Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $2,199

High-end/Boutique

$200

$801+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Gallien-Krueger 2001RB Amplifier Head". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Unleash the raw power and tonal precision of the Gallien-Krueger 2001RB Amplifier Head, a true titan among bass amplifier heads. This powerhouse delivers an impressive 1080 watts of pure bass energy, making it the perfect companion for both stage and studio sessions. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an aspiring artist, the 2001RB is designed to adapt to your musical needs with dual channels—clean and overdrive—offering a wide palette of sonic possibilities.

At the heart of this beast is a dual-mono Class H power amplifier capable of driving two independent 500W amplifiers or bridging them for a formidable single 1000W output. This flexibility ensures that whether you’re setting up a stereo rig or powering a single cabinet, your sound will be precise and unwavering. The Gate Induced Valve Effect (G.I.V.E.) technology imbues your tone with a warm, tube-like character, perfect for those seeking a classic GK sound with modern reliability.

The 2001RB isn’t just about power; it’s about control. The 4-band active EQ allows for meticulous sculpting of your tone, while the adjustable contour, presence, and 4-/5-string voicing options ensure your bass lines cut through any mix. With features like an effects loop, XLR output, and a 50-watt horn bi-amp system, this amplifier head is as versatile as it is powerful. Experience the distinct Gallien-Krueger tone that bassists worldwide trust to deliver unmatched punch and clarity.

Key Features:

  • 1080 watts or dual 540 watts, plus 50-watt horn bi-amp system
  • Dual channels: clean and overdrive
  • 4-band active EQ with contour, presence, and 4-/5-string voicing
  • G.I.V.E. Technology for tube-like warmth
  • Effects loop and tuner output with mute
  • XLR output with level, ground lift, and pre/post switch
  • speakON and 1/4" outputs

FAQs

What type of power amplifier does the Gallien-Krueger 2001RB use?

The Gallien-Krueger 2001RB features a dual-mono Class H power amplifier, allowing for efficient power delivery and dynamic performance suitable for high-output bass playing.

Can the Gallien-Krueger 2001RB operate in both bridged and dual-mono modes?

Yes, the Gallien-Krueger 2001RB can operate in either bridged or dual-mono modes, providing flexibility for different speaker configurations and performance needs.

What is the function of the voicing filters on the Gallien-Krueger 2001RB?

The voicing filters on the Gallien-Krueger 2001RB, including Bump, Contour, and Presence, allow you to shape your tone by enhancing low-end punch, midrange scoop, and high-end clarity, respectively.

Does the Gallien-Krueger 2001RB have an effects loop?

Yes, the Gallien-Krueger 2001RB includes an effects loop, enabling you to integrate external effects processors into your signal chain for enhanced tonal flexibility.

What kind of output options does the Gallien-Krueger 2001RB offer for recording or live performance?

The Gallien-Krueger 2001RB features an XLR direct output with cabinet simulation, making it ideal for direct connection to PA systems or recording interfaces, delivering consistent tone without the need for miking a cabinet.

Gallien-Krueger

Gallien-Krueger

Gallien-Krueger 2001 RB Demo by Norm Stockton

Video thumbnail for Gallien-Krueger 2001 RB Demo by Norm Stockton by Gallien-Krueger

Gallien-Krueger 2001 RB Demo by Norm Stockton

Gallien-Krueger

Gallien-Krueger

Video thumbnail for Tool bass riffs- GK 2001RB rig by TOOLbassplayer

Tool bass riffs- GK 2001RB rig

TOOLbassplayer

TOOLbassplayer

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gallien-Krueger 2001RB Amplifier Head.

User experience

  • Owners report that GK amps are generally durable and reliable, with some having used models like the 800RB and MB800 for over a decade without major issues.

    Source
  • Owners report frustration with GK's customer service and repair processes, especially concerning noise issues with newer amp models.

    Source
  • Mesa Prodigy 4 and other Mesa models are highlighted for their reliability and quiet operation, contrasting some GK models with noise issues.

    Source
  • The 2001RB is praised for its lack of noise issues, unlike newer Legacy models, which have been reported to produce noticeable hiss even with no instrument connected.

    Source
  • A user reports the 1001RB-II provides ample power when paired with an MXR M87 compressor and either a CX410 or Ampeg 8x10 cabinet.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The SWR Silverado is a favored amp for some, indicating a potential tonal preference for users coming from that background.

