Playing the Market with Used Music Gear
April 19, 2009 by Chaz · Leave a Comment
Some people would rather have their left nut removed before suffering the embarrassment of walking on stage with a shiny new gear. Call it what you will, crazy , a phobia, or pure snobbish but if it isn’t vintage or second hand I don’t want it in my possession. Read more
Bugera 6262 Amplifier Review
April 12, 2009 by Chaz · Leave a Comment
Bugera 6262′s clean and crunch channels feature a vintage designed EQ section with bass, mid and treble that is simply beyond one’s imagination. Both channels offer classic presence controls. In addition, there is a master volume and a master cut control. There is an internal diode that pushes the amplifier even harder making it break up more. The Bugera 6262 also features useful effects loop for you FX lovers. Impedance switches (4, 8 and 16 Ohm) are made to match virtually any speaker cabinet. Heavy-duty, rugged footswitch for channel selection and FX Loop function are included. The guys at Bugera are no slouch, they hand make their tube amplifiers using high-quality components and excel for building rugged equipment to ensure long life and road-incredible amps.
The Bugera 6262 amplifier is amazingly versatile as it can be used in the practice area, the stage, and in the recording studio. This piece of equipment really does the trick for all settings. With a massive power transformer at 120 watts full blown, doubt any sane guitarists will turn the master up past 6, but who said guitarists are sane? When it is rocking out it goes from country style slight clipping, to bluesy twang, to hard rock sing, to rock grind. If you like the British sounds then this is absolutely the amplifier for you.
The Bugera 6262 has a classic 2-channel preamp design, a clean and a lead channel. The clean being very clear and sultry and the lead with a ballsy overdriven raw tone. When cranked to the maximum, the clean will break up and one can get those chimed tones like the edge. It is spot on for a Hendrix type of break up. However, it remains totally clean until 6 which is incredible, the cleans on this amplifier hold it‘s own.
The lead channel is voiced relatively light. It has the possibility to be full blown on crunch but has lesser distortion because of the unique voicing. It obviously works well with a Fender Strat. With tone amplification capability, it is stacked with filthy crunch which provides incredible tone. Love the Jimmy Page’s Black Dog? The Bugera 6262’s crunch is spot on. Fan of Clapton? Get that early Eric Clapton with cream sound flawlessly. We could go on, but words do not describe it. Bulgera 6262 has no difficulties getting the ultimate British rock guitar tones.
This beast is a high output 120-watt valve amplifier and provides mammoth tones
Amazingly, it gets very little noise, even when relentlessly cranked. It is super touch sensitive and responds amazingly to pedals and effects. It is a fuller, deeper, and warmer then most other production amplifiers. It really does provide that boutique sound that people are always talking about and pay that high dollar for in other amps. It is a straightforward amp and simplistic yet diversity, it’s a calling card to cover a full gambit of rock styles. It is wonderful for the blues and the rockin cleans. This amplifier is an art for rock and roll.
At the end of the day, a musician on a budget will absolutely love the price, the Bugera gives the Bugera 6262 give high end amplifier companies a run for the money. When it is rocking out it goes from country style slight clipping, to bluesy twang, to hard rock sing, to rock grind the amplifier’s performance is just too brilliant far, wide, and loud.
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Carvin R600 Redline Series Bass Amplifier
March 30, 2009 by Chaz · Leave a Comment
Due to popular demand and request from the GEARHEAD Gear-Vault readers, we are going to focus on bass equipment more often (cheers Marvin H.)
In 1999 Carvin made a bold follow-up and delivered the bass guitarworld the R600 bass amp series. The Carvn R600 featured a “mono bridge” output switch that delivers a thundering 600-watts from the amp’s 2 x 300-watt amplifier. The hefty power comes courtesy of Carvin’s HT (High-Energy Transfer) power module, which can also be split for bi-amping at any crossover frequency between 200hz and 2khz. Other refinements to the original R600 series include three levels of EQ and a blend-able tube/solid-state input for a wide range of tonal variations, as well as a foot-switchable effects loop, an XLR direct out with ground life, and three preamp outputs.
