ADA MP-1,MP-2 nailed down please

[gorch]

We had the analog vs digital discussions here. Since I'm an analog guy I'm constantly looking for multi-effects units that could make it as an replacement for my beloved Rockman XPR if it came to an end with it.

Believe me or not, I just came to notice about the ADA series. Never heard before about those units, but could not make a clear mind about the different models. The MP-2 is the more modern release of the series, but seems to receive unclear reviews as opposed to the MP-1 that in various versions seems to having defined a standard in its time.

So please nail down the pros and cons of both models. I'm looking for versatility not just metal capabilities.

[FrankieIII]

The ADA series pretty much defined the '80s. Check Youtube for actual sound samples as YMMV.

[tbonesullivan]

I had an MP-1 for a while. VERY METAL. Some good analog effects too. I just was too MIDI-retarded to figure out how to work it.

[Hamer95USA]

Hey gorch,

I played a stock ADA MP-1 preamp in my Top 40 cover bands for many years. About 7 years, I discovered the ADA Depot website and had Hairston Bagg install the 3TM mod tube circuitboard and a few other upgrades (noise mod, v2.01 software chip, new lithium battery, rear input jack mod) on my stock MP-1 preamp. The 3TM mod has a ton of killer sounding high gain tone that sounds like a hot rodded Marshall and I can still use the stock solid state clean channel for cleans. The other mods improved the sound and functionality of the preamp. What I like about it is that I can run the 3TM mod MP-1 preamp with a effects processor into a tube or mosvalve power amp, into a speaker cab and get awesome tones off of it or run it into the effects loop return of a borrowed combo amp or amp head/speaker cab and get my own sound with little tweaking.

I don't know much about the MP-2 preamp so I can't comment on its sound or programming. You should check out the ADA Depot website if you want more information. They have a lot of information about this subject.

Guitar George