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Post by guitarman1 on May 19, 2006 12:20:04 GMT -7
Fedex delivered my Stingray head last night and I've got to say....what a pretty sounding & smooth amp, with lots of articulation AND girth. I was only able to check it out using a Tonker in my Maz combo, but it sounded good with that speaker. IMHO, Celestion Blues really are needed to get that Voxy "krang" that I'm looking for. I want to spend more time with the amp first, but I'll probably spring for some Blues ($$$ ouch) in a 2x12 open back cab. I can't wait to try out a NOS rectifier and maybe a Mullard or GEC EF86. I recently tried and returned a custom shop 30 watt Bad Cat Cub II 30. I'm really glad I sent it back and got the 'Ray instead. The 'Ray is an overall bigger and sweeter sounding amp. Man of man, this thing sure can put out the low end and still keep it tight!!!!
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Post by billyguitar on May 19, 2006 12:24:51 GMT -7
I'm not looking for Voxy from mine, just smooth so I'm glad to read your post. Meanwhile, I'm still waiting.
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Post by guitarman1 on May 19, 2006 13:17:30 GMT -7
How much longer do you have to wait Billy?
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Post by billyguitar on May 19, 2006 13:21:09 GMT -7
I wish I knew! Ordered it on 3-31. I hope only 3 or 4 more weeks.
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Post by Bill on May 19, 2006 17:18:06 GMT -7
Hey Steve, I know you recently got an ES, and have had a Maz Sr for a while. What's your take on the 3 at this point?
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Post by Curt on May 19, 2006 21:34:19 GMT -7
Jonesin' for the RXES my self these dayZ..
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Post by taswegian on May 20, 2006 9:50:48 GMT -7
We might have to change the Mylesrosius strain to the "Tele62" strain! Maybe Tele62itis? Or Tele62tion! Z-Naticitis? You might just be the worst case yet But don't worry my friend...you are not alone! ;D
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Post by guitarman1 on May 22, 2006 7:36:15 GMT -7
Hey Steve, I know you recently got an ES, and have had a Maz Sr for a while. What's your take on the 3 at this point? Hey Steve, I know you recently got an ES, and have had a Maz Sr for a while. What's your take on the 3 at this point? Madison, that is a great question! Here goes.... I was really knocked out by the RXES, with its percussive attack and clarity of tone, but I couldn't really get that tone until I cranked it to unusable gigging volumes. While it also had great clarity & chime, I found that the Maz Sr. is a better fit for the Blues act I'm currently with. I had it on a trial basis, so I sent it back. From all of the recent raves on the Stingray, I thought that I could do better with the Ray. I have to say that I was really floored by the RX. If I played large venues, I would be using one. Yesterday I was able to do some very close listening & comparisons to the Maz & the Ray. The only speaker I currently have available is a Tonker in my Maz combo, so for now, that's my only reference point. The Stingray is a little softer, sweeter & less percussive than the Maz and is a tad more rich/complex. As the volume increases past 1 or 2, it starts to compress and loose definition and high end. I have to turn the tone down significantly to compensate. Personally, it gets too mushy for me at those levels. I know the general consensus here is that it's a smooth amp, but it is maybe a little too smooth/polite for me. It can get thicker mids and more low end than the Maz, at the expense of getting mushy quicker when increasing the volume. The Maz (I have the reverb model) holds together better at higher levels and just has an overall more aggressive feel. Both amps have that Dr. Z signature tone and have some overlap. I spent a LONG time going back & forth between the two, trying to decide which one I