*The Carvin R600 Redline series is no longer in production.
Estimated used price for the Carvin R600 Redline Series bass amp head: $200 – $250 Gear Search
Carvin RC210
New for 1999 was the RC210 Red Eye Combo (pictured). This was a tiltback combo amp, based on the Series II Red Line amps. This 600W combo had all the features of the R600 head, in an ultra-compact package with a pair of 10″ speakers and the Red Eye horn. The RC210 sold for $749.95, and was also available as the RC210-18, which included the RL118 extension cabinet. Sold for $1049.95.
Blackstar Amplification Launch Series One Guitar Amplifiers
March 30, 2009 by Chaz · Leave a Comment
March 30, 2009 – Blackstar Amplification is proud to launch the Series One at Frankfurt 2009. The much anticipated Series 1 produces mind-blowing high gain performance with a level of tonal enhancement found previously in the very best boutique and vintage amplifiers.
From the extraordinary power of the 200-watt KT88 equipped head to the strikingly crafted 45-watt combo, each Series One design sets new standards in the industry for valve tone and flexibility.
The Blackstar Series One dual patent design is the result of hundreds of hours of research by one of the most experienced design teams in the business. The built in DPR power reduction system allows reduction to any level down to 10% of the rated power with no loss in tone or valve reliability and the ISF control provides tonal flexibility beyond that of any traditional tone control system.
SERIES ONE 45
By switching both preamplifier and power amplifier parameters the Series One 45W delivers both Class A style tones with a bell-like ring and classic push-pull crunch depending on the mode selected. The ISF control removes the limitations of traditional designs allowing you to tune the tone to exactly the sound you are looking for.
DPR can reduce the power down to 4.5W and MIDI switching and a series effects loop make this the ultimate pro’s combo.
- 45W Watt combo with built-in DPR power reduction
- 3 x ECC83, 1 x ECC82, 2 x EL34 valves
- Clean channel with Warm (Class A) and Bright (Plexi) modes Overdrive channel with Crunch and Super Crunch modes
- ISF equipped tone control section
- Presence control
- Master Volume
- Series effects loop
- MIDI switching
- Speaker emulated output
- 2 x Celestion custom designed Neo 12-inch speakers
SERIES ONE 100
Built on the rock-solid foundation of the classic 100W EL34 power stage, this amplifier sets new standards for clean and crunch tones. Two channels and four footswitchable modes, complete with ISF, include the amazing Super Crunch for the biggest, crunchiest tones yet heard.
The DPR control allows power to be reduced to 10W for studio and small venue work, while a series effects loop and MIDI switching further expand the flexibility of this professionally specified amplifier.
- 100 Watt head with built-in DPR power reduction
- 3 x ECC83, 1 x ECC82, 4 x EL34 valves
- 2 channels and 4 modes (footswitchable)
- Clean channel with Warm (Class A) and Bright (Plexi) modes
- Overdrive channel with Crunch and Super Crunch modes
- ISF equipped tone control section
- Presence and Resonance controls
- Master Volume
- Series effects loop
- MIDI switching
- Speaker emulated output
SERIES ONE 200
Four selected KT88 power valves form the backbone of this 200W high gain power house and provide unbelievable dynamics and head-room. The DPR control allows the power to be reduced down to 20W for beautiful power amp distortion at a much lower volume level.
Setting new standards in tonal flexibility, the deceptively simple preamp section has four world-beating channels (6 modes) which are further augmented by dual ISF controls. With Series One customization comes as standard and you will effectively design your own sound.
