cheap amp heads, GK vs. Ampeg

thisisausername · #1 06-25-2011, 12:39 PM

A few weeks ago I purchased a GK Backline 600 head, it's a pretty good head but it doesn't get that slightly driven tube-like sound that I really like. I was at guitarcenter a few days ago and came across the Ampeg Micro-VR head and was blown away by how much it sounded like it's $2300 tube big brother. My only concern is how loud it will be, I play through an Acoustic B410 (8ohms) and a Hartke 8x10 (paper cone, 4ohm) depending on the location of the gig, I play medium-large clubs (think The Crazy Donkey) and outdoor shows/block parties with no pa instrument support. The Ampeg is rated 200watts at 4 ohms but I have heard it's actually around 260watts, I would exchange my GK for the Ampeg. Would I loose too much volume or would it be enough to power my 410 and 810 at around the same volume at me GK?

JimmyM · #2 06-25-2011, 01:24 PM

I think it's possible it would work out very well for you, especially if you like that slightly driven tone that the Micro VR gets. If it doesn't, the PF350 and PF500 will also get that sound and give you some extra wattage for not much more money.

RickenBoogie · #3 06-25-2011, 04:05 PM

...just don't use both cabs at the same time.

thisisausername · #4 06-25-2011, 05:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RickenBoogie

...just don't use both cabs at the same time.

I know, I never do, I use the 410 for practice and most gigs but sometimes I use the 810 when I need to move more air

mouthmw · #5 06-26-2011, 05:39 AM

Backline GK are a budget GK series. Maybe get an RB series GK? 700RB-II growls great, gets a nice slight overdrive with the boost control, and you get more watts - 480W. But if you don't dig the GK sound, then better go with the Ampeg.

allexcosta · #6 06-26-2011, 06:04 AM

If you're an Ampeg guy no GK will sound right to you...

The Micro VR is not loud at all, better get something else.

thisisausername · #7 06-26-2011, 06:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by allexcosta

If you're an Ampeg guy no GK will sound right to you...

The Micro VR is not loud at all, better get something else.

Im not getting the 210 cabinet, just the head, it will be used with a 410 or 810 depending on my situation at the time

S.B. · #8 06-26-2011, 06:52 AM

+1 with fellow Floridian -Jimmy M. The Ampeg PF350 or PF 500. Tried both and really like the Ampeg sound. I found the PF500 to have good head room and classic Ampeg sound. Very good $$ for what you get.

ljazz · #9 06-26-2011, 03:15 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mouthmw

Backline GK are a budget GK series. Maybe get an RB series GK? 700RB-II growls great, gets a nice slight overdrive with the boost control, and you get more watts - 480W. But if you don't dig the GK sound, then better go with the Ampeg.

The Backline 600 is a smoking killer little head. To me, it sounds better than the gk mb's. It actually growls easier than the 700rbII. It's basically the overseas made version of the now discontinued 400rbIV. Love my 700rbII, but sometimes the smaller 600 or 400rbIV would come in pretty handy.

Buzter · #10 07-23-2011, 07:04 PM

pf350 is prolly not enough juice. Seemed very "quiet" to me.

Quote:

Originally Posted by thisisausername

A few weeks ago I purchased a GK Backline 600 head, it's a pretty good head but it doesn't get that slightly driven tube-like sound that I really like. I was at guitarcenter a few days ago and came across the Ampeg Micro-VR head and was blown away by how much it sounded like it's $2300 tube big brother. My only concern is how loud it will be, I play through an Acoustic B410 (8ohms) and a Hartke 8x10 (paper cone, 4ohm) depending on the location of the gig, I play medium-large clubs (think The Crazy Donkey) and outdoor shows/block parties with no pa instrument support. The Ampeg is rated 200watts at 4 ohms but I have heard it's actually around 260watts, I would exchange my GK for the Ampeg. Would I loose too much volume or would it be enough to power my 410 and 810 at around the same volume at me GK?