Worth the upgrade? (Ampeg BSE410H to Ampeg SVT410HLF)
 

As the title says, I am currently looking to upgrade from my ampeg BSE410H(8ohm, 200W handling) to an Ampeg SVT410HLF(4ohm, 500W handling). The main reason I'm looking to change cabs is I don't feel like I'm getting the full power of my Ampeg pf500 using the smaller, sealed 8ohm cab. I also feel like this cab sounds a little thin and the HLF will be more "full" and "open". I've found a HLF in pristine condition on craigslist for $400 and I bought the bse for $150 about a year and a half ago. I can probably turn it around for $200-250. Would you guys recommend that I make this upgrade? Will the difference be noticeable?

The 410HLF is not a loud cab despite it's size. It sounds like a classic Ampeg but deeper. I don't need that extra low end personally. If you want significantly more percieved volume, I might check out some other offerings. Bag End 410 are one of my favorite alternatives to Ampeg and can be found for $300-$500. They're still deep, punchy, and full range but louder per watt. The one caveat is that they weigh a metric s--- ton. I also really like Genz Benz cabs for the same reasons. They also tend to be more manageable in the weight deparment.

Check out my signature for what I'm running these days. Used to pair the 3-Pro with the 410HLF years ago. Switched to the Avatars for size/weight/transport ease, also allowing me to take only one cab for smaller jazz gigs. But the HLF just had this deep "hugeness" to the sound that I still can't replicate with the Avatars. I really miss it sometimes, especially when I use my 6 strings and want to feel (not just hear) the B string.

That's one of the main reasons I want to upgrade. I play in a heavily 80's/early 90's influenced metal band and love the monstrous, room filling Ampeg tone... but I can't justify buying the 610 or 810 because I don't have any trouble with volume and I don't have a place to store a cab that big. I use a Gibson Thunderbird and 2012 Explorer bass and I feel like the bse410 has trouble with the low notes of these basses as well.

In that case, the 410 HLF will probably be great for you.

Please note: the MIA HLFs sound darker and duller than the newer, asian ones. I prefer the newer ones myself.