• 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.

Who's never played through a real SVT ?

Me, only solid state ones (which I don't count as SVTs) and only in music stores (which also shouldn't count as you need warm up time, loud volume, and well, the rest of the band to really hear what it sounds like). I would love to though!!! :)
 
There have been many post on the tone of a SVT and just as many of opinions as to how they sound.
Post a topic pertaining to Ampeg and watch the fireworks fly.
So to me, knowing weither or not after playing through a old SVT a person's opinion changes is interesting.
 
I had a very early '70's SVT/810. It sounded great, but not as good as my SVT-2 Pro/610HLF IMO. Every bassist should personally try an old SVT, if they can. It really is a memorable experience. The sheer punch and tube crunch is quite awe inspiring.
 
Keep telling yourself that. ;) :D

:D

After owning two 70's SVT's, and currently owning a circa-2000 SVT-CL and even an early 90's SVT-III PRO, I'll admit there is a bit of tonal difference between them all, but I wouldn't say the older ones sounded any better. The older ones are something of a "badge of honor" just to own one, but that's about it IMO.

I still say the SVT-II, SVT-II PRO, CL and VR are REAL SVT's, and I'll add that a real SVT should be all-tube... FWIW.

;) :)
 
I picked up an SVT classic at GC to see what the fuss was about. I used it for 1 set at practice with a SVT 8X10 that I already own. It sounded great, but not, IMO any better then my svt 4 pro and didn't have all the options/features that the svt 4 pro has. So I returned it. Couldn't justify the $1500 for no improvement in sound. My bandmates agreed that the sound wasn't any better. The weight issue doesn't bother me. If there is great sound coming from a bass rig, I'll hump the extra weight.
 
Anyone who says "I get that SVT sound with my SansAmp" hasn't played one! :eek:


:hiding:


-M

I have to agree - I bought a Sansamp BDDI, and sold it after four or five months of not getting an SVT sound out of it. I tried multiple settings on the BDDI and on my G-K head. It sounded good, it just wasn't an SVT sound, and I found my G-K just sounded better by itself than with the BDDI, so off it went, and now I just play direct to my head.
 
Me. I would if one happened to drop itself in front of me, but otherwise, why would I need to play an SVT when I have a Trace Elliot V-Type rig? Not to mention the fact that in no way am I ever interested in moving an 8x10 cabinet.

The SVT is a great amp, I'm sure, but I'm also sure, after having heard other people play them, that they aren't any "better" than any other high quality tube bass amp, just somewhat different.

I also like Mesa's Buster! Bass 200 and Bass 400/400+ lines (moreso the original, due to the excessive tube complement of the 400+). I passed on a nice Buster! Bass head at a good price a few years ago even though I really liked it, because I already had two V-Types, and couldn't see the need for YA tube bass amp.

I would, however, like an SVP-CL to play around with.
 

Latest posts