For years bassists have been combining guitar and bass amps to remarkable effect, adding harmonics and layers of overdrive from guitar amps to their core bass tone in pursuit of the ultimate live sound. This "bi-amp" trend got the Orange engineers thinking, "Why drag two amps to the show when you could take just one?" The result is the Orange OB1-500 500W rack-mountable bass head, which takes care of this and much more. There is also a 300W version, for those who don't need quite as much punch.
The key to the OB1' unique sound is Orange's footswitchable Blend circuit, which adds a veneer of controllable gain and increased harmonic content to the upper registers of the input signal. The lower frequencies and clean signal are left alone, staying warm and clear just as they would be in a "bi-amped" setup. Depending on where the Gain and Blend controls are set, the possibilities are limitless. Punch in the Blend control to achieve anything from a transparent clean boost, to all-out filthy grind, and everywhere in between.
"Bi-Amped" Design
The OB1 splits the input instrument signal into two separate paths. One side amplifies the clean signal, with all the clarity you would expect from Orange. The other adds up to two stages of distortion to the upper harmonics only, controllable via the amp' Gain knob. These two elements are combined using the amplifier' Blend control, which adjusts the mix between clean and dirty. The Blend control can then be remotely engaged or defeated using the optional footswitch.
The Gain and Blend' range allows for almost anything, from a subtle level boost to cut through the mix, added girth and presence at moderate settings to fatten up chorus passages, to fully saturated savagery at the extremes. However you dial it, the OB1 always maintains the critical low end definition, right the way up to the most offensive settings!
Active EQ
The OB1' highly responsive active three-band EQ has been meticulously voiced for maximum effect with minimal fuss. The EQ section is located after the Gain and Blend dials take effect, allowing full control over their massive sonic range. The Bass and Middle controls feature +/-15dB of boost or cut, whilst there is a range of +/- 20dB on the Treble control.
Power: 500W
Single channel
Controls: active/passive switch, gain, blend, 3-band EQ, volume, line output
Impedance: 1x8 ohm, 2x8 ohm, 1x4 ohm
Outputs: Speakon; 1/4" out
Balanced direct output
2U rack-mountable size
Dimensions: 18.97" x 10.43" x 3.93"
Weight: 21 lb.
Get the best of both worlds. Order today!
Custom Guitar's Friend Gold Coverage
Gold Coverage goes above and beyond the manufacturer's warranty to protect your gear from unexpected breakdowns, accidental damage from handling
and failures. This plan covers your product for one, two, three or up to five years from your date of purchase, costs just pennies per day and gives you a
complete "no-worry" solution for protecting your investment.
Gold Coverage Includes:
Unexpected and unintentional spills, drops and cracks
Normal wear and tear
Power surges
Dust, internal heat and humidity
Other plan features include:
For products over $200, No Lemon Policy applies. If it fails for the same defect 3 times, it is replaced on the 4th breakdown. (Does not apply to failures due to drops, spills, and cracks)
For products under $200 experiencing the above failures, a Custom Guitar's Friend gift card will be issued for the full price of the product + tax.
Shipping fees covered if required for repair or replacement
Plans are transferable in the event merchandise is sold
Plans are renewable on new gear
*Limitations and exclusions apply. See terms and conditions for program details
Term for New Gear begins on date of purchase but does not replace the store return policy or manufacturer coverage.