Genz Benz Shuttle 9.0 discussion thread

[bassman blue]

That's a nice case.
How much do they run?

got mine off ebay for $75 which included shipping...

 

[MIJ-VI]

Let me clarify on some of the speculations regarding the differences in the various perceived differences between the GBE, Shuttles and ShuttleMax's to keep this thread from becoming one of constant second-guessing.

All of these amps were designed and voiced by the same folks. Without pigeon-holing any particular model, the criteria considered things like the size and tuning of the specific cabinet class, style of music and expected SPL, type of player and (to a small degree) their skill and experience level that the class of amp is likely to be used with. All of these amps are switchable between 115/230/240V, making them more attractive to the international touring guys.

For example, the Shuttle 3.0 is unlikely to be desireable to a heavy metal or thrash player because it does not have enough power to be an even remotely reasonable choice but it is definately popular amongst players of Jazz, rock, causals, theatre, praise/worship, and harder styles with good PA support. Also, the 3.0 is popular amongst folks who consider size and weight of the entire rig (including speakers) of prime importance, so to accomodate this the highpass filter is set slightly higher then our other models, which improves the performance of both the amp and the typical sub-compact speakers (by any manufacturer) way down low. Note that the pre-eq DI out on all of our amps is pre HPF, so the signal you send to the board is full bandwidth (all good PA's HPF the subs anyway, so it's not something we need to address and to double up on HPF's would compromise performance).

The Shuttle 6.0 is a more mainstream amp, still probably not the ideal hard-core/metal/thrash amp due to the limited power unless good PA support is available, but will drive larger cabinets with ease. It's voicing includes a HPF with a slightly lower turnover frequency and when combined with the remaining filter and preamp voicing, is more solid into compact and larger cabinets. The LF extend frequency, slope, Q and symmetry is also voiced to improve overall performance into the larger cabinets. The tube voicing also contributes to the perceived warmness, though it's been kept somewhat subtle to be used as a tool rather than jumping out screaming TUBE OVERDRIVE. The Pre-eq DI out is before the HPF's, so into a real PA, there's zero compromise regarding LF bandwidth. This is a popular amp amongst our touring users who must rely on fly dates, it's a simple, straight ahead, compact, lightweight amp with features that a more pro player is likely to need.

The Shuttle 9.0 is very similar to the 6.0, but again has a very slightly lower HPF frequency because we have additional headroom to work with and it's unlikely that this amp would be used (at high volumes or extended low end) with sub-compact cabinets, so we have more margin to work with. The 9.0 pairs nicely with cabinets from the compact (like Neo-X 212) on up, but I caution against expecting such performance with sub-compact speakers like the STL series (or those by other manufacturers) since the amp has too much power and runs the risk of overdriving models without adequate power handling and LF excursion limiting tuning. The 9.0 would be an amp to consider for all styles provided it's paired up to a cabinet that's also suitable.

The ShuttleMax's are very similar to the Shuttle's, there is a slight difference in the voicing because of the added gain (switched) in the front end, the variable tone shaping & voicing filters, additional eq, and slightly different signal path topology. This is why they sound a little different than the Shuttles, and with the Max 12.0 used with 2 x 4 ohm speakers, of course there will be significant additional headroom which does help an amp open up when driven hard. The voicing is probably closest to the 9.0 but must be taken in context with the additional feature set. The Max 12.0 is another amp suitable for all styles when paired with an appropriate cabinet choice. The Max 12 also contains a back-up power supply that will run the entire preamp and second power amp in the unlikely event of a module failure. I do not know of this feature being used at this point, but it's nice to know it's there if you need it.

