barts & kents & ampeg

hello all,

good morning. just in need of opinions and suggestions. has anyone tried the bartolini mm5cbc and/or kent armstrong hmbn1. what are the differences in output, sound and noise.

i know that there's a big price difference. obviously the barts are always a safe bet but i read that on the MM series the output has actually lowered and it's a little too "clean", is that true? I read the KA has a more beefy sound, but does it distort is my concern. unfortunately i cant find much reviews on these. My play list is more 80% rock/alternative and maybe 20% funk. It would most likely go through an ampeg head & an 8x10. By the way I am still in the hunt for an affordable 8x10. I was told the 8x10 would get the sound i need. Anyone selling thiers? or would you suggest another brand & speaker configuration with same or better, more affordable.

i'm looking for a strong low tone sound, highs when needed. good sustain and drive. but yet clean.

the pick up is going into an inexpensive bass with a MM type pickup on the bridge and a J on the middle/neck. what brand J pick up do you think will go well w/ the MM? i would like to wire the pick ups with a switch to run them separately and mixed. the bass has good tone quality and resonance, neck feels great that's whay i picked it up but i know the pickups aren't that well made.

thanks a bunch, i know its such a newbie post but i promise not to post soo much any takers?

SXRIDE
North NJ 07109