Is it okay if I don't bypass the loop?

[peapod]

I have an older 2 channel Dual Rectifier from 96-97 and I noticed that if I don't bypass the loop, I can use the "loop active master" knob as an additional volume. I found this to be very useful because it gives me more control over my volume but I can't tell if it's affecting my tone or not. I called mesa and someone told me that it should be transparent but I was wondering if anyone else could tell me about it.

EDIT: While I have this thread up, I Was wondering if el34s are closer to el84s than the 6l6s?. I used to have a Mesa boogie f30 and I loved the tone so much, would el34s at least bring me closer? or does running different tubes not make that much of a difference? Are they all just apples and oranges?

 

[Fixxer6671]

I think the trade off is using a foot controller or not. Thats how my TOV works.

I never used a foot controller on my pre 500...... :twisted:

 

[peapod]

I'm sorry, I don't really understand.

 

[MusicManJP6]

It is more than OK to not bypass the loop. You are not harming the amp in any way. You can add gain on some amps by cranking the FX loop mix knob with nothing in the loop. If it works for you then have it at! No harm can be done.

 

[peapod]

K I'm just asking because I don't know if it should effect the tone. I feel like I can hear a difference but I'm not sure how much of that is psychological. whats the point of the bypass anyways?

 

[MusicManJP6]

K I'm just asking because I don't know if it should effect the tone. I feel like I can hear a difference but I'm not sure how much of that is psychological. whats the point of the bypass anyways?

There is a noticeable difference in tone. Most will agree that the tone is better with the loop bypassed. It decreases the amount of components your signal travels through when bypassed and gives you a little better tone. I love my delay too much to be able to bypass the FX loop (if my amps offered that option)...