Which Ampeg head should i buy????

[ROOKBASS]

Hey guys,

I'm currently playing a MM SUB 4 through a Marshall 7200 head and SVT-410HE and SVT-15EN cabs. I play in a heavy rock band, medium sized venues, and love the Ampeg sound so wanna go with them but having trouble deciding on the model. Thinking of the SVT 3 Pro. Other options being maybe SVT-450H or Ampeg in similar price range. Is the 3 Pro good enough or should i save for a bit longer and upgrade from that, and if so to what? Wouldn't mind the 3 pro so i can rack mount with a tuner but not too phased either way. Any help appreciated. Cheers.

 

[alfredpunkjazz]

I have found the SVT-III pro to be a very cool sounding head. Many people complain about its volume... But last time I used one (paired with a SWR 3 way cab 15+6+tweeter, and a SWR 4x10 cab), it was actually too much... and we are a very loud alternative rock band...

I even have a good SVT-VR to compare it against... It is not as loud, but it does its job VERY well. Just a matter of knowing how to use it.

 

[Ampeg SVT]

Does it have to be an ampeg?

 

[sedan_dad]

used svt. a old one.

 

[Energy]

do you need a graphic eq? if not, you should look into the V4BH as well. the "small SVT" keeps being underestimated.

 

[lowendblues]

I've had lots of Ampegs. I recommend GK.

 

[Hoss]

Id suggest an old 70s SVT, too. They will even go up in value over time and are a joy to resale when you stop playing gigs one day.

You can also look for an MTI SVT for example or an SVT-II if you need rackmountability. They go for reasonable prices and they outperform ANY SS-Ampeg.

Id take an SVT over a V4 (depends on how much power YOU need) and would definitely stay away from a V4BH as it has even a weaker poweramp and the CLs Preamp.

Just my two euro-cents...

 

[Big John]

new svt cl
no problems, enough power everywhere!

 

[Energy]

I've had lots of Ampegs. I recommend GK.

good one!

 

[megadan]

Either a vintage SVT, or a modern GK.

 

[jimmyjammer]

I have an SVT3 PRO... and yes, I have heard all the stuff about them not being loud enough... I find it PLENTY LOUD if you run it right (don't scoop the mids by using the bass boost, work the EQ, and run the gain until the peak light flickers). I run it into an Ampeg 4x10 cab with a horn (the 410HLF).

*I have not used the newer GKs and I have heard good things about them... but the 800RB I had once failed on me midway through a major gig, so I haven't felt like going back.

Couple the Ampeg with a Sansamp and a Musicman and you are all set...

 

[einer von meane]

I seem to be in the minority here on TB... I think the current crop of Ampeg gear rocks, I shop at Guitar Center and dare I say it... I don't care for Agular.

I use an SVT-CL and I love it, a killer amp all the way around.

I also have a B2-RE that I think kicks ass, in fact I used it last night. As I understand it that is the same amp as the SVT 450 just in a different box... very cool choice, between the two that's the way I'd go. I'll bet if you put one of those Tech 21 VT pedals in the front you would have a really bitchin set up.

I'll bet the SVT-3 Pro would be a great choice too.

I use the same cabinets you do... the 410HE and the 15E.

Later

 

[buzzbass]

I've had 10+ years of faithful service from my SVT 4-pro

 

[JimmyM]

As for what Ampeg head to get, all I can say is stay away from the B2RE and 450H. I know some people on here use them successfully, but IMHO they really don't hold a candle to the Pro line.

And though I do like GK, they're definitely not the same as an Ampeg.

 

[Mastermold]

I seem to be in the minority here on TB... I think the current crop of Ampeg gear rocks, I shop at Guitar Center and dare I say it... I don't care for Agular.

I use an SVT-CL and I love it, a killer amp all the way around.

I also have a B2-RE that I think kicks ass, in fact I used it last night. As I understand it that is the same amp as the SVT 450 just in a different box... very cool choice, between the two that's the way I'd go. I'll bet if you put one of those Tech 21 VT pedals in the front you would have a really bitchin set up.

I'll bet the SVT-3 Pro would be a great choice too.

I use the same cabinets you do... the 410HE and the 15E.

Later

My main amp right now is an SVT-CL and really enjoy it. The weight is the only drawback -- the tone rocks!

 

[fatgoogle]

Im really gasing for an svt 3 pro aswell. The only problem is its really difficult to pick one up second hand in europe. And there fairly expensive new for 450watts.Im going to run it througha 2x12 when i get one. I would defiantly get it over th 450h. That had sounds okay but doesnt have the growl or punch of the svt 3 head. Good choice though.

 

[Spinal Tapper]

Get a used vintage V4-B.

Not as much $$$ as the SVT, but not as much power either. You could probably get 2 or 3 for the price of 1 vintage SVT though.

 

[magickbass]

I would first try for an old SVT. If you can't pick up one of those get one of the 'newer' SVT-VR. The new ones are made in Vietnam so may want to avoid them.

 

[Myth_103]

I'd say go for a new VR (and the Vietnam made ones are absolutely fine. I have one and had it compared side by side with a USA made one. Exactly the same) or an SVT-II Pro. Heard the II pro in concert settings and it's just beautiful. You'll love either forever, BUT! the weight is pretty enormous.

 

[ROOKBASS]

Great responses guys thanks. I think i'm gonna save a little a go for either the SVT CL or the SVT 4 Pro. Tried out the 3 Pro and wasn't overly blown away by it, whereas the classic was awesome. So now my dilemma is the weight of the CL. Occasionally we fly between gigs and the CL in a road/flight case will exceed the standard limit costing me unnecessary $$$. So the question is now the 4 Pro or CL? I'm leaning towards the 4 Pro. Both seem really good.