Roland Cube 80 amp.

[Bill Shipman]

May I get opinions on using a Roland Cube 80 for a steel amp?

[Dan Beller-McKenna]

Last summer I heard Bruce Derr playing an outdoor gig. I had to walk around him to see what amp he was playing through, because it sounded to big and full to be his Cube 80. It was his Cube 80. (Maybe it's just Bruce's amazing tone, though.)

[Ollin Landers]

If you search the forum you'll find several threads discussing the Cube 80XL. I went from a NV112 to the Cube 80XL and haven't looked back.

The only complaint I have is it is a little directional and can be harsh if you're standing directly in front. I installed a homemade "Beam Blocker" to diffuse it some. I also use an open back Tommy Huff 15" Ext Cab with a TS-NEO 15 speaker. This really helps to open up the sound.

Even without all that it still sounds great.

They are not making the 80XL any more and the newer 80GX does not have the speaker out jack.

http://bb.steelguitarforum.com/viewtopi ... +cube+80xl

http://bb.steelguitarforum.com/viewtopi ... +cube+80xl

[Pete Nicholls]

I have two of the 80XL's. For larger venues I used them both in parallel and they really put out the sound. I have since acquired a rack unit and a Quilter Steelaire so not using the Roland's in parallel any more and will likely put one of them up for sale. For the smaller jobs, a single 80XL works great.

[Bill Shipman]

I have one Roland Cube 80 and have used it for several years now for my guitar. I am very happy with it and yes I agree it is a little one directional. I also have a single 15 in and open backed cabinet. Sounds great. Just wasn't sure how well it would work for steel. I want to thank everyone for your responses. I believe your replies will give me the confidence to at least use it for a while. Can't really justify spending a lot of money at this point as I am a total beginner.