Carvin X100B

I have modified my amp since my last review. It has two channels, clean and overdrive. 20db hot rod boost on the overdrive, five pre amp eq, 25/50/100 watt switch, 4/8/16 ohm switch, xlr preamp output, effect loop, reverb and tolex cover. I believe mines was made in the early 90s. I wish it had a headphone jack and two separate indiviual channels instead of sharing the control knobs. The clean is very loud and the overdrive has the 80s hard rock sound. You can get early Metallica scoop tones by adjusting the preamp eq. The best thing about this amp is you get very clean fender sound and a modified Marshall JCM 800 plexi crunch. This amp is straight forward and idiot proof. This was Carvin's top of line flag ship for a long time.

I had my amp modified. It is biased to 160ma which is the sweet spot for this amp. I recently had JJ E34Ls but switched to JJ KT77s. My preamp tubes are the high gain JJ Ecc83s. I am running a Legacy 2x12 cab loaded with Celestion Vin30 and a Carvin 2x12 Cab loaded with Carvin GT-12 (OEM from Eminence). I get the mids and highs from the Legacy cab and the lows from the Carvin GT-12. The KT77s made this amp into a fire breathing monster. The overdrive is very think, round, fuller and balsy crunch. The sustain is nothing short of amazing! It gets better when you turn up the amp. With the E34Ls, it gets a bit harsh on the highs. The KT77s does not do that and screams to be played. It is absolute tone heaven! The clean channel is very loud and thick with a lot of headroom. It will not distort. It out cleans a fender and out crunches a Marshall. This amp can do anything (yes even country) except nu metal. But you know, it was not design for that. Classic rock (50s, 60s, 70s) and 80s metal is where it shines. If you want nu metal, just plug a Boss Metal Zone 2 through the clean channel and it will be out for blood.

It also helps that I am using a Epiphone Les Paul Standard loaded with a genuine Bill Lawrence (from Bill and Becky at www.billlawrence.com) L500L on the bridge and a Dimarzio Air Norton on the neck. The L500L makes the amp sound like it is on steriod. Single coil pickups also sound fatterI got the tubes from Bob at Eurotubes. He is a great guy and his service and knowledge is first rate. If any Carvin X100B (EL34 power tubes version) owners want more out of their amp, I suggest loading them with KT77s and bias the amp to 160ma. I had to use a tube screamer to give a bit more edge on the overdrive when I was using the JJ E34Ls. With the KT77s, no boast needed. I am speechless on the transformation of this amp. I found my tone.

Last thing, you cannot hide your sloppines on this amp. You have to play clean or else it will amplify your mistakes and slap you silly.

This amp has been a trooper. I got it last year and it has never broken down on my. Plus this amp is built like a tank.

I never had to deal with Carvin. I have dealt with them on different issues and they have been always been very good.

I have been playing for over 25 years. I have always wanted this amp since I played one in 1988. I was at the Hollywood Carvin Store last summer and I told the salesman that I had a Carvin X100B. He wanted to hear one since he had not heard on in quite a while. I brought my amp the next weekend. He plugged the amp to the Legacy full stack and played a Carvin CT6 and Contour 66. He was amazed at the tone. He could not believe how responsive it was to his picking style. He told me that his Carvin MTS 3200 was not that responsive compared to mine. He also said this was the best sounding X100B he has ever heard. He was completely in awe with my amp. It was loaded with JJ E34Ls back then, he would be blown away with the KT77s.

I would be sad if I lose this amp. I absolutely love this amp and would not trade nor sell it for the world. I would definately get it again.

Price paid: $350 used.

Features: 9

100-Watt tube head, 80's, tolex covered, 3ea 12AX 7's, 4ea 6L6's, 5-band EQ, 100/60 W power switch, 4 or 8 ohm to speakers, original footswitch.




Older version, Tolex covering, 4 6L6"s
100 & 50W switch
Original footswitch, equalizer

I play Jacksons with Seymour Duncans--pearly gates, and have two custom builts with Seymour Duncans--Custom Custom & a 59. Quite literally, there is a ton of sound from these amps. When I received it used, it came with 6L6 Groove tubes. I have since changed the pre-amps out to a G.E 12AX7A white label, and 2ea 1960 RCA 12AX7's. I dumped the Groove tubes in favor of new Tung Sol 5881's and put a double set of tube dampers on all the tubes. I've owned a Fender Showman, Crate Blue Voodoo, and a new Marshall 100. They aren't even in the same class as the Carvin. I admit the tube changes really woke the amp up, but even with the Groove tubes it still rocked.

Absolutely not problem 1.

Never dealt with Carvin. If I have a problem, I have a great Amp tech I can take it to.

I've been playing 20+ years. If It were ever stolen, I would not even hesitate to buy another.

Gray Ozite carpet covering which leads me to believe it is a late 80's/early 90's version.

The black tolex version has 6L6 power tubes (cleaner) while the Ozite versions have EL34 power tubes (sooner break up, very middy).

The most attractive feature - the 5 band EQ is extremely sensitive and with some experimenting/tweaking can give you quite a wide range of tonal palettes. All the tone controls work together.

This is a two channel amp, though the distortion and clean channels both have push/pull knobs that will drastically change the sound. This is a great feature though it is too much of a hassle to mess around with them when playing live. An impressive variety of sounds nonetheless.

I have all Jackson/Ibanez guitars with either Duncan or DiMarzio p/ups. These are all very hot p/ups so it helps a great deal. I play this through its matching Carvin 4x12. I put JJ EL34's in the power amp, JJ ECC83's in the preamp, otherwise comes standard with Groove Tubes.

While this amp can produce massive WALLS of tone that really hit you in the chest, it simply will not give you a scooped high gain sound that can cut through enough to make a difference in the live situation. This is a moderate gain midrange amplifier well suited to hard rock and 80's metal. I play 80's metal with a bit of classic rock and heavier metal. It absolutely shines in the first two categories - extremely clear sounding and has a great "chunk" to it. I would say avoid this amp if you want a scooped/high gain sound because again, the amount of distortion while very distinct and clear, loses that "cut" when you scoop the mids. But if you're willing to accept the fact that 90% of tone comes from your fingers and the midrange frequencies, you will be delighted.

I haven't even mentioned the clean tone yet! I remember first powering this up, and thinking how amazing that clean tone sounded...but once you pull the "Bright Switch" - incredible! It is almost as awe-inspiring as the distortion, just so much to work with on this gem.

Rhythm/Clean Tone: Warm, bassy, very versatile.
Bright Clean Tone: Crystal clear, Fenderish.
Distortion A (un-hotrodded): Punchy and articulate. Think AC/DC and Led Zeppelin here. Underrated!
Distortion B (hotrod switch engaged): Very unique to my ears. It's like Gumby - you can shape it any way you see fit! Moderate distortion sound elevated by the incredibly sensitive tone controls. Superb.

Solid.

I have been playing for seven years, I own various Line 6 goodies and a 60w Peavey Solid State. This amp is a tone monster - incredibly versatile, clear, tight - defined. It has become a hot item on Ebay and rightfully so. The best of both worlds - easily manipulated distortion and beautiful, singing clean channel(s).

Not best suited for certain types of metal, but for those who are patient and have possibly had more experience with different amplifiers, you should definitely appreciate what this amp has to offer.

This is an early 80's model. Tolex w/ script logo. Same features as everyone else described. Active eq is a bit tricky. Your typical settings won't work on this amp. Keep and open mind. Mine does have the FS-36 three button footswitch(which comes in very handy). My old one did not, but I just used the overdrive channel anyway.

