Analog modeling on a bass amp?

[JimmyM]

I'm not being a gear snob. Players come here all the time trying to find a much cheaper way to get around getting a bass amp. It never really seems to work out for them, and they just end up spending even more money because their workaround idea didn't do what they wanted it to do.
A PA is certainly a viable option, but is not going to be cheaper than buying a standalone bass amp and give the same sound/volume.

I have to agree with this post in its entirety.

 

[AgressivePassiv]

Guys, the kid asked us how to get a certain kind of sound with more volume within an almost unworkable budget. I wanted to show him a viable option instead of convincing him to spend more money.

Yes if he really takes to playing our instrument he'll need to upgrade if he wants to play with a loud drummer or start gigging. And if he does start/join a band having a partial PA to build on isn't the worst thing in the world.

 

[Munjibunga]

In case it hasn't been said, you'd be best off getting a dedicated bass multi-effect by someone like Zoom, Boss, Line6 or a plethora of others and putting that in front of whatever you've got for amplification. That way, as you improve your amplifier and cab, you still have good-quality effects to run through them. There's nothing especially convenient or preferable in having on-board effects.

 

[honeyiscool]

The best suggestion I have seen so far is a Peavey bass amp. A used one from a pawn shop or Guitar Center (in store or online) should be well under $300. Get plenty of wattage. Then add a preamp pedal, perhaps used, for another hundred or less. My favorite is Tech 21 Oxford.