Victoria 518 vs Gibson GA5

[Gunny47]

Hey all! I got my Gibson GA5 amp back from the shop about a month ago. Some of the pins were screwed up where the pre-amp tube goes and the thing just wasn't working at all. Making horrible noises, no sound etc. Got it back, sounds great, but when it is cranked or at high volume with a lot of crunch (even half way it does this), the bass notes always fart out. It sounds like radio static or just like big farting out. Im just dissapointed with this amp. Its always been way too trebly, now I fail to get enough highs out of it. I think it is too much distortion also and not enough thickness.

So I was thinking of selling this sucker and saving up some cash to pay the difference and go for a Victoria 518 (champ clone) or a Victoria 5112 (champ clone with 12 inch speaker). Does anyone have any opinions on either of these two amps? Can somebody explain the nature of tweed champs a little bit please? Thanks dudes!

 

[the guy who invented fire]

Re: Victoria 518 vs Gibson GA5

A Tweed Champ is a classic amp but pretty not useable outside of a bedroom...a lot of guys find them to be boxy sounding which is why lots if guys like a 10 or a 12 inch speaker with their champ. The entire Layla album was recorded wiht a couple of Tweed Champs, if you look on Victoria's site there are several sound clips of one of their Tweed Champ clones...

 

[Scott_F]

Re: Victoria 518 vs Gibson GA5

I've got a tweed ready for sale.

 

[Gunny47]

Re: Victoria 518 vs Gibson GA5

I use my Gibson GA5 as a bedroom amp and sometimes band practices when Im in a squeeze. Im starting to crave the 6V6 tone, more smooth, not as agressive, probably more lows. Not sure what exactly I'm gonna get. I'm in the process of getting rid of some pedals in order to make room for new pickups for my R7. After that, I'll start looking to sell it. I think it needs a little work though because of that wierd sound I get. Ill have to screw with it and swap the tubes to see what it is. I got it for a rele good price and its in amazing shape so I might be able to get all my money back!

Scott - look for a PM shortly

 

[Hot _Grits]

Re: Victoria 518 vs Gibson GA5

Well, I haven't played the Victoria champ, but I've also yet to meet a Victoria I didn't like. Go for the Champ with the 12, I say.