I use an LTD MH-400NT through an avatar 2x12, closed back w/ vintage 30s. It has one of THE BEST cleans I've ever heard. It's perfect. Doesn't break up, very pick-sensitive and dynamic. The gain channel leaves much to be desired. I had a gray carpeted one, and that has el34's, this has 6l6's. I preferred the stock distortion tone on the gray one much better. The reverb is luscious and warm. There's more than enough on tap, too. The distortion channel though, it can be flubby. You can tighten it up w/ the graphic e.q., but there's just not enough bite. I don't use tons of gain, but it seems to be an issue w/ the "shape" of the distorion rather than the amount on this guy. BUT, I just bought an MXR Zakk Wylde overdrive, and with the overdrive, the gain channel get's a 15. But I'm not reviewing that here, just the amp itself. So, perfect clean - moderately ok distortion = 8.

My gray one had the same tubes in it for about a year and I played it loud and hard. Not so much as a hiccup from either of these. Based on my experience w/ them, they are very solid. I'd gig w/ out backup. It sounds crazy, but I've already done it before.

Ok, taking into consideration that Carvin hasn't made this amp or any variation of it for a little over ten years, I'd say they do a stellar job w/ customer support. E-mails get answered by real people, w/ real solutions. I needed help locating a footswitch for my old one. They e-mailed me back the next day with schematics to convert their currently-produced 2 button into a 3 button. All manuals are available online.

I've been playing guitar for over ten years. I have a pod 2.0, an epiphone flying v, LTD MH-400NT, a Gibson ES-125, a Peavey Raptor 1, this amp, an Ovation Celebrity, and a handful of pedals. I would buy another one again. The price is always right. They don't seem to be affected by post-mortem inflation a la the Sovtek line. 300 bucks for a great tube clean, and a o.d. that's easily made awesome by a pedal. Can't beat it. I ALMOST bought a Sovtek Mig because I was unhappy w/ the distortion on this, but I stumbled upon the Zakk o.d. on my lunch break, and took a chance. Now I have the perfect setup! Lucky I got outbid! I wish it had another e.q., or really, just more bands on the graphic. I've owned at one time or another a Marshall DSL 100, a Peavey VTM 60, A Carvin X-100b(gray and black), A Peavey 5150 combo, a Sovtek Mig 30, a sprinkling of solid-state practice amps, and the Carvin is the best bang for buck HANDS DOWN. I've tried numerous Rectum-friers and other amps, and you can't beat this deal.

Mine is a Script Logo, 6L6 equipped 1987 model. This was the last year before the EL34/preamp switch, which happened in 1988.

Its got 2 channels, an absolutely brilliant clean and a lightly toasted overdrive channel. Button 1 on the footswitch switches clean to dirty channel.

Its got an effects loop, button 2 on the footswitch turns the FX loop on and off.

Its also got a brilliant Accoutronics reverb system. Really really lush. Some reverbs leave you thinkin "man, I wish I had more reverb, I can barely hear this" But this reverb is all you could want and more at about "5". Pretty cool. You can always let off if you got too much, but you aint got nothin if you dont have enough.

Its got a Graphic EQ as well, which is an interesting feature. I dont personally use it, but I ain't gonna count that against it. Some people may think its great. I just leave the sliders at the middle, and it wont effect the tone.

Its 100watts of mean 6L6 power, its loud as hell, and I do think its more than sufficiently powerful for any application you can imagine.

I use some old Ibanez RG550's and other guitars with Basswood bodies, HSH Dimarzio pickups, and Edge/Floyd roses. Yup. . .80's guitars. I play mostly 80's songs with my 80's guitars. Yeah, a PRS may have more "tonal teeth" and crunch, but that aint really what im lookin for.

Im looking for incredible smooth, clear, defined lead tones. Mesa Boogies are too fat sounding, too preamp gainy for me, I get lost in the mud of it all. Marshalls are harsh and not suited for lead tones, althought they posess a mighty crunch. A Carvin Legacy is a REALLY nice amp, but Im slighly opposed to the very dark nature of the midrange. Very smooth, very close to what im looking for, but I like a bright sounding amp. Not piercing, just a bright midrange.

Its very quiet. Its been said many times, but other than the regular AC hum that most amps make, its got none of the "gain hiss" and stuff like that. Mainly because of the gain structure. It doesnt have a ton of gain, its more than a marshall, and has better sustain the a marshall for sure, but its not gobs of drippy overdrive. Its a very nice, bright, warm, balanced smooth overdrive tone, with a very nice breakup. VERY organic and pure sounding.

The clean tone is absolutely brilliant, snappy, punchy, and detailed. I love it.

I'm totally in love with this amp. Matched with a tubescreamer, it sounds great and has enough gain for anything I want to do with it. Its got the clarity and the overdrive is just about PERFECT for me. Ive finally found peace with my tone, after playing amp after amp, and Ive played a TON of high end amps, Diezels, Bogners, VHTs, Soldanos, Matchless, you name it. Lots of Marshalls and Mesas, some Oranges (I love these things, VERY cool. and . . FREAKIN ORANGE!), Fenders, Line6 (*vomits* how do these things actually SELL? I dont understand it), Crate. The only other amp Ive ever played that is as cool as this amp is my 1985 Laney AOR Pro Tube Lead 100. Damn, THAT is how a Marshall is SUPPOSED to sound. Its my "rhythm" amp, since it has a monster, Deep, Bassy, Bright and clear EL34 crunch. DAMN, Im not biased here, it just sounds so much better than a JCM 2000 or 900, or even a split channel 800. The Carvin is a bit better for lead tones, due to the 6L6's rounded tone (not somewhat "scouped" sounding like EL34's) and the gain is clear, controllable, and sustains really really nicely. Both of my DREAM AMPs can be had for like $400 all day off ebay. That. . .is incredible. Its very nice knowing that my dream amp doesnt mean dropping $4000 on a Diezel (which. . .are pretty damn nice amps.)

I can see how alot of people are dissatisfied with the dirty channel. Its not your average tone. Some people want that fat Mesa tone. Those people simply wont be happy with this amp. If your looking for a crazy-thick gain monster, if your looking for modern tones, then you will be dissapointed with a Carvin X100B. But. . there are some, like me, who dont care much for the Mesa tone, and like old Marshalls and Oranges but wish there was a better option out there for a lead tone, then you will probably dig this amp.

If anything, its worth it for the clean tones.

The circuit is mounted on a PC board. But, so are most amps now, and only a few can tell a difference between Point-to-Point and PC board wiring.

Like anything, its completely reliable if you dont abuse it. Dont leave it in the Van to freeze overnight, bring it in the house. Thats hard on any amp, not just Carvin X100Bs. Dont run it without a speaker cabinet running. Let the tubes warm up in standby. Retube it every 2 years or so. Common sense. Sometimes, electronics WILL fail, even if nothing is abused, but thats just the nature of electronics. Nothing is 100% bulletproof, regardless of how its advertised.

Warrenty? uh. . .yeah. . .that expired in 1988 I think :)

Doesn't matter, Customer Support is very easy to reach. I posted some questions on the Carvin board and got some good help. Lots of good info.

I bought the Head, 4x12 matchin Carvin cab with Celestion speakers, original Footswitch, and original Manuals/Warrenty cards, all in MINT condition, for $700 off ebay.

