GK 800RB Old VS Current model

[slapstick13]

Is there any difference between the 80s model 800rb and the current production ones? I've seen the power switch verticle on some models and horizontal on others. Is there any difference? Or has it literally been the exact same amp for 20 years? Getting ready to sell off my SVT and move back to solid state. Heard great things about these amps and I just want to know what to look out for in my search.

[slapstick13]

45 views and no response? Usually would at least get a "try using the search function arrrrgg!" I did search here, couldnt find anything about new vs. old. help!

[christw]

Try emailing GK? I know that some other RB's revisions (700 and 1001 coming to mind as RB-I or RB-II) but I can't tell you much more.

[smemm]

As far as I know the only change has been the transformer has gone from the old style to a toroidal style and some of the internals may have changed due to availability but from what I know they are essentially the same amp. Others may disagree. I have a 99' 800rb and it's an a**kicker.

[christw]

Originally Posted by smemm

As far as I know the only change has been the transformer has gone from the old style to a toroidal style and some of the internals may have changed due to availability but from what I know they are essentially the same amp. Others may disagree. I have a 99' 800rb and it's an a**kicker.

I figured it was still about the same save some minor changes to reflect the times. They seem to be coveted for what they were and still are. I figured it's like how Ampeg keeps making SVT's of minor variants. Small changes but still pretty similar.

[JoshuaTSP]

GK 800rb old/new??

Slightly different guts, same great sound.

The 700RB can sound very similar too.

[Vanni]

800RB (older vs. newer ones)

GK 800RB - new or old?

Old or New GK 800RB

[RC52]

I just picked up a 1987 GK800RB horizontal power switch. Unfortunately it does not have holes drilled to rack mount it , and prior owner removed the handle. I pm'd Bob G. But he said the handle they sell does not match up on older model ! Does anybody have a lead on old parts ? It's very awkward to carry in my arm!

[will33]

Originally Posted by RC52

I just picked up a 1987 GK800RB horizontal power switch. Unfortunately it does not have holes drilled to rack mount it , and prior owner removed the handle. I pm'd Bob G. But he said the handle they sell does not match up on older model ! Does anybody have a lead on old parts ? It's very awkward to carry in my arm!

IIRC, the originals didn't have rack ears that simply bolted on the side but rather were part of the sides of the amp chassis. You took off the flat side panels and put side panels on that had built in ears. May have better luck having a local metal shop fabricate you some panels/ears/handles.

Unless you can find an old, dead amp to rob parts from, if such a thing even exists.. To this day, still one of the best amps made.

[husky123]

Yeah it's gonna be tough to find an 800RB that doesn't work!

[RC52]

Thanks Will33 for the post! I guess finding a handle that will work is the probable end. It has taken me a couple of years to find one of the old 800 amps that fit my budget - $265 plus shipping. I absolutely love the tone ! It's my first 800. Had an '85 400 and loved it too!