In Search of New Amplifier...Need Directions

Re: In Search of New Amplifier...Need Directions

Guitarist said:
That seems a little out of reach, seeing as they are based in Florida and will only ship direct from their factories. No dealers in my state, let alone any neighboring state!

Thanks for the recommendation, but as long as I stay a Washingtonian, I don't see how that's gonna work. :)

Hah, didn't notice that bro.

That said, that it may not be too terrible to get two amps to do both and get some sort of A/B-er (the Framptone 3-Banger comes to mind).

Maybe something like a used silverface Bassman, a Soldano Hot Rod and through a 2x12.
 
Re: In Search of New Amplifier...Need Directions

Well, I really like Mesas. The first thing I would do would be to check out your Single Rec and make sure that the tubes are up to snuff. A microphonic tube can "smear" the tone in a very unmusical way, and ruin the response of an amp. Then you might want to do a little "amplifier blue-printing", to try various mfgs. tubes in the pre-amp sockets. (I have a GT-12AX7-M in V1, a JJ in V2, and an EH in V3 in my Mark IV, for example.) And check those power tubes, too. A new set of "Winged C" 6L6s might be what you need.

If you've still decided to give up on your Single Rec, take a look at the new Stiletto--a different take on the Rectos--if you need a hard rockin' amp. Stick with the lower-powered Deuce.

For a good cover band amp doing classic rock, jazz, blues, etc., hey, it is still really hard to beat a Mark Series Combo with a 112 Theile cab underneath. The learning curve on the Mark III is easy, and it's a better "live" amp than the Mark IV--but the Mark IV still rules with its options. The new Lonestars are pretty cool, too. Again, I like the 112 combo with another 112 extension cab.

And believe it or not, the Maverick is a rocking amp. You are correct, it is not high gain, and it is only 30 watts Class A, BUT---think Allman Bros. Plexi tone in the Lead Channel; with a thick, luscious, breathy clean tone. I added a Recto 212 to my Maverick 212 combo for a potent half-stack that is really portable.

And if you are going to go over to the "dark" side and play a Marshall--there are are all kinds of options. The JTM-45 is a great place to start. For a more modern amp, the TSL122 is my fave or its little brother, the TSL602. Again, a 212 extention is a great addition, really adding to the flexibility.

I have a number of differently sized amps--the trick is to match the amp not only to your style--but to the size of the venue--ESPECIALLY if like that "pushed" amp tone--you may want a lower wattage amp.

Good luck in your search.

Bill
 
Re: In Search of New Amplifier...Need Directions

since everyone is giving their two cents, here is mine...

VHT Deliverance60 about 1500$ versitile warm, rich distortion and good cleans. can go from plexi gain to high gain and everything in between, and done well.

check it out.
 
Re: In Search of New Amplifier...Need Directions

Does anyone need more than these tones:
http://s53.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=1VURRK8YTPJZ31UC6X7KBID8FJ
??????????????
Laney GH100TI, maybe a bit too metal for you, however, it was just to show that Laney is a great brand, and maybe it'll encourage you to check out some of their other amps. Listen to the solos, it is kinda bluesy.

(it is recorded from the audience, by some dude, so not a professional recording, but sounds good to me)
 
Re: In Search of New Amplifier...Need Directions

Try using a TS808 overdrive pedal in front of your Rectoverb, through the clean channel.

I did this with my rectoverb (series I rectoverb) and I really get a wonderful tone - warm, round, fat, not mechanical. I especially like the sound from my 59 bridge pickup in my Hertigage/Les Paul guitar.

The TS808 made me keep my rectoverb.
 
Re: In Search of New Amplifier...Need Directions

May I suggest an Orange? Like a Marshall, but not... nicer cleans, and lurrrrrvly crunch sounds. Stick a pedal in front and you get great leads too, but since they are made in the UK I dunno how easy they are to get in the US. Loads of british bands use them, though, so DEFINITELY try one if you get the chance.
 
Re: In Search of New Amplifier...Need Directions

I had an all tube, 55 Watt Rivera Fandango ( EL34s ) that I believe would do extremely well for you. They also make a 100 Watt, and a Quina that is nearly identical only it has 6L6s (?). The EL34s aren't all as sparkly clean as the Fender tones, but do clean well, and get into beefy mids, and snarling mean when you say so. I had the 2X12 combo which I am currently trading for a 45 Watt Rivera Clubster ( EL34s ). I don't play any decent sized venues like you might, and at 75 pounds the 55W 212 was more than I'll ever need. The Clubster is nearly identical but weighs 38 pounds, and has only one speaker. I'm a knee-jerk Rivera fan, and I believe that they are making the best stuff out there, and are priced extremely well considering that they are really a top of the line company. I'm seeing new Fandangos around $2K.
 
Re: In Search of New Amplifier...Need Directions

From Boogie to Rivera...
Have not met a Rivera yet that I have liked much in the long run.
Have you tried the Traynor YV something 50 combo??
It is that new blue one, got a very good plexi like leadchannel, abit darker but still with that nice bite, good cleans too.
 
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