Ive been playing for about 3-4 years. Not that long compared to some people, but Ive owned my share of tube amps and had my share of tube amp experiences.

If it were stolen. . .well. . .that would suck. I'd just save up another $400 bucks and score a replacement off ebay. Can't complain about that. Cant say the same about a Bogner or Diezel, they dont get replaced so easy. . .hehe. Lost? . .ain't gonna happen. It aint gonna fall into the carpet and dissapear, and its not gonna run away. Im not gonna ever leave it somewhere unattended, so. . .yeah nothing to worry about.

I did a bunch of research on these amps using Harmony Central, Ive read these reviews a thousand times trying to figure out what this thing sounds like. I actually NEVER played the amp before I bought it, I was desperate and took a shot in the dark, and TOTALLY nailed the target. This thing is great, plain and simple. Im so glad I took the chance. It was just about exactly what I thought it would be.

Man, I can now forget about finding "the TONE" and start planning out my next guitar purchases. . .YES!

Don'know year other than after 1998. Bought used, sounds great with a friends marshall 1/2stack.Ordered carvin cab 18 days ago Still han't been shipped. Don't know how this will sound with Celestions.Carvin's quick service is a TOTAL joke I've called them three times and they only say we'll get it out so can'tsay how this works with their own speakers.

See Above.

See Above.

Lousy, Lousy, Lousy. See above.

Will rate amp with Carvin cab if I ever receive it in the future.

This amp is fairly versatile for a two channel amp. Its an early 90's model with el34s. It has a switch for 25, 50, or 100 watts which is great for getting the power tube saturation at lower volumes. the effects loop also has a 3 way level select that allows -10, 0, +4 db settings, so you can use rack and pedal effects. The footswitch has channel, effects loop, and reverb switches. There is a five band graphic eq that is switchable for either the rhythm or lead channels. I wish there was a setting for both because the clean sounds awsome with the eq, but the lead channel isnt good at all without it. Both channels share the 3 band eq and the switchable 5 band works ontop of that. There is no Master volume so when chaning volumes drastically check the balance between channels a few times to make sure its right. Even though it could have these features the amp is still extremely versatile, but it is not a "plug and Play" amp, the controls are really sensitive.

I use a Parker Fly deluxe, an Esp h-1000, and a Les Paul studio with p-94s, and they all sound great. This amp is very versatile if you take the time to tinker with it. The clean channel is amazing, very fender like with Great reverb.It breaks up slightly at high volumes. The distortion is kinda like a modded jcm800, but with its own tone. This CArvin sounds like a carvin, not a replica of anything else. with the eq right and the hot rod switch on this thing can do metal, although the gain isnt as high as most would like, but it is extremely clear and defined, no muddiness. I play through a peavey 4x12 and the sound is very tight and bassy, with a marshall 4x12 but you would lose the tight bass. Great amp for blues and classic rock, it can handle low gain metal but it really isnt designed for it.

This amp is built tough, carvin stuff is always built like a tank. I havent had any problems with it. But I havent owned it long enough to see how years of gigging will treat it.

Never dealt with them.

For the money you can pick these up for used, the sound quality i phenominal, there is no other tube amp this cheap that will sound nearly this good. I play in a cover band that does everything from Lynyrd Skynyrd, to Black Sabbath , to Rage Against the Machine. This amp can handle it all, although since there's only two channels, you have to tweak the knobs to get all these sounds, which is not pratical on stage, plus I could use more gain for some of the metal stuff, so im in the market for a Diezel VH4. But for the money you cant beat this amp.

1984 6L6GC-based model. "Rhythm" and "Lead" channels, effects loop, switchable between 4-8-16ohms, graphic EQ assignable to lead or rhythm channel, reverb, multi-function 3-button footswitch (luckily mine came with the original hard to find footswitch, this thing is a tank!), 25%/50%/100% power switch, 3-pin line out, instrument and line-level inputs. 100 watts from 4 JJ Tesla 6L6GCs and three JJ Tesla 12AX7s (balanced V3 for phase inverter).

I use this amp with a 2005 Carvin CT3M, a 1963 Gibson SG Jr., a 1975 Les Paul Standard and a 1978 Gibson SG Standard. I am using this amp with a vintage reissue Marshall cab with 25 Watt Greenback Celestions. I play punk/hardcore in the DC vein although I am not limited to this style of music, the X100B can cover everything I do fairly well, but not entirely. This amp has very little noise at any volume level, it is as quiet as a JMP or JCM 800 Marshall. The clean channel on this amp is remarkable, as good as a black face era Fender Twin or Super Reverb. It loves single coils more than humbuckers in this mode and can be pushed into Fender like overdrive above "3" with humbuckers, which is also very nice and usable. The lead channel on the other hand...not so good. I have used Marshalls pretty much exclusively since 1982 (JMP, JCM 800, Silver Anniversary and JCM Slash) and I am spoiled. The lead channel on the X100B in it's normal state (no graphic eq or pull bright engaged) is a muddy mess. It sounds like a broken Rat distortion pedal, ugly...But, once you engage the pull bright switch and graphic eq it changes the character enormously. You can get a pretty convincing crunch with the gain set between 8 and 10, lower gain settings are okay but not great. The lead channel prefers humbuckers but can do justice to a P90 equipped guitar as well. The X100B does not sound like a Marshall, Boogie or Fender in the lead channel, it sounds entirely like itself, which is not bad, it just isn't very good either. The clean channel is great and does justice to any pedal (distortion or time delay) put in front of it. The reverb is also perfect sounding, as good as any vintage Fender reverb I have ever heard, it completely enhances either channel.

This version of the X100B is built like a tank, my amp is over 20 years old and the original owner (I am only the second owner!) lovingly maintained the amp. It came to me with a full Eurotubes retube and fresh rebiasing and performed perfectly out of the box. I am sure I could gig without a backup with no trouble at all.

I have only had to deal with Carvin when I bought my CT3M guitar this year and they were...okay. Not awful, not brilliant, just okay. I did not encounter some of the horror stories others have but, although the reps I talked to were very nice, the company dropped the ball several times getting my guitar to me, which has made me a tad gunshy with them. As far as them dealing with one of their used vintage amps, we'll have to see. I doubt I would ever send it to them for repairs, I have a first rate tech here in DC so I have no need for Carvin in this respect.

I have been playing in the DC punk scene since 1980 as a member of Minor Threat, Government Issue, Dag Nasty and many others. If this amp were lost I would probably not replace it, I would probably buy one of Carvin's MTS Tube amps, the clean is a good as the X100B and the distortion is much better. I love the clean sound and reverb on this amp and can make do with the lead channel. The clean compares to Fender but the lead is it's own beast and only an okay one at that. I bought this amp after reading much about it over the years and wanting to get something to replace my vintage Marshalls in my live setup. This may do the trick, it's hard to tell. For the money this amp is hard to beat, especially considering how expensive and lousy sounding most modern tube amps are!

Early 90's carpeted version, with EL34's. Two channel head, clean and lead, with a hot-rod distortion available with the flip of a switch - it's too bad you can't do this with the footswitch, but it's not a huge deal. It has 5 band assignable graphic EQ, which will either eat it alive or be put to use via very subtle adjustments. This is really the key to getting what you want out of the amp. Very minute adjustments will alter the sound completely, if you cut any of the frequencies you will end up with a bit of a compressed sound that will detract definition from rhythm playing. It's really all about balancing out the bass and treble frequencies between whatever channel you are using this on versus the one you are not. From there you have a wealth of instantly attainable tones via the mid frequencies.

