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Amp recommendation

Discussion in 'Amps and Cabs [BG]' started by Rusti, Jun 10, 2020.

  1. Jun 10, 2020 #1
    Rusti

    Rusti

    Apr 15, 2020
    Ruhr Region - Germany
    So, I just joined my first band as a bassist. It's a four piece (guitar, drums, keys, bass) and we cover classic rock songs (Cream, Hendrix, Beatles...).

    I am now in need of a decent amp I can use for band practice and possible gigs in the future. We have a pa-system in our rehearsal room, however, I would like an amp, that is not reliant on pa-support but is loud enough on its own for small to medium-sized (indoor-)gigs.

    What would you suggest as a decent amp for my needs? Budget is a little tight, 1000 Euro tops...oh, I'm living in Germany.

    Thanks in advance!
     
    alanloomis1980 likes this.
  2. Jun 10, 2020 #2
    dbase

    dbase Gold Supporting Member

    Jan 3, 2008
    South Jersey, USA..
    I'm thinking a Fender combo around 200 watts and 1 15" speaker used. should be cheap
     
    Polish Thunder, Rusti and alanloomis1980 like this.
  3. Jun 10, 2020 #3
    CallMeAl

    CallMeAl

    Dec 2, 2016
    Ithaca Ny
    Shopping new? Sounds like a Fender Rumble 500. You’ll have €s to spare should you need the extension cabinet (but you probably won’t.) the Rumble 200 (mentioned above) is great too, but they put some kinda voodoo magic into the 500, and it’s not much more.

    Shopping used? Worlds your oyster! I’d get a 500w head (~350w @ 8 ohms) and a 210 or 115. I personally like Fender, Ampeg, GK and Markbass, but whatever’s clever. Then you can add a second cabinet if/when needed.

    happy hunting!
     
    Polish Thunder and Rusti like this.
  4. Jun 10, 2020 #4
    Rusti

    Rusti

    Apr 15, 2020
    Ruhr Region - Germany
    I also thought about the Rumble 200 as I already have the Rumble 40 as a practice amp and really like it. I can't really explain, but I am leaning more towards the 200 than the 500. Maybe I like the idea of having 15 inch speaker.
     
    alanloomis1980 likes this.
  5. Jun 10, 2020 #5
    CallMeAl

    CallMeAl

    Dec 2, 2016
    Ithaca Ny
    I’ve used a Rumble 100 on many a small gig. Even that thing is loud. When my percussionist brings the cajon, I can fill up a small bar no PA. When he brings drums, I can use a PA line with great success.

    The 200 is loud and IMHO sounds great. Many around here gig with them, and choose it specifically for the 15. It does have extension out, so it wouldn’t be a dead end if it were under powered.

    The 500 is much louder, deep and rich but has a little more cut/clarity which I slightly preferred. The price difference is so small, the 500 seems like the better “bang for the buck.” Since you mentioned playing with no PA, the 500 seemed like the safe bet and less chance of you outgrowing it. BUT the 200 would probably serve you well; a lot depends on how loud your band mates play.

    good luck!
     
  6. Jun 14, 2020 #6
    flatrat

    flatrat

    Jul 8, 2017
    Like others have mentioned, the 200 will serve you well but the 500 sounds better. I still miss the smaller Rumbles because of the form factor and portability.
     
    alanloomis1980 likes this.