The GBE 750 & 1200 uses similar but at the same time different signal path topology, clearly these amps are not for a player looking for sub-compact or lightweight so the voicing assumes they will be used with compact or larger cabinets and high volume and low frequency extension are expected. The input voicing is a little different, the slopes and response of the HPF and the interaction with the voicing filters consider the likely player and cabinet type (certaily a better choice for hard core, thrash and heavier metal) to gove an overall different flavor within our typical voicing. The tube channel has a little more gain than the Shuttle 6/9 but less than the Max 12. The 750/1200 will both drive 2 ohm loads directly, the Max will drive a 2 ohm load comprised of 2 x 4 ohm cabinets, each driven by it's own amp module.

All in all, the differences in voicing and LF response between the Shuttle 6/9 and Max 6/12 is really very, very small. Some is due to a perception because there is additional power available which allows for more headroom when playing harder. IIRC, the difference is between 5 and 7Hz, there will be maybe as much variation in speaker response & tuning given the tolerances of the average drivers in a production sampling. Another thing to consider when evaluating perceived warmth is the contribution of the tube, and the variability that each tube brings to the table. While we have tried to minimze the variability between tube samples in the design, we have not eliminated this, so easc tube will sound slightly different.

So, for the techies here I hope this helps, and for you other guys I hope it didn't bore you to death.

Very helpful.

 

[MIJ-VI]

Yes it does. Ed Friedland did a nice review on youtube and explained the tonal difference.

Genz Benz Shuttle 9.0

 

[Dr Funk]

OK so I have tried just about all the micro's live on the gig over the last 6 months and my shuttle 9.0 has really become my go to amp for 90% of my gigs. I just can't get over it's warm articulate tone. I've been really critical of all of them and skeptical of their capabilities. I guess the cream eventually rises to the top. Bottom line is all of my basses sound great through this amp. This is the biggest distinction of the 9.0 and the LMTube800 that I couldn't ignore. I mean my passive Fenders sounded great through the LMT800 but my active basses not so. And I didn't even factor in that the "Genz Gang" are clearly the best product support team in the business. It's a micro that covers it all for me.
My micro-amp gas has subsided... for now.

 

[buffordbass]

OK so I have tried just about all the micro's live on the gig over the last 6 months and my shuttle 9.0 has really become my go to amp for 90% of my gigs. I just can't get over it's warm articulate tone. I've been really critical of all of them and skeptical of their capabilities. I guess the cream eventually rises to the top. Bottom line is all of my basses sound great through this amp. This is the biggest distinction of the 9.0 and the LMTube800 that I couldn't ignore. I mean my passive Fenders sounded great through the LMT800 but my active basses not so. And I didn't even factor in that the "Genz Gang" are clearly the best product support team in the business. It's a micro that covers it all for me.
My micro-amp gas has subsided... for now.

Very accurate description... and you should listen, he IS a Dr.

(sorry, I couldnt let that pass, too easy....)

 

[Mastermold]

Yeah GB's product and customer service is the best I've had personally. Oh, and I too am a Doctor!

 

[Mastermold]

Genz Benz Shuttle 9.0

I ended up ordering an Uber 410 (4 ohm). UPS says it arrives tomorrow.

 

[Red Planet]

Shuttle 9.0

Just what the Doctor ordered.

I have been extremely pleased with my 9.0. It has a warmer vintagey gooey tone thing going that is very apparent on it's own but really starts to come out in a full band setting.

 

[Gab124]

This seems like a good thread to ask - what are the tonal and performance differences between the 9.0 and a Thunderfunk 550B? FWIW I play a passive fender - but with pretty hot pups. I may soon join this club.

 

[Fretlessboy]

+2

Very accurate description... and you should listen, he IS a Dr.

(sorry, I couldnt let that pass, too easy....)

 

[MIJ-VI]

I ended up ordering an Uber 410 (4 ohm). UPS says it arrives tomorrow.

Mr. Friedland makes compelling videos.

 

[svtb15]

For one thing the Shuttle 9 is somewhat louder than the TF550b.

I had a TF.. its a great amp with nice clean and warm tonality...very clear..and its made well... I can not saying anything bad about it.. just that it was not loud enough for some gigs..

When i work with some louder Texas style guitar players ,it would squash when i really need it to put out..
Never played the 750 though.