This amp is just about the loudest one I have ever heard. Anything past 2 is earth-rumbling! But, it never loses it's character, in fact...it sounds even better the harder you push it (tubes!!!).

I play Jacksons exclusively - an SL4 which has Seymour Duncans, and two PS4's which I installed DiMarzio Evolutions in the bridge and Duncan PAF-Pros in the neck. I play it through a Behringer 4x12 with Jenson 30's.

When playing through the hot-rod distortion channel, this amp does not need a distortion pedal. If you play through it, try it out, and still honestly think you need a distortion pedal, look elsewhere - these people do not have the patience required to turn some freaking knobs. The majority of what I play is 80's metal and classic rock, and this amp was made for it. We also do heavier stuff like Dio, Iron Maiden, Metallica, Megadeth, Pantera - with some fiddling around I can get anything I want out of this amp. The distortion and low-end can be absolutely massive, when needed. As I said before, the key to getting what you want out of this head is in the two middle frequencies on the 5-band EQ.

Crank this bad boy up, hit a power chord and feel the rock and roll pouring out of your speakers. This is it for me. No matter what sound I can manage to squeeze out of the amp, it still sounds remarkably...well, itself! Very distinct sound, and one I never get sick of.

The clean tone is remarkable by itself (make sure to pull the Brite switch!!!), but add some reverb and chorus...this is what clean tones were meant to sound like!

The un-hot-rodded distortion is something I unfortunately don't use too much, since the majority of what my band plays is pretty heavy. It is a terrific crunch sound, perfect for classic rock, mostly rhythm . Could make a great blues/rock sound, too, especially for leads.

I've had it for a few months, it was used, so I had a pro take a look at it - all it needed then was a general tune up, the tubes tested fine and they're still in there. We're not sure, but think they're the original Groove Tubes that came with it - I'm not much of a tube expert, but then again I play with my fingers, not my tubes! ;)

I've been playing for 10 years and this Carvin was my introduction to tubes. It has such a rich, lush, full, organic sound. Hit a note and just wait with confidence for that beautiful feedback to swell up. I've played it next to Marshalls, stock and modded, a 5150, an old VMT head...maybe I'm just stubborn but I am simply in love with the sound this amp provides me. I'm happy with the setup I have now, but I can't imagine how much better it will sound with "better" tubes, and more especially...a much better cab.

This amp really IS a sleeper. I hope this one lasts. From what I've heard, it will. The only pedals I use are an Arion SCH-1 chorus, and an MXR Micro Amp for lead boosts. This was an incredible find, you really can't beat it for the money. I'd take one over a Marshall, modified or not any day of the week.

1988 6L6GC-based model. "Rhythm" and "Lead" channels, effects loop, switchable between 4-8-16ohms, graphic EQ assignable to lead or rhythm channel, reverb, multi-function 3-button footswitch (I don't have one yet), 25%/50%/100% power switch, 3-pin line out, instrument and line-level inputs. 100 watts from 4x 6L6GC power tubes, 2x 12AX7 pre tubes, 12AT7 PI tube. Big and heavy!

Purchased this used for an unbelieveable $280 plus shipping. Thanks goodness everyone's sleeping on this amp - it's a great sounding 100-watt tube amp available for peanuts as a write this.

Using it with two S-73s (SG-style) with GFS Fat PAF humbuckers, and a custom made (by a friend) bubinga/zebrawood (Strat-scale) guitar with a neck single-coil and bridge filtertron-style. Mostly play the S-73s...

Running it into a 2x12 loaded with Eminence Wizards, but I've also litened to it through Emi's Stonehenge and Blue Tick Hound speakers.

I guess I would call my style progressive, as I'm all over the place, and tend to write music that is a blend of styles. Not currently gigging, but have done loads in the past.

First off, the cleans from this amp are the best I've ever experienced first-hand, even better than the Twin I used to gig with. Sweet, sparkling-clean, with plenty of definition adn character. The kick-ass Wizards certainly don't hurt anything. ;)

The reverb is also really nice, and the tone controls/graphic EQ are well-designed and useful.

The overdrive is nasty, but in a good way! Would not be my staple overdrive sound, as it's not articulate enough when palm-muting, but a huge tone nonetheless that I can't imagine getting from a pedal. I also have a TS-9/Keeley Plus Mod, and a Line 6 UberMetal for different OD'd sounds, giving me three very nice options.

Seems to love my pedals. 8^)

Reputed to be reliable, but no marks as it's a new (used, obviously) purchase for me.

Never dealt with them.

This is a sleeper. Unbelievable cleans, great reverb, and very usefull OD tones, in one large, heavy package. If anyone reading this needs a great-sounding and powerful head on the cheap, look no further...

1989 or later X100-B carpeted amp head. The carpeted version, with the more modern Carvin logo became available in 1989. I used to use a Carvin VT2800 100 watt all tube head and 2 4X12 VHT cabinets with Celestion greenbacks in the late 70's, so I was happy to buy Carvin again. The X100-B sounds MUCH better than the old VT2800 though. All the features are listed already, so I won't waste my typing and your time. I run this head through a matching Carvin 4X12 slanted cab with Carvin British speakers (though I'm planning to replace them with Celestion greenback reissues) and it sounds great!

I play a Jackson SL1, a Danelectro reissue DC3, and a recently-purchased Agile doubleneck. I play classic rock, Zeppelin, old Stones, some Queen, etc, and the sounds the amp makes are awesome.

Haven't had it long enough to tell, but it's been around for 16 or so years so its gotta be OK.

No Opinion, not applicable.

Played guitar for over 30 years, used to play spro in the 70's and 80's

Bought w/ matching 412 Cab. Made in the 80's. Fully tube, 2 inputs, effects loop, rythm/lead switch, bright switch, standby, 5 band fine tuning eq for overdrive channel. Has 2 channels, however the overdrive has a high/low overdrive switch which is awesome. Basically makes it a 3 channel. Mine didn't come with a footswitch so I just made one. Email them and they'll give you the circuit diagram. I've played this amp in punk, metal, indie, emo, and even church. Comes in a cool fuzzy material. Main problem: weighs a ton. Go to www.carvinmuseum.com if you really want to know all the bells and whistles.

This is the best part! So smooth and clean. This amp is so versatile as far as sounds go. If you want to super dirty metal, slightly overdriven vintage sounding, or just want nice clean tone this amp will do it. This amp is much more versatile than the newer ones I think. The other guitarist has a newer one and his only does clean and metal crunch. As far as volume goes... more than you need. I've played through an Ibanez RG, Fender Strat, and Gibson SG. Never heard a bad sound out of this amp.

Incredible. I bought mine about 5 years ago used and it has never given me a problem. I've dragged it around everywhere, it's been banged around in my car and still rocks like a champ. I will hopefully have this thing for the rest of my life.

The only time I ever contacted them was about the footswitch. They emailed me back within a day and told me what to do. However this isn't enough to give a full rating. But I'd assume they're very good.

This amp was an incredible steal. I would highly recommend this amp to anyone for almost any application. It is built like a tank, sounds like heaven, and looks cool while doing it. This was one of the best purchases I've ever made. The only problem is the weight. Weighs a freaking ton. So if you're old and have a geo metro, buy something else. Other than that, grab one if you see one.

This is an update on my earlier review. Run it at full power. It doesn't sound as good at 50% power. 25% is unusable.

