311ZOSOVHJH

Either way expect a fair amount of tweaking


Have fun and let us know.

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mdh2861

Ok, my FINAL verdict is in... I am going to buy a used AxeFX standard off of eBay and give it a try based on all of your recommendations. I figure, if I dont get along with it, its easy to re-sell and ship and it wont cost me anything, then I can get my mark iv (or v ) . I actually checked out the software "Axe Edit" on my computer and read the manual and its pretty easy.

Soooo.... couple questions.....

I record on a macbook, using Logic Express 9. My audio interface is an m-audio Fast Track pro. I currently output my mac to a PA system, and use input monitoring to record. If i'm recording from an amp, I use a MIC -> interface -> mac. With axefx, will I be using the audio out to my interface? Also, does it have a seperate "monitor" out, so I can stop using input monitoring in logic....?

Since the AxeFX will only cost $800, I am going to use my remaining money to buy a kick ass PA/Monitor system... This will be the output for both logic AND the AxeFX. Is this a good idea? Should I have something different? I have no idea what the axefx "likes" for a speaker system... Thanks everyone for your help!

icronic

You're definitely taking the wattage thing too far. In my experience low wattage is not for bedroom volumes. I hate the sound of my Mark V at 10 watts at a quiet volume, once you get the volume up about half way though then it really starts to shine. At home though... I leave it on 90 watts.

I really really like the Express series of amps, but I've always felt that it was a $1000 amp priced at $1500 just because it's a Mesa... I would not buy one new, and I am a Mesa fanboi

Carvin V3 is a pretty nice amp, but I find the gain to be a little fuzzy... Especially when quiet.

A Peavey JSX might not be a bad choice, I was constantly surprised at the huge range in tones it offered.

Mark IV... Great clean, incredibly great lead, but the rhythm channel is kinda weak. Nowhere near as versatile as a V.

AxeFX is awesome if you can afford it... I completely disagree with the guy who said the low gain/clean tones are kinda meh. They're not once you figure out how to dial them in. The high gain stuff... Well that's a given. Just be aware that there are many expenses beyond buying the unit. You need a way to listen to it as well which means either a power amp + cab or preferably FRFR speakers or a set of decent computer monitors or a pair of studio monitors... You'd also most likely need a footswitch.. The one they sell is $800 although there are cheaper ones to be found.

I'd say... Mark V. Or if you're willing the make a larger investment an AxeFX2.

trashedlostfdup

actually the MKIV is my best amp at low volumes thanks to two master volumes (each channel and global) you put the global at 1 or 2 and dial in with the channel master volume it gets pretty quiet and doesn't sound terrible. it sounds better louder, but i can play it at 3am and not irritate anyone. i have more free time at night so thats when i play most.

i have no issues dialing in a good rhythm tone on the MKIV.

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Perverockstar69

Exactly, I insist the Kemper is a fine choice!

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Mesa Royal Atlantic
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R45VT

Mark IV, mark V. Great at any volume. Flexible with tone. Sparkling cleans to tah brootz and everything in between.

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mdh2861

Ok, so... its been a while since i updated this thread. I want to thank you all for your input... I considered MANY things, in the end, I went with the Kemper Amp. I was VERY close to purchasing an Axe FX or a Mesa Mark V. In the end, the kemper overhwelmed me with curiosity!

ikey_

something mesa used, something carvin? perhaps the steve vai lunchbox signature?

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mdh2861

all I can say is O-M-G, the kemper actually works... This couldnt have been a better choice for me..... I was so close to buying a Mark V (and its still on my list of things to buy, such a close second.... some people will want to shoot me for the comparison!), but man, this kemper, really does what it advertises. I will try and do a new amp day post complete with recordings. Thanks so much to everyone for their suggestions, I researched them all and had so much fun doing it!

bassmastamitch

Glad you're happy with it!

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Offworld92

Can you download tones for the Kemper?

If so, and if they can put it in a box that doesn't look hideous, I'd be interested.

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In your mind, you can fly.

HUMAN BLUEPRINT INSTANCE

HUMANIZER

Main Rig
Ibanez S420
LTD EC-1000
Peavey 6505 | MS412 (WGS)
Boss TU-3 | CS-3 | GT-10 | NS-2
MXR M77
Morley Little Alligator
Danelectro Fish & Chips

bassmastamitch

It needs rackmount. Then I would consider that over an Axe FX.

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Ippon

You can get a Mark V for $1500, easily. Or, a Rivera KR7 for $1100.

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iheartgun

the carvin legacy 3 is amazing. rackmountable 100 watt/50 watt head with 3 channels. i have the legacy 1 and for a two channel amp it is one of the most versatile amps u can get. the legacy 3 is even better.

the line 6 dt series are solid as well
+1 to the fryette sig:x
dont rule out the new peavey xxx2

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