Carvin X100B

Yeah, another review full of 10's for this vintage amp. Mine is a 1985. Just bought it on E-bay for $330. The exterior is clean and the electronics work perfectly. Seller was a used musical instrument shop.

The clean channel is loud. The tone controls are extremely versatile. Even without using the graphic equalizer the clean channel tone can be tweaked from tinny plink-plink to bodacious rich full and warm. I love this channel. I never crank the volume beyond 5, as even at this level driving 2 Celestion GT-75's in a closed box is super loud.

Now the distortion channel with either single coils or humbuckers on it's own does NOT light my fire. I need to put pedals in front of it to make it sing. A Seymour Duncan Pick-up booster is really effective here. This amp distortion to my ears has a sucked out mid-range and spongey compressed tone. Tweaking the graphic equalizer here is absolutely necessary. Bring up the treble sliders for more note definition.

Accutronic long Reverb tank is "hot". I think it may a bit too overdriven. I never turn the reverb past 1 as I do not like a long tail reverb that rinnnnngggggssss the note structure into oblivion. But with just a light touch of reverb, the tone is luscious.

My 30 guitar collection includes the major guitar models and then some real esoteric stuff. The Carvin X-100B sounds great with Strats or Les Pauls. I actually play an old Ibanez George Benson with classic clean & mellow jazz tone. I can keep that tone at LOUD volume levels without distortion, amp compression, or wolf notes.

My custom made all mahogany Lap steel sounds great thru this amp. Hawaii tone!

I've owned lots of Carvin amps. They certainly are better made than anything from China, but Carvin amps are not vintage Fender reliable. Usually something has gone wrong with most of my Carvin amps that required shop time. I own Fender amps that are 35 years old that have never been in the shop.

I have met really nice sales people at many of the Carvin Stores in California. I have called the Carvin Tech desk in San Diego several times and talked with Not-So-Nice-People. The Carvin Factory employees seem unhappy & stressed out. But the Factory people will do what you need to get parts, manuals, or warranty service, they just won't be cheerful about it.

I have owned many Carvin amp models. This one is my favorite. It's got the tone that I love. I have not auditioned the 2008 Re-issue. Next time I'm in Sacramento, I'll visit the Carvin Store and listen to the new one for comparison.

The features of this amp are great for getting about any sound you want for any type of music.I have been playing for 20+ years and this is THE amp.Owned many brands,used them,loved them hated them,but this is MY amp.If you cant afford a Boogie,you need this amp.

I use a 4x12 w/celestions and it sounds awesome.Nice and quiet even on high gain,the only noise it makes is the noise I make.I play Carvin guitars,because they rule,and also have a Hendrix Tribute Strat and an 86 Gibson SG.My Martin DM even sounds great through it.These things are known for their excellent clean channel.Like I said any type of genre is good for this amp.Just live with it a while and get to know it.The overdrive is great and the gain boost is just enough,not too much.You can still hear strings hitting fretboard instead of like the line 6 solid state high gain that sounds more like a synthesizer.If its not enough you can change a few resistors and really get it sizzling.I tried this but it was a little much.

I play a variety of music,metal at heart,I work in a rock cover band that does all kinds of music so Ive run this thing for its money and its all I need.

Sometimes I cant believe it still works after I have put it through.

I bought this used so no need for support on a 15 year old amp,but I have bought from Carvin and their customer support is an icon of what it should be.

I have had this amp for 5 years.I wanted one of these since I started playing in the mid 80s.I have a 1x12 version of this that was also great until I blew it up by a shaky hand grounding out the bias ground to the EQ switch.oops.

Its a really good amp.One of the best,especially for what they are selling for on Ebay.Get a Boogie Mark 4 for 400 dollars and probably wont have a chassis in it.

If I could change anything it would be a tube driven reverb.The reissues may have that.Havent played a new one.

Mine is one of the last of the 90's models with the fuzzy carpet covering. Has two channels, but the overdrive channel has a toggle for rhythm/lead. I have Groove Tube el34's in it that were ther when I bought it second-hand. I had missed out on this amp originally and it took me 15 years to find one that someone would part with. The adjustable wattage settings from 25/50/100 watts was a big deal at the time but is standard now. The 5 band eq makes it capable of sounding any way you want it to. The reverb is as good or better than Fender (which is the standard for reverb). The effects loop has a db boost that you can set and the ohms output can be varied if you are playing a half or full stack.

The clean is what knocked me out in '93 - headroom that you have to hear and experience to believe. You have to crank it to about 115 decibels to get the slightest breakup. You can dial tones that sound angelic. The dirty channel is a rock monster. If you pull the knob to Hi Lead, it gets gritty for perfect rock sounds. It truly is capable of pulling out classic EVH, Aerosmith, Zakk, AC/DC...all by adjusting the eq and gain. The matching Carvin Cab is the secret to this beast - it is a 400 watt enclosure with 4 100 watt speakers, all set to 8 ohms for the cab. This is why it will bury a marshall head-to-head. The large wattage allows the amp's headroom to stand out and you get a well-defined distortion with the volume being used to just make it as loud as you want without coloring the tone. I have only used it set to 2.5 outdoors because it kills the PA to keep up! Awesome power and killer sound from clean to raunchy to driven.

I have had no problems whatsoever from the head or the cab. I have the back panel off to let the tubes get air.

Carvin is incredible at helping you over the phone. My questions were answered without a condescending tone like some other companies who have failed musicians who act like you're and idiot for asking a question that they are paid to answer. Their customer support is peerless!

No matter what style you play, I GUARANTEE that this amp is for you. The flexibility of adjusting the wattage from 25/50/100 watts makes it appropriate for all situations. The clean channel is the best (the old standard, Fender, is not close); the gain channel lets you dial up ANY sound; the eq is a fabulous feature; the overall headroom of this amp is unmatched. No need to buy some billion watt head that this thing can go toe-to-toe with.

You probably know the specs so I won't go over them again. This is an old-school classic, reborn. I have to say, as an owner of 2 originals, the new X-100B is every bit as good, if not better, and even better made.

The amp is pretty intuitive and simple, though it has a couple unique features that might throw guitarists at first. The EQ is active, not passive like most amps. As a result, you can get a truly transparent sound, with great fidelity, OR, shape your tone to get whatever sound you have in mind. You can also easily make adjustments for the venue you're performing in, without worrying about the soundguy messing up your tone. ;)

The Graphic EQ is another great feature: learn how to use it and it will become a great tool for shaping your tone. (It also makes a great tool in the studio to craft unique sounds that fit the mix perfectly.)

