• TalkBass has been independent since 1998. Add your voice.
    Create a free account to reply to discussions, view embedded media, and browse with fewer display ads.
    Join free Log in
    Want zero display ads or expanded classifieds tools? Compare plans.

Feedback wanted - which rig should I buy?

J

jehhorton

Nov 29, 2013
36
2
Mansfield, TX
#1
Ok, I'm brand new to the forum, so please feel free to direct me to threads that may have already answered this question.

I am currently playing an (american made, first year) Ampeg BA 115 hp, which I like, and am pretty happy with. I now have the resources to get a large rig. I am considering the Victor Wooten rig (Lh1000, 410hx, 115hx) from Hartke, Ampeg stacks in the same price ($1500-$2000) range, GK stacks, same power and price range, or the Carvin stack, much cheaper for the same setup. My problem - I love the ampeg sound, and can try out all of the above locally (DFW), but not side by side. Also, I can't try out the carvin stack, obviously. I need something that works equally well with a P-bass, G&L SB-2, or 5 string with EMG's. Opinions?
 
#7
slade said:
If you know you dig Ampeg stay with Ampeg.
Click to expand...

+1

Any of those rigs will work well and sound great with your basses. But if you love the Ampeg's sound already, you should stick with that. Already some good suggestions here. Go with the V4B suggestion if you can swing the cash and want a tube head. Opt for the PF800 if you want to go lighter weight and solid state.
 
#10
Thanks everyone for the responses. since there were no Carvin supporters, and I can't try one out, I'm gonna go a/b some hartke and ampeg rigs at the megastores tomorrow, then make my decision. I'll check out whatever else they have that's similar, but I'm guessing I'll end up with one of those two. Thanks again!
 
#13
Vince Klortho said:
If I were going to spend that much money on a system I would trust MY ears and not the opinions of others. Listen to as my amps and cabinets as you can and try to buy from some place with a good return policy. Also consider used equipment.
Click to expand...

That's how I usually buy, just trying to shortcut the process a little. I will buy used once I've decided, if used is available and reasonable. To me, reasonable used is 1/2 to 3/4 of retail, and most people are trying to sell used stuff for 90% of retail if it's in good shape.
 
#16
I like the 7 Pro a lot but I'm getting a PF800. Form factor's a little smaller, sounds pretty close to the 7 Pro, and truth be told it's a backup to my tube Ampegs anyway. I'm also a fan of some of the Hartke stuff, but Ampeg is my true love, so even though I've had some dalliances with other stuff occasionally, I stick with it because nothing quite satisfies me like it.
 
#17
jehhorton said:
What about the SVT 7? I see a lot of them, but nobody seems in love with them
Click to expand...

I've got one- it's a fantastic amp. There were some failures early on and TB pounced- amp got a bad wrap as did Ampeg. I've used mine on I would guess about 100 gigs now- fantastic, warm, and powerful. I'm not completely happy with the character of the mids, and really have to work to get them where I want them, but other than that it's a great amp and I'd highly recommend one (as someone who has gigged one hard)
 
#18
I disagree with most here pushing 810s. Why? Odds are most will never need one. Instead of size why not buy quality. If you like Ampeg why not get the classic with a 410. King daddy Ampeg amp and a manageable package usable in all situations and size is perfect for almost every situation. And if you really want 810 then later get another 410. Same thing without having to be hindered by moving a refrigerator everytime. 810s most of the time are just overkill.
 
#19
^ agreed. I played a Mesa Combo with 2x12's last night that easily pounded as hard as most average 8x10's. If anyone needed more power than that I wouldn't want to jam with them or go see them play as I would be afraid of being vaporized.

Since everyone always does it I'll throw in an "off menu" suggestion. Mesa Carbine if you can try one out. Sounded great with my P Bass.
 

Latest posts

Top Bottom
Back