Scene: Local repair shop. about 3 weeks ago
Context: 1000S, Peavy 5150(special model, forgot actual designation,) Krankenstein, Mesa Boogie Triple rectumfryer. All 100-120W rated. All going using the same cab, cables, and Ax(Les Paul Studio, stock,) in their quest for the Crown.
Each one was warmed up and played through, using different volume, tone settings, reverb and tremolo(if equipted,) and all channels(when applicable.) No effects used of any kind.
Conclusion: The Sunn placed last in the Distort dept, no suprise there, it was not designed to be "hi-gain". It was the loudest judging by ear, all agreed.
It also had a hard-to-describe quality of sound. One could use the phrase "intangable, yet, there."
While you heard the others, the Sunn had a "depth" you felt as well as heard.
In opinion of those there, it was also the "warmest sounding" and had the best "throttle response."
The lack of distortion, can be remided with a $200-500(new) tube mud-box like a Vox Bulldog, Duncan Pre-amp, Bad Cat, V-twin, or any other of the many exceptional products available.
When asked about mod'ing the other amps sound "quality" to match the Sunns. the owner said "very expensive if at all possible."
Myself I use a Vox Bulldog with my 1000S, with its two distinctive channels and true bypass, combined with the reverb and tremolo circuits(I have the footswitch) I can get many great tones from " 50's Surf to Speed Metal."
As far as the heads natural drive. Using a Les Paul and adjusting the volume and tone controls, I can easily get the "Woman Tone" from "Sun(n)shine of your love" or Jimmy Page on "Communication Breakdown" just to name two, in fact I get an even deeper tone for those two songs.
About the only thing it won't do is 80's "glam-metal." No matter what you plug in. No great loss to me there.
Children of the SUNN are on to something.