I put in some Yellowjackets. This improved the sound a great deal. However, another problem with this amp is the active tone controls, I feel. All the frequency peaks are squared off, it gives the amp a boxy sound. I would say avoid engaging the hot rod pot. It increases the volume, but at the expense of tone, (again boxiness). There is a living, breathing, tube amp under there somewhere, but the diodes, graphic EQ, hot rod circuit and active tone controls have smothered it. It's like trying to make love to a woman who's wearing a football uniform. That said, does anyone know of any mods to unclutter the signal path?

Behaves well, like a child on Ritalin.

Hadn't had enough experience with good tube amps to get help when the amp was still in production.

If you get your sound from pedals and rackmounts, then this amp is probably good for you. The naked, distorted tone is less than satisfying. The reverb is excellent, but is wasted on an adequate amp. Yellowjackets make it sound good, not great, because of the amp's circuitry. It's a cheap way to get into a halfstack. I would rate it higher than a Crate, but I think the new Yorkville tube amps would be a better way to go.

Late-80s head with EL34 power tubes. 100/50/25 watts. More than enough power. I can't believe some guy here said the 100-watt setting wasn't enough (can you say bullshit?).

Tons of features. I won't list them all, carvinmuseum.com has it all documented well, plus this page pretty much has it all listed.

9 rating because there's amps now with three channels which is probably ideal. For me, this amp has it all though. Where was this amp back in the day?

Great clean sound. Awesome reverb. Lead channel smokes - tone for days. Compares to Boogie in terms of overdrive/distortion. I just played a Stiletto in a shop a few weeks ago, and the Carvin sounds damn close. However, I'm going by memory, not the old side by side A-B trick. The overdrive sounds like my old JCM800 but only when I used a Tube King pedal. Even then I needed a Hush pedal to quiet it all down. The Carvin is quiet and gainy - amazing. I don't know if it's the EL34s or what, but this thing is warm, clear, and hot-freaking-rodded. Perhaps this version blows away the one with 6L6 power tubes? Do your research if you're buying one of these as to which power tubes will work for you better.

My take is, Vai loved this amp, and Carvin basically re-packaged it up as the Legacy (which also comes standard with EL34s) and put a bigger price tag on it. Given the how finicky Vai seems to be (he made his tech dig a pickup out of a dumpster for Christ's sake, and could pick his Jem out of a lineup from 20 paces away), I believe the rumors that he still uses it behind a wall of Legacies.

Haven't had it long enough, but it's built like a tank, and there's really not much to it in terms of things that can go wrong, unless I have the ohms set wrong or something, but then it'd be my fault.

This amp isn't made anymore, so I'd take it to a local shop if it broke.

Been playing 16 years. Metal mostly. Jazz and blues more recently, but I still love to make up thrash riffs. It really helps if you have a killer tone. I'd get this again - same version with the EL34s. Wish I had the footswitch. Now I'm on the hunt.

My advice - if you can get one for around $350-$375, go for it.

This amp was made between 1988 - 1993. Mines as the carpet covering. It has two channels: Overdrive and clean. Pull the lead volume and you get 20db boost. Pull the Rhythm volume and you get a bright sound just like the Fender tube amp. It also has a preamp output and effects loop. No headphone jack. It is 100 watt amp but can be push to 225 watts. It also has a 25%, 50%, 100% power switch and 4, 8, 16 ohm speaker switch. Five band preamp eq and two power transformers (heavy to lug around). The tubes are four Groove Tube EL34s and three 12ax7s. This sucker is loud and it's a tone monster! I love the versatility of this amp. When I was in college, my friends and I were searching for a good amp and found the Boogie Mark III. The problem was it was too expensive. We sample all sorts of amp but found the Mesa the best. Well we found Carvin across the street from Guitar Center in LA. We flipped because this amp sounded great! It was very close to the Mesa Boogie but without the Mesa price. I was heartbroken when Carvin discontinued this amp in 1994. Well I always wanted this amp and now I got it.

I love the clean and the distortion. I am into the 80s sound and this amp nails it. My friend has a 5150 head and loves my Carvin. It doesn't have the brutal distortion that the 5150 has, but it is more versatile. My clean channel blows away the 5150. If I want more distortion, I would use my Boss Metal Zone MT2 petal through the clean channel or use my Tube Screamer with the overdrive. The sound is simply amazing. This amp will bring out your limitation if you're a sloppy player. The natural overdrive is very warm, creamy and has bite and defination while the clean has lots of warmth and sparkle. The reverb is very good while the 5150 has none. You can go from Fender clean to modified Marshall. Again, this amp is very loud. I just love this amp! Too bad Carvin no longer makes them. This amp was their flagship amp for many years. I hope they would release a reissue someday.

I just got this amp two weeks ago and so far no problems. This amp is built like a tank.

I have not dealt with Carvin. From the reviews from other Carvin owners, they are very good.

I have been playing for 20 years. I wanted this amp since 1988 and now I have it. I would be heartbroken if I ever lose it and I would definately buy this amp again. This amp is the best kept secret in 80s (still is today) because it was so inexpensive. I have compared it with my friends 5150 and my Fender Hot Rod Deluxe. This amp gives you the best of both worlds (Modified Marshall and Fender Clean). It is clean and has good distortion. If you want a versitile amp and if you love tone, get this amp! It is very hard to get a bad sound out of this amp. You can never get muddy sounds. It will make a bad guitar sound like a tone monster.

OK,
Alot of people are whining about the lack of gain and sustain, so I'll make this real easy.
If you are playing metal, get a good overdrive pedal.

There is no way of telling when these amps were made, regardless of the serial number.
I've had several carvin techs relay that to me.

Unless it has the updated logo('88), or is carpeted, you are stuck guessing!

It came with the original groove tubes 6l6GC's and 12Ax7's, but it was running super cold, so I had some ULTRA hot JJ 6l6's thrown in, and EC883's, to bring up the plate voltage pull.

I picked this amp up used from guitar center, IN MINT CONDITION!!!
They said they didn't have the footswitch, and I was out of luck.

I went back a week later and asked one of the older guys, and 10 minutes later, he walked up with the original footswitch!!!

Talk about luck!

The bias on my amp is non-adjustable (fixed), but they came both ways.
I wish I could get just a tiny bit more pull, but I am super satisfied with what I have!

Super hot matched JJ's will get you very close to the heat and distortion you are seeking.

I play an esp dv8, with a duncan dimebucker dropped in the bridge, fed to an MXR Zakk Wylde pedal, chained to a boss noise gate.

This amp is what that pedal was made for!
It brings out so much clarity and tight, punchy attack, that it'll sound like you have a different amp.

Standing alone, without my pedal, the gain is moderate.
Good for hard rock and some edgy applications, but not for the style of metal that I play.

The clean channel is definitely smooth and silky, and wakes up with a little reverb and some added chorus.

Once I step on the overdrive pedal, it's all over.

I can honestly say, that I would put this amp up against ANY Rivera, Recto, DSL, TSL, Mode Four, and beat ass.

The single note runs are smooth and pronounced as is the thuggish beatdown of power chords.

I carry spare fuses and tubes.
This amp has a fixed bias, so all I need is to drop in a matched quad, and I'm set.

It is built like a tank, but I tend to be very careful with my gear.

As with anything, preventive maintenance, is preventive maintenance.

When I called about the footswitch, they told me I would have to build my own, because they have been discontinued for over 10 years.

