Worth the upgrade? (Ampeg BSE410H to Ampeg SVT410HLF)

TreetarDed · #1 02-17-2013, 01:15 PM

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?

christw · #2 02-17-2013, 01:20 PM

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.

the_fooj · #3 02-17-2013, 01:42 PM

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.

TreetarDed · #4 02-17-2013, 02:04 PM

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.

christw · #5 02-17-2013, 02:12 PM

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

AlexanderB · #6 02-17-2013, 02:24 PM

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