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Dec 31, 2009, 7:58pm

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Z-Talk! :: General :: Maz 18 Jr. :: Deal or No Deal?
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jazzrat
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Deal or No Deal?
« Thread Started on Nov 7, 2009, 8:43am »
I am completely new to Dr. Z amps. I have wanted to play through one for years but only last night got the chance – it was a religious experience! Here is my question – I have an opportunity to purchase a used MAZ-18 2X12 for $1,000. I believe this amp to be about 6 years old with original tubes. The amp seems to be in near mint condition with one small ding in the tolex. I love the sound of this amp but the reverb hums quite loud. If you crank the reverb completely down – no hum. Is this something easily remedied? There also seems to be some “sonic swooshing” sound very faint in the background as notes decay. This aspect can not be heard at all in a playing situation. I actually would prefer the 1X12 configuration because at 65 pounds this is not the most portable of amps. On the other hand, My amp spends 90% of it’s time parked at our rehearsal space so the weight is not a huge factor. So, is this a great deal or not? Any and all opinions are welcome.
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mangoman
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Re: Deal or No Deal?
« Reply #1 on Nov 7, 2009, 9:15am »
For $1000, as long as the speakers arent in need of replacing, and there isnt anything electronically wrong with it, you will be pleased. Throw another $100-$150 for a quality retube, and you will be as good as new.
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wavorlyseth
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Re: Deal or No Deal?
« Reply #2 on Nov 7, 2009, 9:20am »
I'd be willing to bet that a tube change would solve all the problems with this amp... Its hard to imagine that it even works with 6 year old power tubes in it. If you go with standard new production tubes you can re-tube for less than 100 bucks. If you like how it sounds with those old tubes just wait till you hear a new set of power tubes in there.


All the other aspects are just things you'll have to decide... 2x12 vs 1x12? Thats up to you my friend.

1000 bucks is a pretty good price i would say.
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Re: Deal or No Deal?
« Reply #3 on Nov 7, 2009, 11:35am »
If the weight is not a factor, I'd jump on that one. You should plan to replace the power tubes at a minimum, but that reverb problem could be a preamp tube. The only tube you should consider not changing would be the rectifier. If it's an old one (meaning a '50's to '70's model) you should keep it. If it's made it 6 years, it may be one you want to plan keeping.

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Re: Deal or No Deal?
« Reply #4 on Nov 7, 2009, 11:46am »
I believe I would be all over that one in a hurry........ ;D
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Re: Deal or No Deal?
« Reply #5 on Nov 7, 2009, 1:24pm »
I had a 2x12 Maz Jr...yeah, it's heavy. But for $1000...and it's a reverb model (which are more expensive)...that's a DEAL.

Most of the problems you're describing are tube related. 6 years on original tubes? It was due for a re-tubing years ago. As for the reverb noises. It could be the reverb tubes, or the cables could need cleaning.

If you had a 'religious experience' with 6 year old tubes....it will be even better with new tubes!!!
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jazzrat
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Re: Deal or No Deal?
« Reply #6 on Nov 7, 2009, 1:25pm »
Thanks to all for your suggestions and opinions. I have the amp at home now and low and behold - the reverb buzz is silent. In fact the amp sounds simply incredible! I think that I have a keeper on my hands. I still plan on new tubes to get the most out of this amp but will also have to look into the circuit I was plugged into at practice and figure out if I can find the source of that annoying hum. The reverb in this unit sounds to good to me ears to be left off. Thanks again for all of your help.
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dmy1950
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Re: Deal or No Deal?
« Reply #7 on Nov 7, 2009, 6:46pm »
Get yourself a 2 wheel cart to move it around, and you're going to be a happy owner. I bought a used 2-12 combo 2 yrs. ago, and it's a tone monster. I re-tubed it, and it's still cooking with those tubes 2 yrs. later, sounding OUTSTANDING! I'm 59 yrs. old and still doing it. There is nothing that matches a Maz Jr. , in my book! Enjoy!!!!!!!!!
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jeff25
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Re: Deal or No Deal?
« Reply #8 on Nov 11, 2009, 7:52pm »
I took care of a "sonic swooshing" soud as described by cleaning all the jacks. Go for the tubes,too!
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jrudder
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Re: Deal or No Deal?
« Reply #9 on Nov 13, 2009, 10:29am »
I would definitely NOT buy this for $1000!

Uh, could you send me the name and number of the guy who is trying to rip you off. I'd like to call him and give him a piece of my mind. Of all the nerve!

Seriously, this sounds like a no brainer. Buy the amp.

JR
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Re: Deal or No Deal?
« Reply #10 on Nov 13, 2009, 2:18pm »
Deal!!!!
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