looking for a valve power amp

[paulmapp8306]

As it says.

Preferably a VHT (or Fryette) 2:50:2. then VHT 2:90:2, then Messa 2:90 Simulclass.

Anything else consdidered. Must be between 50 and 100W per side though - no 20/20s.

[fastboy]

I haven't got one but what about one of the EL34 50/50 or 100 watters by Marshall. They are pretty cheap to pickup but the only downside is they weigh a tonne...

[paulmapp8306]

Possible. There not as heavey as either the VHT 2:50:2 or Messe 2:90. They are 3U though which is a bit big. there also a lot noisier (well the fan is) and nowhere near the quality of build or tone as the VHT or Messa.

Well tone is personal - but the Marshall power amps still impart a typical Marshall tone. The Messa much less so (a Messa nor Marshall tone obvciously!) - The VHT is very neutral - that is you get out wht you put in - thats the most important feature in a Valve Power amp as far as im concerned.

Having said that, the EL34 50/50 is only £699 new (from GAK or DV247) as opposed to £1250 for the VHT and more for the 2:90, so one of those - or the older 9100 - are possible if the used price is right. I would still look for the VHT or Messa - but would probably get my money back on the Marshall. As there more readily available, using one as a stop gap is a possibility. I have tried a 9100 local, but the seller wanted £500 as he said they were £1000 new - WAY too much given that while Thomann and others sell the equivilant 50/50 for nearly a grand - both DV247 and GAK are doing them at £699.

[dilbert]

As it says.

Preferably a VHT (or Fryette) 2:50:2. then VHT 2:90:2, then Messa 2:90 Simulclass.

Anything else consdidered. Must be between 50 and 100W per side though - no 20/20s.

Paul,

genuine question: why no 20/20 ?

dilbert.

[paulmapp8306]

2 reasons.

1. The 20/20s are EL84 powered (both the Messa and Marshall modela) and are a little harsher than EL34 or KT88 based amps.

2. Not enough headroom. I want clean power. I dont want amy power amp distortion or crunch. I get all that from my Pre. I have beem using a SS Power amp and its good - BUT a Valve amp just adds some body and sparkle. If I used a 20/20 I wouldnt get the volume without driving the valves too hard.

[dilbert]

Ah I see, thanks for the info, Paul.

dilbert.

[Seshboy]

Hi Paul.

I've got a Marshall 9200 (EL34 100/100) for sale if you might be interested?

It's recently been revalved and'll give you plenty of clean headroom, I'll even chuck in the 4U rack case it's in. I've been looking to get rid of it for a a while some I'm open to reasonable offers but I'll give you a good deal. Give me a shout if you're interested.

Cheers,

Sesh

[paulmapp8306]

pmd

[manicguitarist2]

. If I used a 20/20 I wouldnt get the volume without driving the valves too hard.

You'd be suprised at how loud they are.
I used to have one, and it was *very* loud - but then I did run it through 4 4x12s....

[Seshboy]

Can't see your pm mate. Got to go to work in a minute anyway, could u email me on
inbox@bencastle.co.uk?

Sesh