on May 28, 2009, 01:13:03 PM

-sold-

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: crazydoc on May 28, 2009, 01:41:35 PM

Les Ismore wrote on Thu, 28 May 2009 06:33

CHANCE wrote on Sat, 02 May 2009 16:05

I finally received a reply from the manufacturer about the mc pres. Has anyone comped a list of what is needed for all 3 pres?

so what did they say?



我很抱歉，我们无能为力

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Kris on May 28, 2009, 01:58:28 PM

We'll that wasn't a nice thing to say!... or was it?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on May 28, 2009, 03:58:13 PM

Kris wrote on Thu, 28 May 2009 13:58

We'll that wasn't a nice thing to say!... or was it?

http://translate.google.com/translate_t?hl=en#zh-CN|en|%0A%E 6%88%91%E5%BE%88%E6%8A%B1%E6%AD%89%EF%BC%8C%E6%88%91%E4%BB%A C%E6%97%A0%E8%83%BD%E4%B8%BA%E5%8A%9B

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on May 28, 2009, 04:19:23 PM

我们确定您快速的小狗

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Kris on May 28, 2009, 04:30:44 PM

他們是戰鬥的話！

I mean... 這是戰鬥的話！

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on May 28, 2009, 04:36:56 PM

糖醋鸡肉？

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Barkley McKay on May 28, 2009, 04:50:35 PM

我爱这个地方！

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: ioaudio on May 28, 2009, 05:07:12 PM

没有企业想查看企业

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: crazydoc on May 28, 2009, 05:45:32 PM

chinese manufacturers wrote on Fri, 1 May 2009 12:01

我很抱歉，我们无能为力

or in other words

这将是一个寒冷的地狱的一天之前，我们解决您的问题与粪便的设备我们给您发送

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on May 28, 2009, 08:31:21 PM

从河床是可爱的鱼，总是新鲜，优于小狗

该名男子谁等待病人的理解应克服步进块。


常设智者，谁应最终实现这一理想。

您好，狗狗。

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: organica on May 28, 2009, 08:44:25 PM

我住在城市的威爾明頓。我在哪裡可以得到貼紙,讓我園我的車?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: J-Texas on May 28, 2009, 09:01:53 PM

I asked a Chinese tech friend of mine and he said, "不要擔心"

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: recordinghacks on May 29, 2009, 01:01:47 AM

compasspnt wrote on Thu, 28 May 2009 17:31

从河床是可爱的鱼，总是新鲜，优于小狗
该名男子谁等待病人的理解应克服步进块。
常设智者，谁应最终实现这一理想。
您好，狗狗。

According to Google, this means:

From the river bed is a lovely fish, always fresh, better than the dog

The man waiting for patients who should be understood to be stepping block to overcome.

Permanent Wise, who should be the ultimate realization of this ideal.

Hello, dog.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Strummer on May 29, 2009, 01:39:47 AM

recordinghacks wrote on Fri, 29 May 2009 01:01

compasspnt wrote on Thu, 28 May 2009 17:31

从河床是可爱的鱼，总是新鲜，优于小狗
该名男子谁等待病人的理解应克服步进块。
常设智者，谁应最终实现这一理想。
您好，狗狗。

According to Google, this means:

From the river bed is a lovely fish, always fresh, better than the dog

The man waiting for patients who should be understood to be stepping block to overcome.

Permanent Wise, who should be the ultimate realization of this ideal.

Hello, dog.

I remember that tune, I used to get all the babes back in the day when I sang "Hello, dog".

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on May 29, 2009, 08:49:53 AM

You English Speakers always fail to understand the crux of our Wisdom.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: A.J. on May 29, 2009, 10:14:31 AM

Chance,

I've sent many emails to you concerning the double charge to my credit card for shipping. I hope you're ok. Please contact me asap.

Best,

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: crazydoc on May 29, 2009, 10:23:06 AM

compasspnt wrote on Fri, 29 May 2009 13:49

You English Speakers always fail to understand the crux of our Wisdom.

Word.

千里之行，始于足下

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Strummer on May 29, 2009, 12:13:54 PM

crazydoc wrote on Fri, 29 May 2009 10:23

compasspnt wrote on Fri, 29 May 2009 13:49

You English Speakers always fail to understand the crux of our Wisdom.

Word.

千里之行，始于足下

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on May 29, 2009, 02:21:16 PM

compasspnt wrote on Thu, 28 May 2009 17:31

从河床是可爱的鱼，总是新鲜，优于小狗

该名男子谁等待病人的理解应克服步进块。


常设智者，谁应最终实现这一理想。

您好，狗狗。

I think something is wrong with my monitor.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: organica on May 31, 2009, 12:29:48 PM

Is there by chance (no pun intended) a general resource ( i.e. web-page perhaps ) with a list of any or all mods available for TNC products and parts ? A consolidated list of fixes ? It's been a little while now and I'm wondering .......

In other words ....
有一個偶然的機會(沒有雙關語意)一般資源(如網頁也許)清單的任何或所有MODS的跨國公司提供產品和零部件?一個統一的修補程序的列表?它已經過了一段時間,我現在不知道.......

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: crazydoc on May 31, 2009, 06:45:24 PM

a crowley wrote on Sun, 31 May 2009 17:29

Is there by chance (no pun intended) a general resource ( i.e. web-page perhaps ) with a list of any or all mods available for TNC products and parts ? A consolidated list of fixes ? It's been a little while now and I'm wondering .......

In other words ....
有一個偶然的機會(沒有雙關語意)一般資源(如網頁也許)清單的任何或所有MODS的跨國公司提供產品和零部件?一個統一的修補程序的列表?它已經過了一段時間,我現在不知道.......

There seems to be no organized consensus yet. One hope is that Steve Hogan http://www.soundsteward.com is going to offer a choice of modifications, ranging from sending your pre to him for complete or partial upgrade, to kits of parts with instructions he will supply (that you or a tech can use), to simply a replacement power transformer.

The most up to date info is usually here:
http://www.prodigy-pro.com/diy/index.php?topic=27791.760

Hang in there, and 不要让你混蛋磨

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Paul G on June 01, 2009, 08:54:11 AM

There was also a board started here but not much is happening there yet.

http://tnc-gear.proboards.com/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: zmix on June 01, 2009, 09:49:04 AM

When we get past all the 1970s N

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cameron_k on June 02, 2009, 01:13:07 AM

I've been out of circulation for 3 weeks or so ..... just wondering if the 1200 replacement board/traffo kits have been made available yet??

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Paul G on June 02, 2009, 08:55:10 AM

cameron_k wrote on Tue, 02 June 2009 01:13

I've been out of circulation for 3 weeks or so ..... just wondering if the 1200 replacement board/traffo kits have been made available yet??
No news recently and I'm still looking for a 1200 myself.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on June 02, 2009, 09:10:25 AM

zmix wrote on Mon, 01 June 2009 08:49

When we get past all the 1970s N
Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on June 02, 2009, 09:16:58 AM

Nope, on Chrystie Street.

The 1200 upgrade boards/xfrms kits are almost ready to be available. We have been crazy busy getting the CS-1's out of The Schoolhouse doors.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on June 02, 2009, 09:33:56 AM

I think I asked this question before BUT,
Will Oliver be accepting any TnC 1200 mics for modding or we have to find someone to do it?

Thanks.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on June 02, 2009, 10:04:12 AM

Not speaking for Oliver personally, of course, but the plan is to provide the kit with the Oliver designed and manufactured transformer (specific to microphone model) and the Lucas designed printed circuit board (unpopulated).

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: ssltech on June 02, 2009, 12:26:59 PM

compasspnt wrote on Fri, 29 May 2009 08:49

You English Speakers always fail to understand the crux of our Wisdom.

...you mean like a Chinese hen? -which crux???

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: recordinghacks on June 07, 2009, 12:27:00 AM

What's the latest word on DOA replacements?

Chance posted that he'd take care of those after the regular shipping is complete, IIRC. Is anybody still waiting for gear?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: gareth.h.rees on June 07, 2009, 12:19:01 PM

Yes, but thats my own fault cause I want to sell the preamps I've bought as being in UK, fixes may get expensive.

Have 2*73's and 2*84's if anyone is interested. Also a 6802?

Cheers
Gareth

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: ShakesTheClown on June 08, 2009, 02:11:07 PM

For what its worth...

I got my 73's several months ago, niosy EQ and all.

After being on and in the rack ever since... they are now worry free, no buzz no noise.

Perhaps I'm lucky?

I can't imagine that the whole innernets have overreacted.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: maccool on June 08, 2009, 04:05:49 PM

recordinghacks wrote on Sun, 07 June 2009 05:27

...Is anybody still waiting for gear?

Yep!

Shipped out of CA back in Feb. I got the ACM-3's, but still no sign of the -73's.

Anybody get their pre's in the UK yet?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: seedysea on June 09, 2009, 01:05:17 AM

I have just received my shipment. I waited ages to get my shipping advice, then again a delay to be able to pay shipping. Then it took around 6 days to get from the US to my door.

I still haven't had a chance to fully check all the mics and the 1073 type. I did notice that the 1200s have a low output level compared to the 310s though. Did anyone else experience this?

Thanks again Chance.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on June 09, 2009, 02:57:06 AM

It isn't that the 1200s are particularly quiet, so much as the 310s are very hot.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: seedysea on June 09, 2009, 04:02:53 AM

Aaah, thanks Greg. Yes, that would explain the difference. The 310s have masses of level and sound pretty good on first listen. Definitely usable anyway.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on June 09, 2009, 05:36:00 AM

Yes, the 1200's are pretty much "normal" output, but the 310's are HOT.

As mentioned elsewhere, I am using my 310's with no mic pre at all...just straight patch from psu xlr out into line input.

On most relatively loud sources, it works great.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on June 10, 2009, 05:43:23 PM

ShakesTheClown wrote on Mon, 08 June 2009 11:11

For what its worth...

I got my 73's several months ago, niosy EQ and all.

After being on and in the rack ever since... they are now worry free, no buzz no noise.

Perhaps I'm lucky?

I can't imagine that the whole innernets have overreacted.

Oddly enough, I switched in the EQ on one of my 73s yesterday and thought, "where did the buzz go?". It's still there, but it's way down in the noise floor now. When passing signal, it's as good as gone.

Could be just the position in the rack, I suppose.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on June 10, 2009, 06:41:19 PM

I have heard this from several people.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on June 10, 2009, 09:37:35 PM

Hey
I've been out for a while. I've been diagnosed with serious depression and it really sucks. I noticed something wrong when something as simple as typing an E-mail seemed to be extremely hard. Then many other simple things became very hard to. I couldn't seem to find a logical explanation for what is happening, so I went to the doctor. My work in the studio is on auto pilot. I just do what I know works. I just can't seem to get my engine started. I could easily stay in bed 24/7. Physically I feel OK. Right now I am still dealing with the gear that USPS lost and the users console is down again. Most of the replacement ribbons have shipped. I still have the shockmounts to ship. The doctor is supposed to be getting me some meds, but I only wish I knew of a way to fix my problem naturally as I used to love drugs but years ago, made a pledge to never do drugs again. If the doc gives me a script for something that makes me feel good, I fear the thought of having to rely on it just to function.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: organica on June 10, 2009, 10:18:43 PM

Stay strong C .

Thanks for all that you do .

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Hallams on June 11, 2009, 01:49:34 AM

Thanks for letting us know. I'll send a few up for you and also there must be something practical we can do to maybe lighten the load.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cameron_k on June 11, 2009, 01:59:08 AM

Chance: so sorry to hear of your predicament.

The jury is still out on the efficacy of antidepressant medication. It can help, and it can hinder. On its own, it may not directly treat the underlying cause/s of the issue. It MAY provide symptom relief. It may not.

My advice to you (speaking as a mental health professional) is to seek recommendations for a warm and friendly psychologist or psychiatrist who:

1. You feel comfortable with and trust
2. Practises eclectically, with an emphasis on cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy, interpersonal therapy.

Also, please get in touch with people you are close to and seek their support. Eat well, sleep well, exercise. Keep busy. Don't allow yourself to get stuck in negative thinking. Engage in pleasurable activities.

You will have plenty of support here, that's for sure.

Check http://www.beyondblue.org.au/index.aspx? for sound, evidence-based information.

PM me any time Chance, and please remember that with the right care, the majority of people beat depression. It usually requires more than medication alone though.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on June 11, 2009, 02:18:20 AM

Sorry to hear that Chance, but I'm sure you'll get past this. Great that Cameron is able to weigh in with some pro advice.
From everything I've heard or read, I'd reiterate what he says, especially the diet & exercise part. Fresh raw fruits & veggies are key, & plenty of outdoor activity- I've seen where you live, go do some hiking in the mountains nearby, there's so much beauty there to experience you can't help but feel better.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on June 11, 2009, 02:37:39 AM

Hey Chance. Hang in there.

I too HATE drugs, even prescription ones, but sometimes they are necessary and beneficial.

When I had that big car crash a couple of years ago, it had been such a sudden thing with the perpetrator jumping out at me like that, I went into a real fear mode, and was afraid to drive, or even leave the house. This also made me very depressed.

The Dr. prescribed me Lexapro, something I was averse to taking.

But the stuff actually worked wonders, and after maybe 5-6 weeks, I was easily able to stop taking it...as he had predicted, there was no dependency with that particular medication.

Anyway, be careful, and do get out and take those nice alks.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Hallams on June 11, 2009, 07:05:51 AM

This bit of info might help explain how well targeted medication can help.
The nerve pathways in the brain can be compared to a highway and in healthy mode the "positive" highways get the attention and are in good shape and thus brain chemistry known as neurotransmitters is in more positive shape. However when the negative highways get a bit too much attention, their chemistry gets the attention and the balance is tipped in their direction. So to go hand in hand with the advice to have some fresh air, eat well rest etc, some properly prescribed, relatively mild medication helps the brain regain the chemical balance.
Hope this helps take some of the mystery out of this subject.
(Not being a health professional please correct if any of this description could lead to misinformation.)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Paul G on June 11, 2009, 09:45:07 AM

Prayers going out for you, Chance. be well.

Paul

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Tomas Danko on June 11, 2009, 12:19:35 PM

CHANCE wrote on Thu, 11 June 2009 02:37

Hey
I've been out for a while. I've been diagnosed with serious depression and it really sucks. I noticed something wrong when something as simple as typing an E-mail seemed to be extremely hard. Then many other simple things became very hard to. I couldn't seem to find a logical explanation for what is happening, so I went to the doctor. My work in the studio is on auto pilot. I just do what I know works. I just can't seem to get my engine started. I could easily stay in bed 24/7. Physically I feel OK. Right now I am still dealing with the gear that USPS lost and the users console is down again. Most of the replacement ribbons have shipped. I still have the shockmounts to ship. The doctor is supposed to be getting me some meds, but I only wish I knew of a way to fix my problem naturally as I used to love drugs but years ago, made a pledge to never do drugs again. If the doc gives me a script for something that makes me feel good, I fear the thought of having to rely on it just to function.

Chance,

I am sorry to hear about this. I can totally relate to all the things above, I know what you're going through and it sucks. Please let us know how the meds turn out (or not).

Isn't it a great deal easier to cope on the whole when you're knee deep in stuff to do. The problem arises when you're between the stuff to do...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TB-AV on June 11, 2009, 01:13:40 PM

Hey Chance, I hope the doctor gets you squared away. I agree with Terry, I don't think you will have any of that long term dependency type situation to deal with.

Sometimes all you need is a little mental change to get through the rough time. Then you can work on your long term natural methods of diet, exercise, vacation, etc..

Tom B

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: garret on June 11, 2009, 02:17:08 PM

Take care of yourself, Chance... get good sleep, watch the caffeine and alcohol, and don't worry about the meds. SSRIs are very different from recreational drugs.

It may take a month or so for the meds to kick in.. but suddenly one morning you'll notice you feel optimistic for the first time in a while. And the endless cycling of thoughts and worries will calm.

I had my own round of major depression about 6 years ago... and it took a few years of tapering down the dosage before I felt ready to quit the meds. But they work wonders while you work your way through all the underlying things that are contributing.

Please feel free to write me by PM here, or on facebook if you need anything.

Oh, and Happy Birthday... I think it's tomorrow?
Best,
-Garret

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: willowhaus on June 12, 2009, 11:51:38 AM

Happy Birthday, Chance!

Hang in there, bro - I've been through that myself, and it's tough. I suffered from really bad clinical depression, where I was always struggling, and sometimes couldn't even get out of bed to deal with life. Starting a program of Prozac and counseling was a huge turning point in my life. I took them for while, then went off a bit later. (I sort of went back on, using Wellbutrin to quit smoking. Worked like a charm for that!)

I haven't been on the meds for years now, but at the time they REALLY helped me get on with the hard parts of moving forward. Being able to function on a daily basis is incredibly important to overcoming depression - and for me, the meds gave me that "leg up", so I could also then focus on the root causes of the condition itself.

Prayers for you, my friend. It will get better!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: MikieBahamas on June 12, 2009, 10:02:15 PM

Happy Birthday Chance.

Another Gemini II!

I hope you feel better soon.

You've done a lot of good for a lot of people on this forum. For that you should be praised. Out of the bad will eventually come good! The pendulum swings back and forth.

Hang in there...you're a star!

Thanks.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: BQ on June 14, 2009, 02:18:55 PM

Hi Chance,

Sorry to hear of your troubles. I've struggled with depression myself, but likewise have always avoided meds. However... my wife is a therapist, and so I know that they're sometimes necessary, and that there's no shame in that. One thing she did tell me though (which was confirmed by a friend who's a psychiatrist) is that one year seems to be the magic time period for SSRIs. After a year, many, if not most, people are able to stop taking them, and not fall back into depression. Dunno why, but take it for what it's worth.

Thanks again for all the work that you did on the group buy - I'm thrilled with my stuff, and have had no problems. So, if it helps, you've made at least one person very happy.

-Brendan

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Slickshoe62 on June 17, 2009, 07:55:48 PM

Chance,

I really feel for you. My father who is 58 is dealing with the same thing. His doctor mentioned to us that it is becoming more and more common nowadays with men in their 40s-60s. Family support at this point in time is the most important thing. Stay well Chance, and get better.

aloha,

Chris

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rodabod on June 18, 2009, 08:29:07 PM

Hi Chance,

Hope you feel better soon. I hope the stress of this whole group-buy hasn't brought this on. Sometimes when you've been over-worked and over-stressed it can begin to affect you, and it can be hard to see through this at the time.

Roddy

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Eric H. on June 23, 2009, 01:56:05 PM

I love the boxes of my ACM3.
Anyone knows where I can get other ones? I have homeless mics...
Thanks.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN: TNC Webpage
Post by: Barkley McKay on June 28, 2009, 09:40:19 AM

Hi Terry (or Chance!)

the Groupbuy website seems to be down again.

I'm doing my taxes and the payment page is the closest I'll get to an official invoice/receipt for payment.

can this be fixed?

cheers

Barks

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: gareth.h.rees on July 14, 2009, 06:29:24 AM

Hope things are a bit better Chance.

Still haven't been invoiced for the changed order

Cheers
Gareth

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on July 14, 2009, 07:04:16 AM

Chance,

My experience with Lexipro was a little different from Terry's.
For about two weeks I was able to focus on work as never before.
The third week I was able to focus on the idea of vaporizing my cerebral cortex with a 38 as never before.

If you take any of that crap, monitor yourself and be constantly aware that you are taking mood altering drugs.

You are not alone. Find a couple of understanding friends you can talk to whenever necessary. That can help a lot.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on July 14, 2009, 02:14:40 PM

Bill_Urick wrote on Tue, 14 July 2009 04:04

Chance,

My experience with Lexipro was a little different from Terry's.
For about two weeks I was able to focus on work as never before.
The third week I was able to focus on the idea of vaporizing my cerebral cortex with a 38 as never before.

If you take any of that crap, monitor yourself and be constantly aware that you are taking mood altering drugs.

You are not alone. Find a couple of understanding friends you can talk to whenever necessary. That can help a lot.

Wow, scary. Glad you didn't take yourself up on that idea, Bill.

BTW the other day I did a little tube swapping in my acm-1200, I ended up with a 1956 Sylvania 12AT7 in there, which made for some very pleasant changes to the mic-smoother, more open, more delicate top end, and WAY more reach into the lower part of the spectrum- it's like it got loosened up down there in a very nice way. Used it for female vox that evening & they came out great.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cameron_k on July 22, 2009, 01:57:01 AM

Terry, if you should happen across this post.... so sorry to pester you about this, just wondering if we have an ETA on the availability of the ACM1200 upgrade boards and traffos? I'm happy to wait if we are close to delivery, if not I'll look to a local tech for an upgrade.

Cheers!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on July 22, 2009, 07:29:59 AM

Yes, they are very close...sorry for the delays, but we have so incredibly much going on. Will check and report. Regards.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: laiben on July 22, 2009, 10:46:47 AM

Chance,

I've email you many times about my order since April and get no respond. You said my order went to Isreal, and the guy in Isreal get my order. There are two 6802T mics in the package but my order is ACM1200, ACM3, ACM300 and ACM583. So now what to do next?

laiben

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: gareth.h.rees on July 23, 2009, 07:50:10 AM

Haven't got back to my email either...

Don't mean to nag but could do with a response?

Cheers
Gareth

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Slickshoe62 on July 23, 2009, 09:26:17 AM

Hey Chance,

I could also do with a response on my order. I had the 2 acmp 73 pres with the acm1200 mic shipped to Hawaii.

I started emailing you about the problems with my order last November, and I know you are busy, but I still haven't seen any part of my order, and no updates about what is happening.

please contact me when you can: chriskpea@gmail.com

aloha,

Chris

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: itsapleasure on July 23, 2009, 12:14:45 PM

cameron_k wrote on Wed, 22 July 2009 01:57

Terry, if you should happen across this post.... so sorry to pester you about this, just wondering if we have an ETA on the availability of the ACM1200 upgrade boards and traffos? I'm happy to wait if we are close to delivery, if not I'll look to a local tech for an upgrade.

Cheers!

I don't know if we're talking about the same xformers (or if Oliver is sold out of them) but I got mine a long while back. Those and new tubes made a world of difference in those mics. IMO it took the 1200s from unuseable to very useable...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cameron_k on July 23, 2009, 07:13:03 PM

itsapleasure wrote on Fri, 24 July 2009 02:14

cameron_k wrote on Wed, 22 July 2009 01:57

Terry, if you should happen across this post.... so sorry to pester you about this, just wondering if we have an ETA on the availability of the ACM1200 upgrade boards and traffos? I'm happy to wait if we are close to delivery, if not I'll look to a local tech for an upgrade.

Cheers!

I don't know if we're talking about the same xformers (or if Oliver is sold out of them) but I got mine a long while back. Those and new tubes made a world of difference in those mics. IMO it took the 1200s from unuseable to very useable...

