Peavey XXX. What should I look for?

[warlok]

Well, Taxes were better than I thought so I'm gonna try and grab a XXX. Anyone know what I should be looking for? Differences in years? Any difference between ones with old or new logo? Anything problematic I should check for?

[DonP]

Are you sure this is the correct amp for you? Sounds like you should do more research and testing.

It's just that there are so many great amps out there, I wouldn't rush out before trying everything.

Just saying...

[lhrocker]

The earlier models had an issue with EL34's, even though there was a switch for it on the back. This was fixed later on. I had 6L6's in mine when I had one - no issues and it sounded really good.

[Spivonious]

XXX = buzz city IMO. Just be sure you know what you're getting.

[DonP]

Pete is an amp whore who's test drove a lot.

What's the latest and greatest? The Randall RM100? JVM410H?

[lhrocker]

Pete is an amp whore who's test drove a lot.

What's the latest and greatest? The Randall RM100? JVM410H?

I have both of them - actually, I just got my old RM100 back. I think it must be a good amp as I've come back to it 5 times. My Bogner XTC and Roadster are my newest, and I think I'm done for now, except....



I still wanna get my hands on a VHT. Played an Ultra Lead and CLX in the studio, but nothing beats trying them out in your own space.

[warlok]

Well, buzz city is not what I'm looking for. But for my $600 range, what else is better around there? I'm looking for something more versatile. The RM100 would be perfect but there's no way I'm able to afford one. Or a VHT, JVM, etc.. I haven't had a chance to mess with a XXX that much, and only at very low volume and thought it was pretty versatile. I have recently read that some people say it's buzzy on the ultra channel with the volume and gain higher. Had a decent clean that seem like it might sound good with a chorus and maybe some more eq-ing. I'd like something that will have a pretty wide range, as in does more than just nailing 80's Metallica. Whether anyone likes it or not, my blue doodoo does that just fine, but not much else.
I do so much love the fact that nowadays tube amps are apparently worth their weight in titanium. It's pretty fucking impossible to get something versatile for a decent price.

[Larz]

Some of that new Jet City stuff is in that range, but I've never heard it outside of youtube. I doubt Soldano would attach his name to a complete box of crap though.

One of the Peavey 6505+ tube combos is at your budget too. I've played through one at GC and it seemed solid for the money.

[warlok]

That was also on the list. My brother in law has a 5150 combo and I love it except I want a separate EQ for both channels. What's the difference between the 5150II and the 6505+?

[Larz]

I'm not a Peavey expert, so someone will correct me if I'm wrong, but I don't believe there is a difference between the 5150 II and the 6505+. Wasn't it just renamed after Eddie VH left Peavey and took the 5150 name with him?

[shreddermon]

Although great high-gain machines, IMHO the 6505 / 5150s are not particularly "versatile" amps. At least, not in how I would consider that term.

You should be able to get a nice used JSX head for a little bit above your $600 range. I'd suggest saving a little more $$$, and trying one out. I love mine - IMHO, all 3 channels are very strong. However, the speakers in the JSX cabs & combos really blow, though. Match it with something having Celestion V30s, and the JSX really comes to life.

[warlok]

I haven't seen a JSX go for less than $850 at the very lowest. Here's my problem. Seems that alot tube amps are sold when it's due for a re-tube. Or just with personal preference, may want to change the tubes that are in it. So I'd like to keep it around $600 and have some extra cash for tubes or tweaks as necessary. I still want to get a MXR EQ too as IMHO every amp I play needs an eq. So $600 is really as high as I want to go (also keeping the bills in mind...).

Yes, I want it all, and want it now!!

[shreddermon]

I haven't seen a JSX go for less than $850 at the very lowest.

:think: I just checked completed auctions on Ebay - JSX heads sold from a low of $600 to a high of $785. Meh. Good luck, whatever you do.

[Racerx2k]

I'd look into the Jet City amp, like someone suggested. Played a JCA20H at the local GC and really dug it. they now have a 100 watt, dual channel and a 50 watter is o the way.

[Spivonious]

First of all, I'd save up a little more and get a head/cab setup instead of a combo. Just get a 2x12 with some good speakers; it doesn't have to be a big name brand.

For a versatile tube amp, you're going to spend $1500+. I'd pick the one sound that you absolutely need and get an amp that fits it. Otherwise you'll never be happy in your price range. For metal I'd go 5150/6505 or maybe B-52 AT100. If you're not going to be playing in a band, keep the wattages low. 100W is total overkill unless you're after a super clean sound.