No problem there, a common sense answer to a stupid question!

Alot of people, especially us american's, are always wanting to get what they want, there and now.

Get used to the fact that 85% of all returns on defective equipment are due to user neglect and poor basic knowledge of electronics.

They were straight forward and quite pleasant to deal with.

I have 13 years experience with the guitar, and amplifiers.

Luckily, I have tried countless distortion and overdrive pedals over the years and know what works.

Remember that distortion, and overdrive are very different from one another, and that this amp needs a good overdrive pedal for the maximum push.

This amp clearly blows away the JCM DSL 100W, JCM 800, and the clippy blue voodoo.

I think that this amp was meant to run at hot plate voltage levels, and that you should get it suped up with a bias adjustment and some JJ tubes, and then write a review.

Your attitude will be completely different!

Oh, and this particular X100b is covered in tolex, has the old school logo, and has ZERO tears, scuffs or other blemishes.

-100 watts, switchable to 50 or 25 watts
-2 footswitchable channels
-4,8,or 16 ohm settings
-both channels share main, active EQ
-Graphic EQ assignable to either channel
-footswitchable effects loop
-pre-amp out
-footswitchable reverb (one master volume only)
-"hot rod" by pulling lead channel master
Features fit my needs well. I wish the "hot rod" feature was switchable by foot pedal. The only features I personally don't use are the pre-amp out, and the power selector. Unlike other amps I've owned/tried, the tone really seems to get dull when you try to use either the 50% or 25% power reduction. I've also read that in another review, so best to just run it @ 100 watts. Because there other amps out there now with mega features, I'll rate this category accordingly.

Very good sounding, almost awesome! The best thing about this amp is the clean and the distortion are equally as good! No need to a/b two amps on stage (i.e. Marshall for distortion/Fender for clean). Neither channel on the Carvin is as good as the aforementioned amps' strenghts, but I'll take the carvin(overall) over marshall's thin clean and fender's annoyingly middy distortion.

Clean rating:8
warm, but not the warmest;full-sounding, but not the fullest. Stays clean at pretty loud settings.

Distortion rating:8
If all you ever played was '70's rock, this channel's rating would jump up to 9.5! Great sounds for that era! This amp tends to sound best with the mids set at less than 1/2. the mids on this amp were always an issue with me. I wish the mids were a little sweeter. set @ 1/2 you get the '70's rock nailed. Turn down the mids, and you actually get a very good(but not brutal) metal sound. You just can't seem to boost the mids for a nice bluesy sound. There is enough gain for VH,G&R,'90's Grunge, and even can come real close to Metallica. Beyond that, forget it. By the way, I did replace the stock tubes with JJ E34L's and JJ EC883's(high-gain pre-amp), and that helped achieve some heavier distortion sounds.

Bottom line: very nice clean and better than average distortion.
Overall, this amp would be even better with
sweeter mids and tighter bass(on both
channels), and just a touch more gain on the
lead channel.

For anyone who wants to know the equipment I used to help judge this amp's sound,here it is:
guitars-PRS standard, Ibanez RG-something w/JB pick-ups,
Fender standard strat(stock)
speakers-4x12 Peavey w/shetfields,2x12 Avatar w/celestion
GT-75's, 2x12 Avatar w/celestion Vintage 30's,2x12
Avatar w/vintage 30 & celestion G12H(Yeah-I like Avatar)
and all combinations of above.
effects-WHO CARES!!?

I bought this amp new in 1991 and never even had to call carvin once! Not a single issue with this amp, and I've been playing this amp steady for over 13 years!

I've purchased other equipment from Carvin, and they've treated me right. I've been lucky? to not have any major problems, so I couldn't tell you how they'd be if you had a warranty issue.
Rating is based on promptness and friendliness.

I've playing since I was 12(20 yrs. now-WOW!). I've tried really hard to replace this amp(Owned dual rectifier-thin clean sound/no defination, Marshall tsl 601-crappy clean & WAYYY overrated,Carvin Legacy (kinda noisy but BEAUTIFUL tones!). I just keep coming back to my x100B. It's the versatility,quietness, and dependability that keeps me from replacing it. If it were stolen/lost, I'd be sad but I'd move on. I know there's better amps out there,unfortunately it looks like I'd be spending $1500.00+ to find it.

Update on previous review:

This amp finally died on me. It was a problem that would've cost more to fix than the amp was worth. Replaced with a Mesa Nomad 55.


All in all, I have to say that I was satisfied with my purchase of the Carvin X-100B. As a modestly priced amplifier with tone to spare, it should definitely be one to consider.
If I could go back though, I might've gone the route of an MTS or a even a Valvemaster. I guess I just need more than 2 preamp tubes to achieve some of the tones I desire.
I also wish I had the chance to throw some JJ E34L's into the thing to see if it changed my opinion on the crunch channel. As a Hot Rod modified model, it seems like it would be more inclined to this kind of power tube. Given, the 6L6's did AMAZING things to the clean tone on this amp, and given the lack of a footswitch I ran a floor model Mesa V-Twin between my guitar and my X-100B. By leaving the Carvin on the clean channel, I got crystal clear processing of the Solo and Blues channels of the V-Twin, and it only took a quick tap of the Bypass footswitch to go back into shimmering Carvin territory.
As someone who craves versatility to go hand-in-hand with tone, this budget-friendly setup influenced me to go the route of the Mesa Nomad.



Final Thoughts: For the price, it's more than worth at least experimenting with. Everyone has a different ear for tone, and you really can't go wrong when it comes to testing stuff out.
People that desire a more modern tone on a budget, I would point you in the direction of a Carvin Valvemaster or even a Carvin MTS if it's within your monetary grasp. Tweak as I might there were some modern tones I just could not squeeze out of 2 preamp tubes, even equipped with JJ ECC38S (if you don't know, do yourself a favor and find out.)
It might have died on me, but it was still a solid product that withstand more years of use and abuse on this earth than I have...there's no mistaking solid Carvin reliability.

If you can, try before you buy. You never know what amp is going to sound golden until you hear it for yourself.

This is an X-100B that dates to the late '80s, this being the version that has the EL-34s on the output and the dark gray carpeting covering the outside. It has the features that others have described well: all tube, 2 footswitchable channels, spring reverb, an active 5 band graphic EQ, a selector switch for 25/50/100% power output, an impedance selector switch, and an effects loop. With 4 EL-34s at 50% power and run through an Ampeg 4 X 12 cabinet, the sound can be absolutely, brutally loud and I have yet to try it at 100% since I'd likely blow out my windows if I did. I haven't gigged in over 20 years and I'm a bass player who fiddles around on guitar so I really can't compare this to current amp offerings by the major manufacturers. I do know the sound I like though, and the clean on this amp is bright and warm whereas the lead channel with the drive dialed up a bit KILLS! I found this in a pawn shop while I was looking for a tube amp to experiment with after acquiring a couple of Marshall and Peavey SS combos and this has exceeded any and all expectations I had. This is a straightforward amp with big tube sound, clean or drive, with no gimmicks, simple and pure.

