Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .

Average Price: $344

Standard/Professional

$200

$801+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Unleash your bass potential with the GK400RB, a powerhouse amp head that's designed to deliver uncompromised sound and versatility. With its 280 watts of pure GK power, this bass amplifier head is perfect for the gigging musician who demands reliability and robust performance. Harnessing cutting-edge G.I.V.E. technology, the GK400RB provides a unique blend of tubularity and grit, ensuring your bass lines cut through the mix with authority.

The GK400RB is not just about power; it's about precision. The 4-band active EQ, along with contour, presence, and boost controls, give you the tools to sculpt your sound to perfection. Whether you're switching between a 4-string or a 5-string bass, the dedicated String Bass button ensures your low-end response is always optimized.

Designed with practicality in mind, the GK400RB features high current capacity and smart protection circuitry, ensuring dependable performance even under the most demanding conditions. Plus, the direct-out feature allows you to connect directly to a PA or recording console, making it an ideal choice for both live performances and studio sessions.

Key Features:

  • 280 watts of power into 4 ohms
  • G.I.V.E. technology for enhanced tubularity and grit
  • 4-band active EQ with contour, presence, and boost controls
  • String Bass button for 4- or 5-string bass optimization
  • Direct-out for PA or recording console connectivity
  • High current capacity with smart protection circuitry
  • Cool running reliability with low noise operation

Product specs

Brand Gallien-Krueger
Model 400RB
Finish Black
Year 1990s
Made In United States
Categories Bass Heads
Color Family Black
Electronics Solid State
Impedance 4 ohms, 8 ohms
Number of Channels 1 Channel
Number of Inputs 1 Input
Output Power (Watts) 400
Power Tube Type None

FAQs

What type of music is the Gallien-Krueger 400RB bass amplifier head best suited for?

The Gallien-Krueger 400RB is renowned for its punchy and articulate sound, making it ideal for rock, funk, and jazz genres where clarity and definition are crucial.

How does the Gallien-Krueger 400RB handle live performances?

With 400 watts of solid-state power, the 400RB provides ample volume and headroom for live performances, ensuring your bass cuts through the mix even in larger venues.

Does the Gallien-Krueger 400RB bass amplifier head work well with effects pedals?

Yes, the 400RB is known for taking pedals well, maintaining clarity and punch when using effects, making it a versatile choice for bassists who use pedalboards.

What are the impedance options for the Gallien-Krueger 400RB?

The Gallien-Krueger 400RB supports both 4-ohm and 8-ohm impedance, allowing flexibility in pairing with different speaker cabinets.

Is the Gallien-Krueger 400RB suitable for studio recording?

The 400RB's clear and defined sound makes it a solid choice for studio recording, offering precise tone control that captures the nuances of your playing.

Gallien-Krueger

Gallien-Krueger

Gallien-Krueger 400 RB Demo by Norm Stockton

Video thumbnail for Gallien-Krueger 400 RB Demo by Norm Stockton by Gallien-Krueger

Gallien-Krueger 400 RB Demo by Norm Stockton

Gallien-Krueger

Gallien-Krueger

Video thumbnail for 1984 Gallien-Krueger 400RB Bass Amp demo by IplayMusic2

1984 Gallien-Krueger 400RB Bass Amp demo

IplayMusic2

IplayMusic2

Video thumbnail for GK 400RB bass head w/ GK back line 410BLX cab demonstration by Certain Sparks Music

GK 400RB bass head w/ GK back line 410BLX cab demonstration

Certain Sparks Music

Certain Sparks Music

Video thumbnail for Making A Gallien Krueger 400RB Bulletproof by Brad's Guitar Garage

Making A Gallien Krueger 400RB Bulletproof

Brad's Guitar Garage

Brad's Guitar Garage

Video thumbnail for Gallien-Krueger 400RB Demo by Dan M

Gallien-Krueger 400RB Demo

Dan M

Dan M

Video thumbnail for Nordstrand NP4 - Genzler BA 410-3 - GK400RB - Galli Strings - Andy Irvine by Andy Irvine

Nordstrand NP4 - Genzler BA 410-3 - GK400RB - Galli Strings - Andy Irvine

Andy Irvine

Andy Irvine

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional sound quality with a variety of usable tones

  • Robust 200 watts that competes with louder bands

  • Smaller, lighter, and more practical than larger models

  • Classic, warm solid-state sound with a musical grit

  • Reliable performance, provided proper speaker load is maintained

  • Flexibility to mix and match speaker cabinets for different venues

  • Surprising power for its size, competes with larger amplifiers

  • Affordable pricing for the performance offered

CONS

  • Rated power modest by today's standards

  • Potential issues with oxidized effects return jack over time

  • Can sound 'loose' at near max output

  • Limited features compared to later generations

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about GK400RB.

Use cases and applications

  • When cranked without PA support, the tone can become dirty, adding a grind that some players enjoy, especially in metal settings.

    Source
  • For rehearsals, the 400RB-III with a 115 cab provides sufficient volume, but struggles in louder band settings without additional speaker support.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The 800RB is described as significantly louder than the 400RB, with a more mid-focused voicing, which may suit different musical preferences.

    Source
  • The 400RB-III head in a combo setting outputs around 185 watts to its internal speakers, making it less powerful compared to newer amps in the same category.

    Source

User experience

  • One owner has used the 400RB for 38 years without servicing, noting its reliability for outdoor events.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The 400RB is noted for its boost feature, which some owners appreciate for enhancing sound output.

    Source
  • The 400RB-III combo is capable of outputting 280 watts when paired with an additional 8-ohm speaker cabinet.

    Source
  • The amp includes a line-out feature, useful for connecting to a PA system during gigs to bolster sound output.

    Source
  • Users report that adding an 8-ohm cabinet allows the amp to operate at 4 ohms, increasing overall sound output and air movement.

    Source

Build quality

  • Some users desire rack ears to house the 400RB in a headshell, indicating a preference for a more organized setup.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The 400RB-III combo, particularly with a 210 configuration, is often found on the used market for around $400, considered a good deal by some owners.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Rex and the Bass: Gallien-Krueger 400RB Bass Amplifier Review

rexbass.com

The Gallien-Krueger 400RB is a classic amp that delivers solid performance and impressive tone for its modest weight. Users praise its reliability and smooth sound, particularly in the low and low-mid ranges, making it a favorite among gigging musicians. However, potential buyers should be aware of the variations across different series models, as features and power outputs differ significantly. While the amp shines in many aspects, its age might raise questions about durability and compatibility with modern gear. Overall, the 400RB remains a revered choice for those seeking a lightweight yet powerful bass amplifier.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

More Bass Amplifier Heads

Accessories & Related Items

Artist usage

Community setups

Similar

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    johnitals
    johnitals

    Gear IQ 316