Gallien-Krueger 800RB

The Gallien-Krueger 800RB is a groundbreaking bass amplifier head that has become a cornerstone of modern bass amplification. Known for its durability, innovative design, and signature 'GK growl,' it remains one of the most iconic bass amps in history.

History of the Gallien-Krueger 800RB

• Introduction (1982): The 800RB was launched in 1982 and quickly became a defining product for Gallien-Krueger. It was the first bass amp to feature bi-amp capabilities, allowing players to independently control high and low frequencies via separate power amps (100W for highs and 300W for lows). This innovation, along with its built-in DI output and removable AC cord, set a new standard for bass amplification.
• Design Features: The 800RB is a solid-state amplifier delivering clean, punchy tones with just enough grit to cut through mixes. It features a four-band active EQ, contour and presence controls, and separate gain knobs for the high- and low-end power amps. These features make it highly versatile, suitable for everything from deep, fat bass tones to sharp, aggressive sounds.
• Tonal Characteristics: The amp is celebrated for its clean and transparent tone with a dry 'growl' that provides clarity and punch. Its quick transient response makes it ideal for genres requiring precision, such as funk, rock, and metal.
• Legacy: The 800RB became an industry standard throughout the 1980s and beyond, used by countless touring bands and backline companies. Its influence can be seen in later Gallien-Krueger models like the 700RB and MB series. Even decades after its release, it remains highly sought after by bassists who value its reliability and unique tonal character.

Popular Settings

• Classic Rock:
  • Bass: Noon
  • Low-Mid: Slight boost (1 o'clock)
  • High-Mid: Noon
  • Treble: Slight cut (11 o'clock)
  • Contour off; Presence on.
  • Ideal for punchy yet warm tones.
• Funk/Slap Bass:
  • Bass: Boosted (2 o'clock)
  • Low-Mid: Slight cut (11 o'clock)
  • High-Mid: Boosted (1 o'clock)
  • Treble: Boosted (2 o'clock)
  • Contour on; Presence off.
  • Perfect for tight lows and crisp highs.
• Metal/Heavy Rock:
  • Bass: Noon or slightly boosted
  • Low-Mid: Boosted (1-2 o'clock)
  • High-Mid: Boosted (1-2 o'clock)
  • Treble: Noon
  • Contour off; Presence on.
  • Suited for aggressive growling tones.
• Clean Studio Tone:
  • Set EQ flat or slightly scooped mids.
  • Use DI output for direct recording.
  • Adjust crossover frequency to balance high/low outputs when bi-amping.

Notable Players

The Gallien-Krueger 800RB has been used by many legendary bassists across genres:

• Flea (Red Hot Chili Peppers): Known for his punchy slap tone, Flea relied on the 800RB during the band's early years.
• Duff McKagan (Guns N' Roses): Used the amp to craft his gritty rock tone on albums like Appetite for Destruction.
• Tom Hamilton (Aerosmith): Valued the amp's clarity and punch during live performances.
• Tony Kanal (No Doubt): Utilized the amp's bi-amp capabilities to achieve his distinct ska-punk sound.

Summary

The Gallien-Krueger 800RB remains a timeless amplifier celebrated for its innovative design, tonal versatility, and enduring legacy among professional bassists worldwide.