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BGRA: Gallien-Krueger 800 RB
| Manufacturer |
Gallien-Krueger |
Model |
800 RB |
| Reviewer |
Randall Rosenberg |
Email |
n |
| Experience |
18 |
Item owned |
2-5 years |
| Review Date |
2002-11-01 |
Price paid |
$325 (used) |
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Dimensions | W=17.5" x H=5.25" x D=9.5" |
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Weight | 23 lbs. |
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Power | 350 lows/50 highs |
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Other | 10 dB cut pad, three voicing filters, low cut, contour, and high boost, bi-amp and switchable cross-over, foot switchable boost |
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I bought the GK 800 RB used for $325, its a slightly older design than the
one currently offered. I had heard of its reputation for providing big,
punchy bottom and for being indestructable, both necessary qualities for
my classic rock band. It was the best deal I ever made. The bi-amp
capability gives me a lot of tonal flexibility, and I currently run an SWR
2x10 top and a 1x15 Carvin bottom. The tones I get from the rig range
from a super articulate piano-sound to a moderately overdriven crunch
tone. For those who need a more modern sound, the 800RB can also provide
stinging treble, particularly when using the voicing filters. I have
received numerous compliments on my bass tone over the last several years,
including from other bass players.
The amp is built like a tank. I have dropped it several times and never
had any problems with it. The customer support was there when I needed
answers to a few questions and they sent me a manual promptly upon my
request.
Problems: Very few. The amp gets hot, especially for sustained periods
of high output, and could use a cooling fan. Also, the bottom is rated at
4 ohms, the top at 8 ohms. You cannot use less than 8 ohms impedence on
the top or you will suffer the consequences. Fortunately, I checked this
out with the GK customer support line before frying my rig.
This is a straight ahead, reliable, no gimmicks amp, so if you want
compression, effects, or modeling capability, you need to look elsewhere.
I will always keep this as my primary amp, no matter what new glitzy
techno-gizmo I get fooled into buying. I am interested, however, in
upgrading or adding a 4x10 cabinet to see if this gives me even better
responsiveness and bottom end.
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| construction |
 | (95%) |
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| clarity |
| (95%) |
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| versatility |
| (90%) |
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| volume |
| (98%) |
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| service |
| (95%) |
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| value |
| (95%) |
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| overall |
| (98%) |
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