Might be a crazy question but is a used GK 1001rb ll still worth it in 2025? Most people are buying more compact units that still has alot of power and also heard GK is no longer taking these for repairs.
Enjoy the benefits of a premium membership!
Upgrade Account
-
TalkBass has been independent since 1998. Add your voice.
Create a free account to reply to discussions, view embedded media, and browse with fewer display ads.
Join free Log in
Want zero display ads or expanded classifieds tools? Compare plans.
GK 1001rb ll question
- Thread starter Grandpiano
- Start date
Short answer? Yes
Long answer? YEEEEEEESSSSSSSSS
Long answer? YEEEEEEESSSSSSSSS
- Feb 12, 2006
- 61,087
- 5
- 221,210
- Disclosures
- Development Engineer-Mesa Boogie, Development Engineer-Genzler (pedals), Product Support-Genz Benz
If they aren't supporting the amp with service and parts, that should factor into the decision and the price.
I would check with the GK service center closest to you to verify your options.
I would check with the GK service center closest to you to verify your options.
Great sounding amp, (to my ears anyways). Big, loud, clean, clear power with plenty of headroom.
If your wanting the GK growl and grind by riding the rails at a low volume, you might try to find a 700RB instead.
If the amp ever needs service you'll have to find a local technician to make repairs. GK no longer offers factory service/repairs/parts for anything but their latest series of Legacy and Fusion S heads.
Because of parts availability most manufacturers are no longer offering factory service for anything but their latest designs.
Great sounding heads and loud. I have one and still love it. I would buy another or get it repaired if it crapped out. From my understanding, they aren't crazy difficult to repair at a local repair shop if needed.
GK is coming out with a new version of these amps though if you are concerned about the rb series and repairs.
GK is coming out with a new version of these amps though if you are concerned about the rb series and repairs.
The original nail driver. Having owned a 1001RBII since 2006 I would not worry about taking a risk on a used unit in good condition. Just be prepared for the punch.
Not a lot goes wrong with the Mark-II versions of the 700RB and 1001RB. I'd expect some scratchy pots that need some "exercise" rotation to get rid of any dropouts, but that's about it. It may or may not be something you'll be forever in love with, but some stuff became legendary/classic/industry-standard for a reason.
Education often costs money. A Hazmat CDL would cost more and it's not nearly as much fun.
Education often costs money. A Hazmat CDL would cost more and it's not nearly as much fun.
I own one, I keep it in a practice space and play through it on the regular. It's a fun, loud amp with a very distinctive growl. It's been very reliable, minus a couple of bad jacks, and I intend to use it until it blows up. I probably won't bother repairing it if and when it does though, as there are so many other amps I'd like to sample. So yes, it's worth it, but only so much for me.
Just a-b the fusion and the legacy with mine and the 1001 just blows them out of the water. For 400 bucks you can't go wrong
I know the issue with repair parts being available for many older amps now is a real thing. You might do like has been suggested and check with a reputable service center on availability as these amps are still repairable if there are parts. Much like an old tube amp or 64 Chevy Impala 
