Trying to narrow down some amp choices. HELP!

johnpace2 · #1 09-28-2011, 06:50 AM

Hi Guys,

I'm looking for an amp (new or used) in the $400-800 range and just want to see some opinions. The amp will be run through an Ampeg 8x10 cabinet. Music style is hard rock. I'm new to bass and come from a guitar background.

So far I've been mulling over the list below...

Mesa Carbine M6: Mesa is a name I know and trust and this looks pretty cool. I think I could get it for $800 used. I believe this is an 8ohm head though and I think the cabinet is 4ohms. Is there a way to get around that?

GK R1001 head: I can get this brand new from Sweetwater for $605 shipped. Seems to have a good reputation.

Markbass: Looks like I can get something here for $600-700 brand new.

1973 Acoustic 370: I can get this for $425, but there is no cab to try it out with and I don't want to lug my SVT out there.

What do you guys think is the best bang for the buck? What else should I consider?

Thanks,
John

eyeballkid · #2 09-28-2011, 07:02 AM

an avalanche of folks saying M6 is about to begin.
it does 4 ohms.. youre good... ya just wanna make sure it has alot of vents on the topside of the amp.

okcrum · #3 09-28-2011, 07:06 AM

The GK 1001RBs are well supported, reliable, and sound excellent, as well.

Texan · #4 09-28-2011, 07:08 AM

Genz-Benz Shuttlemax 9.2...This is the most versitle amp I have ever owned. I've had SWR, Trace, Mesa, Ampeg...I'm sold on Genz. Find one and try it.

superqwertyboy · #5 09-28-2011, 07:13 AM

I would suggest the Ampeg SVT4, over the years I've had A LOT of different heads (GK, Hartke, Peavey, Trace Elliot, Carvin, Marshall) and I stopped chasing amp heads after I got my first one. This is just my preference. Its got a tube preamp, 1200w @ 4 ohms, and the "plumbing" out the back gives you a ton of options for patching the signal

bassgod0dmw · #6 09-28-2011, 07:21 AM

Of those you listed, I would go with the Mesa or the GK. I'd give a slight nod to the GK, but I'm a little biased owning a 2001 RB myself.

I don't think you can go wrong with either. Mesa makes great stuff as well, I've owned quite a few of their amps over the years...but I've never played an M6.

Mokebass · #7 09-28-2011, 08:31 AM

The Ampeg 8x10 is 4 ohms i think but it should cover all your suggested choices. If you a guitarist moving to bass maybe something more tubey would be better than the GK or Mesa Carbine.

Definately respect the Acoustic 370 but they weigh a ton.

johnpace2 · #8 09-28-2011, 10:01 AM

Thanks everyone, this has been very helpful!

Gearhead17 · #9 09-28-2011, 12:58 PM

I would consider any of those heads, except the Acoustic 370. The 370 is cool, but it's tough to say what kind of condition it is in and if you want headroom, the M6 or GK would be a good choice. Acoustic heads crush with Acoustic cabs though!

Can you try anything at the stores before buying them? They all sound different out of the box.