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New head needed - Need fast response

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paradigm_shift

Mar 29, 2007
392
1
#1
So essentually, I'm looking for a new head- just looking for some recommendations. I'm currently running an Ampeg 810e w/ Mesa 400+ setup which sounds great for my doomier sounding projects. Currently I've just joined an uber-tech death/deathcore project and everything has just turned to mud.. So I'm thinking something solid state. or at least solid power section . I Tend to be very mid's hungry in my tone. Just needing something really tight sounding as we are playing passages frequently around 240bpm.

Help.(please):help:
 
#3
paradigm_shift said:
So essentually, I'm looking for a new head- just looking for some recommendations. I'm currently running an Ampeg 810e w/ Mesa 400+ setup which sounds great for my doomier sounding projects. Currently I've just joined an uber-tech death/deathcore project and everything has just turned to mud.. So I'm thinking something solid state. or at least solid power section . I Tend to be very mid's hungry in my tone. Just needing something really tight sounding as we are playing passages frequently around 240bpm.

Help.(please):help:
Click to expand...

sounds like you need a GK 1001RBII
 
#6
I think it may just be the cab. A properly tuned tube amp should respond quick. Ya the G-K mentioned is an awesome amp, but so is the Mesa? Try a different cab be fore you toss the hole rig, you may find a different cab fills the need. You will then have two different styles of rigs?
 
#7
Maybe check out one of the hybrid Ampeg Pro series heads, depending on your budget. You'll surely get more definition than all tube, and have a good match for your cab. The new 7-Pro seems to be getting good reviews so far - 1,000 watts and light weight for around $700-$800.
 
#8
B-string said:
I think it may just be the cab. A properly tuned tube amp should respond quick. Ya the G-K mentioned is an awesome amp, but so is the Mesa? Try a different cab be fore you toss the hole rig, you may find a different cab fills the need. You will then have two different styles of rigs?
Click to expand...

Also a good call. The 810 works but not "the best" IME... Maybe a Berg NV610?
 
#9
B-string said:
I think it may just be the cab. A properly tuned tube amp should respond quick. Ya the G-K mentioned is an awesome amp, but so is the Mesa? Try a different cab be fore you toss the hole rig, you may find a different cab fills the need. You will then have two different styles of rigs?
Click to expand...
good point, b-string 2. if your 810e is from slm and made between around 2000-2005, they're a very dark sounding cab compared to older and newer ampeg 810's.
 
#10
B-string said:
I think it may just be the cab. A properly tuned tube amp should respond quick. Ya the G-K mentioned is an awesome amp, but so is the Mesa? Try a different cab be fore you toss the hole rig, you may find a different cab fills the need. You will then have two different styles of rigs?
Click to expand...

I'm not getting rid of this rig- too good for my other projects. What sort of cab do you suggest I look at? Are there particular features I should be looking out for?
 
#12
paradigm_shift said:
Yes its SLM not sure what year - towards the end of the american made models so I would assume this would fit in that catagory?
Click to expand...
more than likely it does. i'll tell you, if you want high power handling with some actual brightness, those loud cabs are actually really good. not quite as good tone as a vintage, but a vast improvement on the last generation slm's imho.
 
#14
Think we could supply better advice if we knew your budget
I would think that Trace, GK, or SWR with a 6x10 Berg would speak very quickly and be able to dial in lots of mids, support a 5-string, be loud as hell, etc.

240 BPM - Now that's fast; I'm guessing you guys don't play the blues or many shuffles
 
#16
Wow!

You can't get enough mids out of a 400+ on an 810???

Are you using the graphic EQ? Didja try pulling on the treble knob? Are the speakers blown? Pre-amp tubes fuzzing you out? Need new strings with some ridges on em?

Something aint right... I've gigged that rig and "missing the mids" was not the result for me.

Good Luck
 
#18
I too would start by adjusting my EQ.. esp in the 100-200 hz range where the mud usually hides... maybe add a little about 1.5k to give it a nice upper end that doesnt get harsh.

I agree with the cab assertions as SLM moved to a composite board instead of plywood during those years... I personally like the sound... but then, I play doom too.

Solid states/Hybrids I would recommend:
Mesa Big Block
Mesa Carbine
Ashdowns ABM EVO II (uk version only).. hidden gem! and often underpriced used.
Ampeg 450H.. very nice tone and body for total solid state if 450 is enough SS watts for you and can be gotten on the cheap.
and the GK above.

I found most of the Ampeg Pro line to be a lil slow in response, more so than a tube amp even...

good luck
 
#19
paradigm_shift said:
I'm not getting rid of this rig- too good for my other projects. What sort of cab do you suggest I look at? Are there particular features I should be looking out for?
Click to expand...

Not saying to dump the 810 as you like it for other projects. Just add a new or older 810, a 610, two 410's a 212/412. I think your Mesa will fit your needs with a faster more responsive cab :) Avatars might be too mushy (don't beat me, just my opinion) there are vast number of cabs brands to plug into and try out. Mesa, Berg, G-K, Epifini, Ampeg, GenzBenz..........the list is very long?
 
#20
I'd say don't forget that 5-5-5 isn't flat on a Mesa 400+. Flat is actually bass-2, mids 10, treble 2. So the mids are cut only. I'd say maybe engage the graphic and boost the mids via that... I think that'd get you more response out of it.

If that doesn't work, or you've tried it, or whatever. I'd suggest GK, that Carvin B1500, or Genz Benz.
 

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