This isn't a Swiss Army amp, but it is very versatile. It's very simple and straightforward, but it's got incredible cleans, beautiful overdrives, powerful EQ, fantastic reverb, a boost, and handbuilt, American construction: what more do you need?

Carvin makes some of the finest guitars, basses, and amplifiers in the world, easily comparable to the best in the business. I'm a professional guitarist, and have had endorsements with PRS and Mesa/Boogie. I've got a ton of vintage and boutique gear, because guitar isn't just my profession it's my passion. ANYWAY, the Carvin X-100 is one of the all-time classic amplifiers. IMHO, it's a perfect halfway point between the "do-it-all" Mesa's, and the bare-bones, rockin' Marshall's. Unlike almost any other serious rock amp, the Carvin's have an INCREDIBLE clean tone, with one of the best onboard Reverb's you'll ever hear. I play jazz, and country, and the cleans on this amp, (or the Legacy or MTS series, for that matter,) are easily comparable to vintage BF Fenders, or boutique amps like Dr. Z. But the lead channel packs a beautiful crunch, and with the boost, a searing lead tone. If you like classic rock tones of the late 60's through the early 90's, you'll find that tone in the X-100B. It does the fat & squawky Allman/Gibbons/West type of tone, as well as a wonderful "Brown" sound like the first few VH albums. With the 5-band graphic EQ and active controls, you can get the most out of any guitar, while the amp itself is very transparent to the type of guitar you're using. Randy Rhoads fans will want to check out this amp, as should any fan of Zappa, McLaughlin, or Santana: the tones really are that incredible. Keep in mind, the X-100B is a primo, classic rock-style amp. It gets old-school gain, and great cleans, so Country, Jazz, R&B, Blues, and Classic Rock and Metal are covered: if you want super down-tuned modern mayhem, you'll need a pedal, (or better yet, check out the Carvin V3.) For everyone else, the X-100B is one of the most toneful amps on the market, incredibly well-built, and offered at a very generous price. I used to swear by Mesa's and PRS's, but now I swear by Carvin guitars and amps, and I've got the best tone of my career.

Incredibly well-made amps: on par with smaller builders like Mesa/Boogie easily. Heads and tails above Marshalls made in the past 20+ years, (sorry to say, Marshalls aren't made like they used to be...)

Top quality pots, caps, handwired components, everything isolated and ready for a lifetime of use. I've got 2 X-100B's from the 80's that still perform beautifully and look almost new: I'm expecting my new X-100B, (which is even better constructed,) to last just as well.

The guys at Carvin are great. Give them a call sometime. They're eager to help, and if they can't, they'll find someone who can ASAP. I called to ask about special wiring configuration on a guitar I ordered. The guy on the phone wasn't sure if it was possible. He had his boss call me later that day and not only give me the info, but gave me some references of other players who had the same setup. First class guys and gals.

A classic amp, reborn and better than ever. I'd strongly advise any player looking for a versatile amp with a great clean channel to check it out.

Anyone interested in the new Vintage Modern Marshalls should DEFINITELY check out the Carvin first: it's heads and shoulders above in quality, tone and value.

Anyone who's after great tone, and likes the idea of supporting an independent, US company that offers great value should get the Carvin catalog.

For the record,I don't have an endorsement or affiliation, (maybe in the future, ;)) but I just want to help them get the word out on their incredible musical instruments and tools. Keep Playin'

Looks like you guys have let the cat out of the bag. I have been buying and stocking as many of these away as I can. But now you guys have ruined it for me. Now I see these Vintage amplifiers going for no less than $800.00 to $1200 The upgraded carpeted version is going for the most money. Because it just has better tone with the El34 tubes.

The sound quality of these amplifiers are awesome. They get a fender blackface clean with more punch than a fender and marshall tones, no problem. I have collected tube amps my whole life, and this amp blows away any amplifier I have played other than a bogner or orange amplifer. you can't get those tones from this amp, but soldano, mesa boogie, fender, marshall, hughes & kettner, Rivera, VOX. You get all these amplifier tones with ease These amplifers will go from Country to blues, classic rock to metal and the gain still goes up more for thrash metal.

Built like a tank. I run mine four nights a week fours hours a night and have never had a problem. I have changed the power tubes out once in three years just because I thought they needed it.

Only had to use them to get some manuals. they sent them to me for free.

Purchased in 1983. Two channels with 5 band EQ. 100 watts. Plenty loud.

This is (was) a tube amp yet sounded like a transistor amp. Absolutely brittle high end and very sterile. The distortion was grainy and just horrible. The clean channel did not distort. A friend and I both bought these as they seemed to be a great value compared to a new Mesa Boogie (my huge mistake in passing that up). The ads made the X-100 seem like the best thing in the world. He sold his X-100B first and I then sold mine later. These have active tone controls which makes me believe it had a lot to do with the awful tone.

Didn't have it long enough for problems to appear. The build quality is excellent as is most things from Carvin.

Never had to use customer support.

I had been playing 11 years when I bought it in 1983. If I had insurance for it, I would have somebody steal it then get something better such as a Boogie or Marshall. My idea of great tone is Marshall, Boogie, and Rivera. If you want a very loud, grating Death Metal tone, then this is your amp. If you want a smooth and creamy tone, stay away.

5 band graphic EQ, Dul Channels-Clean and Lead, 25/50/100W out-put switch, 4-EL34's and 3-12AX7's.

THE BEST OUT THERE...DUH!!! the clean tone on this amp is SOOOOO crisp and clean. it like god just gave you TONE IN A CUP! dood you can have your 4 year old kid move all the nobs all over the place and plug it in and you have TONE for Years.

Nothing has Stoped my MONSTER X100B YET.

IDK

If you want tone the best way to go is the Cravin X100B. Plug this bad boy into your Stomp Box of any kind and man you got tone that will make any dood ***** his pants. Trust me it happend to me!XD

Others have already run down the features ad infinitum, so I won't go into that terribly much. Mine's an '89/EL34, with Electro-Voice power tubes and no-brand (best as I can tell) preamp tubes, purchased summer '08 for $320 (used, obviously), complete with original footswitch (and in mint condition to boot - not even any dust inside to speak of).

I find the graphic EQ to be useful for recording using the clean channel - helps to get the crystalline, bell-like highs that I like out of a strat or other single-coil. I use the active 3 band for EQ on the overdrive channel, finding that just nudges above 50% for bass, treble, and presence give me precisely the sound I'm after (with the gain dialed at about 8 or so).