Hmmm. I sent two emails enquiring about ordering a transformer..... one to a Compass Point address and one to TAB. I didn't receive any replies and had assumed that things were on hold. I realise that this is probably a sideline for both Terry and Oliver so it's no issue for me. Just looking to get my 1200 up to speed ASAP.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on July 23, 2009, 07:37:55 PM

itsapleasure wrote on Fri, 24 July 2009 02:14

cameron_k wrote on Wed, 22 July 2009 01:57

Terry, if you should happen across this post.... so sorry to pester you about this, just wondering if we have an ETA on the availability of the ACM1200 upgrade boards and traffos? I'm happy to wait if we are close to delivery, if not I'll look to a local tech for an upgrade.

Cheers!

I don't know if we're talking about the same xformers (or if Oliver is sold out of them) but I got mine a long while back. Those and new tubes made a world of difference in those mics. IMO it took the 1200s from unuseable to very useable...

The transformers built specifically for these mics, is what we're wondering about?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cameron_k on July 23, 2009, 08:02:59 PM

Yeah.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on July 23, 2009, 10:41:01 PM

There will finally be big news about the transformers and mod pcb's from Lucas for the TNC 1200's; hopefully will post all tomorrow or Saturday!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: frankrizzo on July 24, 2009, 06:15:45 PM

what are we doing about DOA UNITS?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Michael_Joly on July 25, 2009, 10:10:57 AM

compasspnt wrote on Thu, 23 July 2009 21:41

There will finally be big news about the transformers and mod pcb's from Lucas for the TNC 1200's; hopefully will post all tomorrow or Saturday!

Does the new circuit topology implement the negative-feedback HF de-emphasis that is supposed to be used with a K67-type capsule (as was done in the U 67 and U 87)? Because in my view, the single biggest issue with the low cost tube mics is the mis-match between K67-type capsule and flat response circuit that allows the capsule's peaked HF response to sail right through unattenuated - not at all like the sound Neumann intended to be heard from a K67-type capsule.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Oliver Archut on July 25, 2009, 02:20:19 PM

Working with the Lucas tech on a easy mod all x-formers were custom designed to fit the 1200.

The stock capsule is used in several other mics that sell in the $1600 plus range and not bad at all. I think it is a mute point trying to talk about replacement capsules if the electronics/transformer were designed around the stock capsule.

There are several other mic manufactures that make a similar type to the 1200 and the mods will fit with reference to dimension, will they sound the same? I do not know.

Here at AMI we just finished the first batch of transformer for the 47 like mod. The boards arrived here a while back and Terry will get the logistics set up to get the parts into the hands of 1200 owners.

Best regards,

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Oliver Archut on July 25, 2009, 04:36:48 PM

Does the new circuit topology implement the negative-feedback HF de-emphasis that is supposed to be used with a K67-type capsule (as was done in the U 67 and U 87)? Because in my view, the single biggest issue with the low cost tube mics is the mis-match between K67-type capsule and flat response circuit that allows the capsule's peaked HF response to sail right through unattenuated - not at all like the sound Neumann intended to be heard from a K67-type capsule.

There is no real K67/87/870 capsule out there other than the Neumanns, with reference to the high end boost you quote.

Most budged manufactures take the same production method first pioneered by AKGs CK12 and later used by Neumann for the K67/87, for their capsules because it is the easiest way to get a balanced front/back response. The look might be similar but if you measure them they do not display the typical features the K67/87 is famous for.

The 1200 capsule might have a small rise in frequency response, the manufacture claims 3dB, but that is about half of that what a real K67 should have and not to much for a straight forward design to take care of, no feedback needed.

Also the negative feedback is only a part that helps reduce the boost, the x-former as well the dimension of head assembly in a U67 contributes to it too. In a U87 the headshape as well as the electronics flattens out the upper frequency response and not too much the x-former what is a close relative to the KM5x x-former.

The general idea was to come up with mods for the 1200 that would be easy to do, and push the mic into a general direction of the classics. You won't get a mic that will sound identical to a great ones, that is impossible, but you end up with 3 distinct sounding mic flavours, out of a single body and capsule.

Best regards,

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigtom on July 25, 2009, 05:37:44 PM

Terry,
Tell us what to do. I want these bad boys bad!!

Big Tom Perkins

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on July 25, 2009, 05:51:24 PM

bigtom wrote on Sat, 25 July 2009 14:37

Terry,
Tell us what to do. I want these bad boys bad!!

Big Tom Perkins

Me Too! I already switched tubes in my 1200 and hearing the huge difference that made, I'm eagerly anticipating the next step. Will the new circuit use a 12xx7 type tube or something different?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Paul G on July 25, 2009, 10:12:28 PM

Oliver Archut wrote on Sat, 25 July 2009 14:20

There are several other mic manufactures that make a similar type to the 1200 and the mods will fit with reference to dimension, will they sound the same? I do not know.

Hi Oliver. Do you think that the Apex 460 might be a good candidate for this mod? I haven't been able to get my hands on a 1200 yet. Thanks.

Paul

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cnixon on July 25, 2009, 11:54:33 PM

bigtom wrote on Sat, 25 July 2009 16:37

Terry,
Tell us what to do. I want these bad boys bad!!

Big Tom Perkins

As do many, including myself!

Charlie

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on July 26, 2009, 01:57:42 PM

Hey guys, I'll get to it. Also there will be photos of different parts of the mod process...a real fun "how to" type thing.

But my cable provided internet has been out all weekend, just came back a few minutes ago.

So I'll do it as soon as possible now.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: crazydoc on July 26, 2009, 03:05:56 PM

From the TNC preamp user manual:

Quote:

Service & Limited Liability

TNC Audio guarantees the microphone preamplifier to the original purchaser for a period
of one year (subject to the date of original invoice). Customer is responsible for any
transportation required, but for one year, TNC will be responsible for mending or replacing
any unit found to be defective (but not for units found to be abused or improperly utilised).

TNC Audio LLC
Musicians Workshop
968 E. Granada Ct.
Ontario, California 91764
USA

TNC Audio LLC
P. O. Box CB-13327
Nassau, Bahamas
http://www.tnc-audio.com

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on July 26, 2009, 03:31:26 PM

Chance is responding to the posts from people directly, but is not able to also respond with a PSW post for each and every one.

The User Console is down, and very unfortunately, only Randy has the sign-on knowledge to get it back up. All of the information as to exact orders is locked in that console. Chance has been unable to contact Randy for a while now...if anyone knows Randy, and can get a message to him, please help out and do so.

Every little problem remaining will be addressed as quickly as Chancely possible. Many emails were sent to people asking them to follow up to Chance with information related to things such as shipping payment, exact addresses, etc...amazing how many people just did not respond. All of this has taken Chance a huge amount of time to deal with.

But one by one, they are being addressed.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: crazydoc on July 26, 2009, 10:06:22 PM

Thanks for your prompt response, Mr. Manning. However, a cursory review of the last page shows several folks who have had no response to emails. I realize Chance has had an issue with clinical depression, but hopefully he was amenable to appropriate treatment, and things should be improving by now.

My question was not regarding delivery issues, which need to be addressed on an individual basis, but rather the defective equipment which seems to have been rather pervasive. It would seem that the resolution of general categories of these problems (DOA units, units [mics and preamps] unusable due to noise issues, design defects such as the gain switch in the preamps, etc.) could be more expeditiously dealt with in a post or two here.

At one point it looked like Steve Hogan was going to have a fix for many of the preamp problems, but he seems to have vanished from the boards.

However, if you prefer that we all deal with this through individual emails to Chance, so be it. Hopefully, he will answer.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Oliver Archut on July 26, 2009, 10:29:01 PM

Somewhere a couple of decca pages ago were the general line out of the mods.
The 47 like mod is based around the most used Noval footprint for pentodes covering tubes like EF80, EF184, 6HM6, there are virtually over 50 tube types that used that base and all give the user a different option.
My favorite that far is the 6HM6.
The 49 like mod is based around the 6072/12AT7 tubes and yes a 12AX7 will fit, but I think not the best choice, there is a bunch of not too well known tube that have the same footprint, my favorite is the 6BS8.
The 67 like mod, is based around the classic EF86, best low budged choice is the Telefunken PF86 or the Mullard UF86 both tubes sound like their high priced EF brothers but for the fraction of the cost.

Hope that answers your question.

Best regards,

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: RMoore on July 27, 2009, 07:15:28 AM

Just wanted to weigh in here with my support for Chance... as challenging as things may seem now - you won't always feel this way (!)..

I was impressed with the comments and info from other PSW'ers in support of a fellow member (!)..

Fwiw - I know some people who have experienced positive results in managing 'medium' to mild depression by non-medicinal means using a combination of all or some of the following:

St Johns Wort / Hypericum
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St_John's_wort

5HTP
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/5-Hydroxytryptophan

This particular brand of omega 3 fish oil: 'Joy' by Genuine Health...(amazing stuff!)

http://shop.genuinehealth.com/by-name/o3mega-joy-1.html

Based on leading research and developed in-conjunction with a naturopathic doctor, o3mega+ joy was one of the first all-natural mood support formulas in North America.

Its unique formula contains EPA concentrate, an essential Omega-3 fatty acid that’s clinically proven to help i

Note: EPA is the magic brain food ingredient apparently..

And regular exercise of some sort eg: walking, running, cycling, sports, yoga etc..

Here in Continental Europe - Germany and Holland, doctors are more commonly 'prescribing' exercise & St John's Wort for treatment of mild depression...

For major clinical depression it seems that a course of one of the commercial medications is what tends to help the majority of persons in the quickest amount of time.. As mentioned, cognitive behavior therapy can apparently be very helpful as well to help get out of negative patterns of thinking and changing one's outlook.

Note - 5HTP shouldn't be used in combination with certain anti-depressant medications such as SSRI's as there may be a risk of serotonin overload...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: recordinghacks on July 28, 2009, 02:24:52 PM

Oliver Archut wrote on Sun, 26 July 2009 19:29

Somewhere a couple of decca pages ago were the general line out of the mods.

I captured them here:
http://recordinghacks.com/microphones/TnC-Audio/ACM-1200

I bought a pair of these mics and am eager to see the mods begin shipping. One of my 1200s overloads easily (e.g. on drum overheads, hitting the floor tom causes the mic to break up). I'm hopeful the circuit upgrade will fix it. If not, I'll swap the capsule.

On the topic of the mic pres, one of my four is DOA. Chance posted here previously that DOAs would be replaced once the primary shipping was complete. With the exception of the MIA buyers, I think shipping finished several months ago, but no word has been posted (that I've seen) about DOAs. I'm not in a hurry, but I would appreciate confirmation that this is still the plan.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Oliver Archut on July 28, 2009, 04:07:45 PM

I captured them here:
http://recordinghacks.com/microphones/TnC-Audio/ACM-1200

I bought a pair of these mics and am eager to see the mods begin shipping. One of my 1200s overloads easily (e.g. on drum overheads, hitting the floor tom causes the mic to break up). I'm hopeful the circuit upgrade will fix it. If not, I'll swap the capsule.

Hello Matthew,

thank you for taking the time to point it out, your web-page looks great.
The overload issue is quite likely the electronics, that far I have not come across a bad capsule in the 1200.

Here at AMI we finished the 49 x-former batch today so what is left 12 type and the 67 type for the 1200. Will try to get them done as soon as possible.

Best regards,

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on July 28, 2009, 04:12:57 PM

Yes, Oliver just called with the good news that the transformers and boards are also ready for the 49-like version (47-like is already ready).

Working on the web page with photos and all information, hopefully will go up tonight or tomorrow.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on July 28, 2009, 04:40:14 PM

compasspnt wrote on Tue, 28 July 2009 13:12

Yes, Oliver just called with the good news that the transformers and boards are also ready for the 49-like version (47-like is already ready).

Working on the web page with photos and all information, hopefully will go up tonight or tomorrow.

Oh man, that means I'm going to have to decide.... I could be agonizing over this for days now.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on July 28, 2009, 04:50:52 PM

47-like for my 2..........or maybe........

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on July 28, 2009, 05:35:47 PM

crazydoc wrote on Sun, 26 July 2009 19:06

Thanks for your prompt response, Mr. Manning. However, a cursory review of the last page shows several folks who have had no response to emails. I realize Chance has had an issue with clinical depression, but hopefully he was amenable to appropriate treatment, and things should be improving by now.

My question was not regarding delivery issues, which need to be addressed on an individual basis, but rather the defective equipment which seems to have been rather pervasive. It would seem that the resolution of general categories of these problems (DOA units, units [mics and preamps] unusable due to noise issues, design defects such as the gain switch in the preamps, etc.) could be more expeditiously dealt with in a post or two here.

At one point it looked like Steve Hogan was going to have a fix for many of the preamp problems, but he seems to have vanished from the boards.

However, if you prefer that we all deal with this through individual emails to Chance, so be it. Hopefully, he will answer.

Chance hasn't responded to any of the last few e-mails I've sent him inquiring about what will happen with defective 81 preamps (these e-mails spanning a couple months at least). As far as I know, there is no TNC response to these inquiries either on the forum or privately. In the old days, both Terry and Chance stated that the warranty would be honored, but of recent everyone has their mouths shut.

Personally, I'm not going to waste my energy throwing a fuss if it turns out the warranty will not be honored. I just would like to know so that I know my options and can get on with it. Although, as Steve Hogan has been MIA for about 3 months now, it doesn't seem like there are any options for people without the serious tech skills.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: retro1 on July 28, 2009, 08:20:00 PM

recordinghacks wrote on Tue, 28 July 2009 13:24

With the exception of the MIA buyers, I think shipping finished several months ago....

That is not correct.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on July 28, 2009, 09:55:22 PM

retro1 wrote on Tue, 28 July 2009 17:20

recordinghacks wrote on Tue, 28 July 2009 13:24

With the exception of the MIA buyers, I think shipping finished several months ago....

That is not correct.

With the exception of the MIA buyers and the ones who were just left out for miscellanious reasons as yet unresolved.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Future_One on July 29, 2009, 08:10:29 AM

Paul G wrote on Sat, 25 July 2009 21:12

Oliver Archut wrote on Sat, 25 July 2009 14:20

There are several other mic manufactures that make a similar type to the 1200 and the mods will fit with reference to dimension, will they sound the same? I do not know.

Hi Oliver. Do you think that the Apex 460 might be a good candidate for this mod? I haven't been able to get my hands on a 1200 yet. Thanks.

Paul

I'm also interested in this question.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TB-AV on July 29, 2009, 08:23:23 AM

"Although, as Steve Hogan has been MIA for about 3 months now, it doesn't seem like there are any options for people without the serious tech skills."

Steve has production transformers in hand and has finalized the Power Supply section. His intention as of a week ago, is to get back to his gain switch reconfiguration about the first week of August.

Tom B

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on July 29, 2009, 02:10:19 PM

Chance is working today on how to deal with DOA units, and more.

By the way, over 90% of things worked very well, and most people are happy.

Chance is working on the others as fast as he can.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on July 29, 2009, 05:24:18 PM

compasspnt wrote on Tue, 28 July 2009 21:12

Yes, Oliver just called with the good news that the transformers and boards are also ready for the 49-like version (47-like is already ready).

Working on the web page with photos and all information, hopefully will go up tonight or tomorrow.

excellent-i emailed oliver a while back, and didnt hear back; is there another route i should take to try to order one of each w/ transformer? thanks much.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Paul G on July 29, 2009, 05:26:02 PM

Thanks for the update, Terry.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: frankrizzo on July 29, 2009, 10:08:06 PM

compasspnt wrote on Wed, 29 July 2009 13:10

By the way, over 90% of things worked very well, and most people are happy.

im gonna beg to differ on that one. i think most are just being nice as well as patient. all of my pre amps are not useable. id say 90% of the mics work. hope chance gets well. keep us posted .

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on July 30, 2009, 01:34:52 AM

In Terry's defense, I think he was referring to only the mics when he said 90%.

Obviously, everyone knows that 100% of the 81s are not functioning properly. It seems a fair number have 73s that work properly; maybe half? 84 defect rate seems to lie somewhere between the 73 and the 81. It's really too bad, but good to hear that Chance is currently working to resolve it. I'm looking forward to a solution soon.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: crazydoc on July 30, 2009, 09:43:39 AM

frankrizzo wrote on Thu, 30 July 2009 03:08

keep us posted

I think this is the operative phrase, and what has been so lacking.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on July 30, 2009, 11:25:30 AM

For those who have been asking, finally here is the link for the upgrade printed circuit boards and transformers.

This is intended as a fun, mod-it-yourself exercise, although we have of course tested the circuits extensively, and I have been using the modded microphones here on high-level sessions very happily. But of course we cannot control what is done by you in the field...in other words, modify at your own risk. This is a DIY project.

We are providing the printed circuit boards free of charge to those who ask for them when ordering the 47-inspired and 49 inspired transformers, for the first 50 of each. This is because it took longer than we had all hoped to get these ready.

Please read all instructions and parts lists carefully.

More photos and schematics will be posted soon.

http://www.compasspointstudios.com/bulldog/bulldog-tnc_upgra des.html

Best regards!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: littlehat on July 30, 2009, 12:12:41 PM

Called the number...

It's a FAX machine.

Sent my payment through paypal!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on July 30, 2009, 12:20:13 PM

Yes it is, you are right.

As it says on the website...

...please e-mail tnctransformers@tab-funkenwerk.com with your phone number so we can contact you, or fax CC info (number, exp date, name on card) to 785-697-2602.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on July 30, 2009, 01:39:14 PM

Terry & Oliver,

Thanks so much for the info and the great opportunity.

Looking forward to it.

Cheers,
j

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on July 30, 2009, 01:44:11 PM

Further news for the minority that had problems with their recent GB equipment.

TNC are almost finished setting up a repair station where they will be looking to take care of any manufacturing problems.

News will be posted soon about how and where to send any items that need to be addressed.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on July 30, 2009, 02:32:35 PM

awesome! just ordered mod boards/xformers. thanks guys!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cnixon on July 30, 2009, 03:26:33 PM

rjd2 wrote on Thu, 30 July 2009 13:32

awesome! just ordered mod boards/xformers. thanks guys!

Me to. Thanks

Charlie

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on July 30, 2009, 03:49:25 PM

compasspnt wrote on Thu, 30 July 2009 10:44

Further news for the minority that had problems with their recent GB equipment.

TNC are almost finished setting up a repair station where they will be looking to take care of any manufacturing problems.

News will be posted soon about how and where to send any items that need to be addressed.

This is AWESOME news Terry!!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on July 30, 2009, 04:05:41 PM

cnixon wrote on Thu, 30 July 2009 12:26

rjd2 wrote on Thu, 30 July 2009 13:32

awesome! just ordered mod boards/xformers. thanks guys!

Me to. Thanks

Charlie

Me too!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on July 30, 2009, 04:10:33 PM

compasspnt wrote on Thu, 30 July 2009 10:44

Further news for the minority that had problems with their recent GB equipment.

TNC are almost finished setting up a repair station where they will be looking to take care of any manufacturing problems.

News will be posted soon about how and where to send any items that need to be addressed.

Is this getting paid for somehow? I'd hate to see it taken out of Chance's & your hides somehow. I think there was mention some time ago of creating a group fund to take care of doa's, if so I'd gladly contribute to it, as an owner of 7 mics & 4 pres all of which are working fine (though admittedly I haven't used the eq sections of my pres yet.)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on July 30, 2009, 04:15:25 PM

Thanks so much Paul.

Right now, it would be something that Chance and I would be taking care of, although there is a very kind person in the background helping to set it all up.

We are trying to contact the Chinese manufacturer, who would be the ultimate Warranter, and see if they will help defray the costs.

This will surely beat having to ship everything to China and back at purchaser's expense!

I will be proud to finally see a unit that has the problems. All of the ones I have tried, and all close friends that have them have had no problems so far.

Regards to all.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on July 30, 2009, 05:17:11 PM

I should hope that, in order to keep TNC's business ($250,000 ain't exactly a small order) the manufacturer would be forthcoming in providing some reimbursment for repair costs.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on July 30, 2009, 06:51:33 PM

Terry, I ordered and paid for my transformers when this was first announced. Are you saying the boards will be included or that I need to email and ask for them to be included? Don't want to overload the in-box unnecessarily, but don't want to miss out either.

Thanks
Greg

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on July 30, 2009, 08:05:04 PM

Greg, have you received any transformers yet?

Either way, do email and make Oliver aware of that.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: against88 on July 30, 2009, 08:08:10 PM

just ordered a T49 transformer + pcb. stoked for another project!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on July 30, 2009, 09:52:30 PM

compasspnt wrote on Fri, 31 July 2009 10:05

Greg, have you received any transformers yet?

Either way, do email and make Oliver aware of that.

No transformers. I ordered 2 each of 47s and 12s. So am I emailing to ask for boards or because I haven't received anything yet?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: frankrizzo on July 30, 2009, 10:05:27 PM

chris carter wrote on Thu, 30 July 2009 00:34

In Terry's defense, I think he was referring to only the mics when he said 90%.

Obviously, everyone knows that 100% of the 81s are not functioning properly. It seems a fair number have 73s that work properly;
go back and read bro? not what im seeing. the 73-s are not useabe sorry? stop the madness. i can understand the loyalty though. it just has nothing to do with whats going on so i would stop the seemingly propoganda. its a big mess for me and not what was promissed. as far as i can see.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on July 30, 2009, 10:40:42 PM

Gee Frank, sorry.

We will get your $200 mic pre's working as soon as possible.

Sorry for the delay, everything just got much MORE HUGER than was ever anticipated.

BTW, my two 73's worked great out of the box, wish I had gotten more.

Or, wish you had gotten mine.

Back soon with info.

Regards.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cnixon on July 30, 2009, 11:10:18 PM

Interesting this thread, some see it half full and some see it half empty. My ACMP 73 and ACMP 84, which were cheaper than posted earlier, are fine and are worth much more than what I paid. I do feel for the people that have units that are not up to par, but I guess I am one of the lucky ones. Lucky ones, I have read on various forums post from people that do not post very often that were part of the Group Buy, and their post so often start with, I must be one of the lucky ones because my pre's are fine and...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigtom on July 31, 2009, 12:05:48 AM

I'm super excited about these mods, but am not a tech kind a guy. Any way to get these mods done by someone that knows what they are doing.

Thanks
Big Tom Perkins

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Hallams on July 31, 2009, 12:51:56 AM

Berolzheimer wrote on Fri, 31 July 2009 06:10

compasspnt wrote on Thu, 30 July 2009 10:44

Further news for the minority that had problems with their recent GB equipment.

TNC are almost finished setting up a repair station where they will be looking to take care of any manufacturing problems.

News will be posted soon about how and where to send any items that need to be addressed.

