| Need to downsize, equivalent or better sound, and a good headphone-out
In preparation for a major move later this year, I need to downsize. Would you please offer me some suggestions? The combo/and/or cabinet need to go, so I'm either looking for a head, or a combo. I also need to be able to practice with headphones, without ear fatigue. The line-out to Soundcraft mixer, to headphones is less than stellar, and I think it's the amp's fault. Currently I have:
Godin Freeway Active 4 (Thomastik flats)
2011 MIA Fender Pbass (DR Sunbeams)
Eden Nemesis RS210 combo
Eden Nemesis N410RS cabinet
Soundcraft Notepad 124
Sennheiser HD555 headphones
I haven't had the opportunity to play many tube amps for bass, but for guitar I overwhelmingly prefer a simple circuit, Class A 12ax7 sound, that gets crunchy fairly early, with mostly even-order harmonics, like a Vox AC4TV. I only play fingerstyle, or pick, occasionally use a sponge, and never, ever slap. I never use a smiley-face EQ, and never use the "enhance" control on my Eden. From what I've played, I don't like the SWR, Hartke, or Gallien Krueger sounds.
Should I be looking for a NOS MIA Eden head? A Mesa Boogie Walkabout? Maybe something from Genz Benz? Sell the cab, keep the combo, buy a Sansamp VT, and plug that into the mixer for headphone practice? The trouble with buying most heads is I'd have to mail-order them. I spend $500 or so towards an upgrade, not including sale/trade-in value of my Eden gear.
Please let me know what you think,
Nick | 
