Musicman20

I think one of the main features is going to be the low pass filter. Those craving even more sparkle and more bright high end will now be able to get it. Im guessing they used a similar type of technique to get the Staccato 51 flat settings.

Hi guys. I'm VERY excited to be announcing this. Uffe Hansen at TC Electronic has invited 5 TalkBass users to particpate in a test group for the RH450 and an internal beta version of a PC application that allows the user to access internal settings on the Preamp. The connection between the RH450 to the PC is facilitated by a special USB-to-Midi cable that connects to the "Remote" port on the back panel of the RH450. The users who were invited are: KJung Vic Tom7 Musicman20 (me!) Eublet None of us are endorsers, but we have been very enthusiastic about the RH450 for a while now, and have rambled on at length in many threads here about these heads, the potential they provide, and how we would like to be able to adjust this or that under the hood. Uffe and TC have noticed this so they're going to let us give it a go. We have freedom to post our discussions here, and hopefully to get ideas for things to try from others. So please participate in the discussion with us. We can not however share the Tweaker PC application with anyone so please don't ask! I want to give a very special thanks to Uffe and TC Electronic for asking us to particpate and provide feedback. This is the kind of thing you want to see from a manufacturer as it shows they care about what their users are interested in. So many here have made suggestions and Uffe has noticed them. So here we go! HERE is a link the the Talkbass thread where the discussions are going to take place: [url="http://www.talkbass.com/forum/showthread.php?t=652395"]http://www.talkbass.com/forum/showthread.php?t=652395[/url] Below is a partial cut and paste from an email Uffe sent us which explains a few things about what we're doing. [quote]Originally Posted by [b]Uffe Hansen[/b] via [b]email[/b] to test group [u][b]The Gear[/b][/u] As mentioned in my earlier mail, I will send you a test amp and the equipment to hook up the Amp Tweak software. I will send more specific instructions for the amp tweaker shortly, but overall it is a pretty simple Control software hooked up to the RH450 via a USB-MIDI interface and a special MIDI split cable connected to the ‘remote’ connector on RH450. [u][b]The Tweaker[/b][/u] The Tweaker is a subset of a development tool that we’ve been using internally since the initial RH450 prototypes passed audio. We’ve cleaned it up a bit to not make it overly complicated. This first version allows you access to: Full parametric Tone control section (Bandwidth, Gain, Freq, all four bands) Overall Lowpass filter – Internally known as TweeterTone and much discussed on TB Full access to the three band SpectraComp parameters – Thrs, Attack, Release etc. for all three bands (yes it’s a lot ;- Storing/recalling of tweaked settings on your computer – which also means easy exchange of settings between you guys And finally change of selected parameter defaults on the amp [u][b]The test aim[/b][/u] My intention with this test is to start an open discussion on what makes sense for bass players both from a sound and tone perspective, but also in potentially opening the Amp Tweaker up to more players out there. We don’t have a specific target in terms of product release, end date or features that we need to reach, but hey maybe we will find some underway! In other words; we simply wanted to gain some input for new angles and ideas for bass players at the front end of the development process rather than lurking at forums and making all decisions ourselves. This of course also means that I cannot promise the outcome of the test, so no guarantees on where this will end up. That said, I am personally VERY excited about this and convinced that we will find some cool new stuff that we can get out there. [u][b]Confidentiality[/b][/u] – The Amp Tweaker is basically an internal tool and not a product for re-sale. Our test is fully official and you are free to discuss this with anybody out there.[/quote]

[quote name='farmer61' post='822017' date='Apr 28 2010, 03:11 PM']TBH didn't try the MB for long tbh, just didn't seem right, am going back when I have more time to line 'em up and compare better. Got some good overdriven tones out of the MB, but didn't feel that the clarity was there on any of the settings I used, but again it was only a quick tryout. The GB seemed easier to get the tone / variety of tone that I need.[/quote] Ah, it seems from your test the Genz might be for you They are super crisp and clear.

