Recommend me a small multi-channel tube amp head

[stratguy23]

I'm seeking a tube amp head with the following characteristics:

1. At least 2 channels, footswitchable
2. Minimum 20 watts; maximum, say, 40 watts
3. Small/portable
4. I need 3 basic sounds: very dirty clean/Marshall-type crunch/slightly boosted lead tone
5. Under $1000 USD
6. Durable/reliable

I don't need/want pristine cleans or metal high gain.

Here's what I've ruled out:

Blackstar HT20 - Too large
Hughes & Kettner Tubemeister 18 or 20 - These sound great but no blue LEDs for me (distracting for stage use)​

And here's what I'm looking at:

Carvin V3M
Ibanez TSA30H
Orange Dual Terror
Peavey Classic 20 MH or Valveking 20 MH
Traynor Iron Horse​

The objective is a gigging workhorse that minimizes the number of pedals I have to carry. I also want to minimize weight, so no 50 watt+ heavy iron.

Any experience with any of these amps, or recommendations as to others, is appreciated. Thanks!

 

[Synapsys]

Re: Recommend me a small multi-channel tube amp head

You said you don't like hoje LEDs, but after owning a V3M and a Line 6 DT 25, I'm buying the H&K Grandmeister 36. Lightweight, powerful, and it hás solid tones on all four channels. And it has some built in fx for when you don't want to carry a pedal board.

 

[Nostalgic Distortion]

Re: Recommend me a small multi-channel tube amp head

If I were you I'd take the TSA-30 & take what you've saved by not spending more on another amp & put it into some great pedals. The amp is essentially a "Clean Headroom Amp" & technically it's only one a CH. head. The T.S. circuit isn't it's own CH & it's a bit ehh, but if you take it for what it is it's also pound for pound one of the best, if not the best, pedal platforms on the market right now! They're rated for 4/8/16 ohms so you can plug into any cabinet & they are a hell of a lot less temperamental than most tube heads are....

 

[allbutromeo]

Re: Recommend me a small multi-channel tube amp head

Egnater Rebel 30 or Tweaker 40. Both are great sounding amps that can get the tones you're looking for. The Tweaker has a H/W/D dimensions of 7.16"x18.5"x8.11" and weighs 22lbs. The Rebel is 8.5"x17"x11" as 23lbs. For comparison an Orange Dual Terror is 7.5×14.5×6 and still weighs 22lbs.

 

[stratguy23]

Re: Recommend me a small multi-channel tube amp head

Thanks for the replies, everyone!

Synapsys, what did you like/didn't like about the V3M? I had no idea the Grandmeister was so light. It is really expensive, and, yeah, blue LEDs, but maybe I can cover them up or something. I'll look more into this.

Nostalgic Distortion, TSA-30 did just come across my radar. It seems to be 2 channels? How's the British voicing? I see a decent number of these used, so maybe people aren't liking them?

allbutromeo, I've only ever played 1 Egnater, not long enough to get any impression. But Egnater owners seem to really like them. How would you describe Egnaters? I know it's hard to generalize amps, but even something like "Marshall - high mids, Orange - low mids, Blackstar - modern, Vox - chimey" would help me out. I don't have any idea in my head of what an Egnater is like.

 

[allbutromeo]

Re: Recommend me a small multi-channel tube amp head

allbutromeo, I've only ever played 1 Egnater, not long enough to get any impression. But Egnater owners seem to really like them. How would you describe Egnaters? I know it's hard to generalize amps, but even something like "Marshall - high mids, Orange - low mids, Blackstar - modern, Vox - chimey" would help me out. I don't have any idea in my head of what an Egnater is like.

I don't have a ton of experience with these amps but I've demo'ed most of the amps in the Egnater line at some point. The Rebel has both EL84 and 6V6 tubes in the power amp and a knobs that let's you blend how much of each tube type is in the circuit. From what I've heard the clean channel has a bit more of a Fender voicing to it and the OD channel has more of a Marshall type voicing, but on this one I've only ever played on the 1 channel 20w version. The Tweaker has Vintage and modern voicing for both channels and a US/AC/Brit voicing switch for the global EQ along with Tight/Deep, Mid Cut/Normal, Bright/Normal, and Hot/Clean switches for each channel. So alot of flexibility to get good tones. Quality wise, other than a few of the early production amps, ive heard nothing but good things. Another good one to check out is the Mesa Tran-Atlantic series, they are no longer in production but used ones are reasonably priced and they can cover Fender, Vox, Marshall and Boogie tones very well.

 

[Synapsys]

Re: Recommend me a small multi-channel tube amp head

Thanks for the replies, everyone!

