My old GK 400RB died, I need a new amp. Help.

[deadguyjon]

Yep.
My old GK 400RB, the ones that look like the 800RB, died yesterday.
I am sad.
I need a new amp.
What should I get?
I want one similar to the GK, how do the MB200/500's compare?

 

[B String]

The older GK's are like an older Volvo. You just open the hood, climb in an replace parts. Easy amp to fix and might be much less money than a new head.

 

[deadguyjon]

Excellent.
Might give that a go before replacing it.

 

[Marton]

You can't replace a 400RB with anything else than another 400RB.

 

[1958Bassman]

Yep.
My old GK 400RB, the ones that look like the 800RB, died yesterday.
I am sad.
I need a new amp.
What should I get?
I want one similar to the GK, how do the MB200/500's compare?

Where are you located? If you're anywhere close to Milwaukee or the Illinois/Wisconsin border, Chicago or that area, I can think of a half dozen people who could repair it for you.

 

[deadguyjon]

Located in Tasmania, Australia, probably too far away...

Should be able to find someone though, might start looking for a back up amp though.

 

[Dave W]

I'd try to fix it.

I will say that the MB500 is really nice. I had one and just traded up to an MB800, although I would have been fine with the MB500. I plan on getting an MB200 for my practice amp and small gigs. They don't sound exactly like my 800RB, but they're very close.

 

[B-string]

What do you mean by "died"? Does the lights still come on and no sound? No panel lights (blown fuse due to filter caps or rectifiers ect.)?
The 400RB IV has been re-released but I would attempt repairs first.

 

[1958Bassman]

Located in Tasmania, Australia, probably too far away...

Should be able to find someone though, might start looking for a back up amp though.

Kinda far from here but I'd bet someone in the general area repairs electronics. If you contact GK, let them know you need service and they may have a recommendation. Otherwise, call around to the local, better-known stereo dealers and ask if they can look at it. Get the schematic before you go- GK will send it to you if it's not already on their website.

 

[garagebassman]

I find the MB500 to be very similar to the old 400RB with much more headroom and more bottom.

If you can find one reasonably priced, it is worth a try.....but I would still favor hanging onto the 400RB....I know I did !

 

[Marton]

I find the MB500 to be very similar to the old 400RB with much more headroom and more bottom.

If you can find one reasonably priced, it is worth a try.....but I would still favor hanging onto the 400RB....I know I did !

To me, the 400RB is all about that sweet tone when you push the beast a little. More headroom would be a no-no for me.