Looking to upgrade amp

[SubversiveBass]

Hey guys, I've been playing bass for about two years now, and I've recently been playing a band. We're getting pretty serious with writing material and we'll be looking for a gig soon. My issue is I've got a pretty weak 28W amp. In one song, I even solo, yet it's pretty damn hard to even hear the bass. Anyone know of a good, loud amp I can get for (hopefully) pretty cheap? Looking for something at least 40W and hopefully not much over $200.

[B-string]

40 watts with bass? Don't even waste your time. When you start gigging 200-300 watts min and match with a 410, 212, 215 or at least 2 210's. Look for a used Peavey TNT in the short term but you will have a tough time finding a long term amp/cab for $200?
You will find that bass requires a whole lot more speakers and wattage at a gig than a guitar ever will!

[Mr. Foxen]

You'll need some serious speaker area to do much with that little power.

What you need to tell us is the style of music, the style of bass tone you are after, and what sort of other musicians you are up against. Playing cocktail jazz stuff, with brushes and jazz guitar, that might do. But detuned metal, no chance. Also, where you are might help someone point out a bargain. I know there is a pretty endgame amp going for £150 here in the UK, with that budget, you can do OK, and not have to upgrade in a goodly time, if you are smart and lucky.

[cableguy]

+1 on the used Peavey TKO. If you are in the states I would look for a used 15" combo. Peavey, Carvin, GK all can be had for that price used.