Is this getting paid for somehow? I'd hate to see it taken out of Chance's & your hides somehow. I think there was mention some time ago of creating a group fund to take care of doa's, if so I'd gladly contribute to it, as an owner of 7 mics & 4 pres all of which are working fine (though admittedly I haven't used the eq sections of my pres yet.)

+1
As soon as you, (Chance, Terry and the silent helper), start having to fork out a few $$ for the repair of DOA's or need to cover the cost of a tech's time then i think that's the time we should set up the fund to cover these costs, if the manufacturer is not coming to the party. This way we can keep the "community" paradigm up front in this whole thing. All my mics were in perfect working order on arrival, but i do feel it's part of the deal for me to chip in so those whose gear isn't up to par can have it fixed in a setup that distributes the cost over all who took part, and prevent the cost being carried by those who were good enough to organize the whole thing. but it has to be voluntary.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cameron_k on July 31, 2009, 01:12:50 AM

I'm happy to contribute.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on July 31, 2009, 01:51:43 AM

A repair venture would be greatly appreciated. In my case and I'm sure many others, some kind of parts swapping would be preferable to shipping the units 1/2 way around the world, at least as far as the pres go. I had 5 out of 14 mics defectively unusable and the same issues with 5 out of 6 pres that most others are having. One worked great tho.... And the pres are nice even without the eq.
Chance had said he was going to send me some non-defective mics but they never came and he stopped answering my repeated emails. I decided after reading that he was having a hard time with the depression thing that I would just let it sit for a while. I hope he starts feeling better soon and is back to his old self. He was very very helpful during the shipping process.

The 310s are really great and the 900 is equally nice. Really happy with those, and I'm hoping to purchase the mods for the 1200s and 6802s.

I too would be willing to pitch in a few bucks for a fix BTW.

Thanks for all your efforts on this Terry, Chance, and Oliver.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Oliver Archut on July 31, 2009, 08:39:37 PM

Hello Guys,

since the announcement we got a bunch of order in and all are being processed in the order received. We will start to ship out orders on Monday.

Regarding the x-formers for non TNC mics, it seems that the Apex 460 is the 1200 without the switches, so it can be used less the switching option.

The possibilities are endless, the circuit board is delivered uncut and can be cut to any desired size. The sound?
Who should know! The Lucas techs circuit is pretty basic and the x-formers are designed to work in a wide range of application. So I encourage anyone to try it and report back.
If I can be of any assistance I will try to do my best, but can not guarantee the outcome.

Good Modding.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Paul G on August 01, 2009, 12:04:21 AM

Oliver Archut wrote on Fri, 31 July 2009 20:39

Hello Guys,

since the announcement we got a bunch of order in and all are being processed in the order received. We will start to ship out orders on Monday.

Regarding the x-formers for non TNC mics, it seems that the Apex 460 is the 1200 without the switches, so it can be used less the switching option.

The possibilities are endless, the circuit board is delivered uncut and can be cut to any desired size. The sound?
Who should know! The Lucas techs circuit is pretty basic and the x-formers are designed to work in a wide range of application. So I encourage anyone to try it and report back.
If I can be of any assistance I will try to do my best, but can not guarantee the outcome.

Good Modding.

Thanks Oliver. Emailed you with order info request.

Paul

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: littlehat on August 03, 2009, 01:28:44 PM

So should I expect an email to confirm shipping?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Oliver Archut on August 03, 2009, 01:43:42 PM

As soon as the units ship (USPS) I will send confirmation via e-mail.

Best regards,

Oliver

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Nizzle on August 04, 2009, 12:17:44 PM

I'm ordering upgrades for 6 mics today.

QUESTION:

Upon reading the schematic, am I to understand that I also need to purchase an EF860 tube for the 47-like upgrade? If so - can you recommend a brand?

thnx.

-tom

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on August 04, 2009, 12:33:45 PM

Yes, you have to supply ALL electronic parts...the boards are "unstuffed."

As for supplier of tube, others will have to recommend that.

Also note that the schematics for the other versions are not posted yet, coming very soon.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: mattrussell on August 04, 2009, 12:46:13 PM

i'm a little confused. because i don't have one of the mics with me, can someone tell me if i need to order the EF860 tube separately (as well as the mouser parts)? maybe the EF860 is the tube that's in the mic already?

if i do need to get those, where are most people buying tubes like that?

EDIT: duh, i didn't see tom's post.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on August 04, 2009, 12:55:30 PM

Note that there is a list of other tubes that can be substituted.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Nizzle on August 04, 2009, 01:03:54 PM

compasspnt wrote on Tue, 04 August 2009 09:55

Note that there is a list of other tubes that can be substituted.

Do you have a preference? I'm assuming the EF 860 is Oliver's or your preference?

thnx.

-t

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Oliver Archut on August 04, 2009, 02:10:56 PM

Hello Guys,

my preference is the 6HM6 by GE, but the EF860 is close and readily available. It is in the end a EF80 made at WF in former GDR.
Those tubes are easy to get and over 100000 are lingering on the shelfs tube dealers. The ratio is about 3 out of ten for microphone use. So with prices of around $3 or so, it is a great buy.

check ebay here:
http://shop.ebay.com/?_from=R40&_trksid=p3907.m38.l1313& amp;_nkw=EF860&_sacat=See-All-Categories

for NOS tube:
www.tubesandmore.com

or any other good tube store out there.

Barry,

in order to live healthy I had to become an (organic) hobby farmer. Aside my pigs, I have about 4 bulls, 6 steers, always around 200 chicken a hand full of Ducks and Geese.
Looking to get a couple of Buffalo, but still have to sell a few more x-formers to be able to get them a patch big enough that they deserve.
I do not care if there are properly called Bison but probably the best misnaming in history, think about what did you kill Bison Bill!!!

The horses are just for fun for my kids. 1 1/4 horse, two ponies, two donkeys.

Best regards,

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: mattrussell on August 04, 2009, 04:12:53 PM

great stuff oliver, thanks. ordering today.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: mattrussell on August 04, 2009, 04:52:00 PM

was about to order...terry, i think your site is down. was working just a little while ago.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on August 04, 2009, 05:07:49 PM

Hmmm, yes I see it is down...all my sites, and even the ISP's main page Must be a server problem, but if their own is down, they should be working on it.

I'll keep watching it, and hopefully it can be back soon.

Thanks.

EDIT: Website is back up.

http://www.compasspointstudios.com/bulldog/bulldog-tnc_upgra des.html

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: organica on August 04, 2009, 07:13:57 PM

Oliver Archut wrote on Tue, 04 August 2009 14:10

in order to live healthy I had to become an (organic) hobby farmer. Aside my pigs, I have about 4 bulls, 6 steers, always around 200 chicken a hand full of Ducks and Geese.
Looking to get a couple of Buffalo, but still have to sell a few more x-formers to be able to get them a patch big enough that they deserve.
I do not care if there are properly called Bison but probably the best misnaming in history, think about what did you kill Bison Bill!!!

The horses are just for fun for my kids. 1 1/4 horse, two ponies, two donkeys.

Best regards,

Oliver ,

Could you please send up a dozen eggs with that mod ?

Thanks .

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: fiasco ( P.M.DuMont ) on August 04, 2009, 07:16:58 PM

I'll take some Foie Gras. Thanks

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Oliver Archut on August 04, 2009, 07:38:47 PM

Oliver ,

Could you please send up a dozen eggs with that mod ?

Thanks .

If you pay for overnight shipping! No problem...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: recordinghacks on August 04, 2009, 11:35:45 PM

Are the C12-inspired PCB, schematic, and transformer expected within 30 days, or will it be a couple months?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Oliver Archut on August 04, 2009, 11:48:30 PM

C12 x-former will be available within 10 days, I have the circuit here for reviewing it and as soon my test is done here the data/info will be published.

Best regards,

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: BobbyBizzle on August 05, 2009, 01:47:40 AM

Does anyone know where I could go to hear the differences between these mic mods? I'm really interested in modding my 1200, but I'm unsure of the different characteristics between the mics that the mods were made for (C12, U47,67,etc...).

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on August 05, 2009, 06:18:58 AM

Oliver Archut wrote on Wed, 05 August 2009 13:48

C12 x-former will be available within 10 days, I have the circuit here for reviewing it and as soon my test is done here the data/info will be published.

Best regards,

Do you know which tubes you'll be recommending for the C12 style circuit yet?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: ericjazz on August 06, 2009, 04:45:03 PM

Email sent on Aug. 1st to order 1* M49 mod kit and 2*T58. Waiting for an invoice... Thanks.
All the best.
Eric

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Oliver Archut on August 06, 2009, 05:06:39 PM

Hello Eric,

the T58 are on the machine right now, and as soon as they are ready will send you an invoice. 80% if the T47/49 went out with board, the next batch will leave here tomorrow.

Best regards,

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: mushy on August 07, 2009, 02:36:22 PM

Oliver Archut wrote on Thu, 06 August 2009 16:06

80% if the T47/49 went out with board, the next batch will leave here tomorrow.

Should we have gotten some kind email confirmation? I paid and haven't heard anything. I know it must be a daunting task. I'm just wondering what to expect.

Thanks.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Oliver Archut on August 07, 2009, 03:19:17 PM

Keeping up with everything is quite a challenge, for the stuff that went out today and yesterday I will send the confirmation e-mails later today. The rest of domestic orders should be finished/ship today, foreign order after the weekend.

Best regards,

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on August 07, 2009, 04:55:29 PM

BobbyBizzle wrote on Tue, 04 August 2009 22:47

Does anyone know where I could go to hear the differences between these mic mods? I'm really interested in modding my 1200, but I'm unsure of the different characteristics between the mics that the mods were made for (C12, U47,67,etc...).

I don't know about comparisons, but if you're in the LA area you're welcome to come check out my 1200/ 47ish mod. Probably be a couple months before I get it done though.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on August 07, 2009, 05:20:28 PM

BobbyBizzle wrote on Wed, 05 August 2009 01:47

Does anyone know where I could go to hear the differences between these mic mods? I'm really interested in modding my 1200, but I'm unsure of the different characteristics between the mics that the mods were made for (C12, U47,67,etc...).

The only place I know of personally right now is here at Compass Point.

Seriously, if you happen to come to The Bahamas, I can hook them up for you.

From observations:

The 47-inspired mod has a good bit of that "wiggly waveform" sound, esp in the midrange. Not exactly like a real 47 of course, but a very good and highly usable microphone. I have done great male lead vocals on it, and it has often been on bass amp.

The C-12-inspired is "cleaner," and has a bit more sparkle in the high end. I've used it on female vocals, often on piano, and on certain drums (floor tom) successfully.

The 49-inspired is perhaps the best "for anything" mic, although any of these three could fit reasonably into that category. Solid midrange, solid over the whole spectrum, good but not over-pronounced in the high-highs.

Hard of course to describe sonics exactly, and not sure if this helps any or not.

The 67-inspired version has not come here as yet, so can't comment on that.

Whatever, remember we are NOT saying this makes an inexpensive Chinese microphone into an exact replica of a $10k vintage classic.

But the mods make them MUCH better mics than stock.

Be sure, again, that you have some tech/soldering skills. This is not necessarily "easy-easy" for complete novices.

Happy Modders Day!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: littlehat on August 07, 2009, 08:00:44 PM

Got my 47-ish Xfmr and board today.
Never did get an invoice or shipping confirmation.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Oliver Archut on August 07, 2009, 08:33:54 PM

Hello Littlehat,

I think I either send an e-mail with the invoice or it is the box. If you have not got an e-mail invoice please PM me and I will try it again.

Best regards,

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: crazydoc on August 07, 2009, 11:20:00 PM

Please excuse my ignorance regarding the TNC mic mods.

Since the headbasket/grille of a microphone helps shape its sonic characteristics, would it make a significant difference whether the 6802 or the 1200 were used for the mods (assuming they both use the same capsule)?

From outward appearances it would seem that the 1200 headbasket would be more suited to the "12" and "47" versions, and the 6800 to the "49" and "67" mods. I realize there may be other differences in volume, mesh size and number of layers that would also have significant influences.

Any thoughts?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on August 08, 2009, 10:00:31 AM

does anyone possibly know which page(or where) there is a BOM for the 47 and 49 mod boards? i know they are probably in this thread somewhere, but once these threads hit 150 pages or so, it can get tough diving thru the past x-thousand posts to find it.

(or is there a chance we could make that info its own thread with the info on the 1st page, so everyone who does it can have it easily accessible?). sorry if this is lame and lazy...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on August 08, 2009, 12:49:43 PM

What is BOM?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: littlehat on August 08, 2009, 12:51:49 PM

Oliver Archut wrote on Fri, 07 August 2009 20:33

Hello Littlehat,

I think I either send an e-mail with the invoice or it is the box. If you have not got an e-mail invoice please PM me and I will try it again.

Best regards,

Got it.

Thanks Oliver and Terry and Chance!

I'll have some major reports on my TNC gear usage soon.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on August 08, 2009, 01:09:08 PM

compasspnt wrote on Sat, 08 August 2009 09:49

What is BOM?

Bill Of Materials. The parts list, basically.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TB-AV on August 08, 2009, 01:19:12 PM

BOM is at BOP

http://www.compasspointstudios.com/bulldog/bulldog-tnc_upgra des.html

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on August 08, 2009, 01:56:10 PM

compasspnt wrote on Sat, 08 August 2009 17:49

What is BOM?

sorry, as mentioned, Bill Of Materials. forgot i wasnt in DIY synth builders land...

EDIT: Terry, quick question. on the 47-ish pcb, R1(bottom right resistor) looks like a new-old-stock resistor-big and blocky and brown. any reason for this? or did you not populate that pcb personally, and it was maybe just a "whatever was laying around" thing?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on August 08, 2009, 03:52:39 PM

Personally I didn't build that board...will try to find out.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on August 08, 2009, 04:49:56 PM

If anyone has a couple of 1200's they don't want, PM me.

If I don't answer right away, I may have passed out from holding my breath too long.

K?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: crazydoc on August 08, 2009, 05:20:31 PM

rjd2 wrote on Sat, 08 August 2009 18:56

EDIT: Terry, quick question. on the 47-ish pcb, R1(bottom right resistor) looks like a new-old-stock resistor-big and blocky and brown. any reason for this? or did you not populate that pcb personally, and it was maybe just a "whatever was laying around" thing?
That looks like a 100M 5% carbon composition resistor that was substituted for the 75M called for in the parts list. Maybe it was hard to find a suitable metal or carbon film resistor, which are what the others appear to be.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on August 08, 2009, 10:20:46 PM

Sounds like delayed gratification to me...

Not into it.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cnixon on August 08, 2009, 11:09:56 PM

Hey Bill, looks like we are almost neighbors. I have a 1200, not looking to sell just now, but have the U47 style design from Oliver on the way as I type. Once the mod is complete, you are welcome to give it a workout in your studio.

I will not attempt to do the mod myself and have found someone that does that type of work, but he is cross country. If you know someone local that does mods to mic's, let me know.

Charlie

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: mushy on August 09, 2009, 06:01:26 PM

I wonder if Oliver can tell us a bit more about these transformers. I've already ordered a pair of T47s. What can I expect from these? Are they just less expensive forms of BV8's? If so, why are they half the price? Can you give us some specs on them beyond just the ratios?

Thanks.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on August 09, 2009, 08:14:42 PM

I think Oliver said something about them using off the shelf laminations, rather than the custom ones needed for the exact vintage clones. I don't know how that translates; whether it's lesser quality or just different?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: BobbyBizzle on August 09, 2009, 08:49:45 PM

That you very much for the insight! That was exactly what I was looking for. I haven't had any experience with any of those mics so I had nothing to judge by. I know the C12 is expensive, but that's about it...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: mattrussell on August 10, 2009, 10:37:59 AM

oliver, can you share with everyone if you have gone past the freebie PCB's or not? i placed an order for (4) of the T47's last week and i didn't pay the extra $20 per PCB not knowing if i should have or not.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Oliver Archut on August 10, 2009, 11:06:51 AM

Hello Guys,

that far we are over 50x-former, but not 50 customers!!!
So the next 14 (have to count) customers will still get free PCBs.

Regarding specification, the x-formers are not identical in make up, or size to the classic ones, that they were molded after. The specs however are fairly similar and in order to save production cost, they are PCB mountable so they can be wound on a full automatic machine. The magnetic Alloy is identical with the one we use for our BV8/11/12, but an off the shelf lamination type that our German Lamination Supplier suggested.

Technical specs? For the moment I have to say sorry, because those x-former are a part of the TNC upgrade mods, no other info other than for the update can be supplied at the moment due to time issues, maybe later.

Best regards,

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on August 10, 2009, 11:19:01 AM

Oliver,

I received my T49's Friday.

Thanks for following up. I appreciate it.

Terry,

I see that the bulldog upgrade section of your site has a few further details concerning the T49 option for the 1200's. I am looking forward to the related T49 schematic and parts list.

Best Regards and Thanks again!

Cheers,
jonathan

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cnixon on August 10, 2009, 11:27:29 PM

Got my U47 style mic mod gear today from Oliver, but a little confused about the PC board. It is "unstuffed" and I do not know what or who to contact to get the additional parts needed as they are not posted on the site by Terry for ordering. Can someone point me in the right direction?

Thanks - Charlie

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cameron_k on August 10, 2009, 11:48:22 PM

Charlie, check out the circuit diagram at the bottom of that page. Parts are listed there.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: mushy on August 10, 2009, 11:53:17 PM

cameron_k wrote on Mon, 10 August 2009 23:48

Charlie, check out the circuit diagram at the bottom of that page. Parts are listed there.

Digikey and Mouser are where you will want to order the parts from.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cnixon on August 11, 2009, 12:13:29 AM

Thanks for the replys guys, but the page I ordered from does not have the diagrams with parts for the PC card. I must have missed the proper page, this is the page I know.

http://www.compasspointstudios.com/lucas/bulldog-tnc_upgrade s.html

Thanks - Charlie

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on August 11, 2009, 12:31:10 AM

From that very page:

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on August 11, 2009, 02:17:18 AM

cnixon wrote on Mon, 10 August 2009 21:13

Thanks for the replys guys, but the page I ordered from does not have the diagrams with parts for the PC card. I must have missed the proper page, this is the page I know.

http://www.compasspointstudios.com/lucas/bulldog-tnc_upgrade s.html

Thanks - Charlie

Hmm... There seem to be some formatting issues on that page which make it a bit difficult to follow. I had wondered whether it was just me. Apparently not.

I took the liberty of reformatting the page for my own ease of use when the time comes to make the mods.

All the images are being pulled from compasspointstudios.com, and all of the text is identical, but I find it easier.

It's here: http://www.dirtstudios.net/ACM1200Mod

Terry, please let me know if this is out of bounds in any way, and I'll remove it immediately.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Future_One on August 11, 2009, 02:22:22 AM

Devin Knutson wrote on Tue, 11 August 2009 01:17

cnixon wrote on Mon, 10 August 2009 21:13

Thanks for the replys guys, but the page I ordered from does not have the diagrams with parts for the PC card. I must have missed the proper page, this is the page I know.

http://www.compasspointstudios.com/lucas/bulldog-tnc_upgrade s.html

Thanks - Charlie

Hmm... There seem to be some formatting issues on that page which make it a bit difficult to follow. I had wondered whether it was just me. Apparently not.

I took the liberty of reformatting the page for my own ease of use when the time comes to make the mods.

All the images are being pulled from compasspointstudios.com, and all of the text is identical, but I find it easier.

It's here: http://www.dirtstudios.net/ACM1200Mod

Terry, please let me know if this is out of bounds in any way, and I'll remove it immediately.

Wow! That's so much better.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on August 11, 2009, 09:36:53 AM

ive got my xformers, and the 3 pcb's are identical.

im assuming the pcb's, and parts save xformer, are the same for 49 and 47 mods?

i put my order in last week(cant waait to see this $6 resistor), and will be doing one 47, one 49, and leaving one stock; then comparing the 3. ill try to post something if i have the patience-TRY is the operative word...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: TB-AV on August 11, 2009, 10:32:02 AM

Can someone give me a little advice on the schematic. I have the old style 1200 with no switches.

So which parts can I leave out.

C1 not needed?

But what about resistors A & B Can I simply remove A and connect B to line from capsule to tube?

Also just so I am clear. The pins on the transformer between A&B as well as between C&D get jumpered.

Thanks!

EDIT: and one other thing. Do we want the ground buss to come into contact with the metal frame once assembled or insulated from the frame?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Oliver Archut on August 11, 2009, 11:28:55 AM

ive got my xformers, and the 3 pcb's are identical

The general idea was to have one base PCB and just by changing or jumping some parts the circuit will change. The same board can be used for 12, 47/49 like mod and for the 67 like an additional PCB is needed.

The 12 and the 49 type mics are nearly identical in parts on the PCB but tube and x-former are different to give the mic the desired sound.

If you guys solder on the x-former, be super careful and only solder on the PCB pins on the bottom, not on the side!!!
If you solder too hot, too long (over 20 sec.)or on the sidepins, you will rapture the AWG 43 wire!.

So please careful.

Best

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on August 11, 2009, 11:50:29 AM

excellent, thanks for clarifying oliver.

so just to double check, the actual components on the pcbs are identical for:

c-12 mod
47 mod
49 mod

correct? thanks much.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: crazydoc on August 11, 2009, 03:37:34 PM

rjd2 wrote on Tue, 11 August 2009 16:50

so just to double check, the actual components on the pcbs are identical for:

c-12 mod
47 mod
49 mod

correct? thanks much.
No, the boards are identical but components (and possibly parts locations) will differ, depending on the iteration. Apparently the C12 and the 49 parts are nearly the same.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: RightOnMusic on August 11, 2009, 04:28:25 PM

0dbfs wrote on Mon, 10 August 2009 11:19

Terry,

I see that the bulldog upgrade section of your site has a few further details concerning the T49 option for the 1200's. I am looking forward to the related T49 schematic and parts list.

^that

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on August 11, 2009, 04:42:54 PM

crazydoc wrote on Sat, 08 August 2009 17:20

rjd2 wrote on Sat, 08 August 2009 18:56

EDIT: Terry, quick question. on the 47-ish pcb, R1(bottom right resistor) looks like a new-old-stock resistor-big and blocky and brown. any reason for this? or did you not populate that pcb personally, and it was maybe just a "whatever was laying around" thing?

That looks like a 100M 5% carbon composition resistor that was substituted for the 75M called for in the parts list. Maybe it was hard to find a suitable metal or carbon film resistor, which are what the others appear to be.

Yes, 100 or 75 will work just fine. The one we used was $6, and the cheapest of the others was $12...your choice.

0dbfs wrote on Mon, 10 August 2009 11:19

I see that the bulldog upgrade section of your site has a few further details concerning the T49 option for the 1200's. I am looking forward to the related T49 schematic and parts list.

It will be a few days, but we will try to get that posted asap.

