Sunday 29 September 2013

Welcome to the Portaflex

Ampeg Portaflex 

I tried one of these on my visit to the Sam Ash Bass Lounge in NYC and instantly fell in love with it. 

You would be easily forgiven for thinking these cabinets, with the flip top to reveal the amp on the other side of the lid, are a smart new innovation. However, these are based on the original B-15 Ampeg Portaflex from 1962. These amps are the stuff of legends for recorded bass, James Jamerson and Chuck Rainey are just two names to have used this in the studio. Since Ampeg stopped their production in 1971 they have become much sort after with a price tag to match. In 2011 Ampeg produced a limited run in their Heritage series, complete with an all valve head as per the original. Along with more affordable 1x15, 2x10, 350 & 500 watt configurations the Portaflex looks here to stay. The tone of these units is that sweet bass classic Ampeg tone, however armed with a very capable and adjustable tweeter modern brighter tones are just a short dial away. 

I loved it so much, I bought one!


Ultimate Tone! Ampeg & Hofner.

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