The shuttle 9.0 is warm, and punchy with some nice reserve.
It has been a long time since i had the TF and i don't remember enough and have not done a AB test at all... but i think the Shuttle has a fuller bottom end when set flat .. Plus it has a 12ax7 tube and if you have a hot bass you can get tube grind if you so wish.
If not then just lower the input gain and will get as clean as a whistle..
The headphone out on the 9 is a useful feature as well a a great DI. And at 4 pounds, it is a no brainer for the working bass player that needs to move some air in a lightweight box..

This seems like a good thread to ask - what are the tonal and performance differences between the 9.0 and a Thunderfunk 550B? FWIW I play a passive fender - but with pretty hot pups. I may soon join this club.

 

[jokerjkny]

For one thing the Shuttle 9 is somewhat louder than the TF550b.

I had a TF.. its a great amp with nice clean and warm tonality...very clear..and its made well... I can not saying anything bad about it.. just that it was not loud enough for some gigs..

When i work with some louder Texas style guitar players ,it would squash when i really need it to put out..
Never played the 750 though.

The shuttle 9.0 is warm, and punchy with some nice reserve.
It has been a long time since i had the TF and i don't remember enough and have not done a AB test at all... but i think the Shuttle has a fuller bottom end when set flat .. Plus it has a 12ax7 tube and if you have a hot bass you can get tube grind if you so wish.
If not then just lower the input gain and will get as clean as a whistle..
The headphone out on the 9 is a useful feature as well a a great DI. And at 4 pounds, it is a no brainer for the working bass player that needs to move some air in a lightweight box..

interesting, cause i was a bit of the reverse...

tried the 9.0 the other day, and it didnt quite wow me over to replace my tfb550b. thru a gs112, which is what i've been using these days, the 9.0 is a nice amp. fast under the fingers, and has a great upper end articulation that sounds gorgeous and round w/ faster slap passages. you can really hear the windings! also, i much prefer the black faceplate. pretty slick looking, tho the red script has got to go. unfortunately, i couldnt quite dial in that present meatiness that i can so easily find w/ my tfb.

now dont get me wrong, my back and i REALLY wanted to like the 9.0. but again, like most other ultralite amps i've tried, the overall lower end register just felt rather diffuse no matter how i set the EQ, especially vs. the similarly wattaged aguilar db751 that i was also trying at the time. i dont want to be glib and say, it was like eating clear chicken stock vs. a hearty chili, but again, this experience only corroborates the idea in my head, that maybe i'm a heavy iron kinda guy.

 

[svtb15]

I hear ya... we all hear and dig different stuff.. I do like the TF amps.. My TF550 just could not keep from that pesky limiter from squashing stuff... even when disengaged... I really dig the SM12 with the 2 mid band para.... i run almost nearly flat most of the time with only a tint tweak hear and there... and it seems to drive my cabs better than the TF did.
Again i liked the TF alot.. but i felt as if it was always running in the red...

PS .. just to clarify... i was referring to the newer TF750 not the db750 above

 

[Mike Flynn]

OK so I have tried just about all the micro's live on the gig over the last 6 months and my shuttle 9.0 has really become my go to amp for 90% of my gigs. I just can't get over it's warm articulate tone. I've been really critical of all of them and skeptical of their capabilities. I guess the cream eventually rises to the top. Bottom line is all of my basses sound great through this amp. This is the biggest distinction of the 9.0 and the LMTube800 that I couldn't ignore. I mean my passive Fenders sounded great through the LMT800 but my active basses not so. And I didn't even factor in that the "Genz Gang" are clearly the best product support team in the business. It's a micro that covers it all for me.
My micro-amp gas has subsided... for now.

That's good to know - I've just made my 9.0 my one and only amp (for now) having parted with my beloved UL502 - I agree the articulation of the tone is just brilliant - when I compared it to the lovely warm sound from my Epifani I noticed that the notes sounded more defined and far clearer through my GB - plus I have a Jazz style bass and a modern sounding Single Cut and both sound wonderful through the amp - likewise my fretless. The size of thing is still unnerving but the sound is just awesome - I'm gigging it again on Friay and I can't wait...