Have noted a few people on here whinging about there not being enough power. I can only surmise that their amps are in dire need of retubing/rebiasing, as mine - with the seemingly-new EV EL34s - seriously threatens to blow my 4x12 Carvin cabinet with the volume anywhere above 3 or so. I play in a very LOUD band, opposite a distortion-soaked bassist jamming on an Ampeg through an 8x10 cabinet, and can render her completely inaudible if I so desire. LOUD.

I typically play a Gibson SG and a Kramer Focus 3000 onstage, occasionally using a strat as well. the X100B sounds magnificent with all of them; both the Gibson and the Kramer sound massive through the O/D channel (the fender significantly less so). The amp appears to be 100% hum-free, which is a damn nice change.

I am especially impressed with the X100B as my other amp is a '74 Hiwatt DR103, which I have been in love with for the last seventeen years. Now that the Hiwatt prices havve really gone through the roof, I can't justify taking an $1800 amp around to crap bars, what with the risk of theft/accident/deliberate vandalism/spilled beer, etc., hence my purchase of the Carvin. To my unmitigated delight, it sounds very nearly as good as the Hiwatt, and occasionally (when I need that marvelous Accutronics spring reverb) even better. Count me amazed.

To my ears, the EL34 x100B does an excellent job - especially considering the price - of performing on a par with the DR103 in a live setting. Nuances of the Hiwatt's tone come out in a recorded context, and the Carvin can't live up to that, but pumped through the typical venue's PA system, the two are indistinguishable for all practical purposes.

Rock solid, like all Carvin stuff. Haven't had it long enough to say for sure, but my expectation is that I won't have any reliability issues.

Never dealt with 'em - never needed to, over the course of owning three different carvin heads and two cabinets.

I've been playing professionally since 1988, through a series of Ampeg V4s, Marshalls (blech - got over that quickly), Carvins and my trusty Hiwatt. Loved the V4s (will get another sooner or later), and the Hiwatt rules uber alles, but the Carvin takes second place in a walk. Were it stolen, I'd buy it again ASAP. Can't imagine getting by without it now.

I bought mine new in 1983, 6L6 tubes- Series III X100B,,,WOW. More power than anyone needs, and I know because I've A-B compared side by side with every thing out there and it is LOUD ENOUGH!! Not a hi-gain head on the lead channel,, medium at most. Clean channel is the most deceptive thing on this amp. Smooth, warm and rich or hi-end, bright, and crisp with bass response that never gets flabby or muddy. Until you have turned active tone controls like these, you'll never understand what I mean. Anyone that thinks this amp has no balls and dumped it, lost out from not knowing how to use this amp.

The lead channel can be dialed in to make a wide variety of great sounds if this is all you are willing to do, BUT the clean channel is how this amp destroys others in its path. I play a strat with a Duncan Distortion in the bridge position and a Floyd Rose. Plug in a killer distortion pedal or like me a multi effects board ---digitech, Line 6, ADA-MP1 or any good pre-amp. My Digitech GNX2 with my own amp settings through the clean channel completely blows every one away that has heard it. These amps are dead quiet in comparison to most anything out there, with thick articulate distortion and a bottom end thump that Ive only heard from big-dollar heads. This amp moves air,, lots of it,, through my 2 4x12 cabs,,,,1 with celestions and the other with eminence speakers. The lead tone is fat and violin like, with single note bass strings having that Zakk Wylde agressive thump that breaks up beautifuly!!I am having a tough time plugging in to anything else at a music store because I can't find this kind of response, even at bedroom volumes.I am now hunting down more X100b's to buy because these are still gonna be killer sounding in 2028.

Never been on the bench since 1983 for anything but tubes. No scratchy pots or EQ sliders. I cannot ask for anything more from this amazing tube head!!

Carvin is a great company to deal with.

If it was stolen,,,I would find them,,, and wait till they were sleeping,,, and hurt them real bad!!

This is the 6L6 power tube version. Built in mid to late 80's (not sure what year). 2 channels, effects loop, switchable from 100 to 50 to 25 watts, switchable from 4, 8, and 16 ohms, 5-band EQ, active controls..pretty much anything you would want in an amp.

Most folks complain that the 6L6 version of this amp has less gain than the EL34. I wouldn't know, I haven't played on an EL34 powered x100b. I play punk/thrash/metal and this suits me fine. I use two Epiphones, one with stock humbuckers and one with a Dimarzio Super 3 in the bridge, and also a BC Rich with stock pickups. All sound uniquely like their own, this amp has a way of letting your guitar's natural tone shine through. This amp has plenty of creamy distortion, I'm talking Marshall JCM 800 to Mesa Mark Series. If you play something a little harder, might I suggest a slight boost pedal in front of the gain channel? Just enough to give it a kick in the a$$, I wouldn't want to ruin the already awesome distortion this amp creates on it's own. Tone to boot! Very easy to dial in "your tone" with the active controls, every millimeter on the knob changes the sound. I never use the clean channel, but have messed around with it: Sparkle, sparkle. No trouble with noise at all on this amp, quiet as a mouse and it's almost older than I am!

Have had absolutely no trouble what so ever. I carry a backup amp just in case but have never had to use it.

Never had to call them.

I've been playing about 9 years. I have own solid state after sh!tty solid state amps, a Sovtek MIG50, and came very close to buying a Marshall JCM 2203. This amp has more features, is more versatile, and is less noisy than all of them. I am very pleased with my decision. If this were stolen, I would buy two more! Ha! You can't beat these things.. and CHEEAAAPP! You don't have to pay a grand for awesome tone!

I just want to point out that "X100B" is the model name for a series of amps Carvin built for over ten years from the early 80's to the early 90's. You'll find lots of all vintages on eBay and elsewhere, selling for around $300. The earlier amps, identifiable by a cursive, curvy Carvin logo, and covering that looks like Tolex vinyl, use a quad of 6L6s for the power tubes. The later ones, with an italic Carvin logo, usually "carpet" covered, are EL34 based. Most need adjustable bias added for best sound.

All of them share the same basic schematic. They have many op-amps and FET switches in the circuitry for the graphic eq, tube drive/receive, and even in the main signal chain of both channels. These are used for transparent switching and buffering. The distortion sources are all tube circuits.