Synapsys, what did you like/didn't like about the V3M? I had no idea the Grandmeister was so light. It is really expensive, and, yeah, blue LEDs, but maybe I can cover them up or something. I'll look more into this.

We'll, the V3M wasn't by any means a bad amp, but to me it's versatility (what I usually look for in an amp) is a bit of a gimmick, since although it hás 3 modes per channels, that are not foot switchable, and they really changed the channels voicing quite a bit. Oh, and channels 1 and 2 are exactly the same, which could allow for different voicings, but was a bit pointless to me, since I use quite different settings.

My main gripe was that it sounded too american for me, and I also tend to use a more British (eg. Marshall) sound. It's also more focused on more sounds. All in all, I didn't gel with it. It can put on light show, either in blue or red.

Oh, and it's heavier and bulkier than the GM 36.

The GM 36 is quite a treat. Light and yet powerful, it can do it all. I wouldn't say it sounds like a boutique amp, but the four channels can, in each voicing, give you a range of tones the V3M can't match. The fact that it's fully programmable may be off-putting for some, but to me is really the way to go. Even if you don't go for the matching MIDI controle pedalboarda, you can go with a MIDI Mouse or any other midi board, and have a lot of different tones at hoje feet.

Tried one and the TM 36, and the latter didn't do it for me, and it's not that much cheaper (at least here in Europe). Actually the V3M costa more over here than the Kettner amps.

Oh, and I've seen pics on Google of a GM 36 with red LEDs instead of blue ones. If you know your way around electronics, you may be able to try such a mod.

Any way you choose, I advise to try them out and ser which better suit your sound, and your wallet.

 

[Matt42]

Re: Recommend me a small multi-channel tube amp head

Have you looked into the Mesa MiniRec? They are small and sound awesome!

 

[stratguy23]

Re: Recommend me a small multi-channel tube amp head

We'll, the V3M wasn't by any means a bad amp, but to me it's versatility (what I usually look for in an amp) is a bit of a gimmick, since although it hás 3 modes per channels, that are not foot switchable, and they really changed the channels voicing quite a bit. Oh, and channels 1 and 2 are exactly the same, which could allow for different voicings, but was a bit pointless to me, since I use quite different settings.

My main gripe was that it sounded too american for me, and I also tend to use a more British (eg. Marshall) sound. It's also more focused on more sounds. All in all, I didn't gel with it. It can put on light show, either in blue or red.

Oh, and it's heavier and bulkier than the GM 36.

The GM 36 is quite a treat. Light and yet powerful, it can do it all. I wouldn't say it sounds like a boutique amp, but the four channels can, in each voicing, give you a range of tones the V3M can't match. The fact that it's fully programmable may be off-putting for some, but to me is really the way to go. Even if you don't go for the matching MIDI controle pedalboarda, you can go with a MIDI Mouse or any other midi board, and have a lot of different tones at hoje feet.

Tried one and the TM 36, and the latter didn't do it for me, and it's not that much cheaper (at least here in Europe). Actually the V3M costa more over here than the Kettner amps

Hm, thanks so much for the detailed answer. I tend to go for British sounds, too. Unlike you, however, I don't need radically different sounds from the channels (my channel 3 should basically be a boosted version of my channel 2), so V3M sounds interesting. I'm lucky to live near Carvin, so I will visit them this weekend and see if I can play a V3M.

Tonewise, what differences did you observe between Grandmeister and Tubemeister 36?

I read about the Grandmeister not being really tweakable on the fly - how true is that? The Mesa I have now is about as complicated as I ever want an amp to be. I want my amps to operate like traditional amps, if you know what I mean. I deal with enough tech crap at work, I don't need more computers when I play guitar, heh.

 

[stratguy23]

Re: Recommend me a small multi-channel tube amp head

The Rebel has both EL84 and 6V6 tubes in the power amp and a knobs that let's you blend how much of each tube type is in the circuit. From what I've heard the clean channel has a bit more of a Fender voicing to it and the OD channel has more of a Marshall type voicing, but on this one I've only ever played on the 1 channel 20w version. The Tweaker has Vintage and modern voicing for both channels and a US/AC/Brit voicing switch for the global EQ along with Tight/Deep, Mid Cut/Normal, Bright/Normal, and Hot/Clean switches for each channel. So alot of flexibility to get good tones. Quality wise, other than a few of the early production amps, ive heard nothing but good things. Another good one to check out is the Mesa Tran-Atlantic series, they are no longer in production but used ones are reasonably priced and they can cover Fender, Vox, Marshall and Boogie tones very well.

