Showing posts with label bass guitar. Show all posts
Showing posts with label bass guitar. Show all posts

3/17/2012

Samick AB2 - Natural 4-string Regency Acoustic Bass with Case Review

Samick AB2 - Natural 4-string Regency Acoustic Bass with Case
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I have been taking lessons for the last 3 months. At 58 years old I doubt if I'll make it on the road. I can say this is a great guitar. The tones are deep, rich and clean. It also is a very player friendly guitar. Stings are very easy to connect with the frets. I found and bought it used but it appears to be in mint condition. I would highly recommend it to either the beginner or to the master. I like it very much.
As I stated I have only taken 3 months of lessons so consideration has to be taken when you check on out. Thanks and have a great day.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Samick AB2 - Natural 4-string Regency Acoustic Bass with Case

There is something almost indescribable about the warmth of acoustic music.The round tones, the musical purity, and the resonance generated by acoustic instruments draw the listener into the inner circle of the musical experience. The Acoustic Bass provides the foundation on which all other acoustic instruments build their harmony. A strong, sustaining tone yet a richness in its ability to blend, is the pure definition of an Acoustic Bass Guitar.

Buy NowGet 38% OFF

Click here for more information about Samick AB2 - Natural 4-string Regency Acoustic Bass with Case

Read More...

3/14/2012

Line 6 PODxt Review

Line 6 PODxt
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
This Line 6 Podxt is awesome and I have just started playing with it. I am sure there is so much things this Podxt can do I have just not discovered yet. It can give a direct studio recording or use it live or hook it straight to your desktop through a USB port. I can make it sound like my old Univox amp or I can make modern synth effects great for playing Industrial or make your own sounds. I even hooked my mic and made some great vocal effects as well.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Line 6 PODxt

The incredible sonic flexibility and quality of the original POD® is now super-charged. Get PODXT and you'll have Line 6's newest generation amp and cab models as found in our flagship Vetta amplifier. Combine that with over 60 classic stompbox and effect models, including hand-picked selections from our award-winning stompbox modeler series. Route the effects stompbox-style before the amp, or run 'em after. You want to put your fuzz through a tape delay and run it all in front of a small tweed amp? How about a lumpy vibe in to a high-powered "treadplate" head with a 1x8 speaker cab miked off-axis and dressed up with stereo delays? You're only scratching the surface.
But wait - there's more! PODXT has our newest-generation A.I.R. II cabinet/microphone modeling which allows you to choose from 4 different classic mic models and even adjust how much of the room sound you hear! There's even a dedicated studio-quality compressor. Add a bit of verb (spring, plate, hall or room) and now you're ready to track.
PODXT even has a USB digital in/out for direct digital computer recording. And its flash-based memory means easy upgrades to keep your PODXT on the cutting edge.
With 128 user/factory presets, many based on some of the most popular guitar songs ever recorded, you'll have instant access to an unbelievable collection of classic guitar rigs. Imagine the sonic possibilities of having all the coolest amps, cabs, mics, stompboxes, and studio reverbs all tweaked, wired-up, and ready to go.
Based on the most prized amplifiers in the history of guitar, PODXT Live features 42 classic and modern amp models and 24 cab models, all run through 4 incredibly precise and dynamic microphone model options to provide a complete tonal palette for any type of live gig or studio session. This amazing collection of Line 6® Amp Models has been used on countless hit recordings and tours and is now on the floor at your disposal.
Amplifier Models Inspiration never comes easy. When you're creating your music, the last thing you want to do is fight with your gear for the right tone. With POD® XT, finding that elusive tone is easy.
PODXT is the next generation in the Line 6® POD® family and sets a new standard for guitar tone. We've amassed a dream collection of the most popular amplifiers and meticulously measured and analyzed every tonal aspect to bring you their amazing sonic signatures. PODXT features 42 groundbreaking amp models built from the award-winning technology found in our flagship Vetta™ amplifier.
Cabinet and Microphone Models PODXT features 24 models of the most historic speaker cabinets ever built. From modern to vintage, you'll have the ultimate collection. And it doesn’t stop there. PODXT has our newest-generation A.I.R. II cabinet/microphone modeling which allows you to choose from 4 different classic mic models and even adjust the position of the mic and how much of the room you hear. PODXT's ability to mix and match speakers cabinets and mics will help you find the vibe that you're looking for.
Stompbox and Studio Effects POD® XT packs 50 stunningly-crafted models of classic stompbox and studio effects. Many of these effects are based on* highly sought after classics like the Octavia, Big Muff Pi®, Uni-Vibe, and CE-1 Chorus Ensemble.
And with flexible routing, you can mix and match up to 6 of these effects simultaneously. Now you've got an arsenal of tools to that will blow away even the most jaded guitarists and producers.
Chromatic Tuner While not as glamorous as all those nifty effects, every guitar player who’s come within two feet of a tremolo can’t live without a tuner. PODXT’s built-in Chromatic Tuner offers precision tuning at the touch of a button. Audio Mute or Bypass options with an adjustable tuning reference are featured as well as hands-free operation when used with the FBV series foot controllers.
Precision Chromatic Tuning
Audio Mute
Bypass
Hands-free Operation (with optional FBV-series foot controllers Check them out here!)