The website page for the mods has a few html problems, I know. It works differently on various platforms and OS's. Mario has already been trying to help me get it better...Devin, thanks for your redo as well.

I will get around to that whenever I find any time at all.

Anyone know any reasonably priced Mac OSX web design software that really works well?

Regards.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: crazydoc on August 11, 2009, 09:37:31 PM

compasspnt wrote on Tue, 11 August 2009 21:42

Yes, 100 or 75 will work just fine. The one we used was $6, and the cheapest of the others was $12...your choice.

You can get one of each of these and wire them in series, if you want to spend only $1:

http://www.mouser.com/Search/ProductDetail.aspx?qs=sGAEpiMZZ MukHu%252bjC5l7YbQWD%2f3ivzwp5I9BOCsbToA%3d

http://www.mouser.com/Search/ProductDetail.aspx?qs=sGAEpiMZZ MtMTfExsNintc4dHz3vpK3gNntotHi2C6k%3d

I don't see any cheap way around the three 1G resistors. This one is a little cheaper ($4.20 vs $6.23)), but would probably be a little large for the board:

http://www.mouser.com/Search/ProductDetail.aspx?qs=sGAEpiMZZ MvhlCB8CTbT5Ms979VEDSny1p1omhmpZQo%3d

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: recordinghacks on August 12, 2009, 11:47:09 AM

Oliver and Terry,

sorry if I missed this in an earlier post. Are the ribbon-mic transformers shipping yet?

(For the TnC ACM-2/fathead style and ACM-3/'121' style)

I'd sent in an order back when they were announced, but never heard back so I assumed they'd been delayed.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on August 12, 2009, 12:27:44 PM

Hi Matt!

Those ribbon mic transformers are developed, but not quite ready for shipping. We will work more on that, and let you know.

Best regards!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: BobbyBizzle on August 13, 2009, 12:36:20 AM

Hey guys,

I have a question for everyone. I own all budget mics and a few mics that I received from the group buy (1200, 310, 900, acm3). How does the stock 1200 compare to to mics that cost several times their price (nt 2k, neumann mics, 414, etc.)? I've never had a chance to use any of these more expensive mics and I'm curious to how people who have seen the "other side" feel about the 1200...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on August 13, 2009, 12:47:56 AM

Hi BobBiz,

The stock 1200 is a pretty decent mic for the money, but...

Stock, it has a fairly lame transformer by world-class standards, and the electronics are middle-of-the-road at best. The capsule is actually decent, but it's hard to tell that in comparison to high-end microphones without better elects and xfrmr.

If I had a choice for someone to give me either a 1200 or a NT2k, I would choose the NT. As for Neumann, if it was an older classic, say an 87, I would certainly take the Neumann (it gets harder to decide if you're talking about their current crop though...). 414...certainly an older EB would be far preferable, and probably even the new ones.

However, with the modifications, the new electronics and the TAB-Funk transformer, the 1200 becomes quite another beast.

Having used the (1200) 47-like, 49-like, and 12-like mods for a while now, I would take any of those three over the NT, any new Neumann, and any new AKG.

I say this to answer your direct question, strictly from experience of use in the studio, and not from any promotion or profit motive.

Hope that helps.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: BobbyBizzle on August 13, 2009, 12:44:07 PM

Amazing! Thank you!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: MI on August 13, 2009, 11:05:57 PM

Terry, Oliver,

Got my pair of T47's and pair of T49's today thanks.

I'm quite impressed with the build quality of the trannies.

Is there a schematic and parts list for the 49?

Mario

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: MI on August 13, 2009, 11:13:49 PM

Terry,

Rapidweaver seems like a pretty cheap web design solution for Mac:

http://www.realmacsoftware.com/rapidweaver/

MI

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on August 13, 2009, 11:29:02 PM

Hi Mario,

Yes, the schematic for the 49 will be posted VERY soon.

Thanks, will look into Rapidweaver.

Regards.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on August 14, 2009, 06:20:47 AM

compasspnt wrote on Thu, 13 August 2009 00:47

Having used the (1200) 47-like, 49-like, and 12-like mods for a while now...

Terry, how would you characterize the difference in sound of the 47-like and 49-like? Sorry if this has already been discussed.

Edit:

compasspnt wrote on Fri, 07 August 2009 17:20

From observations:

The 47-inspired mod has a good bit of that "wiggly waveform" sound, esp in the midrange. Not exactly like a real 47 of course, but a very good and highly usable microphone. I have done great male lead vocals on it, and it has often been on bass amp.

The C-12-inspired is "cleaner," and has a bit more sparkle in the high end. I've used it on female vocals, often on piano, and on certain drums (floor tom) successfully.

The 49-inspired is perhaps the best "for anything" mic, although any of these three could fit reasonably into that category. Solid midrange, solid over the whole spectrum, good but not over-pronounced in the high-highs.

Duh, guess it has been discussed. Thanks.
Looks like I'm doing a 47 mod for another member.
I'll be comparing the 1200 to the Apex 460 soon as well to confirm that it's equally mod-able.

Edit-Seems that Oliver has addressed this question already-it is the same mic sans switches.

Since someone didn't see all this coming down the pike...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on August 14, 2009, 09:35:13 AM

a note to the MOD people(terry and co, forgive me if you guys already gave people a heads up on this):

i got my parts from mouser. the MOX "mini-mox" resistors are larger than the pcb spaces. im not yet sure if/how its gonna work with the space the interior of the mic provides; but they are definitely not the parts that are in the photos on the compasspoint site.

there may be a workaround. i was going to stuff/solder my pcbs before opening a mic, but i will now open one up and see how its gonna work. might not be an issue at all. but might.

i just wanted to mention this, as some of you folks might opt to buy your xformers/pcbs, but wait until some people have succesfully completed mods before ordering. mouser is GREAT about returns, i have been ordering from them for years, and their customer service is phenomenal, however, if there are workarounds, it might behoove you to not be at the "beta wave" of modding.

just an fyi.

EDIT-i was able to get R1 and R2 into the space w/ no problems, just a little juggling. probably nothing to worry about here.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: crazydoc on August 14, 2009, 10:24:52 AM

rjd2 wrote on Fri, 14 August 2009 14:35

the MOX "mini-mox" resistors are larger than the pcb spaces.

Yes, they are almost an inch long (though should be easy to fit them in.)

These would be smaller alternatives, though cost a few cents more:

http://www.mouser.com/Search/ProductDetail.aspx?qs=sGAEpiMZZ MvhlCB8CTbT5BsFKFu8ZQXtu8ymsDq3%252bUg%3d

http://www.mouser.com/Search/ProductDetail.aspx?qs=sGAEpiMZZ MvhlCB8CTbT5BsFKFu8ZQXt%2fc2hM0rMiJ8%3d

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: mushy on August 15, 2009, 04:50:24 PM

The one thing your pictures are missing is how and where you are mounting the transformer. Obviously it doesn't fit in the bell housing. Does it need to be shielded? Any suggestions? Pitfalls to avoid?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Slickshoe62 on August 17, 2009, 11:34:30 PM

has everyone received their TNC orders?

I figured Chance needed some time to push out the last of the international orders till he came back to focus on all the "special cases" orders: missing packages, wrong items, and DOAs.

is anybody else in the same boat as me with missing packages?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: ScotcH on August 18, 2009, 10:55:03 AM

So I sent an order for a 47-like mod in to tnctransformers at tab-funkenwerk.com on Aug 11th, but have had no reply. Is that e-mail being monitored?

Thanks!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Oliver Archut on August 18, 2009, 11:06:18 AM

Hello Scotch,

just got back yesterday from a trip to Latch Lake, the lady in charge of the e-mails is sick so I have to take care of the e-mails. Will contact you today latest tomorrow.

Regarding the x-former hook up, I suggested E6000 for the 47/49/67 type of x-formers, you can get it at Hobby Lobby as well as many other places.

Best regards,

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on August 18, 2009, 12:16:41 PM

Oliver Archut wrote on Tue, 18 August 2009 11:06

Regarding the x-former hook up, I suggested E6000 for the 47/49/67 type of x-formers, you can get it at Hobby Lobby as well as many other places.

FYI, E6000 is a craft glue.

If you have an Ace Hardware near you you can buy a case:
http://www.acehardwaresuperstore.com/e6000-glue-37-oz-p-2018 .html?ref=42

They will surely just sell a single tube though.

I have some non-conductive JB-Weld around that I am going to try to us to secure the xformer's.

Cheers,
j

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Oliver Archut on August 18, 2009, 12:33:43 PM

E6000 was developed as an electronic adhesive, were the E in E6000 stands for electronic. A few years back it was discovered by the crafting world.
E6000 has the advantage that it can be removed without leaving any kind of residue and won't interfere, dissolve the items that need to be glued. Aside its high dielectric strength it is mild in vapors and most of quite flexible.

Please be advised that most adhesive can dissolve the coating of the magnet wire, so I would not advise to any other kind of glue.

Best regards,

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on August 18, 2009, 12:41:26 PM

Oliver Archut wrote on Tue, 18 August 2009 12:33

Please be advised that most adhesive can dissolve the coating of the magnet wire, so I would not advise to any other kind of glue.

10-4 !

(I'm sure I needed some anyway)

Thx,
jonathan

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on August 18, 2009, 05:45:48 PM

Oliver Archut wrote on Tue, 18 August 2009 11:06

Hello Scotch,

just got back yesterday from a trip to Latch Lake, the lady in charge of the e-mails is sick so I have to take care of the e-mails. Will contact you today latest tomorrow.

Regarding the x-former hook up, I suggested E6000 for the 47/49/67 type of x-formers, you can get it at Hobby Lobby as well as many other places.

Best regards,

They have it at Michaels, here in Atlanta.

I have had great success lately in asking questions that have already been answered. In an effort to keep my record intact, may I enquire as to the tube used in the 49'er mod?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on August 18, 2009, 05:57:43 PM

Bill_Urick wrote on Tue, 18 August 2009 17:45

I have had great success lately in asking questions that have already been answered. In an effort to keep my record intact, may I enquire as to the tube used in the 49'er mod?

Oliver Archut wrote on Sun, 26 July 2009 22:29

The 49 like mod is based around the 6072/12AT7 tubes and yes a 12AX7 will fit, but I think not the best choice, there is a bunch of not too well known tube that have the same footprint, my favorite is the 6BS8.

I'm thinking a 6072 is the way to go.

I'll prolly try some different options and see what I like...

Cheers,
j

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on August 18, 2009, 06:49:44 PM

I have one with a 6BS8, and it is very nice.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cameron_k on August 18, 2009, 06:59:13 PM

The 47 schem lists an optional component (1000pF 140-PF2D102k for remote, left open cardioid only, better S/N). Anyone know what this one's about?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on August 18, 2009, 07:55:45 PM

0dbfs wrote on Tue, 18 August 2009 17:57

Bill_Urick wrote on Tue, 18 August 2009 17:45

I have had great success lately in asking questions that have already been answered. In an effort to keep my record intact, may I enquire as to the tube used in the 49'er mod?

Oliver Archut wrote on Sun, 26 July 2009 22:29

The 49 like mod is based around the 6072/12AT7 tubes and yes a 12AX7 will fit, but I think not the best choice, there is a bunch of not too well known tube that have the same footprint, my favorite is the 6BS8.

I'm thinking a 6072 is the way to go.

I'll prolly try some different options and see what I like...

Cheers,
j

Thanks, J!

My record remains untarnished!

Here's one I don't think has been asked:

The 47ish I'm modding has a 6HM6, which appears to be the same size as a 6072. What's the deal with the different cut on the PCB, cutting the switch plate and the different socket mounting? Is that just for an optional tube that happens to be taller?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: MI on August 18, 2009, 08:12:55 PM

Bill,

The Pentode type valves are taller and require the socket to be mounted higher up. Therefore you need to cut the board and drill 2 holes ro mount the socket.

But if you're using a valve that is the same height as a 6072 you should be ok mounting the socket where it was originally.

Mario

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on August 19, 2009, 12:05:15 AM

so will a 12a(?)7 tube work in both the 47 and 49 mod circuits? i have some rca black plate 12ay7's in there now that made a huge improvement, i'd like to try them.

i also have some GE NOS EF80's here. just dont wanna put a valve in that has the wrong pinouts.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Oliver Archut on August 19, 2009, 12:24:30 AM

There are several EF80 style tubes, the 6HM6 is in the size of the 6072a/12AT-U-X7 style (49mm), the EF860 is a long life version of the EF80 (60mm) but in 56 mm glass envelop. So for 6HM6 the tube socket does not have to be re-seated, for the EF860, EF184 and EF80 the socket has to be moved onto the PCB, for the EF80 a small slot has to be cut into the bottom piece.

The 12AX7 as well as 12AU7 will fit for the 49 and 12 mods, but won;t work to the best of their ability, the 12AT7 as well as 6BS8 (there is a long list somewhere a couple fo pages back) work quite good for 49 and 12, but the EC1000, the EC92 (seven pin socket) the EF762/5840, EC760/5718 will work great but need either a new socket or holding device. If a potentiometer is installed the tube can be biased individual.

Best regards,

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on August 19, 2009, 01:26:00 AM

Oliver Archut wrote on Tue, 18 August 2009 09:33

E6000 was developed as an electronic adhesive, were the E in E6000 stands for electronic. A few years back it was discovered by the crafting world.
E6000 has the advantage that it can be removed without leaving any kind of residue and won't interfere, dissolve the items that need to be glued. Aside its high dielectric strength it is mild in vapors and most of quite flexible.

Please be advised that most adhesive can dissolve the coating of the magnet wire, so I would not advise to any other kind of glue.

Best regards,

How about hot glue? My glue gun has become my best friend of late...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: MI on August 19, 2009, 09:26:53 AM

Oliver, Terry,

If the T49 schematic is not ready yet, is it possible to get a parts list only as I'd like to order all the parts at one go for my T47's and T49's.

Many Thanks.

Mario

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: against88 on August 19, 2009, 06:33:14 PM

i too am waiting on a parts list for the T49 pcb.

on this project i was going to get quality components but from what i gather people are using those mini-mox resistors...are those really $5 each?! hopefully i misread something or followed a bad link... if someone wants to break down our options in a price vs quality kind of way i'd appreciate it.

thanks
-will

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on August 19, 2009, 07:18:13 PM

this is by no means definitive. at all. so dont quote me. at all.

but on the compassspoint site, the diff between the 47 and 49 board appear to be a jumper for R8, no more no less. but thats just eyeballing it.

AGAINST 88-the $5 resistor has been covered a page or two back. yes, its legit. bite the bullet for the 110 dollar mic, is my attitude.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: MI on August 19, 2009, 09:52:04 PM

Yup the 5$ resistors are the same as used in other high end mics...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on August 20, 2009, 09:29:51 AM

Hey rjd2,

I was looking over and comparing the snaps of the T49 and T47 mods.

It looks like the T47 is also missing R3 (according to the photo's) and the T49 has an additional resistor on the trace side of the board.

The photo's may have been taken before the boards were complete and/or during 'bread-boarding' of the circuits. They may also be final's.

Looking forward to more details and ordering parts for the T49.

Cheers,
j

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on August 20, 2009, 10:17:51 AM

We will get that 49-like schematic as soon as possible.

T

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: against88 on August 20, 2009, 10:30:57 AM

crazydoc wrote on Tue, 11 August 2009 21:37

compasspnt wrote on Tue, 11 August 2009 21:42

Yes, 100 or 75 will work just fine. The one we used was $6, and the cheapest of the others was $12...your choice.

You can get one of each of these and wire them in series, if you want to spend only $1:

http://www.mouser.com/Search/ProductDetail.aspx?qs=sGAEpiMZZ MukHu%252bjC5l7YbQWD%2f3ivzwp5I9BOCsbToA%3d

http://www.mouser.com/Search/ProductDetail.aspx?qs=sGAEpiMZZ MtMTfExsNintc4dHz3vpK3gNntotHi2C6k%3d

I don't see any cheap way around the three 1G resistors. This one is a little cheaper ($4.20 vs $6.23)), but would probably be a little large for the board:

http://www.mouser.com/Search/ProductDetail.aspx?qs=sGAEpiMZZ MvhlCB8CTbT5Ms979VEDSny1p1omhmpZQo%3d

what about crazydoc's suggestion of substituting these resistors?

i don't really have experience of swapping similar value components (other than op amps) so i'm curious about all the different options that might be available to us.
-w

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: organica on August 20, 2009, 03:17:13 PM

Got a T47 and am afraid that my schedule won't allow time to do the work any time soon . Looks like more of a challenge to do correctly than I first thought , still would really love to do the work as it would sharpen some skills . Can anyone suggest a capable tech in the Mpls area ( or elsewhere ) to send to contact about this ? What's a fair price to do the work ? I can ship out but would like to stay local .........

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: crazydoc on August 20, 2009, 07:11:45 PM

Digikey has the 1W (1G ohm) version of the Ohmite Slim-Mite series for $4. It's dimensions are 0.58" by 0.34", with lead spacing of 0.40", which should fit fine on the board.

http://search.digikey.com/scripts/DkSearch/dksus.dll?Detail& amp;name=SM102F-1000M-ND

This would be a $6 savings per mic. Of course, this entails separate shipping costs, or ordering all parts from Digikey, which may not be much savings in the long run.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: drBill on August 20, 2009, 10:10:03 PM

I hope this isn''t against any rules, but if it is, feel free to delete Terry or other mods....

If any of you are wondering whether or not to mod your 1200's, and what kind of mods to do, and would like to hear a stock one (and modded one) up against some heavyweights like:

Vintage M49
Klaus modded U47
Modded 460 (sim.to the 1200)
Sputnik

you can check out a mic shootout I recently did. You'll (obviously) be interested in the TUBE mics. Here's the link : (It's on another network.... )

http://www.gearslutz.com/board/gear-shoot-outs-sound-file-co mparisons-audio-tests/415414-mic-mod-madness.html

Cheers and happy modding!

bp

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on August 20, 2009, 10:38:53 PM

so i disassembled a 1200 tonite, and sized up one of the 3 stuffed and soldered mod boards, with the x-former.

i think we are gonna need some more primers from any folks who have completed the mods; i have no idea how they fit the pcb, xformer, and tube inside the chassis, unless they bent 2 of the mounting tabs on the mic chassis?

also, the wiring of the switches and 9-pin connectors is hard to figure out from the site.

would anyone who might have successfully modded a mic be willing to do a little more photographing, and build notes? that would be awesome, thanks guys.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: littlehat on August 21, 2009, 01:42:47 AM

rjd2 wrote on Thu, 20 August 2009 22:38

would anyone who might have successfully modded a mic be willing to do a little more photographing, and build notes? that would be awesome, thanks guys.

+1

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: organica on August 21, 2009, 10:17:01 AM

littlehat wrote on Fri, 21 August 2009 01:42

rjd2 wrote on Thu, 20 August 2009 22:38

would anyone who might have successfully modded a mic be willing to do a little more photographing, and build notes? that would be awesome, thanks guys.

+1

Oliver told me that on a scale of 1 to 10 , that the skill level required here is , "definitely a 7.5 " . Anything beyond a 4.0 ( or so ?) will take quite some time to figure successfully knock out here . More notes/pix would be highly valuable for sure .

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: MI on August 21, 2009, 12:37:03 PM

I'm hoping to have all my parts soon to get to it, take pics etc...

Just need to finalize what is needed for the 49's prior to ordering.

However I don't see myself having time for at least a week, been really busy renovating my house. But the mod shouldn't take me more than a few hours provided I've got all the parts.

MI

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigbone on August 21, 2009, 03:00:07 PM

Mario I. wrote on Fri, 21 August 2009 12:37

I'm hoping to have all my parts soon to get to it, take pics etc...

Just need to finalize what is needed for the 49's prior to ordering.

However I don't see myself having time for at least a week, been really busy renovating my house. But the mod shouldn't take me more than a few hours provided I've got all the parts.

MI

Mario pense tu avoir finit avant noel ?????.........
je veut dire les reno de ta maison.......

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on August 21, 2009, 03:00:45 PM

a crowley wrote on Fri, 21 August 2009 15:17

littlehat wrote on Fri, 21 August 2009 01:42

rjd2 wrote on Thu, 20 August 2009 22:38

would anyone who might have successfully modded a mic be willing to do a little more photographing, and build notes? that would be awesome, thanks guys.

+1

Oliver told me that on a scale of 1 to 10 , that the skill level required here is , "definitely a 7.5 " . Anything beyond a 4.0 ( or so ?) will take quite some time to figure successfully knock out here . More notes/pix would be highly valuable for sure .

yea, dig that. i've built synth modules, restored amps/synths/etc, been soldering for years. with sufficient build notes and pics, im confident the job is doable. its just that the wiring pinouts, and how they fit the trannies in, aren't clear on the CP website(trust me, terry, im DEFINITELY not bitching, you guys have way better things to handle than this, and i utterly appreciate it all).

furthermore, i've got 3 mics im gonna mod. if i can complete 1 of them properly, i'll do the 2nd one w/ photos and post 'em to hopefully help folks do it.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: MI on August 21, 2009, 03:38:06 PM

NOT

I thought 2 weeks to put in a staircase was good...
I had to DIY a few custom pieces... what's new?

3 weeks now...(with a mini vacation thrown in there)

Actually interior should be done soon.

But I did get time for real studio stuff too! Installed new sliding doors in the iso room and built some tall gobos - 1 with glass one without. And also made 2x 6 channel XLR box / 25ft snake with aluminium box, Belden wire and Neutrik connector.

See you soon Jean!

MI

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on August 21, 2009, 10:02:02 PM

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rjd2 on August 21, 2009, 10:12:11 PM

hey guys, i just wanted to drop a line on the modding of a 1200.

like an idiot, i hadnt looked at the little can near the 7-pin connector. once removed(w/ old tranny), there is definitely enough room to fit the tranny, tube, and pcb. im uploading 2 photos of it.

so that's the good news.

the bad news is that this job is going to require some finesse, and might actually NOT be good for a beginner DIY person. for me, the mod is a combination of some steady hand work, and some agressive bending of the metal frame. i can now see why its rated 7.5 difficulty. this is not "drop in and solder". some of it is still very snug.

but all in all, its very doable space-wise.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on August 22, 2009, 12:39:05 PM

Here ya go, the 49-like schematic and parts list:

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on August 22, 2009, 12:50:38 PM

And for Twelvists, this:

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: crazydoc on August 22, 2009, 01:58:32 PM

Thanks for the new schematics and parts lists! Are the new transformers available yet?

Questions: Is the yellow indicated intersection (on all the schemos) a connection or a crossing over? (I'm assuming it is a connection as drawn.)

C4 is a 100uF 160V electrolytic (not 1uF), per the part# - correct? And I don't see it on the PCB or the mic pics.

I assume the red 1000pF cap on the PCB pics between the high impedance standoffs is the optional one.

