best amp for playing out

#1 07-31-2010, 05:02 PM

I need suggestions for a new amp. I currently have an Ampeg B3, which is 150 watts. It's a decent amp and has been solid. I have used it at some outdoor events and it has been fine. I've been told if I am going to be playing in bars I will need at least 300 watts. Some bass players have told me to use cabs with multiple smaller speakers, instead of 1 or 2 bigger speakers. I don't know a great deal about amps, so any input would be great.

craig.p · #2 07-31-2010, 05:13 PM

1. What kind of music?

2. Audience size?

3. What are the other band members using for gear, and how loud do they play it?

4. What's your preferred tone?

5. Will the bass be going through the PA, or are you on your own?

RickenBoogie · #3 07-31-2010, 05:54 PM

300 watts is usually plenty enough, so long as you've got enough speakers to push it. Way too many bass amps and cabs to make any real suggestions, especially consdering the missing info, (see post #2)- but bear in mind, wattage is great, but big and multiple speakers is where volume is created.

#4 07-31-2010, 05:56 PM

1) Classic rock- Stones, ZZ Top, Bad Co, etc.
2) Don't know- 25-75?
3) Marshall stack, Fender, Ampeg- don't know specifics
4) I use Fender P and J
5) On my own, sound-wise

**Staccato** · #5 07-31-2010, 05:58 PM

Go for the amp head option, including a 2x or 4x cab for starters...

waleross · #6 07-31-2010, 06:10 PM

I am using in my rack a Fender TB1200 which can easily run an Ampeg 410HLF or (2) of them. Fender heads cost more (this one vents through the front which is good in a rack ) but are worth it,IMO. I also have the bigger ampeg Ampeg heads : SvT4Pro and the svTCL. These are great heads but need bigger cabs. I say try out some of the Fender Bassman heads and match them up with a 215 or a 410 cab if possible. Its always best not to rush into any big purchase....Good luck .....

Adam Bomb · #7 07-31-2010, 07:59 PM

6. How much do you care about weight?

My $0.02, because that's what you asked for: Consider a high-wattage head and a good-sized 8-ohm cabinet. That way you will have enough power to drive one cab pretty good but you will also have the capacity to add a second cab to your rig if you decide you need moar firepower. You didn't really get into how loud your band plays but I am guessing given the classic rock thing that it's loud but not insane. If you do care about weight, there are plenty of lightweight options of the type I have suggested. Check out Gallien-Krueger.

Have fun--

--Bomb