What 3 channel amp to get?

[Oblivion DC]

Oblivion what's changing the tubes like on a framus? Is it simple like a rectifier or do I need to bias them every time

You need to bias them - but the Cobra has bias test points at the back of the amp as well as an adjustment port. Get a multimeter and set it for volts. It'll give you a fairly accurate reading. You will need to know the plate voltage in order to set the bias but once you learn what it is you won't need to open the amp up again.

EDIT: Not sure what kind of sound you're going for but this is a room recording of my old Cobra. Just some noodling, testing levels and feedback, nothing special.

https://soundcloud.com/oblivion_dc/framus-cobra

I remember this audio clip from an ampfest video. You were playing some sort of white Rhoads V. That was an FJA modded Framus, correct? That amp sounds killer.

Yeah man, that's right. It's was only a little modded I think I had a choke put in and a slight reduction in the gain and had it set to run KT88s. I was using a Bare Knuckle Aftermath in the bridge of an ESP Alexi "Scythe". I liked how raw it sounded but I was having a hard time getting the loop to behave.
I'll definitely get another one in the future but I'll probably leave it stock.

 

[chunktone]

I've been very happy with my Framus Dragon!

 

[BrentSSL]

Oblivion great clip by the way thanks a ton really helped give me an idea of the amp

 

[Oblivion DC]

Oblivion great clip by the way thanks a ton really helped give me an idea of the amp

For the record - that was the Crunch channel boosted with an Maxon od-808.

 

[GtarLover]

I don't know if you have a strict budget, however Diezel Herbert covers the ground you are looking to cover and has 3 KILLER channels, mid-cut option, an awesome loop, 2 MV controls for boost, AND is midi capable for switching. Total package, IMO.
Played mine live for a long while in the cover thing...did it ALL!! With ease.

Moved to a bit of a different vibe currently, so the Axe FX is working for me for its versatility and all-in-one options. The integration with the Fractal foot controller is sublime.

Also, the Friedman BE 100 is what many touring players are going to. Technically not 3 channels, yet clean, BE, HBE covers a lot of ground again. Nice loop, variety of function switches for versatility, and great tone.

Finally, someone already mentioned the Bogner XTC 20th. 3 channels, a multitude of tonal options with it's switches, great loop, and Bogner chewiness- smoothness-clean sparkle-killer lead, etc. I'm sure you know what this is.

Although I have never owned a 5153, for the price you can't go too wrong. Always in demand so if it doesn't fit, resell.
I guess that applies to any of these. All are "in demand" amps and could easily be resold for very little, if any, loss.

Good luck

 

[MARK1970]

PT100

 

[NinjaRaf]

I found what I was looking for in a Mesa Mark V.

 

[///MK]

I found what I was looking for in a Mesa Mark V.

^^^For what you are looking for this or the EVH 5150III I dont see an alt without paying much more.

 

[BrentSSL]

Love the Herbert awesome amp little pricey right now but for sure considering that and the XTC after Christmas.

 

[GOHOINC]

XTC all the way.