Product: Gibson GB440 Head
Price Paid: US $370
Submitted
11/02/2002
at
08:51pm
by
Mark David
Email: mark at placeplan<dot>com
Features
:
10
Solid state 400 watts@ 4 ohms. Built in early '90's. Same amp as the AMP BH420 designed by Steve Rabe(SWR) & Russ Allee(also designed the Eden amp)except with Gibson's name on it and with a couple of improvements. A variable Enhancer instead of push button and 20 more watts @ 8 ohms(240 watts vs 220 watts for the AMP). Also a new transformer is able to reduce rack height from 2.5 spaces to 2 spaces and reduce weight to 16 lbs. Handy factory gig bag with Gibson logo makes it very portable.
Sound Quality
:
10
I've owned just about every amp under the sun and this is one of the best. Very warm and the extremely versatile allows me to dial in just about any tone I need. It has the same EQ layout as the Eden and SWR's(same designers), but it doesn't seem to fight me like those amps do.
Reliability
:
10
These amps have a great history for reliabilty.
Customer Support
:
No Opinion
This amp was discontinued 10 years ago.
Overall Rating
:
10
The Gibson GB-440 and the AMP BH-420 were not a big hit in their day probably due to poor marketing, but years later they are being recognized as a truly great amp. I've owned every high end amp there is and this one is for real. Plenty of power, versatile, warm tone, and portable. What more could you ask for? I've seen them used for as little as $200. I bought 2 of these for $370 each NOS on eBay. Just like brand new! If you can find a used Gibson or AMP, buy it! You won't be sorry.
