PRS - I HATE you more than ever! 😡

[@mrnolan27]

I have had mine for a few years and absolutely agree! Take the noise away and it is absolutely amazing. Hence the reason for a Kemper :) An EQ in the loop really tightens it up as well!

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

I have an EQ in the loop when I'm gigging. It makes things always better! 🙌 Profiles for Kemper are in the making! 😁🤘

[@mattmadden3716]

Thank you for the info! These details are super helpful when deciding where to deploy hard-earned money on music gear.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Hey I'm glad my video helped you! 🤘❤️

[@robertolsen9721]

I just saw another video of this matter, it can be almost fixed with swapping out the 5th tube to a 12au7. Its the last tube to the left in the line of 5 tubes close to the transformer.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Isn't this the one for the fx-loop? I'll check it, thanks Robert! 🤘❤️

[@robertolsen9721]

@@CarstenStepanowicz Yes it is. I'm happy to help. I don't have the amp myself but I like it.

[@danielgalanti2166]

@robertolsen9721 your losing a lot of gain with a 12au7. I'm going to try it, but if it affects my tone in a negative way, I'll deal with the noise. I'll be getting a boogie soon, so this will just be for backup.

[@jimmcdougall9973]

Hiss is always acceptable, but this amp sounds like its tubes are going/blown, from the start. That’s the only time I have had that type of noise, is when the tubes need replacing. I would prefer a Friedman be, or a Bogner Uber.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

I'd prefer a Friedman or Bogner too but my wallet says no.

[@davidtaylar8870]

I played amps like the 5150 that had CRAZY noise as well... even when I made a custom patch on Helix it still needed a gate. I always figured that it's just the price to pay for such sweet tone. The MT15 was on my radar initially but instead I got into digital solutions since they have more control of the final product imo. Both Helix and Kemper have great gates and I don't miss the daily battle. Great video btw! I love to see the joy that springs to your face the second you start playing! It inspires me to pick up my guitar too.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Hey, that makes me happy! Thank you so much! I need both in my life. For recording at home I mainly use my Kemper but every now and and then I want to crank a good tube amp. 🤘🙂

[@ZeGlob1]

I bought mine from music store 2 years ago. When it arrived i was badly surprised with that weird interference/emi noise like you demonstrated at 4:10.. sent the amp back for replacement, the new one is perfectly silent ! So this actually is a defect !

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

The first one I had was perfectly silent too. Then after 6 months it started to sound like there's a hurricane inside the amp. 😂

[@slizher]

​@@CarstenStepanowiczHi! And how has it ended? Is it permanent? Any solutions? Greets!

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

@slizher Permanent noise. I tamed it with a noise gate in the loop. 🫡

[@slizher]

@@CarstenStepanowicz Thanks!

[@Singlehand_Music]

The amp sounds great, however, yes, the noise is excessive - I feel you. I had some frustrating experience with brand new Engl Ironball (line out was not working properly) and a Marshall JCM-800 mini (very noisy effects loop). Keep rocking 🤘

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Oh man, that sucks! Thank you, will keep on rocking! ✌️😁

[@waynewhelahan1632]

Beautiful tone and your voice is awesome!

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Thank you so much! Glad you like it! 🤘❤️

[@ProducerJosh]

Dang that noise is crazy. But definitely love the sound of the amp when it’s working ❤

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Absolutely agree! ❤️🙌

[@clcare5563]

If I recall correctly there is a guy that came up with a fix. You need a new tube somewhere in the chain to get rid of that noise. Granted you may still have some noise with super high gain but less.

[@robertolsen9721]

On all demos this amp has a high noise floor. Sounds great as long as you're playing😊 I had a 5150 combo before that had to be used with a gate. Now I have a Fireball 100 and the gate collecting dust.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Thanks! Yes, the ENGL amps are amazingly quiet and the Fireball has a gate built in, if I'm not mistaken. Cool amp! 🤘❤️

[@kopan14]

wow, mine's been holding strong for nearly 2 years w/o any noise such a great amp in a size of a lunch box

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

It is absolutely a good sounding amp! Guess I just had bad luck twice 😂

[@kopan14]

@@CarstenStepanowicz i think it's rare to have such on-going humming issue ? try another warranty attempt?

[@rag103]

I’ve been gigging my prs mt15 since 2020. I have no noise issues. I have had those issues before. I changed started to change my patch cables in the pedalboard and as I changed more and more of the cheap ones to good quality, the noise decreased. I have none now. We mostly none. You will get a little noise in the high gain but nothing unexpected. Same you get from every designed for metal channel. I hope you gift he issue out. Such a great amp to gig with.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Thank you! A good noise gate inthe fx loop does the trick for me.✌️

[@tomix1970pl1]

I had the same with Marshall JCM 800 and it was traffo.The same sound.

