I think the reason some are a little touchy on the wattage subject is because TC did the same, and at no point did anyone say 'this RH450 is underpowered', then the results came out and everyone gave them a grilling. I like TC, and I was shocked. They seem to have their 'loudness' measured differently, and by heck, the RH450 and 750 are stupidly loud. Has anyone EVER cranked the 450 and thought 'not loud enough' through a decent cab?
I think Ampeg HAVE changed for the better. I have a bitter taste in my mouth from previous experience with their UK service (not a patch on Genz or TC) but this was a few years back, and it was before they started being more consistent with their amps and coming at the market with what the public want. Yes, the CL and VR are great, and if I had space/the extra cash, id love an Ampeg 810E and CL, but my full Orange rig, due to my location here in the UK, was a much better deal.
I think they still need to iron out the problems with the PF500, and the earlier Pro 7s, and the 'two cab' issue with the micro VR. BUT, this might be a UK issue, as we might not have the latest stock coming through. I have been assured that the 7 Pro is available, in Rev C00, from most UK stockist though.
I have grown up respecting Ampeg, and I think the fact we expect their wattage ratings to be spot on or very close left a red rag in front of the Talkbass crowd after the grilling TC were given.
I am warming to Ampeg again. I don't know why or where this came from, but I am interested in a 7 Pro. Even in the UK the prices are crazy value IMO.
I can't really justify it as at the moment I have an Orange AD200b, Genz Streamliner 900, TC RH750 and a Genz Shuttlemax 9.2. Thats a lot of amps. Some would say its totally overboard, and I agree, but your hobby is your hobby I guess.
I am tempted to try the 7 Pro and flip it if it doesnt work out.