Advice on beginner combo

[stickm8]

Hey guys
Im starting to upgrade from my beginner set (10 watt amp and a Chinese cheap bass). I've just bought a used Ibanez ICB300EX (iceman) and im looking to upgrade my amp, but im lost in this area.

Im not looking for a massive stack, a small combo will be fine so far im thinking of the: Galien Kruger Backline 112, Peavey Max 115, Hartke A70 or maybe even the Ashdown 115 Minirig or if i really stretch the budget the ampeg ba115. Size isnt a massive issue i just need something that can keep up with a drumkit and maybe play a couple of small parties, im more looking at the sound.

Sorry if i sound like a complete idiot but if anyone has advice on any of these amps or something in a similar price range it be greatly appreciated

Thanks

[Turock]

If I were in the market for a combo, I'd have to seriously consider the Ampeg BA115 on sale at Amazon for $279.

Amazon.com: Ampeg BA115 BassAmp Series 1x15 Solid State Bass Combo Amplifier, 100 Watt: Musical Instruments

[waleross]

The best advice I can give is for you to take your bass to a music store and plug in. If you have a Guitar Center near you then go there. Play what you can and let your ears decide . I prefer a combo with a 15" speaker but that is me, this is your call and your money. I am familar with Fender and Ampeg products but you have to get what you like and will make good use of. Have fun and good luck

[Tinderbox]

Also consider how loud the drummer is playing. I've kept up with a jazzier drummer with only a 25w Fender Bassman, but been drowned out by a heavier, cymbal smashing, drummer with the Ampeg BA115.

That being said, the Ampeg had a surprising amount of tonal control. The guy who owned it and I had completely different needs and were both able to get a good sound out of it. Real nice amp. Turock's Amazon link looks like a good deal too.

[stickm8]

Thanks everyone for you help, unfortunately i live in australia so the of the two guitar shops i have theres not a great variety to try (ones pointless togo to, no service). Anyway i was hoping on some general ideas on peoples experiences with any of these amps. I forgot to mention the drummer plays fairly hard but hey anything better then my 10watt peavey. Thanks everyone for the help, noobs around everywhere thank you, keep it up

[Holliwood]

If you can try a Bass Master 400/15 combo you won't be disappointed.
Very nice small package and more than capable for your purpose.

[CL400Peavey]

Originally Posted by stickm8

Thanks everyone for you help, unfortunately i live in australia so the of the two guitar shops i have theres not a great variety to try (ones pointless togo to, no service). Anyway i was hoping on some general ideas on peoples experiences with any of these amps. I forgot to mention the drummer plays fairly hard but hey anything better then my 10watt peavey. Thanks everyone for the help, noobs around everywhere thank you, keep it up

Do you have any options to buy used? You can get a much better deal that way. If not, look for more cone surface for volume than wattage behind it. You will be able to play as loud as your speakers let you, before they start to fart out and distort (which is dangerous for the health of your combo). Personally if you are looking for small and light, I would recommend you find two 210 cabs that are matched and pick up one of the new micro heads in what ever manufacturing flavor you have available. Those two cabs stacked vertically will be louder than any combo you find regardless of price.

[Papa Dangerous]

GK MB 115 or GK MB 112

[stickm8]

Originally Posted by CL400Peavey

Do you have any options to buy used? You can get a much better deal that way. If not, look for more cone surface for volume than wattage behind it. You will be able to play as loud as your speakers let you, before they start to fart out and distort (which is dangerous for the health of your combo). Personally if you are looking for small and light, I would recommend you find two 210 cabs that are matched and pick up one of the new micro heads in what ever manufacturing flavor you have available. Those two cabs stacked vertically will be louder than any combo you find regardless of price.

Unfortunatly used is really expensive around hear (i can see a minimum $2000 for a used cab and head) but thanks for the advice, i didnt even consider cone size before but what your saying makes a lot of sense. The sort of cab head thing around is the new ashdown one but ill definatly keep browsing thanks