Advise on picking up a larger combo amp

evito · #1 11-29-2011, 02:52 PM

So after a few years on hiatus, it looks as though I might start playing somewhat regularly again. Unfortunately, I sold off my Aguliar rig when I stopped playing.

I have my Eden Nemesis NA-120 (2X8's), which I brought to the first practice and I got drowned out by both guitar players (I thought that might happen). So now I am looking for either a combo amp or a small amp/cab that wont break the bank and can fit into the back seat of a 4 door sedan.

We are playing 90's rock/alternative/grunge type of music.

Any ideas?

RickenBoogie · #2 11-29-2011, 02:54 PM

Yes, first, shop for used gear. Second, find an amp in the 300-500 watt range, and pair it with a good 4x10 bass cab. If you're patient, you can do this for around $500, if in a hurry, a bit more.

Russell L · #3 11-29-2011, 02:55 PM

Check out some of the GK MB combos. They're very affordable. A 15" and 200w (or more) will go a long way.

zon6c-f · #4 11-29-2011, 02:59 PM

I own Acoustic B200 Combo: 200 watts @ 4 ohms, 1-15 and tweeter, line out, 6 band semi-parametric with mid sweep. Plenty for practice and perfoprmance; Well under $400 at GC or MF.

OR: Acoustic 200-Hand cab or cabs. Same controls. A little more expensive, but actually easier to carry as head is light, cab is light, whereas the combo is a little on the heavy side..I am 59.

**nervous** · #5 11-29-2011, 03:00 PM

I personally wouldn't (and haven't) go the combo route. Seems a bit limiting in the long run to me. After that the options are many. In a similar situation to your I have now scaled back to a GK MB500 that fits in an Anvil briefcase and an Avatar B210 NEO. Plenty of sound and I am not even pushing that yet. If I add a second I can't see needing much more. With PA support it's probably all I need. I also have a Bergantino HS410 at home for a bigger need that fits easily in the rear of my Subaru Forester and is a very managable size and weight. I have a GB Streamliner 900 OTW and at 6.5# could be a monster. I have used 1 or 2 Bergantino HT/EX 112 cabs in the past with a Markbass MK3. There's the F500 & F1 as well. The Carvin BX500 gets to 2 ohms. Many Neo 2x10, 1x12 or 2x12 cabs are light enough to be easily transportable. And on and on. There are just so many high quality, managable options in amps and cabs right now. It's a good time to play bass...