Power amps

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Nick Fryer
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Power amps

Post by Nick Fryer »

I’ve done some searches but would like to try and start another conversation about what power amps people like. I’m looking to put together a small two space rack unit with a pre and a power amp. I have an Evans pre that I really like and now I’m looking to find a good power amp for it. I’ve been using my Quilter 101 head and it works great but I’d love to find a one space rack unit. I’m also interested in the Ganz Straight Ahead as an option and just mount it into the back of the cab. Another option I’m considering is a powered speaker. I’m open to any and all advice. Any thoughts on Stewart World? Palmer Mach I ? These are just a few (new to me names) that I’ve seen recently. If this thread feels redundant in any way, feel free to post a link to any past threads that speaks to any and all of this.

Thanks !
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Rick Baker
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Power Amp

Post by Rick Baker »

I use an Evans preamp with the straight ahead amp - KABOOM! super clean, as loud as you can want. The only down-side is you need a separate reverb (I use the Wet pedal) and a 15" TT. Light, as powerful and clear as you could ever hope for... and doesn't break the bank.
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Nick Fryer
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Post by Nick Fryer »

Thanks for the input! I might have to go that route. I’m not opposed to using a seperate reverb and actually like having the flexibility of using different pedals when needed.
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Jerry Overstreet
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Post by Jerry Overstreet »

🎶
Last edited by Jerry Overstreet on 15 Aug 2024 8:41 am, edited 1 time in total.
Steve Hinson
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...well...

Post by Steve Hinson »

Nick,Straight Ahead is a great piece of gear and will amplify whatever preamp you wanna use,as loud as you need it to...I had a couple of the Evans preamps you spoke of and sold them...wish I'd kept one-great!

Two great reverb pedals are Strymon"Flint"and Catalinbread"Topanga"...Flint also has a world class tremolo!

Best,
SH
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Nick Fryer
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Post by Nick Fryer »

Thanks Steve! I appreciate the advice.
Robert Parent
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Post by Robert Parent »

Nick,

I have been using a Roland GP100 and a Stewart PA200 power amp for several years. Made a rack mount adapter for the Stewart and everything fits into a 2 space SBK rack cabinet.

One could fit 2 Stewart PA series amps into one rack space if you can find them.

Robert
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Roger Crawford
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Post by Roger Crawford »

The Straight Ahead power is is a beast, and in a very small package.
Last edited by Roger Crawford on 15 Aug 2024 6:01 am, edited 1 time in total.
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Paddy Long
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Post by Paddy Long »

The Jay Ganz Straight Ahead is a great little power amp, compact and only about 2 lbs ... I have mine mounted in the back of one of my Telonics 15" cabinets with Velcro - perfect and totally noiseless... plenty of grunt as well at 500W
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Ken Metcalf
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Post by Ken Metcalf »

A powered speaker would be for low volume only.
Another vote for Straight Ahead amp.
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Nick Fryer
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Post by Nick Fryer »

Ken: thanks! That’s good to know.

You all have sold me on the Ganz. I already wanted one but was waffling but now it’s clear that it’s a must. I’ll be reaching out to purchase one here soon.

Thanks all!

- NF
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Brandon Mills
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Post by Brandon Mills »

For a 1 space power amp, Stuart has always been the go-to. When I played bass I remember the Peavey DCP also being a go-to for 1 space power amp…..
Greg Duncan
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Power amp

Post by Greg Duncan »

Seymour duncan
Powerstage 700
!!!!!