Is there a lightweight Class D equivalent to the Marshall DBS amps?

[SirTarquin]

(I started a similar thread earlier but thought the title was confusing so I’m reposting with a clearer title)

Lately I’ve been feeling like I’m ready to purcase an amp by choice rather than out of necessity and get something I actually want rather than what’s available. I’ve been interested in the older Marshall DBS system for a minute now since they seem to be quite favorably spoken of on here, have a great tone, and typically go for a very reasonable after market price, plus I just like Marshall tones in general. The one thing stopping me, however, is the weight. They are by no means lightweight. And since I would get one with gigging in mind, I really don’t want to be hauling something that heavy around, more than likely on my own. Which leads me to my question: Would any of the more lightweight Class D amps (Tone Hammer, Little Mark III, Magellan, DG Microtubes, etc.) get the same tone as the DBS, or which of them at least gets the closest?

I’m making weight the main priority here, so lightweight and easily transportable is the most important aspect to me. Tone would be second. After that would be budget, which I’d prefer to spend a little as possible, but I would say there is no budget as this is not an immediate need and I would have time to save up for it. As for power, really as long as it’s gig worthy I don’t have a preference. I was sort of thinking something with 500w and a DI output since I’m not anticipating playing anywhere I would need more power and not be able to plug in via the DI.

Thank you for your help!

 

[SirTarquin]

I don’t suppose it has to close to the DBS specifically as much as the Marshall bass tone in general.

Though I wouldn’t think it would be that hard for someone to make a lightweight Class D that sounded close to the DBS amps. IIRC, the DBS 7200/7400 was a solid state amp with a hybrid tube preamp with a blend knob between the two. I know several Class D amps already do something similar, Hartke, Markbass, and GK are ones I can think of off the top of my head. Markbass even has one with a similar blend knob between the tube and solid state preamp. The question is which one, hybrid or not, gets the closest to that tone?

 

[joel406]

(I started a similar thread earlier but thought the title was confusing so I’m reposting with a clearer title)

Lately I’ve been feeling like I’m ready to purcase an amp by choice rather than out of necessity and get something I actually want rather than what’s available. I’ve been interested in the older Marshall DBS system for a minute now since they seem to be quite favorably spoken of on here, have a great tone, and typically go for a very reasonable after market price, plus I just like Marshall tones in general. The one thing stopping me, however, is the weight. They are by no means lightweight. And since I would get one with gigging in mind, I really don’t want to be hauling something that heavy around, more than likely on my own. Which leads me to my question: Would any of the more lightweight Class D amps (Tone Hammer, Little Mark III, Magellan, DG Microtubes, etc.) get the same tone as the DBS, or which of them at least gets the closest?

I’m making weight the main priority here, so lightweight and easily transportable is the most important aspect to me. Tone would be second. After that would be budget, which I’d prefer to spend a little as possible, but I would say there is no budget as this is not an immediate need and I would have time to save up for it. As for power, really as long as it’s gig worthy I don’t have a preference. I was sort of thinking something with 500w and a DI output since I’m not anticipating playing anywhere I would need more power and not be able to plug in via the DI.

Thank you for your help!

There is a 7400 out there for sale. Google it and you’ll find it quick. I’m fighting the unexplainable urge I had to buy it. When I think of what I already have the gas goes away.

If Marshall amps tickle your fancy I would think Gallien Krueger could be your Benadryl. I’m very VERY happy with my GK. You should check em out.

 

[SirTarquin]

I’ve had access to a MB 212 combo amp which I’ve recently played through pretty regularly. For lack of a better term, it almost sounds too “hi-fi” to me. Almost kinda mid-scoopy with real bright sparkly highs. I’d prefer something more mids/low-mids with just enough highs to be percussive and warmer. Not necessarily tube warmth (although I do like it), but warmer. If the GK you’re using is different and more what I’m looking for, please let me know! Otherwise, I’m going to keep looking. And I’m trying to keep things as light as possible, entire reason I haven’t already bought a DBS 7400 whenever one pops up.

I’m starting to wonder if the tone of that amp is unique enough that nothing really comes close. It’s too bad Marshall seems to have completely stopped making bass amps entirely. Maybe I should look more into Eden amps now that they’re owned by Marshall.