Advice wanted on Randall MTS modified modules

[GuitarGuyLP]

I have also asked this on the MTS forums, but things are a bit slow there, and I know some of you have very good taste in tone here.

This year I am getting rid of a lot of gear and replacing it with a Randall RM20 combo that I picked up a couple of days ago. It came with a Voodoo modified SL+ with the Sear mod. It is crazy high gain!! But with only one module at a time I am looking for modules with more options. So far I am looking at these modules...

Jaded Faith XTC
"Description: This mod is a tour de force in gain staging and its impact on tone. Beginning with the classic purity and bark of the Plexi mode, we journey through the organic overdrive of the Blue channel and end on the greasy high gain bliss of the Red channel. The Structure switch is available in both the Blue and Red channels. It restructures the gain staging, offering additional saturation and compression for a wider range of gain tones than you could ever ask for.
Several customers have pointed out that it provides a perfect solution for those with limited module slots, such as users of the RM20 or RM22. The Plexi mode delivers beautiful cleans and light crunch and the Blue and Red channels cover everything else. It is truly like having three modules in one."

Salvation mods Chupacabra
"Hide your livestock and other modules! Here comes the Chupacabra! Fat aggressive hi-gain, very tight and very variable. This is a Salvation Mods special recipe from ingredients of Bogner, Splawn, Groove Tubes, Mesa Boogie and own design!
It is a very aggressive high gain module. Upgraded from the classic Salvation 1666 mod, it’s versatility expanded and tone tuned to perfection. This module is ultra versatile, you can play everything from blues rock to death metal with this thing. Articulation, versatility and power - this is shortest possible description of the Salvation Mods Chupacabra.
Features
Noise gate switch
CLAWS changes gain structure: crunch - Hi gain - Extra hi-gain
GROWL changes upper mids - from left to right : Classic (marshallesque mids), open (scoopier tone, similar voicing to some Engl amps), Thick (Rectoish growling mids)"

I am pretty sold on the XTC, the sound clips sound great on that one, I am thinking about the Chupacabra since I would want something for more modern high gain sounds. Anyone here have any experience with modified modules?? Anyone go down this road before?? Any thoughts??

I am going to wait until I have the XTC module and am past the honeymoon before I sell my Mako or anything else, but I am really liking the potential of this small simple setup of a 112 combo on a 112 extension cab.

 

[FUZZboat]

Hey saw your post on grailtone


IMHO get rid of the RM20 if you want to know what your
Voodoo modified SL+ "really" sounds like

RM20 "colors" the tone - atleast mine did, not in a bad
way but to my ears the RM20 has a "jazz" tone no matter
what module is in it.

If your not playing "live" in a band I suggest

Find a RM4 at a music store near you and try your Voodoo SL+
thru that. (I run my RM4 out to 2 combo amps (Crate/Marshall) that I use as power amps & I hook those up to 2 4X12's. If your playing
in band the RM100 is want you want (it sounds the best or atleast
thats the consensus on grailtone)


I had G.A.S. as bad as alot of guys here on rig-talk and went thru
a shitload of amps.

I went the MTS route 2 years ago - eventually found 4 modded modules that give me everything I want (believe or not it even
killed my G.A.S. for a Cameron)

as for the XTC and Chupa it all depends on what kind of music
you play.

For example I see people buying a JF 59 RR and then try to play Deth Metal with it and then not long after selling it

Thats not what its meant to do - to my ears the JF 59 RR is what the marshall jmp-1 should sound like - a room full of classic "just like the album" marshalls

and it does that PERFECTLY ! (I know becuase I own a JF 59 RR)

again, it all depends on what kind of music you play.

just ask at grailtone what mod gets this [insert band name] tone

you will get honest replys and advice from the dudes there

as far as voodoo mods - I've found players either love em or hate em - I tried several voodoo mods that never really did much for me
tonewise compared to other similiar mods (SL+ & plexi)

I do have a voodoo recto which another guy could get rid of fast
enough - I LOVE this Thing !!

