amv74
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Post by amv74 on Feb 25, 2017 11:09:51 GMT -7
New to the forum. Posted this also in the z 28 forum. I have a maz 18 nr and am looking at a z28 and Route 66 used to compliment the maz get another flavor so to speak. Can't play locally, so looking for some thoughts from those who have experience I basically play at home for fun and with some friends. I am concerned the route would be too loud but have an air brake. Any thoughts would be appreciated. Ps. Open to some other suggestions too, like the Ghia too. Maybe a remedy?
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Post by Jaguarguy (Mike) on Feb 25, 2017 11:46:41 GMT -7
What type of music do you play?
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amv74
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Post by amv74 on Feb 25, 2017 11:48:17 GMT -7
What type of music do you play? Sorry. Mostly blues rock type stuff.
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amv74
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Post by amv74 on Feb 25, 2017 11:49:38 GMT -7
What type of music do you play? Also, I play fenders, gretsches, and gibsons. Single coil and humbucker.
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Post by Mark (Basement Enthusiast) on Feb 25, 2017 12:51:24 GMT -7
Funny you should ask about this... Just this morning I A/B'd my Z-28 (had it for a few years) vs. my "new" Route 66 (just bought it used). I suspected they might be quite close in tone, so here's what I found using my Les Paul and the 2 amps through a Radial Headbone into a Brake Lite SA and a Scumback J75:
Z-28: Slightly "smaller" sounding (more like a ~50W amp in feel), flatter EQ, sweeter cleans; very crunchy when cranked
Route 66: Bigger/more bottom (more like a ~100W amp in feel) and more headroom (i.e., cleaner longer); punchier
When comparing the amps, I found that setting "3" on my Brake Lite with the Route 66 was seemed equivalent to setting "2" (less attenuation needed) with the Z-28. But when I said that the Z-28 was slightly "smaller" sounding, don't let that fool you--it can still get crazy loud without attenuation, and it's by no means a small/wimpy amp.
FWIW also, I tend to prefer my dual-P90 mahogany guitar into the Route 66--it's amazing; but also a Les Paul is good into it. As for the Z-28, I think Fender guitars work well too, but the Les Paul is my favorite with that amp.
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amv74
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Post by amv74 on Feb 25, 2017 12:57:31 GMT -7
Funny you should ask about this... Just this morning I A/B'd my Z-28 (had it for a few years) vs. my "new" Route 66 (just bought it used). I suspected they might be quite close in tone, so here's what I found using my Les Paul and the 2 amps through a Radial Headbone into a Brake Lite SA and a Scumback J75: Z-28: Slightly "smaller" sounding (more like a ~50W amp in feel), flatter EQ, sweeter cleans; very crunchy when cranked Route 66: Bigger/more bottom (more like a ~100W amp in feel) and more headroom (i.e., cleaner longer); punchier When comparing the amps, I found that setting "3" on my Brake Lite with the Route 66 was seemed equivalent to setting "2" (less attenuation needed) with the Z-28. But when I said that the Z-28 was slightly "smaller" sounding, don't let that fool you--it can still get crazy loud without attenuation, and it's by no means a small/wimpy amp. FWIW also, I tend to prefer my dual-P90 mahogany guitar into the Route 66--it's amazing; but also a Les Paul is good into it. As for the Z-28, I think Fender guitars work well too, but the Les Paul is my favorite with that amp. Is it safe for me to assume my air brake can tame either for usable home use?
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Post by Mark (Basement Enthusiast) on Feb 25, 2017 15:44:25 GMT -7
Is it safe for me to assume my air brake can tame either for usable home use? I'd say so, yeah. Keep in mind, too, that speaker choice will greatly affect overall volumes, too--big magnet speakers like the G12H-30 and Vintage 30 will be louder; smaller magnet ones like the Greenback or Creamback will be a touch quieter. But again, IMO, the biggest difference between these amps is that you'll have more shades of dirt/crunch with the '28, and more shades of clean/fat punch with the '66.
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amv74
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Post by amv74 on Feb 25, 2017 18:08:47 GMT -7
Is it safe for me to assume my air brake can tame either for usable home use? I'd say so, yeah. Keep in mind, too, that speaker choice will greatly affect overall volumes, too--big magnet speakers like the G12H-30 and Vintage 30 will be louder; smaller magnet ones like the Greenback or Creamback will be a touch quieter. But again, IMO, the biggest difference between these amps is that you'll have more shades of dirt/crunch with the '28, and more shades of clean/fat punch with the '66. Interesting, my z cab has a cream back. Also have cabs with a wizard and nighthawk. What is funny, the guy who is selling the 66 says it is the dirtiest amp he ever had, doesn't clean up, guy selling the z28 says it has cleans all day, hard to breakup. Funny peoples different impression on things. I know this is a bit silly, but what would you pick between the two and why if you don't mind? Considering I have a maz already.
