Calling all GBE 1200 users!

[Iritan]

Okay, so I just got my GBE 1200 back from them after they fixed it and I'm looking at it, and I can't help but think, "That is one sexy beast."

I was just about to put it back in it's three space carpeted rack I got for it a while ago, and then I thought about how nice it would look atop my Schroeder unracked.

But naturally, I want to keep her as safe from harm as possible, while also having convenient handles. So debating this in my head, I got to wondering - How many GBE 1200 users don't rack their head?

So, let me know how that works out, or if it's a bad idea and why.

Thanks.

[coolrunner989]

I have a GBE750, and it's in a rack currently, so I can't help you specifically (other than agree that the GBE stuff is sexy!)

I did have a GK 1001 for a while unracked. Basically you are (or should be) just as careful about setting it down wherever, the rack just keeps the head from getting scratches itself, unless you are considering a shockmount rack.
And sometimes a rack with handles is easier to set down/pick up on edge rather than bending down all the way to set things level on the floor.
The other option is get a padded bag to carry it in but take out the head for playing. I don't know if you could find one for a 3-space head, but it wouldn't hurt to look.

[Jazzdogg]

Every head I've owned, except my '64 Bassman, has been racked in a road case, or a transported in a fitted gig bag or rack bag. I like having a place to stow cables and such, I like comfortably shaped handles, and I like to have my gear protected - especially in storage and transport.

If you want your gear to be visible all of the time, perhaps a case like the ones Mesa uses would float your boat.

[Iritan]

The mesa ones definitely add to the coolness, but a little too bulky. I'm also not so sure if they would fit the gbe.

And yeah, now that I think about it, the most important thing to me about the rack is portability, rather than safety - since I try to be very careful regardless.

[Jazzdogg]

If you're handy, you can make something similar to Mesa's that's customized to suit your preferences, at a reasonable cost, and without too much difficulty.

It's a good idea to obtain all of the hardware, Tolex, and so forth in advance so you can design and build around tangible materials.

Draw everything full scale, create patterns and templates where appropriate, and write out the sequence of operations (plan of procedure) before you start.

[KsPiNeSh]

You could always snag a Genz Benz sleeve for it.

[ReBass]

I rack mine. I find it a pain to carry around to gigs without one, not to mention the fact that its a lot safer in the rack when sitting around waiting to play.

[agedhorse]

I always recommend a rack to protect the amp from the dangers of the road. If you are transporting it, accidents can happen and like all rack mount amps, the front panel controls are vulnerable to getting damaged if they "take a hit".

Be sure that any rack you use offers at least 1 inch of clearance on the fan side of the amp. (This applies to any rack mount amp with a side fan).

[Fretlessboy]

rack it...period

[Iritan]

Originally Posted by Fretlessboy

rack it...period

Out of spite, my GBE1200 will remain unracked til the day I bite the dust.

[Crabby]

I keep my Carbine in a very compact 3 space Gator rack with a tuner and it makes for a sweet little setup that I can carry in one hand. My other Mesa head, the Big Block lives in a matching headcase. As cool as it looks, its a real pain to carry it anywhere. Still nothing like the weight of an SVT but I will take lightweight and protection over coolness any day.

[I play metal]

In my jam room...maybee un racked but on the road its a no brainer bro.Racker up!

On top of my GB uber 810 it looks stealthy and hot unracked I gotta say.

[Jaco who?]

Plexiglass.