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Hilbish Design Beta 700

Discussion in 'Amps and Cabs [BG]' started by Turk1sh, Apr 2, 2021.

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  1. Apr 2, 2021 #1
    Turk1sh

    Turk1sh

    Mar 25, 2015
    Hello, I'm writing to ask if anyone here has any real world experience with the Beta 700 from Hilbish. Long story short long, I had an original Beta Bass that I was running into an Ampeg 8x10. Sounded great but couldn't keep up with the guitarist (stop me if you've heard this one before). Guitarist is playing a JCM800 into a 4x12 and pushing it with a TS. One other caveat is that we're in B standard tuning. I know it's not everyone's cup of tea but that's what it is.

    Regarding solid state amps, I have real experience with the old GK 800RB and the 1001RB-II, both of which I think would be great for my purpose but they seem to be getting rare these days, especially in good condition. Deep down I think that an Ampeg SVT CL is the correct answer to my situation, and I'm keeping my eyes open for one, but I wanted to ask about the Hilbish.

    Any input would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
     
  2. Apr 3, 2021 #2
    monsterthompson

    monsterthompson The Eighth Note Wonder Of The World Supporting Member

    Nov 25, 2008
    Hollywood
    I have some Hilbish experience. It started years ago when I asked Dunwich for amp advice and Nick suggested them. It took a while, but I eventually bought something from them when they released the Sol Invictus pre pedal. I can't compare it to the full amp or the original Sunn, but it is a great sounding and well made pedal. I can certainly see how the "Red Fang" sound can be achieved with one, along with many other doom styles. There's lots of room for EQ adjustment, but the Sol doesn't have much clean gain on tap even with the channel master set wide open. If you're looking to get cleaner sounds, that can be an issue, but there are a few work arounds I've found (boosting the active EQ settings and driving in a hotter clean signal with a compressor does't seem to clip the same way).

    I haven't played the pedal in a band setting, only jamming at home. I have used a 5 string (BEADG) and 4 string (BEAD) and they sound good.

    I've since purchased the Pessimiser and Compressimiser and have been very happy with the way these work (I have a few minor complaints but no deal breakers). Based on my experience, I'd say the sound quality will be spot on. I'd assume they're using a loud enough power section, but I cannot say for sure. I've definitely considered the Beta rack pre for expansion in the future, and I'm watching for the new pedals they are teasing on IG. If I was back in a band setting, I'd certainly give them a look.
     
  3. Apr 13, 2021 #3
    Turk1sh

    Turk1sh

    Mar 25, 2015
    Thank you so much. I appreciate your insight.
     
    monsterthompson likes this.