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Post by Mark (Basement Enthusiast) on Feb 25, 2017 18:31:05 GMT -7
Interesting, my z cab has a cream back. Also have cabs with a wizard and nighthawk. What is funny, the guy who is selling the 66 says it is the dirtiest amp he ever had, doesn't clean up, guy selling the z28 says it has cleans all day, hard to breakup. Funny peoples different impression on things. Indeed, opinions like this can (and do) vary wildly! It's probably why we all buy/sell/trade so many amps over the years..! I know this is a bit silly, but what would you pick between the two and why if you don't mind? Considering I have a maz already. I think the Z-28 is a fantastic way to expand from the MAZ... 'cuz that's exactly what I did. Not that the Route 66 is worse by any means--in fact, it's an extremely impressive beast. But I think coming from the MAZ, the Z-28 will be "just about as much" amp (volume-wise) but a different tonal variety. Whereas the '66 would be a different tonal variety + wattage/volume.
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Post by gfreak on Feb 25, 2017 18:56:44 GMT -7
I find the 66 is smoother when you crank it up. The Z-28 is b bit more gritty when cranked. The Z-28 has a sweeter clean sound like a Fender. Speaker choice really affect how both amps sound, more so then other amps I have owned. I agree with Mark's advice, "the Z-28 is a fantastic way to expand from the MAZ" I had a Maz 18nr 2x10 red fang combo and the Z-28 would be a better choice over the 66.
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amv74
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Post by amv74 on Feb 25, 2017 19:01:58 GMT -7
Interesting, my z cab has a cream back. Also have cabs with a wizard and nighthawk. What is funny, the guy who is selling the 66 says it is the dirtiest amp he ever had, doesn't clean up, guy selling the z28 says it has cleans all day, hard to breakup. Funny peoples different impression on things. Indeed, opinions like this can (and do) vary wildly! It's probably why we all buy/sell/trade so many amps over the years..! I know this is a bit silly, but what would you pick between the two and why if you don't mind? Considering I have a maz already. I think the Z-28 is a fantastic way to expand from the MAZ... 'cuz that's exactly what I did. Not that the Route 66 is worse by any means--in fact, it's an extremely impressive beast. But I think coming from the MAZ, the Z-28 will be "just about as much" amp (volume-wise) but a different tonal variety. Whereas the '66 would be a different tonal variety + wattage/volume. I have to admit, I have been leaning that way, primarily on volume concerns. I can get a 2012 head for around 950 in excellent condition. I just think the 66 would be too much amp and I would get the full effects of it. I know the 28 is loud too, but maybe easier to tame. I also am looking to ad a ghia in the future. I think those three would make an awesome trifecta.
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Post by Mark (Basement Enthusiast) on Feb 25, 2017 19:17:14 GMT -7
Yes, they would! MAZ + Z-28 + Ghia = one righteous trio.
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amv74
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Post by amv74 on Feb 25, 2017 20:07:56 GMT -7
I find the 66 is smoother when you crank it up. The Z-28 is b bit more gritty when cranked. The Z-28 has a sweeter clean sound like a Fender. Speaker choice really affect how both amps sound, more so then other amps I have owned. I agree with Mark's advice, "the Z-28 is a fantastic way to expand from the MAZ" I had a Maz 18nr 2x10 red fang combo and the Z-28 would be a better choice over the 66. Thanks for the response. I think I will go for the z 28. I am also looking for a ghia to add. I think these 3 would make for hours of fun and diversity. Found a z28 for 950 in excellent condition. Very tempting. Only issue is it is with the tan front. My z gear is all salt and pepper. For reasons I can't explain, this stuff bothers me, but at that price I might just have to get over it...
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amv74
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Post by amv74 on Feb 25, 2017 20:11:11 GMT -7
I find the 66 is smoother when you crank it up. The Z-28 is b bit more gritty when cranked. The Z-28 has a sweeter clean sound like a Fender. Speaker choice really affect how both amps sound, more so then other amps I have owned. I agree with Mark's advice, "the Z-28 is a fantastic way to expand from the MAZ" I had a Maz 18nr 2x10 red fang combo and the Z-28 would be a better choice over the 66. How do you think a creamback pairs with the z 28? I also have 1 x 12 cabs with a Jansen nighthawk and an eminence wizard. I could change a green back into one, but have never bonded with them.
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Post by Jaguarguy (Mike) on Feb 25, 2017 20:16:25 GMT -7
While either would be a good 2nd Z, I agree the Z28 will probably give you the most versatility with the Maz.
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amv74
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Post by amv74 on Feb 25, 2017 20:33:57 GMT -7
While either would be a good 2nd Z, I agree the Z28 will probably give you the most versatility with the Maz. Thanks for the input. Was leaning that way but wanted some input from those more familiar with these amps.
