Hello! My first post!! Amp questions..

[Z_13]

Hello, everyone!! It's an honor to be a part of this forum. I have used this site for plenty of research, and references. Figured I might as well join all of you fine people!

A little about me:

I'm 31, and live outside of Detroit. I've been playing guitar for about half of my life, and know it's something that will never go away. I love music. Music means everything to me. My friends call me, Z. Which is a nickname I acquired while touring with my last band a few years back. My lucky number is 13 (explains my username). I love almost all styles/genres of music. Can't really get into the pop thing, or the R&B thing...but anything from Blues to Heavy Metal (excluding Djent) is right up my alley!

Well, I'm not all that good at introductions, but I gave it an attempt! I'm excited to be a part of this community! Looking forward to some good, intellectual conversations!

My first question ever on Rig Talk is about guitar amps, and which one might be right for me. I know this is a question a lot of people don't like to answer, and I understand. What you want is probably different than what I want...so how can you recommend an amp? However, I'm just looking for ANY advice, ANY help at all. If you have experience with one, or two of these amps, then please chime in and just let me know what you think of them.

I currently own a Friedman BE-100, and love it. However, I always feel like I'm missing something. I can't ever put my finger on it, but there is always something more I want for the amp I have. In this case I want more versatility.

So, here are the amps I'm considering:
HK Triamp Mk3
ENGL SE e670
Diezel VH4
Diezel Herbert
Bogner Ecstacy 101b

What really sucks is that there are no music stores in my area that carry any of these. So, I have to reply on YouTube videos, forums, reviews, and comparisons. Which is one of the reason I am here! I've used this forum so many times for help, I'm hoping someone can lend me some on this topic!

What I'm looking for in the amp is versatility, I want it to be able to almost do anything I want. Clarity, I want it to be as clean as possible...not necessarily the clean channel, but the overall amps clarity. Kind of like the BE-100, where you can have the gain dimed out, and the SAT switch activated, played a G Maj, and hear every single note. I'm a big fan of that. Gain, this is one of the only ares on the Friedman that I don't like. I want there to be more gain than I'll ever need, like the Uberschalls I have owned in the past. I never turned the gain past 2 o'clock on the Uber, otherwise it was just too much. Right now I have the gain on 10, and the SAT switch activated on the BE-100, and it still feels like there is just not enough on tap for me.

The clean channel doesn't need to be sparkly clean. I'm planning on A/Bing the rig with a Fender, or Vox combo. However, if the amp can have a sparkly clean sound, and a huge, massive gain channel....I'm sold!

At this point I should just get a Fractal, or Kemper...

I don't know what else to say...if you guys have any questions that might help guide me in the right direction, please ask!

Once again, I really...truly have no way of trying out any of these amps...so any advice would be greatly, GREATLY appreciated!! Thank you all so very much!

~ Z

 

[maddnotez]

Having just purchased my first Modeler I would definitely recommend the AX8 for versatility. I have not had it too long so I cannot say how clean the cleans can get but I have found some great high gain sounds in that box and it is very "clean" sounding.

I play high gain metal and after running it through the PA at band practice that is one thing I immediately noticed was how much cleaner it sounded than a tube amp.

With that said from the clips and research I have done, I think the VH4 and the 101b would both suit you very well. I would probably opt for the Bogner BUT the VH4 may be a little cleaner or Hifi sounding?

 

[MetalHeadMike]

Welcome aboard dude!

The only amp in your list that I have owned is the Herbert. It can have great clarity and has tons of gain. I found I needed to clean boost it up front for my metal needs. Was not near tight enough and articulate enough for me unless I did that. Once boosted it was VERY defined with more gain than you'd need on Ch3. Ch2+ with the gain at 3-4 o' clock was awesome. Mine was an MKI. Surprisingly good classic rock tones but definitely unique with the Diezel vibe. Cleans I don't use but they were very very impressive. Mine Had all EL34s in it.

Never played the ENGL SE e670, but I am biased towards Engl. I have owned a few, played a few more, and currently own the FB100 and Savage 120. The Engl stuff IMO is the epitome of clarity and note separation/definition. You will hear EVERYTHING clearly and with articulation! I don't play it this way but I can max the gain on the FB and its still the most defined gain structure ever. The Savage is ULTRA clear and defined (at least the one I have is: 2014 with the huge upgraded tranny(s)).

I know you specified from within a list, but there is many others out there too that offer great clarity under high gain settings.

Although I'm not a fan of any of the EVH lineup (don't like the voicing), I did own the 50 and 100 watt and both had excellent clarity on Ch2 Blue. It did lack gain though w/out a boost IMO. Great rock tones on the Blue. CLeans, again don't play and don't even remeber hitting the clean at all when I owned them. The red Ch for me was a different story. Just didn't get on with the red at all.

 

[mudf00t]

Welcome.

 

[Z_13]

Having just purchased my first Modeler I would definitely recommend the AX8 for versatility. I have not had it too long so I cannot say how clean the cleans can get but I have found some great high gain sounds in that box and it is very "clean" sounding.

