Post by Tony Ravenscroft on Dec 31, 2020 1:03:29 GMT -6
Back in the '90s, Crate Amplifiers had far too many models of small solid-state combo amplifiers. Probably to provide some differentiation, the decision was made to take a few of the better ones, and outfit them with superior speakers, giving the model number a suffix to highlight this. I have seen these with Celestion and Eminence, and there was at least one other vendor. The improved models had a small badge on the strip just below the left edge of the amplifier face, identifying the speaker brand. The badge was later stuck-on plastic (so could have fallen off; check for adhesive residue), earlier painted in.
A couple of years ago, I could not scan Crate combos anywhere without seeing a bunch of these. Now, they appear to have been hoovered up. Another factor might be that stores aren't fully aware of what they have, and don't feel motivated to list every dusty little non-tube Crate that gets tossed on their stoop. Be certain to keep your eyes open.
At this point -- subject to revision -- your best starting point would be the "G" series combos, model number at least 40, though most I've seen are the G-60 variants.
Please DO NOT trust the model number alone. There are many "-XL" with very stock Crate-branded cones, even a G-40CXL (so don't trust a "-C-") and a G-160XL (don't expect the high-end model to have high-end cones).
They definitely exist. I have a rat-fur G-60 with a Celestion, and badged. Here are siblings --
Extension cabinets might also be badged.
More fun --
A couple of years ago, I could not scan Crate combos anywhere without seeing a bunch of these. Now, they appear to have been hoovered up. Another factor might be that stores aren't fully aware of what they have, and don't feel motivated to list every dusty little non-tube Crate that gets tossed on their stoop. Be certain to keep your eyes open.
At this point -- subject to revision -- your best starting point would be the "G" series combos, model number at least 40, though most I've seen are the G-60 variants.
Please DO NOT trust the model number alone. There are many "-XL" with very stock Crate-branded cones, even a G-40CXL (so don't trust a "-C-") and a G-160XL (don't expect the high-end model to have high-end cones).
They definitely exist. I have a rat-fur G-60 with a Celestion, and badged. Here are siblings --
Extension cabinets might also be badged.
More fun --
