Fender Rumble 200 or 500?

[ChrisWolfBass]

Which should I get?

I'm looking to jam with a dummer, but would also like something that has the potential for gigs.

I'm not sure how heads and cabs and all that works because I'm kind of new to the amp world. But if I get an R500 combo amp, will I be covered as far as gigs go, or will I have to get cab extensions? And if I have to get cab extensions, should I just get the R200 and save money for the cabs?

 

[dbase]

Get the 500 combo amp and save for an extension cab

 

[Thundar]

I agree with dbase...just get the 500c and then save for an extension cab....or wait for a used one to show up on Craigslist, GuitarCenter or Facebook (I see them a lot). I know some folks that say they get by with a 200c in band situations, but there is no way I could use one in a band unless I had very good PA support.

 

[Rezdog]

Greetings from the North,

I'm not a fan of 10's but the Rumble 500 is an exceptional combo. With an extension it should satisfy you for a long time.

Rezdog

 

[ChrisWolfBass]

Thank you. The 500 seems to be the way to go.

 

[CallMeAl]

Just testing them side by side, I found the 500 to be louder. And IMO sounded better, a little clearer and mid-forward. But some say the 200 sounds better, a little warmer, richer. I only preferred the 500 by an inch, the 200 is a fantastic amp as well.

Personally, I’d go 500 because it a better chance of having a “do it all” combo without needing the extension. Unless you’re playing super loud music, 350w & 2x10s is a pretty safe bet. For an extra 100 bucks and 2 lbs, it seems like the smart choice to me.

 

[theduke1]

I have the Rumble 500 and love it!
Duke

 

[joelns]

IMO, this is a matter of taste. I went with the 200 as I generally don't like the tone from 10" speakers. To bright for my ears. And it's plenty loud enough for most of my needs.

 

[EdO.]

Get the 500 combo amp and save for an extension cab

Had that exact setup, 500c + 210 extension cab. Played very few gigs where I even connected the extension cab, just didn't need it. The 500 alone was plenty loud but crank it with the extension cab and it would fill a pretty large room from the stage.

Loved the 500 sound, it's reasonably light and easy to haul around, nice and punchy with the 10's. Went over to the ampless dark side with a HX Stomp and the 500 just sat unused so I regrettably sold it. If I needed an amp again I'd get another one.

 

[DaDo625]

"Buy as much flexibility as you can afford" and that would = Rumble 500... good used ones show up all the time...

 

[Steadfast]

500 alone can handle most gigs. I have two slaves together because I am nuts. My main rig is an acoustic 360. But the fender 500c is really good.

 

[FronTowardEnemy]

Get the 500c.

It can handle anything on its own. Hit that vintage button and eq to taste and you will cut through like a knife.

I’m using one in my current power trio, but have used it with my tribute band of 3 guitars, 4 vocals, drums, and keys. Haven’t needed an extension cab yet.

YMMV

 

[Steadfast]

500c is all u need. I slave two together with an acoustic 360 and bLow out a 15k church.

 

[BossOnBass]

I suggest that you check out the Rumble Stage 800 instead of the 200 or the 500. The stage 800 is way more versatile and is an overall better sounding amp. I get a lot of compliments on the sound from my 800 from my friends who play through 200s and 500s. And honestly, since i got the 800, I don't feel gas for other amps (I used a 300 watt all tube head with a 610 cab b4 the 800.)

 

[SLPimp]

I've done a couple outdoor gigs with the Rumble 200 combo. The guitarist played a 15w Blackstar Artist. The drummer was loud and articulate but not overwhelming. Bear in mind the 200 only puts out about half that without an extension. I'd go 500 for the head room.

Which should I get?

I'm looking to jam with a dummer, but would also like something that has the potential for gigs.

I'm not sure how heads and cabs and all that works because I'm kind of new to the amp world. But if I get an R500 combo amp, will I be covered as far as gigs go, or will I have to get cab extensions? And if I have to get cab extensions, should I just get the R200 and save money for the cabs?

 

[Kukulkan61]

Get the 500, it’s better to have more power then not enough...

 

[bigtone23]

I prefer the 500. More power and you can switch off the horn if you want less zing.

 

[Unmost]

Definitely get the 500. You might not need the extension. I had both, with a crazy loud drummer. When I got tired of hauling both, I tried the combo alone and it was loud enough. When you have the funds, get the additional 2x10. The stack looks nice and a vertical 4x10 is always a good idea.

 

[lbbc]

I'll echo what most have said... choosing between the 2, I'd go with the 500. I bought a 200 years ago and it wasn't enough to gig with IMHO. Now I'm play direct into PA but have an Acoustic 300 watt head into a Carvin 210 cab "just in case".

 

[PJ Bassthumper]

I'll vote for the Rumble 500. I had a 300w Ashdown combo with a 115 and it was fine for stage volume but needed pa support to fill a 200 person venue we played at often. For the difference in price the 500 is a better value.