Buying a bass amp for dummies...

[SuzyCreamcheese]

Hi all,

I'm buying a "high end" bass amp for the first time (I own a Line6, which I bought without even trying it out and by recommendation of a salesmen, for practice and always borrow from people/friends for gigs).
I've set my sights on a MarkBass CMD 12" but I need to know what to ask and say when buying an amplifier without coming over like a complete moron and to avoid being ripped of.

 

[wingnut]

Ask about the return policy and procedure and the warranty and get it in writing. Ask about the ohms and extension cabs. Try out the rig with as many different basses as possible as you never know what basses you may end up with. Bring another musician with you and have them play the bass while you listen from audience distance. There will be a difference in sound between close and far. Trust your ears, no matter how much it costs, if you don't like the tone, you don't like it, period.

 

[tjh]

JMHO, but if you are borrowing bass amps from friends, they must be able to help you with input on what it is you want/need ... perhaps even take one of them with you as you educate yourself on what is out there. Have you borrowed something that you like?? ... buy the same, used if possible, as your tastes will surely change over time, that way you can sell without taking as big of a hit.