Re: Harp Commander Out

["G." <gigs@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

<quote>
Date: Sun, 31 Aug 2003 09:50:15 -0500
From: "TD" <sixtiesjazz@xxxxxxxxx>
Subject: Harp Commander Out

I've put the Harp Commander at the top of my Christmas list. My only
question to those of you who already own one is whether it is more useful to
have the XLR out or the 1/4 out?
/tim
</quote>

Hi there Tim,
I now have two Harp Commanders and use them in varying configurations.

As you know the Harp Commander has two output jacks, one guitar level output
1/4" jack.  The line out signal is the one you have an option with.

The XLR jack on the regular commander models is not balanced, its unbalanced
line level. - whether you get the XLR connection or the 1/4" jack its still the
same signal.  To put a finer point on it you don't get the advantages of a
balanced signal normally associated with XLR connections and in my opinion this
just makes life more awkward.
My suggestion is get the 1/4" Line out, and use it with the ubiquitous guitar
lead.

The line out (XLR or 1/4" connector) is intended to be used with PAs, Power
Amps, your computer, stereo, into your video, and works into other amplifiers.
With the XLR jack you'll always be looking for an XLR to 1/4" plug to use it for
anything other than a PA or mixing board.  With the 1/4" jack its cheaper &
simpler to make use of it.

Having said all this, Ron has expressed intentions of offering another Commander
model which is designed to work entirely with Balanced signals, mainly intended
for studio use with balanced XLR input and output, it'll cost a bit more because
more will go into to it.  Great for vocal mics with harmonica.  You could think
about this if you wanted to use a ribbon mic like something from BeyerDynamic.
He's also designed a Commander for brass instruments (sax & horn).

He's recently updated his website and it looks like theres been some exciting
developments recently.  I really like the look of his real tube preamp which can
be switched between the tones associated with 40's tube amps or to the tones
associated with 50's tube amps.  Complete with overdrive and many features found
in his other commander models.
Its only US$395.
http://www.holmeseng.com/

Cheers,
G.