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Best way to spend $300-500

T

txpitdog

Jan 1, 2006
110
96
#1
I've been learning on an old but still operable Fender Frontman 15. It's got a grounding issue so that's a little annoying. Anyway I want to get a better amp, not so much for volume but to hear the full potential of my jazz bass and Stingray.

I've been looking at the usual new 1x15 and 2x10 combos and craigslist for used gear. I know you can get more for your money buying used, but I don't really know enough about amps or cabinets to maximize my dollar buying used gear.

I'm not in a band, probably won't be for the foreseeable future, but don't want to spend money twice if the opportunity ever comes up.

So should I just not overthink it and get something like a Fender Rumble 500 or is something like this way better for the money?

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It's overkill but is it a better way to spend $350?

Beginner guidance appreciated
 
#2
I recently bought a Fender Rumble 25. While researching it i was blown away by the sound of the new Rumble combos and their relatively light weight. If I had $350 to spend the Rumble 500 would be on my list. I am rethinking the Rumble 25 purchase and considering returning it for a Rumble 40.
 
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#4
Hey lundborg, try out the V3 Rumble 200, $399 at most retail stores, you can beat them up for a discount and get it for around $375. Great amp, light weight and the ability to add a cab. Much lighter than the Ampeg and better tone and looks. I also have the V3 Rumble 40 and great for home practice but will never be heard over a drum kit.
 
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#5
That CL cab looks a bit "iffy". If you go the combo route, I would focus on something that will accommodate an extension cab, as you might need it someday! The Rumble 500 would be a very good choice. It get's a lot of love on here, and is very light. Another great choice is the Genz Benz Contour. Incredible bang for the buck closeout pricing of about $360 delivered! Carvin also does a somewhat similar affordable.combo.
 
#6
Agree that you would be wise to take a close look, and audition some Fender Rumble combos. For jamming with friends and a drummer and for bar band gigs, the Rumble 200 1x15 combo is an excellent choice at $400. Check out the: love; rave reviews, and gig reports at the Fender Rumble Club. http://www.talkbass.com/threads/fender-rumble-club.970397/page-110

Also it doesn't make any sense to buy used when you can buy brand new for the same $$$.
 
#7
I tried several Ampeg small amps and the Rumble. The Ampeg didn't do it for me. The GC also had an Ampeg BA-110 that had a strong hmm/buzz. I like the 25; but for another $100 it's 3 lbs lighter with more power, larger speaker and more features.
 
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#8
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No, no, no...not this. It is completely carved up. Once upon a time it would have been a great rig (for larger venues) but he sawed the head off a combo, or cut off the single rack space on the bottom, and swapped out two of the speakers. Who knows what else has been done to it.
If not buying new as suggested above, keep looking at your local music store for a used rig to come in that fits your needs and budget. You can play through it and maybe even get some kind of return policy if you end up changing your mind.
 
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#10
OldPlucker said:
I recently bought a Fender Rumble 25. While researching it i was blown away by the sound of the new Rumble combos and their relatively light weight. If I had $350 to spend the Rumble 500 would be on my list. I am rethinking the Rumble 25 purchase and considering returning it for a Rumble 40.
Click to expand...
I have a Rumble 25 along with V2 Rumble 75 & 350. Do take a very close look & listen to the Rumble 100. It's only slightly larger than the 40, and to me has much better sound with a stronger tighter bottom end. If you're not a member of the Fender Rumble Club come on over and join the fun! :)
 
#12
OldPlucker said:
I tried several Ampeg small amps and the Rumble. The Ampeg didn't do it for me. The GC also had an Ampeg BA-110 that had a strong hmm/buzz. I like the 25; but for another $100 it's 3 lbs lighter with more power, larger speaker and more features.
Click to expand...
Yes OldPlucker, ampeg combos are notorious for: hissing; buzzing, farting, and rattling. Not to mention S.A.D.S. (Sudden Ampeg Death Syndrome). Here's a thread where the OP bought a brand new ampeg BA-108 from Guitar Center and took it back due to strong buzzing speaker and exchanged it for another. Same buzzing speaker problem. Took that one back and got a Fender Rumble 40 instead. I love a happy ending! ;) http://www.talkbass.com/threads/ampeg-ba-108-speaker-buzzing-can-it-be-fixed.1102558/
Here's one D.O.A. http://www.talkbass.com/threads/ampeg-ba-108-wont-work.1030101/
 
Last edited:
#17
txpitdog said:
I've been learning on an old but still operable Fender Frontman 15. It's got a grounding issue so that's a little annoying. Anyway I want to get a better amp, not so much for volume but to hear the full potential of my jazz bass and Stingray.

I've been looking at the usual new 1x15 and 2x10 combos and craigslist for used gear. I know you can get more for your money buying used, but I don't really know enough about amps or cabinets to maximize my dollar buying used gear.

I'm not in a band, probably won't be for the foreseeable future, but don't want to spend money twice if the opportunity ever comes up.

So should I just not overthink it and get something like a Fender Rumble 500 or is something like this way better for the money?

[Invalid or Expired Link Removed]

It's overkill but is it a better way to spend $350?

Beginner guidance appreciated
Click to expand...
I'd hit that in a heart beat. That's pro gear that will last you years and do most anything you want.
 

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