Simply cannot decide on a head..

[Sgt Baker]

Hey guys, I started my amp search probably 5 months ago. At first I thought Peavey vb-2, then GK rb700ii, then TC rh450, then GB shuttle 3.0, then blah blah blah. I can't decide. I want a lightweight, versatile head a tubey warmth, but still a modern hi end. I play Weather Report, Grateful Dead, Phish, Primus, RATM, Marcus Miller type stuff. I don't expect to have all of those guys' tones, but enough to jam out each one. My price range probably extends to like 500 bones, and I really don't need anymore than 400 watts. Any input would be most appreciated, thanks in advances dudes. Jam on

[iamdenialNJ]

There's way too many choices that fit in your price range and even more if you shop used. Some heads I really liked: Little Mark II, Shuttle 6.0, Hartke 3500HA, and the 400rb by GK. I still rock a 400rb and my shuttle 6.0

[JimmyM]

All fine choices, but I'll put in a plug for the PF heads from Ampeg. Super sound, does both vintage and modern, dirt cheap pricing, and extremely tubey sounding.

[fourstringburn]

A subjective question which will bring subjective answers based on personal preference.

I will base my suggestion off the music you like which would require effects like chorus and overdrive and compression. I would suggest the Line 6 HD400. This is a 400 watt head for $400.

Take a look and try one out if you can and let us know what you think!

My personal opinion would say go all Ampeg with 4- 810 cabs and 4000 watts of power!!!

Line 6 LowDown HD400 400W Rack Mount Bass Amp Head: Shop Bass & Other Musical Instruments | Musician's Friend

[JimmyM]

Originally Posted by fourstringburn

A subjective question which will bring subjective answers based on personal preference.

Absolutely true. It's a bit like picking out a wife for someone. But it can help to have people run through the merits of the gear they like. If you see stuff that people say that strikes a nerve, you can at least start to assemble a shortlist.

[chaosMK]

Maybe the most likeable and warm solid state head you can find, later on match with a Sansamp BDDI or VT to get a whole other range out of it.

[TrevorOfDoom]

Little Mark II/III, or GK MB500

[Windreaper]

Also check out Hartke LH500, I found it did the tubey warmth thing quite nicely. It is not as light as a micro head, though. The modern hi end part depends on your cab.

[jelwood]

Sounds like you need to go to a GC and start playing some of these for yourself....

[Mojo-Man]

Markbass Little Mark Tube.
Ampeg PF500
Genz Benz Streamliner 600
Aguliar AG500 SC
Mesa Walkabout Scout.

All have nice tube like tone.

[peledog]

Carvin BX500 (I think these are sale right now for $499)
TCE RH450
Ampeg PF-500 Portaflex
GK MB500
GB Shuttle 6.0

Shop around - sometimes it's best to go with a used amp. Weight, power rating and tonal abilities - I've played through all the above listed amps. I chose the one with the features I use most.

[onosson]

Originally Posted by Windreaper

Also check out Hartke LH500, I found it did the tubey warmth thing quite nicely. It is not as light as a micro head, though. The modern hi end part depends on your cab.

+1

[Sgt Baker]

I'm thinkin I might go with the PF350, with a PF115 seems to have all that i need, vintage warmth and modern attack. Any further details on that rig?

[JimmyM]

Originally Posted by Sgt Baker

I'm thinkin I might go with the PF350, with a PF115 seems to have all that i need, vintage warmth and modern attack. Any further details on that rig?

More info on the PF350/PF115 rig? Say no more, bro!

Ampeg B-15 and PF350/PF115he recordings - TalkBass Forums

Comparo of the PF rig to an actual B-15N.

[logicman69]

Check out the Hartke LH500 if you get a chance. I did a side by side with the Ampeg and IMO, not only was it louder but it had more of that tube growl to it. The downside was it was heavier, but hey, thats why I lift weights! ;-)