Crate V3112 (Class A) Tube Combo

[two4motion]

As much as I would like to be able to afford a Top Hat, Dr. Z, or other boutique amp, I just don't think it's in the cards right now.

I'm wondering if anyone has had any experience with Crate's V3112 or the V30H head with some particular cabinet combination.

Basically, I'm looking for something all tube(aren't we all), that's around 30W & sounds pretty good all around (at least for something under $700). One other thing I really like about this amp is that it has an effects loop, which some of the boutique amps don't. Also, unlike some other major amp manufacturers, it's still made in the USA, which is something that I try to stick to when I can. Call me goofy, but I really wonder under what kind of conditions the people in Vietnam who made my VOX AD30VT were working under. Maybe it's just me though.

I read a thread on Harmony Central that had nothing but good things to say about it.

Anyone have any experience with one of these? Any alternatives? I've read recommendations for Traynor amps as good bang for the buck option. Haven't heard any though.

Other suggest the Peavey Classic 30. Some note the main difference between this and the Crate is that the Peavey doesn't have Class A circuitry, or a Standby (I'm not sure that's a big deal for me).

Any thoughts, advice?

[dagosto]

I just played a new Peavey all tube amp called the Windsor at Namm today. It had a power soak and a mic simulated recording output. 12-Watts I believe. I was very impressed with this amp and it would blow thye hell out of either of those other amps for recording. Unfortunately I wasn't able to get much pricing info and it could be a while before this one is available.

[two4motion]

Originally Posted by dagosto

I just played a new Peavey all tube amp called the Windsor at Namm today. It had a power soak and a mic simulated recording output. 12-Watts I believe. I was very impressed with this amp and it would blow thye hell out of either of those other amps for recording. Unfortunately I wasn't able to get much pricing info and it could be a while before this one is available.

Thanks Dan, I'm glad you got to check that out. That's the one amp out of all the NAMM coverage that really has me interested. According to the news release on Peavey's site, the MSRP is $499! I hope it works in a live setting as well as recording. The specs on it are impressive.

Thanks again for passing that along.

- Dan

[dagosto]

In my opinion that is an incredibly fair price for the amp. I guess that is what Peavey does. And by that I mean they suprise in the best ways.

[two4motion]

I just watched the video of you playing it, looks like an impressive piece of equipment. Thanks for bringing the video to us. I hope you guys get a chance to review one of those for crosstalk or gearwire labs.

- Dan.