Double Bass Amp/Speaker for playing in Big Band

[rknea]

What is your amp/speaker suggestions for playing UB in a Big Band? I've seen a wide variety of info for playing in jazz combo's but nothing specific to Big Band. It's been suggested to stay away from 15" setups so I'm leaning towards an GK MB112, but I have 2 months before I actually start so am looking for some advice!

Thanks!

 

[sean_on_bass]

Do you have a budget? Also, what type of pickup do you use?

I've used the MB112 to great satisfaction. But if you are willing to spend more money there might be even better options for you.

 

[rknea]

I have a Shadow SH-965 pickup on my UB. I have a line on an MB112 but wanted to some additional opinions.

 

[Steven Ayres]

My EA Wizzy 12 has never let me down in big band. I put it up on a PA stand (which requires drilling a mount into it), but a chair does almost as well.

 

[Sam Sherry]

The reflexive response is, "I need a big rig to carry over sixteen people." Resist that! The entire point of big band playing is to blend in. And if your band is anything like my band, you're not going to solo most nights so "blend" is truly where it's at.

I only have one rig so it's the same setup for large or small ensemble: Sam --> bass --> Underwood --> Woods MI-225 --> 1x or 2x Euphonic VL-110. Our regular monthly concert venue is a 165-seat hall so the single speaker covers it well enough. In bigger rooms 2x is a help.

In short, your worship rig will probably be more than adequate. Let the fun begin!

 

[sean_on_bass]

Sam is correct, a 1x10 will get you where you need to be. I don't bring any more ampage for big band than i do for a small combo. For instance, i never needed to drive my MB112 beyond 1/2 of available gain(usually below that). You truly do need to blend as part of the ensemble. When the horns are at their loudest, you should barely hear the bass. When you have a solo, the whole band should come down to your level.

 

[Matthijs]

It depends very much on the band. What has been said holds true for most traditional big bands. But there are also those that favor a more prominent bass and if the band also ventures in salsa or other types of music that need a distinct bass, you might need more. Also the exact line up matters. If there are 3 baritones to compete with, you also might want a little more.

I myself use diy 2*12 and an eden wt300. But it's a world music band with a big band line up that needs a distinct bass. This is more than enough for most indoor gigs and just enough for some outdoor gigs.

 

[rknea]

Thanks Seanto and Sam! I've played electric bass in a number of bands and venues and agree with blending in. It's not "all about the bass" but we certainly provide a lot of support for the entire band, ensemble, group we are playing in. There will be very few solo opportunities in the Big Band and I'm perfectly content with that. Being good enough to play in a Big Band has been a 15 year dream so I'm pretty stoked to say the least. I think I'll use my Backline 110 for the first rehearsal and see what comments I get from the band leader. If the price is right I might upgrade to the MB 112 but as of right now...I think I'm ok. You guys have provided exactly the input I was looking for!! Thanks a LOT!