Amp covers

[Securb]

I was just given some advice on amp/dust covers that makes some practical sense. I was told since most covers are made of plastic they trap moisture and can cause condensation in the amp. Especially in a basement over a long time. This can affect the speakers, electronic and even the wood. It was suggested I just use old moving blankets to cover my amps because they breath. I am wondering if this guy is overly paranoid or if this make sense.

 

[Diego]

Re: Amp covers

It makes a lot of sense. Sealed synthetics usually encourage condensation at certain conditions, and we know what that does.

An ex of mine had an Ibanez GIO that she asked me to fix. Took it out of the gigbag it had been in for years and the thing was rusty as hell. Had to polish the frets, bridge and replace the pots. The neck could have been warped but I can't remember.

Guess what? She'd put the guitar in a plastic bag inside the gigbag. And I've never seen a guitar as rusty as that, and haven't ever since. So it makes even more sense now to me.

 

[Darg1911]

Re: Amp covers

Mine are covered with two sheets. Keeps the cat from wanting to use the cabinets as nail sharpeners. In a humid area, I think the guy may be onto something with the vinyl covers trapping moisture. Since mine are in an air conditioned space, if I wasn't a cheap bastard I'd buy proper covers.

 

[autologic]

Re: Amp covers

I've always heard the same exact thing about car covers, so I'm sure there is probably some truth to it.

 

[allbutromeo]

Re: Amp covers

I've always heard the same exact thing about car covers, so I'm sure there is probably some truth to it.

I can attest to this, I had my motorcycle under a cover all winter, and most of the chrome and aluminum had corrosion on it when I took the cover off this spring

 

[Securb]

Re: Amp covers

Looks like it is the moving blankets for me for long term storage. I can see the covers working going back and forth to gigs. That is all I will use them for.

 

[LesStrat]

Re: Amp covers

I have a Peavey cover (bought for a Bandit 112S) that I use for my Celtic Franklin. It is not vinyl, and seems to protect the amp k:

 

[ItsaBass]

Re: Amp covers

IMO, you want a padded fabric cover, not one made of plasticy sheet material. (It's the same with car covers.) And this is what all decent quality amp covers are made of IME. Only the ultra cheesy/cheap ones are vinyl.

 

[Securb]

Re: Amp covers

IMO, you want a padded fabric cover, not one made of plasticy sheet material. (It's the same with car covers.) And this is what all decent quality amp covers are made of IME. Only the ultra cheesy/cheap ones are vinyl.

The OEM Marshall covers are vinyl. You would think thick canvas with some type of water resistant coating would be the way to go. I had to move my amp last night in the rain. I was not too thrilled. I think I am going to buy a set just for gigging to provide protection from the elements and to prevent the tolex from rips. The friggin thieves want $39 for a standard cover and $79 for a DSL cover. I don't think my head is twice as big as a JVM. I might head down to the local quilting club to see what the ladies can come up with for me.

 

[ItsaBass]

Re: Amp covers

OEM or accessory covers from the big companies (like Fender and Marshall) are no good. Mesa's are halfway decent. The could use some more padding and bottom straps, but at least they aren't sheet vinyl. No amp covers are good for use in the rain. Cases are good for that.

If all you have is a head, I would get a nice padded gig bag for it. They are expensive, but short of a road case, they will treat your head better than anything else, and they're fairly convenient. When it rains or snows, wrap it in a 55 gallon Hefty bag. Bring a small tarp for the cab.

 

[JOLLY]

Re: Amp covers

Makes sense to me.

 

[Demanic]

Re: Amp covers

If one purchases an expensive head, to not get an appropriate case for it seems a folly.

 

[Securb]

Re: Amp covers

If one purchases an expensive head, to not get an appropriate case for it seems a folly.

I looked into road cases they came in around $179 vs the Marshall cover for $79. I couldn't find any gig bags with a quick search I will have to start digging. I did take a clue from ItsaBass and added a couple of trash bags to the gig bag.

 

[ken361]

Re: Amp covers

My girl friend makes mine when I had a fender I just used theres, during the day I just lay it on top of the amp to keep dust off. My Marshall combo since im home all day now I just use a homemade Engl cover she made me a few years ago and lay it on top then I use the another cover she made when I transport it. Some fabric stores sell a tolax type material that can be stitched together so you can make your own with some slight padding.