Cool, thanks for the info. Rebel 30 and Tweaker are now on my radar. There are a few for sale locally, so I'll see if I can give them a go.

Mesa TA30 also looks really appealing, too. I feel like I have some really good options beyond what's in the local Guitar Center now. I really appreciate all the details.

 

[stratguy23]

Re: Recommend me a small multi-channel tube amp head

Have you looked into the Mesa MiniRec? They are small and sound awesome!

These are highly rated, but I don't think I'm the target audience. I just don't need all that gain - I just need classic rock gain, maybe Kill 'Em All TOPS. I think the engineering of that amp would be wasted on me. I'm more the target audience of the Lone Star or the Express series.

I currently have a Mesa Express Plus 5:25 combo, and it is amazing, but it is fairly heavy, and I'm also wondering if I can get British sounds more easily. The EQ on the Express Plus can kind of get me there, but, as you know, it can take some work to find specific sounds on a Mesa.

 

[Synapsys]

Re: Recommend me a small multi-channel tube amp head

Hm, thanks so much for the detailed answer. I tend to go for British sounds, too. Unlike you, however, I don't need radically different sounds from the channels (my channel 3 should basically be a boosted version of my channel 2), so V3M sounds interesting. I'm lucky to live near Carvin, so I will visit them this weekend and see if I can play a V3M.

Tonewise, what differences did you observe between Grandmeister and Tubemeister 36?

I read about the Grandmeister not being really tweakable on the fly - how true is that?

Well, if you want Brit sounds, maybe the V3M isn't quite spot on: the American sounds are it's main forte, but as long as you're not a purist, and spend a lot of time tweaking, probably you'll find some tones that suit your needs.

Between the GM 36 and TM 36, I did find that the channels were voiced differently. Overall, I find them more defined and focused in the GM 36, but there's an obvious difference between one head with three channels and the other with four channels. Found the TM to be grainier, and not to my liking. Also the EQ for the Lead and Crunch channels is shared, and I prefer fully independent channel controls.

It's not that hard to make adjustments on the GM 36, just a quick look over the manual sorts that out, but generally speaking you'll have to save any changes you make, otherwise when you change channels you'll lose any adjustments you previously made. It just works a bit as a simple multi-FX unit i that regard.
adjus
To me the GM 36 is a logical update on how traditional amps work. To make adjustment on amp setting, choose channel, dial gain, eq, power amp settings and volume by using the pots, and press store. If you also want to add FX, press FX Access, choose the desired fx to add or edit, turn the corresponding pots, press Store, and there you go.

BTW, Carvin has a good promo online for amps, check out the prices, if you go with the V3M you may get a sweet deal on it!

 

[Matt42]

Re: Recommend me a small multi-channel tube amp head

These are highly rated, but I don't think I'm the target audience. I just don't need all that gain - I just need classic rock gain, maybe Kill 'Em All TOPS. I think the engineering of that amp would be wasted on me. I'm more the target audience of the Lone Star or the Express series.

I currently have a Mesa Express Plus 5:25 combo, and it is amazing, but it is fairly heavy, and I'm also wondering if I can get British sounds more easily. The EQ on the Express Plus can kind of get me there, but, as you know, it can take some work to find specific sounds on a Mesa.

Gotcha, your initial post had me thinking you needed more gain. If you like the 5:25 Plus, you could get the head version. Would the TA-15 get you where you need to go? It's a killer little head, and they can be picked up for around $500 fairly easily.

Speaking as someone who traded away a Lonestar because it was "too big and too heavy," proceed with caution. It took me years to find the right amp after I got ride of my Lonestar, and now I'm seriously considering dumping my Super Sonic Twin in favor of a Lonestar. I should have just kept my original one to begin with.

 

[GilmourD]

Re: Recommend me a small multi-channel tube amp head

http://www.musiciansfriend.com/ampl...cation-custom-jca22h-20w-tube-guitar-amp-head

 

[stratguy23]

Re: Recommend me a small multi-channel tube amp head

Between the GM 36 and TM 36, I did find that the channels were voiced differently. Overall, I find them more defined and focused in the GM 36, but there's an obvious difference between one head with three channels and the other with four channels. Found the TM to be grainier, and not to my liking. Also the EQ for the Lead and Crunch channels is shared, and I prefer fully independent channel controls.

It's not that hard to make adjustments on the GM 36, just a quick look over the manual sorts that out, but generally speaking you'll have to save any changes you make, otherwise when you change channels you'll lose any adjustments you previously made. It just works a bit as a simple multi-FX unit i that regard.

