My 30 year old Marshall versus Ampeg?

hemmick reef · #1 01-30-2012, 03:07 AM

This is my first post... hi

I have a 100 watt Marshall integrated bass system (transistor combo) bought in 1984.
I am only home recording now, and due to it's size I am thinking of replacing it with an Ampeg BA 108 practice amp. I can't try one so I'm asking here what sort of difference there would be in tone and volume?

Thanks.

rodl2005 · #2 01-30-2012, 04:29 AM

Heaps-both.
A fair bit less volume & probly the Ampeg tone. Obvious but likely imo, but I've not used either of those amps.
For home recording tho,I can't see why it's not a wise choice.
& welcome to TB!

hemmick reef · #3 01-30-2012, 04:46 AM

How much is a 30 year old Marshall (like mine) worth out of interest, I have no idea?

nysbob · #4 01-30-2012, 06:28 AM

I don't think the SS marshall stuff commands much in the vintage gear trade. Someone jump in if I'm wrong.

RickenBoogie · #5 01-30-2012, 06:36 PM

No need for an amp to record bass at all. Go direct and play with eq, compression and whatever afterwards. Clean direct bass always works.

rodl2005 · #6 01-30-2012, 07:09 PM

True, & if the MArshall sounds good as is.... One can ALWAYS turn it down

But have heard that the li'l Ampeg BA 108,110,112 amps are very nice.

hemmick reef · #7 01-31-2012, 01:17 AM

DI bass can sound a bit lifeless, unless money is spent on good quality preamps and DI's.

kaputsport · #8 01-31-2012, 01:32 AM

The older Marshall stuff is not worth much. If it was a DBS head, it'll range anywhere from $250 to $800 depending on model and condition...

The next one to have is the Jubillie head... The 3560. They can sell for $400 and under, or a little more if the case and cab are included.

The IBS stuff is really just 200 watt solid state stuff. Sounds not bad, heavy as hell, and boring looking. I have seen these amps sell on eBay for under $200.

JimmyM · #9 01-31-2012, 11:33 AM

Tone, I don't know. Volume difference would likely be pretty significant. I have a BA108 and it sounds just like Ampeg amps should sound, but doesn't get loud. For me, the sweet spot of the BA line is the BA112, and if I were recording with it, that would be the one I'd get, but I do love my little BA108 and I use it all the time on an old timey jazz gig I do most weekends. For $100 you can't beat it.

will33 · #10 01-31-2012, 11:55 AM

If you're going for the traditional Ampeg tone, I'd think that'd be a cheap way to get it on tape as your starting point for mixing. Quiet enough you could incorporate a mic'd speaker without waking up the neighbors as well.

Showing my age there^^....."tape".

hemmick reef · #11 02-01-2012, 01:02 AM

Thanks for the replies.
I've just had to get my Marshall fixed - part of the power unit went. Cost me £25. I think I'll have to sell it now as it does need replacing.