[Harp-L] Volume Control

[George Brooks <gbrooksvt@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

I play amplified harp in a band.  I used to play with bullet mics with 
VCs.  I have heard that VCs degrade the tone, but I don't know why, or 
even if it's true.  Possibly some do and some don't.  I was told that I 
would be better off tone-wise using a volume pedal, like an Ernie Ball 
but, again, I don't know if this was sound advice.  I have long since 
switched to vintage Shure 545s with an on-off switch.  I honestly do 
not miss the VC.  I *certainly* don't miss it enough to mod the mic or 
deal with the extra length that an add-on VC would entail.

Having said that, I would not want to play amplified without either a 
VC or an on-off switch.

Let us know how it goes with the new Greg Heumann VC and especially 
whether you perceive any difference in tone.

George

========================

Well I guess that IS the question I was trying to ask. Why would you 
_not_
want to use some kind of volume control? So I'm asking. Is there anyone 
out
there who plays amplified harp in a band that chooses not to use a VC 
of some
kind for their mic and why?

I use one most of the time and about half of my mics have them built in 
but
I can't help feeling that it compromises my sound in some way. I just 
recently
got a "BlowsMeAway" from Greg Heumann and I can't wait to try it in a 
gig
situation.