    Source
  • Mesa's D800+ is noted for closely emulating the GK tone, making it a potential alternative for those drawn to GK's sound.

    Source
  • The Gallien-Krueger 2001RB is favored for its power and punch, contrasting the more mellow tone of the Ashdown EVOII 500.

    Source
  • Some users report that GK amps, particularly the Backline series, were less reliable due to overseas manufacturing issues, unlike the RB and MB models which are more consistent.

    Source
  • The Ashdown EVOII 500 can achieve a distinctive breakup with overdriven gain, which some users find appealing for classic rock tones.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The mute switch on some GK amps doesn't ground the input jack, suggesting a different internal muting mechanism affecting noise control.

    Source
  • The GK 2001RB head is specifically highlighted for its compatibility with Ampeg 410 cabinets, providing a robust and pleasing sound.

    Source
  • The GK 1001RB is noted for being powerful enough to potentially overdrive and damage its own speakers at high volumes, necessitating careful EQ management.

    Source

Other

  • Users appreciate the distinctive "GK growl" for heavier music, comparing it to iconic bass tones from albums like "Appetite for Destruction".

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • GK amps are praised for their ability to maintain clarity and note definition even in dense mixes, making them suitable for heavy music styles.

    Source
  • The 1001RB-II is described as a workhorse, indicating durability and consistent performance in demanding settings.

    Source
  • Justin Chancellor uses the 2001RB-II live, suggesting its reliability and tone suit professional touring musicians.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Rex and the Bass: Gallien-Krueger 2001RB Bass Amplifier Head Review

rexbass.com

The Gallien-Krueger 2001RB Bass Amplifier Head is a sonic powerhouse, delivering a formidable output and versatile tones. Its dual-channel setup, robust EQ, and voicing filters make it adaptable for diverse genres, from rock to jazz. Despite its monstrous power, its weight is a downside, and it lacks the warmth of tube amps like the SVT. While it excels in amplifying any cabinet to its fullest, caution is advised to prevent volume creep in live settings. At a street price of $1299, it's a top-tier choice for those needing extreme output, backed by excellent customer service.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 7 Ratings

5 star
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oedipoes

Doesn’t get any better than this

The Gallien-Krueger 2001RB is the best amp in the RB series. It has some professional features that allows you to hook several of these amps ik a master-slave mode so you only power on the master, which then powers on all slaves in a controlled sequence to avoid power peaks and other issues. Incredible. This solid-state amp has 2 channels that can be either bridged (for more power) or switched (for more tonal variety). It has front to back cooling airflow as opposed to top cooling for the 700 cables and 1001 RB, that way it doesn’t require a free slot in a 19” rack flight case. Tonally this is as good as it gets. The 700 sounds good, but this packs even more tone. I tried it with a 410 RBH at rehearsal and with two Neo 4x12’s in the shop tryout room. To my complete surprise, it absolutely dwarfed all competition that I could A/B it with: Ampeg SVT-CL Classic, Ampeg SVT4Pro, Eden, Aguilar DB751 &ToneHammer, Orange AD200B, Glockenklang SteamHammer, Darkglass Alpha Omega, Hartke LH1000. Guitars used: Music Man StingRay Old Smoothie reissue limited run & a Music Man StingRay 5. Nothing sounded even close to the intensity of the 2001RB. I didn’t even care for the eq or other settings. I had just put everything (except volume) a little under 12 o’clock and it sounded excellent right away. The only one that could seduce me was the all tube Ampeg Clasic SVT reissue, albeit for a very specific rock sound, not for anything else. Waw. I did not expect that. I really hope GK releases the new RB series soon and with bi-amp please. Nothing sounds like it. It has an excellent DI built in that sounds awesome as well. This, blended with a mic’ed sound is more than you ever wished for live or in the studio. Top notch!

Preferred Settings + Usage:

It is difficult to not sound good on this amp. Read the manual for tonal options. My experience is that it sounds best with most EQ and sound controls just under 12 o’clock, except volume of course, unless you’re playing a stadium and particularly dislike the sound guys. ;-)

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Flea uses Gallien-Krueger 2001RB Amplifier Head

Flea

Bassist

Red Hot Chili Peppers

...
Verified via YouTube

4:42 into this video explaining the guitars and amps Flea uses, his tech explains: "Those are Gallien-Krueger 2001 RB. He is using 3 of them. Pretty much one controls the whole thing and feeds two others."

