• TalkBass has been independent since 1998. Add your voice.
    Create a free account to reply to discussions, view embedded media, and browse with fewer display ads.
    Join freeLog in
    Want zero display ads or expanded classifieds tools? Compare plans.

thinking of going the Ampeg route...

Aug 14, 2008
925
3
33
ghostjs
Disclosures
Unofficially Endorsing: D'Addario, Lakland
I've been looking for a powerful sound system that's impression is as good as its sound. I looked at the classic Ampeg 8x10 with a matching head. i'm still open to other suggestions (i liked a few Gallien-Kruegers but I don't know what exactly to choose) and I'm also curious, will the Ampeg SVT450H have enough power to use the SVT-810E? also what kind of power supply would i need to use it? cause I practice normally in my bandmate's garage.
 
i've powered an 810 with as little as 25w before. worked fine but didn't get screaming loud. i am not a big fan of the 450h/b2re, but it will work. if you decide to get solid state instead of tubes, get an svt 3 or 4 pro instead of the 450h (yes, i know the 3 and 4 pro have tubes, but they haev a solid state power section so they're not officially tube amps). but if you want to do it right, get an svt-cl or vr.
 
As Jimmy said, this "minimum wattage" idea is silly.

Plenty of people have powered their 810's with 100 watt and 300 watt heads. In fact, the 300 watt SVT is the "traditional" head for this cab.

I liked my 350H (predecessor of the 450H), but most people hate those heads. I don't like GK stuff much, but lots of people love them. They're certainly loud.
 
I agree, if You're gonna go with Ampeg don't fool around with their SS gear. I have owned a couple of their Solid state amps, which were very dependable but lacked a lot in the sound department. If You're gonna go Ampeg, get something with some tubes in it. If the tube rigs are beyond Your price point I would take a look at another brand.
 
If you're on a budget, get the 800RB first and a decent quality cab, then save your pennies for a "real" Ampeg like a Cl, VR, or even a V4B if you have a big/good cab. SVT 3's are decent ebough, but nothing like an SVT, and you'll still probably want the GK on occasion for lazy gigs.