AER amps

dfisher · #1 05-15-2003, 04:43 PM

I am looking to get an acoustic amp for my 614-CE and seriously considering an AER 40 or 60 watt amp. The main reason for this is because I am planning on going overseas (Africa) in the near future on a long term trip (3-4 years). The relative size of a 15-18 pound amp is something I need to ponder. I love the acoustasonic and SWR sound but their weight is a big factor for me. Just wondering if anyone has had any personal experience with the AER sound. Thanks in advance. By the way, what a message board and what awesome guitars Taylor makes.

don

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cpmusic · #2 05-15-2003, 05:05 PM

I've only played AER amps in a local store, but they sound fantastic there. They've also got nice features. Their only real drawback is their price, which is kind of steep compared to Ultrasound and others of similar power.

dfisher · #3 05-15-2003, 05:44 PM

I hear what you are saying but size is a "major" factor when packing up your stuff and moving overseas. I have a Telecaster with a Fender Ultimate Chorus amp which I really enjoy but don't think either will make the trip with me. If I were staying stateside, I would be looking at the Fender Acoustasonic Pros which I played in New Jersey last fall. That was a beautiful amp but it has been discontinued. You can still find them on ebay but it weighs 45 pounds which is why I am not looking there. The prize on the Taylor was pretty steep but everyone on this forus knows how much they give back. Blessings.

don

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cpmusic · #4 05-15-2003, 07:59 PM

I hear you, Don. And believe me, that Acoustasonic won't sound so great once you hear an AER. It's clear, clean, and very transparent, like a good PA in a very small box. Best of luck on your trip!

brettster · #5 05-15-2003, 10:18 PM

i swapped my maton guitar for an EAR domino,
best thing i ever did.
you wont regret buying one mate.

ray · #6 05-15-2003, 10:30 PM

the ultrasound 30 or 50 available from fqms.com or guitargal.com... both hard to beat for sound, with small size, and very reasonable for price too.

Ian · #7 05-16-2003, 01:52 AM

how much were you qouted for the compact 60?
i love the sound of the AER but many a TGFs rave about the ultrasound and that it works wonderfully with the ES
also we have a Ultrasounds rep right here in our very forum!
very nice guy!

cpmusic · #8 05-16-2003, 08:57 AM

Ultrasound makes an excellent amp at a very good price, and for the money, it's probably what I'd consider, though I like the AER better. The thing about the AER is that (I think) all their models are equipped for low or high impedance input, while the low-end Ultrasounds are high-impedance only. One or more of the AERs also has built-in phantom power, and one has internal, rechargable batteries for cordless use up to three hours.

I don't recall the prices, but a trip over to fqms.com will show you at least the list price for both brands. You might have to call for the retail price.

flatpicknut · #9 05-16-2003, 09:36 AM

I've never seen a bad review of the AERs.

Ian · #10 05-19-2003, 02:01 AM

it seems that AER amps use compression
while ultrasound doesn't

dfisher · #11 05-23-2003, 09:10 AM

Thanks for all the input. My amp fund is slowing starting to build. It is taking a hit because I'm ordering a video series put out by Francis Schaeffer. If you are familiar with any of his stuff, you know it will still be worth the wait for the amp. I received a couple of quotes from Elderly on the AER's. Looks like I will save up for a Compact 60 in the price range of 800-900 or so. I am also on the lookout for one of them used. Take care.

don
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The Doc · #12 05-24-2003, 05:35 AM

Morning Don,

The AER is indeed a great amp and I have nothing but nice things to say about them. If you look at the UltraSound 50DS2 we can always modify it for you so you can use either 120 or 220 for a nominal charge.

Have a great day and call me with any questions.

The Doc
888-308-1557