preferred, but I still can't make up my mind. I'd really like to compare the Ray to a no verb Maz. The Maz also has a little more clean headroom. I love all three of the mentioned amps, but because they all have that Dr. Z EL-84 signature tone, I can only justify keeping one. While there are some big differences between the three, I could easily record each amp and with the proper tone settings, make it very hard to differentiate between the three. I know Z designed the Ray with Celestion Blues in mind, so maybe the punchy mids of the Blues add that bit of attack that I'm missing with the Ray/Tonker. To give a simple description between the three, I would say the RXES and Ray have similar tone, with that EF86 clarity. The RXES is louder and more aggressive, while the Ray is sweeter and pretty. The Maz tone doesn't get the EF86 glassy chime and there is a bit of a midrange peak that the other two don't have. The Maz attack/punch is in the middle of the two. After reading all of the great things about the Stingray, I was expecting the earth to move when I first plugged in. I was slightly disappointed. Maybe it takes a set of Celestion Blues to achieve its full potential. I will say that I got one of the best Tele bridge pickup tones I've ever heard on the Ray. Please understand....all of these amps are KILLER, WORLD CLASS instruments and are truly some of the best amps I've ever played. For strictly playing the Blues with an aggressive BW style on the only speaker I currently have available, I'm giving the nod to the Maz. I also think it is a better classic rock type of amp. I haven't compared these amps using pedals much yet and hope to do that tonight. I'd like to hear some feedback on this guys. I’d like to get the Ray a little more aggressive yet retain the sweetness. Maybe a GEC EF86 will add some punch. FYI: I used the same El-84s, rectifiers & PI in both the Maz & Ray when comparing them.
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Post by benttop (Steve) on May 22, 2006 8:01:48 GMT -7
You need to try the 'ray through an Alnico speaker - big difference here. I can't wait for my Celestion Alnico Blues - I'm currently testing through a Weber Alnico California that I have in my Rivera Sedona. But even through that speaker, the 'ray gets a lot happier. It really likes that Alnico sound...
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Post by guitarman1 on May 22, 2006 8:09:04 GMT -7
You need to try the 'ray through an Alnico speaker - big difference here. I can't wait for my Celestion Alnico Blues - I'm currently testing through a Weber Alnico California that I have in my Rivera Sedona. But even through that speaker, the 'ray gets a lot happier. It really likes that Alnico sound... Hi Benttop. In what way will alnico speakers improve the Stingray?
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Post by Bill on May 22, 2006 9:00:41 GMT -7
Nice review, guitarman1! I was curious because I've owned all 3 as well, and think you captured each very accurately. However, like benttop said, it'd be a good idea to try the two alnicos with the 'ray before making your final decision. While IMO this amp kills with country, it'll also blues it up well too. I was at a jam yesterday that got downright LOUD towards the end. From all indicators out front, AND way over on the other side of the stage, the Stingray cut through the mix very well, keep in mind I'm using a single alnico Weber 50w. The only trouble I had was near the end of the jam, the guy beside me (amps are 1 foot apart) pretty much buried everyone. What amp you ask? He was using a killer sounding 70's Pro Reverb with 2 12's, with a P-90 equipped Tele, dimed RC Booster and TS9 to boot....Whoa, that thing ROCKED. We were trading fours and my single Weber just couldn't get me quite there. ;D I'm pretty sure it would've taken a Maz Sr 2x12 to keep up! In any event, I spend most time playing smaller clubs, not LOUD AS ALL GET OUT jams, that'll ruin your ears! They are fun every once in a while though.
