Cheap solution to use a Tone Hammer without a PA?

Souperman08 · #1 03-18-2013, 05:36 PM

So, I'm just starting out gigging and practicing with a band. I already have a bass I love, and I managed to pick up an Aguilar Tone Hammer for cheap. I love how it sounds, and it works great when I have a PA, but I want something portable and cheap for practices and auditions. Would my best option be a combo amp with an effects loop, or something like a powered wedge? I'm open to suggestions. Ideally, I'd like to keep it under $200. Thanks in advance for any and all help!

bassgod0dmw · #2 03-18-2013, 05:45 PM

I'd just get an amp

JimmyM · #3 03-18-2013, 05:56 PM

For $200, you're not going to get much unless you buy used. And even then, you're not going to get great stuff. I have a couple less-than-$200 amps that I use sometimes (BA110 is quite sweet for a practice amp), but I'd never show up to an audition with one. You only get one chance to make a first impression.

fender_mod · #4 03-18-2013, 08:42 PM

Ya you would be surprised how far a little extra money will take you with gear. Even just $350 will get you a pretty decent amp. Save a few dollars and get something you'll actually be proud of.

::::BASSIST:::: · #5 03-18-2013, 08:50 PM

I think I saw a bag end s15d in the classifieds. That would give you a powerful, portable cab for around $300. Pair that up with your TH amp and you have yourself a very capable rig that is portable and not too pricey.

My .02

Souperman08 · #6 03-18-2013, 10:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ::::BASSIST::::

I think I saw a bag end s15d in the classifieds. That would give you a powerful, portable cab for around $300. Pair that up with your TH amp and you have yourself a very capable rig that is portable and not too pricey.

My .02

Is that a powered cab? I have the Tone Hammer preamp/DI unit (sorry, didn't clarify that).

Alright guys, looks like I need to save up. Thanks for the advice!

GrowlerBox · #7 03-18-2013, 10:34 PM

The Tone Hammer should have enough output from the DI (8 VRMS) to drive one of the GK powered enclosures. Still a bit more than $200, though ...

::::BASSIST:::: · #8 03-18-2013, 10:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Souperman08

Is that a powered cab? I have the Tone Hammer preamp/DI unit (sorry, didn't clarify that).

Alright guys, looks like I need to save up. Thanks for the advice!

No it isn't. I didnt realize you have the pedal version. I have the same unit and I do like it alot. I often use mine with a poweramp (QSC 2402) and it works really well.

In your case, I think you either have to do as growler box suggests and get a gk powered enclosure or sell your TH and use the funds + your $200 budget and buy a decent combo or integrated amp + cab.

Downunderwonder · #9 03-18-2013, 11:32 PM

Used Peavey combo. Bewteen that as the monitor and the TH DI for the PA you could go a long way in some bands

rpsands · #10 03-19-2013, 10:21 AM

Go down to the pawn shop and say "I have 200 dollars. Give me an old power amp and a cab."

Should be able to get one of the old beat up power amps - like a Peavey CS800 or something - and a generic 1x15 bass cab or some such along those lines.