I play metal; should I get a Crate or a Randall half stack amp?!
Question: I want to get a new guitar amp, one that I can play metal on and is loud enough to be heard over drums. Right now I'm trying to decide (when I have the money) on whether I should get the Crate FlexWave FW120HS or the Randall RX120RHS, the Crate has 3 channels (along with a foot switch) while Randall has just 2, but Randall amplifiers are known for their tube sound (or tube like sound) which is something I want. They both cost the same, but which one is the better deal?
Answers: I want to get a new guitar amp, one that I can play metal on and is loud enough to be heard over drums. Right now I'm trying to decide (when I have the money) on whether I should get the Crate FlexWave FW120HS or the Randall RX120RHS, the Crate has 3 channels (along with a foot switch) while Randall has just 2, but Randall amplifiers are known for their tube sound (or tube like sound) which is something I want. They both cost the same, but which one is the better deal?
If I had to choose between the two I would opt for the Randall... if it has the modular system. The modular system is actually pretty sweet - the preamps are interchangeable, meaning that you can buy preamp modules from Randall, swap them into your amp, and have a whole new amp sound. It's kinda like digital modelling, except it's all done with real tube circuitry. Metallica is going over to Randall for their new album, so there is a precedent.
If you feel like you need a clean, dirty, and solo channel, get an EQ pedal, Boss DS-1, ElectroHarmonix Metal Muff, or ProCo Rat or something and use it as a solo boost.
Non-tube crates have always sounded like industrial grindey buzzy distortion to me. Tube crates are pretty dang good, though.
Saul
Go with a MARSHALL BUDDY!!! Check out Kerry King's signature head if you have the money! You don't need to buy just a Crate or Randall to play metal DUDE!!!