Amp recommendations around $500-$600

napawino · #1 01-02-2011, 04:31 PM

Hello!

What would be a good amp for my Active Jazz bass? I only play at home, and I really don't need to be able to crack the paint off of my walls. Just good tone, and solid construction. Loud is fine, but it needs so sound good at "bedroom" level as well.

Ideas?

Thanks in advance.

Dr_Funkdamental · #2 01-02-2011, 04:52 PM

There are plenty of used GB shuttle and Markbass heads for sale in the classifieds. Theres nothing wrong with them, just not the new thing anymore. They still sound great and are reliable. Played a MM thru my LMII with great results, even a room over from my 2yr old sleeping.

**steddy2112** · #3 01-02-2011, 04:56 PM

Markbass fo sho

napawino · #4 01-02-2011, 04:56 PM

Thanks, Doc. But a combo would be best for me, and not a gigantic one.

Floyd Eye · #5 01-02-2011, 04:58 PM

Go here and have a looksee.

The Micros are priced right and at 250 watts, it seems like plenty for you. Try one for 10 days and ship it back if you don't like it.

http://www.carvinguitars.com/bassamps/

**steddy2112** · #6 01-02-2011, 05:00 PM

I tried little practice amps and resorted to getting a neo 2x10 and playing my LM-II/pre-amp main set up.

Don't sacrifice tone for the sake of simplicity, there are plenty of light options that are separate cabs and heads.

Not saying all combos sound bad now...just don't sell yourself short saying you NEED a combo

Dr_Funkdamental · #7 01-02-2011, 05:15 PM

Epifani PS112 1x12 cab - First Generation: Tilt-back handle & Cover

Markbass Little Mark 250(upgrade) FS!

These two are a GREAT setup for the price and are still more versatile (if you want to change cabs or add on) than this combo:

FS: Markbass Mark Bass Stack

They both are good deals. Ive actually played both and its really a toss up, but for your needs, either one will do.

**nostatic** · #8 01-02-2011, 05:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by napawino

Hello!

What would be a good amp for my Active Jazz bass? I only play at home, and I really don't need to be able to crack the paint off of my walls.

Why use an amp at all? You've got a computer - get a cheap interface, some decent heaphones, and you can make it sound like anything you want.

I do all of my practicing/rehearsing at home through a usb interface with headphones. The amp only gets used for playing out.

GrowlerBox · #9 01-02-2011, 05:41 PM

The small Genz Benz Shuttles and the Ibanez Promethean give you something of each world, being essentially combos with detachable heads. I play through a Shuttle 3.0 with its 10" cabinet at low volume at my teacher's place, and I really enjoy it.

napawino · #10 01-02-2011, 06:13 PM

So many choices......I do like the look of that Genz Benz shuttle. I need to shop around town and see what stores have in stock. I'm not real big on having things shipped.

Munjibunga · #11 01-02-2011, 06:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by napawino

So many choices......I do like the look of that Genz Benz shuttle. I need to shop around town and see what stores have in stock. I'm not real big on having things shipped.

LOL! How do you think things get to the store?

napawino · #12 01-02-2011, 06:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Munjibunga

LOL! How do you think things get to the store?

Yeah, but I can play before I pay, and be certain that it works!

Hellbastard · #13 01-02-2011, 06:19 PM

If you're looking for a bedroom amp you don't need to spend 600 bucks on it, Just go to your local store and try small practice amps.

39-Bassist · #14 01-02-2011, 06:21 PM

Try the Carvin BX500, light, powerful and very good sound for the price...just a thought.

napawino · #15 01-02-2011, 06:23 PM

I've played a couple of small amps, like the Roland, and it sounded like crap. I'd like to be able to rumble but not always have to, to sound good. If that makes sense....

ilovenofrets · #16 01-02-2011, 06:32 PM

In that price range, as mentioned, there are the Genz Benz and MarkBass combos that are awesome. Or, you can save a bunch o' cash and look for something like one of the Gallien Krueger Backline combos(find a USA made one). I have a Backline 110 that I just love keeping around for quick plug-in practice, and have used it in small performance with an acoustic guitarist, and I have no complaints. 3-band active EQ, single input with active/passive switch, clean and overdrive channel, tilt-back cab, rear-ported, and you can unplug the speaker if you wanted to go with a different cab. They made the 110(70 watts), 112(100 watts), and the 115(125 watts). The 115 also featured the boost knob like on the 1001 and 2001 RB heads, as well as the 4-band EQ.
Other options I could suggest would be a Hartke Kickback, Ampeg BA series, Yorkville Bassmaster, or if you can find one, a Trace Elliot Commando.
Hope this helps. Cheers!

Sav'nBass · #17 01-02-2011, 06:40 PM

I really reccomend that you consider giving these boards a shot.. I have bought and sold stuff here.. and I have never had a problem.. I got my Shuttle here (great amp) and my speaker cab... and some other stuff as well... I understand the trepidation.. but you can't go wrong with that MkB or the Shuttle... both are great heads...