American Amps run in the Uk

6stringerguy

New member
Im thinking of replacing my current amp with a mesa mark v 25 however the mark v 25 cost twice as much in the uk as a used American model, would the only change needed be a fuse changing or would the entire transformer need to be changed?
 
Re: American Amps run in the Uk

the uk version has a different power transformer or is at least wired differently if the us tranny has 230v taps
 
Re: American Amps run in the Uk

the uk version has a different power transformer or is at least wired differently if the us tranny has 230v taps

So does and can the entire transformer be changed, does the fuse need changing or is a simple step down 230 to 110v transformer (if so what wattage is required)?
 
Re: American Amps run in the Uk

the fuse is easy and cheap to swap if it needs to be. the transformer can be changed but a good transformer can be expensive then you need to have someone swap it if you aren't comfortable doing it yourself and im sure you void the warranty. there are step down transformers but ive not spent enough time with one to be able to suggest that confidently
 
Re: American Amps run in the Uk

I know that I have seen several different amps that have a covered switch on the back that changes the power required from 110 to 220. I'd imagine that this is done to accommodate the change from US to Europe.

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Re: American Amps run in the Uk

I wonder what (if any) impact on tone will result from 50 Hz vs 60 Hz?
The link I posted above referenced step-down transformers, but neither do I have any experience with them.
Possibly THIS is your easiest and least expensive option. You can verify it w/ Thomann.
 
Re: American Amps run in the Uk

They seem easy to purchase but what does the wattage rating mean?
I'm assuming it is the maximum rated wattage that can be powered by the device before overload and subsequent failure....somewhat like the wattage ratings on speakers. In other words, look at the back of the amp where it states the maximum wattage draw (not the amp's rated output) and as long as the stepdown transformer meets or exceeds this, it's a proper application.
 
Re: American Amps run in the Uk

Might be worth calling (or e-mailing) the Mesa Factory customer service reps to see what they recommend.

BTW, the Mark V amps are fantastic. I have the V:25 stack, a V:35 combo and a V:90 combo. Worth every penny.

Good luck!

Bill
 
Re: American Amps run in the Uk

They seem easy to purchase but what does the wattage rating mean?

I'm assuming it is the maximum rated wattage that can be powered by the device before overload and subsequent failure....somewhat like the wattage ratings on speakers. In other words, look at the back of the amp where it states the maximum wattage draw (not the amp's rated output) and as long as the stepdown transformer meets or exceeds this, it's a proper application.
Looks like THIS model (300VA) is the recommended one for the Boogie Mk V. But, it shouldn't be a problem using the larger (500VA) model, if the smaller one isn't available....just a bit more expensive.
 
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