How much louder?

[Jaycat]

Hey gang. I am currently using a Promethean amp, which doesn't really put out a ton of volume. It's this one.

I'm looking to upgrade volume-wise, and am wondering how much of an improvement a Fender Rumble 40W might be? For instance, this one.

Any other suggestions in that price range and weight would also be most welcome. Thanks!

 

[DrMole]

Lots of folks more knowing than I will be able to more clearly articulate the whys and wherefores but:
The increase from 20 to 40 watts will give you some noticeable increase in volume and the 10" speaker will also move a bit more air(sound) than the 8" Ibanez.
A 100 watt amp with a 12" speaker would likely be significantly louder and be able to produce lower frequencies before "farting out".
I had a 40watt, 12" Ibanez combo back in the eighties/nineties but it was not enough to really compete as a bass amp with a drumset and 50watt Marshall 4x12, never mind 4 part amplified vocals, oh and keyboards.

If you are just practicing at home or in a small group the Rumble 40 might be a worthwhile upgrade. Personally would jump up to a 100 watt 12 , as above.
I have not experienced too many newer smaller combos but there are literally dozens to choose from at all price and weight points.
I am using a 500w 2x12 combo so my current experience is probably not helpful.

Good luck. Have fun searching for something that will make you happy and sound great!

 

[SJan3]

I have to agree w/ Dr. Mole.
You'll see a bit more volume but if you're looking for a gigging amp, the Rumble 40 may not cut it unless you're doing a semi acoustic type gig. If money is an issue, I'd definitely save my pennies for at least the 100watt 1x12" combo, and even that may struggle if things get loud.
My 2 cents

 

[Jaycat]

Just to clarify: This is mostly for playing in an acoustic bluegrass jam, with somewhere between 4 and 8 other players. Currently, the Promethean amp works ok if I play my Ibanez TMB-100 with active electronics. However I would prefer to play my TMB-30 with passive electronics, and I don't think the Promethean amp will cut it (when and if we get back to playing again).

 

[SJan3]

Just to clarify: This is mostly for playing in an acoustic bluegrass jam, with somewhere between 4 and 8 other players. Currently, the Promethean amp works ok if I play my Ibanez TMB-100 with active electronics. However I would prefer to play my TMB-30 with passive electronics, and I don't think the Promethean amp will cut it (when and if we get back to playing again).

Yea, so the Rumble 40 will help your cause but I'd appreciate the extra headroom in certain playing situations. You can always buy the 40 watt 1x10" unit and if it doesn't satisfy your needs, return it for the next step up.

 

[CallMeAl]

I used a v1 Ampeg BA 108 (25w, 8”) with a passive P bass in that exact situation your describing, and it didn’t even flinch. Plenty of volume. So I’d test out the Promethian with the Passive bass before you make a purchase.

If you feel you do need an upgrade, the Rumble 40 should fit the bill nicely- if that’s the only thing you’re doing with it. If you want an amp that’ll hang with a drummer, should the need arise- I’d get the Rumble 100

 

[Ekajimmy]

Lots of folks more knowing than I will be able to more clearly articulate the whys and wherefores but:
The increase from 20 to 40 watts will give you some noticeable increase in volume and the 10" speaker will also move a bit more air(sound) than the 8" Ibanez.
A 100 watt amp with a 12" speaker would likely be significantly louder and be able to produce lower frequencies before "farting out".
I had a 40watt, 12" Ibanez combo back in the eighties/nineties but it was not enough to really compete as a bass amp with a drumset and 50watt Marshall 4x12, never mind 4 part amplified vocals, oh and keyboards.

If you are just practicing at home or in a small group the Rumble 40 might be a worthwhile upgrade. Personally would jump up to a 100 watt 12 , as above.
I have not experienced too many newer smaller combos but there are literally dozens to choose from at all price and weight points.
I am using a 500w 2x12 combo so my current experience is probably not helpful.

Good luck. Have fun searching for something that will make you happy and sound great!

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