Need advice on new amp purchase ($200-$350)

Scurvee · #1 09-14-2011, 02:42 PM

So I am currently using a Fender Rumble 25W amp with a cheap-ass Rogue 4 string bass. I've been playing for about a year and a half now.

My band is starting to do performances at Penn State tailgates just to get out there, but we are a melodic death metal band and will be playing Metal shows at a club next month. I'm looking to upgrade my amp (even though I know, my bass is cheap-ass) just to get a fuller, more powerful sound than this little 25w practice amp can give me. I'd be willing to spend $200-$350(maybe a little more if it means a big difference).

Any suggestions as to what brands/wattages you use/would recommend in this price range? I'd really appreciate any input!!

El_Duderino · #2 09-14-2011, 02:45 PM

I'm looking at a GK MB115 based on several comments here. $400 new, but it's 200 watts.

spaz21387 · #3 09-14-2011, 02:50 PM

buy used... And look into hartke stuff they are cheap and great. you can find a used hartke 4x10 for like 100 ish and then just buy a new head.

Bass_Pounder · #4 09-14-2011, 02:51 PM

Buy once, cry once..............

Get yourself a head that is between 300-500 watts

Get a decent 4X10, 2X15, or 2X12 cab

El_Duderino · #5 09-14-2011, 02:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bass_Pounder

Buy once, cry once..............

Get yourself a head that is between 300-500 watts

Get a decent 4X10, 2X15, or 2X12 cab

Can you do that in the price range he's talking about?

PurpleDrank · #6 09-14-2011, 05:19 PM

I can understand how you can play clubs with just a practice amp, but I don't get how you could play tailgates already with one. I'm with the guy that said 300-500watts and plenty of speakers. That's about the minimum to do outdoor shows if you don't have a PA. Buy used, for sure, and bump your budget up to like $550-600 and you'll be set pretty much forever. Tons of choices used in that range.

Scurvee · #7 09-14-2011, 10:45 PM

Well I actually figure the clubs will require a louder amp than what I need for the tailgates (thus why I'm looking to buy an upgrade amp). The 25w has done a good enough job for the tailgates, but I've had to push it to 9 and 10 to keep up with the guitarists 40w amps.

Ok so I should invest in 300-500W head, and get a decent cabinet. Used is suggested. Thanks everybody! If anyone else wants to throw in new suggestions or agrees with what's already posted, feel free...