Ins and OutsPOD® XT is equipped to handle today’s guitar recording needs. Our 24-bit converters and 32-bit floating point processing create a killer tone, delivered through +4dBu balanced or -10dBV unbalanced 1/4 inch connectors. Or go digital with PODXT’s USB digital audio in and out for the most incredible tone available. MIDI lets you automate every move and our optional FBV generation foot controllers let you do it all with your feet. PODXT also comes with a high-power headphone output for silent jamming.

Creating Your Perfect Tone
While the presets, many of which are song based, are a great place to start looking for a great tone, sometimes you just want to roll your own. Critical tone controls are available as knobs on the main panel, but POD® XT also offers an intuitive, incredibly easy to use screen display for deep patch editing, where any tone shaping parameter is easily accessed and changed to generate your own sonic character.
Above the PODXT's display you'll find 5 effect on/off buttons where you can instantaneously defeat or enable stompboxes or rack-type effects. Double pressing each button allows you to edit the effects settings. Single pressing seamlessly switches the effect on or off.
Comp (Gate) This button accesses our model of a highly sought-after LA-2A® COMPRESSOR, as well as a lightning-fast NOISE GATE. You'll find a fully-adjustable threshold for each, as well as a completely variable decay time for the gate.
Stomp This is where PODXT's STOMPBOXES and vintage distortion models live. There are 10 classic stompboxes ranging from light overdrives, heavy distortions, and psychedelic 60's fuzzes. Whichever one you choose, you'll have complete control over the Drive, Gain and Tone knobs.
Mod PODXT comes with all the classic flavors of MODULATION like Chorus, Flanger, Phaser, Tremolo, Rotary and Vibe. Chorus like Andy, flange like Eddie, vibe like Jimi... it's all there.
Delay PODXT has faithful models of vintage tape echoes to modern marvels like tap-tempo stereo ping-pongs. You can adjust the delay time in milliseconds or by any note value you choose. Just like the original POD™, you can easily TAP in a song's tempo, and now you also have tap tempo control over modulation speeds. Imagine changing the speed of your tremolo along with your delay time right from the front panel - or via your foot using the optional FBV Shortboard.
Cab/AIR To top it off you can mix and match speaker cabinets, microphones (and even mic placement!) in the CABINET section. PODXT's next generation speaker cabinet models include all the historic speaker types you've come to know and love. You'll swear you're hearing the paint rattle off the studio walls thanks to Line 6's all new A.I.R. II technology.
Reverb PODXT gives you a full-time reverb knob just like your old standby. But in addition to the authentic spring tanks, you now have everything from vintage Plate reverbs to cavernous Halls.
* All product names used in this webpage are trademarks of their respective owners, which are in no way associated or affiliated with Line 6. These trademarks of other manufacturers are used solely to identify the products of those manufacturers whose tones and sounds were studied during Line 6’s sound model development.

Buy Now

Click here for more information about Line 6 PODxt

Read More...

2/27/2012

Line 6 GearBox Silver Bundle with Toneport D.I. USB Recording Interface Review

Line 6 GearBox Silver Bundle with Toneport D.I. USB Recording Interface
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
In XP, this thing was great. I upgraded to Vista, and now the outputs have an unacceptable pop and crackle. The Line6 forums are all abuzz about this problem, and there is no solution yet.
I heartily apologize. There was no solution at Line6, but I eventually ran across a fix. Unsurprisingly, Vista is to blame, specifically the power profiles on Vista. The fault lay in the processor power-state transitions. This works ok on Vista on a laptop if you select the "Always On" power state. (Actually, there's an occasional pop even then; if you disable power state transitions in your BIOS, I think you can get rid of them.)
My apologies, and I revise my rating to four stars.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Line 6 GearBox Silver Bundle with Toneport D.I. USB Recording Interface

GearBox Silver Bundle with TonePort D.I. is a powerful and portable USB recording interface that includes Gearbox Plug-In, the ideal guitar processing plug-in for Windows and Mac (Windows RTAS/VST, Mac RTAS/AU compatible). The USB recording interface provides unprecedented low latency monitoring and, with 12 dB more dynamic range than its competitors, offers the clearest, lowest noise for recording guitar. The Gearbox Silver plug-in provides the industry-standard POD and Amp Farm tones: an instant collection of brilliant sounds inspired by vintage and modern guitar amps, bass amps, stompboxes, effects and mic preamps essential for every guitarist, bassist and vocalist.

