Hi, i have owned a few 80watt+ solid state amps and i have hated the tone from them. I have recently been considering a tech 21 trademark 60 or the roland cube 60. But it has been suggested to me that i try and get hold of a cheap second hand all tube amp.

The peavey classic 30 is available to me but i am not sure it would be right for me.

First of all the sound......i play mostly high gain metal it has to be said, will this amp deliver any good high gain sounds? is there any way i can make it do so if it can't straight out of the box? Also what is this amp like in general?

Secondly i know nothing about tube amps, do they need a lot of maintenence? is maintenence expensive? how long do tubes last? etc etc, really i know nothing so if anyone can help me out and give their thoughts and some tips it would be much appreciated.

thanks

http://www.blueshawk.info/peavey_classic_30.htm
theres a link for some info on the amp. I don't know how reliable it is but I hope it helps.

As for maintanace. I would have to say aside from being more fragile than solid state amps they're really not that much harder to maintain. I've been told tubes last about a year or so before they need to be replaced(there are many variables as to how long they'll last though). I've had my amp for a little under a year so I couldn't tell you quite yet. I've also been told tubes are about 30$ each. I would still have to say even if they are a little more expensive they're most definately worth the extra cash and slightly more maintainance.
I would have to also recommend to you the Randall RG50TC all tube combo. I've got one and it covers the high gain stuff great(IMO).

Well said,and yes the rg50 is recomendable,and cheap too.

you'll definately want a boost pedal to go with the classic 30 if you go that route... great cleans, good overdrive... but not a high gain amp.

__________________