Attenuator Recommendation?

[RocknRoll5]

I've got a Metroamp JTM45. The attenuator I'm currently using is a Weber MiniMass attenuator, sounds good, doesn't seem to really steal much from the amp.

I was told recently that the Weber stuff can harm you amp though....anyone else have an opinion on this?

Also, what other attenuators would you recommend? I've heard that the THD Hotplate is good, what do you think?

Thanks.

[Mars Hall]

As long as your not looking for "bedroom level" volume, my Hot PLates has worked out well for me. Any attenuation more than -8 db gets compressed sounding.

I've haven't read anything specific about Weber's units as far as issues go. Attenuators sometimes get a bad rep because when guitarists use them ,it generally means they're running the amp harder, which will reveal any weakness.

[mrkrausman]

I've been using the Airbrake by Dr Z for 2 years now. A very good one for around $300. There is no line out but a real workhorse for the money.

[page361]

The Aracom PRX150 DAG is by far the most transparent box I've ever used. Just recieved mine about 3 weeks ago and WOW...no comparison to my HotPlate especially at the "bedroom" level. The PRX is pricey but well worth it if you can swing the $800 plus premium. I plan on using it at our gig at EOM.

[toner]

Stay away from the Hot Plate unless you only need to attenuate 4dB or maybe 8dB. Beyond that and the tone and dynamics are killed.

Alex's is great and is about 1/2 the cost of the Aracom. PM 908ssp for info.

From all I've read, these 3 are the best:
Aracom
Alex's
Faustine

[cary chilton]

Alex's attenuator was recommended by Tim Faustine himself as a second choice to his. So, what does that tell anyone here who doesn't know much?

[chatreed]

Stay away from the Hot Plate unless you only need to attenuate 4dB or maybe 8dB. Beyond that and the tone and dynamics are killed.

Alex's is great and is about 1/2 the cost of the Aracom. PM 908ssp for info.

From all I've read, these 3 are the best:
Aracom
Alex's
Faustine

I quite like alex's,and it works great

[SoloDallas]

The Aracom PRX150 DAG is by far the most transparent box I've ever used. Just recieved mine about 3 weeks ago and WOW...no comparison to my HotPlate especially at the "bedroom" level. The PRX is pricey but well worth it if you can swing the $800 plus premium. I plan on using it at our gig at EOM.

I now have two of these.
I just bought another one for back up, since I now depend entirely on attenuators (with 6 vintage and non-vintage heads).

It is the most incredible one I have ever tried/heard.

Not that I have had so many, since I "only" own a PowerBrake and an Ultimate.

However, compared to the latter two, it's really another thing. To me, it is the best one out there bar none.

I hear about these other two, the Alex and the Faustine, which I do not know.

[vanhalen5150]

I have a Rivera rock crusher in the mail. Heard good reveiws, and for the price and features I thought I'd give it a go after trying one out. 8/16ohm switchable and a studio line out $499 including shipping. Havent tried the Aracom or the Alex so I cant comment there. They need to redesign or upgrade the THD Hotplate. It was top of the pile back ion the day but I think could be improved upon.
What I would give to see gut shots of all these.....

[SoloDallas]

I always like to give proof of what I say. In the sense that, "it's good, better than X/Y, etc." is far too used on the net (and in real life chatter).

I have 5 videos up on youtube, this is part one using the Aracom:

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X-9igZhS6QE[/youtube]

[redgtr]

I sure do like my Faustine Phantom.

[dnatronic]

I agree with the Aracom. Jeff, the inventor, has figured out how to get attenuation without squashing the speaker's natural resonance.

[Roe]

I'm very happy with the alex. it works great and is more affordable than some of the other good attenuators

[vanhalen5150]

What did the Alex cost? I tried contacting them a few times a month or so ago. Never heard back. Ended up paying $500 for a Rivera. Hotplate will be for sale after hearing it yesterday. I want to try the Aracom, but I have to rob a train or stagecoach first.

[Roe]

What did the Alex cost? I tried contacting them a few times a month or so ago. Never heard back. Ended up paying $500 for a Rivera. Hotplate will be for sale after hearing it yesterday. I want to try the Aracom, but I have to rob a train or stagecoach first.

the alex is pretty affordable. its 370usd included shipping IF I remember correctly