GK backline600 or Sansamp bassdriver+pwr amp?

gregoire1 · #1 10-18-2010, 11:10 AM

I just can't decide! I've tried both in store (under deplorable conditions) both sound good to me. I'm very poor and can score either on ebay for about $120-$150. I already have a Peavey Power amp M3000 (300 w @ 2ohm, what a brute).

BL600 is a simple, all inclusive head

Sansamp gives me the stand-alone DI pedal option, plus I can finally add that BFM omni 10.5 to my omni 10 and be like Kesslari, but my rig will be more complex and that pwr amp is very heavy.

I know I'm overthinking this but I flip flop everyday and just can't seem to decide with out a little help. If I just go with something, I know I'll wish I went with the other.

Lee Barker · #2 10-18-2010, 11:16 AM

Make your decision and allow yourself six months after which you'll decide if you're happy. If you are, grand! Splendid! If you aren't, your other option, plus others, will still be there.

Six months will allow you enough time to fully understand and appreciate the characteristics of your choice, after which you can help other TBers when they have questions about it.

Right now, you're sounding like a committee. Make an executive decision.

Sometimes you've just got to go, make music and enjoy what you have!

craig.p · #3 10-18-2010, 12:29 PM

I hear some folks buy new BDDIs, wind up not liking them, and sell them used. How 'bout buying a used one, then if you wind up not liking it, you can simply resell it for what you paid for it.

If you go the other way, i.e. buy a new Backline 600, and wind up not liking that, I expect you're gonna take a hit on the used sale. Unless you get one of those x-day money-back deals. But, same as above for the Backline: if you can find a used one and wind up not liking it, you can always sell it for what you paid for it.

BDDI can take a long (and patient) familiarization period. It can be non-intuitive. Be prepared for that, i.e. manage your expectations.

Also the BDDI, even the newer ones with the line-level output capability, can have problems driving power amps with low input sensitivity (high number, that is). If you run lots of drive and/or tone, then this is less of a concern. At any rate, check your amp's sensitivity spec and someone here will let you know whether you might be on the margin in that regard with a BDDI.

You do know the Backline doesn't go down to 2 ohms, right?

gregoire1 · #4 10-18-2010, 03:36 PM

thanks for the replies, I never had to chance to try the sansamp direct to power amp, so yes, I'm not sure how it will sound, and yes, I'm aware the backline is 4ohm min, but my pwr amp is 2. I've just lost faith in my own ability to decide. I guess I have a little gear snobbery. The Sansamp is more "pro" than the Chinese GK. Why do I care what other people think? (that last question was rhetorical)

craig.p · #5 10-18-2010, 05:48 PM

Keep checking the classifieds here for a BDDI. They come up now and then for around $100 and usually go quick. There were two or three in the past month. If it doesn't work out for you, you can resell it in the classifieds for $100, and then move on to the second option -- the Backline. If you buy the BDDI, be certain you're buying the newer version, i.e. the one with the line-level capability.

A little OT, but if the used BDDI you buy doesn't come with a manual, here's a warning: NEVER unplug the input to the BDDI when the power amp is on, because the input jack is also the power switch. If you do, you'll get either a *BANG* or a *BOOM* or something equally unpleasant from your speaker cab, possibly enough even to cause cone damage.

bassyRyan · #6 10-18-2010, 07:04 PM

I would recommend the BDDI with a quality power amp over ANYTHING from GK's Backline series, but that's just from experience. You may also want to check out the VTBASS Deluxe.

masterFlash · #7 10-19-2010, 07:17 AM

You should Check out TB member FDECK's info on the backline 600. Here's the link: http://personalpages.tds.net/~fdeck/bass/gkbl600.pdf

I have one and I agree that it is a good solid amp. It is a good clear sounding amp, I've even used it as a power amp for a PA system a couple of times. It has some nice character with the 'Boost' knob, and if you like the digital distortion sound channel 2 isn't so bad.

It has a direct out that can be toggled pre or post EQ to make your sound guy happy.
Overall its a decent starting point.
I picked mine up 2 years ago for $120 I think.