Honest Review: Ampeg 50th Anniversary Heritage SVT

[@MarkEagleton]

Speaking as a veteran bass player, a budding amp tech, and a huge SVT fan, this was pretty much the best amp review I have ever seen. You are a treasure.

[@PsionicAudio]

Wow, thanks Mark. You know, at the end of the day, I used to be a gigging musician in the trenches, so I'm always on the side of the player. I've seen so many piles of junk get "Editors' Pick" awards, seen so many YT videos selling crap disguised as "reviews" etc. So I have to speak out. But now at the end of a working day I need to go work on my right hand position on bass, so future videos will have better playing. ;)

[@MarkEagleton]

@@PsionicAudio Well, you certainly approach the instrument like a bass player. You can always tell the difference between a guitar player who is playing a bass, and a bass player (not that there isn’t room for all styles). As a bass player who repairs guitar amps, I put a lot of effort into understanding how and why certain guitar amps appeal to certain players. I know what I like as a guitar listener, but not being a player, I have to rely on the perspective of real players to really understand less tangible parts. It’s refreshing to see this applied to the bass player’s perspective. SVTs are terrifying, and beautiful machines. I really enjoy your channel, and find your work ethic and attention to detail inspiring.

[@PsionicAudio]

Thanks Mark, that made my day.

[@cohenpeyton3080]

I know I'm quite randomly asking but do anybody know a good place to watch newly released movies online ?

[@cohenpeyton3080]

@Aries Jay Thanks, I signed up and it seems like they got a lot of movies there =) I really appreciate it!!

[@Helios711]

I now only buy amps based on your objective reviews. Please keep them coming. You're a gem and I appreciate your passion.

[@YTPartyTonight]

I love Ampeg amps. I've owned an early '70s B-15 and two SVTs. I just can't handle the bulk anymore.

[@bendavies8744]

Just bought an Ampeg SVT-VR and didnt know about the hum issue. Glad mine is clean.. so far!

[@cimmeriakurt]

Love your work! I want an all tube. Thiughts on Orange ad200? Any recommendations?

[@David-yx3es]

Love how objective and tech based your videos are, super refreshing compared to the rest of KZbin. If you ever get experience with one of fender’s 300w super bassmans a review/ overview of possible issues would be amazing

[@Theweeze100]

What do think of the CL? I have the opportunity to buy one at a bargain…played an SVT in the 70’s & 80’s. And yes, I have had the pleasure of having to re-tube those 6550s… Talk about breaking the bank… Hoping it has the same mojo, but I’m a little concerned about the new design. Would love your opinion?

[@Rondoggy67]

I love this channel. This review had so much that is missing from every other review. Stuff that we really need to see. My only sadness is that you're on the other side of the Atlantic, because I'd want to get you to service and repair my amps.

[@derwinmoss9485]

Excellent and informative video! Thank you for posting it! I’m working on buying a brand new Ampeg SVT and 810E. Are the current run of SVT-CLs less problematic than the current production VR’s and the 50th Anniversary models? Are there any sound and reliability differences between the U.S. assembled Heritage SVT-CL heads and the made in China SVT-CL’s? Thank you!

[@jamesflack8624]

I agree with Mark. You are a Treasure. Thanks for everything, including the fish... 🐠🐟🐡 Cheers 🍻

[@jeffbass4]

Ive often said I must have gotten a good one. Bought my VR new in 2010 and its never failed me, nor have I had to replaced the tubes. And it was made n Vietnam. This amp has traveled around the country more than once and used on hundreds of shows nationally and locally. Standby hum? Almost zero. You have to put your ear right on the speaker grill to hear anything at all. Great amp, great tone. And yes, its worth the weight.

[@TheBolt3366]

I think this amp sounds it's best when paired with the 8X10. I've used it before with a 4X10 Ampeg cab. Although it sounded good, I like the 8x10 better.

[@bflo1000]

If you like low end, 15's are better.

[@brianrichards5815]

What is the best cabinet to use with my 70’s Ampeg svt?

