Broken Ampeg B115 Combo

rdcowan · #1 07-05-2010, 06:25 AM

I have a chance to pick up an Ampeg B115 combo and a little Ibanez bass for $120. He says the amp doesn't work. What are the chances it is something simple like a loose connection or blown speaker? I thought for that amount I could use the box or speaker even if I couldn't get the amp working. I intend to ask a few more questions and go look at it today.

perogato02 · #2 07-05-2010, 06:44 AM

It can be lots of things ...

Let's say 25 against 3

**TRichardsbass** · #3 07-05-2010, 07:02 AM

Depends on which B-115 you are talking about. If this is a "vintage" '70s era B-115 then they were good but had a bunch of wires inside that had a tendency to come loose over time. Repairable but not easily diagnosed. Check Harmony Central for more info.

If this is the newer BA-115, then my guess is that it is something loose or disconnected inside. Mine had cabinet quality issues. If the amp is the BA-115 or BA-115T, then even a broken one for that much is a good deal, assuming you have a good repair shop nearby, as most amp repairs are usually round $100, so $220 for a BA-115 is a good price, period. Throw in a bass, better deal.

Ask a ton of questions and get some good pix. Oh, if this amp is not that old, LOUD may cover it under warranty still if its something in the Amp.

rdcowan · #4 07-05-2010, 07:07 AM

Thanks T. I intend to ask a lot of questions when I see it. I believe it is the newer BA series. It was listed on CraigsList and it sounds like a kid with a cheap Ibanez bass just starting out. He may not have the gain turned up for all I know! But for the money, why not, right?

rdcowan · #5 07-05-2010, 09:57 AM

Just talked to the seller. He says it is the BA115 and it is blowing fuses repeatedly. He took it to the local guitar shop and they told him it needed a new PC board. I have my doubts on the tech ability of the local shop, so I am hoping it is something else. In any case the speaker is good and the bass is an Ibanez SR300DX. So I think I will get the pair just to play with. Always wanted to be an electrical technician anyway.

gidbass · #6 07-05-2010, 10:05 AM

Quote:

Always wanted to be an electrical technician anyway.

Be careful. There is enough juice going through there to hurt, even kill you. If you go this route, I would recommend taking it to someone who knows what they are doing, if you don't.

Just my .02.

Good Luck

rdcowan · #7 07-05-2010, 10:27 AM

I know. I do maintenance work and electrical troubleshooting on 3phase industrial woodworking equipment. Got zapped once and burned a hole in my hand with 440V! I ain't gonna do it again. When you see your life flash before your eyes it isn't always pretty.