Need help buying an amp

Thunderbass1988 · #1 05-05-2011, 06:56 AM

Ok, I'm new here on Talk Bass and I've only played bass seriously for about half a year now. I have a SWR LA series 60 watt 1x12 that sounds good, but isn't loud enough to play in the band I'm in now. We play metal and I'm just looking for something (preferably a head) that can get a good sound. I was thinking SWR or GK, any suggestions?

Cava · #2 05-05-2011, 07:10 AM

Well, you will find very soon what happens to people who post the m word!

Seriously, I just ordered a Genz Benz Streamliner 900, but I took this decision after a few years of bass playing, and think I know what I need now. I strongly recommend to buy a reputable and powerful head, used. A used GK rb 700II will sell for a reasonable amount of cash, and so will an Ashdown, a Mark Bass or something similar. This way you can have sufficient power and get to know your real needs and taste for specific sounds. And keep in mind that none of them sounds bad generally speaking!!!

**powmetalbassist** · #3 05-05-2011, 07:16 AM

Peavey Tour series is a descent head, they also go for a good price. They are not the "best" on the market, but they are a solid amp (if you don't mind something heavy). They come in a 450 watt, and 700 watt head both briced around 400-550 new. They sound pretty good through the Headliner series cabinets which go for an amazing $300. Something good for someone looking for descent quality and power for under $1000.

Downunderwonder · #4 05-05-2011, 08:32 AM

A sick overdrive dedal for metal, a preamp and a cheap power amp. As many cabs as you need.

Better to spend on a big PA than spend on a huge bass rig. Best of all to play your metal with all it's glory through the smallest rig you can possibly get away with and let the PA do the work.