[@240zzz]

I bought one when they were out for about 6 months,,, mine is very quiet. A bit of lite hiss with the gain at 2-3 oclock but a $3000 marshall does the same. Its a great amp for the $$ and I would crank this next to any amp on the market.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

It‘s hit and miss with this model. For the money it‘s one of the best amps out there imo. 🤘

[@Dirt_Serpent]

My Archon started making noise at one point but that turned out to just be a bad tube though. I personally haven’t enjoyed any amp at all that isn’t my Archon going all the way back to 2016. The Archon 100 is simply just the one for me. Too bad it was discontinued…

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

But the MT100 is out! Hope it'll hit the shelves in Germany soon. I have to try it out. 🤘

[@THEZ0DIACSPEAKS]

i picked mine up as part of the first run with 6l6's and haven't had any issues with noise BUT i have to say I've never even come close to the tone you've got going here. you're getting tones that make me miss my Framus Cobra!!!...... I still have it but its way too loud to use in my garage and I'm not 20 anymore so having the neighbors call the cops isn't funny anymore lol

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

@@THEZ0DIACSPEAKS That‘s why I‘m having such a hard time with the amp. The Karen inside me says the noise is unacceptable but the rest of my body says dang the amp sounds great!

[@danielgalanti2166]

I've had 2 of these and yes there are noise issues. Oddly, when it's on standby. It's a great gigging amp but I use a noise gate. I love the amp but I'm planning on getting a meas 25...or 35. I had one and should have never sold it. Great tone, no noise. To bad this amp does sound great but I gig alot and I can't deal with it .

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

@@danielgalanti2166 That‘s a huge downside of the MT-15. I feel you! 🤘❤️

[@dirktucker77]

I just bought one brand new from guitar center the other day. It makes the exact noise, its my first tube amp so i thought it was the power at my house perhaps. Evil-plan wait till the 1 yr warranty is almost up then request a new one...lol

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

That's how you do it 😁🙌

[@brunomo123]

Bought one 2 days ago....very quite! To my surprise it has the 6l6 tubes not the 5881. Great amp \m/

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Awesome! I‘m super happy for you! The amp is killer if quiet! 😅🤝 Maybe they didn‘t have the 5881 available in the factory when the amp was built. There will be experts out there telling you there‘s a huge difference between 5881 and 6l6 powertubes but it‘s really not worth mentioning. Enjoy the amp Bruno! 🤘❤️

[@acdover]

I was going to buy one from a friend last year. It sounded great...but it also had an excessive hum without a gate. I was going to live with it until I hooked it up to an A/B box with my triple rectifier. The hum was at least twice as bad. The gate wouldn't cover it. That was the end of that deal. Amp was way too noisy.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

😢

[@rag103]

If both amps are on the same ground you will always get crazy noise from one. I have a similar setup. 5150 & mt15 using a radial aby. Get a Morley humno or a hum eliminator. I prefer the hum eliminator. Probably will be gone. Don’t need to run both thru it. Just one amp.

[@acdover]

@rag103 I've never had an issue with other amps, only the PRS. I now only use the triple rectifier. Getting too old to haul two 4x12 😫

[@rag103]

@@acdover there is an easy fix if you’re up to the task. Most the issue is the wiring inside. They need to be moved and secured. Similar to having a noisy power supply on a pedalboard. It needs to be moved due to magnetic interference and noise bleed. That’s why some people have the issue with this amp and others don’t. The wires aren’t secured and some just move to an area that allows noise bleed. Simple but not fast fix. A lot of open, move, test. Move test. Move test. Till you find a spot to place them without the bleed. Friend of mine had that issue and we both opened it and did the moves. Personally I feel the $30 for the hum eliminator is a better option over taking a chance.

[@rag103]

@@acdover btw Marshall 8412 It’s a 1960 412 but 3/4 size. About 20-25lbs less

[@argento8447]

I had this amp for about 2 years now, 0 problems with noise, I have an ISP noise decimator in my rig that I barely use. The problem might be with the amount of gain you're using, that amp as an insane amount of gain, much much more than anybody would probably need, I keep the gain knob at maybe 3/10 and I use a Maxon OD808 as a boost with drive at 0/10, level at 7/10 and tone at noon in front of the amp, by doing so I have a very nice rythm sound with relatively low noise. (I play death metal, for reference)

[@lovecraftmusic8717]

Mine doesn't have all the gain you say... And I use emg 81 with no boost. I need the gain pot at 6 at least

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

@lovecraftmusic8717 Wow, that‘s unusual actually. Bought it new?

[@lovecraftmusic8717]

@@CarstenStepanowicz nope, it was used and I t has all the original JJ tubes in the pre and poweramp. At least doesn't seem very noisy.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

@@lovecraftmusic8717 As long as it’s quiet and you have enough gain on tap you have an amazing amp! 🤘❤️

[@vincelupone]

4:15 this amp reaches max saturation at about 9:00 on the gain knob and a lot of times this type of noise is tubes. The gain knob never needs to be at 2 o'clock and will be surely noisy pushing that kind of signal through the preamp. You don't need advice, you know what you're doing, but if it was mine I'd find the noisy 12ax7, replace it, and put the gain down a bit. It's sheer brutality at 9 o'clock on these amps.

