Ampeg PF500 or GK MB500 for death metal?

dereksilloway · #1 05-30-2011, 01:22 AM

So ive been really interested in getting one of these heads. I havent really decided on which one yet but I have a question and a concern.
As I stated in the title, I play bass in a grind/death metal band where we often tune down to drop A. Now I can find plenty of videos online where people are playing slap bass and funk style stuff on these heads but nothing where someone is tuning down low and playing super fast.
So my concern is, would one of these "micro amps" be able to tailor to my style and tone requirements? Ive never owned one of these type of amps so im a little skeptical on there capabilities hence me asking this question.
My main head is a Mesa M2000. Now, im not looking for these amps to exactly match that but I would like to hear opinions from people who play metal on either of these. I cant really get out and demo either of these amps. So any input on there capabilities in this specific genre would be appreciated.
I think at this point in time, im looking at going with the Ampeg. But feel free to sway me (or agree with my decision)
Thanks in advance!

dereksilloway · #2 05-30-2011, 01:26 AM

By the way the tone im sort of looking for (if I had to give examples) would be like Vomit The Soul (though not so bright), Visceral Bleeding, Severe Torture, and similar tones.
Id be playing the head through a GK 410MBX and a 210MBX cabinet.

dereksilloway · #3 05-30-2011, 10:53 AM

No one can help me? Sadness, I guess Ill have to let you all know how it turns out...

stevemac · #4 05-30-2011, 10:57 AM

Love my pf350, its great for hard rock, not sure what to say about death metal but it has character.

dereksilloway · #5 05-30-2011, 11:30 PM

quick question for you stevemac.
I notice that it has one speakon and one 1/4 for speaker cabs. Does this mean that I have to use either or to power one cab or can I use both to power two cabs?
I only ask because it seems weird to me that there is two different inputs if the later is the case.
Refering the the PF350/500

rpsands · #6 05-30-2011, 11:53 PM

Mb500 is a metal monster.

However: For drop A, I would aim for an MB800.

dereksilloway · #7 05-31-2011, 12:55 AM

Well hearing that doesnt make my decision any easiar!
But thanks for the suggestion and it will be considered greatly.

stevemac · #8 06-01-2011, 11:11 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dereksilloway

quick question for you stevemac.
I notice that it has one speakon and one 1/4 for speaker cabs. Does this mean that I have to use either or to power one cab or can I use both to power two cabs?
I only ask because it seems weird to me that there is two different inputs if the later is the case.
Refering the the PF350/500

I'd have to assume since the pf350 doesnt have the speakon connector, but the pf350 does have two outputs for two cabs. My thinking would be as long as the impedance adds up ok you could do it.

JimmyM · #9 06-01-2011, 11:30 AM

you can use one or both speaker outs on those heads as long as you have the appropriate plug and stay within the safe impedance range.

now would i use a pf500 for death metal? i don't see why not. won't do extreme dirt, but most people use pedals or tube amps for that anyway.

GOV · #10 06-01-2011, 11:36 AM

GK all the way! I have seen more Ampeg amps pop through the years, still playing on my GK400RB from the late 80's. Now for a cab, I would go Ampeg all the way. Combine the two and its amazing.

dereksilloway · #11 06-01-2011, 12:29 PM

Well I played the PF500 yesterday in Drop A and was happy with it.
Now I just have to get my hands on a GK.

Either way when I make my purchase (some time next week) I will post a video and comment on how the amp deals with things.

gdthomas · #12 06-01-2011, 02:37 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dereksilloway

Well I played the PF500 yesterday in Drop A and was happy with it.
Now I just have to get my hands on a GK.

Either way when I make my purchase (some time next week) I will post a video and comment on how the amp deals with things.

Looking forward to hearing how these work out and which one you pick.

JUSTINKP · #13 06-01-2011, 02:55 PM

I have a PF500 that I use for hard rock, and love it. It packs a huge thump when using the "Ultra Lo" setting, or just cranking up the bass.

dereksilloway · #14 06-01-2011, 11:20 PM

Quote:

Looking forward to hearing how these work out and which one you pick

Ha, me too man!
I will be honest, I was pretty happy with the way the Ampeg sounded so the GK has to really bring it.

All I know is that I am positive I will be happy with either one. Ive owned both companies products before so im not worried about that.

Ive got to wait a week for them to order the GK so it will be a bit, but I will be playing them back to back in the store with my bass. Then I will make my decision.
And as I said I will post some videos and opinions strictly on my choices use for death metal....as I think that is a neglected part of the segment for amp manufacturers!