The trick seems to be running the gain lower and the master higher. This minimizes the compression. It also helps to scoop some of the mids on the amp's EQ. Honestly, the AO isn't getting much play time and is probably gonna get sold soon. I just snagged the Reiner Gasoline and it is growing to be a central part of my tone. Regardless, I think this amp is pretty good, but the controls and sound take some time to sort out, like any new tool in the shed. Still not sure if it will stay in the rotation. I picked it up to contrast against my two existing heads. I really can't justify holding on to all three, but the choice isn't obvious.
Update.
Did some A/B testing today, between the Quilter and the DG 900 head. I plugged in various Dunwich distortion and fuzz boxes (DA120, ODB, VT, Wizard, HM2), and most of my basses, but primarily the Spector Euro 5 and Ric 4003 (jeez, my collection expanded last year).
I bought both amps, planning to keep the one I liked best. I’m pretty attached to my basses and pedals, so the amp interplay is a big factor. After today’s test, the Quilter might be getting flipped. It’s not a bad amp by any measure, but it just isn’t the best fit for my style and gear.
The Quilter clean tone is thick and lovely, but lacks a bit of top end sheen that I like in other amps. The DG has that sheen, but isn’t quite as thick and doesn’t compress as nicely (not counting the Microtubes engine, just the dry amp). However, a little EQ on the DG can get me close enough to what I like in the Quilter, but the Quilter doesn’t quite mimic the DG. I think I just like a slightly more solid-state sounding amp, in most cases.
This sound difference particularly shows itself when using distortion, fuzz, or overdrive. The DG stays pretty aggressive sounding, with a sharper attack. The Quilter sounds like there’s a layer of politeness over it. It isn’t like a when a piece of gear makes it sound like there’s a blanket over your speaker, but it might be more like a doily. There are some pedals and settings where the DG gets overly harsh, while the Quilter stays more musical. However, more often than not, I found the DG feeling like a more comfortable fit.
If I wasn’t so attached to this certain snap/attack/sheen quality, I’m sure the Quilter would be a nice workhorse amp, particularly if I was just looking to plug my bass straight into a conveniently-sized (and nicely priced) amp, and go. What I’m attached to, sonically, may very well by barely noticeable by an audience, but I mostly play for my own enjoyment. If I wasn’t able to A/B the two, I’d probably still notice the difference, but being able to play each one side by side helped me hear and feel what I thought I was hearing and feeling.
As small as the Quilter is, it isn’t enough of a size and weight savings over the DG to make that a consideration. Particularly when you take into consideration the Microtubes engine and EQ section. Both will do 2 Ohms, though the Quilter is a bit cautionary with their rating. Both have fans, and post-Master DI Out. I’ve already stayed my position on the detentes
All things considered, its not a no-contest type of choice, but it’s looking like I’ve found what works better for me.