Thanks

NB: THE SCHEMATIC SHOWN HERE IS AN OLDER DRAFT VERSION, AND NOT THE FINAL ONE.

CHECK THE WEBSITE FOR THE CORRECT SCHEMO.

http://www.compasspointstudios.com/bulldog/page1/files/page1 -1008-full.html

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on August 22, 2009, 09:36:48 PM

OK, finally got a better looking, much easier to read website for the mod pix & schematics:

http://www.compasspointstudios.com/bulldog/bulldog-tnc_upgra des.html

(Thanks Mario and also Devin.)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on August 22, 2009, 09:49:02 PM

I would like to know about the hot glue idea, it seems like it could be a good way to mount the tranny but I don't know about it's dialectric properties.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: MI on August 23, 2009, 09:49:04 AM

Thanks for the update Terry.

MI

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on August 23, 2009, 10:31:29 AM

More mod pix and instructions added this morning:

http://www.compasspointstudios.com/bulldog/bulldog-tnc_upgra des.html

http://www.compasspointstudios.com/bulldog/page1/page1.html

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: MagnetoSound on August 24, 2009, 06:31:49 AM

crazydoc,

The yellow dot indicates a connection. (All lines at that point are connected.)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on August 26, 2009, 10:41:41 AM

Oliver

Please check your PM

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: drBill on August 27, 2009, 02:07:16 AM

drBill wrote on Thu, 20 August 2009 21:10

I hope this isn''t against any rules, but if it is, feel free to delete Terry or other mods....

If any of you are wondering whether or not to mod your 1200's, and what kind of mods to do, and would like to hear a stock one (and modded one) up against some heavyweights like:

Vintage M49
Klaus modded U47
Modded 460 (sim.to the 1200)
Sputnik

you can check out a mic shootout I recently did. You'll (obviously) be interested in the TUBE mics. Here's the link : (It's on another network.... )

http://www.gearslutz.com/board/gear-shoot-outs-sound-file-co mparisons-audio-tests/415414-mic-mod-madness.html

Cheers and happy modding!

bp

For those interested in hearing the modded 460 compared to the 1200 and other mics, the results are in. 1200 fared very well....

http://www.gearslutz.com/board/gear-shoot-outs-sound-file-co mparisons-audio-tests/415414-mic-mod-madness-8.html

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on August 28, 2009, 11:56:21 PM

I spoke to Chance tonight, and he is very concerned that he has recently had no fewer than SIX shipments that have just been returned as "unclaimed," and they are all from Europe or the UK.

Something strange has been happening in the "liason" between the USPS and their counterparts in the other countries.

If this rings a bell with anyone, please contact Chance.

And of course, the USPS has charged Chance the cost of the return shipping!

More news coming on the Repair Station for the preamps in a couple of days.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: mushy on August 29, 2009, 06:03:08 AM

Any downside to mounting the transformer to the back of the board? There it would have plenty of space as would the tube.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on August 29, 2009, 08:48:17 AM

mushy wrote on Sat, 29 August 2009 06:03

Any downside to mounting the transformer to the back of the board? There it would have plenty of space as would the tube.

Mushy, probably best to ask that in the new "Mod" thread

http://recforums.prosoundweb.com/index.php/t/28946/6490/

Thanks.

Also please post your full name in your profile (unless it's in your "sig"...I never look at those silly things).

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: frankrizzo on August 29, 2009, 07:07:20 PM

good deal!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on August 30, 2009, 06:25:48 PM

compasspnt wrote on Fri, 28 August 2009 23:56

More news coming on the Repair Station for the preamps in a couple of days.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigbone on August 30, 2009, 06:36:44 PM

Terry

If there is some '' left over '' 1200 mic or if somebody want to sell me a pair
PM please.

Jean N

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on September 01, 2009, 09:55:25 PM

Jean, we will check and see if there are any more for now.

Big UPGRADE MOD news...

Now Tab-Funkenwerk Bulldog transformers are available for all of the ribbon mics!

http://www.compasspointstudios.com/bulldog/ribbon_xfrmr.html

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Rader Ranch on September 01, 2009, 10:33:49 PM

heh, the page says"BULLDOG upgrade transformers for ribbon microphones from AMI-TAB-Fukenwerk"

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Oliver Archut on September 01, 2009, 10:39:18 PM

Terry probably nearly ODed on Chinese food while writing it...
Big smile!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on September 01, 2009, 10:51:52 PM

OK fine, everyone make fun of a guy who has worked literally 20 hours a day every day for the past 3 weeks.

Sheesh...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cameron_k on September 01, 2009, 11:18:50 PM

Sheesh. One half of the American comedy duo, Sheesh and Shong.

Will the transformer work in the ACM4 "Norelco shaver" ribbon mic?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on September 02, 2009, 12:02:47 AM

cameron_k wrote on Tue, 01 September 2009 23:18

Sheesh. One half of the American comedy duo, Sheesh and Shong.

Will the transformer work in the ACM4 "Norelco shaver" ribbon mic?

Hmmm...

That's the one with the dual ribbons...

Oliver may have to answer that one, not sure if the xfrmr is the same in it.

I hope so, because I have two of those.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Oliver Archut on September 02, 2009, 12:29:24 AM

Sorry, don't know about the inside or how to install the x-former. I know the mic, but never took a peek inside.
Both x-formers work for nearly every ribbon element I tried and the ACM-4 specs on Chance's web-page indicate that it uses the same x-former as the other ribbons.

Best regards,

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigbone on September 02, 2009, 12:43:34 AM

compasspnt wrote on Tue, 01 September 2009 21:55

Jean, we will check and see if there are any more for now.

Big UPGRADE MOD news...

Now Tab-Funkenwerk Bulldog transformers are available for all of the ribbon mics!

http://www.compasspointstudios.com/bulldog/ribbon_xfrmr.html

TerryThank's i do appreciate it.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on September 02, 2009, 06:48:45 AM

Oliver Archut wrote on Wed, 02 September 2009 00:29

Sorry, don't know about the inside or how to install the x-former. I know the mic, but never took a peek inside.
Both x-formers work for nearly every ribbon element I tried and the ACM-4 specs on Chance's web-page indicate that it uses the same x-former as the other ribbons.

Best regards,

I had the same question.
So it should be fine if you can get it to fit.
Right?

Yeah!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on September 02, 2009, 12:49:24 PM

compasspnt wrote on Tue, 01 September 2009 21:55

Big UPGRADE MOD news...

Now Tab-Funkenwerk Bulldog transformers are available for all of the ribbon mics!

http://www.compasspointstudios.com/bulldog/ribbon_xfrmr.html

Cool!

Just wondering whether the 900 (tube ribbon mic) will work well with these. The ACM-900 has two transformers. One to isolate the ribbon element and step-up to the tube grid, and the second transformer is apparently driven by the tube circuit. I am not sure of the original circuit configuration at this point but imagine that it could be optimized with transformers matched to a particular amp configuration.

I wouldn't think that these transformers are intended for this application but wanted to check.

Thoughts?

Cheers,
jonathan

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on September 02, 2009, 12:55:49 PM

Oliver will know for sure, but i doubt the 900 would work with this mod xfrmr alone.

We are working (as time permits) on a whole upgrade for the 900.

Won't be ready for a while though.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Oliver Archut on September 02, 2009, 01:50:16 PM

Have not seem the 900 yet, but as I would guess they drive the cathode and ground the grid in order to get a decent noise level. So if that is how it is done either of the ribbon x-former will work in that application and for the output the standard T14-1200 will work just fine.

Best regards,

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on September 12, 2009, 09:38:58 PM

Hey all
Thanks to everyone for all the uplifting wishes. It made a big boost in my spirit. Someone said "When your memories are more exciting than your dreams, It sometimes leads to depression. Six months ago I lost a client I've had for twenty years. This client was the one that paid my bills. I guess I was in a lazy comfort zone knowing my mortgage and bills were always covered. As I progress out of this condition I've been going through, I'm starting to get inspired again. Doing some rewiring and building a vocal booth.
I am at a loss at what to do about all these overseas packages coming back to me after almost a year. I mentioned in the beginning "I don't like USPS. For EACH order that was not received, I had to call USPS, go through many menus, get put on eternal hold between each until I get the right person, explain the problem (package not received) open an investigation that takes thirty to forty five days, call them back, (go through all the menus and wait. Then they tell me "I now have to start an international investigation which takes a minimum of ninety days. After doing all this, they can't find any of these packages, BUT, they are now showing up on my door step as "unclaimed"! I made a trip to the post office to try to get some answers, and they said that USPS is only responsible to get the packages to that country and THAT country's service ships to everyone. Now I am at a loss! You guys paid a lot of $ for the gear and a lot more for the shipping, and your gear is back where it was almost a year ago.

I am trying to contact this "Parcel Farce" and see what can be done. Some of the reasons I preferred Fed Ex was, payment is deducted from my account when it is picked up. Also Fed Ex is accountable from shipper to receiver.
I hope to get some pres sent out to Oliver next week.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Paul G on September 12, 2009, 09:51:53 PM

Good to see you're getting back on your feet, Chance.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on September 13, 2009, 06:15:55 PM

Sorry to hear about the shipping returns, but extatic to know that you are starting to feel better Chance!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: laiben on September 14, 2009, 11:25:35 AM

Good to see your posting Chance. Hope I can get your email respond about my missing order soon. It has been outstanding for months...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Slickshoe62 on September 23, 2009, 06:08:32 PM

laiben wrote on Mon, 14 September 2009 10:25

Good to see your posting Chance. Hope I can get your email respond about my missing order soon. It has been outstanding for months...

same here Chance, could you also check on my missing order: 2 73s and a acm1200 to hawaii

thanks
Chris

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on September 24, 2009, 02:48:34 PM

compasspnt wrote on Thu, 30 July 2009 10:44

Further news for the minority that had problems with their recent GB equipment.

TNC are almost finished setting up a repair station where they will be looking to take care of any manufacturing problems.

News will be posted soon about how and where to send any items that need to be addressed.

Any news on the repair station for the preamps?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on September 24, 2009, 03:26:31 PM

Oliver just received an 81. I talked to him on the phone and he seems confident on a solution. He needs the schems. I am on a wi-fi now. If anyone could send him the schems it would help.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: crazydoc on September 24, 2009, 07:34:20 PM

CHANCE wrote on Thu, 24 September 2009 20:26

If anyone could send him the schems it would help.

They're here: http://recordinghacks.com/tnc-audio-preamps/

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on September 25, 2009, 09:40:19 AM

CHANCE wrote on Thu, 24 September 2009 15:26

Oliver just received an 81. I talked to him on the phone and he seems confident on a solution. He needs the schems. I am on a wi-fi now. If anyone could send him the schems it would help.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on September 26, 2009, 02:57:17 PM

CHANCE wrote on Thu, 24 September 2009 12:26

Oliver just received an 81. I talked to him on the phone and he seems confident on a solution. He needs the schems. I am on a wi-fi now. If anyone could send him the schems it would help.

Awesome!

Is there any chance that Oliver might be open to making (paid) upgrades (like i/o xformers, etc.) for those who might want it?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: redddog on September 30, 2009, 10:32:54 PM

Great to hear Oliver is on the case. And even better to hear that you're feeling better, Chance! Sounds like you've been through the ringer, my friend.

I've had a astoundingly bad year myself. My 8 year old son and 43 year old brother diagnosed with Cancer, made about 20% of my '07 earnings and lost a cousin to cancer.

Hang in there, dude. sounds like you're on the right track.

Do you think that Oliver will be able to conjure up some fixes for the 84s and 73s, too?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Oliver Archut on October 01, 2009, 10:00:05 AM

Hello Guys,

I am currently evaluation the situation to fix up broken units in a set up where an intern doing the work.
Upgrade? As soon the repair situation is figured out I will take a look. But for right now AES prep as well as getting CS-1s out the door.

Best regards,

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: redddog on October 01, 2009, 11:19:46 AM

I, for one, would like to see the units function as designed before we went into the whole "upgrade" phase. It sounds like Oliver is on the right track.

Thanks man.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on October 02, 2009, 04:21:16 PM

I'll be happy just to have them work properly finally. But if Oliver comes up with an upgrade or two that can be done at the same time as the warranty repair, I'd definitely be interested

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Paul G on October 02, 2009, 06:45:45 PM

Some news from Steve Hogan on DIY here:

http://www.prodigy-pro.com/diy/index.php?PHPSESSID=qgck0hvd1 h5fn1rv5suj01gku2&topic=27791.msg437498#new

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 10, 2009, 03:14:48 PM

I just brought all the yet to be shipped, and left overs from the shipper. All of the yet to be shipped orders, have been invoiced a long time ago and have not been paid. I will manually find the E-dresses for each order and try to make contact. Pymt will have to be made via snail mail/check. Late next week maybe next weekend, I will post on my website the remaining inventory as well as names of those orders that have not paid for shipping. Without counting there are some ACMP-84's. For the overstock, I prefer to ship to USA only. Too many headaches shipping overseas with USPS. I might consider Fed Ex overseas because they are accountable from pick up to delivery. This week I will be taking inventory and getting the code from the shipper for the already packed orders that have not paid.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Paul G on October 10, 2009, 05:31:59 PM

CHANCE wrote on Sat, 10 October 2009 15:14

I just brought all the yet to be shipped, and left overs from the shipper. All of the yet to be shipped orders, have been invoiced a long time ago and have not been paid. I will manually find the E-dresses for each order and try to make contact. Pymt will have to be made via snail mail/check. Late next week maybe next weekend, I will post on my website the remaining inventory as well as names of those orders that have not paid for shipping. Without counting there are some ACMP-84's. For the overstock, I prefer to ship to USA only. Too many headaches shipping overseas with USPS. I might consider Fed Ex overseas because they are accountable from pick up to delivery. This week I will be taking inventory and getting the code from the shipper for the already packed orders that have not paid.

Thanks Chance. Are there any mics left over? I sure would like to get my hands on a 1200 or two. Immediate payment!

Paul

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on October 10, 2009, 07:04:11 PM

Chance,

Hopefully the torture will end soon.

If there are any ACM3s left, I'd like to be first in line

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 10, 2009, 07:26:35 PM

No 3's or 1200's. I sent my 2 1200's to Oliver a while back.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Hallams on October 11, 2009, 06:26:10 AM

Any 310's i would like a few more.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Barkley McKay on October 11, 2009, 07:50:02 AM

Hallams wrote on Sun, 11 October 2009 11:26

Any 310's i would like a few more.

same here. I'd also be willing to pay fedex for delivery to uk.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on October 11, 2009, 08:25:42 AM

Guys, it will be a week or so, and Chance will let people know what might still be there.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Barkley McKay on October 11, 2009, 12:00:15 PM

Oh, completely understood! Apologies.

Just wanted to mention that as an across the ponder, Fedex a non issue fro me.

B

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: RSettee on October 11, 2009, 12:28:18 PM

Wow, it sounds like UPS really bungled those shipments, Chance.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on October 12, 2009, 01:12:59 AM

No probs Barks, sorry if I sounded rude...good point about using Fedex to UK.

UPS is rapidly climbing higher on all of our Dunce Lists.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 12, 2009, 08:00:47 PM

RSettee wrote on Sun, 11 October 2009 09:28

Wow, it sounds like UPS really bungled those shipments, Chance.

I don't know about UPS, it's U "S" PS that has all the problems. (United States Postal Service)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 21, 2009, 03:31:24 PM

Is there any web savvy person that might be able to answer a question?
Some time back a good person set up the users console and administration console that has since vanished. I had a lot of needed data in it. In the beginning, I printed a hard copy, but since then, many have moved and/or changed their E-dress, but have updated their data in the users console. Quite a few overseas orders have been returned to me. I tried using their E-dress (from the old hard copy), but have received only a couple replies (I don't have their updated info). Does anyone know how "Data" works on something like this? Is it still lying in state somewhere? Or is it history. Any way to retrieve this data? I tried exhaustively to locate the person who wrote the code and set this up, but to no avail.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Devin Knutson on October 21, 2009, 06:05:20 PM

Well, the DNS records seem to point at DirectNIC.com

I would start there, and see if they in fact hosted it, and if not, where their name servers were handing off too.

If you can find where it was hosted, there MAY still be a copy of the database there... or perhaps not.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 21, 2009, 06:23:28 PM

Devin Knutson wrote on Wed, 21 October 2009 15:05

Well, the DNS records seem to point at DirectNIC.com

I would start there, and see if they in fact hosted it, and if not, where their name servers were handing off too.

If you can find where it was hosted, there MAY still be a copy of the database there... or perhaps not.

Thats exactly one of the things I tried.
Here is their response:

"Dear customer,

For security reasons, we are not able to give out any login information to you, so we are not able to help you retrieve data hosted on our server. Plus, these two domains are not registered with us either.

Please let us know if we can be of further assistance. Thank you for using directNIC.
Sincerely,
Shu directNIC.com"

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on October 21, 2009, 06:25:45 PM

I also tried this:

http://www.whois.net/whois/n344rb.com

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: recordinghacks on October 22, 2009, 01:16:47 AM

Chance, I think the only person who will be able to provide the data from the old registration system is the guy who set it up.

Randy still owns the N344RB.com domain, but the website has disappeared. If he let his hosting contract expire, the hosting provider may well have erased his files, including all the customer and order data from the group buy system. Would Randy have backups at his home? Probably, but we don't know.

In any case, if you can't reach Randy, then you have to assume the data is gone. Nobody at the domain registrar or hosting provider would give you any data, even if they could find it.

If Randy can provide a dump of the data (in any format), several of us here can help to migrate it into Excel or whatever tool would be useful to you. The time commitment to Randy would be minimal; he'd just need to ship the files to you via email or CD-ROM, with or without documentation. That shouldn't take more than a couple minutes, assuming the data still lives somewhere.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on November 05, 2009, 07:32:46 PM

I spent hours on the phone with USPS today with regards to the lost/missing, and returned packages. One of the calls they at least had the courtesy to tell me that my wait time was 37 minutes. After the wait they told me I had to call another number. I have already filed all the investigation papers and they only had records of one investigation (with no results) Now I have to start all over! It's 90 days for the first investigation, then another 90 days for the over seas investigation! I am thinking about contacting consumer affairs as suggested by NAMM. I am totally overwhelmed with USPS. I received another package returned "unclaimed" after one year!! It seems strange that the packages are returned AFTER an investigation has been started. Just wanted to give an update

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on November 15, 2009, 10:09:19 AM

Oliver Archut wrote on Thu, 01 October 2009 07:00

Hello Guys,

I am currently evaluation the situation to fix up broken units in a set up where an intern doing the work.
Upgrade? As soon the repair situation is figured out I will take a look. But for right now AES prep as well as getting CS-1s out the door.

Best regards,

Hi Oliver,

What's the latest on the preamp fixes?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on November 16, 2009, 08:34:03 AM

chris carter wrote on Sun, 15 November 2009 10:09

Oliver Archut wrote on Thu, 01 October 2009 07:00

Hello Guys,

I am currently evaluation the situation to fix up broken units in a set up where an intern doing the work.
Upgrade? As soon the repair situation is figured out I will take a look. But for right now AES prep as well as getting CS-1s out the door.

Best regards,

Hi Oliver,

What's the latest on the preamp fixes?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on November 18, 2009, 11:19:07 AM

bump

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Oliver Archut on November 18, 2009, 11:47:54 AM

Hello All,

the first unit is evaluated and a fixing plan has been worked out. Still working on logistics, table set up, as well getting an intern here and trained.

Best regards,

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on November 18, 2009, 01:17:05 PM

Thank you Oliver that's good news.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: redddog on November 18, 2009, 08:14:40 PM

Oliver Archut wrote on Wed, 18 November 2009 10:47

Hello All,

the first unit is evaluated and a fixing plan has been worked out. Still working on logistics, table set up, as well getting an intern here and trained.

Best regards,

Great news, Oliver! Hey do you know if there will be a DIY option for those of us with multiple units that can't afford the huge dollars involved in shipping these babies?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on November 20, 2009, 07:45:58 PM

Excellent news! Can't wait to really put these babies to work

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: jim50hertz on November 23, 2009, 07:43:37 AM

Hi Oliver and Terry

Concerning the T14-C12 transformers and Bulldog mod boards.

I have the bare boards, the transformers and the mics and I'm dying to mod them, any news on the release of the circuit for these trafo types?

Many thanks guys

Jim

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 23, 2009, 09:05:03 AM

Hi Jim,

Almost ready, hopefully news in a week to 10 days.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: MI on November 23, 2009, 09:53:53 AM

Actually Terry the T-12 schematic is available no?

http://www.compasspointstudios.com/bulldog/page1/files/page1 -1010-full.html

It's the T-67 that's still to be completed...?

MI

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on November 23, 2009, 06:51:46 PM

Mario I. wrote on Tue, 24 November 2009 01:53

Actually Terry the T-12 schematic is available no?

http://www.compasspointstudios.com/bulldog/page1/files/page1 -1010-full.html

It's the T-67 that's still to be completed...?

MI

Yes, I built a pair of 12s.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: jim50hertz on November 28, 2009, 07:47:04 AM

Oh, don't know how I missed that!

Thanks guys,

Greg, how do the 12s sound compared to stock if you don't mind my asking?

Peace

Jim

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: crazydoc on November 28, 2009, 02:18:56 PM

Greg Dixon wrote on Mon, 23 November 2009 23:51

Yes, I built a pair of 12s.
I guess I'm confused or farther out of the loop than usual. The T14-C12 transformers are now available? They're still listed as "available soon" on the Bulldog site.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: redddog on December 03, 2009, 11:37:00 AM

Not to derail the thread too much, but I am selling a couple (maybe 4) 84s. Where is the best place to post that?

Sorry for the interruption.

Thanks.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigbone on December 03, 2009, 01:02:56 PM

redddog wrote on Thu, 03 December 2009 11:37

Not to derail the thread too much, but I am selling a couple (maybe 4) 84s. Where is the best place to post that?

Sorry for the interruption.

Thanks.

Why are you selling them..... i tough they were like neve for 100 $

JN

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: redddog on December 03, 2009, 01:37:58 PM

I have 8.

Looking to cover some Christmas expenses.

(I got the joke, BTW) lol.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on December 03, 2009, 01:53:57 PM

Anyone interested in those 84's please PM reddog

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigbone on December 03, 2009, 03:15:21 PM

redddog wrote on Thu, 03 December 2009 13:37

I have 8.

Looking to cover some Christmas expenses.

(I got the joke, BTW) lol.

Joke it was, nothing more, nothing less.

All the best with your sell........ And your Christmas gift........

JN

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: littlehat on December 04, 2009, 08:23:50 PM

compasspnt wrote on Thu, 03 December 2009 13:53

Anyone interested in those 84's please PM reddog

SOLD!