To my ears its what a Modern Marshall should sound like - I hate muddy dull boogie recto tone and before I would never even have considered buying anything recto (modded or stock)

I bought it because of a clip Mike P posted with his voodoo recto
if it wasn't for Mike's Clip I never would have know how good this thing sounds


one more thing, modded or stock the modules sound alot better booosted (I use a Bad Monkey and a Dano CTO-1) with awesome
results.


Lastly I'm a 100% modded marshall guy & my RM4 is loaded with

Freidman HBE
JF 59 RR
Voodoo Recto
SL+ (self modded)

I've never been happier with the sheer number of killer "spot-on" -just like the album/CD - tones I can achieve (infact I'll be posting clips on grailtone of my mods in the near future)

have a happy new year

 

[GuitarGuyLP]

Cool stuff thanks for all the info. As for what bands I want to sound like I can't really pick one. I dig a lot of different amps from the Makoplex channel of my Mak4, to a dual rectifier, to an ENGL E530, VHT 50/CL, Peters Warhawk etc. They are all very different beasts, and I find inspiration from all of them. I have bought and sold a lot of amps, and I am finding that I want simple.

This morning I have been playing around with a lot of different Bias levels for the RM20, and with the Bias just below 15mA (quite cold) it seems to get a lot more clarity, and punch. Between that, removing the Greenback for the Scumback (I might also try a few different speakers), and cranking down the internal gain pot in the Voodoo SL+ I am starting to get some tones that are pretty killer.

I actually had an RM100 a while back, and I just prefer lower wattage amps for now. I might look into an RM50 head, or combo to turn into a head down the road, but I am liking the RM20 so far. I have also ran my Mak4 into the FX return, and it sounds killer!!!! I might have a look at the schematic (if I can find one) and see if there is any major difference between the front end of the RM20 vs 50/100/RM4. I might even look into modding it to be closer if that is the case.

BTW - Here is a link to the module that really has my gas going right now... SG XTC and for more modern high gain Dragon!! Those two should keep me busy for a while. I am thinking that the Chupacabra at $400 used is a bit too high for something that I might not like at all.

 

[c2ply]

The SG XTC is a killer module - actually all of his are killer - and its a shame he has hung up the iron. I've been thru just about every module (stock and modified) over the last 7 years and have settled mainly on the Salvations - they just fit me the best. The Chupa is a killer module - and super versatile - if looking for one module to cover a lot of ground you can't go wrong with it (its one of the about 30 Salvations I have). It does mid gain really well, as well as high gain, and can get very modern sounding, or a bit vintage - super flexible. For down tuned metal though - I still prefer the 1666 - as it has one tone that the Chupa is close to - but the 1666 does it better, but then again its not nearly as versatile as the Chupa, its strictly in the metal vein - so there is the trade off.

Other than the Salvations - I've kept the SG XTC LE (was an original Red/Blue that I had upgraded - and both revisions were killer), Fisch, and Diablo (another module that can cover clean to high gain - just another unbelievable module), and two Dave Friedman modded - the RM stuff is with modded modules is a great setup, and sounds 99% of most boutique amps. I sold off two SLO's after comparing them to the Salvo Deluxe and it was 97.5% of the SLO (the SLO was still a bit better at high volume) - but for the fact that I got that "tone" along with my choice of two other channels meant I didn't miss the SLO's at all, nor the VHT's (have a Terrier II), Bogners, Marshall's, and even though I was never much of a Mesa guy - I can actually get tones out of the Mesa modules that sound like the things that I hear others pull out of mesa amps, but I never could (had a Mark II, Mark III, Mark IV, and a couple of Recto's) always got one - and within a month was trading it off for something else, and it means I'm carrying much less expensive gear to gigs now - so if something were to happen - its a little easier to replace.

