Hi. New to the forum, been lurking here for a couple weeks, reading and doing research. I need some experienced advice on mid-sized amps to consider for some upcoming gigs.
Here's the deal: I currently have an Eden WT800 paired with a Bergantino HT322. I also have a very old Carvin PB200 (actually around 160w) which is starting to make some significant noise due to aging components.
In 4-6 weeks I need to play some classic rock gigs in small-to-midsized clubs (up to about 150 people). In the larger clubs I will have house PA support, but in the smaller ones it's doubtful. I'll be using a Rick 4003 and/or MusicMan Stingray 4.
I like the sound of the Eden, but at age 57 I don't find it's worth it to cart that 90+ lb. Bergie around except for outdoor gigs. So I'm looking for an amp to use for the gigs I described. Power, weight and price are the variables - I think I need more than 200 watts (depending on how it's delivered), would prefer something light (less than 70 lbs), and probably costing not more than $500.
I've considered the TC Electronic BG500, which seems about ideal except for the weight and breakaway buttons. I've looked into the GK MBE series, but am a little put off by reports that the cabs are possibly built too light (no bracing, etc.). I've looked at the Carvin MB and BR combos - the MB12 and MB15 seem really nice, but perhaps underpowered(?) and the BR's are a little pricey comparatively. Not familiar with the Genz-Benz and Hartke gear, although I know they have a good reputation. Markbass - probably not, at those prices. Another possibility could be the Fender Rumble 350, but I've never been a fan of Fender bass amps (for bass) - but my experience with that was back in the 70s, so things may have changed.
I've also considered just getting a smaller, lighter cab and using the Eden. It's two 400w amps in one, or 800w+ in bridged mode. If I just used one side, 400w could be just about perfect, or bridge it and never turn it up past about 3. Again, the MBE cabs might be too lightly constructed. Not sure what else might be worth considering. A lot of the quality cabs cost around the price of the BG500, so at that point I'd just as soon go with the combo. Not too concerned about speaker config - I love the sound of a well-driven 15", but speaker technology has advanced so much that a good 2x10, 4x10 or 2x12 can do the job at the power levels I think I need.
So, I would appreciate your thoughts on how to direct my research. Am I overthinking this? Combo, cab, or just repair that old Carvin? What would you do?
Here's the deal: I currently have an Eden WT800 paired with a Bergantino HT322. I also have a very old Carvin PB200 (actually around 160w) which is starting to make some significant noise due to aging components.
In 4-6 weeks I need to play some classic rock gigs in small-to-midsized clubs (up to about 150 people). In the larger clubs I will have house PA support, but in the smaller ones it's doubtful. I'll be using a Rick 4003 and/or MusicMan Stingray 4.
I like the sound of the Eden, but at age 57 I don't find it's worth it to cart that 90+ lb. Bergie around except for outdoor gigs. So I'm looking for an amp to use for the gigs I described. Power, weight and price are the variables - I think I need more than 200 watts (depending on how it's delivered), would prefer something light (less than 70 lbs), and probably costing not more than $500.
I've considered the TC Electronic BG500, which seems about ideal except for the weight and breakaway buttons. I've looked into the GK MBE series, but am a little put off by reports that the cabs are possibly built too light (no bracing, etc.). I've looked at the Carvin MB and BR combos - the MB12 and MB15 seem really nice, but perhaps underpowered(?) and the BR's are a little pricey comparatively. Not familiar with the Genz-Benz and Hartke gear, although I know they have a good reputation. Markbass - probably not, at those prices. Another possibility could be the Fender Rumble 350, but I've never been a fan of Fender bass amps (for bass) - but my experience with that was back in the 70s, so things may have changed.
I've also considered just getting a smaller, lighter cab and using the Eden. It's two 400w amps in one, or 800w+ in bridged mode. If I just used one side, 400w could be just about perfect, or bridge it and never turn it up past about 3. Again, the MBE cabs might be too lightly constructed. Not sure what else might be worth considering. A lot of the quality cabs cost around the price of the BG500, so at that point I'd just as soon go with the combo. Not too concerned about speaker config - I love the sound of a well-driven 15", but speaker technology has advanced so much that a good 2x10, 4x10 or 2x12 can do the job at the power levels I think I need.
So, I would appreciate your thoughts on how to direct my research. Am I overthinking this? Combo, cab, or just repair that old Carvin? What would you do?
. Should you decide to go that route, make sure it's a brand new, USA assembled one, the older ones are flimsy.
