• 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.

Ampeg versus Gallien Krueger

G

Greevus

Apr 15, 2009
1,202
93
#1
I was a GK loyalist for 20 years and recently switched to all Ampeg (SVT Classic and 410hlf cabinets). VERY powerful and full tone for sure. I just found an old GK 800RB that was in a closet due to being broken down. I took it in and the amp tech figured out it was an internal fuse in the power supply. I never had a clue and after being stored for a decade I took it in to the jam room. I was shocked when I put the 800RB up against the SVT. It held its own pretty damn well. The SVT was a tad heavier in the low end, but the GK had a bit more punch. The GK has a very nice growl as well. In the end I had to run each head combined through its own 410hlf cab and that is GOD. I hate too many choices anyways. These two are my fave brands for years, but I really like the simplicity of the GKs. The SVT is fantastic, but the maintenance and weight and delicacy moving it are the downsides. I think I will be using the combo for a while though. I enjoy watching the looks on my bandmates faces when they ask "can you turn down just a LITTLE?"....:bassist:
 
#10
allexcosta said:
For the 1.864.145.642nd time: Play whatever you like, it's your money and your music.
Click to expand...

You are totally right, but it's human nature to need some validation, especially when it comes to making decisions that are six of one, half a dozen of the other. It's a compliment that he respects talkbass community enough to ask its opinions. Again, you are right, choosing for one's self is the best if one has the means to do so...but there's nothing wrong with giving someone a pat on the back and saying 'good choice' from time to time. :)
 
#12
Dude didn't try to offend anyone with his choices or insinuate his playing is any better than anyone else's by his choices of equipment. I'm back on the Ampeg, but I'm totally behind whatever someone else uses as long as they respect my choices.
 
#13
Greevus said:
The SVT is fantastic, but the maintenance and weight and delicacy moving it are the downsides.
Click to expand...

This is what still gets me. Did someone pay off someone 20 years ago to continue to say this crap about tube heads? Of the 10 or so tube amps I've owned, I've broken one tube, in one head, ever. And that was because I left it in my trunk over a few nights and the temp dropped below freezing. I've dropped my V4 (in the road case at least) from off of my cab while rolling down the sidewalk for a gig and pulled it out with no damage, set it up, and played the gig an hour or so later.

As far as the weight, well, just think of the heavy lifting as a free workout at the gym.
 
#15
I second the OP's mention of using Ampeg cabs powered by an GK (800rb) head.

Of all the different heads/cabs I have owned and used throughout the years, this combination has always been my fave.

I have had a few bass players in the past (whom said they use a SVT tube head/810) come up and tell me after a show they dug my tone and add thats the tone they are looking for.
 
#16
Okay I'll weigh in. Tube amps ARE reliable, but they do sound their best only when maintained. Things will break on a tube amp and things will break on a SS amp. That amp head is YOUR investment, treat it badly and you WILL pay either way. I've owned the best all tube amps, SS of the past and now the (IMO) the a SS icon and the next icon hybrid. The last all tube amp I had is now making someone else very happy (I hope). Ampeg was......G-K still is and other new comers are giving new wonderful choices. I just can't see hauling a heavy all tube head anymore, I have enough PA crud to deal with. When it finaly comes time for me to setup (hey you guys want to have bass tonight) I am very happy to sling my hybrid on top of its cab so I can have some fun. (Your in channel 4 turn your own self up!) :)
 

Latest posts

Top Bottom
Back