The footswitch is a three-button affair with a DIN connector. Most used amps don't have the footswitch, which appears regularly on Ebay for lots of money, or you can get something compatible at tonejones on the web.

There are also cute combos available, with a 50W(XT), a 100W{XV)112, and a 100W(XV)212 made in most years. I really like the fuzzy grey 112s.

See carvinmuseum on the web for more details.

The 6L6 based amps, like most 25-year-old amps, usually need a good overhaul. Control pots, tube sockets, and reverb connections usually need cleaning. Once restored, these amps have an amazing Fender-like clean channel that can run at full power without break-up. It feels like infinite headroom. HV sag is moderate to low. The result is a really good amp for your tele or pedal-steel. The high-gain channel is less appealing. I prefer a tube-screamer up front driving the clean channel.

The later EL-34 based amps are still 15 years old, and can usually benefit from an overhaul. These amps give a more Marshall-like tone, with overdrive that gets really carried away if you turn the lead drive past 3. Again, the clean channel is still the high-light. These amps are good for blues and classic rock.

The circuitry is basically reliable, but these are vintage amplifiers with lots of connectors and knobs. They do need a bit of love.

You can find all the schematics at www.carvinmuseum.com.

Hey, what do you want for $300? If you like to mess with amps, and know enough to avoid getting killed, these amps are great fun. I've got 5, plus an X50B, an XT112, an XV112, and two XV212s. I guess that makes me partial.

i bought my x100b used at a local music shop. it's a carpet-covered later model. same features as previously mentioned in other reviews. the guy at the shop told me it was a metal monster. like mesa or marshall at less than half the cost. all the features were a little overwhelming at first, but i've had an easier time since downloading the manual on the carvin website.
he was right about the metal monster part. i don't know about the other reviews contradicting this fact. they probably don't have the right axe and cables, and can't dial-in the right settings. totally don't need any external effects. it's got everything covered. unless you want your axe sounding like a synthesizer.
this thing can get loud and sound like a freakin' chainsaw. setting the graphic eq and pickup selector to rhythm, pulling the rhythm channel to bright, and turning up the lead drive to like 9 produce face-melting deathgrind tones. the rhythm and master channels and presence control don't even make it past two before i can feel the immediate tremors on the hardwood floors!!!!
i'm really a one genre kind of player. but when i'm dialing in my tone, i can hear the other possiblities before arriving at brutality. for metal, this thing is friggin' awesome!

this thing does heavy and loud (my two favorite things) clearly and perfectly. although, i guess it helps playing a les paul with a pair of emg-81s run through monster cables.
turning up the lead drive produces gain that feels like a drill running through your ears to your brain. i recommend wearing earplugs if you value your hearing. also, the pull bright on the rhythm channel produces crazy mesa tones at (can't emphasize this enough) less than half the price. just gotta make sure everything is set to rhythm and all your pickup and eq settings are turned up.
you can get about any sound considering the multitude of controls on the amp and your axe. and with active circuits it doesn't take much knob turning to alter your sound.

i've never had any problems with it. but i've only played once in public at a local park amphitheatre. worked great for me. everything else is confined to home. i get it looked at for tube replacements etc. every couple years. so that probably helps too.

only used the website to download and print a user manual so i can't say much for their customer support

i've been playing for about fifteen years and owned the x100b for ten years. it was my first "real" amp and i've never had the desire to replace it. mainly cuz of the performance versus value aspect. it's always worked fine for me, and i can get the same sounds as other high performance amps for way less money. so there's never been any reason to change. not to say i wouldn't play the "high-end" stuff. i just ain't paying for it....

My model amp is an 89 model which i Bought new - with the "carpet covering", "EL34s" and "hotrod 1b factory mod".
As already indicated this amp has 2 channels, and for me the amps only problem is that there is no preamp control on the clean channel.
The result is that the clean channel stays very clean even at high volume, at times a slight bit of overdriven sound on the clean channel would be nice.
All the other features that others have already mentioned are very good (and useful).
One point on carpet covered amps - some people hate them but i love them, sure it does look a little ugly but its far more practical than Tolex. I must have played hundreds of gigs with this amp and it looks as good now as it did when new (however it is always transported in a roadcase). Carpet is hard to tear unlike tolex and velco sticks to it very well - Therfore, I have velcro under my wireless transmitter, tuner and anything else i sit on top of the amp while playing and never worry about things vibrating off.

I have read many reviews and couldnt be bothered writing one myself until now, as i had recently gone through a process of trying to replace this amp.
I simply could not find anything that was exactly what i wanted and did A~B testing with this amp and others including TsL100, 5150, Marshall 6100 and Mesa MkIV as comparisons.
I found that i could make the Carvin sound so close to every other amp (but with only very slightly less gain)and without having the 2 amps side by side i dont believe anyone could tell them apart.
The reason for this is the EQ sections on the carvin, - no amp came close to the control of its active tone and Graphic EQ functions.
The Carvin has more than enough gain (And i do like lots of gain) for myself so i couldnt justify spending thousands of $$ to get an extra channel or gain on the clean channel. As others have stated if you want a loud clean sound this amp is hard to beat.

As i have already said, i have done hundreds of gigs with this amp, i have replaced the valves a couple of times and had no problems at all.

never needed them but their website is good and you can download manuals and schematics.

Ive been playing for 26 years, and always plug straight into amps (no effects) and have many guitars of all configurations, all sound good (and different) through this amp.
My biggest revelation is how i have been setting up my tone more recently (since i decided not to buy another amp).I generably keep the tone controls reasonably flat (equal) and boost the mids and lower mids on the graphic EQ.
Like all tube amps, they just sound better when the power amp is turned up. Here is where the carvin trully excels.
Turning up a 100watt amp can be way too loud for certain venues, however as the carvins EQ is so powerful you can run the power amp to nearly full and drop all the tone controls down to about level "2" or less.
In other words you can get that highly sought after power amp overdrive at low volumes by using your EQ controls to control volume.(maybe at the expense of wearing out valves quicker).
Running the amp this way I now can also have that overdriven tone on the clean channel too. Yahoo.

I've had 5 of these things: 2 combos, 2 6L6 heads, and currently an el34 head. I don't like the el34 head nearly as much as the 6L6 versions regardless of a supposed hot rodded circuit. Either version needs a good boost pedal to get the distortion channels to kick @ss, anyway, though the cleans seem great on both. The graphic eq plays a major role in why I've had a number of these amps. From using these, I've learned that putting a good eq pedal in the loops of other amps can make a huge and great difference, as well. Due to the distortion being pretty lame without a boost and not having 3 channels like I'm currently used to with the Peavey Ultra Plus, but at the same time having a decent active eq and a great clean channel, I'll give this category an 8.

