Looking to buy my first amp head

Ampeg PF350/500

 

GK MB 500. $300-400 used USD. Sounds just like that, reliable, loud.

 

I'll second what TomB recommended with a used G.K.MB500 series head.

I've somehow accumulated four class D heads in the last couple of years.
The four are, (what "was" my main gigging amp) a Mesa 800+, a G.K. MB2-500, a GK. MB500, and recently, a used G.K. MB Fusion 800.
(FYI: I always run a old SansAmp BDDI in front of whatever head I'm gigging. The SansAmp and head are set as clean as I can figure how to set them.)

The G.K.MB2-500 and the G.K.MB500 have become my go to gigging amps!
Clean, punchy, dependable, LOUD, with the feeling of a fast transient, and above all, fast to dial in in a working band.

The Subway 800+ has become the backup, and since I've only had the MB Fusion 800 for such a short time my ears haven't decided where it'll land in the lineup yet.

I bought the MB2-500 and the MB500 locally to me.
The MB2-500 was in mint condition with a carry bag.....$250.00.
I liked the MB2 enough that when a mint condition MB500 popped up locally for $300.00 I grabbed it also!

 

I don’t think you can go wrong with an MB500, hopefully you’ll be able to spot a good used one soon.

I was lucky to get a great deal on a used one a few years ago. I really love the EQing on it. And it easily fits in the front pouch of my gigbag.

 

For something still in production I would look into the Orange Little Bass Thing. Check out some demos! If you like more grit (who doesn’t?) and can live without a compressor I highly suggest the Orange Terror Bass. Just an amazing and complex tone from a simple amp.

Also it sounds like you’re on the right track to that tone with the P and flats!

 

The MB500 has a built in compressor?

How about the Peavey MiniMega?

 

Maybe you need a Jazz Bass?