[Harp-L] Fender RI Bassman vs. SJR 410



I toured with in the late 90's with a re-tubed 90's Fender Bassman RI (the guitarist had an endorsement so I got it for a very nice low price). I really enjoyed the sound I got with the Fender Bassman RI. After a few tours doing that and plenty of gigs around town I bought a Sonny Jr. 410. There is no comparison. The Sonny Jr. 410 wins hands down, night and day. The Sonny Jr. has monster tone and much more useable power. The bottom end is like a freight train, the response is amazing, the tone is three-dimensional and rich. Then there's the build. I cannot imagine it being any more solid. It is built to last seemingly forever. The electronic build looks like art. The speakers are fantastic. The lacquer job is absolutely beautiful. It is a golden honey color that is once again, art - and it's protective. The thing looks majestic. Ok, sorry to go over the top there, but that's the way I feel about it. I am damn proud just to look at it. And whenever I hit that first note before the downbeat, I am proud as hell to play through it.

When I bought the Sonny Jr. with my credit card, I fretted over spending so much money. Once I got it out of the box my jitters ended. I have not had one moment of regret over my purchase. I get lots of positive comments about my sound - much more now than with the Fender RI. I play in two different groups where the volume level I have to compete with is extremely high. The Sonny Jr. wins hands down there as well.

I have had occasion to speak to Sonny about the amp, tube combos, etc., and he is there for those he sells his amps to. He's a phone call or e-mail away. I even sent a track and got some constructive criticism which I put to use which has definitely served me well.

I am not the world's greatest harp player, that's for sure. But I have worked all over the place playing the harp, and having the SJR has removed the worry from the amp aspect of my setup. It is inspirational, and will keep pace with my improvements, i.e., it will never be outgrown. The only bummer about the whole thing is that now Sonny's got the Cruncher going, and until I can afford one, I will want it. As soon as I can afford it, I intend to get it.

Vince Meghrouni







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