Is the Matrix GT1000FX still the best Solid State guitar power amp in 2023?

OrganicZed said:
The bottom line is that too much power into a speaker is the issue. There happen to be several ways to achieve that undesirable outcome and using an under powered amplifier is only one of those ways.
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For instance a lightning strike will do it every time.
:cool:
 
What makes the Matrix a great amp for this specific situation is a combination of factors. This could change depending on the individual but for me its the following:
  • It is class AB. Has ample transient energy storage and is able to quickly deliver large jumps in signal so chugs feel like they’re supposed to.
  • It has pretty decent flat frequency response in the key range for guitar reproduction.
  • the 1000fx only takes a single rack of space
  • It’s VERY light weight due to the power supply design (I think it’s a borrowed design from those incredible 80’s Carver hifi amps)
  • Even at current used prices, they’re pretty affordable

There may be other amps that check all these boxes or perhaps some of these aren’t super important to you I can only say for sure is that my matrix sounds worlds better than the power section of my boss tube amp expander attenuator.
 
Hey guys sorry for my question. Grateful if anyone could guide me alittle. I'm expecting to receive a matrix gt1000fx but it's run at 110v while my location runs at 230v. I understand I would need a step up transformer but I'm just clueless what wattage should the transformer be. Grateful if you guys could point me to the right direction. Many thanks!
 
Space Helicopter said:
It should have an internal switch to switch between 120v and 230v power. I’m pretty sure they all have them (mine does). Just switch that and replace the fuse for the correct value.
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Thanks much! Let me look out for the switch when I receive the unit tomorrow.
 
Space Helicopter said:
It should have an internal switch to switch between 120v and 230v power. I’m pretty sure they all have them (mine does). Just switch that and replace the fuse for the correct value.
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hey man, is the switch inside the unit? i dont see such a switch on the exterior casing of the unit.
 
Thanks so much @Space Helicopter @Ole ! you guys really save my day from scouting around for a heavy ass transformer! found the switch!
Im so sorry to trouble you all again. Totally new to this. Im using a FM9 and a Mesa 1x12 8ohm 90W cabinet (mono input). Would like to run by you guys if the connections are correct:

  • FM9 output into Input A of Matrix GT1000FX (can I ask should be lever switch be set at Stereo, Parallel or Bridge?)
  • Output A of Matrix GRT1000FX into Mesa cabinet

Grateful for your help really guys!
 
teof said:
Thanks so much @Space Helicopter @Ole ! you guys really save my day from scouting around for a heavy ass transformer! found the switch!
Im so sorry to trouble you all again. Totally new to this. Im using a FM9 and a Mesa 1x12 8ohm 90W cabinet (mono input). Would like to run by you guys if the connections are correct:

  • FM9 output into Input A of Matrix GT1000FX (can I ask should be lever switch be set at Stereo, Parallel or Bridge?)
  • Output A of Matrix GRT1000FX into Mesa cabinet

Grateful for your help really guys!
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You might find this useful...... https://www.g66.eu/images/Manuals/matrix/matrix_gt1000fx1u.pdf ........especially page 7.
 
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teof said:
Thanks so much @Space Helicopter @Ole ! you guys really save my day from scouting around for a heavy ass transformer! found the switch!
Im so sorry to trouble you all again. Totally new to this. Im using a FM9 and a Mesa 1x12 8ohm 90W cabinet (mono input). Would like to run by you guys if the connections are correct:

  • FM9 output into Input A of Matrix GT1000FX (can I ask should be lever switch be set at Stereo, Parallel or Bridge?)
  • Output A of Matrix GRT1000FX into Mesa cabinet

Grateful for your help really guys!
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Somehow I don't get any output from Channel A when connecting to Input A on Matrix and Output A of Matrix to Mesa Cab. However, I do get output from Channel B when connecting to Input B on Matrix and Output B of Matrix to Cab. I'm really hoping that Channel A is defective.

Also, at half volume on Channel B of Matrix, the volume seems softer than when Im at half volume of the Seymour Duncan Powerstage 200 that I have. Both using the same preset.
 
I had this poweramp (Gt1000FX) my experience is that you have to have the volume very high (on the pots) to get any good signal out of it. Don't no why that is. When i changed to my SD powerstage 170 the volume was instantly there. I think it's due to input sensitivity on the input stage.
Maybe someone else can explain it better...
 
teof said:
Somehow I don't get any output from Channel A when connecting to Input A on Matrix and Output A of Matrix to Mesa Cab. However, I do get output from Channel B when connecting to Input B on Matrix and Output B of Matrix to Cab. I'm really hoping that Channel A is defective.

Also, at half volume on Channel B of Matrix, the volume seems softer than when Im at half volume of the Seymour Duncan Powerstage 200 that I have. Both using the same preset.
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Change it to stereo mode (on the gt) then you can check if one of the channels is kaput -> input a -> output A / -> input b -> output B
 
Does anyone know the straight story on Matrix as a company? Are these guys still in business? Seems like supply chain issues should be long resolved to be able to manufacture GT1000fx units.
 
FWIW, I contacted Matrix UK in June and didn´t receive any answer.
They didn´t have any PA amps for sale for at least two years now.
 
Go for it if it's priced decently.

Definitely not king for everyone but I does the job really well for me.
I put it up against my Mesa 2:90 and it really held up quite well. (Not the same ofcourse, but it's 30 pounds lighter.. and NO maintenance costs)

I do have the GT1600FX (and I got this for 300 euros in mint condition, bargain) in a rack with my AXE3.
This is a superb flexible combination and plenty powerful. I use this setup for 2 metalcore guitar players (or 1 guitar/bass) and works perfectly.
I could also just use it for a stereo cab setup without any rerouting.

pro tip: keep the volumes on the Matrix high (let's say 2/3 o clock or like 7/10). Adjust your output using the AXE3 controls.
 
Another alternate suggestion for those who aren't afraid of used but superior products:
The QSC CX502 is the equivalent of a GT1000FX power-wise but with better components. They used to sell for close to $2k. You can find them on eBay for around $250.
Not exactly plug and play though, as you need to convert from barrier-strip to TS. Also not as light, but built with serious components that will last. Has a nice power limiter too to prevent you from blowing your speakers.
 
Still have my Matrix GT1000, but haven’t been using it since I went to in-ear monitors a few years ago. Still have my Matrix CFR12’s as well, just in case I ever need to use them. I love that combination!
 
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