Complete begginer to amps.. anyone lend a hand?

LiamR · #1 09-23-2010, 01:29 PM

Hey guys. I've been playing for about 2 years now, and I've decided to get a new, decent amp to go alongside my new bass. However, the main problem is that I really don't know much about amp tech - my first amp was a cheapo Line 6 15 model, and my second one was a Laney Richter which I recieved as a gift, which is just about knackered.

I have a budget of around £500, give or take a few tens. Is there any specific brands that give a wide variety of different sounds for that price range?

Of course, I know that a lot of it is personal taste, and me trying the amps out for myself, but I just wanted some opinions of those much wiser than me in this field.

Thanks in advance!

BassmanPaul · #2 09-23-2010, 02:00 PM

What you need depends on if you're just playing at home, rehearsing with a band, or playing gigs. Not knowing whats available in the UK I can only suggest you tour the music shops and try everything you see. On-line resources for used equipment would be another avenue to look at.

Paul

PJMiDi · #3 09-23-2010, 02:04 PM

Just throwing a few things out off the top of my head to try out.

Used Peaveys
Cheaper GK models are solid amps for the money
Acoustics cheaper stuff has gotten a lot better over the past few years as well.

But it seems like your going about it the right way; and will learn a lot as you try out all the different amps you can. Best of luck on the hunt.

LiamR · #4 09-23-2010, 02:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BassmanPaul

What you need depends on if you're just playing at home, rehearsing with a band, or playing gigs. Not knowing whats available in the UK I can only suggest you tour the music shops and try everything you see. On-line resources for used equipment would be another avenue to look at.

Paul

Thanks for the info. I'll be playing in my room, yes, but I want it to sound great at small gigs, too.

anonymous02282011 · #5 09-23-2010, 02:21 PM

Play as many different amps/cabs as you can.

Use your ears.

Once you find something you absolutely love and can afford -- go home, sleep on it and re-visit it the next day.

BassmanPaul · #6 09-23-2010, 02:25 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by adbass

Play as many different amps/cabs as you can.

Use your ears.

Once you find something you absolutely love and can afford -- go home, sleep on it and re-visit it the next day.

Good advice. This is how it works and you keep doing it as your wallet improves.

Paul