Hi! I've been reading the forum and watching the videos, but still can't make up my mind. Any advice?
Current Gear - Jet City JCA22H (20w head), Egnater Tourmaster 4x12 cabinet, Digitech RP1000 modeling and effects pedal (I use my RP1000 amp models via the 4 cable method to skip the pre-amp section and go straight to the power tubes.) Strat with Texas Specials and Pearly Gates (Blues and Classic Rock). Ibanez s420 with Dimarzio John Petrucci Set + True Velvet middle (Hard Rock and Metal).
Playing styles - WIDE variety! No need for ultra cleans, but I do enjoy amp models for SRV, Clapton, Hendrix, Zeppelin, AC/DC, Van Halen, Metalica (you get the picture).
Goal#1 - Best speaker (in terms of wattage) for a 18-30 watt EL84 head and all-around match for various styles. The V30s sound good, but I play at volumes around 25-40% of the master volume and feel like I'm probably not getting the full potential out of my 75w Vintage 30s. BTW, I like the sound of the Reapers on the Reapers vs. Green Beret comparison.
Goal #2 - I would like to purchase 2 speakers to start with, then if everything goes well, purchase another 2 later. What 2 would be a best all around match for the Vintage 30's now? Then later, what speakers to get when I replace the other 2 V30s down the road (that would be a best match for the two I'm buying now?
I realize this is a lot to ask, both of you and of my speakers! Thank you so much for this forum and your advice!
Since you'll be replacing 2 of the 4 ... and it sounds like Vintage 30's are in the Egnater 4x12 ... and you say you like the Reapers ... Then I'd say go for a pair of Reapers (not HP or 55hz!). The main difference you will notice is that the cab will become warmer and rounder, and will loose much of the V30's ice-pick upper mids.
If you start with Reapers now, you may like the combo so well that you don't want to change anything after that. If you do want to eventually boot the V30's ... then I'd recommend Retro 30's ...
I'll order a pair of Reapers and let you know how it sounds!
Thanks!