PF500 or SVT450?

blisterplease · #1 08-15-2011, 07:07 AM

Hey everyone, i'm pretty new to this forum so you'll have to pardon me if this thread is misplaced, has already been posted, etc.

Anyway, my Ampeg SVT3 Pro has been giving me problems and making me angry so i have been looking to replace it for some time. I recently came upon the opportunity to purchase a used Ampeg SVT450 and B115 cabinet together for $450. Is this a solid deal? I've also been considering one of the new Portaflex 500 amps because it also has a sweet price tag and a buttload of features.

I'm interested to hear your opinions- any feedback would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

rodl2005 · #2 08-15-2011, 07:19 AM

No contest IMO. PF500!

tdub0199 · #3 08-15-2011, 07:32 AM

I had a SVT 450H and did not like it at all.... I would go with the PF500...

stiles72 · #4 08-15-2011, 07:51 AM

As an owner of a pair of 3-Pros and the PF500, I wouldn't go with the SVT-450. If you like your 3-Pro when it's not giving you problems, the 450 will dissapoint you. However, you probably will be surprised by the PF500 - its got just as much power/balls as the 3-Pro, and can get some really nice tones for an 11lb package. The compressor feature works similar to the tube gain (plate voltage) on your 3-Pro, but the effect is opposite: to the right is soft, to the left is more defined. On the 3-Pro, the "tube"/soft sound is to the left and the "solid state" sharper sound is to the left.

Getting back to your 3-Pro, what problem are you experiencing?

3-Pros do need to have their tubes replaced around the 5 year mark, and also the MOSFET bias needs to be adjusted as needed. That is something I wouldn't recommend doing yourself - I'd take it in as it only should run you a bench fee.

blisterplease · #5 08-15-2011, 08:08 AM

Well, the first 3-Pro I had a power issue (wouldn't turn on), and the one I have now makes this horrible poppy static noise that progressively gets worse the longer i leave it on. It doesn't even have to have an instrument plugged into it! Ugh.

So i sent it to LOUD for repair, and i'm probably going to sell it shortly after they send it back because it's truly a horrible feeling not being able to rely on your equipment. The thing was only 6 months old.

Would you say your PF500 is a pretty reliable unit?

stiles72 · #6 08-17-2011, 06:52 PM

I've only had my PF for a couple months now, and just recently starting gigging it. I took it apart and it looks to be very well made. I guess I figure for reliability, any electronics device can crap out - so as long as there is a good warranty I wouldnt worry about it.

stiles72 · #7 08-17-2011, 06:55 PM

One thing to consider also - is that the 3-Pro design has essentially been around since 1992/1993. It's a proven design - or it wouldn't still be around today. If they send you a replacement or just fix it - I wouldnt write it off. Mine have been used actively since '98 and I've had a couple of maintainance issues, but that comes with the territory.

jamzcl · #8 08-17-2011, 07:57 PM

PF500

Just sold my SVT450 and it handled everything I needed it to do over the years - BUT I sold it to fund the PF500 and couldn't be happier.

More portable, more watts and GREAT tone - can't go wrong!

The only thing you'd be missing out on is the Classic style head.....but the PF500 has a sweet purple-ish light

JimmyM · #9 08-17-2011, 08:26 PM

I agree with Stiles 100%. It's probably something very fixable in your 3 Pro, and you'll most likely get it back from Ampeg good as new. Honestly, it just sounds like a bum tube to me. Happens.

And I don't have a PF500 but I have a Micro VR and it's been rock solid for over 8 months now...same basic technology.