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Do I need a new amp?

S

Scott549

Oct 26, 2009
427
11
Madison, Wisconsin
www.willsband.net
#1
Looking for some thoughts from the great TB community.

Do I need a new amp? I'm using an old, cheap GK Backline 600. It's plenty loud. And I'm getting my tone from a VT Bass Deluxe pedal. Is there any advantage in upgrading the amp to an Ampeg PF500 or SVT-3Pro or a GK MB500 or MB Fusion? Would a tube preamp make any difference in my setup, and/or would it give me better sound than the VT pedal?
 
#2
I'll rile up the GASaholics around here and say stick with what you have. If it's got the volume you need, it'll work just fine. The VT bass deluxe is a mighty fine and versatile piece of gear that does decent tube emulation. I think spending money on a tube preamp hybrid will give you different flavors of tone, but not necessarily better or more advantageous.
 
#5
Chances are you are getting a nice sound from that setup but secretly yearn for a new amp and want us to enable you..... which we are happy to do!!!

All kidding aside, there might be advantages to having some of those other amplifiers such as slightly more power but that’s about it. The GK backline 600 is a nice amp with built in overdrive that should be getting you a warm sound in conjunction with the VT pedal. If you just HAVE to have a tube in your setup there are plenty of preamps and even pedals that can get the job done. If you do upgrade I would recommend the GK Fusion. GK’s amps seem to have a faster response than any other amp I’ve owned/played but I would stay away from the light weight class D amplifiers. Other guys will burn me for saying this but they just can’t bring the fury and aren’t as punchy.
 
#9
You obviously do not need a new amp. But you may want one, out of a desire or curiosity to try something new and shake up your sound a bit. It's called GAS. It's not rational, but it's real.
 
#12
Thread title should read "Pump up my Gas"

Cabs will do more for instant tone than a different amp at this stage. Between the vt and the basic amp you're pretty good. Have a go at a fearful or bfm's.

There was someone who did a lot of cabinet design and measurement who did a test on the Backline EQ. I forget his handle. He publishes his findings on a blog. Upshot, easy to get very flat response and colour from there.

How's your pedal supply? Now there's gas that never runs out. Muahahahaha!
 

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