[@musicinsession]

I sent two of these amps back for the exact same reason! They are built in China and QC is crap! I ended up sending it back and getting my money back, BUT.... since I am an idiot (and the amp sounds ridiculously good when it works) I bought a third one but in second hand and half the price. Then replaced all the valves and re-soldered the wires and dry joints and the problem went away. It's usually one of the pre-amp valves.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Oh yeah, I feel you. I won't send this one back. I can control the noise with a noise gate in the loop. Like you said the amp sounds so good! It's a shame that QC is crap. Maybe I will bring it to a tech to eliminate the noise.

[@christopherjansen5135]

I haven’t played through my MT15 for a while. I’ll crank it up. I know there’s some hiss, but not that crunch sound…from what I remember. Also, I run a Xotic boost in front of the amp and wow, it provides more body to the guitar sound in both clean and overdrive modes on the amp.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Which Xotic boost do you use?

[@zenlandzipline]

Idk about the amp being noisy, but I do know one thing: this guy has a great voice and sings very well. I had to rewind to make sure it wasn’t some kind of trickery. Dayum bro.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Thank you very much! That makes me happy! 🤘❤️

[@zenlandzipline]

@@CarstenStepanowicz you should seriously try to showcase your voice more in your videos. Ive been in the music business for many, many years, in 1 aspect or another. Recording studio, rehearsal rooms, and I used to book bands to play in a club I was managing. So, no, I wasn’t some big shot record producer/A+R guy for a record label, but I’ve been in this game long enough to know talent when I hear it. You have a great singing voice. 20 million guitar players putting out KZbin content makes it easy to get lost in a sea of great (and not so great) players. You have an advantage most of them don’t have: you sing, and you sing well. You can also play very well, but there are so many great players. Most of them can’t sing well. You can. You have an opportunity to separate yourself and stand out above the norm.

[@waynewhelahan1632]

I agree his voice is outstanding

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

❤️🤘

[@saltpeter7429]

I was just watching, and thought much the same thing. I said to myself, " Dude is a hell of a guitar playee, but what band does he sing for?" For real. A good classic metal voice. I would like to hear it. I bought a PRS MT-15 today. Fingers crossed it wont be a noisy mess!!!

[@tgchan]

Is it noisier than jvm410? :)

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

I absolutely know what you mean! The MT-15 definitely sounds huge and can compete with the big boys! 🤘❤️

[@lucasdetex8703]

Before thinking about refund you should bring the amp to a tecnician that can test the tubes. The problem could be as simple as a bad tube, a weird bias value or even a wire close to the power transfomer.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Thanks! I live with it - a noise gate does the trick. The thing that bugs me is that some of the amps are fine and some of the amps are crap. You read plenty of issues regarding the noise floor of the amp. Shouldn’t happen with a huge brand like PRS.

[@lucasdetex8703]

@@CarstenStepanowicz I agree.

[@geronimostade8279]

From all MT15s i had in hand and that were alot (including my own) - they all had the same crackle problem which always got back to flakey preamp tubes. If JJ put PRS in charge to sort them before delivering the amps or if JJ delivered poor quality to the actual amp manufacturer - we will never know. Fact is, at that time the quality control apparently wasnt that great on either side. Alot of MT15 customers told me that they had no issues whatsoever with tubes. But they all bought the amps from the earlier product range stuffed with 6L6 Output. Anyway this is fixable of course but it should be charge of PRS especially while under warranty. New set of tubes will cost you at least 120 Euros (Only preamp). Hope you got that sorted by now and the amp works fine

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Thanks for your comment bro! A noise gate is doing a good job in the fx loop.

[@ericwilliams538]

Some amps are just noisy unfortunately. A good noise gate is an amazing investment. Then the noise from PRS amp, could be piss pour grounding and or wiring job from the factory.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Agree! 🙌❤️ Npise gate is the way to go.

[@tobins6800]

@@CarstenStepanowicz Something sounded microphonic when messing with the loop cables, maybe a place to start?

[@ukguitarnoodle]

That's GENUINE PRS hum dude. Paul approves

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

I wish he'd improve. 🙈

[@johnnyromero3336]

@@CarstenStepanowicz Not at that price point.

[@saltpeter7429]

My Mt-15 died yesterday. Stone dead. Lights out. No sound. Wtf? And the effects loop was loud garbage since I bought it. I bought mine in March and played it MAYBE 10 times. Kick ass sounding amp when it worked. Hope its an easy diagnosis/ fix.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

So sorry bro! Hope it‘s going to be a fast and easy fix! 🤘❤️

[@saltpeter7429]

@@CarstenStepanowicz thank you very much, I hope so as well

[@NikolajChristensen]

Sounds like it's still noisy with the guitar volume control down? How about without the cable plugged in? Insane noise.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

It's noisy all the time until you switch on the stand-by. 😂

[@NikolajChristensen]

@@CarstenStepanowicz hehe what the hell. Also in another environment?

[@dimebagtribute]

I have got one from the 1st series, I never had any noise problem and it always work like a charm... I think there is real QC problem in their chinese factory because the amp is a pure gem when it's assembled correctly!!