Buy NowGet 60% OFF

Click here for more information about Line 6 GearBox Silver Bundle with Toneport D.I. USB Recording Interface

Read More...

2/26/2012

Roland Micro Cube Bass RX Bass Combo Amp 4 X 4 In Review

Roland Micro Cube Bass RX Bass Combo Amp 4 X 4 In
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I have the original Roland MicroCube. As a bass player, everyone thought I was crazy for buying it, but I wanted something that I could play are really low volume after everyone goes to sleep. It works. But, the low B on my 5-string sounds like crap. I tried the CBRX at the store -- what a difference! The bass response is much better and the amp modeling & effects are designed for a bass, not a guitar. The added drum loops are a bonus. I would never gig with something this small, but I could see using it in the studio for going direct. It actually has nice tone at low volume. This would be perfect for jamming with a couple acoustic guitars.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Roland Micro Cube Bass RX Bass Combo Amp 4 X 4 In

Meet the MICRO CUBE RX Bass Combo Amp; it's small, loud, proud, and in true stereo! This amp overachieves with serious bombast in a small body. You won't believe how much this little combo can deliver through its stereo power amps and 4 newly developed custom speakers.A New Prescription for Bass Tone, Power and PortabilityThis compact amp is equipped with high-quality, powerful sound. The cutting-edge speakers used in the MICRO CUBE BASS RX are custom designed and built specially for these amps. With two specially made power amps and four speakers contained in each, the RX amp produces an immersive, stereo sound that must be heard to be believed. The true stereo engine also allows bass tones that defy the size of the cabinet. This amp can run on battery or AC power (AC adaptor included). COSM Amps & Digital EffectsGuitarists and bassists have come to rely on Roland and BOSS for the best effects in the world. The MICRO CUBE BASS RX benefit from this world-leading technology, offering eight built-in COSM amps, six digital effects, 3-band EQ, and a chromatic tuner. Its onboard stereo effects benefit from Roland's decades of industry-leading R&D. Experience the amazing spatial depth and lush sound of the stereo Chorus and Reverb.Work on your Timing with the Rhythm GuideThe metronome is a music-student's best friend, but that numbing "clank, clank, clank" can get irksome. That's where the Rhythm Guide comes in handy. It's like having a drummer inside your amp. Choose from an assortment of groovin' patterns to practice with. Improve your timing while having a more enjoyable musical experience, or just have fun jamming along to the beats.Outputs/InputsThe Phones/Recording output serves two purposes: Plug in a set of headphones and enjoy private practice with lush, stereo sound, or plug directly into a stereo mixer or recording device for accurate signal transfer directly from this amp. It has a line input that lets you plug in a guitar, bass, or microphone. In addition, th

Buy Now

Click here for more information about Roland Micro Cube Bass RX Bass Combo Amp 4 X 4 In

Read More...

2/05/2012

Jay Turser Jtb2b Violin Bass Sunburst Review

Jay Turser Jtb2b Violin Bass Sunburst
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
its a good bass for a copy if you cant aford a hofner this is your next best thing for the money,its got good playability its a decent little bass.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Jay Turser Jtb2b Violin Bass Sunburst

Classic violin shaped, 4-string semi-acoustic bass. If you play 60's - 70's influenced rock, and want a light-weight but remarkably solid bass, this classic will take you where you want to go! Fingerboard Rosewood Machine Heads Die cast machines Neck Joint Set Neck Material Maple Pickguard Pearl Controls 2 Volume, 3 Slide switch Pickups 2 Humbucking pickupsSunburst

Buy NowGet 34% OFF

Click here for more information about Jay Turser Jtb2b Violin Bass Sunburst

Read More...

12/23/2011

Hofner Icon Series Vintage Violin Bass, Transparent Black Review

Hofner Icon Series Vintage Violin Bass, Transparent Black
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
To qualify this, I have only been playing the bass for a few months at the time I'm writing this review...
I fell in like with the look of the Hofner Icon at the local Guitar Center and bought it. After a month of practice, lessons, and research, I happened upon a Hofner 500/1 vintage '63 reissue violin bass (hand made in Germany) at a hole-in-the wall music shop in downtown Chicago and fell in LOVE with it and it's amazing flatwound strings! I dropped nearly $2,000 and brought this beautiful instrument (such high quality that it should qualify as a piece of furniture) and returned my Icon with no regrets.
I may actually purchase another Icon soon and throw some flatwound strings (Hofners from North Coast Music) and use it for my travel bass when on vacation.
Here's what you need to know about the available Hofner basses:
ICON ($400ish)
-Made in China with Chinese electronics that can be quirky
-Fit and finish is adequate for the price point
-Regular roundwound strings with some fret buzz depending on setup
-Hollow body
-A pain in the butt getting a case sometimes! Go EBay or Amazon!
-Available in lefty (often with a case oddly)
CONTEMPORARY ($700ish)
-Made in China with German electronics
-Fit and finish adequate...slightly better than the Icon
-Has regular roundwound strings
-Hollow body BUT has a sound block inside giving it more sustain and a more modern, hence "contemporary" bass sound
-Has a neck bridge so you can slap on a McCartney-style Hofner strap!
-Available in lefty I believe?
-No case
GERMAN-MADE HOFNERS ($2,000 +)
-Hand-made in the Fatherland
-Fit and finish are amazing! Beautiful wood, stain, finish, feel
-Hofner (Pyramid) flatwound strings that give the most mellow "thump" and feel like butter!
-Comes with either a German vintage bullet case or flight case
-Available in lefty of course!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Hofner Icon Series Vintage Violin Bass, Transparent Black

With authentic details inspired by the original, the Hofner Icon Series Vintage Bass makes the legendary violin bass available to the rest of us. Don't get the idea that this a just a "nowhere man" look-alike. This quality instrument features a real spruce top and beautiful flamed maple back and sides. The semi-hollow body and set neck will give you the warm, round tone you expect from the violin bass. Rosewood fretboard, sunburst finish.The Icon Series Vintage Bass is featured in the video game Guitar Hero II for PlayStation 2.

Buy NowGet 26% OFF

Click here for more information about Hofner Icon Series Vintage Violin Bass, Transparent Black

Read More...

12/03/2011

Gallien-Krueger 1001 RB-II Bi-Amp Bass Amplifier Review

Gallien-Krueger 1001 RB-II Bi-Amp Bass Amplifier
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
As with most bass players, I started with economy gear. I very quickly learned how dramatic a difference high-end gear can make in the quality of your sound (when I upgraded to a Gallien-Krueger 115RBH Bass Guitar Cabinet (400 Watt)). The clarity of the sound when compared to my first cabinet ( Hartke VX410 Bass Guitar Amplifier 4x10 Cabinet, 400 watts) was astonishing! I knew the same would be true for the amplifier, and this was confirmed when I upgraded from the my first amp (Hartke 3500C Bass Guitar Amplifier Head, 350 Watts) to this Gallien-Kruger 1001RB(II). It has amazing power, clarity, and flexibility of tone (which becomes increasingly important as you start to play with other musicians).
I feel like I have discovered the Holy Grail of Bass Amplifiers! Thank you Bob Gallien, for your original vision, and for all your many years of commitment to excellent and innovation in developing and producing quality bass gear beyond the call of duty. You have made the world a better place for musicians as well as all those who listen to music! I hope to eventually add the (Gallien-Krueger 410RBH/8 Bass Guitar Cabinet (800 Watt)) to the rig (when I start playing larger venues).

Click Here to see more reviews about: Gallien-Krueger 1001 RB-II Bi-Amp Bass Amplifier

700 watt bass amp with 50 watt horn amp

Buy NowGet 30% OFF

Click here for more information about Gallien-Krueger 1001 RB-II Bi-Amp Bass Amplifier

Read More...

11/22/2011

Line 6 Low Down LD150 Amp Review

Line 6 Low Down LD150  Amp
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Upon reading reviews on Musicians Friend and some other sites I purchased the Lowdown 150 in December 2008. Out of the box, it sounded great though some of the presets are definitely lacking. The Smart Fx Envelope Filter is absolutely unusable though the Chorus effect is pretty decent. The amp simulators are okay. Rock preset is pretty sweet I gotta say.
I am a working musician and need to make sure that my gear is reliable and this amp has fallen short on small gigs, rehearsals and as a practice amp no less. The sound/volume seems to diminish the longer you play. For some reason the amp will change presets all on its own. Which has cost me a few dirty looks.. Thanks Line 6!
At this time there is some problem with the amp. It shuts down after being on for about 10 minutes as it heats up. (I take great care of my gear... never dropped or knocked around).
The only thing I have found this amp remotely useful for was practicing with the mp3/cd input, which many other amps come with. Aside from that, I wouldn't recommend this amp to my worst enemy! The warranty is up and I have a forty five pound paper weight in my practice space. The wiring schematics aren't available to the end user. So far the amp has been taken to a Line 6 repair shop and I still have the same problem. I'm taking it back again. Buyer Beware! The bells and whistles are mediocre at best and the amp itself has been nothing but a headache. Line 6 really needs to work on their bass line for amps. Look into buying another brand.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Line 6 Low Down LD150 Amp