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Post by guitarman1 on May 22, 2006 9:26:06 GMT -7
Nice review, guitarman1! I was curious because I've owned all 3 as well, and think you captured each very accurately. However, like benttop said, it'd be a good idea to try the two alnicos with the 'ray before making your final decision. While IMO this amp kills with country, it'll also blues it up well too. I was at a jam yesterday that got downright LOUD towards the end. From all indicators out front, AND way over on the other side of the stage, the Stingray cut through the mix very well, keep in mind I'm using a single alnico Weber 50w. The only trouble I had was near the end of the jam, the guy beside me (amps are 1 foot apart) pretty much buried everyone. What amp you ask? He was using a killer sounding 70's Pro Reverb with 2 12's, with a P-90 equipped Tele, dimed RC Booster and TS9 to boot....Whoa, that thing ROCKED. We were trading fours and my single Weber just couldn't get me quite there. ;D I'm pretty sure it would've taken a Maz Sr 2x12 to keep up! In any event, I spend most time playing smaller clubs, not LOUD AS ALL GET OUT jams, that'll ruin your ears! They are fun every once in a while though. Yeah Madison.....I'd like to try some Celestion Blues with it and see if that infamous Blues "krang" brings it to life. I wish I knew somebody who has some Blues that I could try. Even with Avatar's pricing, they would set me back $550.00 + shipping for two. How do they sound with a Maz? What Weber alnico are you using? I don't have allot of experience with alnicos, but from my reading, wouldn't they tend to soften up the Stingray more than a ceramic?
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Post by benttop (Steve) on May 22, 2006 10:00:15 GMT -7
You need to try the 'ray through an Alnico speaker - big difference here. I can't wait for my Celestion Alnico Blues - I'm currently testing through a Weber Alnico California that I have in my Rivera Sedona. But even through that speaker, the 'ray gets a lot happier. It really likes that Alnico sound... Hi Benttop. In what way will alnico speakers improve the Stingray? Well, I can explain it just as well as trying to describe what peanut butter tastes like. It just sounds cool - the upper mids and top end are better from what I can hear. But this Alnico may not sound like the Blues that are on the way. I've never heard the Celestion Alnico Blues in person. But I have a number of sources that nearly guarantee I'll like them - I hope so, I've made an eleven-hundred dollar commitment!
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Post by Bill on May 22, 2006 10:20:21 GMT -7
[glow=red,2,300] "What Weber alnico are you using? I don't have allot of experience with alnicos, but from my reading, wouldn't they tend to soften up the Stingray more than a ceramic?"[/glow] I'm using the alnico blue dog. It is darker sounding than the ceramic 30 I bought from you. Like benttop said, I have trusted sources blown away by the 'ray combo w/ two blues...although I've yet to personally try one. A lot of folks write about the Cele blue being the "gold standard" speaker, or the "speaker of all speakers"...as it is capable of covering a lot of sonic territory. BUT, an alnico compresses with VOLUME...and consequently is not for everyone. If my routine gig was playing large, or outdoor venues, I'd have to use ceramic speakers and a Maz Sr. Since that is not my calling ;D, the current setup is super SWEET! To each his own, right? Btw, the plan is to pick up a Celestion Gold 50w in July, when they become available...that way I'll know the best speaker made will be at my disposal...and I'll take all the help I can get.
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Post by benttop (Steve) on May 22, 2006 10:29:42 GMT -7
Btw, the plan is to pick up a Celestion Gold 50w in July, when they become available...that way I'll know the best speaker made will be at my disposal...and I'll take all the help I can get. I plan to pick up one of those as well - both for the Stingray when I want a 1x12 situation, and for the 6545 which I think will sound considerably better with an Alnico speaker.
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Post by guitarman1 on May 22, 2006 10:30:23 GMT -7
[glow=red,2,300] "What Weber alnico are you using? I don't have allot of experience with alnicos, but from my reading, wouldn't they tend to soften up the Stingray more than a ceramic?"[/glow] Btw, the plan is to pick up a Celestion Gold 50w in July, when they become available...that way I'll know the best speaker made will be at my disposal...and I'll take all the help I can get. Bill, I don't think you need much help. I was just listening to your sound clips again and you've got some great stuff. BTW: How, who, what, when did you record those backing tracks on "Beckish"? Very, very sweet & soulful....the whole package....not just the backing tracks!
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Post by Bill on May 22, 2006 10:57:36 GMT -7
You are too kind, Steve...thank you! That track was picked up Here, and was created by Scott Lerner. I downloaded it to my computer, and then downloaded it to my Boss 1200CD, tuned my Tele up, and went to work. I used a simple setup, SM 57, Tele, Stingray, WEBER BLUEDOG , and a good dose of "I sure hope this turns out okay!"
