B-15R

[ETThompson]

Justin

I know you've already sold the B-15R, I wanted to get your quick take on that as compared to a SVT-CL / 410HLF (gold standard for me but probably too large/impractical). If you could also compare to the Mesa Boogie 400+ that'd be great - these are ones I'm interested in upgrading to but having trouble finding ones to try out.

Thanks Eric

 

[jmjbassplayer]

Hi Eric,

That's a tough question for me, because between those, there's no real comparison...B-15 is a much "tidier" sound. More complex midrange than the rig you're describing, I'd say. Sits in the mix just right. Mesa 400+? A different beast entirely. Slightly more flat sounding but still big, tube-y and punchy. You can certainly compare a 400+ to an SVT-CL, though: both beastly tube monsters, the 400+ comes across more neutral sounding, while the SVT might come forth with a more immediately identifiable Ampeg sonic signature with a slight mid scoop and enhanced upper lows and that very particular grain on the top. 400+ has a very unique grind as well, though...just different.

I just think you're comparing apples to oranges to tangerines. Tangerine being the 400+ The B15 just doesn't really belong in that comparison, I'd say. Plus, I rarely use it live, so everything I'm telling you is more in the studio context.

Best,
Justin

 

[ETThompson]

JMJ - thanks for the helpful info, I know its an inappropriate question in a way...

Maybe a better way of phrasing it is (and this is my situation), you only get to have one rig that covers stage (up to medium size festivals) to studio (but not much of the latter). What's your go-to first choice rig? That's what I'm saving up for. If I can afford the SVT-CL, I'll probably do that because that plus the '73 maple-neck P is the tone I fell in love with, but it seems like overkill for my situation...

Or maybe a rig from Aguilar would be great sounding and more practical???

Thanks for your help,

Eric

 

[jmjbassplayer]

Dude...overkill or no overkill, GET THE TONE THAT YOU FELL IN LOVE WITH! That is your sound! It's going to be great on stage or in studio, that SVT-CL. Sure an Aguilar rig might be more practical and sound great (and certainly speaks to me, tonally), but the tone of the SVT-CL may indeed speak to you more. Follow your gut on this one.

Best,
Justin

 

[ETThompson]

I know what you're saying - and thanks! It's just, I haven't had the opportunity to try those others... and, I pretty much always love your tone, so I really trust your ears...

But, on the other hand, the SVT is a known love... Now I just gotta save up all that cash...and strengthen my muscles...

Thanks, Eric

 

[JimmyM]

Just remember that the load-in and out only takes a few minutes, but some gigs can last hours.

 

[brandau]

I kinda feel the need to add how much of your tone comes from you...not a new concept I know, but such an important one... Jmj is gonna sound like himself thru any rig... Being the audiophile he is(and we all are there are subtitle nuances achieved thru different gear...but ultimately it's you being amplified...

I've recently moved to NYC where almost every venue has a dogged out Hartke or similar(ahhhh!) and "sound check" is term seldom used... You've got about 5 to 10 min to dial on "your tone" and then your on...and you better rock out! It's been an incredible hands on lesson in finding your sound regardless...

Thats all I got -b

Oh, and def get that svt!

 

[JimmyM]

Tru dat, brandau. But some gear does make it easier to achieve than others, and some gear just plain sounds better. If the SVT on my rider somehow changes to a Behringer combo, though, I may not care for it but I'll make that bitch work!

 

[dsanders]

Just remember that the load-in and out only takes a few minutes, but some gigs can last hours.

+1 on this. Is it true that hauling up stairs can suck...yes. BUT I know when I haul out the big one it's going to perform and contribute more to the bands overall sound.

Fortunately we are playing alot of big stages lately an it's more than appropriate. When I'm just poping downtown for a pickup gig I take a much smaller rig.

In my band though I always bring out my DB410s and my DB 750 all in road cases. It just makes sense when you are going out of a trailer and up a stage ramp anyway.

Justin is right here. Whatever you need to drag out so that you concentrate on music instead of your rig just do it.