A SWR 550X and SVT3Pro showdown

[Creese]

So after 11 years of hard service my previous SVT3Pro has become unreliable. In a pinch I got a great deal on a new one, but also to be fair I'd been eyeing a 550x. Well the 550x came today and I'm trying to decide which one I like better.

Both have their pluses.

Ampeg: Uber reliable; foot switchable mute; second channel
SWR: Simple design/control; cleaner more accurate sound IMO; more headroom

I don't like how the speaker on/off for the SWR is on the back of the amp, but I love the Aural Enhancer. The Subwave thing is freaking worthless tho.

I seem to be able to contour them to sound very similar but there's something about that SWR that sings to me- the harmonics really ring on my Thumb NT6. But at the same time I love the options/functionality/practicality on the Ampeg.

Anyone have any words of wisdom?

(I'm using an old-school Eden 410T cab)

 

[ihixulu]

"there's something about that SWR that sings to me"

That about says it all, no?

 

[rodl2005]

I love the Ampeg SVT3 tone & being able to put the tube voltage pot on full(left) & turn the gain up(so it clips reg.) & gives a good growly drive = love for me! Even tho I traded it on an ALL tube head! Thats my 2c.

 

[Plain Old Me]

IMO, I hope you don't play loud or without PA support; neither of those heads is especially powerful... I like the 3-Pro's tone better, but its personal prefrence.

 

[Low D.]

I ve used both, and i have a Warwick Thumb 6string myself.... SVT3 didnt work for me at all! Even at practise i couldnt get some good clear AND loud tones, so I took it back and went back to my SWR heads once again. I believe the 550x its a much better amp head overall.
I ve just heard the tracks in your myspace profile (and added u as a friend), first of all wanna say the tracks kick butt and the bass is awsome. And still believe that the 550x is a better choice and u ll be happy with it!

 

[opium89]

My opinion is they are both under powered and you can get a much better amp with better tone and nuts for the same or less $$$. At least go with the 750 if you're gonna go SWR.

You know what they say about opinions right? ()*()

 

[Jim Carr]

Those are both fine amps. Get both, and use one as a spare!

 

[Buzz]

The Subwave thing is freaking worthless tho.

When we play "Seven Nation Army" from White Stripes, I use the subwave effect and it sounds pretty damn cool. When used as a "spice" in the meal, it has it's place. (Gee, suddenly I'm hungry.)

Enjoy!

Buzz