Buying a Amp.

ChrisBo · #1 06-25-2011, 04:43 AM

Could I get some advice on some good amps?

I'm playing in a rock band, and I've been looking into the Ashdown ABM 500 evo III. And a 4x10 speaker to match it.
Anyone got opinions on the Ashdown?

Mainly i'm looking for a amp that's a little cheaper, but still got good qualities to it.

playerunk · #2 06-25-2011, 04:50 AM

you get more for your money if you buy used. Peavey can be had for good prices and their gear is reliable so you can hand it down to your kids eventually.

Other than that shop around..even if you don't buy, try as many amps as you can to get an idea of what's out there.

BillMason · #3 06-25-2011, 05:04 AM

I agree with buy used until you learn what you like (and beyond for that matter). Lots of good choices, and the Talkbass Classifieds are a great place for used gear.

Do some research first - figure out what sound you want by trying different ones out, reading about them online, asking questions here, etc.

docalex · #4 06-25-2011, 11:34 AM

guitar center is selling used Markbass CMD 121P's (350-500watt 2X10 combo) for less than $650 - roughly half the price for a new one (mid 2011, NYC.)

The amp is widely reviewed, here on TB and elsewhere. I love the sound, but I mostly play it flat - so I just like the sound of my Squire Vintage Jazz fretless circa 2008 from Indonesia - lucky me. :-)

it's loud enough for clubs, and possibly for a warehouse... and if it isn't, add another cab and cop the full 500watts.

but the real reason to consider it is that it only weighs 44 lbs - it was literally the most amp I could carry. ha!

good luck, and enjoy

kayakbass · #5 06-25-2011, 01:20 PM

Ashdown stuff rocks! Big, fat, clear... I personally highly recomend them! Check these guys out, Alpha Audio
All GearGear Page {0} > Alpha Audio Works, Inc.
Good folks and they sell Ashdown. They have a used ABM300 there!

ChrisBo · #6 06-26-2011, 05:15 PM

Thank you guys! I think I'll stay around the 300-500w amps, otherwise it will be too much power for the places my band will be playing.

I'll be checking for some used amps, and this week I'll be heading downtown to look around and listen if I find anything suitable, that sound nice.