DNA v.s. Darkglass amp

[DuncanStan]

Hey fellow rumblers!

I was hoping to hear from people that have experience with both DNA 800/1350 and the Darkglass 900 as I am looking to acquire one of them!

I have many things that I'll need it to do. Firstly, I need something that will work well for jobbing gigs. I've done a lot of musicals and need a very solid versatile tone. I'm also in a Tool tribute and a Rage Against the Machine tribute that gigs regularly. And finally I'm in an instrumental progressive metal band with 3 saxes ( ).

I currently have a Darkglass Vintage Ultra that I use for drive, so I'm very familiar with the Darkglass overdrive. So, I realize the Darkglass amp gets the edge because of the distortion channel(s), but I also need a solid clean tone with a good amount of power.

Also, for reference, I have a DNA DNS 112 (which I love) and use an old Yorkville 200 watt 1x15 as a head/speaker. So, I know the quality of both DNA and Darklgass. The only issue for me is I'm in Toronto. There is a DNA dealer, so I can try one out. But no one here carries the Darkglass amp.

SO YEAH. I would just like to hear people's insight on this matter! I know I pretty much can't lose with either but your opinions/experiences are very appreciated! THANKS!

 

[lpbfender]

Mmmm having trouble with my recently bought DNA 800... retailer sent me to David Nordschow himself. One reply but there's no customer service nor way to return the amp fir warranty unless the owner eventually replies. So i would pass on DNA.

 

[JohnMSch_Bass]

How many people on this forum own a DNA-800? Has anyone besides lpbfender had a problem? I also have been considering purchasing one of these two amps to replace my Aguilar Tonehammer 500 and power my two DNS-112N cabinets. Should I consider the DNA-1350 instead?

 

[DuncanStan]

I'll also take any info on the DNA 1350, as I've only heard good things.

Mmmm having trouble with my recently bought DNA 800... retailer sent me to David Nordschow himself. One reply but there's no customer service nor way to return the amp fir warranty unless the owner eventually replies. So i would pass on DNA.

What was the issue? If you don't mind my asking.

 

[DuncanStan]

Mostly just looking for the tonal differences and output.

 

[lpbfender]

Just heard from DNA and sending the 800 in for service. My DNA according to DN was not operating properly.

 

[JohnMSch_Bass]

lpbfender, did DNA resolve your problem? What was the issue?

 

[lpbfender]

Just heard back from DN. He's replacing the amp with a new one. Hadn't said the problem but I'll take the new one.

 

[DuncanStan]

Thats good to hear!

Also, it looks like I'm pulling the trigger on a 1350.

 

[mrgoodbass]

How are you liking the 1350, do you think it's a keeper? I've played both the 800 and the 1350 (in a music store) and liked the 1350 better.

 

[Bass is base]

Mmmm having trouble with my recently bought DNA 800... retailer sent me to David Nordschow himself. One reply but there's no customer service nor way to return the amp fir warranty unless the owner eventually replies. So i would pass on DNA.

I bought a DNA 800 just over two years ago. I have never used it on a gig because I am more familiar with getting the tone dialled in with my Gallien Krueger 400RB. I was using my DNA at practise volume, at home, when it stopped working and the green light on the front started flashing. I have had the head at a repair technician's shop for a few months. He is waiting for parts from DNA. He said the part would cost about $200. This DNA 800 head has been the least reliable, most expensive bass amp I have owned. I have owned seven heads over a period of forty five years. The Gallien Krueger 200MB I bought forty five years ago has never stopped working.