- 200 Watt head with built-in DPR power reduction
- 4 x ECC83, 1 x ECC82, 4 x KT88 valves
- 4 footswitchable channels
- Clean channel with Warm (Class A) and Bright (Plexi) modes
- Crunch channel with Crunch and Super Crunch modes
- Two overdrive channels with high and low output damping
- Two ISF equipped tone control sections
- Presence and Resonance controls
- Master Volume
- Series effects loop MIDI switching
- Speaker emulated output
SERIES ONE 412A/B
- 240-watt / 16
- extension cabinet
- Switchable mono / stereo
- Finger-jointed birch plywood construction
- Heavy gauge wire
- Celestion Vintage 30 speakers
Dual Patent Design
ISF (Infinite Shape Feature)
This fully interactive control allows you to infinitely adjust the response of the tone control network between British and American voicings. In this way you can design your own sound and find the sound in your head.
DPR (Dynamic Power Reduction)
The unique DPR system allows you to vary the amplifier output down to 10% of its rated power with no loss in tone or valve reliability. Pure valve output distortion and compression at any volume — a dream come true.
RR:
S1-45 — £899.00
S1-100 — £849.00
S1-200 — £1,199.00
S1-A412 — £579.00
S1 -B412 — £579.00
Visit Blackstar Amps’ official website for more information at www.blackstaramps.com
Johnson Amplification JT50 Mirage
March 24, 2009 by Chaz · Leave a Comment
Modeling amps shouldn’t be just for the rich, at least that’s the way Johnson Amplifications feel. The JT50 Mirage was a rockin’ member of the Johnson family. Keeping in the tradition of designing amps for the real working guitarist, the JT50 focused on giving complete flexibility over tone and effects.
Let’s start with the 12 modern and vintage amp models. The JT50’s exclusive V-Tube digital technology delivers the warmth and dynamic response you would think only possible for a real tube amplifier.
Accurate EQ points closely emulate some of the most sought after amps in the industry. To compliment your tone, a comprehensive effects section gives you 3 effects at a time. Select from one of the 6 Mod/Pitch effects, Delay, and 2 reverb types, each with individual controls that allow you to tailor your sound to your needs.
The JT50’s speaker compensated headphone output provides the means for practicing when running a speaker may not be desired or can be used as a stereo direct out simultaneously. A stereo FX loop keeps your favorite effects processors from gathering dust. The 21 user presets locations give you plenty of room for your own creations. And with a respectable 50-watts of power, you are assured of having enough juice for any live situation. Average used is around $150.00.
Visit Johnson-Amp.com for more information.
*note: Johnson JT50 Mirage is no longer in production
Gear-Vault Classifieds is an eBay alternative. Come sell your used guitars and amps with us for free.
Marshall JCM2000 DSL / TSL
Three All-Tube combs that go all the way to “Pristine Clean.”
From day one, Marshall tube amps have been synonymous with great overdrive from all walks of rock in roll. From Bluesbreaker to Ballbreaker, they’ve done it all. Marshall is set about conquering the sacred kingdom of clean tone — the underdrive. Entering three all-tube combos: 20-watt; 1×12 DSL201, 40-watt; 1×12 DSL401 and the 100-watt; 2×12 TSL122.
During a rave review in November, 1998 issue of GuitarPlayer: “…the TSL122′s pristine, complex clean sounds and cranium crushing distortions will surprise and delight.” The DSL201 and DSL401 are carved from the exact same piece of tone rock. So whether you overdrive or under-drive the Marshall DSL / TSL series, the results are truly awesome.
With totally independent, footswitchable channels, reverb, a parallel FX loop, the critically acclaimed Speaker Emulation output and custom voiced Celestion speakers, the DSL / TSL combos are as versatile as they are toneful. For added flexibility, the DSL401 has a third footswitchable sound, OD2, and yes, a LED footswitch is supplied with all three amps.
Sure, the Marshall combo amps have tones of overdrive that goes right off the richter scale. But they also have a clean sound that just might be the best you’ve ever heard. Don’t take our word for it, go try one out and hear for yourself!
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Electro-Harmonix Bassballs Envelope Follower
March 19, 2009 by Chaz · Leave a Comment
The Electro-Harmonix Bassballs is a twin dynamic envelope follower for electric guitar and bass. The Bassballs uses two critically tuned, sweeping dynamic filters that respond sensitively to attack variations by creating shifting peaks and notches that produce vowel-like overtones. The switchable distortion mode intensifies the overtones and the deep resonance of the effect. The sensitivity control determines how the filters respond to playing dynamics.
