Amps... Decisions decisions... What would you do?

Big-G · 2013-04-07T15:03:46+00:00

So, a few days back, I sold my AC15 to a guy who begged me to sell it to him, and I've been looking at what to replace it with, and have a good few options. I would like all you good folks inputs on the choices, so that perhaps I can get a good balance of opinions/experiences, so the amps I'm looking at are pretty much in the same price range, give or take a little, so here's my list..... Ibanez TSA15H + matching cab - So far this seems my favourite, and most likely to be 'the one', but I just want to be sure. I like the two channel with switching option which gives more flexibility. Fender Blues Junior - Little more than the TSA, but on a half price special, so thats the only thing bringing it into contention. Limited flexibility though perhaps? Fender Vibra Champ XD - fair bit cheaper then the TSA, as thats also on half price special. Again though, limited flexibility perhaps? Laney Cub 10 - Small but perfectly formed. Great options, and cheap, but will it cut it tonally? Peavey Classic 50 2x12" - a used one is available which falls into my price range. Weight and controllable volume are my main concerns here? The other option for a fair bit more than the TSA is the Avid Eleven rack. I love the look and potential flexibility of these units, but I just fear that whilst it can do 'everything', it can only do each thing to a lower standard compared to having one good tube amp that does that one thing really well? Having all the effects available on tap is what is bringing this into contention, as then I wouldn't have to add any of them later, which effectively increases the costs of the amp route. So, I think that's pretty much my current choices. Anything else I should consider? Opinions on the above? Regards G!

Big-G

For the Mustang V (version 1), the in store price was R5k, but there's the usual discount to come off that, which is why I was considering it. The matching 4x12" stereo cab is also another R5k, which is why I was not able to afford both.

The Mustang III I'm a bit confused about, as I spotted it online for R4300, but I'm sure it was something like R5700 in a well known store, and that was apparently reduced at 50% off!

The v.2's are coming out soon though, and apparently they are only bringing in the Mustang III's (v.2) in stock, and the IV and V will only be available through special order!

Regards
G!

chris77

Big G wrote For the Mustang V (version 1), the in store price was R5k, but there's the usual discount to come off that, which is why I was considering it. The matching 4x12" stereo cab is also another R5k, which is why I was not able to afford both.

The Mustang III I'm a bit confused about, as I spotted it online for R4300, but I'm sure it was something like R5700 in a well known store, and that was apparently reduced at 50% off!

The v.2's are coming out soon though, and apparently they are only bringing in the Mustang III's (v.2) in stock, and the IV and V will only be available through special order!

Regards
G!

Cool. Thanks!

Mr-M

Big G wrote I absolutely love the look of the AC4's, and had seriously been considering the one on the tree at present, but I just remember my experience when I bought the AC15 that the AC4's lack of a gain control was somewhat limiting, and left me feeling a little unsure I'd be able to tweak to get the desired level of grit on the sound.

A bit late in the discussion, but I thought I should just point out...a little known fact, but there are actually two versions of the AC4. The AC4TV is the one you've tried with volume, tone and attenuator controls (which they also make a head of) and is white. The lesser spotted model, the AC4C1, is blue in colour and has an extra preamp tube, gain and master volume controls and a two band EQ, but no attenuator. I'm not implying you should buy either of these - that wouldn't be allowed of course. Just FYI...

As for your needs, failing a small valve amp, I would suggest something DSP based along the lines of what Alan has been suggesting for the sake of versatility. I would go with software rather than a hardware unit though if it's only going to be used in the studio - assuming you have a good DI and audio interface. The money you save could be put towards a good amp later on for live playing.

Or you could ask for your AC15 back... ?

Shibbibilybob

Mr T wrote

Or you could ask for your AC15 back... ?

This would have been my input too...answering the "what would you do?" question ?

Big-G

Yer, as the guy took her away, I almost ran and begged him to give it back, but I'm a man of my word, and when i agree to something, I try and see it through!

As I mentioned earlier, I think the only reason I agreed to sell him it was that he caught me at a moment of weakness, and with me looking to move house, I was looking at ways of reducing the stack of equipment in the one room, which in all honesty was starting to take over the room.

On a normal day, I wouldn't even have considered it! But I guess one mans loss is another mans gain! I hope he treats her well, and gets the full usage out of her that she deserves!

Regards
G!

Tucker

Hi
Have you maybe thought about getting a Vox Valvetronix?
http://www.voxamps.com/valvetronix/

You can get them in a few variations and they have a really awesome sound.
I had the older 50W ,sold it and bought the smaller 30W and its plenty loud, light to carry around and you can mike it up at gigs
The newer ones have loads of amp models ,even the AC15 ?.
I use a tele custom with P90's and it sounds great great. The amp modeling is also really good.

Other than that maybe the Peavey Classic 30? This is also a great little valve amp.

Good luck I know how hard it can be to hunt down the right sound, but I guess it comes down to trying as many amps as possible and research. But you'll know it when you hear it.

mattyd

Gareth - I'm selling my Peavey Classic 30 if you'd like to come try it out at some stage.
Looking for about R4500 for it.

Have it on Gumtree for R4800 with cover and spare tubes.

http://www.gumtree.co.za/cp-musical-instruments-in-blouberg/peavey-classic-30-tube-amp-486533731

Stubbs

Just gonna chuck my two cents in here as well: about two weeks ago I picked up a Peavey Classic 30 (first tube amp), absolutely awesome! It is PLENTY loud, will easily keep a drummer in his place. Takes pedals well, excellent 'jack of all trades' amp.

I did try one of the new Valvetronix amps at Marshall Music in Cape Town - very very nice amp; good bottom end and some great clean and driven sounds from that thing! If not, Roland Cube FTW ?

Big-G

Thanks for the replies guys, but I'm now sorted with my VHT Special 12/20, so for the moment, not in need (although always interested in Vox).

I had looked at the Peavey Classics a few times, as there have been a few up for grabs of late. None seemed to quite fit my budget or 'condition' requirements at the time though.

Regards
G!

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