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Another amp advice post

Take this for what's it's worth, I was trying out a Subway 115 and there 410 cans in a Guitar Center store, in Houston, and they had a Subway 350, got them to hook it up to the cabs and played with it for about 30 minutes or so, and it was easy to dial in a good time ( I currently have the 800+, so I'm familiar with the tone stack ), really couldn't push, but the tone shaping ability was pretty good, I'd suspect the amp could be used on small clubs volume wise, of using some somewhat efficient speakers, best part, is there support for the amp, if needed, as to the other part of my body to GC, didn't buy any cans, as the sales rep, said the covers were NOT included, and an extra cost, called Mesa Boogie, and was informed, that they are included with the can, I'll just take my business elsewhere
 
Yeah yeah, I know. Opinion needed, I am looking for a 250 watt amp. Looking at the Markbass little mark 250 watt head. I also read where it is suggested to get Genzler MG 350. I see them used on GC website. I play at a small low key gig, Hartke HD 1x12 cab or a 2x10 cab. Oldies. Here is my question, get a new Markbass or a used Genzler MG?
Be kind to me.
Overwhelmingly the Genzler MG350 and I would not be at all worried about used. I picked up a used one from a friend before I bought my MG350 Combo, sold the new head and kept the used one. Genzler willingness and ability to back their products is second to none. Jeff Genzler posts in the Genzler Amplification thread several time per week answering questions and giving suggestions to owners/buyers.

Although the head will sound fine through any cab I'd also recommend saving some bucks and buying one of the Bass Array cabs. They are an incredible advancement in bass cabinetry. Not inexpensive but definitely worth it. I use two BA 110-2 Series 2 cabs with my MG350 and the clarity and punch in incredible. The BA 112 is also a great cab giving you a rounder more full bottom end. IMHO they're a legacy purchase.
 
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I have a Little Mark 250. I absolutely love it. Sounds great. BUT. It's older, and has required service, and I took one for the team to find out how that went. It went great, but the cost was pretty much nearly the same as buying a new head. Considering the Genzler service program is fantastic, I would definitely put that high on my considerations. I haven't played that one, so I can't comment on that, but if all is equal in that regard ...
 
try before you buy ideally. but the issue there is room acoustics, time with the gear. many factors can influence your perceptions. it is difficult to a/b compare if you don't have the good fortune of having both at the same location.

I will offer an alternative view/reality: playstyle, strings, bass, effects, amp + eq, cab, room acoustics, room position, your hearing. I am sure i missed something.

Point is… an amp is a small part of that signal chain. get an amp with the power your need (extra never hurts), and a usable eq (no stress if you have an eq pedal) to dial into the room. reliability is key obviously. budgets are a reality. there are lots of bedrooom queen used gear out there though.

live… your goal is not perfect tone (it will change based on room, listener room position, and blood alcohol level. Rather, it is making the best of the environment you have.

you are the key element. dont stress amps. both will be fine.
 
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Simple version:
if you're located in the US portion of "earth"; Genzler.

Simple reason:
Genzler is 1 of 2 manufactures that come to mind with unbeatable support and service.

MarkBass? ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

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Otherwise: IME
You can get all the opinions you want and make an "informed" choice, but you'll never really know until you try the (amp, cab, bass) for yourself.
Since it's on GCs site - I'd start with the Magellan.
If it doesn't do it for you - you can return it.;

100% I'm here to shill for Genzler as well. Awesome products, tones and support / build quality. I have a MB r500(old I know) and while it's loud, it doesn't sound particularly "nice"
 
The ONLY negative regarding a used Genzler is no warranty. There's a warranty available for purchase from GC or MF.

I feel that with the build quality and accessibility of service this is almost a non issue. I have TONs of Genzler stuff, all bought used and never had an issue. I've gotten such good low key support from Jeff and Agedhorse I've never considered not having a warranty being a problem. The Magellans are so lightweight, shipping for service wouldn't break the bank at all.

Now the 50lb GBE1200 in my profile pic might be a different story haha.
 
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I feel that with the build quality and accessibility of service this is almost a non issue. I have TONs of Genzler stuff, all bought used and never had an issue. I've gotten such good low key support from Jeff and Agedhorse I've never considered not having a warranty being a problem. The Magellans are so lightweight, shipping for service wouldn't break the bank at all.

Now the 50lb GBE1200 in my profile pic might be a different story haha.
I can't argue that. It's fine gear! Unless it was dropped off a moving truck, you're likely to be good.
 
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