Combo for a Beginner

[scottder]

I currently have an Epiphone bass amp (my wife has actually been using it for her guitar as of late). Anyone have a recommendation for a good simple Combo that won't break the bank (don't need tons of volume here, since this is for home use only).

Any brands to avoid or look at for best bang-for-buck would be appreciated.

Scott

 

[jtc_hunter]

Best bang for the buck to get started, is to buy used . I would get a Gk Backline 600 head or an rb400 head and a 1-12 cab (or 2-10, oe 1-15) off Ebay. its not a combo, but for the same $ as a combo ,you will have a better setup AND be able to build on the system in the future. Most of us have went th combo way, thinking of simplicity and saving money, only to sell the combo later for a loss, then get a head and a cab. Also 2 lighter units are easier to carry than most combos

 

[srxplayer]

I would recommend using the search feature for more in-depth info but I can offer something to start with.

What is exactly "breaking the bank"? Set a budget and look for features that would be usefull as a beginner. I would look at the following brands for decent practice amps. Crate, Ibanez, Peavey, and Carvin.

I like a practice amp to have CD inputs (stereo RCA inputs) so you can run an MP3 player, CD Player or a Tascam Bass trailer through. I use those types or devices a lot myself when I practice. I would also look for something with a headphone jack. this way you don't anoy anyone while practicing.

Unless you are abolutely sure that you will never use it outside of a house for practice than you can go with a low wattage amp. If you think that you will be playing out with it and playing with a drummer go for some thing in excess of 100 watts. Preferably 200 watts. This drives the price up a lot so look at used gear if you have to. Used Peavey gear is cheap, plentiful and soildly built.

(by the way I'm not pushing my Peavey gear that I'm selling because it's not what your looking for)

You should be able to find find decent new "Practice" combo amps from Peavey, Carvin, Ibanez, and Crate in the 50 - 100 watt range for less than $250.00. You can get them used for a lot less. Check the TB classifieds.

Good luck.

 

[scottder]

Best bang for the buck to get started, is to buy used . I would get a Gk Backline 600 head or an rb400 head and a 1-12 cab (or 2-10, oe 1-15) off Ebay. its not a combo, but for the same $ as a combo ,you will have a better setup AND be able to build on the system in the future. Most of us have went th combo way, thinking of simplicity and saving money, only to sell the combo later for a loss, then get a head and a cab. Also 2 lighter units are easier to carry than most combos

Hmmm interesting though, save up a little more $$, the Epiphone can hold me for now. Even new there are some decent units at not-crazy prices