H&K Quantum vs Basskick

ogar · #1 08-07-2010, 02:37 AM

Hi folks,

recently, I've got enamored with H&K Quantum QC310. Problem is, I am moving back to Europe and for variety of reasons, I can't take the combo with me. It is discontinued for couple of years now. The new line is called Basskick and it resembles Quantums a lot. Does any of you actually had a chance to compare these two (ideally side by side)? Is the new Basskick just a cheaper version of Quantum, made from different components, or did they just re-badged to kick the sales up? Or is the design similar just superficially and they sound totally different?

cheers

Ales

jwindham · #2 08-07-2010, 07:24 AM

Hey there,

I have been using a basskick 300 watt single 15" combo for the last 4 years. It is pretty powerful with a decent EQ/preamp. However, it does not offer very much warmth. I am a passive p-bass kinda guy, and I always feel that I have plenty of volume.

However, I also find that it seems to be "missing" the meat/potatoes to properly "sit in the mix" in the mids/low mids. Its very focused on the high mids, and just doesn't quite ever sound warm enough. I have heard that the quantum series is much warmer/tubier/fatter, but is still very quick. My guess is that the basskick is the "poor man's" quantum.

Still, it is impressive for a combo in volume. It is however quite heavy/awkward to move around. I sometimes feel that a larger cab with wheels would be easier. The Genz Benz neo212x is AMAZINGLY light and much punchier IMHO.

ogar · #3 08-08-2010, 12:53 AM

Hmmmm, what I like about quantum is exactly the 'meat and potatoes' being present. Some sort of low-mid character, that articulates my P with flats very nicely and blends it to the mix. It is probably due to the mix of the voicing of the cabinet and acoustic of our rehearsal room (lecture hall), but I cut the bass completely, boost low and hi mids just a tiny bit and leave hf character flat (as it doesn't do much anyway). Tube growl all the way up and... here we go.

I agree about the perceived volume, the dynavalve design seems to be working similar way, as the TC electronics use at their RH and classic models.

I was thinking about removing head from combo and taking it with me. With some efficient cab, it would definitely be enough for the type of gigs I play. Unfortunately, the internal voltage is not switchable and I'd have to either change the transformer or use step-up external... darn.

Thanks for sharing your experience.

jwindham · #4 08-08-2010, 08:45 AM

My pleasure to help! Its been a true reliable amp, but just left me wanting more. Hughes & Kettner is a top notch company, but you really don't find their bass amps in the states much. There truly is nothing 'tubey" about the Basskick. I think you would find, like myself, that you could never quite dial in the sound "in your head." You seem to have a great idea what it is your looking for and I am sure you will find it in another amp!

The TC electronic amps do sound fantastic however!

ogar · #5 08-08-2010, 04:58 PM

Hey,
thanks for kind words. For some reasons, they're quite rare in Europe too. Actually, they're also more expensive there (especially after the MF blow-out of Quantums in states, it's ridiculous, how little costs used QC310 given its quality).

Yeah RH450 is great option, I so regret it selling one to fund my daughter's dental surgery. I am afraid I won't have dough for buying one, as they're more expensive in Europe either... oh well, I may as well end up playing through the PA, been there for two years and it wasn't to bad either.

cheers

jwindham · #6 08-08-2010, 07:04 PM

I hear ya man. Sometimes you gotta do what ya gotta do. But, you'll find that perfect combo again, and when your ready it will be worth the wait! I have been waiting a long time to find the right amp, but I also will use what I need to in the meantime to keep playin'. Even if its the tinniest practice amp out there! PA, not so bad