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G-K MB150 or something else?

W

wman2

Jan 6, 2011
2
0
#1
Hi guys

I'm in the market for a new amp; I've currently got a tiny Laney RB1 for practice and a Fender Rumble 150 for gigs. I play mainly jazz but a bit of other styles here and there too. I'll be using a Fender Jazz Bass and an Upright Bass with a Fishman Full Circle through it.

The problem is, my Rumble 150 is too big to take to some gigs physically (its power is fine because I don't play massive gigs, mainly small pubs & stages) and my band-leader is intimidated by its size too :( So I'd like a smallish, portable amp that packs a fair amount of power that I can also hook up via DI when necessary. I've found the Gallien-Krueger MB150 seems to have a lot of good reviews and it's been recommended to me by several friends but I was wondering if there's anything else you guys would recommend, just because the G-K is very expensive :hmm:

Any advice very gratefully received - I'm just trying to get a good compromise between power and size.
 
#2
I've owned the MB150 several times and never cared for it. Yeah it's light and easy to move, but it sounds like exactly what it is, a tiny metal box.

Check out the Carvin MB15. It's like a Polytone Mini Brute on steroids.
 
#4
150 watts at 4 ohm load. I've used my MB150E with a bunch of different ext. cabs, it all depends on size and volume needs. This head into an 810 will do crazy things. My favorite is the amp with a Fearless F112. Overall function of this amp is huge. Don't hesitate.
 
#6
The Gk 150 is a standard here on the nyc jazz scene. I think it's great doubling amp and use it myself. It fits through the turnstiles and makes the upright sound and be heard. I have been able to dial in good sounds through it. People seem to love it or hate it.

Also check out markbass 1x12 combo or separates.
Best of luck
 
#7
Best sound I've heard from the 150 and extension was through a Berg 1x12. Berg isn't large but it does weigh a bit. And both might run around $1,500 or so. But - they sound really great together.
I've played a MIA Jazz 4-stg through one and it was fine. Also tried my 94 Warwick active 5-stg and it did not sound fine.
 

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