Finally, timeless rock tone in an affordable combo! LowDown LD150 is part of a family line of bass amps from Line 6 and that delivers an incredible array of�dialed-in, stage-perfected bass tones with 5 killer bass amp models and effects that cover everything from funk to modern or classic rock and beyond.LowDown offers incredible sonic flexibility with a modeled vintage studio compressor, and critical bass-specific effects like Bass Synth, Chorus, Envelope Follower and Octaver.Plus, the oversized high-speed power amp has incredible articulation and low-end punch that's ideal for live or studio work.Features also include: 4 programmable channel memories (36 with a FBV Shortboard), headphone out, line in, and a studio quality XLR direct out with Line 6's exclusive Bass POD amp and cab modeling that's the go to for studio direct recording.At last, there is a bass amp that gives you great tone, performance, and flexibility all at an unbelievable price. �

Buy NowGet 29% OFF

Click here for more information about Line 6 Low Down LD150 Amp

Read More...

11/19/2011

Barcelona 43 Inch Metallic Blue Electric Bass with Carrying Bag and Accessories Review

Barcelona 43 Inch Metallic Blue Electric Bass with Carrying Bag and Accessories
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
This is the biggest piece of crap I have bought. The second is the guitar I bought with it. It had a dent in the side and it didn't come with the carrying bag and accessories that were suppose to come with it. It is made out of cheap material. I was embarassed to get it. It was suppose to a gift for a very hard working young lady who couldn't afford one. I will never buy instraments online because I can't try them out. I'd send it back but it isn't worth the money for shipping.
WHAT EVER YOU DO DON'T BUY A 43" METALLIC BLUE ELECTRIC BASS. I had to give this thing one start because it wouldn't let me submit this review without rateing. So officially I wouldn't give it any stars. I think we should take some away. Your better using your money as toilet paper if you wanna flush your money down the toilet.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Barcelona 43 Inch Metallic Blue Electric Bass with Carrying Bag and Accessories

Pickups - Split P-B P/U, Vol. Knob - 1, Tone Knob - 1, Accessories - Nylon bag, Tuner, Belt, Tremolo bar

Buy NowGet 69% OFF

Click here for more information about Barcelona 43 Inch Metallic Blue Electric Bass with Carrying Bag and Accessories

Read More...

11/05/2011

Native Instruments Guitar Rig 3 - Kontrol Version Review

Native Instruments Guitar Rig 3 - Kontrol Version
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
There's not much I can say that isn't already covered by professional testimonials, video reviews, and product demos.
In short, Guitar Rig 3 is an extremely versatile, powerful effects system. The hardware is extremely solid-- I've carried this thing around to live gigs, stuffed it in a backpack as carry-on for a plane ride, even spilled a little bit of beer on it (not recommended). The worst I've done is dinged it with a falling mic stand. It put a small scratch on it (similar to scratching the paint on a car door), but that's about it.
There's definitely a slight learning curve for the software itself, but you can download the demo from their website to see if it's too much for you to handle. All the help and tooltips are plenty to keep you moving along-- and spending more time playing music and less time twiddling knobs. However, the cool part is that if you like twiddling knobs and settings, you can spend countless hours dialing in all kinds of vintage, modern, or never-heard-before sounds. My friend, (a lead guitarist who owns an analog guitar pedal company), despite being a bit of a sound purist, was really impressed with the sheer number of tones I can emulate. Sometimes, the sounds have a tendency to be a little bit 'digital' sounding if you don't adjust them properly, but the software upgrade to Guitar Rig 4 supposedly improves some of this. (I haven't tried it yet myself). My solution was to add an analog pedal (Philosopher's Tone) to the front of my effects chain.
I use an Intel-based Macbook Pro and a Peavy KB3 amplifier.
PRO TIP: a keyboard amp is the way to go since they have a higher frequency range that allows you to get the full range of tones out of the software. If you go with a specific guitar amp, you may severely limit the variety of tones the software can produce. The software itself effectively mimics all kinds of vintage amps--more than most people could ever afford to own. This may seem unintuitive, but if you spend a little time on the Guitar Rig forums, you'll find this out from others' experience too.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Native Instruments Guitar Rig 3 - Kontrol Version

GUITAR RIG 3 is the ultimate all-in-one guitar and bass solution. Simply connect your guitar with your computer via the enhanced Rig Kontrol 3 foot pedal and you are ready to go. The on-board studio-quality soundcard routes the signal to your speakers, while the software grants you access to an incredible number of perfectly modeled classic amps, cabinets, mics and effects - all arranged in a super-simple drag-and-drop rack format. Any style, any time - the perfect solution for professional studio and live setups.

