cheap amplification options?

harlemjoys

HCQ wrote:

I have been following this thread and similar ones. I tried the AC60 with my axe fitted with a K&K pickup. I was interested in it as Roland is promoting it with a $50 dollar mail in rebate. I play out very rarely so I wasn't really looking for or expecting audiophile type stuff that would fit within my budget parameters.

Though much better than the really lower end acoustic guitar amps, the Roland has a couple of problems. It really compresses the high end. Additionally, if you run the amp at its louder volume setting, I found I was getting a bunch of digital artifacts even with the effects section turned off.

The amp I settled on is the Fishman Loudbox. Lots of well executed features. The best being that its bi-amped, 90 watts to its 8" woofer and 10 watts to its 1" tweeter. On the back of the there's a mix knob to blend the tweeter with the woofer. 2 channels each with anti-feedback and phase controls, a mute switch that could also be foot switch activated. Channel 2 has 2 phantom powered inputs at either 24v XLR or 15v 1/4". There are other well thought out features as well. Plate and hall reverbs that sound good enough and aren't over baked.

Lastly and more importantly, it sounds very decent with my petite bouche without any extra stuff. Right now I use with a simple a/b box so I switch channels for different volume levels for lead and rhythm.

Its quite small and weighs at a bit less than 25 pounds.

I got mine a bit cheaper, but I think most retail shops sell it at roughly $600.I mention this since I am not really a gear freak, but for the extra money, it outclasses the Roland. Fishman's website has additional information if you are interested.

Thanks for all the archived information here. It really helps.

Which K&K pickup are you using? Also which Fischman Loudbox are you using, the 100 or the performer? Thanks.

HCQ

Hi Alex,

I am using the Loudbox 100.

I am using the K&K Pure Floating Bridge Pickup. I am really happy with it as its much better than I thought it would be. It will raise your guitar's action about a millimeter or so.

It cost $104 shipped direct from K&K. If you wish, you can call them toll free and talk to Dieter, their pickup designer for pros and cons of various pickups.

BTW, I live just a few miles from NYC, so let me know when you are playing out!