[@anthonyman8008]

@@bflo1000 will it power 8 10s and a 15?

[@bflo1000]

@@anthonyman8008 I'm not sure...But it will do a 4x10 and a 15 or 2. You have to check your ohms on your head and cab. I'm not really a tech guy to be honest.

[@iloverush123]

I checked out the ampeg 212av cab, it's very close to an 810 I think at like a quarter of the weight. It's rated at 600w too so it takes power well.

[@anthonyman8008]

Ordered on through guitar center, supposedly heritage, but looked plain in pic. I am extremely thankful that you shared this info and that I found it!

[@carlosps9612]

It's super weird but the amp in this video look like CGI to me haha like it's an VST picture or something. Amazing review btw! Wish to have the money some day

[@78fenderPbass]

I have a 1970 Ampeg V4B 100 watt tube amp through an Ampeg 8x10. It is the best sounding bass head I've ever heard hands down. Round sound and also very versatile.

[@montag4516]

That's good to know. I'm currently considering looking for a 70's era V4B to purchase. I have an Ampeg SVT-410 cabinet (from the early 90's, only handles 200 watts) to run it through.

[@niramchristian3385]

thank you.. very well explained what is the difference between this new series VR, CL and heritage? I'm looking to buy an SVT, but I don't know which is the best option for me

[@limegreenthecolor]

I have both a 50th anniversary SVT and a SVT CL Heritage. These are both made in the US. I love both of them, and I think you would be happy with either. I think the non-Heritage CL is made overseas. I've never played a non-Heritage CL.

[@rorobishop9661]

Yws tou are right I have played a moderen CL and a vintage cl ( New made in china Vintage made in USA,) The sound very similair some say that they use better components in the USA made ones and they might but I just think the QC is better and there is more Hand work @@limegreenthecolor

[@rorobishop9661]

You would be fine with either but if you want to keep it for a very prolonged time it might make sense to get a Heritage series

[@Dirk1961-l7y]

I had in my band career an Fender Bassman 125 (1976)! I let refurbished it and pit a bias potmeter in it. This amp was ridiculous powerfull hooked at a Eich 410 on 4ohms. This was possible. 19kg but so much fun and good reviews from listeners

[@mysterj1]

I am looking at buying an anniversary SVT. How do you use both channels?

[@ryanpieguy]

you patch cable the top left one with the bottom right and plug in to the bottom left. i'm sure you figured that out by now...just realizing your post was 10 months ago and i just got mine...so i'm still geekin out haha

[@mojoemurphy]

I have the heritage SVT CL already with the 810e and very much want this Heritage 50th anniversary SVT with matching 810. Very spendy, but I'm gonna try

[@thomasbailey9605]

Always love your opinions! Wow....best sound in 40 yrs? That's awesome. A good amplifier!

[@blakevanhouten1672]

Curious as to what your thoughts on the modern V4b are. Seems like that might be a more common amp just due to size and wattage.

[@PsionicAudio]

I haven’t had one in yet.

[@kosmicwizard]