See how Justin Chancellor uses Gallien-Krueger 2001RB Amplifier Head

Justin Chancellor

Bassist

Tool

...
Verified via YouTube

As can be seen in the DunlopTV source, Chancellor uses the Gallien-Krueger 2001RB head.

See how Duff McKagan uses Gallien-Krueger 2001RB Amplifier Head

Duff McKagan

Singer, Guitarist

Guns N' Roses

...
Verified via Duffmckagans-rawpower

The Gallien-Krueger 2001RB Amplifier Head is also listed on the Equipment list. He also talks about his relationship with GK here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xFf8WwRAjag.

See how John Dwyer uses Gallien-Krueger 2001RB Amplifier Head

John Dwyer

Singer, Guitarist

Thee OhSees

...
Verified via Pinterest

In a photo by Jorge Thompson on Pinterest, John Dwyer is seen using a Gallien-Krueger 2001RB Amplifier Head. The image, likely from 2017 or earlier, features a distinctive number of knobs that match this amplifier model.

See how Alex Venturella uses Gallien-Krueger 2001RB Amplifier Head

Alex Venturella

Guitarist, Bassist

Slipknot

...
Verified via Photo

The newest bassist of Slipknot, Alessandro "Alex" "V-Man" Venturella posted this photo on his official instagram of his rig. The bottom 3 racks are all Gallien Krueger heads and the bottom two are Gallien-Krueger 2001RB Bass Heads.

See how Johnny Christ uses Gallien-Krueger 2001RB Amplifier Head

Johnny Christ

Bassist

Avenged Sevenfold

...
Verified via YouTube

According to Johnny Christ's guitar tech, "I beef up the clean tone with this Gallien-Kruger 2001RB," bass head.

See how Bryan Beller uses Gallien-Krueger 2001RB Amplifier Head

Bryan Beller

Bassist

Dethklok

...
Verified via Photo

"Specifically, my new full-stage rig is a GK Fusion 550, a GK 2001RB (power amp only), and two GK Neo 4×12 cabinets," Bryan Beller says, on his website.

See how Chester Hansen uses Gallien-Krueger 2001RB Amplifier Head

Chester Hansen

Bassist

BADBADNOTGOOD

...
Verified via Photo

In the photo, Chester Hansen is using two Gallien-Krueger 2001RB Amplifier Heads: one paired with an 8x10 cabinet and the other with a 1x15 cabinet.

See how Lyn-Z Way uses Gallien-Krueger 2001RB Amplifier Head

Lyn-Z Way

Bassist

Mindless Self Indulgence

...
Verified via Photo

Lyn-Z Way is seen using a Gallien-Krueger 2001RB Amplifier Head in a photo captioned "DARK SCIENCE" on Tumblr. After examining the RB series on the Gallien-Krueger website, the 2001RB model matches the amplifier in the image, particularly by the number of knobs.

See how Tim Foreman uses Gallien-Krueger 2001RB Amplifier Head

Tim Foreman

Bassist, Composer

Switchfoot

...
Verified via Photo

Tim talks about his gear in this interview. He says, "I use a Gallien-Krueger 2001RB head as a power amp for a Line 6 Bass POD."

See how Riker Lynch uses Gallien-Krueger 2001RB Amplifier Head

Riker Lynch

Singer, Bassist

R5

...
Verified via YouTube

This amp can be seen on Rikers rig on the GMA set

See how Todd Kerns uses Gallien-Krueger 2001RB Amplifier Head

Todd Kerns

Singer, Guitarist

The Age of Electric

...
Verified via BassPlayer.com

In an interview with BassPlayer.com, Todd Kerns discusses his use of the Gallien-Krueger 2001RB Amplifier Head, highlighting its role in his bass setup.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Gallien-Krueger 2001RB Amplifier Head, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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2
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2
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Gallien-Krueger Neo 412
Gallien-Krueger Neo 412 Bass Amplifier Cabinets
2
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Fender Mustang Bass Electric Basses
1

1 alternative for Gallien-Krueger 2001RB Amplifier Head, curated by the Equipboard community.

Gallien-Krueger 700RB-II

$299.00

Vintage or Discontinued cheaper alternative

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Community setups

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