Won’t power on
A dead amplifier or repeatedly blowing fuse can indicate a fault in the mains or power-supply circuitry.
Independent repair workshop · Lowestoft, Suffolk
Guitar & bass amplifier repair across the UK.
I repair guitar and bass amplifiers, from vintage valve amps to modern solid-state and hybrid designs. Local visits are by appointment; courier repairs are available across the UK by arrangement.
Discuss an amplifier repairAmplifiers we repair
Valve, solid-state and hybrid.
Repairs are welcomed from owners of Marshall, Fender, Vox, Orange, Blackstar, Laney, Peavey, Ashdown, Ampeg, Mesa/Boogie, Hiwatt, Roland, Yamaha and many other makes.
If your model is not listed, get in touch with the make, model and symptoms.
Common amplifier problems
What is your amplifier doing?
Humming or buzzing
Excessive noise may be caused by ageing components, valves, grounding or power-supply faults.
Crackling or cutting out
Intermittent faults are reproduced and traced before parts are replaced.
Weak or distorted output
Signal-path testing locates loss of volume, unwanted distortion and changes in sound quality.
Overheating
Burning smells, excessive temperature and repeated fuse failure should be investigated before further use.
Controls and connections
Scratchy controls, unreliable sockets, switches and effects loops are checked mechanically and electrically.
Our amplifier repair process
From reported fault to a properly tested repair.
Every amplifier is approached methodically. You are kept informed of the diagnosis, likely cost and repair options before additional work is carried out.
1
Assessment
The reported symptoms are discussed, the amplifier is inspected and the fault is checked where safe to do so.
2
Diagnosis
I trace the fault with circuit measurements and, where relevant, valve tests. For example, a power-supply fault can cause a buzz even when the valves test well.
3
Approval
The findings, repair options and likely cost are explained. Work beyond the initial diagnostic is agreed before proceeding.
4
Repair
Approved work is completed using suitable, correctly rated components and careful workshop practice.
5
Testing & play test
I carry out electrical checks and a play test under suitable conditions, checking the repair against the original symptoms.
6
Return
You receive a clear account of the work completed, along with any relevant advice for safe and reliable use.
Sending your amp to Lowestoft
UK-wide courier amplifier repairs
If you’re outside Suffolk, contact me with the make, model, symptoms and your location before booking a courier. I’ll confirm whether I can take on the repair.
We’ll agree packing, delivery and return arrangements before you send the amp. Courier charges are separate from workshop labour and parts.
How to arrange a courier repair →Amplifier pricing
Clear starting costs.
Diagnostic fee£50Up to 45 minutes; deducted if the repair proceeds
Valve amp serviceFrom £175Plus parts
Repair labour£75/hrPlus parts
Service and repair
See the work behind the diagnosis.
Vox AC30C2: tracing power-supply buzz
A failed reservoir capacitor was identified through power-supply measurements. The repair was followed by controlled power-up, valve checks and a play test.
Read the AC30 case study →
Emprise Harrier: tracing noisy reverb
Reverb crackling was traced to an open-circuit transformer primary. The transformer was replaced and the reported noise was absent in the final play test.
Read the Harrier case study →Valve amp servicing
Condition checks, cleaning and service work from £175 plus parts.
Explore servicing →Start with a conversation
Tell me what needs attention.
Send the make, model and symptoms, or book a workshop appointment. Discuss courier arrangements before sending an amplifier.
Workshop visits by appointment · Lowestoft, Suffolk