Hi Lyle, thank you for this. I really enjoyed the video, as always! I own a 1988 SVT ll (non-pro) which is the 4U rack mounted version of the first skunkworks SVTs SLM made when they brought production back to the US from Japan in 87. The line that my amp is part of was replaced by the 2 PRO in 92, and I've heard many people prefer the non-pro model to the later PRO and CL lines. I know part of the reason is because this was the first return to the original 1969 preamp design, while using easy to acquire modern preamp tubes (I.E. 12ax7 and 12au7) instead of 12dw7 and so forth as per the original design, but I wonder (besides for scarcity) is the non-pro more desired for the purity and simplicity of its circuit compared to the later models? What differences did the changes to the 2 PRO make tonally and regarding the schematics that make it less well liked? I don't know if I'm the only one or not, but I would love to see you take us on a schematic walkthrough of the "high water" marks of classic bass amp design (like the 69 SVT vs Traynor YBA3A, vs 1987 skunkworks SVT-HD vs 1988-92 SVT ll (non-pro) vs SVT 2 PRO and SVT-CL specs. Can you please do this for us in your spare time? This kind of amp comparison series might take off and make your channel much bigger than it currently is? Who knows, but I honestly can't think of anyone else more qualified than you that I would want to describe the changes and the effects of those changes to classic lines of amps! On that note, another iconic line of amps that I am so interested in is the Fender Bassman and Bassman 50 series. In a similar vein as what I just described regarding the SVT, I would love to know revisions (and possible reasons) that Leo made to the tweed 5 (A-F) 6 circuit, why Jim Marshall chose (of all the amps in the world) to base the JTM45 on the 5F6-A circuit, why Pete Traynor did the same thing with his YBA1, why Leo moved on to the brown panel piggyback designs and then to the black panel AA864? Also, why CBS began almost immediately to alter his designs in the AA165 and AB165 circuits, and finally what did they hope to accomplish in going farther away from Leo's AA864 design in their later silverfaced era amps, with such circuits as the AC568, AA270 and so forth? Can you think of other all tube amps that made as much of an impact on amplification as these 2 did? Would you be willing to take on such a project? Thanks alot for your time and effort that you put in to making your videos for us! Cheers.

[@marka1986]

In general he doesn't spend much time with schematics on these videos.

[@kosmicwizard]

@@marka1986 doesn't mean that he won't.

[@guitarzan11litwin51]

Great vid as usual. Is that why some companies have standby and power switches on the back? Like groove tubes amps and fender amps.

[@rorobishop9661]

Yes sometimes mostly is just looks and being historic as it can just be easily fixed by just moving the board to the left away from the stdby Plus they were all handwired then so it was less of a problem

[@rokonikolic731]

Hi! I always wondered why SVT's have no 8ohm output, not even newer models, since 8ohm cabs are quite regular these days. Oher tube amps with 6550's have it. I know it's an old design, but would it be such a radical change? This is coming from a tech noob. Thanks.

[@rorobishop9661]

Because no cab ampeg makes is 8 ohm lol They want you to use their branded cab they are aware of this issue and do not adress it

[@rokonikolic731]

@@rorobishop9661 they do make a number of 8ohm cabs.

[@j.justinzimmerman9836]

But seriously, Thank you so much for doing this. Big fan of the SVT! Glad to learn about Yamaha, and now actually hear the results. This is a great thing you do for us. You’re an excellent teacher. Again, Thanks. JJZ…(°¿.°`)

[@jaycee30865]

Warning: subliminal message at 2:27.

[@alwaysforget911]

Hey any recommendations on what the best SVT-CL alternative is? Carrying around an 80lb head from gig to gig is just too much for me.

[@rorobishop9661]

I mean if you want tube its pretty much all around the 80 to 60 pound range if not tho you can I mean super bassman by fender is 65 with the same 6 6550s just missing the 12au7 You could just get a SS amp tho

[@hottotty13]

Man you’re right. Their solid state shit sucks. SVT7 was sizzlie sounding, then replacement simply turned off never to return.

[@Apprentice_of_the_Leonine]

The SLM-era (made before 2007 or so) solid state amps were better, or at least more reliable. LOUD Technologies screwed the pooch by outsourcing manufacturing to China at a time when Chinese manufacturing was still pretty horrible. Even with the improvements made since then, I still wouldn't do that just to save a few bucks if I was in charge of the whole shebang.

[@goodun2974]

Some players who use flatwound strings might like the "aggressive" channel and settings. Or vice versa.

[@someoneoutthere7512]

Thanks for this... very interesting. For the buzz problem I was wondering if you could use a shielded cable that runs to that standby switch? The shield would be earth grounded. This is a common technique used inside test equipment that I've worked on for the power switch.

[@PsionicAudio]

I tried shielding. No difference. It would take mu-metal, which is a very expensive fix for a very expensive very new amp.

[@KevlarVTX]

Sounds identical to what I get out of my Sansamp VT Bass pedal. But more sterile. Maybe it's the cab you are using.

[@bobstrete]

Is there really any difference between this amp and a USA made SVT-VR?

