Mesa 400 VS 2000?

mr_goodbomb · #1 06-28-2010, 03:10 PM

I was very close to purchasing a Mesa 400 or 400+. I really like Mike Dirnt's bass tone of Dookie, and I could use the extra wattage. The only real down side is the higher used prices lately, and the cost of retubing. Recently, I read he didn't use a 400+, but a MB-2000. I'm not too into hybrid amps, but I must admit, cheaper upkeep would be nice, but I've already read they have issues, and I'd be buying used.

So, for a sort of indie-pop band, with a very bright, agressive bass sound, in a 3 piece (so I have to handle a lot of sonic territory), what would be best?

DanRJBrasil · #2 06-28-2010, 04:23 PM

O find the 2000 with a darker tone, for a bright pop I would go with the 400

somegeezer · #3 06-28-2010, 04:52 PM

Go for the cheaper and easier.

mr_goodbomb · #4 06-29-2010, 02:31 AM

Anyone else have an opinion on these 2?

jastacey · #5 06-29-2010, 09:15 AM

I'd be sure to test the M-2000 first, I had one and it hissed pretty badly, also it has somewhat of a dark tone, but it is a pretty versatile amp, but if I was going to spend your money, my choice would be the the 400+

Matt Dean · #6 06-29-2010, 10:04 AM

On recent tours, Mike's been using Fender Pro 1200 heads.

oddgrowth · #7 06-29-2010, 02:02 PM

I've had both.

I began with the 400+ and now have/use the M2000.

The 400+ was remarkable when it was working. The first 6 months I had it, it was probably in the shop 4 times....then even a few times after that in the following 2 years.

The 400+ is mostly a one trick pony, tho excellent for what it is. pretty tempramental, but brings huge amounts of volume.

I sold the 400+ for 900 and then bought a M2000 for 600.

Same amount of watts, 2 less rack spaces and cheaper.
It has every bit of power the 400+ has but you can completely sculpt your tone with the M2000. Not to mention having channel/eq/high gain switching capabilities at a foot's reach (pedal board).

onboard compressor on each side as well (HUGE points w/me))

I do not miss having a separate 8sp rolling rack to lug around.
Now I get by with a 4sp.

I loved the 400+, but the M2000 fits my needs a whole lot better.

Matt Dean · #8 06-29-2010, 02:29 PM

This is how I feel about my M-Pulse 600.