Gotcha. I'm actually seeking dirtier/grainier sounds, so Tubemeister might actually be for me. Also, I never liked the multi-FX workflow that you described; I'm a simple guy and just want a knob to be a knob, heh. So, yeah, some more good possibilities, thanks to your advice. Cheers!

 

[stratguy23]

Re: Recommend me a small multi-channel tube amp head

If you like the 5:25 Plus, you could get the head version. Would the TA-15 get you where you need to go? It's a killer little head, and they can be picked up for around $500 fairly easily.

Speaking as someone who traded away a Lonestar because it was "too big and too heavy," proceed with caution. It took me years to find the right amp after I got ride of my Lonestar, and now I'm seriously considering dumping my Super Sonic Twin in favor of a Lonestar. I should have just kept my original one to begin with.

Yeah, several folks here have mentioned the Transatlantic amps, so they're on my radar.

I realize how awesome my Express Plus is, so the head version has crossed my mind. And I realize that most everything I'm considering would be a step down from Mesa quality, so, yes, I'm wary about it. I may be willing to put up with my Express Plus combo for the time being b/c it generally fulfills my sonic requirements and the biggest downside is just the strain on my back.

 

[stratguy23]

Re: Recommend me a small multi-channel tube amp head

http://www.musiciansfriend.com/ampl...cation-custom-jca22h-20w-tube-guitar-amp-head

I'm not familiar with Jet City stuff, though I've seen plenty of folks talk about it online. I almost never see the amps in shops around here, so I just haven't had a chance to play them.

The first comment on the Musician's Friend page has me concerned. Is that amp really that noisy?

Also, could it nail a Marshall voicing so dead-on that it could replace a DSL?

 

[Matt42]

Re: Recommend me a small multi-channel tube amp head

Yeah, several folks here have mentioned the Transatlantic amps, so they're on my radar.

I realize how awesome my Express Plus is, so the head version has crossed my mind. And I realize that most everything I'm considering would be a step down from Mesa quality, so, yes, I'm wary about it. I may be willing to put up with my Express Plus combo for the time being b/c it generally fulfills my sonic requirements and the biggest downside is just the strain on my back.

Buy a dolly, then you only have to lift it in and out of the car! I paid $50 for a nice dolly a few years ago, and it's saved my back a TON of strain over the years.

 

[kherman]

Re: Recommend me a small multi-channel tube amp head

Well, if you want Brit sounds, maybe the V3M isn't quite spot on: the American sounds are it's main forte, but as long as you're not a purist, and spend a lot of time tweaking, probably you'll find some tones that suit your needs.

Between the GM 36 and TM 36, I did find that the channels were voiced differently. Overall, I find them more defined and focused in the GM 36, but there's an obvious difference between one head with three channels and the other with four channels. Found the TM to be grainier, and not to my liking. Also the EQ for the Lead and Crunch channels is shared, and I prefer fully independent channel controls.

It's not that hard to make adjustments on the GM 36, just a quick look over the manual sorts that out, but generally speaking you'll have to save any changes you make, otherwise when you change channels you'll lose any adjustments you previously made. It just works a bit as a simple multi-FX unit i that regard.
adjus
To me the GM 36 is a logical update on how traditional amps work. To make adjustment on amp setting, choose channel, dial gain, eq, power amp settings and volume by using the pots, and press store. If you also want to add FX, press FX Access, choose the desired fx to add or edit, turn the corresponding pots, press Store, and there you go.

BTW, Carvin has a good promo online for amps, check out the prices, if you go with the V3M you may get a sweet deal on it!

+1 on the GM-36.

It's like having a full rack system in a tiny little head.
And it is adjustable on the fly via the H&K software and an Ipad. A lot of guys will just set up a stand with their ipad on it and quick adjust their presets.
There's also a third party software for Android and windows.
Besides that the GM has a Global Resonance and Presence control. So, you can do an overall adjustment of the amp for what ever club or room your in. That way you don't have to go into each patch and readjust your bottom end or high end.

I also, went with the GM over the V3m.
1. I already have the big brother V3. Which is midi. Making it more versatile than the V3m.
2. GM has built in effects.
3. GM power soak is more versatile than either V3 or V3m. It'll go 1w, 5w, 8w, 36w or off(dummy load for direct recording without a speaker hooked up).
4. DI redbox is better than the V3 DI.
5. Built in noise gate.

I found mine of Craigs list used for $900 with case, controller and cords.
Just be patient. Especially, with the College kids getting ready for the new fall semester. They tend to sell off gear to pay for those semesters.

 

[Demanic]

Re: Recommend me a small multi-channel tube amp head

Not to derail, but is that an XB-100 on top of the V3?

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