MkIII Going In For Service, What To Do?

[skelt101]

Hi folks,
My MkIII Blue Stripe is probably due for a service! I bought it used, so have no idea of the history. At the very least, I would like to get the basic service and R2 mod. But, what about the + or ++ mods? Can the stock get close to the mods using non-traditional settings, or is there more to it, e.g. the feel of the amp? Can the + get into Metallica territory? Will the ++ obliterate R1 cleans? There seems to be conflicting reports on the interwebs. I've spoken to Mike B. a little via email, but don't want to take away too much of his time. Those of you with experience, what say you? Thanks for any help!

 

[xdg999]

I have 5 III+'s that Mike serviced and modded. He just finished number 6. I picked up Mark III Coliseum yesterday that I'm gonna send in for service and the III+\R2 mods. The + mod gets close to a c+ and the R2 mod makes R2 usable. Which is the main reason I like the Mark III's. I spend a lot more time with my Mark III's than my c+'s, The III+\R2 is $200 directly to Mike B. I had him install a pentode/triode switch in #6. That cost $125. Service and shipping back home is usually between $350 and $400.

 

[skelt101]

Thanks for the info, xdg999! Do you find yourself ever wanting for gain with the 3+? Have any experience with the 3++? Would the pentode/triode switch work in a SimulClass? Luckily, I live close enough to the factory that I should be able to just drop it off!

 

[Firefight]

The +/++ mod will not effect the clean channel. Why not do it if it's switchable, no reason not to. Also it's not unusable gain that makes the amp unstable fyi

 

[xdg999]

No experience with a III++. The III+ has enough gain for me. You'd have to ask Mike B. about the pentode/triode switch for a Simul. I have Mike reduce the brightness on my Simuls like the early c+ Simul's.