[@richhillbass]

1 year later …. Diodes showing up as problematic? How about standby buzz ? Got mine almost 2 years ago , love it , I sent a clip of your beautiful description of why this unruly beast fits in the mix so well to FOH guy who hears with his eyes , ya it’s a large amp and cab ( part of that imho is the 8-10” infinite baffle , doesn’t go super low hz like ported cabs )Thank you for such an informed and informative review- diode thing has me a bit concerned- thanks !

[@iloverush123]

It's funny you mention the standby hum, I think my classic does it worse than any svt I've ever played lol. Ofc, not that you'd notice when you're playing, there's really nothing that'll give you a shit eating grin like a tube svt on a stack. Great review man

[@randyhellson9361]

What cab do you use here? Is it recorded from the mic in front of the cab or is it mixed (DI+mic) signal?

[@PsionicAudio]

My shop cab, an open backed 2x12 about the dimensions of an AC30. WGS ET65 and Veteran 30 speakers. SM57 on the ET65. No DI.

[@hkguitar1984]

Any update as to how Ampeg addressed the Stand-By buzz? Great Review. Back in 1979 I watched an SVT catch fire! The cause was 100% due to operator error/carelessness.

[@PsionicAudio]

I have no subsequent information. But changes like this are like turning a big ship. It takes a good while.

[@MrThumper1440]

“Take it to a good tech”. How do I find a reputable tech? I’m in Pittsburgh, PA. Is there any way to search for a reputable tech?

[@PsionicAudio]

I know a good tech in Columbus, OH and a good tech in Philly. Here's Rob Chafe in Columbus. Mad Cow Amplification / RAC Music 614-966-5713 He might know someone in Pittsburgh.

[@archilchkhikvishvili539]

Good quality sound :)

[@theorthodoxjukebox3424]

Hi am having an issue with the same amp, am not getting any output from the peramp, if connected to the power amp am getting sound. When I click the standby switch to up the light remains red. Could you please help me.. Thanks

[@rorobishop9661]

When the amp is on do you smell a burning smell, because the red normally means there is a fault have you checked the preamp tubes

[@mez5590]

How about running a cable from your send and return?

[@eDWICHt]

Thanks for this, what a great video!

[@ahunt747]

Just got mine in the mail and it has the standby buzz. I’ll probably just ask for a replacement from the dealer instead of sending it to Ampeg. I’m bummed because this amp is absolutely amazing otherwise :(

[@PsionicAudio]

Right? Such a dumb flaw in an otherwise great thing. Hope they get this taken care of.

[@ahunt747]

@@PsionicAudio Yeah it’s a shame. I’d love to hear what Ampeg ends up doing about this issue if you find out!

[@charlespiche]

I just tried this amp in a store and it also had the standby buzz. I think they all have it. They DO sound wonderful, and it's a total non-issue on stage, but at that price...

[@derekmontroy321]

Can this amp be used with active basses? Is there a db pad?

[@PsionicAudio]

Each channel has a low gain input which works as a pad for active basses.

[@codymcgrew4015]

Does anyone know if this amp can be used well with guitars like the old SVT’s?

[@frankporfidio9813]

Sure , the amp doesn't know what your'e plugging in

[@popitn2nd]

Why didn’t you release the matching cloth for this amp for 410hlf. Can you ampeg atleast sell the cloth to us. I got the svt-vr amp and the 410 hlf cab. It looks ugly together

[@rorobishop9661]

Ikr I am anoyed want do do the same with my V4b But the balck cloth is turning me away

[@j.justinzimmerman9836]

You…! That amp…! To the TOP BABY! I can feel the en-ah-Gee It’s hitting Me! You & that amp will Rule The World! JJZ…(°¿.°`)

[@palmettorunner6749]

Should have put the standby back in the back.

[@jamesreynolds4487]

Everyone need’s your contact info you’re an expert at this. I’d bring mine to you.

[@goodun2974]

Got any recommendations for a really reliable modern 6550 that can handle the full voltages and plate dissipation in these amplifiers?