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

I agree! 💯🤝

[@BazonBlades]

I feel like I got lucky with my 5881 loaded example. It's no noisier than any other cascading circuit high gain tube amp. And it definitely does not exibit any noise like your example. That is strange. I wonder if it's a problem in the power filtering. I heard originally that the issue was with cable routing near the power section. But it seems like a simple cable reroute would have improved that. It's too bad. That's the only thing that held the MT15 back from being the king.

[@clancytaylor3718]

That is caused by power supply issues usually. I typically plug into a cyberpower voktage regulator ups that cleans power really well compared to my furman

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

It should come with the amp then 😂

[@clancytaylor3718]

@schorschharrison it means your power is dirty and needs to be filtered. Nothing to do with the amp itself. It's like a cake; if you use bad ingredients, the cakes gonna suck. It's not the ovens fault it sucks.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

@@clancytaylor3718 Makes sense. How come that all my other amps don't do it?

[@clancytaylor3718]

@schorschharrison MT15 is pretty high gain circuitry like the 5150. They both amplify dirty power signals tenfold. A power conditioner is needed to get the cleanest signal possible and even then some Furman type units don't cut it.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

@@clancytaylor3718 Got you, thanks for the advice, will try! 🤘❤️

[@ederiel]

I had a similar issues, I sended it back and I got a new one. Same issues. But maybe less noisy than yours. After some research, I have decided to swap 2 tubes (in the preamp section). The phase inverter by an 12AT7/ECC81 and le loop by an 12AU7/ECC82 and all the noise are gone. I use this amp at home and on stage and it is now completely usable. It's very curious that not any amp have this kind of issues. 🧐 I don't understand but this is the way I fixed mine.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Thanks! I'll try it with a gate first. Interesting that some say it's a tube issue and others say it's not. ✌️❤️

[@FilipeReishandmade]

You lowered the gain of the amp with these mods, thats why...

[@ederiel]

@@FilipeReishandmade Ho just a bit, it's not noticeable 🙂 It still have plenty of gain, and I play extreme music It worked for me, I just shared my experience

[@FilipeReishandmade]

@@ederiel yes, this circuit have plenty of gain ! So even when you lower using pre amp tubes with less gain its still have a lot. Im not complaining or ranting on you comment by the way...

[@ianpannell4714]

I love my mt15!!! The clean channel is awesome. I run my my Mesa Boogie Vtwin pedal with it and oh my god!!!!!!!

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Awesome! 🤘❤️

[@TitusKing101]

Would you recommend this over the DSL20? I like both but having a hard time deciding…

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

If you want a U.S. sounding heavy metal amp, get the MT-15. Otherwise get the DSL-20. Extremely pedal friendly amp! It‘s a tough decision bro, I feel you! 🫶

[@TitusKing101]

Thanks man! Been on the fence about these two as they both sound incredible! I have been off tube amps for a while and playing solid states old Peaveys and such but looking for a tube amp with good gain that’s not gonna kill my neighbours..👍 Thanks so much for the content you put out, extremely useful info from a European perspective, plus your playing is amazing!🤘

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

@@TitusKing101 Thank you so much! That makes me happy! 🤘

[@richy749]

Try a Morley Humno Noise Eliminator. I have tried all different kinds of things to solve this issue but from my experience with my MT15 it comes from a cycle hum that the circuit is producing. It’s not always as pronounced but given the amount of gain this circuit provides it’s a common issue found in most high gain amps. As some have mentioned even the infamous 5150 suffers with this.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Thanks for the info Richy! I'm using a dort cheap noise gate pedal currently and it eliminates the noise perfectly well!! 🤘❤️

[@metaljonesy]

Faulty tube in the pre/phase/fx loop somewhere, mine had the same. I swapped a few out in sequence and found it to be a failed V1 pre tube

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Thanks, will check! 🤘❤️

[@94SexyStang]

The one I demo'ed also had some buzz going on!.....I feel like the circuit design might be a bit old school Raw and not "refined", that's why it's got noise....... It really takes very little to get noise or feedback...tube amps are like a giant Microphone that will pick up the slightest thing that is off, one of the Tubes might not be perfectly snug, could be a hairline crack in a solder joint, or capacitor or component that is not up to spec, could be frigging dust or the slightest connection problem too, Lol.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Or lack of quality control.

[@pwnEdge1]

Amp sounds great ,but ya , the noise is a little much and if you put a boost 😳. Is V1 preamp tube have a shield, maybe a higher grade tube in V1. Marshall cab with 75’s my favorite. I indulge in too many cappuccino🤪. Great video’s my friend 🤘🏻🎸😎

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

You can never have too much cappuccino! 😁🙌 Right now, I'm taming the noise beast with a noise gate and it works ok. If I have time and money, I'll take it to a tech.🤘

[@icemanmusic44]

Bro when you started singing I stood up holy shit!

