DB4 vs. Z-Wreck

[Deleted]

Can anyone comment as to the volume difference between the two?
Is the Z-Wreck louder, or equal?    thanks

[Jaguarguy (Mike)]

Hey Tom,

I just ran a quick test for you. Caveat is that I have the DB4 2x12 loaded with the Blues and the ZWreck was played through a Zbest with standard speakers. At full volume on both, the DB4 was louder to my ears. It was at full 40 watts and I tested ZWreck in both comfort and speed. Also I ran DB4 on tone setting of 1, 4, and 5. Again, in all cases the DB4 sounded louder.

[Norrin Radd]

Sept 25, 2016 18:43:49 GMT -7 Jaguarguy (Mike) said:

Hey Tom,

I just ran a quick test for you. Caveat is that I have the DB4 2x12 loaded with the Blues and the ZWreck was played through a Zbest with standard speakers. At full volume on both, the DB4 was louder to my ears. It was at full 40 watts and I tested ZWreck in both comfort and speed. Also I ran DB4 on tone setting of 1, 4, and 5. Again, in all cases the DB4 sounded louder.

I'm guessing where you sat would make a difference considering the open versus closed nature of those two cabs. Plus I think (IIRC) those blues in the open back are also rated a higher db rating than the speakers in the Zbest.  Of course, depending on which configuration is in the Zbest, but I'm pretty sure the standard Zbest has lower rated db speakers.  Again - just guessing here. 

[fishbeiner]

Don't forget that you've also got the half power switch on the DB4 as well. That makes the DB4 much more manageable (dare I say versatile) in regards to volume in comparison to the Wreck. The amps are definitely different tone wise though. So if you (as others have) have found your sound in the Wreck, stick with it. Otherwise, definitely check out the DB4. It is still on my want list!

Incidentally, I had a Wreck for a brief time, and as volume was an issue, I used it with a Tone King Ironman ii Mini attenuator with great success. YMMV

[Jaguarguy (Mike)]

Neither of these amps are one-trick ponies! Even with the half-power switch the DB4 is loud. That and the tone control make it very versatile. I could get "semi" Z-Wreck tones from DB4 but not the other way around. Both are great sounding amps though.

[Deleted]

Thanks for doing the comparison for me Mike.
I appreciate it.

The DB4 is such a fine amp.
My favorite Z so far.
The Z-Wreck is one I'd really like to try though.
I think I need to add a 2x12 w/blues next, just to put me over the top.

[KeithA]

Sept 26, 2016 8:50:03 GMT -7 @bodegaboy said:

Thanks for doing the comparison for me Mike.
I appreciate it.

The DB4 is such a fine amp.
My favorite Z so far.
The Z-Wreck is one I'd really like to try though.
I think I need to add a 2x12 w/blues next, just to put me over the top.

I'm sure the 212 with blues is neat (I have that cab) but I'm looking forward to running my DB4 though my ZWreck cab....blue and a gold. I think the extra stiffness will work great !

[Deleted]

That's my plan eventually Keith.
Get the Blues in a 2x12, then switch out one with the Gold I already have.
Which will allow me to use one Blue in a 1x12 cab with my Ghia.

[bagabonz]

Hey Bodega Ray,
I have a Zwreck combo and I'm sort of local. I live in Benicia but have a place on Austin Creek a couple miles from Duncans Mills. Less than a half hour from you. If you ever want to trade off for a week or work out a meet up I am amenable to the idea. Love to check out a DB4 and/or the Jaz 20/40.

[doctorice]

Sept 26, 2016 16:27:48 GMT -7 bagabonz said:

Hey Bodega Ray,
I have a Zwreck combo and I'm sort of local. I live in Benicia but have a place on Austin Creek a couple miles from Duncans Mills. Less than a half hour from you. If you ever want to trade off for a week or work out a meet up I am amenable to the idea. Love to check out a DB4 and/or the Jaz 20/40.

I've had some great times having friends from Z Talk stop by to try out amps. Highly recommended.

[Deleted]

Welcome to the forum.
Thanks for the offer.
Are you in Cazadero?

[bagabonz]

I am on most weekends. Live and work in the bay area during the week. My place is on Cazadero Hwy. Bought it a year ago and I'm still remodeling. We love the area!