I honestly can’t think of two more different high gain amps, contextually speaking. The Herbert to me, is the greatest high gain amp on the planet... for recording... I wouldn’t use it live. I own 9 amps: Mesa rev F, modded Marshall’s, 5150s, driftwood etc. I’ve owned it all. Literally I can only think of a few high gain amps I haven’t owned. I keep what I love. With that said, the Herbert is one of the most special amps I’ve ever played or owned for a number of situations, but live wouldn’t be one of them... however, I’ve never played the mk3
so take that into consideration. Most people always desire the newest incarnation of something ( fractal comes to mind here) but I have absolutely no desire to try the mk 3 Herbert, given the fact the original is so mind blowing to me, and I haven’t heard a buzz loud enough about the mk3 for me to warrant a care in the world about owning it. I’m sure it’s great none the less. The Herbert is my probably my dessert island recording amp because it just fits so many projects and sounds no matter what I throw at it. It’s hi fi, extreme clarity and sub dued midrange are god like in a mix to me. And it’s low end simply can no be beat. It’s a winner. No doubt about it.... but maybe not for your situation...
On the other side, I personally can not stand Friedman Amps for just about anything. Do they sound good? Yes, but like how a really good practice amp sounds good in the room. Does it sound like a practice amp? No, that’s not what I’m saying. What I am saying is, Friedman takes all the frequencies that people think are “harsh” or “too bright” and flattens them out. And what you are left with is a perfectly polished high gain guitar tone that has absolutely no high end or teeth or aggression that wouldn’t work for anything... for ME. They are extremely dark, flat, and honestly just sound “neutered” to me. Like a Marshall that they took everything out of it that makes it a Marshall and cut through, and neutered it. Again, just my opinion. You’re gonna get the warriors in here that are going to flame me. Couldn’t care less. Not a fan in the least. The Herbert is on another planet than the Friedman as far as tone to me... however....
I doubt either of these are going to be what you want. I’d start searching elsewhere if live playing is a huge concern
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