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Hahaha, thanks bro, I appreciate it! 🤘❤️

[@Dang2Production]

That lewitt mic sounds really awesome!! Definitely beats out the shure mic IMO.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

The Lewitt is a miracle mic indeed! 🙂🤘

[@HesheR82]

I have purchased red tube socket shields to maybe help but that's ganna be so hard to install :( need to get to other side of motherboard. I swapped the Fx loop tube and maybe helped abit. I think lots of things come into play with this amps noise. Power supply,location,guitar location,what's on in room when it's on lol. Perfect placement and conditions matter maybe try that. And bonus when it catches radio stations lol backing tracks ! Included lol

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Hahaha, I always enjoy a good backing track from radio stations 😂 I'm happy with it at the moment. I'm running a noise gate in the loop and that does the trick. 🤘❤️

[@HesheR82]

@@CarstenStepanowicz I guess a 15 watt with as much preamp tubes as a 100 watt and full size power amp tubes would create noise lol I think it was designed with intention of a noise gate to be used on lead channel lol maybe they should have said in manual a noise gate is needed.

[@PeterMoore350]

Not good! At 4:19 ish that noise? I had that on my H&K GrandMeister Deluxe 40 before eventually it stopped working in any of the powersoak modes. I’ve only had it 18 months and really only been using it regularly since March this year. Thomann said valves/tubes only have a 6 month warranty so as im not able to work due to health issues im unable to afford to buy a matched pair of EL84 valves. Cest la vie Cheers from NZ 😎🎸🤘

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Oh man, that's messed up. Have you tried a gate in the fx loop?

[@PeterMoore350]

@@CarstenStepanowicz no it’s a valve failure. It works it you deselect any of the powersoak modes and go into full 40W mode but yeah im in an apartment. I actually read the manual 🤣🍻 and it’s very informative and describes the problem. I liked johnny Cash at 13:12 hehe. Sounds like a decent amp. Local shop here in NZ has one but yeah buying food etc is my main priority atm 😎

[@PeterMoore350]

@@CarstenStepanowicz do you have Solar guitars? I only just saw your channel tonight (subscribed) but haven’t checked your past vids yet. I’ve 5 Solar guitars all 1.6 various shapes etc. for me it’s the perfect neck. And so you like one style- say an E1.6 - and you already have a V-.6 etc ? Then you already know what the neck is gonna be like. I also like PRS. I have 1. Tremonti SE Standard single cut. Neck is similar to Solar necks. PRS call that one “pattern thin”. Played others at local PRS dealer yeah nah 🤣 the necks vary too much. So PRS with pattern thin necks but TBH I’ve got a list of 10 Solars I want coz why not ? 🤣😂😎🎸🤘

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

@@PeterMoore350 Thanks man, appreciate it. I've never played a Solar but met Ola at Guitar Summit this year. 🙌 PRS guitars have also never been on my radar too much. I like the super strat shape.

[@alif499]

I would recommend testing it at a friends house. Could be the power that’s creating that white noise.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Tried it at home and at my rehearsal space. All my other amps are quiet. If you bring this thing live, you can't change the venue because the amp is picky with the power. ✌️

[@ZeGlob1]

No it’s definitely a defective amp.. mine had that issue as well.. replaced it and the noise was gone

[@portuguesebeer5069]

It reminds me a Peavey 6505Mh i had that also made mutch noise, perhaps not as mutch as that, but was not good. Cheers from Portugal 🤘🍺🇵🇹

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

My 6505MH is dead silent 😂. Quality control doesn't seem to be the most important thing in that price range I guess. 🇵🇹❤️🤘

[@g.e.a.2569]

I have always thought that most of these high-gain amplifiers need a noise gate. If this works to make the amplifier silent, then I don’t know what the real problem would be.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

I absolutely agree with you. Some amps are noisier than others, no doubt about that. But if it sounds like a gang of mice slug out an MMA fight inside the amp even at bedroom level, it's not what I'd expect when it has a PRS label on it.

[@g.e.a.2569]

@@CarstenStepanowicz 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@mrchrisbeaver]

That sounds great, do all these MT 15s have this noise problem?

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Thanks! The first one I had was super quiet for the first couple of months and then started to make noise like a vacuum cleaner from 1980. The one right now was noisy since day 1 but can be tamed with a noise gate. I guess it's a bit hit and miss with these amps. 🙂 They do sound fantastic though! 🤘

[@pramotesoongkitboon795]

Thank you for sound review. I'm use this Ibanez models too.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

My pleasure! 🙂 You have a great guitar! 🤘😁

[@Ruinwalkers]

Sounds just like a bad tube. Swap in a fresh preamp tube for the lead channel and report back. I’ve had this same noise happen due to faulty/noisy preamp tubes in an Archon.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Was it a bad tube here as well? kzbin.info/www/bejne/pYCpgK2Yl7GjgZIsi=9i3HRZOWBAdzHaqC

[@Ruinwalkers]

@@CarstenStepanowicz Definitely could be. That windy sound is usually a tube. Modern tubes can be hit and miss. Golden rule for tube amps is to make sure you have a backup set of tubes.

