Nomad 45 / 55

[Chondropython]

I am looking at a used Nomad 45 & 55. This will be my first tube amp, and I really don't know what to look for to make sure they are in good working order. Any tips? Also, I've done a google search for reviews and found that many people bring up reliability problems (tubes burning out quickly, etc). What are your experiences with these models?

Also, what are the differences between these two models other than the wattage?

Thanks for any help!

 

[Chondropython]

I should mention that both of these are the 1x12 models

 

[Monsta-Tone]

I haven't had a Nomad in a lot of years, but here are some good things to look for:

1. Do all functions work on the amp? I wouldn't worry about the Slave out, but I would definitely make sure all channels work and change when they should.

2. Ask how old the tubes are. If the tubes are original or if the owner can't remember when they were replaced, you should count on purchasing a new set.

3. Ask if the amp has had any maintenance or repairs. This is not necessarily a bad thing.

4. Look in the back and see how dirty the cabinet is. Also look for holes in the speaker and missing reverb tank.

5. Run the amp through it's paces and try every knob in every channel. Scratchy pots are ok, but if they do not work or if the sound cuts out at a certain point, then you may have to negotiate a technician visit into the price.

6. Take a delay or EQ pedal with you and try the loop out. Don't use a distortion or compressor pedal, it won't sound very good. Take your own cords too. I passed up on an amp a long time ago then found out later that it was just a faulty cord.

7. Use the footswitch and make sure that it doesn't freeze up and that it changes all functions properly. If the footswitch does not appear to be working, make sure that the knob on the back is set to 'Footswitch.' If it is, then try changing the amp's channels without the footswitch. This will let you know if the problem is with the amp or the cord/footswitch.

8. Play it loud for at least 20 minutes. This will hopefully let you know if there are any heat issues.

9. Inspect the cabinet. Some dings are expected, but make sure that there are no cracks or separation at the seams.


Hope this helps!
Andy

 

[nomad45]

hey there. i have the nomad 45(hence the name) lol, and if i had to choose between the 45 or 55 i would go 45 again.
i have had friends with the 100 and 55 and they all sold theirs but they say that my 45 sounds great compared to theirs.
45 also is the only nomad with EL84, so its warmer sounding. I think it is also the only nomad with the "extreme switch". which i cant really explain what it does besides makes it sound better than normal when engaged.

The reverbs on nomads are weak, but can be modded to be awesome. (i started doing this mod my self last night, and it is super easy. just involves piggybacking resistors to take away resistance in the reverb section.)
People also complain about nomads being muddy sounding. and they are. BUT there is also a mod that can be done by your self that takes the mud away! I did this one also and it literally was like someone took a thick quilt off my amp. the clarity was finally there! (i could send you the link)

after reading tons on nomads i have realized that the 45s and 100 are the most popular. 100 because of the 5band EQ and the 45 because of the extreme switch and EL84's.

I run a weber attentuator with my 45 and its awesome. im totally content with my sound. other guitarists always complement my tone.

hope i didnt forget anything (probably did)
just my 2cents. have fun

 

[Chondropython]

I finally had some time to crank up the amp last night for a few hours, and noticed a potential problem.

When playing loud in Channel 3 in "Modern (Normal)" mode with the gain cranked way up, the sound would cut off on the initial attack with the pick... it sounded almost like it was overloaded and couldn't take the initial hit with the pick. After that, the sound would come back and the cutting off wouldn't happen again until the next strum.

Does this sound like tube replacement might be in order? I only noticed it on Channel 3, and only with the gain past 3:00.... seems to sound fine on the other channels. I stillhave time to return the amp where I bought it (30 day return on used equip), so I am trying to decide what to do... ?

 

[TimeSignature]

Werent the Nomads promblematic?

 

[nomad100hd]

mine a pain in the butt as far as breaking a lot. stock they are muddy, and the reverb sucks on 2 and 3.

sound like blocking distortion is happening that's when the input is to high and the tube cuts out for a moment. retube might help