I may have found a solution to make the el34 version sound fairly good (using a Bad Monkey as a boost), but it's still not the same as the 6L6 versions boosted with a good tubescreamer. The X100B el34 version that I have now I might mess with a bit more and then possibly trade off for another 6L6 version if I can't get it up to par with what I'm used to.

To the reviewer a few posts down who said his 6505 kills the X100B in volume when the graphic eq is being used, all I can say is I don't know what he's talking about. I had a 5150 for a year that I also boosted the volume with a graphic eq in the loop and still can't say the amp all the way up is as loud or louder than the X100B with the graphic eq scooped, though admittedly I didn't also have every other control at zero, either. Playing too scooped takes all the tone and cutting ability out of about any guitar amp, anyway. Not knocking the 5150 here but rather am defending the Carvin where I don't think it was given a fair shake.

Anyway, I've used the X100B's to play everything from clean strat sounds to Stevie Ray Vaughn and Hendrix style blues-rock to classic rock and metal such as Rush and Iron Maiden to Slayer and Metallica tones when using a decent pickup such as active EMG 81/85 set or nice Dimarzio and Seymour Duncan high gain pickups in addition to using a tubescreamer as a boost. A nice chorus in front of the amp in addition to the onboard reverb can make the cleans sound exceptionally good, IMO.

I'll give it an 8 for tones considering the clean is great but the distortion channel is fairly lame without a boost but gets it done with a tubescreamer or other similar pedal.

Very solid amps, though I had the reverb mess up on the combo I had a long time ago; I was pretty ignorant regarding matching Ohms up, though, and likely messed it up by just plugging it into different cabs all the time without verifying the Ohms matched up correctly. I've played these amps for well over a decade with no other problem that that and played at high volumes with a heavy hitting drummer, and that includes playing the combo after the 'verb messed up for at least 5 or 6 more years with no other problem.

I like the carvin museum forum and the regular carvin forum, though I liked the older version of the regular forum better than the new one. I also like that they at least have a schematic of the old fs-36 footswitch available on their site, but I've never had any direct contact with the company, so I'll leave it at no opinion but feel likely the customer support would be very good.

Again, I've owned 5 of the X100 series amps altogether, and there's a reason I've bought more than one; first, I traded my first combo amp for a JCM800 amp back in the early '90s thinking it would be a better amp, but I wasn't really into the Marshall like I thought I would be and so got an X100B head that I found at a pawn. I used that head for a good while but ended up needing money pretty bad and didn't need a loud amp for a short while and so sacrificed it. It didn't take long to miss that, and then I got another combo. I played that one for 6 or 7 years and then found another head that I thought sounded better and bought along with the current V412 cab I currently have and love (that also has sounded great with the 5150 I used to have and the Ultra Plus I currently use).

Overall, the Carvin's a great workhorse of an amp, and when paired with a boost and decent pickups on the guitars can get some great rock to metal tones as well as very good clean tones. I'm not as keen on the el34 versions, but then again I've only ever played through one of those and that's the one I have now; maybe it needs rebiased or something. But the 6L6 versions are sweet, IMO. When I simultaneously owned the 6L6 head and the 5150, the band I was in liked the variety when sometimes I would show up with either of the amps, and they loved how thick and powerful the Carvin sounded as well as the 5150 with the eq in the loop. I know they liked the cleans on the Carvin more. ;)

I'll give this category a 9 due to how useful these amps have been to me over a long period of time. 8)

2 channels with a high lead on the dis. side. rythm, lead switch, and a bright switch for the clean channel. basic rock amp, can get a decent metal sound if you play with the knobs. only one warning not a plug and play amp. you will have to search for your sound, but it is probably in there somewhere, just have to know what to do.

you can get just about any sound you are looking for exept metal. for that just get a good pedal and you'll be fine.never had a problem with clean headroom, but ive never had it louder than 4 or 5 on the clean side, and that was to loud.distortion is not brutal at all at best you get a guns and roses or metallica black album sound without pedals. i retubed the head with jjel34s and ecc83s and now ive got a decent zack wylde sound. i play a prs custom 24 stock and a strat. overall amp is ver versitall does anything i need. but i dont play alot of metal. for that run a od pedal in frot of the dis.

never had a problem, but it is a tube amp. never play without a backup.

n/a

been playing for 7 years. i own a prs custom 24, les paul, and a strat. amp sounds good with them all.i would buy another if it ever blew up. i chose this amp over the marshall dsl 2000, and a jcm 900. the marshalls just aren't worth the extra $600 to $700. plus the carvin has a better straight up rock sound, and the clean channel is better than anything else ive heard period. you cant beat this amp for the money.i would recomend this amp to anybody, except maybe a metal player, you nedd a marshall or soldano.

1984or1985 black tolex covered head, with the 6L6 power tubes,no "hot rod" cirquitry.Two channels, reverb... All the features are covered in the other reviews, so i wont go into all of them.More than enough power for anyplace ive ever played!As a 100 watt all tube head, it is extremely LOUD!, and very heavy, as in weight.I run mine at the 50% power settings,and i don;t notice any loss of tone as opposed to the 100% power settings, as some people suggested.Maybe the gray carpeted version acts differntly at the 50% power, but mine sounds just fine, and i can open up the master volume more, and you can really tell when the power tubes kick inat around 3 on the master volume.THe bottom end of the sound really fills in and the louder you turn it up, the better it sounds!

