Ceriatone Forum

Hi All, new guy here - preparing to buy a Ceriatone HRM

I've been very torn between HRM and HRM BM, and I want to check in here before bothering Nik with more emails.

Regarding differences between models, Nik menioned in our correspondence: 'The BM's OD isnt as gainy as the HRM. The MK2 also doesn't have that gainy an OD, it's a bit akin to the BM, gain wise, but a bit smoother. It also runs EL34s, altho 6l6gcs can also be used. If you want tighter OD that's also gainier, I'd go with HRM still. The BM's is more like a fender or marshall that's cranked up, but of course, better than those. The HRM is more "liquid" so to speak.We can also install a mod to defeat the OD's tonestack, giving it yet more gain.

I really like the idea gainer and smoother idea of the HRM, though the Fendery clean and breakup of the Bluesmaster also seem very appealing.. I'm leaning toward the BM with c-lator though I'm still going back and forth :-\ Are the bluesmaster's cleans more twinnish than HRM?

Nik has mentioned some mod options "We can indeed add some mods like 3 way mid boost, add snubbers, LNFB switch..."
 
The tonestack defeat seems popular and well reviewed, so I'd probably opt for that. As far as snubbers, 3 way mid boost, and LNFB switch, are any of those options recommended? I love blues, rock and hard rock - not necessarily chasing Ford or Carlton tones per se; I also want a flexible overdrive with beautiful sonic complexities.. if that makes any sense..

Any recommendations are highly appreciated - Thanks!

I have a HRM 50, never played a BM HRM. From what I've read and also my experience with the HRM I would say that it is the most versatile of the two. But, like I said never played the BM

As far as mods on the HRM. The LNFB is more subtle, but very worth having. It's something that doesn't interfer with circuit when it's off. I have gone back and forth about adding snubbers on V2, but have decided against it everytime I think I'm going to try it. To me the no snubbers on the OD is one of the major differences from the OTS. I don't have the 3-way mid boost, but it seems like it's would be a good mod. The HRM defeat seems like a logical mod also, but I certainly would want to have the ability to have the HRM tone stack. I see many owners complain about the HRM tonestack, but I find it very useful and am happy with the PAB taking out the clean tonestack.

Basically, I can say for sure that you can't go wrong with the HRM. It's the best amp I've ever played.  8)

The BM is just how Nik describes it. I have the HRM stack swtichable, and it is two very different sounds; it is more smooth with HRM stack on more dirty and raw with it off. I like both settings, but usually stick with HRM off, just a personal preference.

Gregg

My 50w HRM has the LNFB mod. I like it.  That amp is wonderfully versatile.  Am running vintage 12ax7's and el34's, simply gorgeous singing!