Author Topic: Crate Powerblock (Read 137 times)

george_wright · « **on:** March 01, 2006, 06:25:42 AM »

In another thread, the subject of the Crate Powerblock came up.

Looked interesting, so I checked the specs. Seems like Crate expects you to use either an eight-ohm cab or two four-ohm cabs.

Has anybody tried a Powerblock with a single four-ohm cab? If so, I'd like to hear about it. (I called the tech support number for SLM, got put on VRU hold, and finally figured out they were going to let me hold until they actually opened for the day's business.)

dean_m · « **Reply #1 on:** March 01, 2006, 06:37:07 PM »

Hey George,

I have tried the PowerBlock. Crate is the sister company to Ampeg in case no one knew that. It would probably work to get you out of a pinch but it's not really what I would call a bass amp. There's too much gain in the front end for it to sound good on bass. I suppose you could line directly into the power section without using the front end though. hmmmm I'll have to try that. Keep in mind that it is a 75wattx2 power section.
I hope this helps you in any way

crgaston · « **Reply #2 on:** March 01, 2006, 09:47:19 PM »

I am wondering if this is actually a misprint in the literature, since running 2 8-ohm cabinets would usually be the equivalent of 1 4-ohm. This definitely seems aimed at guitarists, too.

keith_h · « **Reply #3 on:** March 02, 2006, 07:18:43 AM »

Charles,
It isn't a misprint. Each stereo channel will handle a 4 ohm load. To get 150 watts they bridge both channels. This takes the minimum impedence the amp can handle up to 8 ohms. I agree that it appears to be meant for a guitar and not bass.

Keith

lbpesq · « **Reply #4 on:** March 02, 2006, 07:25:23 AM »

I'm using mine with my guitar. Considering the price, size, weight and sound, this is one fantastic backup amp for gigs.

Bill, tgo