Quilter Steelaire vs. Tone Block 202

Garry Pugh · Post by **Garry Pugh** » 29 May 2023 6:01 am

I have a Quilter Tone Block 202 with a 12 inch cabinet, which I really like.

I been looking at the Quilter Steelaire Rackmount.

Does anyone have any experience in comparison of these 2 amps?

Jack Stoner · Post by **Jack Stoner** » 29 May 2023 7:52 am

I had a steelaire rackmount. "Had" is the key. My opinion it can't compete with the TB202. The TB202 FullQ is similar to the Steelaire. The TB202 also has Vint which gives a "Fenderish" sound.

I have the full TT12 which is the best pedal steel amp I've had since a late 60's AB768 SF Twin Reverb.

Chuck Blake · Post by **Chuck Blake** » 30 May 2023 10:39 am

Garry
I owned both the TB202 and the Steelaire (actually 2 Steelaires).

I found the Steelaire to be sterile with regard to tone. ...after hearing the TB202 I sold both of my Steelaires and now use with TB202 with various cab/speaker combinations that I build.
It's the nearest sound I can achieve to a Twin Reverb....and not mention weight.

Bryce Van Parys · Post by **Bryce Van Parys** » 31 May 2023 10:58 am

I listened to the forum and got a toneblock 202 and couldn't be happier. The fender tone is great for guitar. The middle switch best for my Mullen with 705 PU. I even practice bass through it with great results. I'm using a Raezer's edge wizard single 10 and it works perfect. I could try different cabs, but I only play E9 and it does the job in a lightweight compact package. I use the SIM out for the house, and sometimes I just mic the cab. I'm still experimenting live for best results there

David Wren · Post by **David Wren** » 1 Jun 2023 8:13 am

I own both, but my 202 is in the TT-15 cab.

I think Jack's comment about the FullQ setting sounding much like the Steelaire is right on, .... and I kept my Steelaire 'cause I've had much success with it over the years...

but, if I was going buy one or the other, I'd invest in the 202.... more compact, sounds great, and the steelaire is much older.

My $0.02 worth

Dale Rottacker · Post by **Dale Rottacker** » 2 Jun 2023 7:05 am

I too have/had both the Rackmount and the 202 Combo with both a 12" & 15" cabinet.

I thought the Rackmount was a really nice unit and and maybe the best onboard Reverb I'd heard ... I especially liked the ability to shape the reverb with Tone and Tail. Would I buy this because of the great Reverb? No!!! ... I use a Benado Steel Dream and many use these as well as Rev/Delay pedals.

As for the 202 Combo, they're just really hard to beat for a grab and go unit. Ton's of power, the ability to change the "Voice" w/FREQ/Full/Vintage, and its near impossible to set the Bass/Mids/Treble to get anything but a GOOD sound. This thing just sounds GREAT. And again, one of the nicest onboard Reverb, though a non-shapable one. IF you didn't want to drag a pedal or Benado along with you, you'll still be happy with what comes in this package.