Average Used Price: $25.00
Buy – Sell – Trade: GEAR SEARCH
Hamer Newport and Newport Pro Hollowbody Guitar
March 17, 2009 by Chaz · 3 Comments
Hamer’s Newport Series hollowbody guitars feature an ivoroid-bound Honduras mahogany neck and body and a hand-carved, arched spruce top with two f-holes. Newport guitars also feature two Hamer Phat Cat single-coil pickups, which are hand-built in Seymour Duncan’s custom shop. The Phat Cat’s wide-shape allows players to switch to a humbucking pickup without having to alter the pickup cavity. Newport guitars come stock with Tune-O-matic bridge, Bigsby vibrato, Grover Super Rotomatic tuners and Transparent Orange Sparkle finish. Read more
Marshall MG15MSII Lead 15 Micro Stack
March 16, 2009 by Chaz · Leave a Comment
Marshall MG15MS Lead 15 Micro Stack
The Marshall Micro Stack measures just 37 inches high and features 15 watts of sound and a built-in spring reverb. Twin gain controls are provided for the preamp as well as controls for master volume, bass, treble and contour. The MG15 has two speaker cabinets—one angled and one straight—each loaded with a 10-inch custom-voiced speaker. The amp also has a headphone jack, which mutes the load speakers when engaged, a CD input and line-out hack.
Marshall MG15MSII Microstack is a complete Marshall stack that will fit into any room. The amplifier is based around the MG15CDR and features two channels, spring reverb and Marshall’s proprietary FDD (frequency dependant damping) technology. Supplied with two 1 x 10 inch speaker cabinets its looks and sounds great. The dream of owning a Marshall stack has now become a reality!
Marshall MG15MSII Micro Stack Guitar Amplifer Specs:
- 15 Watts of Marshall Power
- Designed by the Valvestate team
- Twin Gain Controls for maximum preamp flexibility
- Controls for Bass, Treble, and Contour for maximum tonal flexibility
- Master Volume control
- Spring Reverb
- Headphone jack which mutes loud speakers
- CD input
- Line Out jack
- Two 1×10 in. cabinets – 1 angled, 1 straight
- Custom voiced speakers
- Incredible low end
Estimated used price: $150.00 Gear Search
Buy – Sell – Trade USED MUSIC GEAR at GEAR-VAULT CLASSIFIEDS
Dean EVO Special Electric Guitar
March 16, 2009 by Chaz · Leave a Comment
Dean’s EVO Special features a traditional, yet sleek body design and classic humbucking pickups. The uniquely wired electronics includes a hum-canceling position output on the three-way switch.
The guitar is fully bound and features a mahogany neck and body. It’s available in flame red, Flame Blue, Quilt Black, Quilt Amberburst, Quilt Vintage Sunburst, Tiger Eye and Vintage Sunburst finishes. (The EVO is also available as an EVO 60 incorporating soap bar pickups) New price $419 – $449
Average used price is around $200 – $250
Buy – Sell – Trade at USED MUSIC GEAR at GEAR-VAULT CLASSIFIEDS
The EVO is a perfect blend of vintage design, old world craftsmanship and decades of guitar building technology. The Dean EVO is truly the ‘Evolution of Guitar Design’ at its finest. With a deep dished, carved, ultra thick flame maple top on a select Honduras mahogany body, the EVO achieves incredible sustain and astonishing tones. The EVO also features a neck joined at the body with our exclusive angular neck joint. Dean’s neck joint was specially designed to attain the optimum in playability and ultimate resonance.
Features
- Arched Maple Top
- Mahogany Body
- 24-5/8 in. Scale & 1-5/8 in. Nut
- Grover Tuners
- Nickel Hardware
- Zebra Pickups
- Tune-O-Matic Bridge
- Set Mahogany Neck
- Wood Binding
- Rosewood Fingerboard
- MOP Hourglass Inlays
- 22 Frets
