No experience with power amps, simple questions.

[brodgers91]

Been playing bass for quite a few years now, and rather than upgrading by buying an entire new head and all, my friends recommend that I buy a power amp and a well-handling cab to create a more powerful rig. I am trying my best to research this and the answers just aren't clear. I am playing off of an Acoustic B200 at the moment and LOVE the tone, and would like to keep it if possible, while still upgrading the wattage. Any opinions/suggestions? I am not familiar with this area.

[dhomer]

If your B200 has a preamp out, it would be quite simple to do the upgrade. Choosing the power amp/cab(s) is a whole 'nuther balla yarn.. Whole thing depends on needs and budget.. Personally I'd look in the used market for an amp, and check into a 12/6 or 15/6 fEARful..

[dcallred]

If you love your tone why not just grab the Acoustic B115 for $199 and add that as an extension cabinet. Put your B200 on top and you will really hear it, plus more speakers = more volume.

[jnewmark]

Usually, those of us who use a power amp, use a bass specific preamp with it, instead of hauling around a bass head just to use the preamp out. There are some great preamps out now, along with very lightweight power amps at great prices. If you are dead set on keeping the Acoustic, then probably adding another cab is the way to go to get more volume, preferably the same speaker configure as you have now.

[steveksux]

Acoustic actually came out with a bass preamp, that might be the answer. Pair that with the power amp/speakers of your choice. I still have mine, but don't use it anymore. Keep in mind a LOT of your tone is probably due to the cabinet. Generally cabs have the most unique effect on your tone, as far as a baseline goes. Preamps can do a lot of tone shaping, but can usually do "flat" fairly well if you know how to set the knobs. Power amps do the least coloration to your tone.

Randy

[brodgers91]

all remarkable suggestions, thanks guys