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Bigger bang for the buck??

#41
devinp17 said:
So now I understand that wattage pretty much only gives you more headroom, and not much more volume. But I'll get more volume if I get a bigger cab, correct? So basically you're saying I can stick to the 500w amp idea (as long as it gives me the headroom I want), but I should rethink my cab idea, and get a bigger cab for more volume... right??
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yes.
 
#43
i'm a fancy, expensive cab guy, so i'd probably send you the wrong way on your budget. i'd say the peavey lines might be a good place to start. i'd look for an 8 ohm modular rig, so two 8ohm 15s or 410 or 212 cabs.

if you can find them used, Schroeder cabs have a reputation for being loud as hell because of the eq bump they have built in, which also gives them a signature tone that some will disagree on the merits of.
 
#46
monsterthompson said:
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$300 for an 8ohm cab with 800w handling. you could add a second and run a 1,600w @ 4ohm head into a pair (800w per cab). i can't speak to their efficiency nor tone..
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Those are the ones I was looking at before. Do you think I should start with 1 of those then add another when I need it? And if I did start with just 1 of them, would it be a good amount of volume do you think?
 
#50
I'm using a GK MB500 Fusion into a 4-ohm Avatar B212 Neo (55 lbs) - sounds great and I can't imagine needing more volume. Bought both used off of the TB classifieds too :D
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#51
devinp17 said:
Those are the ones I was looking at before. Do you think I should start with 1 of those then add another when I need it? And if I did start with just 1 of them, would it be a good amount of volume do you think?
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I would expect it to be okay but have no real world knowledge. I can only suggest researching them.
 
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#52
I have the Ampeg PF800 and that sucker has been rock solid and reliable for the better part of a year. My band plays lots of gigs and plays them LOUD. I can't say enough good things about that head. Seriously huge and warm tone as well.

edit: And for what it's worth I've had a Carvin head I bought BRAND NEW blow up on me 3 times.
 
#54
devinp17 said:
I looked at the PF series before, but I heard that they have some problems such as dying in the middle of gigs or whatever, even while not pushing them very hard. But maybe that's just the 350 and 500? Does anyone have more info on this? Does the 800 do the same thing?

Thanks!
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I never heard of trouble with the PF-800. Most of the issues were the early PF-500, although mine has been great!
 
#55
I'd recommend looking into SWR Golliath series 410 cabs used. Not only are they very efficient, they're excellent sounding, built as good as all the high end cabs out there and, they can be had super cheap on kijiji and other used sites, including TB. Their only down side really is that they're a little heavy and you can't get replacement speakers anymore. There are plenty of recone kits available though and a few good recone speaker guys in the Toronto area should you ever blow a speaker.

Also, if you're looking into used gear, Eden XLT cabs can be had cheap because of their weight but man do they sound great and really push a lot of air efficiency wise.
Either of those coupled with a GK MB500 or PF500 would get you where you want to go on the cheap. I'd also recommend a used SWR head like the SM400S or SM500 as they're soooo cheap on the used market (often $250-$275) and are pro level amps that can dish out some serious power. I'd suggest putting a VT Bass or Sansamp infront of one of those for that huge Ampeg tone on the cheap.
 
#57
Devin, look at Kijiji ads too! I have found treasures there and most are located within a few hours of you! One more thing, I suggest not focusing on having an amp for the next ten years. Chances are that, like most of us, your gear will change along with your skill, knowledge and income in the years ahead. Keep rock in'! . Marc
 
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#58
Moosehead1966 said:
Devin, look at Kijiji ads too! I have found treasures there and most are located within a few hours of you! One more thing, I suggest not focusing on having an amp for the next ten years. Chances are that, like most of us, your heat will change along with your skill, knowledge and income in the years ahead. Keep rock in'! . Marc
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Thanks! I do look at Kijiji quite often, and eBay has worked out great too.
 
#59
I own a B1500 currently, and use it as my main gigging head. I've compared this head side by side with all the GK micro heads, the MarkBass LMII, Mesa Boogie tube stuff etc... Though yes it is subjective, I must assert that the B1500 outshines all of those with regard to warmth and tone. It just sounds sooooooooooo full and buttery.. Unbelievable for a Solid State head. B1500 all the way, you won't be disappointed.
 
#60
I have the GK MB500 and a Markbass LM III. These are both great amps. I have to admit, I am slightly more partial to the Markbass. Either way, get the GK, it's great. Team it with a nice 4x10 cab, and that will get you through just about any gig. Add another 4x10 if you need it. I pair mine with either a 2x10 Avatar for smaller gigs/practice, and a Carvin BRX 410. though lately, I have just been using the 410 for gigs and the 210 for practice
 

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