To the loudmoth in the orange hoodie!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: cnixon on December 04, 2009, 10:59:06 PM

Do not post here often, but I have an 84 and a 73. They are not leaving!! I mainly use the 84 because of the additional EQ options, and I would have to pay 10 times the price to get the same results with comparable name brand equipment.

Also have the 1200 with the Oliver 47 mods and all I can say is....nice.

Charlie

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: redddog on December 05, 2009, 09:35:54 AM

Talk about sellers remorse.

I immediately regretted selling these after talking to Littlehat.

These things are really that good.

(Luckily, me and my 2 73s and 2 84s have each other to get through the depression)

I just have to keep telling my self I only need 2 pair.

crap.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on December 05, 2009, 11:26:25 AM

redddog wrote on Sat, 05 December 2009 09:35

Talk about sellers remorse.

I immediately regretted selling these after talking to Littlehat.

These things are really that good.

(Luckily, me and my 2 73s and 2 84s have each other to get through the depression)

I just have to keep telling my self I only need 2 pair.

crap.

Not attempting to taunt you here, but my original intention was to sell off some of the pre's recoup. Well, I can't part with them. I have 6 of each. 4 are in continual use nearly everyday. The others will make their way into racks in good time.

Of late the 73's have been preferred over the Chandler TG-2 I love for elec guitar...and other sources (snare/toms for instance). The 84's see drum duty on a regular basis, and the EQ in both are my primary outboard Eq's next to the API 550A in the 7600 and the Great River NV-1EQ. The 84's have also done very well on vocals.

I'll be taking 2 81's out on location to record a grand piano next week. Of course the EQ is unusable, but the pre's are insanely good IMO. When the Eq issue is fixed the 81's might become my fave.

They seem to get better sounding as they see more use.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: redddog on December 05, 2009, 11:42:52 PM

Dan-O wrote on Sat, 05 December 2009 10:26

redddog wrote on Sat, 05 December 2009 09:35

Talk about sellers remorse.

I immediately regretted selling these after talking to Littlehat.

These things are really that good.

(Luckily, me and my 2 73s and 2 84s have each other to get through the depression)

I just have to keep telling my self I only need 2 pair.

crap.

Not attempting to taunt you here, but my original intention was to sell off some of the pre's recoup. Well, I can't part with them. I have 6 of each. 4 are in continual use nearly everyday. The others will make their way into racks in good time.

Of late the 73's have been preferred over the Chandler TG-2 I love for elec guitar...and other sources (snare/toms for instance). The 84's see drum duty on a regular basis, and the EQ in both are my primary outboard Eq's next to the API 550A in the 7600 and the Great River NV-1EQ. The 84's have also done very well on vocals.

I'll be taking 2 81's out on location to record a grand piano next week. Of course the EQ is unusable, but the pre's are insanely good IMO. When the Eq issue is fixed the 81's might become my fave.

They seem to get better sounding as they see more use.

Thanks for not taunting. lol.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on December 06, 2009, 09:48:10 AM

redddog wrote on Sat, 05 December 2009 23:42

Dan-O wrote on Sat, 05 December 2009 10:26

redddog wrote on Sat, 05 December 2009 09:35

Talk about sellers remorse.

I immediately regretted selling these after talking to Littlehat.

These things are really that good.

(Luckily, me and my 2 73s and 2 84s have each other to get through the depression)

I just have to keep telling my self I only need 2 pair.

crap.

Not attempting to taunt you here, but my original intention was to sell off some of the pre's recoup. Well, I can't part with them. I have 6 of each. 4 are in continual use nearly everyday. The others will make their way into racks in good time.

Of late the 73's have been preferred over the Chandler TG-2 I love for elec guitar...and other sources (snare/toms for instance). The 84's see drum duty on a regular basis, and the EQ in both are my primary outboard Eq's next to the API 550A in the 7600 and the Great River NV-1EQ. The 84's have also done very well on vocals.

I'll be taking 2 81's out on location to record a grand piano next week. Of course the EQ is unusable, but the pre's are insanely good IMO. When the Eq issue is fixed the 81's might become my fave.

They seem to get better sounding as they see more use.

Thanks for not taunting. lol.

LOL. So sorry. My apologies. I reread the post after and really felt rather bad. It wasn't my intention at all.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: redddog on December 08, 2009, 06:19:01 PM

No problem Dan-o.

Well I sent them off to Jamal and my rack looks terrible. It is seriously pissed at me.

I think after the new year I'll be looking to re aquire another pair of 84s if I can somehow. I think I cut a little too close to the bone selling 4 of 'em.

Oh well.

If you ever start questioning how good these are, sell a few.

Anyway, Have fun with them Jamal! And remember me when I need some mastering!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on December 08, 2009, 07:29:41 PM

Still lovin my 73's.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigtom on December 08, 2009, 08:12:42 PM

I've got a couple of 81's I need to sell. I know this not the best place to post this and if it has to be moved so be it. I just need to pay some bills and can't wait any longer.
PM me.

Big Tom Perkins
Fombell, Pa.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on December 08, 2009, 10:00:56 PM

Again, any offers or prices, please keep on PM's or private emails.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigtom on December 08, 2009, 10:04:40 PM

compasspnt wrote on Tue, 08 December 2009 21:00

Again, any offers or prices, please keep on PM's or private emails.

Thanks Terry, Will do

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on December 10, 2009, 10:50:13 PM

bigtom wrote on Tue, 08 December 2009 20:12

I've got a couple of 81's I need to sell. I know this not the best place to post this and if it has to be moved so be it. I just need to pay some bills and can't wait any longer.
PM me.

Big Tom Perkins
Fombell, Pa.

He shoots, he scores.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: littlehat on December 11, 2009, 06:01:59 AM

Bill_Urick wrote on Thu, 10 December 2009 22:50

bigtom wrote on Tue, 08 December 2009 20:12

I've got a couple of 81's I need to sell.
He shoots, he scores.

HA!

Bill you want to trade one of my new 81s for the 47 mod?

(kidding)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Thompson on December 16, 2009, 02:54:03 PM

Pardon my ignorance, I haven't been following this thread for a while.

What's the status on folks who recieved defective gear? Has that been addressed yet?
I have a ribbon mic that arrived with a saggin/scraping ribbon and a misthreaded stand mount, and then there's the issue with the ACMP-81 EQ hum.

Have other folks gotten replacement gear yet? Am I just not a squeaky wheel?

-Greg

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on December 16, 2009, 07:41:33 PM

The short version is that Oliver has found a fix for the 81s and is training someone on how to do the fix. Then everybody will send him their defective 81s.

What we don't know yet:

1) when the "big fix" will actually happen

2) Exactly what is being fixed. I believe they all have hiss, hum, nasty EQ hum, a gain pop that will eventually fry some interals and inverted phase at the output (I think that's everything, but I'm not a techie, someone else feel free to chime in). I'm assuming that the other random problems will also be fixed (one of mine has a faulty gain position, etc.)

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on December 17, 2009, 02:00:00 AM

Sending them might be a bit much for some of us out of the country etc. Perhaps a kit with instructions could be made available?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on December 17, 2009, 11:41:27 AM

chris carter wrote on Wed, 16 December 2009 19:41

The short version is that Oliver has found a fix for the 81s and is training someone on how to do the fix. Then everybody will send him their defective 81s.

What we don't know yet:

1) when the "big fix" will actually happen

2) Exactly what is being fixed. I believe they all have hiss, hum, nasty EQ hum, a gain pop that will eventually fry some interals and inverted phase at the output (I think that's everything, but I'm not a techie, someone else feel free to chime in). I'm assuming that the other random problems will also be fixed (one of mine has a faulty gain position, etc.)

Where did you hear this? I haven't heard that the gain pop would cause damage to the unit down the line.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: redddog on December 17, 2009, 11:57:22 AM

Les Ismore wrote on Thu, 17 December 2009 01:00

Sending them might be a bit much for some of us out of the country etc. Perhaps a kit with instructions could be made available?

That's what I'm hoping for.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: crazydoc on December 17, 2009, 12:21:10 PM

Dan-O wrote on Thu, 17 December 2009 16:41

Where did you hear this? I haven't heard that the gain pop would cause damage to the unit down the line.

The gain "pop" is a low frequency oscillation caused by the switch connecting the output of the 1st stage of the preamp to its input as the switch rotates through this position. This occurs in both the mic and line position, but is only passed through to the output stage in the mic mode, in which case it has already been known to fry the output transistor's emitter resistor, and could certainly potentially damage a power amp/speakers connected to the pre. Whether other components could be damaged remains to be seen.

If interested, you can read about it (sporadically) starting here:

http://www.prodigy-pro.com/diy/index.php?topic=27791.440

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: mattrussell on December 17, 2009, 02:39:10 PM

wondering about the buzz from the EQ on the 73's. is there a user fix for that problem coming? my EQ's are unusable.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Thompson on December 17, 2009, 03:17:21 PM

Okay, so what about folks who got bum ribbon mics?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: redddog on December 22, 2009, 10:25:30 AM

I, like so many others I'm sure, are excited to hear that Oliver and TNC have sussed out a fix and are getting the operation up and running.

While it is totally cool that you take your time and that you have many other pressing projects, I wondered if you may be able to give us just a very quick overview of what the fixes address.
Are they different for the different models?

Again, just a couple of sentences would be great. Just a very quick idea of what we can expect.

Thanks so much guys.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Oliver Archut on December 22, 2009, 12:11:39 PM

For right now I collected the info about what is wrong with the mic pre units. The goal is to get the none working units up and running, before moving to modding them.
Right now there are a couple of ways to upgrade the pres, but none of them is a real DIY project, because a bunch of measuring tools are needed.
The time frame is quite hard to layout, so much stuff going on with all the projects and still the hard part to find workers her in the middle of nowhere.

Best regards,

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: PoorGlory on December 22, 2009, 01:09:15 PM

Not a very a helpful post here, but just wanted to add that my 84 that previously did not buzz, now does buzz with the EQ in. Has it been confirmed that all of the units are reverse polarity at the output?

Also, my ACM-200 phantom powered double ribbon is toast. Sounded amazing for a while, now its just noise and crackling. Ribbons do not appear damaged or sagging.

And having spent some time with the ACM-100 mics, I can say easily that they are my current favorite for stereo room and stereo acoustic guitar micing. Unfortunately, the threaded piece inside that holds the basket onto the body has broken on one of them, so now I'm probably just going to JB Weld them together. Not ideal, but I'm guessing I'd never get that taken care of any other way.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on December 22, 2009, 04:38:31 PM

usually you have to pay extra to cop a good buzz....

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rodabod on December 24, 2009, 04:10:00 PM

Either fit Mumetal shields on the inductors, or replace them with better models like those from Carnhill.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on December 28, 2009, 11:16:06 AM

Greg Thompson wrote on Thu, 17 December 2009 12:17

Okay, so what about folks who got bum ribbon mics?

I thought I sent E-mails requesting addresses to everyone that needed replacement ribbons. Sent me an E-mail with your address, and I'll get them out to you

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: recordinghacks on January 05, 2010, 12:45:02 AM

In hopes that this will be useful to some, I've posted a tutorial (with photos) about swapping transformers in TnC-style passive ribbon mics.

http://recordinghacks.com/2009/12/31/diy-ribbon-transformer- upgrade/

Feedback welcome (preferably on my site, as I don't check this thread much any more).

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: PoorGlory on January 06, 2010, 10:19:22 AM

Hey Chance, I have a bum ACM-200. Ribbons aren't blown, gotta be something with the guts. Any advice? Got any extra lying around?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on January 06, 2010, 10:42:33 AM

I love my 200s on bluesy guitar amps.
The 900/tube ribbons are also very useful and smooth.

I want more ribbon mics!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Paul G on January 06, 2010, 10:42:01 PM

C.Cash wrote on Wed, 06 January 2010 10:42

I love my 200s on bluesy guitar amps.
The 900/tube ribbons are also very useful and smooth.

I want more ribbon mics!

Cliff, did you do any mods to your 900?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: CHANCE on January 07, 2010, 09:52:19 PM

PoorGlory wrote on Wed, 06 January 2010 07:19

Hey Chance, I have a bum ACM-200. Ribbons aren't blown, gotta be something with the guts. Any advice? Got any extra lying around?

I'll take a look this weekend

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: slaveern on January 19, 2010, 07:25:09 PM

Hmm... I know it's still in the works but has there been a solution for the ACMP73 buzz -> not the EQ, just the gain stage, i.e. by switching it on and by-pass EQ.

slaveern...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: littlehat on January 19, 2010, 08:49:45 PM

73 buzz?
I have MANY, and NONE buzz.

Have you performed the Zwicky Twist?

Search Zmix's posts in this thread. Follow his instructions regarding transformer orientation.

Hope this helps.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on January 21, 2010, 07:10:23 PM

speaking of which... what is the status of the preamp warranty fix???

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Twlo on January 22, 2010, 05:17:06 PM

I have 2 ACMP81s and 2 ACMP84s that I need to sell for what I have into them(cost+shipping I paid)
Please PM if interested. I have a friend that may have some for sale as well. Thanks! Located in Seattle, WA.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on January 22, 2010, 05:52:21 PM

We are still investigating the best place/way to set up a fix station, so it works as well as possible for anyone interested.

There are a couple of options that we will choose between soon.

(I have four 84's and eight 73's, all work well enough that I won't even bother to do mine.)

Will advise asap.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: redddog on January 22, 2010, 07:06:28 PM

So Terry,

Do you use the 84s and 73s a lot?

If so, what are your favorite uses for 'em and what do they beat out for the job?

I have 73s and 84s and I love them. But it would be nice to hear what the legendary Terry Manning uses them for.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on January 22, 2010, 07:22:44 PM

Well, right now we are doing a four month long session on a literally legendary hard rock band, someone everyone here certainly knows.

73's are on bass drum, a couple of snare mics, several el gtr mics. 84's are on lead voc and acoustic guitar/acoust bass (overdubs).

Everyone very happy.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: organica on January 22, 2010, 07:27:40 PM

compasspnt wrote on Fri, 22 January 2010 19:22

Well, right now we are doing a four month long session on a literally legendary hard rock band, someone everyone here certainly knows.

73's are on bass drum, a couple of snare mics, several el gtr mics. 84's are on lead voc and acoustic guitar/acoust bass (overdubs).

Everyone very happy.

Hey great ! If you/they keep and re-lease those tracks plz do tell which ones . I especially like the 73's .

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on January 22, 2010, 11:48:24 PM

compasspnt wrote on Fri, 22 January 2010 19:22

Well, right now we are doing a four month long session on a literally legendary hard rock band, someone everyone here certainly knows.

73's are on bass drum, a couple of snare mics, several el gtr mics. 84's are on lead voc and acoustic guitar/acoust bass (overdubs).

Everyone very happy.

the 73's are really quite good on gtr.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: redddog on January 24, 2010, 10:11:56 PM

compasspnt wrote on Fri, 22 January 2010 18:22

Well, right now we are doing a four month long session on a literally legendary hard rock band, someone everyone here certainly knows.

73's are on bass drum, a couple of snare mics, several el gtr mics. 84's are on lead voc and acoustic guitar/acoust bass (overdubs).

Everyone very happy.

That is wicked cool!

Can't wait to hear the details when the record comes out!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: mattrussell on January 25, 2010, 09:47:50 AM

littlehat wrote on Tue, 19 January 2010 20:49

73 buzz?
I have MANY, and NONE buzz.

Have you performed the Zwicky Twist?

Search Zmix's posts in this thread. Follow his instructions regarding transformer orientation.

Hope this helps.

can't find that page anywhere. can someone re-post it if they find it or have it bookmarked? somehow, i missed the original.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on January 25, 2010, 09:58:38 AM

mattrussell wrote on Mon, 25 January 2010 09:47

littlehat wrote on Tue, 19 January 2010 20:49

73 buzz?
I have MANY, and NONE buzz.

Have you performed the Zwicky Twist?

Search Zmix's posts in this thread. Follow his instructions regarding transformer orientation.

Hope this helps.

can't find that page anywhere. can someone re-post it if they find it or have it bookmarked? somehow, i missed the original.

Matt,

You just loosen the mains transformer bolt enough to twist the transformer whilst monitoring the output of the pre... Adjust for the least amount of buzz/hiss...

This tweak focuses the null of the mains-transformer towards the part of the circuit which picks up the noise. Then tighten the nut/bolt back down to prevent further movement.

Careful! There is mains voltage in the transformer and primary leads. Use the one hand-behind your back method and don't shock yourself.

Best,
jonathan

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Barkley McKay on January 25, 2010, 10:05:25 AM

Matt, make sure you wear rubber gloves!

It basically involves taking the top off a unit, loosening the nut/screw slightly that holds the toroid in place, enough so that you can turn it gently.

Power up the unit with the output cranked up, EQ engaged and the 340Hz filter engaged.
Probably best with the output plugged into the desk and a pair of headphones to monitor and the amp turned up.

Twist the toroid gently and position where the hum/noise is at its least. Retighten the nut and replace cover.

Also bear in mind that the top cover also reduces noise so you may have to listen beyond this, and take the cover off again.

I had this with 2 of my 6 units and I found a sweet spot eventually.

I also found one unit was fussy if positioned over another, but behaved if put underneath!

I'm also in the UK and for some reason, we don't suffer as much over here due to the mains frequency and voltage difference.

hope this helps.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Barkley McKay on January 25, 2010, 10:08:43 AM

Hey Jonathan/Odbfs...you beat me to it, but I got the rubber gloves in!

barks

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on January 25, 2010, 10:24:41 AM

I saw that...

Must live dangerous like rock-and-roll!

Best,
j

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: littlehat on January 25, 2010, 03:13:14 PM

http://recforums.prosoundweb.com/index.php/m/383622/12210/?s rch=rotate#msg_383622

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on February 22, 2010, 12:21:24 PM

It's been a month since there was any update on the ACMP81 preamp warranty fix. So I'd like to ask for another update.

I would also like to ask rather BLUNTLY: despite my respect of the individual parties involved, should I be concerned that there ultimately will NOT be a warranty fix? I mean, I've had these in my possesion for a year and 4 months, and we've known there is a serious problem with the 81s for a year and 4 months. So I'm kind of feeling like I'm getting strung along. Terry, Chance, Oliver, please feel free to shed some light on things that will give me more confidence. Preferably something more than "we're working on it". That's the response I get from record labels that owe me royalties that have no intention of paying LOL.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on February 22, 2010, 12:30:26 PM

Hi Chris,

Yes, there absolutely will be a fix for you, and we are still working on putting it together.

I sincerely hope that we will have something for you 81-ers in the not-too-distant-soon-come.

As for those royalties, please do not mention the word "Sony" in this thread, and thereby jinx things.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on March 03, 2010, 09:29:33 AM

Any up dates on the repairs process?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: redddog on March 03, 2010, 09:32:01 AM

We've been getting "soon" for months.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on March 03, 2010, 09:38:18 AM

No, there is not an update yet.

If there were, it would have been immediately posted.

It is not easy at all to set this up for preamps obtained by the end users at BELOW THE COST WE GOT THEM FOR.

But we are working on it, and will eventually have a solution.

Thank you for standing by so patiently.

Meanwhile, I am using 22 of them here with no problems.

But no 81s.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: redddog on March 03, 2010, 09:49:13 AM

22!

Holy cow. Hey Terry, have you done anything to them or are they as you recieved them?

Are you doing 84s AND 73s? What have you found them to stand out the most at? (If you don't mind saying, that is. It's all too easy to forget that you're talking to a frickin legend on the internet sometimes).

Thanks again, sir.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on March 03, 2010, 11:09:33 AM

The 22 figure adds the 15 I have, and others that 3 friends here have.

They are all used daily just as received.

No mods, no fixes.

(Oh, except that I put a little green triangle shaped piece of tape as a pointer-marker @ the 9 o'clock position of the mic input volume pot, where the 2nd stage amp kicks in, so that I "warn myself" that the pop will come, and so I am careful not to have the monitors up loud. A simple "turn-down" of the output control whilst switching to the 2nd stage takes good care of this.)

I use them almost always now for drums & guitars. Last night I was recording classical flute and euphonium through them.

I like these little puppies.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Barkley McKay on March 03, 2010, 11:15:21 AM

Simple question if I may.

Is it a design trait with these (I have the 73 and 84, 6 in total) that the bass response "thins" ever so slightly when the eq switch is engaged, but no cut/boost applied?

I just use the preamp sections (love them!) but noticed this slight sonic change when I first got them.

thanks

barks

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on March 03, 2010, 12:38:25 PM

compasspnt wrote on Wed, 03 March 2010 09:38

No, there is not an update yet.

If there were, it would have been immediately posted.

It is not easy at all to set this up for preamps obtained by the end users at BELOW THE COST WE GOT THEM FOR.

But we are working on it, and will eventually have a solution.

Thank you for standing by so patiently.

Meanwhile, I am using 22 of them here with no problems.

But no 81s.

All of my 73's, and 84's are in working order (save 1 poorly drilled pace plate that won't stack in a rack) and used everyday. They're fabulous. No complaints.

I'm waiting on a repair for the 6 81's I have. I also have a couple ACM 583's needing attention. One DOA, one with a faulty pattern switch I believe.

Thanks for all the hard work.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: PookyNMR on March 03, 2010, 12:48:09 PM

I can't seem to find the info for where we get the ACM-1200 modification kits. Could someone point me to where I could get some of these mod kits?

Thanks.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on March 03, 2010, 01:21:11 PM

http://www.compasspointstudios.com/bulldog/bulldog-tnc_upgra des.html

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: PookyNMR on March 03, 2010, 08:33:46 PM

Berolzheimer wrote on Wed, 03 March 2010 11:21

http://www.compasspointstudios.com/bulldog/bulldog-tnc_upgra des.html

Thanks!!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Mike Dunn on March 07, 2010, 02:18:14 PM

Mike Dunn wrote on Tue, 30 December 2008 21:38

Mike Dunn wrote on Tue, 09 December 2008 09:09

I paid my shipping invoice last Thursday when I got my green "YES" and three boxes arrived first thing Monday morning. The small one contained two ACM2s, which sounded nice and smooth on my voice, perhaps a touch brighter on the "back" side, opposite of the TNC logo. The included rubber mic clips were however both broken.
The medium sized box contained four identical brief cases, two ACM310s and two ACM6802Ts. The ACM310s looked a bit nicer in their included velvet lined wooden boxes and after warming up sounded rich and present on my voice. The ACM6802Ts didn't seem to have the same presence, though dialing through the polar patterns from the bass boost in figure 8 to the presence boost in omni made me think they'd make a flexible room mic pair.
The largest box contained two ACMP84s and two ACMP81s, individually packaged. The ACMP84s both powered up fine and all the pre and eq controls worked as expected, including the thump on the gain control at 9 o'clock. With the gain set to 80 there is an audible buzz that can be accentuated with the EQ, but with a normal speaking voice the gain setting pushed it down into the inaudible range. The first ACMP81 powered up fine and the pre worked as expected, but when the EQ was engaged there was a loud pop, the audio became distorted, and a buzz equal in level to the input signal began. The dreaded transistor issue I assume. While the knob layout is a bit funky, I'm salivating to get the EQ issue resolved so I can use the expanded choices, it's much more a scalpel than the 84's EQ. The second ACMP81 would not power on at all. The fuse looked fine, but I went ahead and swapped it with the included spare to no avail. I'm guessing we'll address DOAs after everybody gets inital delivery, so that one will stay in it's box for now.