Buy NowGet 32% OFF

Click here for more information about Native Instruments Guitar Rig 3 - Kontrol Version

Read More...

11/01/2011

Gallien-Krueger 800RB Bi-Amp Bass Amplifier (300/100 Watt) Review

Gallien-Krueger 800RB Bi-Amp Bass Amplifier (300/100 Watt)
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I was actively playing shows as part of a succession of bands for about an eight year span of time, and for about six of those years the 800RB bass head was my rig. It went through several levels of hell; clubs, outdoor shows, extreme temps, extreme moisture, etc... and it was a steady and dependable performer. I never had to have it serviced and it never quit on me.
While the amp is rated at 400 watts total, it should be made absolutely clear that this is really two amplifiers (300/100) in a single unit. It states clearly in the manual that you should never hook up both amplifier outputs to the same speaker. There's a pre-amp section that includes a basic EQ, a switchable effects loop out/in, a master volume/gain, and a footswitchable boost(loudness) adjustment as well. The boost adjustment is great because it can provide you with some pretty good distortion options.
The style of music I was mainly playing was hard rock/metal, but also used the amp for industrial/electro-rock and a little bit of jazzy lounge music. The 800RB has just enough adjustments available via the EQ section and the preamp/gain knobs so that it can deliver a wide variety of tonal options. It truly excels, however, when you're going with straight ahead rock. I liked to set mine with the "California Smile" EQ (boost the 60hz and 4khz and "scoop" out everything else...) which the 800RB was able to accomodate perfectly.
I was using the dual amp configuration to run both a Mesa/Boogie 4x10" PowerHouse 8ohm cab along with a 1x15" of indeterminate make/model. In the bigger clubs with weak or non-existent PA's, I did have trouble with filling the room, but I think that had more to do with my speaker setup than the amplifier itself. I was able to keep up with the guys that were running the Ampeg 215/SVT rigs, and the additional bite of overdrive distortion was similar to what they could acheive with their tube amps.
One thing though - after I purchased the amp I immediately secured it in a dedicated hard plastic roadcase with enough room to breathe on top and underneath, and I think that made all the difference in the world regarding it's durability.
I would definitely recommend this amplifier to anybody that wants a fairly simple, maintenance-free, and durable bass amp head to play in the practice space or take on the road. The 800RB has a well-deserved reputation as one of THE choices for 'Gig Warriors', and having used one as the heart of my rig for more than 1000 hours of playing and full volume practice, I can attest to it's ability to back up the reputation.
However, if you're looking for an amp head that is clean and pristine enough to use as a recording rig, you might want to go with something a little more high-end, because the one issue that I encountered with this amp head is that it has slightly 'noisy' electronics that can create some sound issues when you're using it plugged straight into the board.
So, while this amp may not have as many knobs or pretty lights as some of the other amps out there, it's got enough functions/adjustments to satisfy most bassists, and it's purpose-built so that it will never break.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Gallien-Krueger 800RB Bi-Amp Bass Amplifier (300/100 Watt)

300/100 watt bi-amp bass amplifier

Buy Now

Click here for more information about Gallien-Krueger 800RB Bi-Amp Bass Amplifier (300/100 Watt)

Read More...

9/28/2011

Line 6 Guitar Port XT USB Guitar Interface Review

Line 6 Guitar Port XT USB Guitar Interface
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I purchased the Guitar Port XT to try to eliminate a lot of the pedals I have in my set up while also getting a few more effects that I do not have. That was kind of a hit and miss affair. The effects built in are good. They are also highly tweekable so you can get just about any sound you want. You can't change effects on the fly, so you'd still need rack effects to accomplish that. But, for most of my purposes, I just need a distortion or overdrive attached after the line out along with a wah, envelope filer, and maybe a flanger (since there isn't one in the software).
As far as the software is concerned, it's OK but not wonderful. It's a bit of a chore to set up your own sound and even to find a preset. The former should be a chore, but the latter is a bit of a disappointment. It needs more settings available from the downloads, maybe even setting downloadable from a community blog. There may be one, but I don't know about it. I've been cheating and I've been going to Boss's website to look up other effect settings, though a lot of the effect settings there are similar to the ones in the software.
Bottom line is that it's worth the $100. If you can drag a computer to your gig and don't change effects much, this will do an admirable job. It's an interesting an fun tool if not a little limited.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Line 6 Guitar Port XT USB Guitar Interface

