Downsizing... need advice.

Inconnu · #1 06-03-2010, 05:34 AM

I'm thinking of downsizing my smallest amp, but reading reviews and posts around here makes me worry about that switch. My main amp is an SVT with an 8x10. I also have a 200 watt 1x15 combo (Ampeg B2), which is the amp I'm thinking of downsizing. I use it mostly for home practice and occasionnal jams (sometimes, but rarely, with a drummer), and I feel I could have something smaller for that use. The thing is I use mainly a 5 string bass (low B) and occasionnally step on an Octave pedal... Reviews I read often point out that I couldn't do that (low B, octave) with a smaller speaker setup then a 1x15. Combos I was looking at are 1x12 (Hartke Hydrive 112C, SWR Working pro 12, etc.), otherwise it's not a significant downsize from the B2. The question : would a single 12 inch speaker work for my use or not ?

waleross · #2 06-03-2010, 05:58 AM

I have the same large rig (SVT,810). It sounds like you already have a great small amp. I know for some an amp with a 15" is too old school . If you get a great price on a combo (Fender Rumble 60 has a 12") then try it. In my case I have a 2BRE head with (2) Ampeg 115's for small stuff. It suits me fine. . I say take your five string out and shop around.

lomo · #3 06-03-2010, 06:07 AM

FWIW there are lighter 15s out there (like an Epi UL2-115 at under 50 lbs) that could be paired with a micro head.

Inconnu · #4 06-04-2010, 04:47 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by waleross

I have the same large rig (SVT,810). It sounds like you already have a great small amp. I know for some an amp with a 15" is too old school . If you get a great price on a combo (Fender Rumble 60 has a 12") then try it. In my case I have a 2BRE head with (2) Ampeg 115's for small stuff. It suits me fine. . I say take your five string out and shop around.

Yes, my smaller amp ain't, but it's a bit big. I'm giving a last chance at smaller amps before I call it quits and keep the B2, maybe adding a compressor instead. You mentioned the Fender Rumble 60, it's a 60 watts amp... I was told good things about the Marshall MB60 (another 60 watts, 1x12 combo) but always wondered if 60 watts would be enough for a jam with a drummer and a guitar player... Some say yes, others say no way... Any thoughts on that ?

tombowlus · #5 06-04-2010, 07:55 AM

You might want to try one of the new GK combos (1x15, 2x10, or 2x12). They are ridiculously light, but still quite powerful. Another option would be the Ibanez Promethean combos. I have played the 1x10 combo, and it seemed to handle the low B just fine. I own a 2x10 combo, and it has a very small footprint, gets crazy loud, and is very full all the way down the B string.

Tom.