Sansamp RBI & GK powered cab

[Tarheel73]

Has anyone tried to run one of the Gallien Krueger MBP Powered cabs with a Sansamp RBI or RPM, if it works and sounds good this would be exactly what i am looking for, i just dont really have any way to try it out. Hoping that someone on here has, thanks

 

[raphaeldc]

I've heard that these powered cabs will only work with GK combos, via a dedicated XLR output. Not sure though...

 

[Joe Louvar]

I don’t think the Sansamp will work very good - the GK powered cabs need a true balanced feed.

 

[majortoby]

I thought some of the sansamp had a balanced XLR out? At any rate, something like a ART tube MP could be used to generate a balanced XLR out without generating too much additional noise

 

[B-string]

The output of the Sansamp would need to be true balanced at +10db to drive the powered MBP. +10db is a pretty hot signal level.

 

[majortoby]

Just going to throw it out there once more. The ART tube MP has a maximum XLR output of 28DB. So, it could drive the **** out of the GK powered cab, unless I've missed something completely.

 

[tech21nyc]

Our RPM/RBI are configured with a balanced XLR line level output. We've measured it at 3.6V rms.

I'm not sure where you guys are getting the +10dB to drive these cabs as I found nothing in the MBP manual to suggest that. You might want to contact GK directly as there is not enough information in that manual to explain how exactly these cabs work.

My guess is that the XLR input on the MBP's is possibly communicating digitally between the MB series heads and these cabs.

 

[B-string]

The balanced +10 db signal level came from Robert A Gallien. The MBP are self powered cabs w/o a preamp. I don't remember if Mr Gallien referenced what voltage level.

 

[Tarheel73]

Thanks for all the replies, I really wish that would work, I love my RBI, and a powered cab would be perfect for me, somebody should really start making powered cabs that will work with any pre amp

 

[B-string]

Well is "appears" it may have sufficient drive for the MBP cabs. The unknown is what voltage the +10 db is referenced to.

 

[tech21nyc]

GK specifically states that the MBP cabs are only to be used with their MB amplifiers:

Q: Can I use an MBP cabinet with my non GK amp or directly from my bass?

A: No, MBP powered cabinets are designed specifically for use with MB series combos and heads only.

I emailed them to ask if they could be used with external preamp's XLR output and received the following answer:

The Line out is the method to be used when using an MB head to MBP cab. It's sound (send maybe?) out a different signal level than the XLR specifically designed for use with the MBP's.

My suggestion would be to contact them by phone before purchasing an MBP for use with a non GK product or try one locally.