Since the graphic EQ is active, there are a lot of sounds to be had by twiddling the dials and fiddling with the slide pots. I'd also suggest taking notes on your settings with each guitar used to minimize the search for "the sound" when changing instruments. I've gotten a lot of great sounds with this setup using a Fender Strat, an ESP M 250, and several other guitars but it absolutely sounds best when I plug in an old Charvel Model 4: the clean can be a shimmering Fender/surf sound while the drive/lead is a lovely, brutal, distorted sound that sounds better than a tube Marshall, IMO. This amp and the active Charvel are wonderfully complementary with no pedals required for a killer sound. For an old bass player who isn't much of a guitarist, they sound absolutely beautiful together, giving me a bitingly clean Ventures-type tone for surf music yet lets me sound like vintage Blackmore, too, when driven and cranked: "the most fun I can have standing up" is an apt description of how I feel playing through this amp.

Since I don't gig and haven't for many years, I can't really say much about its innate reliability. But, it's solidly constructed and I would expect it to require merely a periodic tube replacement and pot cleaning and not much more. If I did gig it, though, I would carry a backup just in case the unxpected happens, like someone spilling a beer onto it. If you gig enough, as I did many years ago, you see the unexpected happen enough times to plan for it. Having a backup amp and/or guitar is just good business sense for a working musician.

Two experiences, one good. I found the owner's manual on the Carvin website and downloaded a copy, good. Then, I sent them an email about the wiring for the footswitch (planning to build my own) but never got a reply. Bad. Think I'll just rate this N/A.

I'm just a bedroom player now, having played my last gig about 25 years ago after 10 years of being in various bands. I've only come back to playing for about 2 years now, having not picked up a guitar or bass for many moons. As I've said, I'm a bass player and I've got more basses than I care to think about and about 15 guitars and 15 amps of various kinds. The only comparable amp to this is a Laney GH50L that is a killer metal amp head but can't come close to this Carvin for clean sounds and versatility. I'm not much af a guitarist, as I've said, but I know what sounds good and this amp is the real deal. Considering that they don't cost many $$$s used, it's a lot of bang for the buck. I dislike the new generation of modeling amps since I'm just a cranky old curmudgeon who believes in keeping the shortest distance between the musician and the sound; microprocessors making virtual sounds isn't musicianship to me. Oh well, I just wish I could be about 16 again and have this amp and the Charvel together...this would be, as Bogart once said, "the stuff that dreams are made of."

This is a Very versatile amp.
It has one channel that can switch between a Clean and Dirty. It has an effects loop with a volume.
It has all the features most club bands need.
I use it in Clubs, Roadhouses, outside bike rallys etc... It has enough power to fill Any stage and Most of the big Bars I play.
It has 6L6 tubes that are just plain Ballsy!... But Sweeten up nicely too.

I, mostly, use an Eric Clapton Strat (Lace Sensors) and a Les Paul Gold Top (P-90s).
It will do all I need to get the "Marshall", "Mesa Boogie" and "Fender" sounds.
It's pretty quiet for the massive gain I can dial up with mine.
The distortion is Brutal when needed.
The tone stack is ACTIVE. This means that a little goes a Long way. It took me a while to get used to them after Years of using Marshalls and Fenders.

I don't like being without a "Plan B", but I Do depend on it. There's usually an amp sitting in reserve in case of trouble. I havn't needed to switch amps with this one. It's built pretty well.

I've played Carvin equipment for many years and they're always eager to help, when I need something. Didn't need repair... They don't let other shops do warranty work on their amps. I guess that would be a weak point.

I've been playing guitar since 1964ish... Electric since 1967ish.
I'd replace it if it were lost. These things are a steal these days.
I like that it's so versatile. Don't hate anything about it.
I've A/B tested mine with several other amps. Marshall, Fender, Mesa, Bogner. This will convince you in a blind sound test.

Purchased in 1993. Three excellent features with this amp -- (1)Power. Tons of it. (2) Footswitchable effects loop. Quiet. Works well with my G Major. (3) Reverb. Huge sound. Not so good feature -- graphic equalizer. Ruins the tone. Prevents the clean channel from overdriving when pushed. Best avoided.

I use a variety of guitars -- Les Paul, Junior, ASAT, Strat, Firebird, Ricky 12. Run it at 100% power. Lower settings adversely affect the tone. Don't use the EQ. It sterilizes the tone. There is a living tube amp under there if you avoid the overbearing EQ. The distortion is sufficient for rock 'n' roll, though perhaps not for thrash. I don't know, I haven't pushed the amp that far. The amp has potential with the right tubes. I really wasn't satisfied with the sound until I replaced the stock GrooveTubes EL 34s with Yellowjackets. These added high-end shimmer and more bottom. In stock condition, it makes a good bass amp.

Extremely reliable. Has never broken down.

I once thought I had a problem with it. It turned out the trouble was with the guitar. I would have had to ship it to them, since they had no authorized service centers. This would have been rather costly, so I had a local guy look at it.

I have been playing guitar for 20 years. This amp in stock condition was ok until I got something better. After swapping out the tubes, playing it full power, and avoiding the EQ, I now have a gigable amp for when I want to use effects. Would I get another if lost or stolen? Perhaps. They're cheap.

Same as all the others listed 2 channels, high & low inputs , effects loop , ect.

I use a Les Paul Classic and a 80's Charvel with active pups. The cleans are amazing! Crystal clear and excellent note deffinition. All you could ask for in a clean channel. Then theres the lead channel. All I can say is ROCKIN FREAKIN ROLL ! Who ever said this amp was not good for metal must have already fryed their ears! Blows Marshall JCM 800 away! Massive bottom end! For all those who said this amp sounded bad heres a hint...TURN SOME FREAKIN KNOBS! This aint no Line 6 or those other amp modeling pieces of shit! This is the real deal! And about the power of this amp, 5 is deafening. More headroom than you will ever need . And the best part--- $300 used! But you are going to have to tweak on it to find the tone, but once you do..look out!

Twenty something years old and works perfectly , no scratchy pots or funny noises. Enough said!

Any time I have called them they bent over backwards to help, which is rare nowadays.

I have been playing seriously since early 80's , have played all kinds of styles of music, been through more amps than most people been through pairs of shoes and for me this is the perfect amp. I would gladly trade a Marshall for one and know I got the better of the deal. I play 80's Metal and it nails it! Very quiet , first rate amp. But remember this is a tube amp and what tubes it has in it makes a hell of a lot of diffence. For my money its Svetlana EL-34s and EH 12ax7s.

I BOUGHT MY CARVIN X-100B BACK IN 1986 AND I SOLD MY MARSHALL,BECAUSE MY CARVIN BLEW IT AWAY. THE TONAL RANGE IS GREAT AND I HAVE NOT LOOKED BACK SINCE. THE KEY TO UN LOCK THE AMPS POTENTIAL IS EXPERIMENTATION AND PATIENTS, YOU'LL BE REWARDED WITH GOOD TONE.

I USE JACKSON,KRAMER,GIBSON AND HOME MADE GUITARS(I USE DIMARZIO EVOLUTION,FAST TRACK 1 AND 2,X2N,LAWRENCE X-500,L 250, FENDER 69 CUSTOM SHOP FENDER PICK UPS,TEXAS SPECIALS, AND DUNCAN SCREAMING DEMON), I PLAY BLUES, 80'S SHRED,80'S METAL,THRASH,FUSION,AND CLASSIC ROCK.THE CLEAN CHANNEL SPARKLES BUT GETS A LITTLE BRITTLE WHEN PUSHED, THE DISTORTION IS THICK BUT IT GETS A LITTLE CRACKLEY. I USE THE AMP FOR GIGS,PRACTICE AND SESSIONS.

THE AMP ONLY NEEDED SERVICING ONCE, BUT I'M HAPPY.

