Ampeg's Portaflex PF-500 or something else?

[carl h.]

I'm looking for some thing lightweight and inexpensive - under $500 total.

I'm thinking I'll primarily be running an active 5 string into an SVT 15E with a bass pod in the mix once and a while. On occasion I'll power a pair of SVT 410HE cabs, but am mostly looking for a portable head for the 15E to use on midsized gigs. I'd like a compressor, the ability to run the pod through the effects send/return so I can control how much gets in the mix or completely bypass it, speakon outs and a line out for the board.

So far the PF-500 seems the only choice to meet all my criteria. I'll be out of town soon and plan on trying out everything I run across. Is there something else I should be looking for/at?

[Floridabwoy]

A used GB Shuttle..... do it.

[T. Alan Smith]

The PF500 is a nice head, but there are other, more bang for buck options such as Carvin, and the new GK's are really hard to beat.

[bassguppy]

I picked up the PF-500 recently and it's IMO the best product Ampeg put out in the past few years. It's good to see them repairing their image with good products (SVT7PRO, Heritage series). PF500 sounds good, the onboard compressor is decent, and the price in unbeatable.

There are other choices as well on the used market but if you dig what Ampeg gives it's a good choice.

There is a PF350 / PF500 thread, give it a look.

[carl h.]

Looked at the other amps mentioned - online. Seems to me they don't have what I am looking for in their features. Soundwise they may blow the Ampeg out of the water, or not, but It looks likely that I'll be bringing a PF500 home soon.

[JB36]

Another option would be the TC Electronic Classic 450 which has a built in compressor. Check the amp classified. There were two well under $500.

[Slackerprince]

Played an Ampeg SVT-7 Pro at GC today and fell in love.
You might be able to find one used in your price range.
Otherwise, the PF-500 should do it for you.
If you're looking for Ampeg tone, there is no substitute.
Used Markbass would be good, too.

S

[carl h.]

Right now I can get it new, shipped, for $350 from MF.

I can't find any deals that seem to top that.

[JimmyM]

It's a killer little head, no doubt.

[cheezewiz]

Originally Posted by carl h.

Right now I can get it new, shipped, for $350 from MF.

I can't find any deals that seem to top that.

That's pretty hard to beat.

[Scott549]

Originally Posted by carl h.

Right now I can get it new, shipped, for $350 from MF.

I can't find any deals that seem to top that.

Where are you getting $350? Their site lists it at $399.

[carl h.]

Originally Posted by Scott549

Where are you getting $350? Their site lists it at $399.

dads and grads sale.

[Scott549]

Originally Posted by carl h.

dads and grads sale.

Thanks.

[ButtUglyJeff]

$350 really makes this head a winner. Its like a little brother to the 7PRO...

[dtox]

I thought Ampeg was on their exclusions list...

[carl h.]

Originally Posted by dtox

I thought Ampeg was on their exclusions list...

Crud, you're correct sir.

Offer Exclusions

The following manufacturers have asked not to participate in coupon offers and other promotional discounts: A-Designs, Adam, Allen & Heath, Alvarez, American Audio, American DJ, Ampeg, Aphex...

Still, 400 isn't too bad. even without the discount it's still top of my list, unless I find something better suited to my needs. The 7pro is now (unfortunately) on my radar if I can find one used for a good price.

[ddbassGA]

Worth a call to customer service. MF honored the Pres Day sale on this head even though AMPEG is on exclusion list. They'll match or better GC's price so check their site too.

[carl h.]

Just left GC with a price matched PF500 for $350!

[dtox]

Originally Posted by carl h.

Just left GC with a price matched PF500 for $350!

Left a brick and mortar GC or online? That's a great price!

[carl h.]

B & M. Left with the one I tried out.