Crate Updates BT Series, Adds New BT220 Combo

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New at Winter NAMM was Crate's redesigned BT series of bass combo amps featuring new functions and cosmetics. All models feature rugged Ozite covering and heavy-duty steel grille. Combos above 25 watts now offer a built-in tuner, two channel operation for clean and distortion tones, a variable sub-octave feature and RCA CD input jacks.

The flagship of the new line is the BT220, a 220-watt single 15" combo amp offered for the first time this year. It features Input pad and Mute for tuning, distortion and clean channels with 4 band EQ, CD inputs and headphone jack. Rear panel features include: an effects loop with send and return, external speaker jack, and an XLR balanced line out with level control, ground lift and "pre" or "post" EQ selection switch. Heavy duty side handles and a two button metal footswitch for channel / octave switching and removable casters are also standard.

The BT100 is also new and has the same electronics features as the BT220 in a more compact single 15" enclosure and lower power rating. The BT50 and BT25 have 12" and 10" speakers respectively, and also include the distortion, sub / octave features. The BT15 completes the line, and includes 15 watts, four bands of EQ, CD input and extension speaker and headphone jacks.

For more information, visit their web site at www.crateamps.com.