[@matt926uk1]

My blackstar has that same rustling sound, never figured out what causes it? I’ve tried new valves which made no difference. Weirdly it’s only there when playing through a cab but it’s not there when I use it through my load box and ir’s

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

I agree, it's not present when I plug the amp into my Captor. 🤔

[@matt926uk1]

interesting 🤔, anyone have any ideas what it is?@@CarstenStepanowicz

[@chrisglass6891]

​@@matt926uk1 I can't find a schematic for this amp but the sound of the unwanted noise sounds like a bad transistor breaking down. I know this is a tube amp but it possible there is transistors used in the effects loop.

[@matt926uk1]

@@chrisglass6891 ok thanks

[@matt926uk1]

@@chrisglass6891 ok, thanks. yeah the blackstar has transistors providing some of the gain.

[@alexolvera7693]

I have the PRS MT100 it was so noisy I returned it two days later, even noise gate didn't help

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Oh, I thought they would fix that on the 100. 😕 I need to get my hands on one of those and try it out! Did you like the sound/character of the amp apart from the noise of course?

[@dalejacksonmo]

I have same problems with mine even worse with eq in the loop..can't turn it up past 3 on high gain...love the amp but it makes a heck of a swirling loud pitch with mxr 6 band in the loop...but not in front...crazy...loop plays my zakk chorus decent...I live in the country and love to crank it but it really only plays great with volume at 4 and lower

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Not much happening after 4 volume wise. It could be easily one of the best toaster sized amps, if it wasn‘t noisy as hell! 😅 Many folks commented that changing the fx loop tube was their remedy. ✌️

[@TheHeroJourneys]

For me a power soak completely changed my opinion of this amp. Apparently this is due to the signal wire routing internal to the chassis.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

I agree this might be the problem. What power soak do you use?

[@TheHeroJourneys]

@@CarstenStepanowicz honestly I just use a cheap Bugera PS-1. Some people complain about a loss of dynamics but for me I was able to bring so much more out of the amp without worrying about the hair-trigger Lead Master Volume knob blowing out my eardrums. Note: that particularly power soak eats more power when you turn the knob counter-clockwise, took me a week of disappointment until I experimented and figured that out

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

@@TheHeroJourneys I'm using a Captor Two Notes occasionally. Quite happy with the sound as well. 🤘

[@TheHeroJourneys]

@@CarstenStepanowicz also I took my PRS MT15 head against the ones in a Guitar Center, I compared with original 6L6, newer 5881, and 6L6 swapped in for 5881…… the noise floor was the same for all, it’s tolerable with nothing plugged into the amp. I then stuck a simple 1/4” instrument cable Jack into the input socket and the noise exploded the same way for all of the amps. This is inherent to the design. I was using a Noise Filter on the input and the loop and wasn’t quite getting the result I wanted, but the power soak I think resolves all of the issues with this amp, and also let’s me drive the clean channel hard or use as a pedal platform. LOVE the amp now

[@jimlansa7098]

just use the gate :),the lewitt mic sound insane.more dream theater licks please!!! btw your are a great guitar player and a great singer

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Thank you so much! Yeah, a gate will do the trick. The Lewitt is amazingly cool. Just throw it front of any speaker and raise the fader! 🤘❤️

[@michaelgallegos8811]

I am glad u got the Amp replaced Carsten. 👍

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Thanks bro! 🙌

[@SGuy715]

Dont think I've heard this through T75's before. I kinda like it better than mine going through a Vintage 30. I think it gets too fizzy and nasally in the upper mid range with the V30

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

T-75's deserve more love! 🤘😂 The amp sounds killer with V30's as well! 🙂❤️

[@gravelrocks5588]

Mine has no noise other then standard hum but I use fortin zuul best noise gate ever takes care of an noise from any amp totally quiet

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

The Fortin Zuul is amazing! I could tame the MT-15 with a dirt cheap Donner Noise Killer pedal. 🙂

[@luminoxx5150]

I have that same Ibanez! Gotta say you have great taste!

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Likewise buddy! 😁🙌

[@sipnscoot3049]

I’ve had one for 3 years now. Mine doesn’t do that at all? I’m wondering if you need a ground lift or some kinda of current conditioning. It’s definitely something with your current. I don’t think it’s the amp.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Noise floor is fine with all of my other amps. You think it's the current?

[@sipnscoot3049]

Does the noise go away when it’s switched to 7 watts?

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

@@sipnscoot3049 I will check!

[@sipnscoot3049]

@@CarstenStepanowicz if not than there might be a capacitor or some bad shielding. Take it to a real amp tech. Or get a hold of PRS. They stand by there products.

[@brianpark492]

I own one. Just bought a cheap Donner Noise Killer and Presto !

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Haha, same! I'm not kidding! 😂 The green one right? Works like a charme!

[@brianpark492]

Yes Guy.🤣 Great pedal. I set mine about 11:30 and hard mode.Swith up anyway.🤘

[@Nizodizo]

The white noise seems to go away when you hit the noise gate. Could the sound be coming from your guitar?

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

There was no noise gate.

