Sansamp or SVP Pro with an Ampeg SVT 4 Pro

[Raw N Low]

In your case, go for the Sans Amp. Here's why:

The SVP Pro had some units that were manufactured with line level outputs instead of instrument level. This can cause some units to be very noisy. If you have a good power amp, you can lower the sensitivity and eliminate some of the hum. They also are very picky with tubes and you want to make sure you have a good one in the input stage.

They can do dirt very well but, it's more of a smooth grit. Good for Timmy Commerford type punch on the low end. The Sans amp was designed to get the grit of a driven SVT without the power section. Very good preamp and very usable in many applications.

If the SVP Pro is going for a steal, grab it. If your having to pay more than you like, definitely go with the Sansamp.

 

[packhowitzer]

I use an RBI run into an SVT4pro and I really like the sound of it a lot.

 

[Nephilymbass]

Rbi is great for a rock style bass tones. If you want more dirt than it provides I recommend Darkglass. I've been using the RBI along with the Darkglass b7k ultra and more recently the Alpha/omega.

 

[baxter_x]

I'm in for the sansamp. What's the main difference between the RPM and the RBI?

 

[Raw N Low]

I'm in for the sansamp. What's the main difference between the RPM and the RBI?

The biggest difference is the mids and presence found in either model. Another good option is the and Tech 21 Landmark. It's both preamps sandwiched into one amp. Running that pre into the 4pro would be killer but heavy.

 

[tech21nyc]

The RPM also has more available overdrive because of the circuit design. Some like the extra sizzle and ease of use of the RBI while some prefer the flexibility of the midrange on the RPM. It's always best to try first if possible.

 

[baxter_x]

Where does the PSA sit between those two?