Hey, I was just wondering if anyone has used the Gallien-Kruger Backline 600. I've been thinkin about getting one and just want some feedback before I go and buy one (tones, what cab you play with it, stuff like that) Thanks!
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Gallien-Kruger Backline 600
- Thread starter Bassangel44
- Start date
I had one for a while as a backup. When my other amp was in the shop, I did end up playing a number of restaurant and small club gigs with it. Although the distortion channel was not useful for my musical tastes, I found it to be quite competent. It provided plenty of push into a 4-ohm load, sounded fine, and was a good deal at $299 new.
At that price point, I think it's one of the better choices for new amps.
IMHO best buy for the money.
I found that it was fine for small to mid size gigs, but quickly runs out of headroom. I upgraded to 1001RB II.
I would seriously consider used. You should be able to find a nice 700 RB or 800RB for that price or a little higher. I found a great deal ($400) on a 2 year old 1001 RBII .
I am quite happy with my BL600 head, and have written a geeky review of it, which explains some details about the EQ. The BL600 is rated in honest RMS watts, and is well constructed inside. It combines proven design elements from other GK models. These are reasons why I think it is a cut above other entry level amps on the market.
With that said, when I bought the BL600 head, I felt that Class-D bass amp design had not quite come of age. This is no longer the case. I recently caved in and bought an EA Micro 300.
With that said, when I bought the BL600 head, I felt that Class-D bass amp design had not quite come of age. This is no longer the case. I recently caved in and bought an EA Micro 300.
I purchased a GK BL600 (300W @ 4ohms) about 6 months ago, and in that price bracket - I would do it all over again knowing what I know now. I am running it with a Carvin BR115 with horn. I love the real nice CLEAN, CLEAR sound. It has an Overdrive funtion (distortion) I find completely useless on it's 2nd channel, however the Contour function (mid-scoop) is fantastic. It also has a Boost function that I'm not quite sure how to describe what it does other than adds growl (?). Between the 4 band EQ, Contour, and Boost - you can get a vast array of tones, and extremely clear sound (didn't I say that once before?), and fairly loud too! 
butchblack
Life is short. Do good. Find and do what you love.
I'm using a Backline 600 into an Avatar SB112 neo cab, Great sounding combo. it's an 8 ohm cab so I'm only pushing about 180W. Plenty for small to medium sized rooms if you don't get foolish loud. If you are playing in a very loud band, the suggestion to find a used 1000RB is good. The backline Avatar combo is IMHO a great small lightweight system, something you appreciate as you get older.
Great amp, seriously. Use mine with a 2x10 as a standalone, or for too loud rehearsals and wider stages with crummy house PA I'll add a single 15 combo underneath and roll the low completely off the BL600.
You can have awesome clean tones, or use the boost for great aggressive tones. Quiet effects loop.
You can have awesome clean tones, or use the boost for great aggressive tones. Quiet effects loop.
I bought one about a month ago from a fellow TB'er for $200 used. I have paired it with an Aguilar S410 cab (4 ohms) so I am getting the full 300 watts (not that I really need them, I play at church). Great tone and response with both my 5-string Jazz and my Fender MIM fretless.