Mike

 

[Gab124]

Great - thanks for the comparison. I too have noticed a bit of a compression in the TF550 when pushed - even David himself will attest to that - and that it is "fixed" in the 750 - though some prefer the 550 sound from my findings. I am still thinking, and have my 550 in classifieds right now. If it sells I will be going with the 9.0.

 

[svtb15]

I see your zip is 74XXX.. where are you in Texas.. you can try my 9.0 or 12.0 if you are close.. I am in Dallas this week but heading to Austin on Sunday.

Like i said time and time again ...i liked the TF amps alot when i had mine..
One thing you will notice is that your cabs will breathe a whole lot more with the 9.0....

I told Dave years ago, that he had to make a 1000 watt amp and stop pussy footing around with and extra 50 watts here and there... bass players like headroom..
and the shuttle 9.0 does have headroom in a small light box

Great - thanks for the comparison. I too have noticed a bit of a compression in the TF550 when pushed - even David himself will attest to that - and that it is "fixed" in the 750 - though some prefer the 550 sound from my findings. I am still thinking, and have my 550 in classifieds right now. If it sells I will be going with the 9.0.

 

[Red Planet]

Gentlemen I had an all out epiphany last night using my 9.0.

I had been using my MarkBass LMIII into a Golight 4x10 at our rehearsal studio and keeping my Shuttle 9.0 at home for use with other purposes with my 2x10 and 1x15 cabs.

Of late I had been struggling with my tone quite a bit. I could get the modern tone covered but the old school tone I just could not dial it in. I tried everything and even posted a thread about it. I tried a pedal which sounded pretty cool but I really am not into pedals much.

I have an SWR 8 OHM gOLIGHT 1X15 cab I wnated to give a shot for it's more bottom heavy vintage tone but the stinking LMIII just would not pump it hard enough and it would fart out.

Fast forward to last night. We had band rehearsal in our recording studio in Atlanta and I took the Shuttle 9.0 along with my Golight 1x15. I had not had a chance to try it that way but after thinking about it, with the Shuttle's way higher 8 ohm ability and that whole Warm Round Gooey thing, it really was a no brainer.

The combination was pure magic. Using the more traditional sounding 1x15 cab, coupled with the 9.0's ability to put out 500 watts at 8 ohms, and the overall tone of the 9.0 was just bliss.

My band mates were well pleased. This particular project calls for everything from a more modern funk tone to a traditional blues/jazz swing. Oddly enough I'm able to cover both using my tone control on my Bass (CTS pots & paper in oil cap) and just play.

I may try and trade off the LMIII for a fret-less bass. Or just use it at home.

 

[Michael Vee]

I've heard a crackling sound here and there with my 9.0. I'd previously experienced it in my 6.0, but cleaned out the effects return jack and cleared it up. This time- no go. Not only was it worse and steady, it was getting louder as the amp warmed up. It turned into a roar.

After cleaning the effect return jack to no avail, I popped the top, removed the preamp tube, and cleaned the pins with DeoxIT Gold. While I had the tube out, I put two silicone tube dampener rings on it. I then put everything back together- and not only was the crackling gone, the amp sounded much better right away.

Apparently, the tube pins and socket had oxidized. Cleaning the pins made an impressive improvement in the sound.

I'm thinking that the improvement in sound I heard in my 6.0 when I replaced the stock tube with the 12AX7LPS may have been due to cleaning the pins! That would be consistent also with what Andy said about the tube choice not making that much difference in the sound of the amp.

 

[Red Planet]

Whats famous about it? I do not see that much concerning any issues.


Tube socket oxidizing? Give me a break. You play on the deck of a cruise ship?

What was the brand of that there tube?

BTW lubricated contact cleaner is cheap.