[@user-iw1sd6bx7r]

That cracklin sounds like a tube, New tubes arent always good. This amp is on my radar.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Get one! The sound is outstanding. I keep my fingers crossed that you'll get a good one. 🤘🙂

[@joehertel8846]

Mine has no noise and ive had it for about 3-4 years id really just try sending it back and getting it replaced because this amp is yhe one amp that im actually satisfied with and ive been through a fair number of them , in fact its also the only amp ive used that i like better than my massive pedal collection i think you just got a bad one and the company did nothing to actually repair the problem id bet that its actually something to do with the power going in to it perhaps its a mix up at the factory and you have one with parts designated for the u.s. models and its being over volted by the european power possibly

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Thank you! I've already done that and this is a new one. 😂

[@joehertel8846]

@schorschharrison oh dear , well all I can say it's worth trying to get one that works properly although since the 100 just dropped maybe just wait for that. It's a shame it's such a good little amp when it works as intended I'm so sorry this happened to you twice

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

@@joehertel8846 No worries. I'm happy for you that the one you have is working properly! Literally everybody I know who owns or owned an MT-15 has a story to tell about it. 😂 If it wasn't sounding so good, I hadn't kept it. When I use a gate in the fx loop it's quiet. I'm ok with it. Pretty hyped about the MT-100. It'll hit the shelves here in Germany late December hopefully. 🤘❤️

[@FenderMarko47]

Are all the tubes correctly seated bro? If so it sounds like you've got a dud somewhere down the line.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

I haven't checked yet. I unboxed the amp, drove to my rehearsal room and recorded the video. ✌️

[@FenderMarko47]

@@CarstenStepanowicz my experience with prs amps has been very good, we'd be interested to see what the issue is when you discover it because I really want you to enjoy the MT15 bro.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

@@FenderMarko47 I'll let you know! 🤘

[@marleysheredder]

Mine is not that noisy. Replace effects loop Tube might be enough tough

[@MarcAndreLevesque]

That noise is not normal ... bad tube? Sure sounds like it ... or there is a problem with the bias resistors, botched soldering job? This definetly comes from the power section, that is for sure.

[@FEVERDREAM1983]

I watched a video on youtube thst im sure is pretty easy to find where an amp repair dude fixed it by moving some of the wires around inside so who the fuck really knows. Its an awesome lunchbox amp simply because its got the 6l6s in there but at the same pricepoint and compact design as other lunchbox heads and i use a noise gate anyways. Im stuck between the 5150iiiLBXS and this bad boy and im at the fuck it stage or really close to it. The 6l6s just have way more of a punch than the el34s.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

I haven‘t tried the 5150iiiLBXS but I think you‘ll be happier with the MT-15! 🤘❤️

[@paisteplayer1040]

I have a noise suppressor in my loop with an EQ, delay, reverb.. Its kills most of the noise the amp makes..

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Will try that! 🙌

[@paisteplayer1040]

@@CarstenStepanowicz i usually run one in the loop and in the front end too..

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

What noise suppressor do you use?

[@paisteplayer1040]

@@CarstenStepanowicz I have several decimators, boss ns2, mxr smart gate.. Even those basic small $25 dollar ones work well..

[@TheOtherJohnBrowne]

I am not very picky with regards to high gain amp noise floor... but this would annoy me!

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Yeah, that's why I'm really torn. 😂✌️

[@dver4624]

Isn't there a MT100 in the works? I wonder if they'll fix the issue on that amp.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

It's been in the works for a couple of years afaik 🙂

[@dver4624]

@@CarstenStepanowicz probably keep running into noise problems 😬

[@jhmusic1]

The hum on the MT15s is from the power supply section being too close to the signal path of the preamp. It's kind of inevitable with how small the amp is and how much space the preamp board takes up. The MT100 is gonna be much larger so it shouldn't be an issue on that amp. Also, the crackling sound from the amp in this video is just a bad preamp tube

[@DJ_Markus_Behrens]

Great. But the noise is very crazy.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Indeed bro, indeed. ❤

[@kennethdarlington]

Is it noisy in other power plugs also? Could something like HUMNO help?

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

It is, yes. Haven't tried the HUMNO but a noise gate in the fx loop will fix the noise issue. ✌️

[@johnyang799]

​@@CarstenStepanowiczDoes noise gate at the input fix the noise?

[@nicackley4493]

Sounds like cross talk within the circuit, possibly something isn't grounded the best. Or the tube socket is the culprit.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Thanks for the remote diagnosis 🙂 I'll check these things in the near future. Currently the amp works fine with a noise gate in the loop. 🤘

[@berndkiltz]

Carsten, that noise is totally unacceptable. Send it back, get your money, buy from a decent company!

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

You're right bro, I should. 🤘❤️

[@RATTL3R186]

A high gain amp makes noise. Oh the horror. 5150s evhs stuff mess they all make noise. Must be some super secret German amps that are silent but make Valhalla shake

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

@@RATTL3R186 ENGL 😂 Seriously though I have a 6505 which isn't noisy at all compared to my MT15. The first MT15 I had wasn't also this noisy, it started all of a sudden after a couple of months. Trust me I'm not picky when it comes to noisy amps but the MT15 without a noise gate is unusable.

