After years of using a HRD with pedal board for a function band I have now changed direction and have joined a rock covers band. The HRD was perfect as pedal platform for multiple genres, and it always gave me enough volume and headroom if we were in a larger venue. But now I'm in a rock covers band I'd like to explore a simpler and rockier sound. We cover the likes of guns n roses, Queen, the cult, Free etc.
So what are the best options gigging amp options for this style of music?
I want to ensure it's loud enough for slightly larger venues un mic'd, and something that will get louder when I stomp on a boost pedal rather than just gainier/mushier. So I'm guessing 40 Watts is probably the sweet spot, same as the HRD. I was looking at the Marshall Studio series but at 20 Watts I just don't thinks it's going to be powerful enough and unfortunately the other decent Marshalls are 100watts, which will be too loud. So I guess the is Friedman, like the DS or SB50. But I'm yet to try any. I've always been a Fender amp style person but want something with a rockier tone and to use less pedals. I'd be really interested to know people's thoughts and recommendations for amps. I'd really want a head and cab for a change from combos. I play a Les Paul or Tele with Chopper T.
Comments
As for "when am I ready?" You'll never be ready. It works in reverse, you become ready by doing it. - pmbomb
One thing, hitting a boost pedal into the front of a gain amp will always add more gain and not volume. A boost in the effects loop will add volume. So if you want a boost either you need an effects loop or a multichannel / multi volume knob amp.
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Edit: just read the bit about wattage. I had the amp just below halfway on the master in 20W mode round my mate’s soundproof man cave, and that certainly seemed to be loud enough for a pub gig for instance, though I haven’t actually gigged it yet.
My budget could stretch for the right amp. I agree with trying the amps before buying but it's difficult to find a shop that has them in stock. Most shops only stock one or two of these so it's tough to compare.
Have you gigged it yet?
SC is great but once it’s up at volume there isn’t really anywhere to go for a lead boost.
The unpopular big Blackstar pedals like the HT Dual or HT Overdrive can turn an HRD into a Marshall reasonably convincingly ... although they cost hundreds new you can pick them up for £50 ish