The Line 6 GuitarPort XT is a powerful tool for guitarists seeking a no-hassle way to learn, play and record music. GuitarPort XT delivers 18 classic and modern guitar amp models, 24 cab models, and 28 must-have studio and stompbox effects. Plus, included tools such as a chromatic tuner, hum reducer, metronome, and riff looper with half-speed playback ensure a great musical experience. Line 6 has taken the studio standard digital modeling they perfected with POD XT, and their expertise in guitar-friendly user interfaces, and combined them into a computer-based product anyone can use and afford. New amp models based on*: Marshall® 1974X (18W Reissue) Orange® AD30TC New effects models based on*: Sans Amp Bass Driver Maestro® Bass Brassmaster Arbiter® Cry Baby Sub Octaves (synth effect) GuitarPort is the total guitar experience from Line 6. GuitarPort gives you everything you need at your fingertips to get the most out of your guitar, from jamming along to your favorite songs to building your soloing skills, or just playing for fun. 16 amp and cabinet models based on POD® XT 19 must-have Stompbox and Studio effects Effects can be routed Pre- or Post- Amp MP3, WAV and Audio CD playback Looping and real-time half-speed without changing pitch 24-bit converters & 32-bit processing Line level and headphone outputs Ideal guitar front end for other recording software Metronome for practicing Built-in chromatic tuner Includes preset tone library Just connect the shiny red GuitarPort hardware to your Windows PC with the included USB cable and connect GuitarPort's stereo output to multimedia speakers, headphones or your stereo. Then fire up the GuitarPort software, plug in your guitar and you're ready to jam! GuitarPort Online Each week thousands of guitarists connect to GuitarPo

Buy NowGet 29% OFF

Click here for more information about Line 6 Guitar Port XT USB Guitar Interface

Read More...

9/27/2011

Hofner Icon Series Beatle Bass Guitar - Sunburst Review

Hofner Icon Series Beatle Bass Guitar - Sunburst
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
As a professional musician and university music professor, I have pretty high standards. Of course, I'm primarily a woodwind performer, and although I've fooled around with guitar since high school, this was my first electric bass guitar. Hofner's Icon model has cheaper wood and generally some cheaper parts than their professional level basses, but I love this instrument. The short scale is perfect for moving seamlessly between guitar and bass and makes technically demanding passages easier than on a standard scale bass. I've gotten to the point where I've taken the bass to parties and played a couple of paying gigs with it. The intonation is pretty good, although it is not up to the level of professional instruments. The main issue is that 1st fret notes are very sharp. The movable bridge is a little tricky to work with, too. I found that I just had to find a spot where there was a fairly decent blend of string height, string angle, and scale for the intonation. Generally, the switches and pickups seem to work pretty well, although the switches get just a little flaky when the temperature and humidity conditions change rapidly. I find that the strings that come with it work ok, but that flat wound strings really improve it, making it useful for rock and jazz playing. I did have to do some minor work on the frets, since two of them were set a little lower than the rest, but just a little adjustment eliminated fret buzz. It's no pre-CBS Fender, to be sure, but for less than $400, it looks good, sounds good, and is lightweight and easy to play.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Hofner Icon Series Beatle Bass Guitar - Sunburst

With authentic details inspired by the original, the Hofner Icon Series Vintage Bass makes the legendary violin bass available to the rest of us. Don't get the idea that this a just a 'nowhere man' look-alike. This quality instrument features a real spruce top and beautiful flamed maple back and sides. The semi-hollow body and set neck will give you the warm, round tone you expect from the violin bass. Rosewood fretboard, sunburst finish.

Buy NowGet 26% OFF

Click here for more information about Hofner Icon Series Beatle Bass Guitar - Sunburst

Read More...

9/26/2011

Gallien-Krueger Backline 600 Bass Amplifier (300 Watt, 2 Channel) Review

Gallien-Krueger Backline 600 Bass Amplifier (300 Watt, 2 Channel)
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I have had my Backline 600 for a about 4 years now and everything about it is superb, especially considering the price.
After some research, I found that unlike the other Backline series amplifiers the had a true professional GK Preamp. More specifically it is either the same or modeled after the famous 800rb that became a standard for big acts in the 80's and continues to be one of the most popular stage amps.
300 Watts is more than enough to power most rigs. Most 1x15 and 4x10 cabs are rated around 200 watts and full rigs like a 2x10 paired with a 1x15 blare at 4ohm.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Gallien-Krueger Backline 600 Bass Amplifier (300 Watt, 2 Channel)

Affordability, power, and diverse features place the Gallien-Krueger Backline 600 head in the forefront of the product line. Featuring 300W of power, distortion/sustain & clean channels, full 4-band active EQ and adjustable contour, the Backline 600 packs quite a punch for the price!