Inspired by the previous poster's success in repairing his DOA ACMP-73, I decided to take another look at my DOA ACMP-81 tonite. Sure enough, the wiring on the voltage selection switch, as well as that on the power regulation board, didn't match my working 81. A little re-soldering later and my DOA 81 powered up just fine. The EQ buzz on this one was much less noticeable than my original working unit, now I'm jazzed to track down those replacement transistors and get everything going 100%!
I tried a 57 on a Marshall through the pre and was impressed. I then tried the ACM-2 and was shocked that I could have thought the 57 sounded acceptable. Goddamn that's a nice tone. I tried some other mics in the same chain, 421, ACM-310, and finally hit upon the ACM-6802T in figure-8. A nice compliment to the ribbon tone, I was surprised to find the rear side of the mic (opposite the logo) was not only brighter but quite a bit hotter than the "front" when in figure-8. I tried swapping out the stock tubes for some older 12AX7s I had on hand, and went with a pair of Mullards for their darker mid tone. Pretty happy with the ACM-2/6802T through ACMP-84s for electric guitar! Now what the hell am I gonna use these SM57s for...

It's been over a year since I received my group buy pieces; (2) ACM2 ribbons, (2) ACM310 tube sdc, (2) ACM6802T tube ldc, (2) ACMP84 pre/eqs, and (2) ACMP81 pre/eqs. Business has picked up over the last couple months and these units have become my go to pieces for tracking. I just did a latin rock quartet with ACM2s on the electric guitars, ACM310s on overheads, ACM6802Ts as room mics, Beta 52A through ACMP84 on kick, SM81 through ACMP84 on snare, Redeye through ACMP81 for bass, and one of the guitar's ACM2s running through the last ACMP81. Pretty much the foundation of the mix was tracked through group buy pieces, and it's great sounding stuff. I'm looking forward to the ACMP81 fixes, so I can start using those eqs for kick and snare with the peak reading LEDS and move the ACMP84s over to bass/guitar duty with the VU meters and simpler EQ. I'll just have to add some extra pres before I ship them off so I won't miss them as much during tracking sessions.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: itsapleasure on March 07, 2010, 09:38:37 PM

I cut some nice drums today w/ a 1200 (w/ tab xformer) and a acm-3 in a M/S. kinda makes you feel dirty knowing what those things cost. the $250 stereo La4 knock-off a friend built me took it to the next level.... shoulda used the acmp73s and it woulda been ghetto to the max!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: hithere on March 09, 2010, 08:06:59 AM

Does anyone know where I can get the ACM3 or the 1200?

Haven't found any updated info on these.. Thanks!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on March 09, 2010, 09:00:27 AM

hithere wrote on Tue, 09 March 2010 08:06

Does anyone know where I can get the ACM3 or the 1200?

Haven't found any updated info on these.. Thanks!

Hi. Right now they are not available.

But we hope to set up something new at some point in the fairly near future.

Best regards.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: hithere on March 09, 2010, 04:44:17 PM

I hear the Apex 460 is the same as the 1200, do you know if bulldog will mod it? possibly looking for the 47 cap mod..

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Hallams on March 09, 2010, 05:21:01 PM

hithere wrote on Wed, 10 March 2010 08:44

I hear the Apex 460 is the same as the 1200, do you know if bulldog will mod it? possibly looking for the 47 cap mod..

hi hithere,(hi there or hit here?) ..... this has been covered earlier in the thread, so giving the search function a go will deliver some answers, but in a nutshell the mods available for the 1200 should also work with the apex 460,hearsay only as i have no direct experience with the mod.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on March 09, 2010, 06:40:28 PM

I have a 460 waiting for time to install the 47 mod.
Should be no problem, just allow for the absence of switches which should actually make for a less complicated job.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: frankrizzo on March 13, 2010, 04:28:37 PM

compasspnt wrote on Tue, 09 March 2010 08:00

hithere wrote on Tue, 09 March 2010 08:06

Does anyone know where I can get the ACM3 or the 1200?

Haven't found any updated info on these.. Thanks!

Hi. Right now they are not available.

But we hope to set up something new at some point in the fairly near future.

Best regards.

can we concentrate on the fixes first i hope. i mean why add more junk to the fire.its been over a year since my dead 73 was promised to be replaced. enough is enough.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on March 13, 2010, 06:05:58 PM

Duh.

Of course.

That's exactly why we have not yet done anything new, even if new things were "pre-fixed."

As mentioned earlier several times, some repair is almost ready to happen.

As also mentioned earlier, this has been hard since THERE WAS ABSOLUTELY NOT ONE PENNY OF PROFIT IN THIS.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigbone on March 13, 2010, 08:27:53 PM

compasspnt wrote on Sat, 13 March 2010 18:05

Duh.

Of course.

That's exactly why we have not yet done anything new, even if new things were "pre-fixed."

As mentioned earlier several times, some repair is almost ready to happen.

As also mentioned earlier, this has been hard since THERE WAS ABSOLUTELY NOT ONE PENNY OF PROFIT IN THIS.

It's nice to know that some peoples STILL do good deeds in life....,,,,,,

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: frankrizzo on March 14, 2010, 06:51:41 PM

compasspnt wrote on Sat, 13 March 2010 17:05

Duh.

As also mentioned earlier, this has been hard since THERE WAS ABSOLUTELY NOT ONE PENNY OF PROFIT IN THIS.

thats why i have waited over a year.trying to do the right thing and be patient. im kinda sick of those saying how theve purchased and been using these things. congrats to you!. that doesnnt make the majority of others feel better or fixes the problem. its time to find out whats going on. did the manufacture have anything to say???? im mean whatsss upPP!!!!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Paul G on March 15, 2010, 12:13:13 PM

compasspnt wrote on Sat, 13 March 2010 18:05

this has been hard since THERE WAS ABSOLUTELY NOT ONE PENNY OF PROFIT IN THIS.

That's why I'm doing my own repairs, (or at least I will if/when Steve H. gets the kits ready). LOL

Paul

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Paul G on March 20, 2010, 05:36:53 PM

FYI, Steve Hogan is posting about the repairs/mods to the ACMP pres over @ DIY

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on March 20, 2010, 06:14:13 PM

Paul G wrote on Sat, 20 March 2010 14:36

FYI, Steve Hogan is posting about the repairs/mods to the ACMP pres over @ DIY

Hopefully Oliver is reading the R&D in that thread so that we can get the show on the road already...

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: C.Cash on March 21, 2010, 08:05:07 AM

TnC ACM 310 on acoustic guitar last night (Gibson 160e) was stunning!
This mic always impresses, the client was blown away.
I should have got more...........

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on March 21, 2010, 11:05:05 PM

A few days ago I used a 310 to record small rocks & metal debris, & then heavily processed the recordings, for a very big movie coming out this summer. Got just the right texture & lots of detail, the result is nice & "hyper-real".

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on March 22, 2010, 12:11:16 AM

Berolzheimer wrote on Sun, 21 March 2010 23:05

A few days ago I used a 310 to record small rocks & metal debris, & then heavily processed the recordings, for a very big movie coming out this summer. Got just the right texture & lots of detail, the result is nice & "hyper-real".

So it's an excellent heavy metal microphone.

Good to know.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on March 22, 2010, 09:43:08 AM

Love the acm310. A couple XLR's wired wrong but other than that it's just a fine mic.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Berolzheimer on April 02, 2010, 08:44:20 PM

compasspnt wrote on Sun, 21 March 2010 21:11

Berolzheimer wrote on Sun, 21 March 2010 23:05

A few days ago I used a 310 to record small rocks & metal debris, & then heavily processed the recordings, for a very big movie coming out this summer. Got just the right texture & lots of detail, the result is nice & "hyper-real".

So it's an excellent heavy metal microphone.

Good to know.

Good for rock AND metal.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: BobbyBizzle on April 02, 2010, 09:08:13 PM

Love it

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Nick Sevilla on April 04, 2010, 03:32:57 PM

Berolzheimer wrote on Fri, 02 April 2010 17:44

Good for rock AND metal.

And Accordion. The player literally FREAKED OUT when he heard his tenor accordion through the ACM310. It was very funny to watch that reaction.

Cheers

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Paul G on April 04, 2010, 05:15:45 PM

Well, accordion players are a strange breed. I worked with a drummer years ago who played the accordion while riding a unicycle.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on April 05, 2010, 06:44:38 PM

I've just rebuilt my racks and now have a custom section for the ACMP73/84s.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on April 05, 2010, 08:14:38 PM

Greg Dixon wrote on Mon, 05 April 2010 18:44

I've just rebuilt my racks and now have a custom section for the ACMP73/84s.

Is that a Behringer bay on top? I have one sitting here that I've been affriad to touch for years. Do you have any issues with it?

What are the others? Can't make it out.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on April 05, 2010, 08:35:51 PM

Oops caught out, yes it is a B%#$inger. Don't tell anyone. I bought it when I needed a patchbay in a hurry and that was all that was available. It's for the headphone sends, so doesn't get used for much actual patching.

So far (less than 2 years), it's been fine. No hint of trouble.

The other ones are Neutrik.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Nick Sevilla on April 10, 2010, 12:59:57 PM

Hi,

I recently got back my two ACM1200 bodies from a paint shop :

http://www.powdercoater.com/

Steve Andrews over there did a wonderful job on my two ACM1200 microphone bodies.

They happen to do all the production runs for the Blue series of mics (Dragonfly, Mouse, etc.) and so know how to powder coat and paint any kind of mic body, pretty much.

As soon as I'm done modifying them, I'll post some nice pictures of the mics.

Cheers

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on April 11, 2010, 08:02:46 PM

A visiting engineer brought in 4 Coles 4038s last week. I had the opportunity to compare one of them to an ACM1.

After getting the levels as closely matched as I could, I did a very quick recording of my voice, a crash cymbal and an acoustic guitar. Very little thought as to placement, just had the mics as close together as possible. I then further matched the average levels using the Audio Suite Gain plug-in.

Latter in the day I listened back to them with the other engineer. I knew the ACM ribbon mics sounded great, but was still surprised by the results. He picked the ACM as being the Coles on my voice and even after knowing which was which, still preferred it.

The ACM1 has a bit more proximity effect, but they are remarkably similar. Very impressed.

I also compared his Wagner U47 to a Bulldog 47. No contest there. The Wagner was a clear winner.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on April 13, 2010, 06:34:57 AM

Wow, those ACMP-81s with the faulty eq have really shot up in value. http://cgi.ebay.com.au/New-TNC-PreAmplifier-EQ-Neve-ACMP-81- Awesome-1081_W0QQitemZ360248264144QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_Defa ultDomain_0?hash=item53e07845d0

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on April 13, 2010, 07:16:38 AM

compasspnt wrote on Sat, 13 March 2010 15:05

Duh.

Of course.

That's exactly why we have not yet done anything new, even if new things were "pre-fixed."

As mentioned earlier several times, some repair is almost ready to happen.

As also mentioned earlier, this has been hard since THERE WAS ABSOLUTELY NOT ONE PENNY OF PROFIT IN THIS.

Terry,

You posted this about a month ago. Has any progress been made?

Thanks!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: bigbone on April 13, 2010, 08:39:05 AM

Greg Dixon wrote on Tue, 13 April 2010 06:34

Wow, those ACMP-81s with the faulty eq have really shot up in value. http://cgi.ebay.com.au/New-TNC-PreAmplifier-EQ-Neve-ACMP-81- Awesome-1081_W0QQitemZ360248264144QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_Defa ultDomain_0?hash=item53e07845d0

Terry i hope you got your share with that sale.... he even quote you are one of the builder
''Well this unit was designed and built by my USA Engineer friends Terry and Chance''

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on April 13, 2010, 04:05:10 PM

Greg Dixon wrote on Tue, 13 April 2010 06:34

Wow, those ACMP-81s with the faulty eq have really shot up in value. http://cgi.ebay.com.au/New-TNC-PreAmplifier-EQ-Neve-ACMP-81- Awesome-1081_W0QQitemZ360248264144QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_Defa ultDomain_0?hash=item53e07845d0

Dude's dreaming. This is his second listing of this piece afaik with no bites.

These units will probably appreciate in value, but not this much this fast.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on April 19, 2010, 09:49:47 PM

chris carter wrote on Tue, 13 April 2010 07:16

compasspnt wrote on Sat, 13 March 2010 15:05

Duh.

Of course.

That's exactly why we have not yet done anything new, even if new things were "pre-fixed."

As mentioned earlier several times, some repair is almost ready to happen.

As also mentioned earlier, this has been hard since THERE WAS ABSOLUTELY NOT ONE PENNY OF PROFIT IN THIS.

Terry,

You posted this about a month ago. Has any progress been made?

Thanks!

Yes indeed progress had been made.

I am in the midst of contacting one of each model mic pre owner that has a problem unit, and we are ready for those to be shipped to the repair location. If all goes well with this "dry run," we will announce details for everyone.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on April 20, 2010, 07:27:44 AM

Thanks Terry. This is awesome news.

Based on what I've read on the DIY forum, might I recommend getting TWO of each model for the dry run? As I understand it, there are slight variences from unit to unit and passing a pair through the dry run might save some headaches for you when the Big Fix goes into full effect. "Ounce of Prevention..." kind of thing this time around LOL.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: frankrizzo on April 20, 2010, 05:41:05 PM

yes take 2 of my 73-s ill be nice how about just one

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Greg Dixon on April 20, 2010, 06:00:08 PM

I didn't know anybody had serious issues with the 73s. I thought it was just the 81s.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on April 20, 2010, 07:27:50 PM

Well the 73's at the least have the "pop" at halfway on the mic level pot, some call it a "problem," when really it is just the second stage of the preamp kicking in. It would be more elegant to have had a mute there (like Neve did), but it is not a "defect." We should be able to mute that.

There are some 73's (and 84's) with xfrmr hum issues when low mid EQ is boosted, often fixed by rotation or extra shield. This is often not a problem when running @ 240V.

Anyway, yes the 81's have the only "for-real-defect," because of a wrong part installed. That can be rectified.

The rest are issues that can and will be dealt with.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on April 21, 2010, 09:21:09 AM

Terry I'm fairly certain I have one of each that needs attention. I'll double check today if you're still looking.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: crazydoc on April 21, 2010, 10:38:34 AM

compasspnt wrote on Wed, 21 April 2010 00:27

Well the 73's at the least have the "pop" at halfway on the mic level pot, some call it a "problem," when really it is just the second stage of the preamp kicking in. It would be more elegant to have had a mute there (like Neve did), but it is not a "defect." We should be able to mute that.

That "pop', which is in reality a low frequency positive feedback oscillation (0.5v, 2Hz at the first stage input), has already fried at least one person's 3055 output transistor's emitter resistor, and has the potential to damage other internal components and downstream equipment. It is a "defect" and a "problem", and should be corrected, IMNSHO.

Anyway, thanks for going above and beyond expectations to try to fix these problems - it's appreciated.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on April 21, 2010, 11:28:05 AM

Terry here's what I have that needs attention if you're still looking:

2 x 84's - One has no 48v and the other no 70Hz and an iffy EQ in general.

1 x 73's - DOA

6 x 81's

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on April 21, 2010, 01:24:22 PM

I've already got Terry covered on the 81s. But he needs 84s and 73s (unless he's gotten them from someone already via PM).

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on April 21, 2010, 03:22:24 PM

Looks like we have our Test Subjects.

News to come soon.

Thnx.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: mattrussell on April 21, 2010, 03:58:54 PM

my 73's hum when i engage the EQ. i know there is a 'fix' for this which involves rotating the trnsfmr. i'd rather just have ones that work despite how 'easy' it is to fix them. i'd also like to know that before i go monkeying around in there that i'm doing something that is only going to help, not something that will make the problem worse or physically hurt me.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: littlehat on April 21, 2010, 05:47:23 PM

mattrussell wrote on Wed, 21 April 2010 15:58

i'd rather just have ones that work despite how 'easy' it is to fix them.

I wouldn't call the Xformer tweak 'easy', I would call it easy.
It's easy to do. A kid could do it.

I promise.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: mattrussell on April 21, 2010, 10:35:19 PM

i wish it just worked. if i bought them at a store, i would have exchanged them immediately. i know it was a killer deal and no money was made. it also sounds like chance spent MANY days working his ass off (again, for no pay at all) and i really appreciate all of that. i really like the pre(s), just being a bit of baby i guess.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on April 22, 2010, 12:17:52 AM

Yeah, CHANCE spent many, many MONTHS working his you-know-what off on this little project that grew big.

Still is, in fact.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: redddog on April 26, 2010, 12:55:07 PM

Is there any information someone can give on any part of the process? Whether it be how the fix will be performed (kits sent out or us shipping the units in), what, in broad strokes, will be addressed for each unit etc?

I really do appreciate how much work this process takes and what a gigantic undertaking it is. And what a nightmare it has been for you guys. Honestly, I consider you heros for the effort you've put in and what you've had to seal with.

I'm just curious to hear even a sliver of detail.

Thanks again, fellas. So glad to hear that this is going forward.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on April 26, 2010, 01:33:48 PM

Once The Repair Station has been fully implemented (meaning The System Testers' units shipped, repaired and successfully returned), we will post details here.

People will be given an address to which they can UPS their units, along with a description of any problems and a UPS return voucher.

The units will be repaired, and returned to the owners.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: redddog on April 26, 2010, 02:29:41 PM

Great. Thanks so much, Terry!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on April 26, 2010, 04:38:45 PM

littlehat wrote on Wed, 21 April 2010 17:47

mattrussell wrote on Wed, 21 April 2010 15:58

i'd rather just have ones that work despite how 'easy' it is to fix them.

I wouldn't call the Xformer tweak 'easy', I would call it easy.
It's easy to do. A kid could do it.

I promise.

But could a Caveman?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: redddog on April 27, 2010, 09:22:21 AM

littlehat wrote on Wed, 21 April 2010 16:47

mattrussell wrote on Wed, 21 April 2010 15:58

i'd rather just have ones that work despite how 'easy' it is to fix them.

I wouldn't call the Xformer tweak 'easy', I would call it easy.
It's easy to do. A kid could do it.

I promise.

So is it easy or not? You say you wouldn't call it easy but then you call it easy. lol.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on April 27, 2010, 11:08:17 AM

redddog wrote on Tue, 27 April 2010 06:22

littlehat wrote on Wed, 21 April 2010 16:47

mattrussell wrote on Wed, 21 April 2010 15:58

i'd rather just have ones that work despite how 'easy' it is to fix them.

I wouldn't call the Xformer tweak 'easy', I would call it easy.
It's easy to do. A kid could do it.

I promise.

So is it easy or not? You say you wouldn't call it easy but then you call it easy. lol.

It's easy enough that I did it (I can't do anything more than make a cable). Unfortunately, it didn't help my 81s at all.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: rocketmark on April 27, 2010, 02:50:04 PM

I have two extra 84s that are seeing little use these days. If anyone is interested in them PM me and we can talk details. No issues with them other than the pop on the gain switch. It's just time to pair back the amount of stuff in the racks

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: frankrizzo on May 08, 2010, 11:32:57 AM

any new word on the fixes. at the 2 year anniversary im getting hopeful that i will be able to use mine real soon. thanks cant wait!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on May 08, 2010, 01:17:59 PM

Some of the test units are at The Repair Station now. We very soon hope to have the whole system implemented.

Thanks.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on June 15, 2010, 10:10:31 PM

What's the latest with the test run?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: frankrizzo on July 15, 2010, 09:37:41 PM

whats the good word ????????????????

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on July 15, 2010, 10:42:56 PM

Hey Frank,

Sorry I haven't gotten back to you directly. As usual, everything takes longer that one hopes, and costs more than one expects. But the trial units have provided great information, and are almost done now. The ones fixed first have been kept in the facility to be the guides for the other trial units, so we can be positive we have each situation dealt with, and have everything documented for the "public" units soon to arrive.

They are very close to making their return trip.

Thanks again.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on August 02, 2010, 01:15:33 PM

I eagerly await that PM that says my 81s are boxed up and ready to head home

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: drBill on August 05, 2010, 01:55:38 PM

chris carter wrote on Mon, 02 August 2010 12:15

I eagerly await that PM that says my 81s are boxed up and ready to head home

Good to hear it Chris!!! I'm glad you'll finally be able to put those bad boys to work. Good on Terry, Chance and crew for making that possible.

I anxiously await your thoughts....

bp

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: frankrizzo on September 08, 2010, 10:23:13 PM

well hows it going? anyone get a unit back yet?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on September 09, 2010, 10:28:16 AM

frankrizzo wrote on Wed, 08 September 2010 19:23

well hows it going? anyone get a unit back yet?

Not yet. I have two of the repair test 81s, so if I don't have mine back yet, probably nobody has theirs back.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on September 09, 2010, 11:16:56 AM

All of the "guinea pig" units are just completing their LONG burn-in period, now going in for a final test.

The repair Station wanted to be very sure that the changes implemented were good over a period of time.

Thanks to the g-pigs themselves for the use of the units, and for their patience.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: drBill on September 11, 2010, 01:48:43 PM

Sounds great Terry. Looking forward to comments on the "new improved" 81's. I hope I'll get to send mine in for the upgrade.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on September 24, 2010, 08:43:30 AM

How did the "final test" go? I'm assuming not 100%....

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on September 29, 2010, 11:35:55 AM

... or was the final test the "door stop" test? lol

But seriously... my 81s have been at the 'repair station' for 5 monhts now. My other rack gear miss their friends

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on September 29, 2010, 11:41:52 AM

They WILL soon be back with their friends, and you will be happy to both see and hear them!

Thanks for the long patient wait!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on September 29, 2010, 02:38:55 PM

So does it look like the fix is going to be something that we have to ship the units to or something that we can retrofit here?
Thanks, Pete

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: frankrizzo on October 14, 2010, 04:54:41 PM

i wonder whats happened. i was told back on june 27 th they were ready to ship back. "Hi. Just spoke to Oliver. He is really hoping to ship back by early next week, or latest end of wk. VERY crazy and busy there at The Schoolhouse. Yes, the "pop" is fixed, as well as noise/hum issues.

Will let you know asap!".

