Best head under $400?

[Greg O]

Hey guys,
I now run a Hartke 3500A which is great for my Warwick but not so great for my upright. i have been looking at my best choice for a head that has good volume and tone. If you have any suggestions of a head a broke high-scholler could afford, please let me know.
Peace,
Greg O

[robgrow]

You should be able to find a used series I or II Acoustic Image Clarus for around that price. As long as you don't need mega power, they are very good, solid amps. If you are looking for something super cheap, consider an older GK 400RB, which is often available for under $200. A very common bass guitar head that also sounds good for double bass.

[thesneakyjesus]

if you can find a series II clarus for less then $400, I'd be upset, because I just bought a series I I think for abot $530.

[fdeck]

Read my geeky review of the GK Backline 600 head.

[fdeck]

Also, follow some of the incredibly geeky material at my little web site about measuring the response curve of your amp. If you can look at the curve, it might give you a clue as to why you don't like the Hartke, and a possible strategy for dialing it to your liking.

And another thing... what's the input impedance on the Hartke? Maybe all you need is a preamp.

[Freddels]

There's always the GK MB150 head.