New OT for Bugera 333XL? Worth it?

[Danglin' Fury]

I recently contacted Mercury Magnetics because I was curious about a transformer change. OT specifically. They have a deal that if I send them my Bugera 333XL OT, they'll sell me an OT for, let's just say, cheaper. Super sweet deal on the transformer but will it really make the even order harmonics more prominent? Is the tonal quality that much better? Opinions? Suggestions? Or is it one of those Snake Oil kind of things? Thanks for lookin'.

-Shawn-

[Steve Conner]

Hard to say without knowing how good the original OT is. Irrespective of the actual difference, you could probably convince yourself that it sounds much better and be very happy. Sound memory is a fragile thing, and you'll go some time between hearing the old OT and the new one.

Maybe the reason for the sweet deal is that Mercury haven't got their hands on a Bugera OT yet, and they want to know too!

[Chuck H]

I also find that Mercury wanting the exchange is suspect. But if they want one of those OT's it's not a hard thing to get. I think it may have more to do with keeping the buyer from making direct comparisons.

The difference is likely to be small. A little more bass, perhaps a shift in prominent treble frequencies. Maybe a little louder. But it's worth noting that these small differences can really be worth the trouble.

Mercury makes good transformers. Almost certainly better than the stock Bugera. But will it actually sound better? A side by side listening test would be the only way to tell... And it seems Mercury doesn't want you to do that!?!

[GainFreak]

I also find that Mercury wanting the exchange is suspect. But if they want one of those OT's it's not a hard thing to get. I think it may have more to do with keeping the buyer from making direct comparisons.

I seriously doubt that MM are curious to see what's inside the OT. They should know better than Bugera about OTs. And if they really want to take a look why not get one piece for free
The big secret about OTs is there's no secret... That's why it's so well kept.

[big_teee]

Yes, but the whole Trade-in thing Smells Funny.
What tubes are in a 333, and what Primary Impedance is it.
I bet you could buy a Classic Tone out right and keep the one you have and still have enough for a Big Mac at the Golden Arches.
ClassicTone Project Style 100W Output Transformer, 2.2K to 4/8/16 Ohms
Fender Output Transformer, Showman, Dual Showman, Twin Reverb, Bassman 100, 4/8/16 Ohm
http://www.classictone.net/40-18026.html
Good Luck,
Keep Rockin!
Terry