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Average Price: $394

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Description

The Gallien-Krueger Backline 600 Bass Head is a powerhouse of sonic versatility, designed to cater to both the aspiring bassist and the seasoned stage performer. Delivering a robust 300 watts, this amplifier head is engineered to provide Gallien-Krueger's signature punchy tone that has become a staple for bassists worldwide. Its compact design, combined with its lightweight structure at just 16 lbs., makes it a portable option for gigging musicians who refuse to compromise on sound quality.

Equipped with an active 4-band EQ, the Backline 600 allows for precise tonal adjustments, ensuring your bass lines cut through any mix with clarity. The footswitchable overdrive adds an extra layer of grit and warmth, perfect for those moments when you need to drive your sound to new heights. The inclusion of a Boost switch mimics the sought-after valve effect, adding depth and character to your performance.

The Backline 600 also features a versatile array of connectivity options, including an effects loop, a mutable tuner output, and an XLR direct output with pre/post and ground-lift switches. These features ensure seamless integration into any setup, whether you're in the studio or on stage. With its user-friendly interface and reliable construction, the Gallien-Krueger Backline 600 Bass Head is not just an amplifier—it's your gateway to a world of sonic exploration.

Key Features:

  • 300 watts of power at 4 ohms
  • Active 4-band EQ for precise tonal control
  • Footswitchable overdrive for added versatility
  • Boost switch for valve-like effect
  • Effects loop and tuner output with mute
  • XLR direct output with ground lift and pre/post options
  • Lightweight and portable at 16 lbs.

Product specs

Brand Gallien-Krueger
Model Backline 600 2-Channel 300-Watt Bass Amp Head
Finish Black
Year 2005 - 2012
Made In United States
Categories Bass Heads
Color Family Black
Electronics Solid State
Impedance 4 ohms
Number of Channels 2 Channels
Number of Inputs 1 Input
Output Power (Watts) 300
Power Tube Type None
Reverb None

FAQs

What kind of sound can I expect from the Gallien-Krueger Backline 600 Bass Head?

The Gallien-Krueger Backline 600 offers a solid-state tone with a clean, punchy sound. It provides a versatile range of tones suitable for various genres, from rock to jazz, with its 4-band active EQ and contour control.

Is the Gallien-Krueger Backline 600 Bass Head suitable for live performances?

Yes, with its 300-watt output, the Gallien-Krueger Backline 600 is powerful enough for small to medium-sized live performances. It delivers ample volume and headroom, ensuring your bass is clearly heard in a band setting.

Does the Gallien-Krueger Backline 600 have any built-in effects?

The Gallien-Krueger Backline 600 does not include built-in effects. However, it offers an effects loop for integrating external effects pedals or processors into your setup.

What is the impedance of the Gallien-Krueger Backline 600 Bass Head?

The Gallien-Krueger Backline 600 operates at an impedance of 4 ohms, which is ideal for pairing with a variety of bass cabinets to achieve optimal performance.

Can I use the Gallien-Krueger Backline 600 Bass Head with a 5-string bass?

Yes, the Gallien-Krueger Backline 600 is capable of handling the extended low frequencies of a 5-string bass, providing clear and defined tones across all strings.

IplayMusic2

IplayMusic2

Gallien-Krueger Backline 600 GK Bass Amplifier Ebay Video

Video thumbnail for Gallien-Krueger Backline 600 GK Bass Amplifier Ebay Video by IplayMusic2

Gallien-Krueger Backline 600 GK Bass Amplifier Ebay Video

IplayMusic2

IplayMusic2

Video thumbnail for A Look at the Gallien Krueger Backline 600 Bass Head and Peavey 4x10 & 2x10 VTX Cabs by JandW Music

A Look at the Gallien Krueger Backline 600 Bass Head and Peavey 4x10 & 2x10 VTX Cabs

JandW Music

JandW Music

Video thumbnail for Sterling SUB Ray through Gallien Kruger Backline 600 Dirty Channel by 1thess523

Sterling SUB Ray through Gallien Kruger Backline 600 Dirty Channel

1thess523

1thess523

Reviews

PROS

  • Mellower sound compared to GK RB400, fitting certain music styles better

  • Compact size with powerful output, effectively delivering more watts than advertised

CONS

  • Quality control issues with noisy pots and switches

  • Possible reliability concerns due to manufacturing location

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gallien-Krueger Backline 600 Bass Head.

Features and functionality

  • The amp's tuner output remains functional, even when other outputs fail, highlighting a potential diagnostic feature for troubleshooting.

    Source

User experience

  • Tapping the amp's top casing can temporarily restore function, suggesting internal connection issues might be common.

    Source
  • Owners appreciate the specific tone quality of the Backline 600, which some find preferable over the tonal characteristics of the SVT 3pro.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Basic maintenance, particularly cleaning the pots, resolved sound issues for one owner, indicating potential dirt-related failures.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Ampeg SVT 3pro, while suitable for rock gigs, lacks the versatile and clean tone that the GK Backline 600 offers, according to an experienced user.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Backline 600 has been effectively used for over 15 years in smaller clubs and musical theater settings, highlighting its reliability in intimate environments.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Backline 600 Review: For fast paced thrashing gore and death songs, the amp tends... | Gallien-Krueger | Bass Amplifiers | Reviews @ Ultimate-Guitar.Com

ultimate-guitar.com

The Gallien-Krueger Backline 600 Bass Head offers solid power for its price, making it a suitable entry-level choice for musicians on a budget. However, its tonal flexibility is lacking, with limited EQ shaping capabilities, necessitating external pedals for better sound quality. While the amp's compact and sturdy design is commendable, it suffers from overheating issues, particularly in warmer climates, which may require additional cooling measures. Overall, it delivers good value for beginners or those needing a reliable backup, but seasoned players might find its sound and durability concerns limiting.

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 7 Ratings

5 star
4 star
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2 star
1 star
martin_boesvang

Small but good amp

Really good small amp that sounds extremely well and beats the 350 watts out like it was 500

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Dominick De Kauwe uses Gallien-Krueger Backline 600 Bass Head

Dominick De Kauwe

Bassist

Red Handed Denial

...
Verified via Photo

in this post dom shows his gallien kruger bass head that he uses

See how John Powers uses Gallien-Krueger Backline 600 Bass Head

John Powers

Bassist

...
Verified via Photo

Left side of photo shows amp and cabinet.

See how Noah Dombroski uses Gallien-Krueger Backline 600 Bass Head

Noah Dombroski

Bassist

The Custodians

...
Verified via Instagram

In this Custodians Instagram Reel, Noah Dombroski goes in depth on his bass rig.

So, my amp is a Gallien-Kruger Backline 600, my cabinet is a Mark Bass 4x10, and my bass is a Squier Affinity Series PJ with Seymour Duncan pickups.

Genre Usage

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Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Gallien-Krueger Backline 600 Bass Head, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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