I play high gain metal and after running it through the PA at band practice that is one thing I immediately noticed was how much cleaner it sounded than a tube amp.

With that said from the clips and research I have done, I think the VH4 and the 101b would both suit you very well. I would probably opt for the Bogner BUT the VH4 may be a little cleaner or Hifi sounding?

Thanks for the reply! In regards to the 101b, how much gain is on tap? On either the blue, or red channel? I love Bogner tone, and have played a Shiva, and have owned a Rev 2, Rev Blue, and Twin Jet Uber. Now, I know the XTC won't have as much gain as the Uber, clearly....but how much does it really have? I've also heard the 20th anniversary XTC w/6L6 tubes has even more gain, and bottom end. Is this true?

The only negatives I've heard of the VH4 is that it almost has a "synthetic" sound to it?

A Fractal is calling my name though...I can hear it in the distance. I'm just one of those "old school" tube amp guys. I'm slowly getting over it though..I just feel like a Fractal might be my best option. To me it's one of those, "If I can't find a tube amp to do what I want, then I'll get a Fractal".

 

[Z_13]

Welcome aboard dude!

The only amp in your list that I have owned is the Herbert. It can have great clarity and has tons of gain. I found I needed to clean boost it up front for my metal needs. Was not near tight enough and articulate enough for me unless I did that. Once boosted it was VERY defined with more gain than you'd need on Ch3. Ch2+ with the gain at 3-4 o' clock was awesome. Mine was an MKI. Surprisingly good classic rock tones but definitely unique with the Diezel vibe. Cleans I don't use but they were very very impressive. Mine Had all EL34s in it.

Never played the ENGL SE e670, but I am biased towards Engl. I have owned a few, played a few more, and currently own the FB100 and Savage 120. The Engl stuff IMO is the epitome of clarity and note separation/definition. You will hear EVERYTHING clearly and with articulation! I don't play it this way but I can max the gain on the FB and its still the most defined gain structure ever. The Savage is ULTRA clear and defined (at least the one I have is: 2014 with the huge upgraded tranny(s)).

I know you specified from within a list, but there is many others out there too that offer great clarity under high gain settings.

Although I'm not a fan of any of the EVH lineup (don't like the voicing), I did own the 50 and 100 watt and both had excellent clarity on Ch2 Blue. It did lack gain though w/out a boost IMO. Great rock tones on the Blue. CLeans, again don't play and don't even remeber hitting the clean at all when I owned them. The red Ch for me was a different story. Just didn't get on with the red at all.

Thanks, brother!!! It's a pleasure to be here!

A few years back the Herbert was one of my dream amps. The video clips I watched, the reviews I read...even the way the amp looked. Everything about it was almost perfect...for some reason I slowly drifted away from the amp. I don't really know why. I'd still take one though!

In your own words, why do you gravitate towards ENGL? What is it about their amps that keeps you coming back? Once again, just looking for opinions..

Also, just because I don't know at all....in order, what is ENGL's highest gain amp, to their most vintage voiced? I know of the Savage, Invader, Fireball, Ironball, Powerball, etc....but what are the main differences??

Lastly, what boost do you use in front of these amps?

Thanks!!

 

[Z_13]

Welcome.

Thanks, bro!

 

[rickenbacker198]

I live a couple hours north of you.
You can come check out the Herbert and VH4 if you want.
I've always wanted to try a BE.

This place is closer ,I visited a quite few years back, super nice guy, not sure if he's still around.
Had lots of Diezels and Engls in stock, among others.
http://www.motorcityamps.com/mca.htm

I don't find the VH4 synthetic at all. It's just not brown sounding , clearer, not much sag.
As for modeles I think they sound great, in the studio I use them a lot.
But for playing out Im old school , I tried to use the kemper live , just missed the feel of a tube amp moving air behind me., especially when doing things with feedback- ebow, It felt disconnected.

Amps are inspiring.

 

[Z_13]

I live a couple hours north of you.
You can come check out the Herbert and VH4 if you want.
I've always wanted to try a BE.

This place is closer ,I visited a quite few years back, super nice guy, not sure if he's still around.
Had lots of Diezels and Engls in stock, among others.
http://www.motorcityamps.com/mca.htm

I don't find the VH4 synthetic at all. It's just not brown sounding , clearer, not much sag.
As for modeles I think they sound great, in the studio I use them a lot.
But for playing out Im old school , I tried to use the kemper live , just missed the feel of a tube amp moving air behind me., especially when doing things with feedback- ebow, It felt disconnected.

Amps are inspiring.

Motor City Amps...hmm, I'll check them out! Thanks, man!

I appreciate the offer to come, and check out the amps. I'll let you know if I plan on coming out. Right now transportation is limited, so I can't guarantee it. I really appreciate the offer!