THEY TREATED ME OKAY,BUT SINCE IT'S DISCONTINUED, THEY DON'T CARE.I WISH I COULD FIND ANOTHER FS-36 SWITCH!

GREAT AMP, COSTUMIZE AND IT ALL THE AMPS YOU'LL EVER NEED. LET'S PUT PRESSURE ON CARVIN TO BRING BACK THE X-100B OR PRODUCE A X-100C!!!!.......DREAM ON BOWINKLE.

Gone over already. But my model in particular...

-100w power, all tube
-2x12AX7 and 4x6L6GC
-shared parametric EQ
-assignable 5-band graphic EQ
-selectable ohm rating (4, 8, 16)
-25%, 50%, and 100% power ratings
-gain boost and "bright" clean push/pull switches

There's some good and some bad here. As far as good goes, the 5 band graphic EQ is absolutely amazing for dialing in just the right tone, especially on the clean channel. I've gotten this head manuver through any type of clean sound imaginable, from sparkling bright to dirtier blues or jazz tones, and I attribute it largely to the 5-band graphic EQ.
Secondly, the selectable power rating (25%, 50%, 100%) is great. Sure, this feature is nothing new on tube amplifiers, but the beauty of the X-100B is, while most amps simply cut power by the tube (i.e. 50% only runs through 2 of the tubes while 100% is all 4, etc.) this head simply uses all 4 tubes at a lower level. This is one of many great ideas the people at Carvin had, as not only does it make maintenence less confusing (no confusion as to which tubes have run their course) but it just simply sounds better when 4 tubes are working to produce the output of 2. In fact, I rarely ever played this head on 100%, it was mostly kept on 50% just because the sound was that much better.
Both of these features are really great ideas from Carvin, and I often wonder why more amp companies don't take the hint. It's perplexing why we have to buy out of production, vintage equipment to get features more modern than what we find at the store. =/

Anyway, the bad parts of some of the features. This amp was big in the 80s, so of course it has the same problems of most electronics of the era; it's both ugly and huge. In size I'd compare it to a Marshall JCM900, but maybe slightly heavier and longer. It stretch past my AVT Marshall 412 cabinet (go ahead and laugh) and the edges still hang off the edges of my current Mesa 212. Also, I got one of the models with the gray carpeting, and personally I reccomend trying to find a tolex covered model that runs on 6L6GCs if you have the option. This stuff is just ugly.
The effects loops does what it should, but it's a shame that you need the (rather elusive) FS-36 footswitch for it to be functional at all. At worst you can still just daisy-chain up any of your pedals, but it would've been nice to have it functional.
My least favorite aspect of the amp is the shared parametric EQ, largely because of how much more tweakable the clean tone is as opposed to the crunch tone. Sure the 5-band graphic EQ is assignable and makes up for it somewhat, but in most cases it's going to give a boost to whatever channel it's assigned to.

All in all, the Features on the amp have their shortcomings, but the postive aspects more than make up for it.

I have played this amp through all sorts of guitars with plenty of pickup configurations, the story is always the same for most of them.
The crunch sound is..."nothing special" I guess is the word for it. It can out-Marshall a Marshall, if that's any real accomplishment. Not that it's bad, in fact if you're a solo guitarist in a thrashy band I honestly reccomend the crunch mode, since scooping the mids on the graphic EQ can give you one of the better 80s thrash tones I've ever heard, but it just lacks versatility. It seemed like everytime I tried to bring something up it become too noisy, and when I brought it down a little any real presence just kind of died off. The crunch channel can be hard to tweak, but given the value of the amp it's not a bad choice as a backup.
I said it before but I cannot reiterate it enough; the clean channel on this amplifier is beautiful, easily the best I've ever heard. There's enough features with the amp (graphic EQ, bright switch, etc.) to literally dial in any sound with almost any guitar. My primary guitar was a Spirit model Steinberger with an H/S/H configuration of EMG Select pickups. They're not the best you can get by any means, but with that configuration and this clean channel I had no trouble finding any sound I wanted. One of the few amps that with the right configurations you can get as damn close as it gets to an older Fender amp, minus the reverb.
Speaking of which, the reverb on this amp seems kind of tacked on. It's not nearly full enough and usually sounds pretty artificial, but it gets the job done.

While the crunch and reverb on this amp could've used some tweaking and improvements, I stand by the clean channel on this amp as being one of the best I've ever heard, and well worth the price of admission on it's own.
Crunch - 7
Clean - 10
Reverb - 6

I didn't have the amp long enough to take it out on the road for any period of time, but I bought it used with plenty of battlescars. I could tell when I saw it it had seen more than a few days on the road, and every aspect of it was perfectly functionable.
One good part of the heftiness of the amp is it is built like a tank. I have given it it's share of "tests" over the past couple months and I'm convinced that Carvin spares no expense when it comes to making sure their equipment can handle whatever kind of abuse you can dish out.
If it's your main amp, carry along some extra tubes (always a smart idea with even the most durable amps) and feel confidient about playing without a backup.

I give it a 5 average, I tried to contact Carvin about where I could find an FS-36 and they never got back to me. The next time I tried to get a hold of them was about replacement logos, and the response was prompt if a little informal. One positive experience, one negative one.
I think their customer service is hit or miss, as I've heard plenty of good stories, too. I imagine if you get a hold of them at the right time with the right rep, they'd bend over backwards to help you out.
I wasn't so lucky.

Definitely one of the better amps I've played for this price.
As a bit of a Carvin afficiendo I trust their products more than most companies, and I highly reccomend this head as a backup.
However, if you're running seperate heads for different sounds, I would pick one of these up immediately for the clean channel. Words can't express the versatility of it, and if you wanted a better reverb it might be possible to extend one through the effects loop, but that would also require you to go through the trouble of finding an FS-36. =/
If I had the money to spare, I would keep it just for the clean channel, but otherwise it's still a decent amplifier overall for the small price you'll have to pay for a used one. Just keep an eye open for that footswitch.

This is a small 2 channel,tube, 1x12 combo made in 1984. It has a footswitch which features a middle switch that, when activated, provides a 6 db volume boost, handy for leads.

I play all styles and use Strats and LesPauls. I use a variety of effects with this amp. I've owned this amp for 20 years and it has been great. I've played a few larger outdoor venues and have had players come up to me wondering where my big rig is and looking in disbelief when I show them my tilted back X 60 with a 57 stuffed in front of it. These are great little underrated amps. One big improvement I've made lately is to replace the supplied Celestian G12 M 70 with a Celestian G 12 75. The 70 can be a little high end and brittle,but can it ever take a pounding, like it has for 19 years.A tough speaker. Excellent clean channel and very warm,grunge gain channel.This thing sounds even better through a 2x12 or 4x12 cab.

Hands down, the most reliable amp I've ever owned. This amp has been gigged constantly and just keeps pumping out the tone. It is a true tube tone that doesn't hide much or soften up fretwork mistakes,but who cares anyway. Play the way you play and get it down on a CD the way you play it.That's what originality's all about. Fuck smooth polished,overproduced and processed pablum. Thats for the talentless ones. OK OK enough preaching.......

Good people to deal with.

This is the best small combo you can buy.Very reasonably priced used. Remember the G 70 speaker is a bit Ho Hum. Get a greenback or a Celestian 75. I also have an X60 head with the 5 band EQ. Excellent as well.Tube tone is the best and always will be, and lets face it, there's nothing better than the 'Hum' and the site of those 'Blueorange'glowers in the back.....