[@PsionicAudio]

The EH from a good vendor are usually a good bet

[@goodun2974]

@@PsionicAudio , I'd love to see a video of you refurbishing an Ampeg V4B or the guitar amp-head version with reverb. I've got one of each, both in need of serious work ....

[@PsionicAudio]

I have some extensive photo galleries on FB showing a lot of amps (a few hundred) including a few V4s, with and without reverb.

[@goodun2974]

@@PsionicAudio , I'm not on Facebook (I despise FB, they're an evil company).

[@iloverush123]

I'm running valve art 6550s in my classic and jj kt88s in my svt-hd. I had a valve art become unstable, which antique electronics replaced, but both sets are rock solid now. I like the Russian stuff I was just kinda underwhelmed at the sound.

[@rrmin36]

Ampeg themselves did a comparison of this head to an original SVT, and IMO the sound difference is still worlds apart... The old amps win... These new ones are much more sterile sounding.

[@rdvgrd6]

Ok boomer

[@rrmin36]

@@rdvgrd6 Honestly it was wonderful coming up in the 80's... I'd hate to be young in todays USA. Guilt ridden kids being sold you're a victim... And if you can't hear the difference in the old and new Ampeg, I feel even worse for you... keep trying ...

[@rdvgrd6]

@@rrmin36 Im not American and I don't live in the USA. there might be a difference because you can't make the exact same old amp considering the tubes are different, some parts aren't manufactured anymore and most importantly old amps have burn in time of about a few decades. so hearing boomers always say old sounds better is pretty funny considering your old amp wouldn't sound that different than that if it was brand new.

[@rrmin36]

@@rdvgrd6 On some amps you may be correct, but, listening to these two amps there is a world of difference. And the newer one doesn't sound like it has half the presence of the old amp... It's like comparisons between electronics and their VST emulations... The VSTs don't even compare to the physical units... IMO Ampeg amps sounded great right off the line back in the day... So I don't think it was burn in, but, I'd guess for these guys it probably has to do with quality of transformers and other parts... I'm not saying the new amps sound bad, just not as good as the old ones... But, that seems to be the way of the world with just about every product you can name... not just ampeg amps...

[@anthonyman8008]

I just bought a heritage now you ruined it for me

[@turnpikedivide]

There’s only one way to use this: 8x10 & 2x15 biamped.

[@pgreen8531]

I bought my first ampeg in 2010 it was the biggest price of shit I have ever owned ..been playing base since 1968..the best camps I ever used were Peavy and Mesa boogie. I would never buy another ampeg as long as I livei have been using fender guitars and my current bass is a 1973 fender precision bought brand new

[@charlesjaphe]

Modern Ampeg is 'over-engineer', why have diodes going to 6550's? SVT's from 1969 to 1978 are perfect from engineering standpoint. Easy to replace, work on, and debug issues. Modern Ampeg's schematic are hard to figure out vs older SVT's. As well as Modern Ampeg are harder to take apart, and troubleshoot. They even leave off from the botton of the printer Circuit boards Rxx or Cxx, Jxx. Have to look at the top and guess where they are on Bottom. Another issue, the bias of the 6550, and Hum Bal control... Straight forward on Older SVTs and easy to do and reach those 'Test Points'. The modern no where to be found. No Test Points. In summary, like Modern Ampeg but they are not fixable by a Human, They make buy a new amp because it's so hard to troubleshoot and repair. Good for them, not for you. I seen musicians buy serveral Modern to handle this issue instead of repair. With Older you need at most (2) one for play and (1) backup while the other is being repaired. I can go on and on. This what comes to mind quickly.

[@johnyork5138]

I used only the 8x 10 tilt back.

[@coolbro6969]

heres a demo of the vintage kzbin.info/www/bejne/jJXckH6FjamijMk

[@m.hughes2521]

Don't waste your money. I did. Things are not what they used to be, trust me, a Chinese circuit board POS is Not worth two grand.

[@coolbro6969]

the vintage kzbin.info/www/bejne/jJXckH6FjamijMk