The best combo amp for under $1200

bigjames · #1 06-11-2011, 08:34 AM

What is the best combo amp available under $1200? I was looking at an SWR Redhead and also some of the Markbass stuff, but I have not really looked at amps for over 10 years. I currently have a 10 year old GK MB150E combo and it has served me well until recently. I now find I need more power than the 80W internal / 150W external that the MB150 provides - thus the interest in the RedHead. What is the consensus?

**TXLawDawg** · #2 06-11-2011, 08:40 AM

Can't say enough good about my Markbass CMD 102P combo. Great little amp! Love the ability to tilt it back like a stage monitor, it's super loud and has a great sound. Really clean without coloring the sound of my bass. And, at 44 lbs. it's a breeze to carry.

capnsandwich · #3 06-11-2011, 08:40 AM

I have a GK MB212 that kicks a**. At 500 watts, 2 12" speakers, and 37 lbs., you're ready to gig for $700.

ButtUglyJeff · #4 06-11-2011, 09:39 AM

Can you get the Redhead for $1200? When I was shopping, and considering expensive combos, I looked at the SWR Redhead and Fender TB-600C. I liked both, but didn't see the value in paying nearly $1500 for either.

I finally decided on the Ampeg Portaflex, which is kind of a "make your own" combo, with your choice of two different heads and two cabs. For $1200 you could also get a second extension cabinet, and really rock out...

Ampeg: Portaflex Series

MarTONEbass · #5 06-11-2011, 10:13 AM

I absolutely loved my Markbass CMD 102P combo. Loud enough to hear over 2 loud guitars and an animal drummer. Easy to hear on small stages, very light and loud!

shawshank72 · #6 06-11-2011, 10:15 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by capnsandwich

I have a GK MB212 that kicks a**. At 500 watts, 2 12" speakers, and 37 lbs., you're ready to gig for $700.

+10000000000 Nasty ass little amp.

babebambi · #7 06-11-2011, 10:18 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by capnsandwich

I have a GK MB212 that kicks a**. At 500 watts, 2 12" speakers, and 37 lbs., you're ready to gig for $700.

+1
I am really impressed with GK's latest combo series, which is also available in 210 and 115, and self-powered extension cabs.

Bassflute · #8 06-11-2011, 10:26 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bigjames

What is the best combo amp available under $1200? I was looking at an SWR Redhead and also some of the Markbass stuff, but I have not really looked at amps for over 10 years. I currently have a 10 year old GK MB150E combo and it has served me well until recently. I now find I need more power than the 80W internal / 150W external that the MB150 provides - thus the interest in the RedHead. What is the consensus?

that thing is ancient, and heavy, and I never liked them when they were new.

For a MODERN bass amp, check out the Ibanez Promethean...you could get it WITH the 10" extension cab, and have a VERY small, very powerful (500 watts) little combo. My review is here:

Gear Review-Ibanez Promethean Combo 5110 vs. Genz-Benz 3.0-310T « Bass Players United

Fantastic little thing, and I do mean little! The optional bag is the size of a camera bag; you could throw it over your shoulder and walk several blocks with it to the gig.

For less than the price of the Markbass 1x12, you'll get a 2x10 stack, with better features, better sound, more power, AND better looks. And no rat fur....

IMHO.

Cheers,
Cameron