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amv74
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Post by amv74 on Feb 25, 2017 21:56:50 GMT -7
Yes, they would! MAZ + Z-28 + Ghia = one righteous trio. Quick curve ball into my decision. A 25th anniversary Ghia just went up for sale. Unique in that it has a master control. 1 of 50, would you jump on that or stick with the z28. Just curious. The master would seem to be useful for my purposes
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Post by trojanhov on Feb 25, 2017 22:05:14 GMT -7
I've had a z-28 for about 4-5 years now. It's my only amp. It's that good. Great headroom, and with a brake lite u can drive it real good . I have it in a 1x10 format with a gold and it's great. I've had my eye on the maz 18 jr nr for a while and have considered trading the z-28, but I've never been in a rush to do it nor do I think I'd have to part ways. It's a great amp. The Ghias nice but I feel the z-28 would pair better with a maz
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amv74
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Post by amv74 on Feb 25, 2017 22:09:26 GMT -7
I've had a z-28 for about 4-5 years now. It's my only amp. It's that good. Great headroom, and with a brake lite u can drive it real good . I have it in a 1x10 format with a gold and it's great. I've had my eye on the maz 18 jr nr for a while and have considered trading the z-28, but I've never been in a rush to do it nor do I think I'd have to part ways. It's a great amp. The Ghias nice but I feel the z-28 would pair better with a maz I see you are a Gretsch guy. I love gretsches, I assume you like the z 28 with your Gretsch, what pups you have in it?
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Post by Jaguarguy (Mike) on Feb 26, 2017 8:49:20 GMT -7
I agree that the Z28 would give you more tonal variation - however .... - there were only 50 Anni's made. You always can find a Z28 however the Anni's don't come up that often. It's for sale here on the Forum as well. Send a note to Bryan0418 or check the BST part of the Forum (if you've been here long enough).
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Post by smolder on Feb 26, 2017 9:32:41 GMT -7
My three favorite Z amps. I ran the 66 and the 28 with golds mostly. The 66 was a tad darker. My maz has has an eminence has a red fang 10.
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amv74
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Post by amv74 on Feb 26, 2017 14:49:58 GMT -7
I agree that the Z28 would give you more tonal variation - however .... - there were only 50 Anni's made. You always can find a Z28 however the Anni's don't come up that often. It's for sale here on the Forum as well. Send a note to Bryan0418 or check the BST part of the Forum (if you've been here long enough). We worked out a deal for the anny, now selling gear to try and swing the z28. Guy will sell that to me for 900
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Post by Mark (Basement Enthusiast) on Feb 26, 2017 15:50:13 GMT -7
We worked out a deal for the anny, now selling gear to try and swing the z28. Guy will sell that to me for 900 Now, that's the way to do it! Many of us here have fallen for the "multiple Z-amps" thing just like you have. They're all worth it. Just like the Lay's potato chips—bet'cha can't eat just one!
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Post by Jaguarguy (Mike) on Feb 26, 2017 16:14:05 GMT -7
We worked out a deal for the anny, now selling gear to try and swing the z28. Guy will sell that to me for 900 Now, that's the way to do it! Many of us here have fallen for the "multiple Z-amps" thing just like you have. They're all worth it. Just like the Lay's potato chips—bet'cha can't eat just one! Yeah, I've got a "couple" of Zs ...
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amv74
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Post by amv74 on Feb 26, 2017 20:36:43 GMT -7
Now, that's the way to do it! Many of us here have fallen for the "multiple Z-amps" thing just like you have. They're all worth it. Just like the Lay's potato chips—bet'cha can't eat just one! Yeah, I've got a "couple" of Zs ... I just need you all to convince my wife!!! In reality I do need to sell off a few amps that I stopped using once I picked up my Nace amps, then the maz. Ironically, a guy I know had is gig amp wrecked last week so he needs one quick and on the cheap, so he is buying my blues deluxe reissue, that has gotten me close enough with another pedal sale that I could pull the trigger on both!!! Going to be a fun week for me. Mmmm, no I need....fill in the blank!!!
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Post by Jaguarguy (Mike) on Feb 27, 2017 8:13:32 GMT -7
Yeah, I've got a "couple" of Zs ... I just need you all to convince my wife!!! In reality I do need to sell off a few amps that I stopped using once I picked up my Nace amps, then the maz. Ironically, a guy I know had is gig amp wrecked last week so he needs one quick and on the cheap, so he is buying my blues deluxe reissue, that has gotten me close enough with another pedal sale that I could pull the trigger on both!!! Going to be a fun week for me. Mmmm, no I need....fill in the blank!!! Here's a pic of my man-cave if it will help convince your wife that you don't have too many amps
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amv74
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Post by amv74 on Feb 27, 2017 19:00:22 GMT -7
I just need you all to convince my wife!!! In reality I do need to sell off a few amps that I stopped using once I picked up my Nace amps, then the maz. Ironically, a guy I know had is gig amp wrecked last week so he needs one quick and on the cheap, so he is buying my blues deluxe reissue, that has gotten me close enough with another pedal sale that I could pull the trigger on both!!! Going to be a fun week for me. Mmmm, no I need....fill in the blank!!! Here's a pic of my man-cave if it will help convince your wife that you don't have too many amps Wow, that is scary impressive, makes my three look lonely!!! Does dr z have a buy 10 get one free punch card promo???
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amv74
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Post by amv74 on Feb 28, 2017 21:19:02 GMT -7
Got my Ghia today, haven't had a lot of time with it but seems to a lovely nastiness to it, digging it so far!!!
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