• TalkBass has been independent since 1998. Add your voice.
    Create a free account to reply to discussions, view embedded media, and browse with fewer display ads.
    Join free Log in
    Want zero display ads or expanded classifieds tools? Compare plans.

Alrighty, Whats a Good Loud Combo Amp

Osztertag2112

Osztertag2112

Guest
Jan 27, 2013
351
63
#1
Hey guys, im sure this has been asked before, actually Ive read a couple threads already on the topic, but I would like to know, what is a good combo amp that I can get some good wattage out of.

I play rock music, and like a dirty sound, but what combo amp can get me a loud boomy sound. Id like to spend under $1000 on it if I can, and it would be something to cut through two guitars and fill some clubs and bars.

I dont really care if its a new or used or tube or solid state, im not to picky.
 
#2
For less than a $1,000 you can get a good used amp head and cabinet.

If you're looking for a loud combo you should be able to pick up a used one easily for around $500. GK MB212-II or MB115 are loud. Or an Ampeg BA115HP.

Personally I would look at a solid state 500w micro head and a cab or two. Which one to get depends on your taste. Try some out and then buy one used here in TB.
 
#5
If it must be a combo, I have always been very impressed with the Mark Bass 115 combos, but at your price, it would have to be used.

For the volume you need, a combo isn't going to be the best value. Used GK MB500 and a good used 410 or 212 is going to bury most any combo in your price range.
 
#7
Osztertag2112 said:
Hey guys, im sure this has been asked before, actually Ive read a couple threads already on the topic, but I would like to know, what is a good combo amp that I can get some good wattage out of.

I play rock music, and like a dirty sound, but what combo amp can get me a loud boomy sound. Id like to spend under $1000 on it if I can, and it would be something to cut through two guitars and fill some clubs and bars.

I dont really care if its a new or used or tube or solid state, im not to picky.
Click to expand...

Yeah, checkout the new Gallien-Krueger MB212-II, and MB410-II combos - they're lightweight, compact, 500 Watts each and affordable. http://www.talkbass.com/forum/f15/gk-mb410-ii-mbp410-ii-1030305/
 
#12
SuperK said:
For less than a $1,000 you can get a good used amp head and cabinet.

If you're looking for a loud combo you should be able to pick up a used one easily for around $500. GK MB212-II or MB115 are loud. Or an Ampeg BA115HP.

Personally I would look at a solid state 500w micro head and a cab or two. Which one to get depends on your taste. Try some out and then buy one used here in TB.
Click to expand...

Combos always seem to be a compromise. You either get small and boxy sounding or large, heavy and/or expensive. :hiding:

A micro amp and a cab or two is, for me, much more versatile, easier to carry and more adaptable to the venue/rehearsal space.

You can often find a great set for well under $1k...
 
#13
My son has had success with his GK MB212 Combo. We bought it used for $350. Full 500 watts into 2 12" speakers, DI for PA use, and more than loud enough blown wide open for his rock band with a heavy hitting drummer.
 
#20
Echoing the love for the GK here -- I run a MB500 into a 212 Neo II for most rock gigs and have no problem holding my own in the mix. I also have a 112 Neo that I mostly use with an MB200 for practice at home, but stack up with the 212 for more loud goodness from the MB500 when I need it. I will warn you though -- this kind of G-K rig has more of a tight than boomy low-end. I can dial in a pretty fat bottom, but it's always crisp and articulate. I dig the sound, but if you're looking for that more felt than heard effect it might not be your thing.

I have a nice Ashdown ABM 210 combo that I like for that tubey, overdriven, resonant sound. Paired with a 210 or 115 extension cab, it's a complete monster (575 honest watts) and it holds its own well even without another cab. The current UK-built models they're selling are fairly expensive (I think around $1500), but I have an older one that's China-built (and been completely flawless in its functioning for five years) I have up on Craig's List for about a third of that. I may put it up here if I can't sell it local. Again, you gotta like the Ashdown sound which is its own thing, but I think they make some great, often-overlooked gear.

Good luck!
 

Latest posts

Top Bottom
Back