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Post by guitarman1 on May 22, 2006 11:28:26 GMT -7
You are too kind, Steve...thank you! That track was picked up Here, and was created by Scott Lerner. I downloaded it to my computer, and then downloaded it to my Boss 1200CD, tuned my Tele up, and went to work. I used a simple setup, SM 57, Tele, Stingray, WEBER BLUEDOG , and a good dose of "I sure hope this turns out okay!" Bill I'm not being kind....just truthful!
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Post by str8arrow on May 22, 2006 11:46:03 GMT -7
Don't even know if you're interested but thought I'd post this from another forum just in case... sounds interesting thegearpage.net/board/showthread.php?t=143562FWIW: Played my SR for the 1st weekend this past Fri and Sat.... D***!!!!! Vol on almost 4 (afraid to take it higher) Cut - off, tone -3:30.... Sounded great, took pedals extremely well... got more compliments than normal. I'm very happy... with the tone anyway.
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Post by billyguitar on May 22, 2006 11:57:14 GMT -7
I played my Maz sr Saturday under a tent with a provided sound system. For sound check I had the master all the way up, the preamp on about 2:00 and plugged into the low input. The soundman said it was too loud so I turned the master down to about 2:00 to 3:00. I wanted it higher but it must've been too hot to mix. I'm hoping the Stang Ray can get cranked a bit with the 2 x 10 cab I've also got on order.
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Post by hdahs143 on May 22, 2006 11:58:35 GMT -7
I'm sort of in the same boat you are. The first Stingray I tried was a 2X12 combo loaded with Blues, and it was like one of those "out of body" experiences they talk about. Truly amazing. Anyway I didn't have the $$, so I didn't buy it. Last month Alpha recieved Stingray Head #41, so i jumped on it. Tried it with my ZBEST, and it was just okay. Definitely not blown away like the combo. Plus the Stingray seems to have more bottom than the Zbest was comfy with. My MAZ head has always sounded great with the ZBEST although I'm not real fond of the V30. So I was thinking the same thing, do I keep the Ray or the Maz? Then I played an outdoor gig with my regular setup but using the Stingray head. Best live sound I've ever had - period! Even with the ZBEST. I'm definitely keeping the Ray. Not sure about the Maz. Like you I don't really need 2 EL84 amps.
I've sold the ZBEST, and am gettin ready to buy and open back with 2 Blues. If they dont suit my fancy, I can always sell them and try some webers. I think Avatar sell blues for 239 each. You can get their premium cab with 2 blues for 699. not bad.
Good luck and check out some speakers. It is an amazing amp!
Harold
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Post by guitarman1 on May 22, 2006 12:56:02 GMT -7
I'm sort of in the same boat you are. The first Stingray I tried was a 2X12 combo loaded with Blues, and it was like one of those "out of body" experiences they talk about. Truly amazing. Anyway I didn't have the $$, so I didn't buy it. Last month Alpha recieved Stingray Head #41, so i jumped on it. Tried it with my ZBEST, and it was just okay. Definitely not blown away like the combo. Plus the Stingray seems to have more bottom than the Zbest was comfy with. My MAZ head has always sounded great with the ZBEST although I'm not real fond of the V30. So I was thinking the same thing, do I keep the Ray or the Maz? Then I played an outdoor gig with my regular setup but using the Stingray head. Best live sound I've ever had - period! Even with the ZBEST. I'm definitely keeping the Ray. Not sure about the Maz. Like you I don't really need 2 EL84 amps. I've sold the ZBEST, and am gettin ready to buy and open back with 2 Blues. If they dont suit my fancy, I can always sell them and try some webers. I think Avatar sell blues for 239 each. You can get their premium cab with 2 blues for 699. not bad. Good luck and check out some speakers. It is an amazing amp! Harold Thanks for that info Harold. That really makes we want to hold onto the amp more. I've got an empty 2x12, open back cab from Mojo being delivered tomorrow. I may just have to bite the bullet and order up some Blues.