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: redddog on October 14, 2010, 09:51:17 PM

Les Ismore wrote on Wed, 29 September 2010 13:38

So does it look like the fix is going to be something that we have to ship the units to or something that we can retrofit here?
Thanks, Pete

+1

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Oliver Archut on October 15, 2010, 10:49:27 AM

i wonder whats happened. i was told back on june 27 th they were ready to ship back. "Hi. Just spoke to Oliver. He is really hoping to ship back by early next week, or latest end of wk. VERY crazy and busy there at The Schoolhouse. Yes, the "pop" is fixed, as well as noise/hum issues.

Will let you know asap!".

Yes, I told you that we have a solution for the problems, but I also told you that the solution still needed to be tested for a few weeks to see that it would work stable.
I coordinated with Terry to get the repair station for the TNC pres up and running, the tech that was suppose to do the work here at the schoolhouse got an good offer to go on tour.

Than I got a pretty bad earinfection that put everything here on hold. Since mid August I am catching up on everything.

The TNC repair will leave here after AES and there are two techs that will joint the repair effort.

Hope that helps.

Oliver

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: frankrizzo on October 15, 2010, 12:19:35 PM

not hurrying the process. just wondering how things went from units being shipped back in june to almost going on november and no info. more curious than anything how its going . a few weeks of burn in time is good but its been months and no info. thanks for your efforts. im sure it will be worth the wait.thanks again!

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on November 17, 2010, 01:55:21 PM

Oliver Archut wrote on Fri, 15 October 2010 07:49

The TNC repair will leave here after AES and there are two techs that will joint the repair effort.

Have the repaired units shipped out yet?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Oliver Archut on November 17, 2010, 02:01:17 PM

The units have not shipped out, as soon they move Terry will post an update.

Best regards,

Oliver

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on November 22, 2010, 08:09:54 AM

Oliver, could you please provide some insight as to your experiences with the preamps?

Did it turn out that Zmix's fix is all that's necessary, or were there other issues?

Were the units consistent from one to the next, or were there wild fluctuations between units of the same model?

Could you give us some insight as to the process of diagnosing them?

What was your analysis of them?

It's just a little frustrating. When we were ordering these it seems like there was an avalanch of information. But when it was determined that there were significant defects in many of them (especially the 81s) that would have to be fixed, it's almost as though a giant iron curtain came down and the only information we've gotten is "soon". It's really difficult to be understanding of how long it's taking (7 months at the repair station thus far) when there's absolutely no information coming forth other than "not ready yet" kind of stuff. I can understand if you can't provide a difinitive date to return them, but SURELY you can describe for us what you are doing with/to them.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: redddog on November 23, 2010, 11:12:11 AM

All this radio silence doesn't bode well if you ask me.

This is flat out taking too long.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on November 23, 2010, 11:47:52 AM

PEOPLE...

There is no "radio silence."

As you may remember...

Everyone got preamps and microphones WAY WAY WAY below any cost possible anywhere else in the world. No one made a single penny on the Group Buy. In fact, it not only cost CHANCE a good bit of his own MONEY (which in effect went to each of you, directly out of his pocket), but also almost cost him his physical and mental health.

Oliver has extremely kindly stepped in to see that all preamps that people want fixed (because of the designs or the manufacturing) WILL get fixed, FREE OF CHARGE for parts and labour, to each and every person.

The responsibility for this should have actually been with the Chinese manufacturing plant, but the logistics involved in doing that, as well as the costs, were prohibitive.

SO, Oliver has accepted several of each model preamp from GB guinea pigs, and has FIXED them. THEN he has been letting them burn in, and burn in, and burn in...to be absolutely sure that they are stable OVER TIME, and not just a "quick fix that goes bad" soon after.

NOW, Oliver has a LOT else to do, more than any of you can possibly imagine, and he does those things better than any other person in the entire world could do...but he does them in his own time, making sure every step of the way is as good as it can be.

So those of you who are waiting, we understand, we feel your pain, we want them back to you EVEN MORE THAN YOU DO, believe me!!

But remember you got preamps of a pretty high and usable quality for next to nothing. I am using mine daily, with no fixes at all (not 81s of course).

You will get them back, and then everyone else who wants one warranty-repaired will be able to do so.

Thank you again all for your patience and understanding.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: redddog on November 23, 2010, 12:39:09 PM

well now I feel like an a-hole.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Oliver Archut on November 23, 2010, 01:50:04 PM

Hello guys,

sorry for being short with info, but the bottom line is that fixing the QC problems of the Chinese is in the end more than what the GB price was.

There are several options of mods already published, the problem is to keep the cost down to get the DOD units up and running.

Right now I am investigating a DOD fix, an upgrade of active devices and an update of active devices and transformer.

To answer the general question, for the price those units rock, biggest problem is the china QC, some of those units left the factory broken. A problem that had not been taking in account when TNC GB started.
The good news, a working stock unit sound good for the price and it is usable for daily recording.
The update of active devices and the poping/hum issue gets them easier to use.
The active update with new transformer elevates them soundwise into British sound heaven, the stock switches work but will be the the limiting factor in lifetime and replacing them? They do work.

As Terry points it out before getting them out again, I hope that I found all other issues and a proper lifetime check is in need to put the issue finally to rest.

Sorry for not having better news at this time.

Best regards

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Kris on November 23, 2010, 02:06:19 PM

I'd be interested in buying your transformer upgrade for my 73s... maybe that could help offset some of the repair costs for the DOD folks?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on November 23, 2010, 03:22:48 PM

Thanks Terry and Oliver for the update. I have a question. After Oliver gets a handle on what the deal is on the units, is there a way to make the fix into a kit? Perhaps a choice of 2 different kits, one with just the fix for the hum etc, and a different kit with upgraded transformers etc.
I personally don't mind paying some reasonable amount for the kit or kits and as I live on Vancouver Island in Canada I think the shipping of the units to Oliver is going to be expensive and time consuming. I would rather have a kit and have someone local fix them.
I think that the biggest problem is with the 81s. I've been using the 73s and 84s without any major problems, just working around the little problems like the pop in the switch and the hum in some eq applications. I am very happy with the sound coming out. The 81s work only as mic pres unfortunately.

On a different subject, has anyone else had problems with the mics they bought in the GB? I had 5 mics that were non-functional. 3 583s and 2 200s. They pass signal but have some faulty components that make all sorts of awful noise. Is there a way to get schematics for these mics so I could take them to a tech to replace the faulty stuff inside?

Thanks, Pete

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: crazydoc on January 02, 2011, 08:20:14 PM

Oliver Archut wrote on Tue, 23 November 2010 18:50

...a proper lifetime check is in need to put the issue finally to rest.

I'm afraid some our lifetimes will expire and we will be put to rest before the issue is.

Any news?

Les Ismore wrote on Tue, 23 November 2010 20:22

On a different subject, has anyone else had problems with the mics they bought in the GB? I had 5 mics that were non-functional. 3 583s and 2 200s. They pass signal but have some faulty components that make all sorts of awful noise. Is there a way to get schematics for these mics so I could take them to a tech to replace the faulty stuff inside?

Thanks, Pete

Yes, a schematic, especially for the 200 with its potted circuit board, would be nice. I have one that sounds like a motorboat - handy for recording out on a lake.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on January 04, 2011, 10:16:19 AM

crazydoc wrote on Sun, 02 January 2011 17:20

Oliver Archut wrote on Tue, 23 November 2010 18:50

...a proper lifetime check is in need to put the issue finally to rest.

I'm afraid some our lifetimes will expire and we will be put to rest before the issue is.

Any news?

The answer at this point is pretty predictable... "they WILL be fixed SOON"... "they are undergoing their final burn-in period"... "thanks for your patience!"

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Dan-O on January 04, 2011, 09:03:11 PM

Les Ismore wrote on Tue, 23 November 2010 15:22

Thanks Terry and Oliver for the update. I have a question. After Oliver gets a handle on what the deal is on the units, is there a way to make the fix into a kit? Perhaps a choice of 2 different kits, one with just the fix for the hum etc, and a different kit with upgraded transformers etc.
I personally don't mind paying some reasonable amount for the kit or kits and as I live on Vancouver Island in Canada I think the shipping of the units to Oliver is going to be expensive and time consuming. I would rather have a kit and have someone local fix them.
I think that the biggest problem is with the 81s. I've been using the 73s and 84s without any major problems, just working around the little problems like the pop in the switch and the hum in some eq applications. I am very happy with the sound coming out. The 81s work only as mic pres unfortunately.

On a different subject, has anyone else had problems with the mics they bought in the GB? I had 5 mics that were non-functional. 3 583s and 2 200s. They pass signal but have some faulty components that make all sorts of awful noise. Is there a way to get schematics for these mics so I could take them to a tech to replace the faulty stuff inside?

Thanks, Pete

Yes I have a couple of 583's that are non-funtional. One DOA, one with faulty selection switch.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Jitters on January 05, 2011, 12:44:58 AM

Is it too late to get in on this?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on January 09, 2011, 12:43:20 PM

chris carter wrote on Tue, 04 January 2011 07:16

crazydoc wrote on Sun, 02 January 2011 17:20

Oliver Archut wrote on Tue, 23 November 2010 18:50

...a proper lifetime check is in need to put the issue finally to rest.

I'm afraid some our lifetimes will expire and we will be put to rest before the issue is.

Any news?

The answer at this point is pretty predictable... "they WILL be fixed SOON"... "they are undergoing their final burn-in period"... "thanks for your patience!"

Or....... total and complete silence.

It's ironic how when this buy started TNC was all go go go and there was a litteral avelanche of information from the supposed Neve tech that designed them to supposed tests, etc. And now it's slower than the slowest of the slowest of slow and getting any kind of info is like trying to move a mountain. And when any info does come out, it's the most shorthanded and abbreviated info on the planet and generally of the kick the can down the road variety. I know Terry keeps asking for more and more and more patience, but dude, it's a two-way street.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on January 09, 2011, 03:11:22 PM

Dude...

(First time I have ever typed that word!)

You are part of the guinea pig test repair programme. Mr. Oliver Archut, one of the best electronics technicians in the world, has agreed FOR NO COMPENSATION to oversee the repairs in his facility. Oliver has A LOT of other things to do, and is incredibly busy. This is a very kind gift.

The onus was actually on the Chinese to fix any problems, but that would have been too much of a burden on you and the others. So we finally were able to come up with this system, since, AGAIN, there was not a single penny ever made by anyone on the whole group buy thing; it was just to get members some gear at NEAR NOTHING PRICES. As stated before, in fact, much money was SPENT by the people putting it together, especially by Chance.)

Oliver's techs have now fixed several units, yours included. As also stated before,all of the units have been put into LONG TERM burn-in testing, to ensure that the fixes will indeed last.

You will get them back, when you get them back.

Thanks again for your participation, and your PATIENCE.

I know others will also be grateful to you for your sacrifice.

You will see your units again.

EDIT: AND we will try to keep a bit of information flowing!

Regards.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: crazydoc on January 10, 2011, 01:41:28 AM

I think most of us with these boxes would be satisfied, at this point, with complete honesty, which seems to have been somewhat lacking from the get-go with these units as their description evolved through the whole group buy.

I personally don't think it is possible to completely fix the all the problems with these pres in a practical and cost-effective manner, though I'd be glad to be wrong. If they can't be fixed, just say so - it's all good.

The easy fixes include swapping some transistors on the 81's, kludging the gain resistors to eliminate the "gain pop", though losing a gain position, and rotating the power transformer to minimize the induced hum in the eq inductors.

After all this, my experience is that there is residual "hum" in many of the eq settings which cannot be eliminated without extensive shielding of the inductors and the power transformer, which can be labor intensive, and still not completely eliminate the problem, though it does make them usable for most purposes.

If other fixes for these have been discovered, even though they are going through a "lifetime check", please let us know what they are so those of us who can do the repairs ourselves can try them out. Again, any honesty and transparency in this issue would be greatly appreciated. I appreciate the opportunity I had to participate in the group buy, and realize it has become an albatross around TNC's neck. I don't hold TNC responsible for fixing my equipment, but if there are potential fixes, I'd like to know about them.

Thanks in advance.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: redddog on January 10, 2011, 10:34:22 AM

Agreed.

It was and continues to be a huge humanitarian effort to get these boxes to us all. No one profited by this gargantuan process financially and I think they sound pretty amazing as is (with the exception of the 81 which needs some serious work).

The thing that would be great is if we were let in on the process just a tiny bit. Just a little idea of what was attempted, how it's looking, whether or not we will have access to a DIY kit. etc.

There is absolutely no questioning the great intentions of you guys. We're incredibly lucky to have been a part of this. I have no doubt at all that all will be made good and that these things will get to their incredible potential (still for pennies) because of your selfless goodwill.

Just a tiny bit of technical insight into what you guys are sussing out would go a long long way to calming the group down and would provide the catalyst for a "second wind" of patience.

Thanks again for going way above and beyond on this Terry et al.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on January 10, 2011, 11:30:32 AM

redddog wrote on Mon, 10 January 2011 07:34

Just a tiny bit of technical insight into what you guys are sussing out would go a long long way to calming the group down and would provide the catalyst for a "second wind" of patience.

+ 1,000,000

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on January 10, 2011, 12:28:40 PM

One reason we don't say too much about the fixes is that a special shield has been fabricated out of a certain type of mu-metal. Very few people would have access to such material, and if they even could get it, it might be dangerous if they were not expert at handling it.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Bill_Urick on January 10, 2011, 01:35:09 PM

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: crazydoc on January 10, 2011, 07:24:54 PM

compasspnt wrote on Mon, 10 January 2011 17:28

One reason we don't say too much about the fixes is that a special shield has been fabricated out of a certain type of mu-metal. Very few people would have access to such material, and if they even could get it, it might be dangerous if they were not expert at handling it.

Maybe you could at least give us the specs - shape, thickness, permeability, and saturation, so those of us that have shielded our components can see if we've used comparable materials.

And what is dangerous about it, besides the possibility of getting a nasty cut?

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: chris carter on January 12, 2011, 02:32:01 PM

Bill_Urick wrote on Mon, 10 January 2011 10:35

My wife is a pharmecutical chemist (like a biologist) and she laughed and said, "that has to be at least BSL3 or 4!" LOL.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biosafety_level

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: crazydoc on February 10, 2011, 08:51:15 PM

crazydoc wrote on Tue, 11 January 2011 00:24

compasspnt wrote on Mon, 10 January 2011 17:28

One reason we don't say too much about the fixes is that a special shield has been fabricated out of a certain type of mu-metal. Very few people would have access to such material, and if they even could get it, it might be dangerous if they were not expert at handling it.

Maybe you could at least give us the specs - shape, thickness, permeability, and saturation, so those of us that have shielded our components can see if we've used comparable materials.

And what is dangerous about it, besides the possibility of getting a nasty cut?

Bump. Anyone able to answer this? It's been a month.

These pres just ooze bad karma.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: redddog on February 10, 2011, 09:43:06 PM

crazydoc wrote on Thu, 10 February 2011 19:51

Bump. Anyone able to answer this? It's been a month.

These pres just ooze bad karma.

For the perfectionist, maybe.

But I and a bunch of other seriously accomplished producers have been using these pres as go-to pres for a long time.

I think there's some big-time good karma oozing from these bad boys.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: crazydoc on February 11, 2011, 01:28:33 AM

I'm not talking about the sound of the preamp section. But the eq of the 73 and the 81 is unusable without a fix. And changing the gain is at the least irritating, and can be damaging.

The bad karma seems to come to anyone involved in trying to fix them, not to mention to the person who arranged the group buy.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on February 11, 2011, 06:52:37 AM

Thank you Peter. If you don't mind a very tiny further wait, the units are this week emerging from their long-term test.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: redddog on February 11, 2011, 08:54:55 AM

crazydoc wrote on Fri, 11 February 2011 00:28

The bad karma seems to come to anyone involved in trying to fix them, not to mention to the person who arranged the group buy.

That, I'll agree with.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on February 11, 2011, 10:25:14 AM

Mybe that's what we get for borrowing such a revered design and expecting a golden goose.

Best,
jonathan

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: crazydoc on February 11, 2011, 10:49:12 AM

compasspnt wrote on Fri, 11 February 2011 11:52

Thank you Peter. If you don't mind a very tiny further wait, the units are this week emerging from their long-term test.

Thank you, Terry. I hope that when these fixes are finalized, there are plans to make them public so that those of us who are able can do them ourselves. A kit of parts would also be nice. Either way, it would save TNC work, time, and expense in getting these working.

0dbfs wrote on Fri, 11 February 2011 15:25

Mybe that's what we get for borrowing such a revered design and expecting a golden goose.

Best,
jonathan

So true.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on February 11, 2011, 02:22:56 PM

0dbfs wrote on Fri, 11 February 2011 10:25

...expecting a golden goose...

...for virtually NOTHING.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: 0dbfs on February 11, 2011, 02:59:01 PM

Yes. No complaints here.

I am happy with the 81's I received and have addressed the hum, buzz, and gain-switch-pop issues.

I went into this fully expecting to DIY something though and was not disappointed at all.

I would do it again.

Best,
jonathan

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: crazydoc on February 11, 2011, 05:13:23 PM

I too am happy with the 81 and the 73 I have fixed. I still have a virgin 81 that I am waiting for info on TNC's fixes to see if it's a more elegant/cost-effective way than mine.

I sent Steve Hogan another 81 two years ago, so he'd have a guinea-pig unit to work on, and again so I could compare his results to mine.

I am expecting it back tout de suite.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on February 11, 2011, 05:59:56 PM

One thing people...

Please be aware that Chance is one of the Earth's nicest and kindest people. He constantly is interested in doing nice things for people at little to no compensation for himself. As mentioned many times before, he hooked up the whole Group Buy just to have fun and help people have a chance at some interesting gear for very little outlay of funds.

Oliver is also one of the world's nicest people, and is certainly one of the world's finest designers and technicians. I like to think of him as the Werner Von Braun of audio gear. He is also one of this world's busiest people. He has taken on the repair of the test units for no cost at all, in fact, it is costing him money to do it. He is just extremely thorough, and has to fit it into his very heavy schedule.

So if you think there is "bad karma" attached to all of this, despite the fact that over 90% of the chinese GB units worked well and pleased the group members, direct your ill will towards me, and not these other wonderful people. I had nothing to do with the design or manufacture, but helped Chance get the GB out into the public view. I made not a penny from any of this and never cared nor expected to; and I bought some GB units just like you did. But I am strong, and happy to take the brunt of any complaints you want to dish out.

I say this now because within a few days this thread will probably be closed (hopefully archived and accessible though) when REP makes their software changeover.

Thanks and best regards.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: johnR on February 12, 2011, 10:08:21 AM

compasspnt wrote on Fri, 11 February 2011 19:22

0dbfs wrote on Fri, 11 February 2011 10:25

...expecting a golden goose...

...for virtually NOTHING.

+1

I haven't been involved in the group buy, but if I had I doubt that I would have been disappointed with what I got for the very small amount of money these units cost. If a little DIY repair was necessary, I don't see the problem at this low price level, especially as it doesn't appear to have been a profit-making venture.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: crazydoc on February 12, 2011, 01:20:32 PM

Terry - I am sorry for any sense of ill will here, as none is intended from most of us and particularly not from me. It's mainly frustration at the time it's taking to get these working right that has made people a little edgy.

The "bad karma" may come from the conception, gestation and birth of these units, the story of which seems quite murky and ambiguous to me. Add to this the (lack of) quality control in manufacturing, and problems are to be expected. Additionally, those of us who bought, expecting a "golden goose," are certainly a part of it.

I had the expectation that we were buying these at our own risk, and was very surprised that a warranty was included (which I think you'll agree in retrospect was a huge mistake.) I salute and commend you, Chance and Oliver for standing behind this, at some expense to yourselves, both financial and emotional. I commend Chance for arranging the group buy, and am truly sorry for him that so many problems have ensued.

I think the feeling that most applies to this whole endeavor is

"No good deed goes unpunished."

Peter

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: Les Ismore on February 12, 2011, 05:11:12 PM

I think the pres are great even without the eq, and in my purchase a few of the units eqs work which is a nice bonus. The ones that work sound great.
I (as I am sure others as well) would be happy to pay for what it costs to fix the faults in the pres like the 81s eqs etc. A purchasable kit would be great if possible or even just instructions and I'll hire a tech.
Some of the mics are really very nice (310s, 900, 1200, 680 etc.)
Regarding the mics that were doa (3 x 583s, 2 x 200s) it would be great if I could obtain a schematic if possible so I could hire someone to fix them. I don't mind paying to get them working either, but a schematic would be a great help.
I have never doubted your intentions Terry, or those of Chance. It was very generous of you both to donate your time and energy to the group buy. I truly appreciate the plan and efforts underway for some kind of fix for the eqs on the pres, and if it's possible to obtain schematics for the faulty mics that would help me out greatly.
Thanks again and I'm really sorry that it tuned into such a headache for you guys.
Pete

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: crazydoc on February 14, 2011, 10:21:34 PM

I spoke with Oliver Archut on the phone today. The preamp fixes are going slowly because (my take on it):

1) He is working on them for nothing, out of friendship for Terry and Chance.

2) He is very busy with his own work, from which he derives his income, particularly the mics, so he tries to do the ACMP stuff in spare moments. He's tried to get help, but no one/wives want to live in Kansas. He could get some help from Europe, but Kansas won't allow work visas due to the high local unemployment.

3) Some parts needed to be bought, and he's been able to use some money from the Bulldog transformer income for this, but the cost of any fixes is still an over-riding concern.

4) As he has stated, the units are/will be going through a long burn in, to make sure the fixes are stable and won't come back to bite him in the ass.

The fixes appear to be a) shielding the power transformer, and b) replacing the bad transistors on the eq boards. The inductors will not be shielded. Although not discussed, I assume the "gain pop" will be fixed, though losing a gain position, by moving a resistor on the board, as previously discussed (oh so far back in this thread and elsewhere.)

My own experience is that he quality control on these was non-existent, so each unit has to be evaluated and treated individually, which takes more time. Of the two preamps I have worked on, I found a cable unconnected (no signal), a jumper pc board not completely plugged in, a fuse jammed at an angle into the holder, a washer trapped under some components on the preamp board, and multiple deteriorating resistors.

I know it's been a long wait for those who sent in their pres to be part of this exploratory phase, but I sent one of mine (and some money) to Steve Hogan two years ago this month as a "guinea-pig" and have yet to receive anything back but a string of empty promises.

If I've got any of this wrong, Terry and Oliver please correct me. Again I commend all concerned for standing behind these. It has certainly taken its toll.

Title: Re: HERE WE GO AGAIN (gear group buys)
Post by: compasspnt on February 15, 2011, 10:41:31 AM

Thanks Peter. I think that is basically correct. We will move ahead on repairs as fast as humanly possible, given all of the circumstances you have listed.

This thread will now be locked, in anticipation of the closing of the current forum software in the next few days by REP.

Thanks to all who participated.

We shall see what happens in the new software.

Best regards.

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