• TalkBass has been independent since 1998. Add your voice.
    Create a free account to reply to discussions, view embedded media, and browse with fewer display ads.
    Join free Log in
    Want zero display ads or expanded classifieds tools? Compare plans.

800RB - Pretty impressive!

Hookus

Hookus

Oct 2, 2005
1,374
13
51
Austin, TX
#1
I just traded for one of these today, and must say, I'm impressed. The thing is from 1984, and looks like it was dug from Hiroshima, but I don't think I have ever heard a 300 watt solid state amp that was this loud. GK must have some conservative power ratings. I turned the tweeter off on my 4x10, and it sounded wonderful. These things have to represent one of the best possible values on the used market.

I always thought of GK stuff as garbage, even though the only GK I ever played through was a backline 2x10. I guess I learned a lesson about stereotyping today.
 
#2
congrats on the find.

Not too long ago I traded in an ashdown abm for a new GK 700RB. While the 700 doesn't quite have the mojo an '84 800 would, it still kicks ass. GK is definitely an underrated amp whose power ratings are most definitely conservative. I run mine through a Low Down Sound 1x15/3x10 that is sealed and I get a really thick vintage tone.
 
#3
I had mine for years and never had any issues. The 800rb is a standard of the industry and holds it's own right up there with the SVT and other classic heads.

The 800rb has a sound of its own and is extremely loud and powerfull for its size, weight and power rating.

A lot of guys, including myself, would try to "warm up" the tone by adding a tube preamp, BBE type device, or enhancer but really, I think all you need to make an 800rb sound great is to leave the mid scoop button off, dime the boost knob, boost both mid knobs a tad and leave the bass and treble flat.

I ran mine with an Eden 2x10 and 1x15 and it was a growly, punchy loud setup that really did all I ever needed. eventually GAS got the better of me and I moved on to other gear, but i will always have a soft spot for the 800rb and would never hesitate to play through one and get a great tone. Enjoy!
 
#5
Glad to hear you like the 800RB!

Modern GK amps have a special tone that carries on the legacy of the 800RB. Unlike most other SS amps, the growl you can get out of them rocks - it's slightly reminiscent of a tube amp, but still a voice all its own!

You can get anything from growly distortion (a la Death From Above 1979... and they didn't even use GK!) to a uniquely good SS overdrive (Who said SS amps couldn't sound good when dirty?) to awesome punchy slap tones (a la Red Hot Chili Peppers) to warm clean tones... and more.

GK amps are some of the most versatile on the market. Combine it with their Neo cabinets, and they'll cover any gig you've got, in just about any style. :bassist:
 

Latest posts

Top Bottom
Back