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Post by guitarman1 on May 22, 2006 13:03:20 GMT -7
Don't even know if you're interested but thought I'd post this from another forum just in case... sounds interesting thegearpage.net/board/showthread.php?t=143562FWIW: Played my SR for the 1st weekend this past Fri and Sat.... D***!!!!! Vol on almost 4 (afraid to take it higher) Cut - off, tone -3:30.... Sounded great, took pedals extremely well... got more compliments than normal. I'm very happy... with the tone anyway. Thanks for the info. What kind of music do you play? BTW, I just ordered a Blue from Avatar......keeping my fingers crossed. If I like it with the Stingray, I'll order another.
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Post by str8arrow on May 22, 2006 13:28:10 GMT -7
Good luck on the Blue....!
We play old and new country 60+ % and 70's-90's Rock... Whalen/Willie to George S to Keith U to Lyn/Skrd to Ozzy and on to Nickel Back
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Post by guitarman1 on May 22, 2006 13:41:21 GMT -7
Good luck on the Blue....! We play old and new country 60+ % and 70's-90's Rock... Whalen/Willie to George S to Keith U to Lyn/Skrd to Ozzy and on to Nickel Back Are you happy with your Stingray Rock tone? What do you use for overdrive?
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Post by str8arrow on May 22, 2006 14:53:57 GMT -7
Never bought the SR for Rock tones, only for pure harmonically and sustainingly rich cleans. I would be using the Jeckyll & Hyde, Keeley BD2, Sometimes even Keeley's Comp, and very limited, Boss's GT8. The JH Hyde side blew a gasket last Fri so the GT8 is now numero uno. I'm not thrilled but it's actually doing a fine job, with those lovely digitized tone enhancements and all. Seriously, I kinda like it...very flexible with all it's effects. I just prefer 1st amp distortion, then analog pedal. Even most amps need a pedal for the icing though. Besides, I have a 30W amp and a 15W speaker... don't even want to think about trying to coax rock out of it yet......
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Post by fishman on May 23, 2006 6:14:02 GMT -7
Just keep playin' the 'Ray, sooner or later it will "shift" for lack of a better word......I was not jump up and down excited when I first played my 2-12 combo, after about 10 days-2 weeks all of a sudden it started to sound better....and better and better and I also noticed I could turn down the volume from where I started because it became louder , punchy-er so with less on the volume I stayed the same db wise and get a better sound....
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Post by guitarman1 on May 23, 2006 8:20:11 GMT -7
Well guys, I went home last night and did the Maz/Ray comparisons and the Maz started to sound less appealing when compared to the Ray for some reason. I also tried out my Diamond Compressor, Timmy and Stampede SOV-1 pedals with the Ray and they really worked well with that amp. I made the decision to keep the Stingray and unfortunately, sell the Maz Sr. 'cause I can't afford both. The Ray and all of it's subtleties are starting to grow on me. The proverbial light came on last night. I have to say that I'll miss the Maz allot.
Thank you guys for all of your input and help.
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Post by billyguitar on May 23, 2006 8:49:22 GMT -7
I've got a 'Ray on order but I don't think I can let my Maz sr go. I think I'd miss it being there. I have that problem with just about every guitar and amp I've ever had. I'm such a packrat!
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Post by guitarman1 on May 23, 2006 9:39:44 GMT -7
I've got a 'Ray on order but I don't think I can let my Maz sr go. I think I'd miss it being there. I have that problem with just about every guitar and amp I've ever had. I'm such a packrat! Yeah...I'm definately gonna miss my Maz. That amp is a Classic! BTH: I just got off the phone with Mike at KCA Tubes and ordered a NOS Mullard EF86 for the Ray. Aruntang has been saying great things about them in his Ray.
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