So I have decided it's time to join the beautiful world of the head and cab. I have a GK 4x10 cabinet which I've had for quite a while now but have always used it combined with my peavey combo amp. All I need is an amp head but I wanted some input from the bass community. I know of tubes and solid state and would prefer a tube but they're pricey and my wallet can only hold about $400 so if anyone has some suggestions or tips on what to look for, it would be much appreciated if you shared your knowledge. I'd be playing through it with a Fender Geddy Lee Jazz bass.
I think with 400 USD a tubehead is a bit out of range. For a tubish/old skool sound I would suggest a Ampeg PF500. Great sound (I myself have a PF800, but that's not in your proposed budget). >>but, which GK 410 cab do you have exactly?
Checkout the Kustom KXB500 thread. Been reading lots of good things about them and the tone is supposed to be modern to old school warm and everything in-between. Best of all I think they can be had for around 350 brand new. Plenty of power to drive that GK.
I'm buying a what I'm told is a recently serviced Univox U1061 and 2x12 tomorrow morning for $400. That's a 100w tube bass amp based on a Marshall Superbass within budget. Just gotta keep your eyes open and be patient. The PF500 definitely gets that vibe. I found myself dialing nearly identical tones on a PF500 and SVT at one point.
Univox is new to me. Looks like a great deal! Funny you should mention Marshall, I was wondering about Marshall earlier today. Does Marshall still produce bass heads & cabs?
They make MB SS models and the VBA400 with a matching line of cabs. To the OP: Watch out for Ampeg VT-22, V4, or V4B. They're 100w tube amps that are stellar for bass. Occasionally they get down to $400-$500.
I don't think they have any new bass production. They did buy Eden so that would be the "bass" line now.
I got my Ampeg SVT-3 Pro used for $299. They can be had used for somewhere around $400 pretty frequently.