FRFR vs. PA?

[sominator]

Hello!

 

I have a POD Go and POD Express and wondering what people use for amplification when using models. I recently played a Powercab and just loved it, but FRFRs are pretty expensive compared to PAs. (Edit: I'm under the impression that an FRFR is a PA with a flat EQ and other functionality but not sure if this is just marketing).

 

Does anyone have experience using something like this in the context of playing with other people (rehearsals, indoor/outdoor gigs, etc.)? If so, what would you recommend?

 

Thanks!

[shamasuva]

I have both a Fender FR-12 (FRFR) and a EV Z12-BT PA.  I've played other PAs (including a Behringer that I used for years).  The fender is the only FRFR I've played through.

 

I run my PodGo, a looper, and an iPad into them.  Actually now I run a mic as well. 

 

Here's what I can say about them.

 

Sound-wise, the FRFR is more amp-like.  The guitar tones I get out of it are fantastic, and it gets LOUD.  The downside is that it is not a very flat sound.  So consquently, when I'm playing general audio through it (ie a backing track, or just a song from a streaming service), the speaker does color the sound.

 

The PAs I've used are much flatter and I can run any sort of audio through my EV and have it sound great.  And, I have to say, the Pod Go sounds damn good through it as well.  The issue is volume- once I really crank the PA, the rattles and vibrations start.  I've tried a number of things to fix them but I can never get the PA even close to as loud as the FRFR.  I don't remember having that issue with my Behringer, but it was only a 10" speaker and maybe i never pushed it to the point where the components rattled.

 

Here's my take:

- If you are playing in a band with a drummer or other guitarists with tube amps, definitely get an FRFR

- If you want to use the speaker to play full frequency content (ie backing tracks, streaming music, or other) and don't have the need for huge volume, get the PA