Quick Answers to FAQ's:
To start the process send an email that lists the modifications you need and your full return address. In recent years I’ve been embarrassingly negligent at returning initial emails in a timely manner, often months after they’re sent. Please don’t take this personally, and If I fail to respond within a few days PLEASE feel free to re-send until you’re satisfied.
This link should open your default email client.
I will respond to your request with a shipping address and any other details related to your work if necessary.
Wait time for modifications can be as long as 30 days, but more often less.
Very Important! Please include your name, return shipping address and a list of mods on a note inside the box when you ship. A printout of your initial email request (that includes the above) will work fine, unless we’ve decided together on an alternative solution.
You do not need to send the power supply unless you're having power issues.
Let me know when it's on the way, and I'll let you know soon after it arrives.
I'll send you an invoice via PayPal a day or so before I start the work, no need to pay upfront for non-expedited work.
Rush work is available, the requirements/agreement is posted at the very end of this page.
I can supply a new unit, or receive one from a seller of your choice.
Currently, I do not have the resources to strip, prep and refinish these units at a feasible cost to you. I do plan to offer this service again in late 2019 and will show availability on the website as soon as it's ready.
Your presets will not be erased during the mod process but may be lost when an extensive repair is necessary. I will warn you of this in advance.
I will back up your presets and update the firmware upon request for an extra $10.
I can fix almost every issue related to these. Repairs range from $50 - $75 unless factory hardware (LCDs, PCBs, power IC's etc.) needs to be replaced. In that case, we will discuss the added cost after I diagnose the issue.
If a modification takes care of the problem there's no additional charge (i.e. intermittent audio on units with serial numbers that include "S5934").
About modifications for the M13:
Please be aware, there is a known issue with some M13's regarding random power failure. Even though they may be working without issue before, a number of these have failed after the Audio Upgrade and I've yet to determine a fix. If your unit falls within the serial numbers M131S584******* and M131S604******* it is not a reliable candidate for the Audio Upgrade. Once I track down the cause and have a reliable solution I will offer the Audio Upgrade for this range of serial numbers again. All other modifications to these are still applicable without eliciting failure.
How Long Does It Take?
Under normal circumstances, the turnaround for similar mods/builds could take as long as 30 days. To make sure I can turn your pedal around in a feasible amount of time we may need to schedule when you ship. This way, I won't have an unusual backlog of work that leaves your unit untouched for longer than expected. If this works for you just let me know and we'll work together to schedule the right time!
Payment is normally through PayPal.
Early payment for your order is welcome, however, you are not required to pay when you ship. I'll contact you within a few days before starting the work and send you an invoice via PayPal for the total. Keep in mind I usually will not start the work or purchase return shipping until after your payment clears, therefore, promptly settling the invoice will help me get your pedal back as soon as possible.
Full payment IS required for new units that are pre-modified, for other highly-custom work and/or for expedited service (see below).
About Cost:
To help sweeten the deal, if you get both the Audio Upgrade and Switch Replacement I'll be glad to give you a small discount of $10 for M9 and $15 for M13.
There are no other discount offers beyond the expression or scene select switch combinations shown on the M Series Mod page.
If you're interested in a modification not included on the website just mention it in your email.
For instance, here are a few of the most common combinations showing their respective discounts. If you need a mod not shown simply add its cost from the website to the totals below.
M9
Audio Upgrade - $115
Replacement Switches - ($99) $89
Scene Select Switch - ($45) $30
Return Shipping (USPS Priority Mail Medium Flat Rate Box [O-FRB_] in the US) $14.35
Total - $248.35M13
Audio Upgrade - $135
Replacement Switches - ($155) $140
Return Shipping (this varies greatly) $29.50
Total - $304.50
New/Used Unit from JHV3:
I will be glad to secure a brand new unit for you: M9 at $400US and M13 at $500US. If you choose this route, I will need to bill you for the entire cost of pedal, modifications and shipping at the time of your order. It takes from 10-14 days for my distributor to deliver these, please keep this in mind when you consider your schedule.
New/Used Unit from your Seller:
If you find a better deal on a new/used unit I'll be glad to receive a pedal on your behalf from the seller. Make sure to communicate to me where the pedal is coming from so I can associate it with your order. Even better, please ask the seller to include your name on the shipping label as in "ATTN: your name" under the JHV3 company line, or drop a note in the box with your name as the buyer.
Need a Quote?
If you would like an exact quote make sure I have your full address and mod list and I'll send you a total including return shipping.
Estimate shipping cost without making contact
JHV3 is located near Atlanta, GA. Use the zip code 30252 when figuring estimated postage via your prefered online shipping portal.
Very important things you & I should know before you ship:
Please let me know if the pedal has been previously modified. It's usually necessary for me to re-work some elements of previous modifications to ensure the new changes will work without issue or compromise. I prefer to know this ahead of time so I can schedule any extra time necessary.