The nice thing is most modules if you pick them up used - is you can try them and if they don't work out - usually flip them for something else and only be out $10-30 bucks for shipping or "discount" for a quicker sale. Between selling off all my other amps - and flipping modules I've been thru almost all of them - and when you find what works for you - its a great day, and usually a much easier to handle flipping (easier to pack and ship a one pound module than 40-60 pound amps). Again you can't go wrong with the Chupa (and I'm the same user name over at the MTS board - so I'm not the one selling that one - as mine will never leave here), yeah, the Salvo's are a bit more money - but so far I've thought they are worth it (and I've had many of the modders modules side by side to test). I've only played one Voodoo modded module though - and would eventually like to try a bit more of his stuff (about the only one I haven't tried enough of - I only had a old Sear mod - and flipped it too soon).

 

[GuitarGuyLP]

It seems like everyone who has tried the modded modules love them. As I said $400 for the Chupa seems a bit high, but I might still think about picking it up. Have you checked out the link for the Dragon mod?? That one is from one of the guys on the MTS forums the cost including buying a used stock module to have modded would be about $275 vs $400 for the Chupa. I have some thinking to do. The Chupa sure sounds like it will kick some ass, and I would think with that and an XTC would cover a lot of ground.

I might have a trade plus cash in the works for SG XTC, and if that works out I might be able to afford the Chupa. How would those two compliment each other??

 

[drewiv]

'c2ply' knows what he's talking about, trust me. He doesn't post very often, as he's doing what most of us should be doing -- playing. I agree with everything he's said here... except, I kept my SLO.

And to the OP, the MTS crowd will get back to you over there. It generally is a slower board than over here.

The SG XTC is a killer module - actually all of his are killer - and its a shame he has hung up the iron. I've been thru just about every module (stock and modified) over the last 7 years and have settled mainly on the Salvations - they just fit me the best. The Chupa is a killer module - and super versatile - if looking for one module to cover a lot of ground you can't go wrong with it (its one of the about 30 Salvations I have). It does mid gain really well, as well as high gain, and can get very modern sounding, or a bit vintage - super flexible. For down tuned metal though - I still prefer the 1666 - as it has one tone that the Chupa is close to - but the 1666 does it better, but then again its not nearly as versatile as the Chupa, its strictly in the metal vein - so there is the trade off.

Other than the Salvations - I've kept the SG XTC LE (was an original Red/Blue that I had upgraded - and both revisions were killer), Fisch, and Diablo (another module that can cover clean to high gain - just another unbelievable module), and two Dave Friedman modded - the RM stuff is with modded modules is a great setup, and sounds 99% of most boutique amps. I sold off two SLO's after comparing them to the Salvo Deluxe and it was 97.5% of the SLO (the SLO was still a bit better at high volume) - but for the fact that I got that "tone" along with my choice of two other channels meant I didn't miss the SLO's at all, nor the VHT's (have a Terrier II), Bogners, Marshall's, and even though I was never much of a Mesa guy - I can actually get tones out of the Mesa modules that sound like the things that I hear others pull out of mesa amps, but I never could (had a Mark II, Mark III, Mark IV, and a couple of Recto's) always got one - and within a month was trading it off for something else, and it means I'm carrying much less expensive gear to gigs now - so if something were to happen - its a little easier to replace.

The nice thing is most modules if you pick them up used - is you can try them and if they don't work out - usually flip them for something else and only be out $10-30 bucks for shipping or "discount" for a quicker sale. Between selling off all my other amps - and flipping modules I've been thru almost all of them - and when you find what works for you - its a great day, and usually a much easier to handle flipping (easier to pack and ship a one pound module than 40-60 pound amps). Again you can't go wrong with the Chupa (and I'm the same user name over at the MTS board - so I'm not the one selling that one - as mine will never leave here), yeah, the Salvo's are a bit more money - but so far I've thought they are worth it (and I've had many of the modders modules side by side to test). I've only played one Voodoo modded module though - and would eventually like to try a bit more of his stuff (about the only one I haven't tried enough of - I only had a old Sear mod - and flipped it too soon).

 

[GuitarGuyLP]

This is all good stuff to know. What is holding me back about the Chupa is the fact that I am going to be in Europe for a month this summer, and I have some family over there. I am thinking that I might try to find a couple of donor modules for cheap, and send them in from Europe, and have them shipped from Salvation to my family in Wales. That way I will save a good bit on shipping, but I am not sure if it is worth the hassle.

