I'm new at amps... help!

[Asmund]

Okay, so I've been playing for a bit more than 6 years now, and I've got two nice basses here, but my amplifier sucks. Honestly.
So I was thinking about getting myself a nice stack for the following purposes: Homepractice, jamming, and performing (this is metal we're talking about, so it's gotta be loud!).
I've been looking at the Ampeg SVT810, and wondered "hm, is that able to handle a 5-string bass tuned to drop-a?" I've gotten the response "of course" from some random guy on youtube, so now I just wanted to ask you guys here!
Also, if I buy an Ampeg SVT810 I'm going to need a head for it too. So when my amplifier itself is on 800 watt, how many watt should the head be to sound good?

Response is well-seen, and please don't go too hard, I've barely ever wondered about the amplifier before now - as I'm about to get into a serious band.

So, conclusionary questions:
-If the cabinet (?) is 800 watt, what will the head need to be?
-Is the Ampeg SVT810 good for the purpose of my playing? And what head would be good with it?

And please, if you have any advices about anything at all, tell me! Also I have a low budget, so it would be nice with some in-expensive stuff here

[waleross]

The 810 will take anything you run through it. I still have an Svt 4pro head and it ran of my 810 cabs, no problem. Most heads (600 watts or more ) will fit well with an 810 cab.. Take your time buying and try to play the rigs you are looking at before you buy when possible .

[Mo'Phat]

AMPS FAQ!! Info on OHMS, Allsize RIGS-OverUnderPowerCabs DIY TechTalk-Links

Check it. It's a sticky at the top of the Amps page and will give you a whole busload of amplifier information.

But, one amp for home practice, jamming, and performing? I say get a small combo for home practice, and one for rehearsals/gigs and you'll be set.

Loud? Low? Like Ampeg? Look at the 410HLF cabinet that is ported to enhance the low end. The 810 cabinet is a sealed cabinet and is meant to be powerful in the mid-bass to cut through heavy guitar amps. It won't cut out on you with drop-A tuning in a band setting, but might leave you wanting that subsonic low end you probably want.

[sad_katz]

If a 25-watt B15 head can drive an 810AV, any other wattage amp can do it! Please do check the FAQ page about amps cabs watts and their relationships. Quick version: more speakers = more volume.

How low is your budget? I don't think an 810 can be considered low budget even when buying used. An SVT-410HE supposedly sounds similar to the 810 if you like that tone. The 410-HLF, imo, has deep and massive low end but inadequate mids to cut through loud drums and guitars. Try both and see which one you like more.

Heads, the current Ampeg Micro-SVT and PF-350 are tonally nice and cheap. For a little more the PF-500 has better versatility.