I really need to check out a VH4...I feel like it could be that one stop amp I'm looking for. The Triamp, VH4, and e670 all seem to be the most versatile amps....at least the most versatile that I've come across.

There is a good chance I'll be selling my BE on here, or Reverb soon. I'm itching to get a new amp...one that's a little more "up my alley".

Thanks for the response!!

 

[JackBootedThug]

welcome to the nuthouse...

 

[Z_13]

Hahaha, thanks!

 

[Mailman1971]

Welcome man! Where about you located? I am up in the Frankenmuth area.
Lot of Michigan guys here.

 

[Z_13]

Welcome man! Where about you located? I am up in the Frankenmuth area.
Lot of Michigan guys here.

Thanks, brother!! I It does seem like a lot of folks are from the mitten state, very cool!! I live in the Westland area. Frankenmuth is a beautiful place, man!

 

[Z_13]

Welcome. If you can get a VH4. YOU won't regret it.

Thanks! The VH4 is moving up my list, seems to be an awesome amp according to the reviews, and videos I've watched. Kind of surprised no one has talked about the Tri Amp yet, is it not that good? A little overrated?

 

[JackBootedThug]

stevek was selling a herbert cheap. monster amp...I had a vh4, and I loved it, but there's just something about the herbert....

 

[midnightlaundry]

This forum is about who has the biggest 80's cock, and the most gear for street cred regardless of talent level..

 

[garey77]

Dunno if I agree w/that. There are some pretty talented ppl here... Oh, and WELCOME btw!!!

This forum is about who has the biggest 80's cock, and the most gear for street cred regardless of talent level..

 

[MetalHeadMike]

Welcome aboard dude!

The only amp in your list that I have owned is the Herbert. It can have great clarity and has tons of gain. I found I needed to clean boost it up front for my metal needs. Was not near tight enough and articulate enough for me unless I did that. Once boosted it was VERY defined with more gain than you'd need on Ch3. Ch2+ with the gain at 3-4 o' clock was awesome. Mine was an MKI. Surprisingly good classic rock tones but definitely unique with the Diezel vibe. Cleans I don't use but they were very very impressive. Mine Had all EL34s in it.

Never played the ENGL SE e670, but I am biased towards Engl. I have owned a few, played a few more, and currently own the FB100 and Savage 120. The Engl stuff IMO is the epitome of clarity and note separation/definition. You will hear EVERYTHING clearly and with articulation! I don't play it this way but I can max the gain on the FB and its still the most defined gain structure ever. The Savage is ULTRA clear and defined (at least the one I have is: 2014 with the huge upgraded tranny(s)).

I know you specified from within a list, but there is many others out there too that offer great clarity under high gain settings.

Although I'm not a fan of any of the EVH lineup (don't like the voicing), I did own the 50 and 100 watt and both had excellent clarity on Ch2 Blue. It did lack gain though w/out a boost IMO. Great rock tones on the Blue. CLeans, again don't play and don't even remeber hitting the clean at all when I owned them. The red Ch for me was a different story. Just didn't get on with the red at all.

Thanks, brother!!! It's a pleasure to be here!

A few years back the Herbert was one of my dream amps. The video clips I watched, the reviews I read...even the way the amp looked. Everything about it was almost perfect...for some reason I slowly drifted away from the amp. I don't really know why. I'd still take one though!

In your own words, why do you gravitate towards ENGL? What is it about their amps that keeps you coming back? Once again, just looking for opinions..

Also, just because I don't know at all....in order, what is ENGL's highest gain amp, to their most vintage voiced? I know of the Savage, Invader, Fireball, Ironball, Powerball, etc....but what are the main differences??

Lastly, what boost do you use in front of these amps?

Thanks!!

The Engl voicing is the primary reason I gravitate towards them. Its in the mids and lows I think. The articulation is another huge factor for me. The clarity is phenomenal. The amount and usability of the gain sweep is another reason.

Highest gain amp by Engl hmmm.... I haven't played all of them so I can't answer that in good confidence same goes for the most vintage.

The Fireball 100 has a stupid amount of gain, more than the Savage 120, and its all 110% usable if you wanted to play with that much. I do not; usually play the FB100 between 10 and 1 o' clock depending on what type of metal I'm playing.

There are quite a few differences between the FB100 and Savage 120 IMO, but I'll stick to the biggest difference I see in a metal context. The FB100=low mid grunt and growl and has a huge low end if you want it and the Savage 120=upper mid bark and bite. I'll add that I perceive the Savage to be more open, less compressed/processed (or organic if you like that term), and crunchy than the FB100. The Savage 120, at least the post 2011 version like I have, is the tightest amp I've ever encountered. I use no boost, it's that tight! However, the FB100 is WAY louder and has WAY bigger balls, and more girth, depth, and punch. I absolutely both amps.

I'm using a TS9 cause I got it on the cheap.

 

[midnightlaundry]

 

[Mailman1971]

I got a Engl Fireball 100 and a couple modded mesa's your more then welcome to come up and check em out.