This all came up really fast, I just found a deal on an RM20 with the Voodoo module that I couldn't pass up. I even drove 6 hours round trip to pick it up!!!!

 

[drewiv]

The modded modules are special. Near boutique amp quality, and by near boutique I'm talking 95%-99% (I'm dead serious). I am heavily invested in Salvation Mods, but do have a few each from: Voodoo, Jaded Faith, Sacred Groove and Gigmods. I use ZERO stock modules, but I'm not saying they're bad. The stocks work, but the modded modules will spoil you quickly.

I have owned a Chupa in the past. I sold it as it's more modern than what I'm going for. My tones mostly come from pre-'92. I do own a Sacred Groove XTC Red/Blue, not quite the LE, but I love it and didn't want the LE mod when I sent it back to him for the Red/Blue revision. Having owned both I say they'd go well together. I also owned the Dragon mod and have sold that as well (purple Mogwaii faceplate). Again, too modern. Honestly, I think you'd be happier saving up and getting the Chupa. IMHO

It seems like everyone who has tried the modded modules love them. As I said $400 for the Chupa seems a bit high, but I might still think about picking it up. Have you checked out the link for the Dragon mod?? That one is from one of the guys on the MTS forums the cost including buying a used stock module to have modded would be about $275 vs $400 for the Chupa. I have some thinking to do. The Chupa sure sounds like it will kick some ass, and I would think with that and an XTC would cover a lot of ground.

I might have a trade plus cash in the works for SG XTC, and if that works out I might be able to afford the Chupa. How would those two compliment each other??

 

[drewiv]

What is holding me back about the Chupa is the fact that I am going to be in Europe for a month this summer, and I have some family over there. I am thinking that I might try to find a couple of donor modules for cheap, and send them in from Europe, and have them shipped from Salvation to my family in Wales.

Salvation has donor modules in stock, and available for $130, I think? Somewhere in that neighborhood. Not bad, and you save time and shipping. Not to mention they are brand new modules from Randall.

 

[Mr. Burton]

I dig a lot of different amps from the Makoplex channel of my Mak4, to a dual rectifier, to an ENGL E530, VHT 50/CL, Peters Warhawk etc.

Check out the EG5. Admittedly I am a bit out of the loop on the modded stuff but I own a Pitbull and they are characteristically similar. I may take another trip on the module merry-go-round. My setup has been pretty set with stock Egnater mods for years but I haven't tried much of the modded stuff. Salvation's Duoplex and H-Watt are intriguing but I feel like Jeff Schroeder hogged all the cookies.

 

[GuitarGuyLP]

I might check out the EG5 at a later date if I see one available, but for now I am just trying to get a few bases covered with the modules that are currently in the classifieds.

Now I had an interesting option come up. I might be able to score a SG Diablo. So now I have the decision of Diablo, or Chupacabra to go with the SG XTC. That is a tough decision. I think that the Chupa might be able to cover more ground, but the Diablo is bad ass!!!

 

[GuitarGuyLP]

So I have decided to sell the RM20 to fund an RM50. This is definitely my fastest amp flip ever!!! I figure if I am going to give the modular amps a try I should give them a good chance. I am thinking the XTC, and Chupa will be the modules, and that should give the modular route a good chance.

 

[drewiv]

So I have decided to sell the RM20 to fund an RM50. This is definitely my fastest amp flip ever!!! I figure if I am going to give the modular amps a try I should give them a good chance. I am thinking the XTC, and Chupa will be the modules, and that should give the modular route a good chance.

Good choice on the RM50.

 

[FUZZboat]

So I have decided to sell the RM20 to fund an RM50. This is definitely my fastest amp flip ever!!! I figure if I am going to give the modular amps a try I should give them a good chance. I am thinking the XTC, and Chupa will be the modules, and that should give the modular route a good chance.