I just got my carvin out of the shop 2 weeks ago, and had it totally gone thru, re-tubed with all new JJ tubes, some jacks and swithces replaced, and the amp bias set.I had;nt played this amp in at least 6 years.The clean channel is very good, but it;s not the warmest clean I ever heard,sounds like a early fender type sound, but it;s a little raw around the edges at times, almost a little bit of a brittle sound at times,I like the reverb alot.The pull bright onthe clean is really nice,really sounds fenderish.the distorted channel is a difernt beast altogether.At low gain settins, the amp nails the 70;s and early eighty rock sound.THere is definitly a british influnce to the sound, even with the 6L6 tubes,also as my friend pointed out to me, the amp has a certain honkeyness, or nasal about its general tone, that you can;t completely get rid of.At higher gain settings,and the amp has plenty gain, the sound gets kinda fuzzy/ raspy/muddy.And this is my point, the amp actually has a good amount of gain, it;s just not a smooth/singing/sustaining kind of distortion.The tone, or shape of the distortion is not that pleasing, and theres not much you can do about it, it;s just a characteristic of this amp, but it;s not bad at lower gain settings. This amp is very chunky sounding, and has some great rhythym sounds, thanks to the carvin 4x12 cabinet.As a stand alone amp, this wouldn;t cut it for me, because the distortion just isn;t very good, So heres how I deal with that,I run into my trusty ADA MP-1 tube preamp[ also with fresh JJ 12ax7's]first, and then.. into the clean channel of the Carvin.This changes evrthing, and now this anp breathes fire.I play a Parker Nitefly guitar, thers also an Alesis Midi-verb2 in the effects loop of the MP-1 for some delay.I play everthing from blues to mowtown,classic rock. to progressive.This amp is pretty quite,if it;s plugged into some clean power.

Had this amp for 20 years, did have it die on me once, were it needed some work, but all in all it's worked fine for most of the time i've owned it.

Always very helpfull

Iv'e been playing 32 years , and own a flextone 3 plus amp, a parker, and a kramer pacer deluxe guitars,and asst. rack gear.I wouldn't replace this if it were lost or stolen, as it's just too old, and too heavy!I love the look of this half stack, it;s most impressive.I love the fact that it;s 100 watts of all tube power for me to use however I see fit, weather it be with a distortion box, or my MP-1 preamp,WHen used in this fashion, this amp kicks butt! The louder you turn it up, the better it sounds!My 2 biggest gripes would be it's just to big and heavy for the places my band plays at, and the slightly honkey/nasal character of this amp,which isn't as bad when used with the ADA mp-1.

In regards to the reviewer below me, allow me to quote exactly from my original review:

"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."

In regards to the reviewer below me stating that my youtube video demonstrated less than satisfactory volume, please keep in mind that it was a small club and that when you're actually playing in a band you don't need to crank the amp that loud in said venues. I guess a bedroom's acoustics are a bit different.

Oh and by the way, here's the link to my youtube video:

http://youtube.com/watch?v=XsGlp7SUdTQ

In regards to the reviewer below me, please understand that I recommended this amp to you on a couple of occasions, yes - but I also said that it will not match your digital amps in terms of zero dynamics chunk. It ain't gonna' happen.

It was nice knowing ya' man, I'm glad to see you're doing the same.

I bought one because people told me it was one of the greatest amps ever made - WRONG! I later found out that they were just Steve Vai fanboys. This amp lacks a WHOLE lot, everything sounds like you would expect from a 20 year old amp, unstable and poor. The distortion is not hot compared to anything you can buy today, the cleans are its strongest point and they are good - but not great or awsome. The 'output' is pathetic at best, I was told this was a REALLY loud amp, if you think so then you desperately need to introduce yourself to a REAL loud amp, don't compare it to your 16 ohm stereo. Most of the volume is in the EQ, try to scoop the mids and you're done. It has no thunderous, wall shaking power. If you want it loud and bassy you dime the bass, if you want it loud and trebly you dime the treble, the volume is entirely wrapped in the EQ and even with everything dimed I have never needed to wear ear plugs, Someone who urged me to buy this amp talked about how he thought it was so incredibly loud, then I saw a video of his cover band playing live on youtube (unfortunately after I bought it) and I immediately noticed that I could hear people in this bar talking over what they were playing, thats not loud at all. Compared to my 6505, this amp is a joke in all categories and upon some further research Steve Vai hardly used it and flooded it with OD's, ext. preamps and effects when he did. This amp is far from worth it's hype. It was one of the cheapest amps on the market in its time for a reason at $440-500 brand new, I wouldn't suggest that anybody pay more than $50 for one if they plan on using it, it's nostalgic at best.

Horrible, it took me 3 weeks just to get my serial # dated.

Best suited for beginners and undevoted guitarists looking for something better than nothing, I gave mine to my 9 year old nephew, he likes it.

I bought one because people told me it was one of the greatest amps ever made - WRONG! I later found out that they were just Steve Vai fanboys. This amp lacks a WHOLE lot, everything sounds like you would expect from a 20 year old amp, unstable and poor. The distortion is not hot compared to anything you can buy today, the cleans are its strongest point and they are good - but not great or awsome. The 'output' is pathetic at best, I was told this was a REALLY loud amp, if you think so then you desperately need to introduce yourself to a REAL loud amp, don't compare it to your 16 ohm stereo. Most of the volume is in the EQ, try to scoop the mids and you're done. It has no thunderous, wall shaking power. If you want it loud and bassy you dime the bass, if you want it loud and trebly you dime the treble, the volume is entirely wrapped in the EQ and even with everything dimed I have never needed to wear ear plugs, Someone who urged me to buy this amp talked about how he thought it was so incredibly loud, then I saw a video of his cover band playing live on youtube (unfortunately after I bought it) and I immediately noticed that I could hear people in this bar talking over what they were playing, thats not loud at all. Compared to my 6505, this amp is a joke in all categories and upon some further research Steve Vai hardly used it and flooded it with OD's, ext. preamps and effects when he did. This amp is far from worth it's hype. It was one of the cheapest amps on the market in its time for a reason at $440-500 brand new, I wouldn't suggest that anybody pay more than $50 for one if they plan on using it, it's nostalgic at best.

Its strongest point.

Horrible, it took me 5 weeks just to get my serial # dated.

Best suited for beginners and undevoted guitarists looking for something better than nothing, I gave mine to my 9 year old nephew, he likes it.

I own the 80's-style fuzzy carpet version. I believe it was made in '89. It has treb, mid, bass, pres, and also a seperate 5 band graphic eq. Having the different eq's allows different tones to be achieved. You might find that say a cut in the mids on the 5 band sounds better than the mid cut on the standard eq, and vice versa. Also the graphic is assinable to either the clean or dirty channel. This allows you to set your standard eq optimized for say your dirty channel and use the graphic to compensate for your prefered clean sound. It has a 100%/50%/25% power switch, footswitchable effects loop and spring reverb (also footswitchable). On the dirty channel, the gain know pulls out and adds more gain. The clean volume pulls out for a bright switch. It has 2 inputs. I has a preamp output on the back. Also has a switch for 4,8, or 16 ohms and two cabinet out puts.
I use this amp in a metal/rock band. This amp is very versatile and able to achieve the cleanest sounds and has a good deal of gain, considering its age. Many newer amps have more gain, but I find that this has all the gain that I really need anyhow. If I ever want a tad more, I would use a overdrive or booster to give it a bit more. The only thing that I wish the amp could do is footswitch between gain and more gain. This amp is extremely loud. I usually use the half power setting.

