Double Bass BIG differences between original AI Contra and the Series III?

[Pat Harris]

Hey all,

I'm hoping to someday get a new combo that delievers the goods and won't destroy my back in the process. I'm interested in the AI Conta, and I know there's a few for sale around here for $500+ that are the original model, and then the newer Series III is $1k. Are there any significant differences that would justify spending $400 more on the new Series III than just picking up a used original Contra? It seems like Series III has a tweeter, is a bit smaller and packs more power. Any and all info is always greatly appreciated. Thanks!

-Pat

 

[bolo]

Pat, I would recommend maybe contacting Bob Branstetter via email or PM. Of of course he may chime in on this thread too, unprompted.

Here is a thread that Bob started that might begin to answer some of your questions.

 

[Bob Branstetter]

Hey all,

I'm hoping to someday get a new combo that delivers the goods and won't destroy my back in the process. I'm interested in the AI Contra, and I know there's a few for sale around here for $500+ that are the original model, and then the newer Series III is $1k. Are there any significant differences that would justify spending $400 more on the new Series III than just picking up a used original Contra? It seems like Series III has a tweeter, is a bit smaller and packs more power. Any and all info is always greatly appreciated. Thanks!

-Pat

I used a Series I AI Contra for over 5 years and loved it. When the Series II came out, I saw little reason to switch. However, when Rick Jones announced the Series III Coda, I knew I had to have one. I had always thought the Series I was pretty small for a bass amp, but when you put a Series I next to a Series III, it is amazing how much smaller and lighter it is. For me it was the weight (or rather lack of weight) and greater power that I liked the most. When you've got a bad back and had two total knee replacements, 5 or 6 less pounds (20 lbs total) is a big deal. When I had the Series I, big band jobs were sometimes a problem. There were rooms where I simply could not get enough volume to be heard and on outdoor jobs, I could barely hear myself. With my Series III Coda, I have plenty of power for most any job, and there is even enough power to drive a (front firing) extension speaker for those big auditorium and outdoor jobs where floor coupling doesn't work.

Perhaps the best reason for you to decide on a new Series III model as opposed to a Series I is the AI warranty. Acoustic Image gives a 5 year warranty and a Series I could very likely be out of warranty. Acoustic Image's after sale service is 2nd to none. On those very rare occasions were something goes wrong, AI seems to bend over backward to help you get your amp back in service quickly. I once had a problem on a Saturday night job and I emailed AI on Sunday afternoon. I had a reply back within an hour and they used Fed-X next day service to get me what I need to fix it complete with great instructions - all at no change. I had my amp back in service by Tuesday afternoon. They designed the amp so that the user could fix most things without taking it to a electronics tech for service.

I'm sure you would be happy with either one, but the Series III offers more usable features than were available when the Series I models were made. Notch and low cut filters, Phantom power for using a mic, permanently attached retractable legs for tilting it, carrying strap, electronic effects, and Much More Power. If you think you might want to use a mic on your bass in the future, you should seriously consider getting the 2 channel Coda. These amps are built to last and you are probably going to live with this amp for a long time.

 

[Basschair]

I'm hoping this will help:

I was in the EXACT same situation a week ago..."should I buy the new one? Should I just pick up one of the originals?" I figured there were plenty of good reasons to go with the III series.

Still, I bought one of the used originals for one main reason: money. For now, I've got one weekly gig (church chamber orchestra) where I'll be mainly using it. It sounds amazing, and is one of the best investments I've made in a long time. So, as long as you get one that's working, you can't go wrong with one of the originals.

This isn't to say that the III series wouldn't be worth it. I haven't tried one, but haven't read one negative comment on it yet. Once I'm in need and I have the funds available, I'll step up to the new model without thinking twice.

If you need the extra power (not to mention the warranty...that's always a good thing), get the new one and have fun. It seems like you'd be just about guaranteed to like it.

 

[Pat Harris]

Hey everyone, thanks for all of the great input. I have all intentions of getting a Series III, the only problem, Michigan weather is hideous, I got in a minor car accident and have to fix that first It sounds like if you've got the $$$ a Series III is the way to go. I've heard nothing but good things, and if for whatever reason it isn't my bag, it appears that BobGollihur has an awesome return policy.

Thanks,
Pat