IMHO the el84 based RM20/RM22 is perfect if someone
wants "vox=like" tones. el84's just can't deliver the
"crunch" like a el34/5881 based amp can

after owning a RM20 and now a RM4 - I've never been happier

The RM4 delivers the goods with a good power amp (solid state
or tube) the only downside is a sizeable $$ initial investment
to find the right modules

see ya at grailtone

 

[the rossness]

I've played my share of salvation modules and they're exceptional. I have a Custom 3, which does tight hi-gain, but with a marshall flair. I had the Mash-All+ and didn't care for it. I found it too bassy and didn't like the gain structure. The MatchVox is fantastic and is better than a real vox, IMO. I have a Slavado DLX, English Angel, Stonverb and another Matchvox on order. I can't comment on the chapucabbra as I'm not too much into that tone.

As for jaded faith. I had his recto and didn't like it at all. However, I am interested in his Dumble clone.

 

[GuitarGuyLP]

So deals are finalized. RM50 on its way to me, sale pending on the RM20

Sacred Groove XTC, and Diablo (pre 500 recto with lots of options), and Salvation Chupacabra (Original Slavation high gain with 9 options) are being sent to me later this week I will be doing a shoot out between these modules, and my Peters, and Mako the loosers will be sold. Clips will be made, and posted I haven't been this excited about a gear purchse since my first Mesa amp after I got rid of my Line 6 gear

Clips (not from me) for the SG XTC
http://mtsforum.grailtone.com/viewtopic.php?t=11897

Clips (not from me) for the Chupacabra
https://soundclick.com/share.cfm?id=9614730
https://soundclick.com/share.cfm?id=9628369

 

[drewiv]

That's the way to roll into MTS! I will honestly be shocked if you don't love it as you have some great modules coming your way.

So deals are finalized. RM50 on its way to me, sale pending on the RM20

Sacred Groove XTC, and Diablo (pre 500 recto with lots of options), and Salvation Chupacabra (Original Slavation high gain with 9 options) are being sent to me later this week I will be doing a shoot out between these modules, and my Peters, and Mako the loosers will be sold. Clips will be made, and posted

Clips for the SG XTC
http://mtsforum.grailtone.com/viewtopic.php?t=11897

Clips for the Chupacabra
https://soundclick.com/share.cfm?id=9614730
https://soundclick.com/share.cfm?id=9628369

 

[GuitarGuyLP]

I really like the idea of having a good number of options, and it is reasonable prices to do trades between modified modules if there are any that I don't care for. I am also thinking about converting the combo into a head, and getting one of these cabs which is the perfect size for the head to fit on. Much easier to flip modules then amps lol. I am also going to be in Europe for a month in the summer. I am thinking about getting a couple of donor modules to Salvation, and save on shipping (if there is anything that I want, but don't have from these ones)

http://voltageamps.ca/Voltage_Guitar_Ca ... S212D.html

I would most likely do a V30/T75 mix since I have heard that a lot of the modules are voiced for the T75s since those are stock. But I will worry about speakers, and cabs once I have played with a few options and know what works.

 

[drewiv]

Salvation has donors available for $130, brand new from Randall and no shipping fees associated. Maybe you could order them and PICK UP when you're in Europe and save ALL shipping costs. NOW we're talking.

I use an X pattern of WGS Veteran 30s & HM75s, sounds good by me.

I really like the idea of having a good number of options, and it is reasonable prices to do trades between modified modules if there are any that I don't care for. I am also thinking about converting the combo into a head, and getting one of these cabs which is the perfect size for the head to fit on. Much easier to flip modules then amps lol. I am also going to be in Europe for a month in the summer. I am thinking about getting a couple of donor modules to Salvation, and save on shipping (if there is anything that I want, but don't have from these ones)

http://voltageamps.ca/Voltage_Guitar_Ca ... S212D.html

I would most likely do a V30/T75 mix since I have heard that a lot of the modules are voiced for the T75s since those are stock. But I will worry about speakers, and cabs once I have played with a few options and know what works.

 

[GuitarGuyLP]

I seem to be in the minority about WGS, but I don't really like them. I has a Retro 30, and ET65, The ET65 is decent, but compared to a scumback, or Celestion it isn't that great to me. I might also try a Mesa Celestion MC-90 to see how that sounds. Those seem to be one of the better single 12 open back speakers (to me at least)