Personally, the Shuttle 6.0 lacks it for me, and so did the 9.0. Thats just me though. Some players love the totally crisp Genz sound. It seemed less full than I was used to in the low end. I prefer the more warm full tone of the Mark Bass amps....how was the 'distortion' on the LM Rocker?

[quote name='cameltoe' post='821191' date='Apr 27 2010, 09:12 PM']Very nice black/brown vintageness there.....! Who are Mono anyway? sounds like a bargain.[/quote] I didnt know they existed until I looked for a proper lightweight but strong case, (one of the new hybrid types). All I can say is the gig bag/case is incredibly well made and very high attention to detail. Super useful, and light/strong. Expensive, but worth it. [quote name='discreet' post='821200' date='Apr 27 2010, 09:17 PM']Thanks! Like Musicman20 says, they make amazing gig bags (and straps). I'm GAS-ing for the M80: [url="http://www.monocase.com/mono-bass-guitar.asp"]http://www.monocase.com/mono-bass-guitar.asp[/url][/quote] Yep those are the Mono products. The strap even has a pick holder! How cool is that?! Im waiting for the stock to come in then Im ordering one.

I think Im off for a Mono one....£29.95 from Strings Direct (incl postage). Their cases are amazing, and the strap has, from the description, no plastic. I imagine it will be really good. Just waiting for stock.

One of the nicest Sadowsky's Ive seen! Congrats. Im with you...if I ever found a Sadowsky that was right for me, I wouldnt shell out the now daft UK prices on the Metros. Id wait and seek a NYC.

Nice! How are you liking the RS212?

I am also a worrier with basses. Two fine examples are the two stingrays I just sold to get two more stingrays, (albeit more varied models). They were ding free...but I should have used them more. If you have your own transport and the pub isn't too tightly packed, take a nice bass and don't drink! Stands are the best idea, or straight into a quality case. My problem now is I don't have a backup or workhorse. One of my Ps was going to take that place, but they are both too lovely to be heavily gigged, IMO. That's why I'm getting a Squier CV Jazz or Precision asap.

[quote name='tayste_2000' post='820480' date='Apr 27 2010, 11:55 AM']Or [url="http://basschat.co.uk/index.php?showtopic=85290&st=0"]http://basschat.co.uk/index.php?showtopic=85290&st=0[/url] [/quote] +1...solid rock n roll

[quote name='mrhectic' post='819417' date='Apr 26 2010, 02:24 PM']ah cool! cheers for the advice andy! I think a mesa is looking more likely. I read somewhere that the orange obc has a horn which you can't adjust.[/quote] It was an odd decision by Orange to di this, but the horn is nice and subtle on the cab, and doesn't sound too 'bright' like I found even the Bergs can. You need to give them all a good try. You'll find the Orange prices are much more reasonable due to various factors, one being it's a UK company so no messing about paying a ridiculous amount over what they do in the USA. What tone/size/weight are you after? If you are looking for a quality rock n roll 4x10, Mess and Orange are good places to look.

+1, DI box. Either just a full on DI or a DI combination pedal like Sansamp.

I had two 3 band EQ Rays which I only sold to get a Classic and SR5 on order. I dont think I ever noted a weak G string....weirdly. The main reason I went for Rays is that I think their electronics and tone are up there with some of the best anyway, so I doubt Id ever switch anything on it. I know EB are really picky with their guarantees if you change small bits on the bass. Maybe Ive been lucky?! I agree the E sounds massive on Rays....and sometimes it feels the bottom two strings dont 'push' as much as the E and A, but thats the same for every Jazz bass Ive tried. Its part of their tone and original design I guess....Im guessing its a technical issue to do with frequencies.

Cool! Its a damn nice combo esp for the price. Id like to see pics when you get it!

[quote name='throwoff' post='818877' date='Apr 26 2010, 08:48 AM']Wierdly enough I ALWAYS wanted and Orange but I seem to have forgotten they exist up until this very moment! I'm so tempted by so many things![/quote] Righty....I will fully recommend the Orange stack. Yes, Im biased, but if you are going for a full rock n roll rig, do it in style. Orange is the way to go. Heavy as hell, tone for days. Rock n roll.

