Randall Amps

[boomtap]

Anybody know anything about those Randall amps where you replace the electronics boards with whatever sound you want. I think they are supposed to be tube as well. I think this is an intresting idea I would like to know if anybody has tried this.

 

[David Katauskas]

I havn't used them, but did consider it before purchasing a PSA-1. It is a very interesting concept, but kinda pricey for that type of versatility.
http://www.musiciansfriend.com/srs7/g=home/search/detail/base_pid/180275/

 

[boomtap]

I wish I could find one to play through, but most places around here don't carry them.

 

[Farview]

Having worked for Washburn (a long time ago) and worked with Randall (on the Warhead and Colossus) I can tell you that I would not buy anything from this company. They are the masters of coming up with a good idea and screwing it up by trying to make it cheap, or just getting lazy and putting it out before it is 100%. They also don't stand behind anything.

Historically, there have been things (amps, guitars, etc...) with modules to quickly change the sound. They were never very popular and, if you had one, about 2 years later, the line was dropped and you couldn't get more modules, parts or service.

It is a better idea to get an amp that gives you the sound you want. If you really need a variety of sounds, get a Pod, Tech 21 PSA-1, or something along those lines. These people are at least trying to do a good job and stand behind their stuff.

 

[boomtap]

Does Randall have ties to Mesa? I was always under the impression that they did.

 

[Farview]

NO! They are owned by Washburn. They used to be an independent company, they made the amps the Dimebag actually used. When washburn bought the company, they only bought the name. The amp designs were never part of the deal, so they started designing new amps using the Randall name. In typical fashion, they had a bunch of good ideas that they just never pulled the trigger on.

 

[boomtap]

I must be getting that because Randall Smith founded Boogie, and I figure he fouded Randall too, and that was just his budget product line. Bob Carver did this with sunfire, carver and some other brands.

Turns out Randall Instruments, Inc. was founded by Don Randall after he left CBS-Fender in 1969.

My Bad.

 

[Toki987]

NO! They are owned by Washburn. They used to be an independent company, they made the amps the Dimebag actually used. When washburn bought the company, they only bought the name. The amp designs were never part of the deal, so they started designing new amps using the Randall name. In typical fashion, they had a bunch of good ideas that they just never pulled the trigger on.

I appreciate you making that clear. Washburn never will be the company they once were. And the staff running it now is really out of it.

 

[Farview]

I appreciate you making that clear. Washburn never will be the company they once were. And the staff running it now is really out of it.

When were they good? My expreience goes back to 1988 when we would take 2nds and 'fix' the finish with magic marker and super glue. I also remember the time that customs impounded an entire shipment from korea because all the guitars had 'made in usa' stickers on them.

 

[amra]

1988 is about when Washburn bought them. I have an 1986 Randall that I wouldn't part with for anything.

Besides, I bet every guitar company, music company - heck any company that imports anything at all has lots of skeletons in the closet. You just don't know about them.

 

[boomtap]

I also remember the time that customs impounded an entire shipment from korea because all the guitars had 'made in usa' stickers on them.

That is hysterical. Sounds like they are a real reputable company...lol

 

[Farview]

1988 is about when Washburn bought them. I have an 1986 Randall that I wouldn't part with for anything.

Besides, I bet every guitar company, music company - heck any company that imports anything at all has lots of skeletons in the closet. You just don't know about them.

Washburn didn't buy Randall until the very late 90's. In 88, Washburn was distributing Laney.

 

[boomtap]

This is a randall. sample