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GK 1001 RB II or Fusion 550?

Which Head would choose?

  • GK 1001RB-II

    Votes: 39 52.0%

  • GK Fusion 550

    Votes: 29 38.7%

  • Other GK Head and explain

    Votes: 7 9.3%
  • Total voters
    75
T

totallybacan

Mar 30, 2009
553
4
21804
www.myspace.com
#1
As the title suggests, I'm torn between the two. Volume wise, I hear that they are plently loud for clubs without PA. Tone, they are slightly different but neither is considered bad at all.
If i was going solely off of price i would choose the 1001. another plus for the 1001 is the lack of motorized knobs. i think it would be cool to have a second channel, but the durability seems like it could be an issue. However, the sound from the 550 combined with the natural compression seems like a definite plus. They are both within my price range but I can't seem to decide between either.
 
#4
700 RB-II. The 1000 watts are simply too much ... in all practical environments you will be playing just half a notch above "idle", which does your tone no good. Downsizing the amp puts you closer to the "sweet spot" as the amp has to work a bit harder...
 
#7
This is tough. But if growl is the goal, you should also consider the 700RB-II.

While the motorized knobs are a turn-off for many, the Fusion 550 really does have an amazing tone, and having an identical second channel (as opposed to a dedicated overdrive channel like on the 2001RB) is a huge plus. However, the 1001RB-II also delivers without question, and is a much lighter and smaller head.

For me, the Fusion 550 wins, but mainly because I really needed a second channel. Yeah, I could've bought an overdrive pedal, but I love the sound of this head when pushed! Of course, finding one to try out in-store is tricky...

If you haven't tried out the RB series heads, you really should do that first. Guitar Centers across the country have both the RB heads and Neo cabinets in stock. They're a killer pair. Do a little reading on TB to see how to get the best out of those heads. If you're satisfied with your in-store demo experience, but think that the different features of the Fusion 550 are a better match for you, then take the plunge and pick a Fusion up instead. You can't really lose either way if you like the GK sound.

Also, another note... if you come across some Goldline gear at GC, give that a try too. But bear in mind that IMO, it's somewhat different than the usual GK fare. The Goldline cabs are a little too dark and burly sounding for my tastes.
 
#9
I'm a fusion owner to-be. Waiting for them to be in stock at rmcaudio. 2 weeks backordered. until then, i'm also going to order a NEO410 to use with the bi-amp. Thanks for the help

To enor: I think you might be misinterpreting the specs. AFAIK, the 1001 puts out around 750+-. I'll double check later but i just thought i'd point it out
 

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