I'll assume your pedal is in full working condition and without issue unless you let me know otherwise. If during initial inspection I find something at error (power issues, broken or loose potentiometers/jacks, missing screws/jack bezels/knobs, malfunctioning audio I/O or expression ports, cracked screen, excessive rust or water damage, etc.) your work may be delayed until we discuss these issues and determine if they need to be rectified.
If the serial number of your M9 includes S5934, it will require a preventive fix for a known flaw unless the issue has already been corrected under warranty by Line 6. The Audio Upgrade includes measures to remedy this, otherwise, the fix is $50. If your mods to an S5934 do not include the Audio Upgrade, I will have to apply the fix before completing the rest of the mods. The trauma during disassembly and reassembly alone will exacerbate the problem and drastically increase the chances of failure in the audio path. If you refuse the additional repair fee I will refuse to modify it and return it only after you've paid for the cost of return shipping.
If having the switches replaced: Are your switch bezels showing signs of pitting or delamination of the chrome plating? This will show up as small bumps, pits, marks, chips, discoloration and/or haziness that will not wipe off with a general cleaner and cloth. If so, during the machining process to enlarge the bezels for new switches some of the chrome layer may peel away leaving part of the substrate exposed. I'm very careful to keep this to a minimum and it's happened to less than 2% of the several thousand bezels I've machined over the years, the worst case was collectively 8mm square. Just know that it can happen.
If having Expression Switches installed, the existing expression system must work without flaw or error and has been tested by you with a stock Line 6 expression pedal. Otherwise, I'll have to diagnose and repair the issue before making the modification.
I will charge you full price for repair labor if issues are not disclosed ahead of time.
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Preparing, Boxing and Shipping Your Unit:
You do not need to send your AC adapter (unless you're experiencing problems with powering the unit).
Please include a short note (or printout of your email) in the box showing the complete shipping address where you would like the pedal returned as well as a list of the mods you'd like.
Be certain that your pedal will not move inside the box during shipping.
Take extra effort to protect the parameter knobs on the top, these are very susceptible to damage when left within 1-2 inches of the top or side of the enclosure. If your pedal is damaged because of improper packaging I'll need to charge you for the repair before I can send it back. Otherwise, I can not offer the same guarantee and will decline your work. In that case, you'll be required to pay for the return postage and we can still be friends.
Return Shipping:
Unless you desire otherwise, the default carrier for return shipping is the United States Postal Service (USPS). As of July 2019 Priority Mail return shipping within the US for an M9 is $14.35 or less if everything you would like returned will fit into a Priority Mail Medium Flat Rate box (see description below). This service averages 2-3 days for delivery and includes a tracking number with optional free text and email updates.
An M13 can be 2-4 times that cost via USPS (because of the added weight and relative size of the box you ship it in) however, UPS and FedEx may offer less expensive rates for ground shipping for some areas. As a general rule, whatever you spend to send it to me, you can expect that much again to send it back but I will work with you to determine options if available.
In some cases, return shipping may be billed separately depending on your choice of carrier and timeframe.
The cost of return shipping does not include insurance. If you think you need it let me know ahead of time and I will add this to your shipping cost in the invoice.
USPS should send you tracking information within 24 hours of when the label is purchased. Note that I often buy these in lots and it doesn't necessarily mean your package is on the way, but unless I notify you otherwise, it should be in the system within 24 hours.
I will gladly use a prepaid label you provide or use your personal/corporate account with FedEx/UPS.
International shipping for M series units cost at least $75US. (For instance, in 2016 an M9 to Argentina is $57US, Australia is about $60US and an M13 is an additional $15US to $30US.) I will not under-declare the value of a new or used pedal in order for you to circumvent the law in your country. I declare these pedals as Type = "Other", description = "repaired/modified guitar pedal", with origin from the US.
You probably know this already but believe it or not, some need to hear it:
Please, do not simply send your pedal in a padded envelope or other container without first properly packing it in a padded/protected cardboard box. There is never a circumstance when just an envelope (padded or otherwise) is the proper way to ship a pedal, and should be considered an insult to any buyer who receives their pedal from a seller in such form. The pedal(s) should not be able to move inside the box if shaken or dropped. Be sure to leave padded space between all of the controls/switches/jacks and the side of the container, otherwise, a simple drop from a few feet will inevitably bend or break these components and likely damage their related circuits on the inside of the pedal.
$ Money Saving Tip: When boxing up your M9 or M13, if you send it (properly protected) in a container other than the original box you can reduce your shipping charges (both ways) as much as 50%.
Packing your M9
M9's fit nicely with ample bubble wrap in a USPS Priority Mail Medium Flat Rate Box (The cube-shaped O-FRB[sometimes referenced as "1"] and NOT the flatter laptop-sized O-FRB2. The later leaves your control knobs susceptible to damage during shipping). This is almost always the quickest and most cost effective way to ship your M9.
This box cost about $15 or less at the Post office, or a Regional Rate Box B (RRBB1) is about the same shape and slightly larger than the Medium Flat Rate Box but may cost considerably less if you are shipping from the South-East or Eastern Coast.
