Is the Phil Jones Cub 100 loud enough to gig with a band?
Might be a worthwhile purchase in the future as I have a piezo on my Gus G1 as well as a pickup on my Alhambra classical guitar. Seems like a really portable clean amp option.
I've not had cause to try it in that manner yet, as I am still a novice to arranging 'standards' - and learning the whole genre.
However; I gather from users on various Jazz guitar forums, that on it's own it is great for a small band / trio , especially in a more intimate setting , but for a larger 'Swing Band' the D.I. socket on the back ( complete with a ground lift switch ) may need to be fed into the collective P.A.
The character of the Cub ( being squarely aimed at the Acoustic Guitarist / Jazzer / Violinist ) is that of
not seeming to make the guitar louder - but the guitar just keeps getting
bigger . It is rated at 100 watts RMS - but as you know, that specification is no indicator of an amp's actual volume, especially as an amp such as this has an E.Q that is relatively neutral with no discernable mid range emphasis
unless you dial it in as such. If you think of it being used by violinists - you will get the idea. No surprise that Phil Jones is known for high end Hi-Fi speakers e.t.c. - as it excels at creating the sensation of giving you growing
presence in the room, as opposed to pushing
at you.
That being understood, the whole " loud enough for ? " question , would have to be replaced by " Does it sound big enough for ". My own needs / intention is now to spend the next year or two compiling a repetoire of 'Standards' - so as it fills a small - medium sided room at only 25 - 30 % of it's output - I'm a happy bunny.
For me, this is a little treasure ; because it lends itself
specifically to the sonic task in hand - and it can be fed into the P.A. on that rare occasion it may be needed . The essential character of the little chap, is not at all sterile , with a very warm and valve like response - and to my ears, MUCH clearer , less 'blocky' and much more 3 dimensional than the 'Jazzkat ' I once tried, and Polytones I have heard. The sound it gives me ( and my 'test' listeners ) being so intimate and fine grained, that you ( and they ) end up getting drawn into every note. The choice was of course sealed , when I could carry my entire 'Rig' around in one ( provided ) shoulder bag.
Horses for courses, and this ( Like the B.K.P Manhattans I use to feed it ) makes no compromises that might sell it
to a wider ' All things to all people' market.
