A combo user here.
I've got a couple complaints about the stock speaeker. First, it is so freaking loud. I would love to bring the volume down a notch... The budda sounds awesome on channel 1 master turned up high but it is not reasonable with the stock speaker. (103db sensitivity)
Second, the stock speaker can sound harsh without having much sparkle, presence, and bark. It kind of sounds paradox-y but it is what it is... it pokes my ear without acheiving the good things of top end.. (what I listed. Sparkle, and presence.) I'd like them on clean channel.. but also sound closer marshally when I drive this thing. Aiming for a JMP style OD tone (I know.. EL 84, partially open back, and being a channel switcher drives this goal further away but I wanna get as close as possible haha)
My consideration has been ET65. What other options are there?
I was looking at a Green Beret as well, but 25W power handling sounds not the most ideal with the 18 watt amp. So... IDK which one to go with?
Yea ... that's exactly the way those amps have always sounded to me, too!
IMHO, there is only one choice ... and you nailed it: The ET-65 :-)
Ah... Only wish I got the answer earlier. I got a deal on an Invader 50.. I'll see how i like it
I use my Budda SD18 every day, whether it's for practice, church or a gig. I just bought an Invader 50 and Retro 30 for mine (running a 2X12 cabinet). I actually had to turn down the bass a little with the WGS speakers, but the treble is, in no way, as harsh as the Budda speakers. They need some break in time to really smooth out the treble, but you will probably find it clear and sweet, in comparison to the Buddaphat things that come stock. The SPL at 97.83 is lower than the Budda speaker as well, so it will tame the volume a bit as well.