This amp sounds amazing both clean and dirty. The lead channel sounds a bit like a Marshall JCM 800. When I plug in my Les Paul the amp sounds perfect even with all of the eq knobs set at 12:00. However, each eq knob, being active, offers more cut and boost than you'll ever need. In fact, the manual recommends using only subtle movements away from 12:00 under typical uses. The graphic eq offers an entire different set of tonal possbilities. For instance, you might prefer the way a bass boost sounds on the graphic and the treble boost on the standard. You might use a combination of mid cut or boosts. The clean channel is first very clean and second very warm and pleasing as any fender, except with more eq versatility. The reverb sounds great as well.
This amp is by far the most pleasing amp that I have ever owned, for dirty and clean. I have owned marshall, fender, and mesa. In my opinion, they sounded great with some tweaking. The carvin sounds even greater before I even touch the tone controls. I never give something a ten, but in this rare case I will. Nothing even close in price compares to the sound of this amp. Actually, I like it better than anything I ever plugged into.
* I use this amp with an inexpensive B-52 4x12 Cab, not the carvin cab.

I haven't had any problems. It's a tube amp. It's never a bad idea to have a back up of some sort for gigs.

I contacted Carvin about getting an the long-ago discontinued pedal. They quickly got back to me and explaing how one of their current pedals could be easily modded (a couple solders to the cable) and sent me a diagram. I found an original one on ebay. I think that they should carry replacement parts, such as the footswitch for discontinued amps. But this might not be very cost-effective from their side. Any increase in expenses on their part will require them to raise their sale prices, which we don't want

I've been playing for 12 years and have 2 music degrees. I've owned more equipment than I care to mention and find this amp satisfying in every way. Tons of power, plenty of features, and unbelievable tone and flexibility. For the 300-400 this thing typically sells for on ebay, don't waste your money on anything else. (I got it at guitar center for $150!) The only thing that I would change would be to add a forth footswitch that goes from gain to more gain. However, the push in knob is simple enough when say a less distorted sound is desired for a certain song. Beyond this, the carpet-like covering is a little cheesy to look at, but I could always buy Tolex cheap and recover it. Another benefit, this amp isn't as heavy to lift as many other all tube heads. This is because Carvin uses ligher materials, I want to say Plywood? In any case, it's very light and still seems very strong.

100 tube watts, active tone controls, bright switches, 2 channels, reverb, effects loop. etc. etc, if you're looking at this review you know what this amp has. Simply put this am is amazing. For the prices they are going for right now, it is an absolute steal, I sold my mesa boogie 2 months after i bought this, because it simply wasn't getting used. Regardless of what type of music i play through this, there is enough for everything, ska, raggae, classic rock, hardcore, screamo, blues, jazz, and the most amazing clean tone i've ever heard. The only drawback i've found with these amps is the lack of available footswitches, i've just wired my own with a schematic i got from carvin.

perfect with every guitar i put through it. fender cyclone, strat, schecter omen, les pauls, even acoustics, it all has it's place that is easily findable on this amp

Never so much as a tube crack. reverb can be a bit noisy when travelling with this monster in the back, but it has yet to let me down sound wise

The people at Carvin are amazing, they emailed me the wiring schematic for me to make my footswitch. All they do is make amazingly quality instruments and products for even more amazing prices.

I have submitted a review of this amp before, but I have recently purchased the V3 so I am giving a quick little update review on why going up against the behemoth V3 the X100B still stands tall in my book.

Compared to the V3's features, the X100B does fall a bit short. But what the X-amp offers is plenty enough for me and having reverb is a plus (it is an exceptional reverb at that).

The 5 band EQ and ACTIVE tone controls also help to seal the deal for the X100B.

I will start out by saying the X100B's clean tone truly is the best I've ever played - while the V3's is more versatile via a "voicing switch" and drive knob, it just doesn't feel the same to me. It's not a bad clean sound by any means, it simply can't compare to the X-amp's.

The V3's distortion is massive and brutal, which is exactly what some people are after - I'm after tone, and I have it right here in my X100B. Any sound you are thinking of can be found in it, and as I mentioned before, the active tone circuit will get its hooks in you to the point that you will never want to go back! Both the clean channel and the distortion sound much more direct to me, and having that kind of control over the EQ is incredible. Truly a magnificent sounding amplifier!

I've never had anything other than standard tube amplifier issues. It is dependable.

I have always loved this amp - from the moment I first fired it up to recently when I thought I would "replace" it with the newer, hipper V3 - I just had to go back to the X100B! It has plenty of distortion for whatever it is I need (any type of 80's metal, prog rock, or more laid back stuff), the clean tone is truly something to behold and the ease of which I can dial in whatever sound I need is comforting to say the least!

It is really cool to know that I have an amp that I can depend on for years to come. I can't stress enough how awesome a deal one of these is...$300-$400 for it? Don't pass on it! I have a feeling in a few years they won't be going for a measly three hundred bucks anymore. ;-)

This is the grey fuzzy cover, and I haven't found out exactly, but I'm estimating it's a late 80's/early 90's version.

As far as features go, it was awesome in it's day and is still good, although if you're comparing it to the Marshall TSL heads or some of the Fender/Line modeling heads, you may not find it has 'features'. It's perfect for me. I play 80's/90's rock, blues, and metal and it meets all of my needs well.

It has two channels, clean and dirty. Duh. However, the dirty channel can be either an overdrive, or a distortion channel by simply pulling out (or pushing in) the knob that controls the level of distortion. So you can either have AC/DC crunch or ball busting distortion by pushing the knob.

Channel switching is controlled by the elusive FS-36 footswitch which controls the channel, the effects loop, and the reverb. I bought my amp used 5 years ago (and got a heck of a deal - $450 for the halfstack from a guy who needed cash fast) but it took me two more to find the footswitch.

There are two eq's - a parametric and a graphic, and a selector switch controls which eq controls which channel. I set my clean to the parametric and the dirty to the graphic.

It is rated for 100 watts, but you can select either 25%, 50% or 100% power, which changes when the clean channel breaks up, the gain to some extent, and the sensitivity of the master volume control.

It has two impedence inputs, which is the only feature I don't use. It has an effects loop, 4, 8, or 16 ohm speaker output.