Three choices with that criteria: LM3 plus VT F1 plus VT RH450 plus nowt

[quote name='GRAHAM SG1' post='814585' date='Apr 22 2010, 07:57 AM']I think I am sold on the GK MB210 with the possibility of adding an extension at a later date, a 4x10 mini `tower`sounds just right, I also like the weight of these amps, find it hard to believe its in pounds and not kgs, thats half the weight of my Marshall so my back will like it . I have just one reservation though, I read that GK amps are made in China, in my experience stuff made in China is poor quality so are these amps good quality ?? Thanks[/quote] I think a fair few big manufacturers have their production elsewhere now, including Ampeg! The best bet would be to make sure it's got a warranty no matter what you get. It's a shame you can't test them out. There are a lot of reviews of the GK MB combos on talkbass.com. I'm not actually even sure where that Marshall is made if I'm honest. Good luck

[quote name='tom1946' post='814103' date='Apr 21 2010, 07:12 PM']Do you like soundslive Musicman20? Was thinking of having a run up from near Teesside to try out the Steve Harris. Is the shop worth the trip?[/quote] If theyve got it in, its worth a visit to try it out. I dont know how they operate but Id just be sure to know their internet prices and do a bit of haggling. They have a lot of nice Markbass gear in at the moment, and a fair few Fenders. Nice chaps....just make sure you have a price in mind. Guitarguitar are nearby, and they have some different gear in like Laklands etc, Aguilar, TC....but I find them very expensive. With most stores, its just a case of friendly haggling.

[quote name='GRAHAM SG1' post='814084' date='Apr 21 2010, 06:54 PM']Re the KG combo amps you guys mention; •350W @ 8 ohms/500W @ 4 ohms (with extension) They all say the above so the question is, is it worth paying the extra for what is essentially a 350 Watt amp without extension cab, would the extra £200 cost over my Marshall would be justified by better quality and better loudness ?? The KG MB210 looks like a goer as its available now, I would like the 2x12 but if its not out yet . I must say I appreciate you knowledge and experience guys, I am a bass newbie ![/quote] No probs! Thats what we are here for...plus soon you will probably build up a vast wealth of knowledge you can bore your guitarist with hahaha. Dont even try with the drummer. The GK MB212 is 4 ohms....even though it says 8 ohms on that USA site. Its the FULL 500W into that 2x12 enclosure. The GK MB210 allows an extension but it wont put out full power without it. If you go for the 210, its smaller/lighter, and you have the option of adding an MBE210 cabinet when they come out, (if they arent out already). That will give you a 4x10 tower with 500W and will be super super loud. It will be more expensive that the MB 212 combo thats due to come out, but you will have the options of just the 2x10 combo, or adding the extension cabinet. The amp inside that combo is apparently very very loud, and has a hell of a lot of low end. It also can be quite 'bright' as well, if you want it to be.....to cut through a little. Obviously EQ can be used. The GK site is not updated yet but their catalogue is here: [url="http://www.gallien.com/news_brochures.html"]http://www.gallien.com/news_brochures.html[/url] It wont sound exactly like the Marshall, but it might actually be better as GK just makes bass amps/cabs. I reckon the price difference is worth it. If you go any higher, we are talking Markbass....very very good gear but not cheap. Personally, id ask if they can order you a GK MB212, unless you want a 2x10 x 2 setup and then you can go for what they have and add to it. But...its upto you I think the MB Combos are very well priced and probably the lightest ones out there at the moment.

Problem is, some of the shops ive been in round here have a lot of stock, and some of its quite old.... I tested 4 or so basses the past week, and all of them throughout two stores had BAD dings, one of them had part of the nut missing off! (A Stingray 5). I dont really like buying shop stock unless its fairly new in. Im just a picky sod. The Squier I tested was £40 over the prices on the net and a massive ding on the underside. I tend to use one store for everything now, and they are nowhere near me hahah. They also understand im a picky sod. The only exception is strings and Orange stuff...purely as they dont deal with Orange.