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Looking for a smaller amp.

J

JustOpenYourMind

Dec 11, 2001
1,141
4
41
Québec city ,Canada
#1
Hi,

I'm currently own an SVT-CL paired with an SVT610HLF wich I am trying to sell (not here, rules, rules, rules:D)

Let's just say that this rig was justified 3 years ago when I was hevily into the punk rock scene, doing big shows, touring in a van and all that fun stuff...

So now I'm 24, completely delusioned about lol ''Making it'' I'm just looking to create music with my friends, if we end up having a quality product to present, we'll do shows.

End of the story

I'm looking for suggestion about a smaller rig.

It doesn't need to be one of those ultra light heads, as weight doesn't bother me much, I need something that can be carried by one person, that will sound good, that can be loud if I need it to be.

Ok now about my definition of sounding good :p

I like tubes, I like a tone that can be fat and warm to grindy and overdriven if I need it to,

Crystal clear treble is not really what I am after, as I am not a slapper, I prefer vintage tones and I play Fender Precision basses.

So far What I thought about:

Mesa Walkbout scout, Hybrid, sounds good is small and yet it has 300 watts and can be plenty lound, I've seen a guy do a show with one once and almost felt stupid because that thing sounded almost as good as my svt and was loud enough to gig without Pa support.

Ampeg B-15: I think it is a 100w tube combo, that is switchable to 60w, I know it's a classic but it seems pretty hard to come by since it,s discountinued.

Vintage accoustic gear:

I played through and old accoustic combo and it sounded very good and could distort (almost too easily) very well.

Any other ideas?

I forgot to mention that I dont play loud rock anymore, I'm more into indie rock and stuff like broken social scene and Mogwaï, (ambiant stuff)

My budget is about 1500$ (US)

Thanks everyone for your replies.

Martin
 
#2
There are a lot of good threads on smaller rigs.

I like the Genz Benz ShuttleMAX head series with a tube preamp and a solid state preamp that can be blended. One you should definately hear before you decide. I was looking into some very different equipment and just happened to stumble across one and loved it.
 
#3
Thanks for your insight,

I forgot to mention that of course, I'm going to my local shops and try out as much gear as I can,

I'm just looking for suggestion of amps that I should check out, to plan wich shops I'm going to visit.

Info on what people with simmilar tastes in tone chose would also be appreciated.

Again thanks
 
#4
Have you played the Ashdown ABM EVOs?

http://www.ashdownmusic.com/bass/section.asp?section=abm

Blendable tube preamp, onboard compressor, I've found the sound to be very adjustable. From vintage to modern. You can go from flat to fluffy at the drop of a hat (or the click of a footswitch).

They make a 1x15 or a 2x10 combo or you could just couple the head with the small cab of your choice. It'll definitely cover any power needs that might arise as well as give you some tonal flexibility.

They ain't cheap, but they're within your range.
 
#6
I'm happy with my Shuttle 6.0 and NeoX 212T. Any way around I'd recommend a 2x12 with Neo's and kick back wheels. They make for a very nice easy load in. I'd recommend something rack-width rather than 4x10 width. Much easier with doorways.

The Shuttle has been doing fine by me too, but others will chime in with their own favorite heads and I'm not going to nay-say them.

KO
 
#7
Hi! I have just bought a Carlsbro Viper oldie from Oxfam here in Berkshire UK. It has a single 15" bass speaker and an 11 band eq. The tonal range is extensive and although not lightweight, one young person should be able to carry it from vehicle to stage.
Award Session has a slightly larger Bass combo I have seen 2nd hand in a music store last year. They are in Basingstoke. I had been given a Sessionette guitar combo a few years back what an incredible sound!!!! It was kaput so Mr' Ward fixed it for me personally + a few notes ( pound).
Vox are available but expensive. Laney do something too. Plenty of choice. Trace Elliot and look on Ebay for those bargain value for money things.
 

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