PJB Suitcase kaput

[leroybasslines]

Hi there. You know when you plug in your amp for a bit of a play and after 5 mins smoke starts pouring out of it and you decide that, all things considered, it’s probably best to turn it off and not turn it on again? Yeah, that. 
 

It’s a PJB Suitcase, the original model. I’ve had it for a good 15 years and it’s worked hard - loads of gigging - so I’m not surprised that it’s feeling it’s age. I now need to decide whether to repair or go for a new amp. I’ve just finished reading a thread on here where a basschatter had a serious headache dealing with PJB and Selectron, their UK distributor.

 

I was wondering if anyone else has dealt with PJB and Selectron and had any tips? Or advice on whether to stick or twist with the Suitcase? I’ve got a busy summer of gigs coming up so time is a factor.  Any wisdom most gratefully received!

 

Thanks,

Liam

[yorks5stringer]

I read the  thread too and it does not sound good ( a bit like your amp!) If you can afford it buy another or look on the classifieds here and there's a MarkBass CMD121P for £450....( I've got no skin in the game). Or something to DI into a PA?

[gjones]

I recommend buying a Fender Rumble 100 V3. I bought one used and it's excellent.

 

Stupidly light, good sound and at least as loud as a PJB suitcase.

 

I have a Markbass CMD121P too but it's a lot louder, than your old Suitcase combo and, unless money is no object, is possibly more than you need.

Edited June 2, 2022 by gjones

[TheRev]

 

Not good....

 

[Downunderwonder]

While a lot of smoke isn't necessarily doom, the situation with the agent would put it in the too hard basket for me. Plenty of mini amps could be strapped on to replace the burned up original.

[Bunion]

Take it to a local tech if he can’t fix it buy another, 15 years is a good run, if it was a car which cost significantly more you’d have chopped it in years ago or you’d just scrap it now and get another 

Edited June 2, 2022 by Bunion

[6feet7]

I was completely Phil Jones (Suitcase and C8 cab). Part-exed it for Markbass Little Mark 3 and Ninja 122 cab. Much lighter and louder. I wouldn't go back.

[leroybasslines]

Thanks everyone. I think you're all right - time to move onto something new. I did speak to a tech local to me and he said he wouldn't be able to help much. Thanks for all the suggestions...time to hit the shops!

[JPJ]

If my experience with Selectron UK is anything to go by I'd say its time to move on to another brand. 

[JohnH89]

Had a small problem with my out of warranty briefcase a couple of months ago . Selectron were polite on the phone but not interested in anything out of warranty . They put me on to a local amp tech . All sorted but no spares used so can't tell you how easily they are available . Good luck