Feeding a mono signal into 2-channels

General discussion area for tube amps.

Moderators: pompeiisneaks, Colossal

Post Reply
pjd3
Posts: 717
Joined: Sun Nov 20, 2011 2:11 pm
Location: Reading, MA

Feeding a mono signal into 2-channels

Post by pjd3 »

Hello,

It would be interesting to hear your thoughts on options.

So while I make plans and gather parts for a 2-channel stereo amp (really two 6V6 plexi's in a Twin reverb type chassis/cabinet) I'm looking at the possibilities of what will be coming into the actual inputs of the 2 amps. If there is a stereo pedal as the last Stompbox in the chain, then that takes care of having 2 outputs, one for each amp/channel. But, if the chain ended with a mono output pedal, then what are we looking at as possibilities for having that mono output enter the inputs for the 2 channels/amps?.

Would it be expected that the final L and R active outputs of the last pedal be fine if simply split into 2 inputs of 1Meg each? Or, is there something else that would be needed to maintain a proper signal level and/or integrity? It seems as though having a lower impedance active mono output would be fine splaying out into 2 inputs, both with likely much higher impedances than the output of the pedal has.

I would suspect that should it only be the guitar output seeing both inputs than a call for a good transformer-based splitter would be a necessity.

Another thought that had come to mind is if a tube can ever be used to input a mono signal and split it out to the grids of each channel, kind of transparent level/impedance buffer that would look very similar to say, a straight guitar signal. I suspect once you put a signal through a tube, something has to change but, just looking at possibilities here. I did come across a German company that makes a range of good looking although expensive ABY AB ABC, etc boxes that seem to address lots of configurations for more than one amp. I have to wonder if the transformers in those are available for DIY AB splitter box. All I am probably looking at is a transparent splitter, mono in, 2 out.

Thank you!
Best,
Phil
I’m only one person (most of the time)
Post Reply