Just snagged this on ebay. I have been searching for a little while, and this one looked so clean that I had to jump! It even includes an ATA case! Anyway, the dude said it was a '74, but with further research it looks to be a '76 to '79 due to the rounded faceplate blocks. It doesnt have the distortion knob, but it does have the master knob. Anyone with some knowledge on this? Is there a big difference in tone between the master/non master versions? Maybe the master version would stay cleaner louder for bass? This will be going into a Berg NV 215!
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.
My new v4!
- Thread starter denton57
- Start date
WOW!!! congrats!!! Into the Berg NV215 will be a great rig!
Whats the three white switches on the right front. power, standby & ??????
Rod.
Whats the three white switches on the right front. power, standby & ??????
Rod.
Polarity I think. Not quite sure what that is for!
It's a ground switch. I've never played though the master volume version, but I love my '74. I think you'll want to dime the master for the most clean headroom...unless of course you want it to bark at lower volumes.
Sweet Ampeg denton...
If you don't already have this link, Behold:
[Invalid or Expired Link Removed]
If you don't already have this link, Behold:
[Invalid or Expired Link Removed]
How do you like the sound of your V4? I've got one exactly like yours on the way and the whole master/non-master issue is getting me a little nervous. It seems like everyone is really big on the earlier "non-master volume" models. How's the tone on your model, and also let me know what settings you use to get a fat, loud, clean sound out of it. I was also considering running this amp through the NV 215 cab to get that fat rich sound out... let me know how it's working out for you.
Been a very long time since I played a late 70's V4B, used to own an early 70's one that got burned up in a bar fire. Seems to me you use the volume like a gain, and the master volume to control your level. That way you can crank the power tubes up hot and still be quiet if need be. Been a long time ago so don't quote me. I loved mine. Wish I still had it. Got an SVT and a B15N though, so I shouldn't complain. I'd love to get another one, but I think I have enough amps now.
I personally like the idea of a master volume. I mean technically they add a lot of versatility to your sound depending on how clean/overdrived you want your bass. I like a little tube honk in mine, so I would like the option of a master volume to achieve that at any volume.
I know there are probably some fantastic reasons to get earlier non-master volume models. But, I think mainly they are just more collectable, thus more fun to brag about.
I know there are probably some fantastic reasons to get earlier non-master volume models. But, I think mainly they are just more collectable, thus more fun to brag about.
Two reasons why I like a non-master volume amp. First, I mostly play clean so it's unnecessary to have gain/master. Second, I love the overdrive sound of an amp turned up all the way instead of with gain/master. Gain/master gets a little buzzy at low volumes, whereas a 30w amp turned up all the way may take the back of your head off but it will sound very sweet doing it.
Having said that, I like the gain/master setup too, and wouldn't turn down a deal on a V4 if it had it. I think it has more application for guitar, though.
Having said that, I like the gain/master setup too, and wouldn't turn down a deal on a V4 if it had it. I think it has more application for guitar, though.
Yup, could have told you it was not a '74. '72-'75 look the same, metal switches, different faceplate. I love my V4. Probably the best amp i have ever owned. I have a '72 modded with a master volume. Awesome amp, you should be happy, congrats!
Very nice score, Denton. I get to play a V4B every week in the studio where the band practices, and I love that thing! I think I'm gonna want one someday, so with the SVT and the B-15N I can have something to suit Goldilocks regardless of her mood. 
The middle switch is Polarity -- a relic from the days of ungrounded outlets -- in case you reversed the prongs in the outlet. It won't have any function now.
The middle switch is Polarity -- a relic from the days of ungrounded outlets -- in case you reversed the prongs in the outlet. It won't have any function now.
I tend to run the master dimed, and adjust overall volume with the actual "real" volume knob. Man, these things have such an awesome dirty grit to them, I love 'em!
Hookus, you get a better sound if you do the opposite. The gain heats up the power tubes to your satisfaction and the master controls the volume level.
JimmyM the gain knob affects only the preamp tubes (and sometimes the phase inverter if it's a Ken Fischer inspired master).
The only way to heat up them power tubes is to crank her hard.
As a general rule I find non master amps sound better.
The only way to heat up them power tubes is to crank her hard.
As a general rule I find non master amps sound better.
Very nice score, Denton. I get to play a V4B every week in the studio where the band practices, and I love that thing! I think I'm gonna want one someday, so with the SVT and the B-15N I can have something to suit Goldilocks regardless of her mood.
The middle switch is Polarity -- a relic from the days of ungrounded outlets -- in case you reversed the prongs in the outlet. It won't have any function now.
Yeah, this thread is a few months old but I dont mind talking about the V4 again! I think the master vol gives you more tone options. I do run the pre and master at 12 oclock though which is just like having no master. I think the ampeg tone comes from both the pre AND the power tubes being pushed equally. I tried the master dimed way, but it doesnt sound as good to me.