Buy NowGet 30% OFF

Click here for more information about Gallien-Krueger Backline 600 Bass Amplifier (300 Watt, 2 Channel)

Read More...

9/23/2011

Tascam CD-BT2 CD Bass Trainer Review

Tascam CD-BT2 CD Bass Trainer
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I've been playing guitar and bass for almost 50 years. This product is just plain an excellent tool for figuring out bass parts and practicing bass. I recently had to learn the bass parts for a 40 minute set. The Tascam CD-BT2 made it so much easier. In my earlier days we had to learn the parts off the vinyl---which is not easy. I've seen reviews of this product which are so petty and uninformed I can't believe it. The fidelity of the unit when the song is slowed down is not as good as normal speed--but it's quite adequate and excellent for catching fast or tricky runs. The unit is also very easy to use. I've barely had to use the manual. I would advise that you purchase the power adaptor. Alkaline batteries last only about 5 hours.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Tascam CD-BT2 CD Bass Trainer

The Tascam CDBT2 is the latest introduction in the portable CD trainer line-a product category literally invented by Tascam.Like the wildly-popular original CDBT1 bass trainer, musicians have the ability to slow down the speed of a CD without changing the pitch - allowing artists, musicians, students, and music teachers to practice, learn and teach fast licks, rhythm parts and solos from their favorite bass players. With its ultra-compact design and new functionality, the new CDBT2 trainer from Tascam is the most user-friendly trainer ever. The new CDBT2 bass trainer completes our all-new lineup of trainers for the musician, student, teacher and artist on the go.The new CDBT2 bass trainer features an all new improved ultra compact design, comprehensive LCD display with graphical user interface, Album title/Track title indication by CD-Text, expanded effect banks for user preset, chromatic tuner, and Tascam's pioneering VSA (Variable Speed Audition, pitch control without affecting key) feature lets music fans learn up a continuous mix of their favorite songs anywhere they go.With Tascam's legendary ease of use, pioneering features such as integrated pitch and key control, bass canceller with selectable canceling pan point and selectable frequency range, and seamless integration with CD-DA/CD-R/CD-RW disc playback. Users can now discover the licks their favorite artist really played.

Buy NowGet 46% OFF

Click here for more information about Tascam CD-BT2 CD Bass Trainer

Read More...

9/03/2011

Gallien-Krueger MB115 Ultralight Bass Guitar Combo (200 Wat) Review

Gallien-Krueger MB115 Ultralight Bass Guitar Combo (200 Wat)
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
With a jack to plug in my MP3 player, this amp is perfect for me to practice by playing along. This is not your wimpy fifteen watt amp, and being able to switch off the tweeter helps me concentrate on the bass line. There is no lack of punch in the 15 inch main driver. Everyone in the house can hear it, and I haven't turned it all the way up yet! Good 4-band equalizer, and inputs for active and passive pickups (plus XLR out) make for a very flexible setup. I couldn't find anything comparable at this price. I am very happy with this amp!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Gallien-Krueger MB115 Ultralight Bass Guitar Combo (200 Wat)

200 watt bass combo with 1x15" Paragon driver.

Buy NowGet 30% OFF

Click here for more information about Gallien-Krueger MB115 Ultralight Bass Guitar Combo (200 Wat)

Read More...

9/01/2011

Gallien-Krueger Neo 112-II Bass Guitar Cabinet (300 Watt) Review

Gallien-Krueger Neo 112-II Bass Guitar Cabinet (300 Watt)
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Have been a fan of GK products for years. Paired this with the 700RB/210 Combo for a more dynamic sound and am amazed at the difference. Great power and dynamic range. As always, GK delivers excellent workmanship and sound quality at a fair price. Light as a feather compared to the old time stuff. Wouldn't use anything but GK products.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Gallien-Krueger Neo 112-II Bass Guitar Cabinet (300 Watt)

300 watt, 8 ohm bass cabinet with 1x12" Paragon Cast frame neodymium speaker and horn.

Buy NowGet 30% OFF

Click here for more information about Gallien-Krueger Neo 112-II Bass Guitar Cabinet (300 Watt)

Read More...