K
Kaleidos
New member
Hi everyone,
This is my first post here on Rig-Talk, and I feel privileged to be part of this community.
I'm considering purchasing a Matchless Independence 35W and I’d like to ask those with direct experience for some insights.
As far as I understand, there are three iterations of the Independence: 1) Mk1, with no effects loop; 2) Mk2 (early), with an effects loop using a single TRS jack (send/return combined); 3) Mk2 (later), with separate send and return jacks, more like a conventional loop.
I’d like to know: Are there any noticeable tonal or feel differences between the Mk1 and Mk2, particularly in terms of dynamics, midrange response, or touch sensitivity?
Between the two Mk2 versions, does the TRS loop behave more transparently or closer to the Mk1 in terms of tone, compared to the later send/return version?
When the loop is not in use, is it completely bypassed from the signal path in either Mk2 version, or does it still introduce buffering or impedance changes?
Any other relevant design differences that might affect tone (e.g., layout changes, circuit tweaks)?
I’m mainly a front-end player and value dynamic response and clarity, so I’m trying to understand whether the Mk1 has a sonic edge, or if one of the Mk2 versions retains that character.
Thanks so much in advance for your help – it’s a rare amp and user experience is gold here.
This is my first post here on Rig-Talk, and I feel privileged to be part of this community.
I'm considering purchasing a Matchless Independence 35W and I’d like to ask those with direct experience for some insights.
As far as I understand, there are three iterations of the Independence: 1) Mk1, with no effects loop; 2) Mk2 (early), with an effects loop using a single TRS jack (send/return combined); 3) Mk2 (later), with separate send and return jacks, more like a conventional loop.
I’d like to know: Are there any noticeable tonal or feel differences between the Mk1 and Mk2, particularly in terms of dynamics, midrange response, or touch sensitivity?
Between the two Mk2 versions, does the TRS loop behave more transparently or closer to the Mk1 in terms of tone, compared to the later send/return version?
When the loop is not in use, is it completely bypassed from the signal path in either Mk2 version, or does it still introduce buffering or impedance changes?
Any other relevant design differences that might affect tone (e.g., layout changes, circuit tweaks)?
I’m mainly a front-end player and value dynamic response and clarity, so I’m trying to understand whether the Mk1 has a sonic edge, or if one of the Mk2 versions retains that character.
Thanks so much in advance for your help – it’s a rare amp and user experience is gold here.
