We have found that the Ashly EQs we so loved, for so many years, the GQX-3102, has somehow CHANGED the way it SOUNDS after Ashly started making it in China. We did notice several differences right out of the box, such as the detachable power cord (a PLUS actually), and that the power switch has been located to the rear (a MAJOR NEGATIVE). The sliders and knobs feel sluggish (as in CHEAP), and even the color and silkscreen are not the same.
However, cosmetics and power switch/cord issues aside, the damn things just does NOT SOUND RIGHT. We own about 12 of the USA made variety, and each and every one of them sound EXACTLY THE SAME AS THE NEXT. However, this one made in China has a dramatic DROP in output, as compared to any of our made in USA units.
Thinking we had a defective unit, we sent it back to Ashly. First time around, they replaced all the sliders, stating on the paperwork that they "did not like the feel of them." You think?
So it comes back, and the damn thing SOUNDS EXACTLY AS IT DID WHEN WE SENT IT BACK. So we package it up and ship it to them again (another $65.00). They bench tested it, and declared it "functions as specified." Functions perhaps, but certainly not to OUR EARS.
After a lengthy email argument, with a person who states that he is a manager of some sort, we finally gave up on it, and purchased a MADE IN USA unit which is at least 8 years old. And guess what? IT WORKS AND SOUNDS EXACTLY AS IT SHOULD.
The moral of this story, except the obvious (just do not purchase anything new from Ashly anymore, as it is all made in China now)? You get what you pay for. Write a letter to your favorite manufacture of commercial grade sound reinforcement gear and let them know that you will PAY MORE if they will please make their products where they should be made. And this is right here in the good old USA!
