• 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 freeLog in
    Want zero display ads or expanded classifieds tools? Compare plans.

Ashdown amps

fcleff

Inactive
Apr 22, 2005
1,461
16,432
Austin, Texas
I'm thinking of getting an Ashdown MAG300 1x15 combo. My concern is how much of a gig it could handle. Most of what I do is freelance/small gigs so I think it would be fine. However, in the event that I need to do a large venue would this amp cut it?

:bassist:
 
HELLonWheels187 said:
Why not the 410 Combo instead? I think then you would be a better choice although a lot more wieght.

http://www.ashdownmusic.co.uk/bass/detail.asp?ID=79

It's really a matter of affordability, mostly. I usually don't do really loud gigs either, just once in a blue moon. I wouldn't be adamant against having another cabinet when I need it, though. That actually seems like a good idea.
:bassist:
 
fcleff said:
It's really a matter of affordability, mostly. I usually don't do really loud gigs either, just once in a blue moon. I wouldn't be adamant against having another cabinet when I need it, though. That actually seems like a good idea.
:bassist:
I don't know what sound your looking for but there is also a 210 model that only $100 more which is less than most cabs.
 
I used mine for a couple of years playing weddings and functions in two bands. both just 4 piece with two guitars but it held up well. no stacks mind. played to betwen 50-300 people. i did have to push it a bit on a couple of gigs but never went over 3/4 on the master. i have always thought if i needed more power we should have PA suport (we only use Vocal PA's)
The C-115 has a nice earthy sound and it seems to suit all our songs but then we dont do anything too heavy (the Darkness and Bon Jovi being probably the heaviest)
 
I can't comment on the combo, but I play the head through an 8ohm cabinet and I never have a problem keeping up, Ive actually never had the volume over half. I'm in rock band that plays small to medium gigs, so Im sure the combo will probably serve you well.
 
I'd say most gigs, but not all. You'll need PA support or an extra cab for larger venues or rooms that soak up the low end. I played a room that had a low ceiling and just barely cut it. After that, I ordered a cab to go with it. It's loud for a single speaker combo. But it is a single speaker combo. If you find yourself squeezed for volume, you can try cutting the lows just a bit and cranking the volume or add just a touch of PA if you can.
Good luck.
 
HELLonWheels187 said:
I don't know what sound your looking for but there is also a 210 model that only $100 more which is less than most cabs.

I converted my MAG300 head into a 2x10 combo (at 4ohms), and it's suitably loud for small gigs, and with PA support it would probably be plenty unless I was playing hard rock or something.
I'd recommend going with the MAG300+2x10 combo, that way you can add a 15" if you need more butt-kick, but you'll have the nice articulation of 10's when you're using it by itself.
The 1x15 combo would be roughly the same, but I personally don't like 15" combos.
C7
 
Sorry to be picky but 'larger' is a relative word - larger than what? It will probably handle most pub venues you are looking at but if you are talking larger clubs and halls then the extra cab will make an exponential difference. It will give you the extra wattage when you need it or make a nice coffee table when you don't. You can pick up a an extra Mag 15 cab damned cheap these days and two 15"s with 307w will be starting to move some air! Crescent sevens suggestions is ideal if you can afford it.
 
I have the MAG-300 head that I use with an Avatar 2X10 Delta and 112 Neo. The head has no problem keeping up with 2 guitars when I use both cabs. Also gives me the flexibility of going with just either of the two cabinets if I want to. I've become a big believer in the "modular" approach.
 
Dont forget we are talking about a 300 wattt amp here.
I have found that there wasnt any of our gigs i couldnt do with mine but there is a difference between being heard and being felt out front. my MAG could be heard on the dance floors but not really felt, especialy the low E and not at the back of the room. To project the low notes across a dance floor cleanly would take a bit more IMHO. another cab yes, but also a bit more headroom wouldnt go a mis.
Just my findings after 2 years with one.
 
i've had mine for a couple months now...havnt really gigged it that much though. just a few little coffee house gigs with my buddy on acoustic guitar and his friend playin drums with brushes. dose fine for that without pushing the amp hardly at all. Im still planning on buying another 15 for it though, just for that little extra kick in the pants (but then again, i like the sound of 15s). just try em out and go with what ya like man.:bassist: