Randall RM100 opinions

[wilkinsi]

I can't get on the official Randall forum, as it asks for a hidden promotion code . Anyhoo, I'm considering a serious amp head and cab such as the RM100. I only need a 1x12" cab with Celestion speaker. Now, I've already tried an RT50 combo. On its own, the RT50C sounded naff, but made my Boss GT-10 sound great.

The RM100 head appeals to me in that I can add preamp modules later. My initial questions would be:
1) Can I use the RM100 and a cab without any of those modules fitted (I understand it doesn't come with any)? In other words, does the MASTER volume still work without any modules fitted?
2) Does anybody here know how the parallel loop works? I wasn't sure if the signal passes through both loops or through the modules, etc.

Thanks in advance.

[lhrocker]

Yes - if you have no modules, you can use the amp as a power amp. Just connect your input to the serial input. As for the second question, I think the parallel comes before the serial in the signal chain.

[VitaminG]

many dealers will sell a loaded head. The pricing will be adjusted accordingly, but if you're looking to buy new, it can be a cheaper way to get your first 3 modules.

[chrisolson]

I can't answer your questions, but will say that these amps are great! They are also one of the heaviest heads I've ever encountered. The transformers are MASSIVE. Buy used - they can be had cheap. If not, be prepared to take a re-sale beating.

[warlok]

You pretty much got your answers but I wanted to agree, they are great. I'm about a grand total into mine and it's been worth every penny. Have a KH1, 1086, and a Jaded Faith modded Ultra. The possibilities are endless. But it can become a money pit if you let it.. Used and trading is the best way to go. There's a bunch of EU users/sellers on the MTS forum. Gotta watch for who to buy from (like anywhere) but some good guys and tons of info there..

[Nightbat]

The securtiy code to get registered is in bold in the description of the MTS Forum News & Annoucements forum

[wilkinsi]

The securtiy code to get registered is in bold in the description of the MTS Forum News & Annoucements forum

Thanks

[wilkinsi]

I'm confused. Click all 3 images on this link.

http://www.gak.co.uk/en/randall-rm-100m-head-black/16895

Despite being identical, with the exception of the top-front panel, why is one £250 more than the other two?

[VitaminG]

I believe the palaminos were not as popular with young metalheads buying these amps - all the kids love the metal grill version - so they may be older stock the store is trying to shift. You could call the store & ask.

I actually think the creme palamino is pretty sweet. In the end, it's how it sounds not how it looks and you can always use that £250 in your pocket for other things. But if you want to install LEDs to make your head glow with your bedroom lights off, you're gonna need the metal grill version

[jgcable]

Best amp I have ever owned and I have owned almost all of them!

[wilkinsi]

I believe the palaminos were not as popular with young metalheads buying these amps - all the kids love the metal grill version - so they may be older stock the store is trying to shift. You could call the store & ask.

I actually think the creme palamino is pretty sweet. In the end, it's how it sounds not how it looks and you can always use that £250 in your pocket for other things. But if you want to install LEDs to make your head glow with your bedroom lights off, you're gonna need the metal grill version

I was wondering why its £250 just for a metal grill

[DonP]

Best amp I have ever owned and I have owned almost all of them!

Why? (elaborate please).

I have a DSL100 1/2 stack and it's served me very well. But a local GC had one of these RM100's used and the build quality looks very good. I like individual bias on each power tube, beefy trannies, etc. I did not get a chance to try it out, however.

I saw that the Lynch box uses EL34s. I'd sort of be more inclined to go for that since I'm a big Marshall fan, but maybe the regular sounds better.

I know you've played and liked the DSL100, so I'm curious about how you'd judge both.

Just looking outright, I like the flexibility of the RM100, I'd be inclined to make my own modules, but on the other hand I'm very happy with the Marshall, it gives me all the tones I love except for a good hard rock tone (AC/DC. Tesla, Def Leppard), when I switch to the "thicker for that tone" Laney. I don't really want to mod the DSL because I like the tones it does right now and wouldn't want to mess those tones up.

[VitaminG]

don't need the Lynch Box to use EL34s. Just pop EL34s into the regular RM100 and bias to suit.

[DonP]

Is this a good deal?

http://dayton.craigslist.org/msg/2331827114.html

[VitaminG]

that seems pretty good to me, with 4 modules. On the MTS forum you'll find folks letting the heads go for $550-700. Factor in $150 per module, and that deal isn't too bad at all. IMHO anyway