Amp, cab or bass?

BigOldHarry · #1 03-09-2011, 01:28 PM

I'm curious where folks are at with this...

It has been often said that it's better to have a better amp than bass, as a bad amp can make a great bass sound like crap...

I have a corallary theory to that: Folks who invest in a better amp are guys who gig; Folks who put their resources more into their bass are less likely gigging musicians...

Of course, some dudes have the $$ to get both... but they don't count...

So poll away!

maches · #2 03-09-2011, 01:35 PM

I agree with the sentiment that it is better to have a quality amp and lesser guitar than the other way around. I am going to school full time and only work part time so I don't have a lot of money for either, but I definitely invest more in the amp/cab aspect.

I think that a lot of beginners don't realize how much of the sound that they are after is in the amp and playing style and not the bass/guitar itself. At least I did.

Zitch · #3 03-09-2011, 01:40 PM

I voted amp/cab, but the bass does make a difference, i feel the amp has more impact though.

Phalex · #4 03-09-2011, 01:41 PM

I think your theory is probably sound.

I had to go with Carrots.

I've never had a ton of money to throw into anything. All of my amps / cabs have been Carvin for the last 20 years or so. They aren't super high end expensive, but they get the job done. I just can't justify the high price tag some amp manufacturers charge.

I played a Rickenbacker for years. I bought it new for $850.00 in the early 90's. A few years back I fell in love with a Hoppus P-Bass that I got on E-bay for $350.00.

So, I've recently "Downgraded" my bass, and I also recently "Downgraded" to a combo, and I've never been happier with my gear.

(Personally I'm a believer in the better amp theory, but I just don't practice it.)

HaMMerHeD · #5 03-09-2011, 01:49 PM

I am cheap/poor, but I do care about how I sound. I have reasonably decent equipment...nothing earthshattering...and it was all thoroughly researched and purchased over a several year span. I am pretty happy with how it sounds, but there are certainly changes I would make if it was a priority.

T-MOST · #6 03-09-2011, 01:51 PM

I would go for the bass. A great amp won't make a crappy bass sound any better than the othe way around... and I gig weekly.

My name is Mudd · #7 03-09-2011, 02:57 PM

I usually end up splitting my limited bass funds between both (and effects) - right now, I'm pretty happy with both of my Schecters (although the Stiletto is going in for a pre-amp upgrade shortly), and I'm REALLY happy with my main amp & cab and so the current shopping is for a cab for my little Epi head.

BTW - given the above, I voted for carrots.

MatticusMania · #8 03-09-2011, 03:04 PM

You didnt have the option I'd vote for: Booze/Drugs

I dont even have an amp, and yes, I'm a gigging musician! (ok, I kinda have an amp, but its really a PA).

My most expensive bass cost me $300. Its super sweet, though, sounds like butter!

Ive probably spent more money on effects actually. Currently Im using about $400 worth of pedals, not including the ones Ive left off my board.