[@domg7616]

That's line noise. Power outlet. You need a line conditioner. In the US is qhat that's called. Every tube amp needs a line conditioner. Furhman.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Why don't I need one for my other amps?

[@jdkerrmusic]

Very informative - thank you for posting. On a side note, you remind me of Scott Ian. Keep the great videos coming, my friend!

[@finishin.my.coffee8780]

I was thinking the same, like Scott before he shaved his head.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Thank you! Gotta work on my beard though 🙂🙌

[@jeffhamk]

You must be unlucky with the noise My mt15 has near to no noise and it’s 3 years old. Not the noise you are getting. Maybe could be your electricity point, eg interference other electronic devices.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

The amp is noisy everywhere. 😂

[@Nitronium]

No, YOU are a chunky baby, BABY! Haha we love you

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Haha, thank you so much! 😁❤️🙌

[@defectdesigner1]

Profile it and use without the noise? :)

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

That's a plan! 😂🙌

[@TomislavGracakPhotography]

Bis du sicher dass sie dir nicht die alte Amp zurückgeschickt haben?

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Der war lauter 😂

[@willman100]

Killer tones though.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Thank you! ❤️🙌 Yes, the amp sounds absolutely crushing! 🫡

[@TarshishedCactus]

Mine doesnt do that sorry to see that :(

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

The first one they sent was indeed quieter. Let's see if it gets worse, after a couple hours of operating time.

[@manuelaguilar8060]

You funny, man. \m/ Noise gate at input, send, or receive? o_O

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

@@manuelaguilar8060 Noise gate in the loop did the trick for me! 🤘❤️

[@ruhrpottflo2249]

Oh Mann wie ärgerlich. Aber es gibt hier und da ein paar fähige Tüftler die den Amp toll modden. Der liebe @lukzriffs hat so einen. Der macht kein spinnefachs und läuft super ruhig . Aber so klingt der „kleine“ prs echt göttlich 👍🏻🤘🏻🤘🏻🤘🏻

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Jo, wir kennen den fähigen Tüftler sogar zufällig beide 😂✌️

[@roba7737]

I dont have the noise problem with mine.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

@@roba7737 Lucky you! 🤘❤️

[@BadKarma8276]

Kalte Löstelle(n) und Signal führende Kabel mit den Tube Heater Kabeln mit Kabelbindern bis kurz vorm Kabelbruch zusammengezurrt….easy fix

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Checke ich, danke! 🤘❤️

[@mkbmj]

I rode the PRS bandwagon for a while. Then I dumped all his shit and life got good.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

😂😂😂

[@larrydj549]

I think its possessed but killer gain sound

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

That's why I have a love/hate relationship with it 😁🙌

[@Nick-72]

Ins't Noise...Just Some U.F.O is Trying to contact you for an Interstellar Gig 😅😅🎸🎸🤟🤟

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

😂😂😂🙌

[@spleantrampoline]

I get it had a bad tube or a dirty tube socket.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Is everything ok with it now?

[@Aeon_Electronics]

Selbst bei dem neuen Ersatzverstärker ist diese ART des Geräusches nicht normal. Rauschen ja, ok - aber das klingt eher als ob da noch viel mehr im Argen ist.

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Ich hab ein Gate im fx loop und das klappt soweit ganz gut. Du hast aber recht, da ist noch mehr im Argen 😂 PRS scheint damit ja gut Leben zu können. Die Kiste klingt halt obergeil. 🤷‍♀️

[@AlfieMerriman]

Would you purchase this amp now ?

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

@@AlfieMerriman Yes! 🙌

[@AlfieMerriman]

@@CarstenStepanowicz do you think the issues have been fixed since the first release of the amp ? Looking to get one next week !! Also !! Thank you for your videos !!!!!

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

@@AlfieMerriman Glad you like my stuff! Well, it‘s hit and miss tbh. Hope yours will be flawless. It‘s a great amp! 🤘❤️

[@sidewaysrain7609]

That is a preamp tube

[@Capitan_Chaos]

That's not normal I'd definitely send it back.

[@fabianvasquezjr8852]

Fx loop unsheided, plug in 1/4 patch into return to close loop I fixed my noise issue with a boss ns-2 seen a video of a guy doing some rewireing undoing the wire ring harness and resoldering some wires

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

I "solved" it with a noise gate as well! 😄👐

[@fabianvasquezjr8852]

​@@CarstenStepanowiczI'm trying the HX stomp in the fx loop of the MT15 but don't have a clue how to integrate the boss ns-2?!? But so far the gate on the Hx stomp seems to be working on noise suppression

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Make sure to have the NS-2 before your delays and reverbs. Otherwise place it where it feels best for you!

[@marshallohio5512]

Try tube testing .. Replace tubes .. Not resolved ? Return amp and move on ... Mass Production !! Throw away circuit board!!!

[@CarstenStepanowicz]

Will do! 🫡

[@marshallohio5512]

@@CarstenStepanowicz absolutely.. I've been a guitar/amp tech since the 70s .. Music equipment today is about numbers not quality ... Cheers ..