I use a Carvin DC127T with dual Carvin humbuckers and an ESP Explorer with EMG pickups.

The sound of this amp is phenomonal. The clean channel is the best in the business (well, unless you spend $5,000 on a boutiqe amp - maybe). Fender wishes it's cleans were as good. The distortion is a little mid-dy, even with some of the mids scooped, but is on par with any Marshall, Peavey, or Mesa. The only difference with some of those amps is that it can't get quite as saturated as some of the newer Marshall/Mesa heads, but it still has plenty of distortion for just about anything. The use of the eq's and presence knobs allow for a huge range of sounds.

Up until recently, I just used the amp's distortion for all my distortion needs. I've recently added a couple of pedals (Marshall Guv'nor 2 and Scott Ian Black-13 by Digitech) because I like their sounds through this amp. The distortion is awesome. 'nuff said.

The reverb is exceptional and on about 3 is plenty. At 6 or higher, it has so much depth you could dive into it.

This amp is LOUD! On 50% output and the volume on 4, I can fill nearly any small to mid-sized club. 1 is as loud as I can go to practice in the garage without destroying the neighbor's and drowning out the rest of the band. I don't think I've ever needed to turn it past 5 - if you do, you need a BIG PA system.

Had it for six years. It's never broken or given me any problems in any way.

The only thing I've noticed that I don't care for is that some effects can be noisy in the effects loop. Not a big deal.

Dealt with Carvin on my guitar and my amp. Excellent customer service, very helpful. Just wish they weren't in CA....

I've been playing for 15 years. I've recently been considering buying a newer Carvin head (Legacy or V3) just because I want to, but I will never part with this thing. It is great!

People who talk all day about their Marshall's and Mesa's (both are great amps) don't understand what they're missing and how they got ripped off by paying $1500-$2000 for their head when they could get a Carvin head (even the newer ones) for under a grand. These X100B's are on Ebay for $300-$400 all day long. They are perfect for all musician's but especially those who don't have a lot of cash but want to get a tube head. Look no further!

Quick true story. My bass player owns a metal club here in town. We practice there all the time so I left my gear set up most of the time. One night a few months ago he had a 6-band show booked. One of the guitar players for one of the bands had a crappy Crate 1/2 stack and had been saving up for a new Mesa. He asked if he could use my 1/2 stack so he didn't have to set his stuff up. I said "Sure". He ranted and raved about my 'old' X100B. They played again last week and he had taken the $1400 he had saved, bought an X100B half stack, a new axe, and a couple of new pedals. Yes people, it's THAT good.

Most of the features have been listed already so i wont waste alot of time here. I havent dated mine quite yet but its an el34 modern logo carpeted version so im guessing late 80's early 90's?

TONE oh dear god TONE! I have played through marshall jcm800 2000 and jtm45 heads and this amp has all them beat. such a wide variety of tonal choice this amp is amazing. The EQ comes in really handy when your looking to find "your" tone or when trying to math some one elses. I play mostly newer hard rock (nickel back, Metallica, Alter birdge, etc.) Some punk( blink 182, the offspring, etc.) and some classic rock ( AC/DC, Fog hat, hendrix, cream,etc.) THis amp has it all, and when i cant get that ultra smooth sound (this amp has chunk there's not alot that you can dot to smooth out good ol fashined chunk) i flip on my tube screamer or Big muff Pie, or DS-1 and i can get ANY tone im looking for. I play it through two matching carvin 4X12 cabs.

Alot of guys complain about not having a seprate boost, well i bypassed this problem by putting an Ashly SC-40 In the effects loop, hello boost! now its like having three channels and the effects loop is accesibe via footswitch.

I play a Gibson SG, an epi Flying V, and a Guild burnside, crossbow headless with seymour duncans all three guitars offer amazing sounds ouut of this amp and i would say its the most verstial tube amp ive ever heard.

This thing is a tank! I cant telll you how scary it can be when you gigi a tube amp... tubes being fairly expensive to replace this amp does a good job of protecting them, the amp is indestructible and the cabs are as solid as a brick wall. The only complaint is i blow a fuse about every couple of months but i guess its better the fuse goes than the amp fry.

Never had to call them!

I got this bad oy on sale from rumble seat music in itaca new york, they gave me the best deal for a full stack ive ever witnessed. With tone to die for and rliability, what more can you ask for?

I have the 1988 version(Modern logo but not furry) And I have to say I've NEVER been this impressed with an amp before, its more versatile than any marshall or peavey I've ever played(Not saying they are bad amps, just saying if you want a good jack of all trades go for this amp)

Its pretty basic, 2 channels, graphic EQ(Which honestly can shape your sound into almost anything you could want) One of the best onboard reverbs I've ever heard also.
It also has a selectible power switch on the back which gives you the option of playing at lower volumes and still getting some of the distortion, I personally love 50% power because I get that extra push off the cliff(yeah spinal tap joke, sue me)

Like many people on here I wish it had seperate EQ but considering how good this amp has been to me I wont complain too much.

I use seymour duncans and I've never used anything else on this amp although I bet EMGs would make it scream.

I play classic rock and '80s metal and this amp is very good for both, its distortion is strong enough although it benefits from pedals very well(MXR distortion+ in front of it and BOOM you have Randy rhodes)
Plus its clean is great for slower songs and even folk stuff.

The clean is able to stay clean alot longer than most amps and guys I know with marshalls and 5150s cant even TOUCH clean after low volumes.

The distortion is great for classic rock right off the bat, give it a boost from a pedal and you can cover any band, with a big muff you get the fuzz and with an mxr D+ you get the extra distortion needed for metal.

I have had it a year without any problems, I havent even replaced a tube yet although I can sense its coming(spiritual connect....DUH)

So far so good, its built like a tank so I doubt anything could stop it.

It saw heavy usage before I got it and sees heavier usage now and it hasnt given be a single problem(I dont even keep a spare with me)

I havent needed to call cavin although for an amp that was made in the '80s I think they would only tell me to get one of those MTS series amps.

I've been playing 5 years,
I own a couple basic guitars and enough pedals to insulate a 2 story house.

If it were stolen I'd hunt the person down and make a nice new leather amp cover...........
Of course I'd TRY to buy another, only so many left out there!

I love its ability to cover alot of sounds, I needed something that could give me marshall crunch but awesome clean.

I wish it had a million dollars stuck in the back of it but after many months of looking, I still cant find it.

UP THE IRONS!!!

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.....