Another what do I do thread . . .

mupchu · #1 03-28-2011, 11:30 AM

So I need a new amp, the old carvin R600 is ready to take a back seat. I have a budget around 200-400$, new or used does not matter.

background: I am using a SWR Goliath (8ohm, 400w) if I need something loud, using a Avatar SB112 (8ohm, 250w) for smaller gigs, and as a personal monitor. I usually use the 112 as a stage monitor and go out to the PA through a line 6 POD. I am thinking of ditching the POD as I don't use effects and while the sound guy likes the modeled sound at the board I am thinking I want to remove all the variables from the setup. I almost exclusivly use the 112 now, the church's I play at all have decent PA's and I pretty much just use the 112 for a monitor.

I am looking at the following:

GK MB200 - a little on the small side but I have the option to go pre/post eq, and I have heard this little amp rocks. I've pretty much played Carvin amps for the last 19 years so a change is welcome. I figure if I need to really pound my sound out I can get a PA head, and use the GK head as a preamp. The R600 will remain as a backup.

Carvin BX500 - I can upgrade my current R600 for about $250. The real deal killer on this is the lack of pre/post EQ. I also was looking forward to an aux-in to make practice a little easier. I would like to be able to color the line out as our sound guys are used to the modeled sound from a Line 6 (go figure). I can get a direct box and run it off the tuner out or something but it feels like a band aid, if I am spending money on new equipment I don;t want a mess. Also if I want a nice direct box it's gonna get expensive. I also will not have a backup amp.

Carvin BX1500 - For a little more money I can get the BX1500 (way more than I need in terms of watts). It has all the bells and whistles though (except the aux in). For anyone who has this amp, how do you like the direct out? I will also be running without a back up amp.

Genz Benz Shuttle 3.0 - I'd like the 6.0 but i'll need one used to sneak it into my budget. This has everything, although I have heard people complain the amp is to thin sounding. It will also be on the low side as far as output is concerned. Same deal as the GK is concerned though.

As far as my sound . . I play such a variety I need to be able to play it all. I would say that I prefer a tight funk sound, but I still need to be able to make my fretless sing.

so based on all that any thoughts / comments?

thanks!

waleross · #2 03-28-2011, 11:50 AM

I do favor Genz 3.0. I have the big boy GBE1200(to replace an SvT4Pro) and it seems to be in my future to get one of their cabs. Good customer support which is important. I don't know the other makes but GBenz get my vote......

BigOldHarry · #3 03-28-2011, 01:14 PM

It really depends on your budget - $250 for the MB200 is hard to beat... I voted for the GB as I like GB, but if you are trying to save $$$ the GK is the way to go. If you want a fine amp, GB. Nothing wrong with Carvin, by the way...

Pollinator95 · #4 03-28-2011, 01:30 PM

I like the look of the MB200, I can´t say what´s better for you, though. No vote!

Systolic · #5 03-28-2011, 05:25 PM

I voted for the Carvin BX500. Do take a look at the Hartke LH500 though. I have heard nothing but praise for it, although I have no personal experience with it.

Jarrett · #6 03-28-2011, 05:36 PM

I had a Genz Benz Shuttle 9.0 and sold it once I got the BX500. Do you know you can get them on Ebay new for $349 with no tube? I've got plenty of clips of the BX500 DI if you'd like to hear them. PM if interested.