2:95 VS 2:90

[scottcrud]

How do the old 2:95's sound compared to the 2:90's?

 

[cradleofflames]

I find the 2:90 to be harsh.

The response is much stiffer with the 2:90 since the Class A section operates pentode while the the 2:95 and 3:95 operate triode.

 

[bpm91]

I haven't tried the 2:90 but I use the 2:95 with my Studio Preamp.... It sounds amazing. Plenty of headroom, delicious sound.

 

[scottcrud]

The 2:95 is 3 rack space right? Wonder how much more it weighs than the 2;90....

 

[JT_Marshmallow]

Its actually 4 spaces. The more feature-rich 395 is 3 spaces but is deeper in the back.

I'll bet its heavier than the 2:90 because the whole chassis is just stronger, thicker, and more bad ass. :mrgreen:

 

[scottcrud]

Thanks for the replies. I've really been toying with the idea of buying another Studio Preamp. I had a Studio Preamp and 2:90 with the modern switch engaged and loved it, but have always wondered if it would sound better or worse with the 2:95...

 

[JT_Marshmallow]

Well, if you're curious about the 2:95, check out the 3:95 too. Here's what it looks like:

http://www.postmodernblues.com/images/scott/amps/big_rig_395_rack.JPG

It has these extra footswitchable voicing options like Half Drive and Deep Extend, just no Modern mode. I have never tried one but have read a lot about them and they sound fantastic.

Aside from the obvious difference in features, it is also different from the 2:95 in that it runs all 6L6 tubes. The 2:95 runs EL34's in the outer sockets. So technically the 2:95 should be more mid-rangey because of the EL34's, but its not a huge difference.

One of the main things that fascinate me about these power amps is that they have massive transformers. This will have an affect on the "feel" of your tone.

I have been toying with buying a 3:95 for a while now, but its always hard to justify because I already have a power amp, and have gone through 3 other power amps in the last year...but 2:95's and 3:95's both go for about $650-700 on ebay.

 

[cradleofflames]

You can use EL34s in the class a slots of a 395 as well, I am. The problem tends to be whether or not they'll fit.

 

[JT_Marshmallow]

Ah so this is why the 2:95 is 4 spaces tall - so the EL34's can fit. So on the 395 I guess you'd have to take off the outer shell. Man would that thing look bad ass like that.

 

[cradleofflames]

My tube of choice are electro-harmonix and their EL34s fit.

I haven't had the chance to try others; particularly the =C= 6L6 everybody seems to love.

About the tone with EL34s, you'll probably want to use British voiced speakers. The rolled off high end prevents it from being shrill like it can be with EVs.

 

[francm]

I love the sound of the 2:90. Definitely has a bold sound. The modern and deep modes are cool too but I tend to use the deep option more, mostly at low volumes. The 1/2 power switch is really useful for home use too. The thing really moves a lot of air.