Packing your M13
You'll need to be creative with your M13, but the extra mass of the original box inside of another container is not worth the cost, especially when shipping via Express or Overnight. When sending you a quote for return shipping it will be based on the weight and size of a container that does not include the original box. If you send the box anyway it will be necessary to charge you for the additional weight and size in your final invoice.
If finding a container becomes an issue, only then I would suggest using the original box as THE container. Adding additional padding inside (packing nuts and or bubble wrap is ideal) then wrapping the box with shipping paper (typical brown craft paper) has proven to be a successful and safe technique to ship.
EXPEDITED SERVICE!
I take great pride and care in all of my work, and top quality effort the first time will ensure that the changes last a lifetime and ensure reliability. This attention to detail takes relatively longer than you may find elsewhere, however, it's one reason I can offer a warranty far beyond that of another company.
If you do decide to expedite your order we'll need to schedule a precise window for the work and you must fully agree to and qualify for one of the following:
3-4 Day Turnaround:
The pedal is in my possession at least 3-4 days after delivery from your choice of carrier (this does not include the time for return shipping).
You are responsible for the full cost of all mods (no combination discounts offered on the website or in this email are available) plus a $45 rush fee to be paid in full on the day the pedal arrives here.
The following must be disclosed before you ship it to me:
The pedal must be in full working condition, and without issue, unless otherwise disclosed, documented and acknowledged by me as something that can be corrected within the quick-turn time frame.
If the serial number includes S5934. This will require a preventive fix for a known flaw.
If having the switches replaced: are the stock bezels showing signs of pitting or de-lamination of the chrome plating. This will show up as small bumps, pits, marks, chips, discoloration and/or haziness that will not wipe off with general cleaner and cloth. If so, some of the chrome may peel away leaving exposed substrate during the machining process to enlarge the bezels for new switches.
If having Expression Switches installed, the existing expression system works without flaw or error and has been tested by you with a stock Line 6 expression pedal.
Failure to disclose the above disqualifies quick turn service.
Once we agree the pedal is a candidate for quick turn and have articulated the mod list I'll send you an invoice for the mod/repair work only and you can freely ship it with confidence.
After the pedal arrives, is inspected, tested and qualified for quick-turn I will start the clock as soon as your invoice is paid.
Return shipping may be billed separately depending on your choice of carrier and timeframe. I will gladly use any pre-paid label you send (in the box or email) or use your account number with FedEx/UPS.
Once shipping is agreed upon and not included in the first invoice, I'll send a second invoice for the cost of shipping that must be paid in full before I purchase and release/deliver your package to the carrier.
Rush work does not entitle you to expedited warranty work. All mods are guaranteed for at least a year from the time you receive the pedal for the cost of return shipping, however, warranty work is not considered rush work but completed as soon as possible within a reasonable timeframe.
One Day turnaround:
The pedal is in my possession at least 24 hours after delivery from your carrier. Carefully consider the return times when choosing a return carrier.
You are responsible for the full cost of all mods (no combination discounts offered on the website or in this email are available) plus an $85 rush fee to be paid in full on the day the pedal arrives here.
The following must be disclosed before you ship it to me:
The pedal must be in full working condition, and without issue, unless otherwise disclosed, documented and acknowledged by me as something that can be corrected within the quick-turn time frame.
If the serial number includes S5934. This will require a preventive fix for a known flaw.
If having the switches replaced: are the stock bezels showing signs of pitting or de-lamination of the chrome plating. This will show up as small bumps, pits, marks, chips, discoloration and/or haziness that will not wipe off with general cleaner and cloth. If so, some of the chrome may peel away leaving exposed substrate during the machining process to enlarge the bezels for new switches.
If having Expression Switches installed, the existing expression system works without flaw or error and has been tested by you with a stock Line 6 expression pedal.
Failure to disclose the above disqualifies quick turn service.
Once we agree the pedal is a candidate for quick turn and have articulated the mod list I'll send you an invoice for the mod/repair work only and you can freely ship it with confidence.
After the pedal arrives, is inspected, tested and qualified for quick-turn I will start the clock as soon as your invoice is paid.
Return shipping may be billed separately depending on your choice of carrier and timeframe. I will gladly use any pre-paid label you send (in the box or email) or use your account number with FedEx/UPS.
Once shipping is agreed upon and not included in the first invoice, I'll send a second invoice for the cost of shipping that must be paid in full before I purchase and release/deliver your package to the carrier.
Rush work does not entitle you to expedited warranty work. All mods are guaranteed for at least a year from the time you receive the pedal for the cost of return shipping, however, warranty work is not considered rush work but completed as soon as possible within a reasonable timeframe.
Do you offer artist discounts/endorsement deals/donations/etc.?
I very rarely provide pedals or work in exchange for “spreading the word” (especially when prompted via email). However, over the course of an agreeable relationship with artists and professional musicians I sometimes choose to invite JHV3 users into a more formal relationship that includes discounts for promotion.