Double Bass Need amp advice

[Nicadore]

Hi all,



I play both upright and electric and I need some recommendations on the proper amp. I've been using a GK combo amp, which has worked great for smaller venues, but I'm starting to play larger places. Anyway, I got a great deal on a used SWR Megoliath 8X10 cabinet, but I need a head for it. I'm not quite sure about all the intricacies of 4ohms, 8ohms, etc. The cabinet can go stereo or mono. I need some advice on what I would need and any recommendations that don't break the bank.



Something that would provide a great acoustic sound is most important.



Thanks,
Michael

 

[neddyrow]

as they say on the BG side.... get out the popcorn!

 

[Remyd]

Just so happens that both of my teachers use Acoustic Image Clarus amps (cost about $1k for the head, plus $$$ for the cab). Having played with one, I can see why. A good preamp section, and a HPF, and a para EQ with sweeps, and a XLR channel with phantom power, and a DI, and whatever else is really pretty impressive. I want (but will never buy) one.

I have no idea how they'd work on the BG side though I suspect they'd be just fine. I don't recall ever seeing a double bassist play through an 810, but I don't see any reason why it wouldn't work with proper EQ/feedback control. Any acoustic gig that needs that level of volume will certainly have some sound reinforcement mitigating the need for the fridge anyhow.

FWIW, I currently use a GK Backline 250 to a Crate 115 cab with a Zoom B1on as my pre (<$250 for all of the above) for both BG and DB and get compliments on my amplified tone all the time in both acoustic and rock/blues settings. Nowhere near the volume of the above, but it's loud enough to carry a small bar, and that's what I actually need.

 

[Nicadore]

Thanks for your help

 

[Jon Mush]

I don't have a tonne of experience with lots of gear, but the Tecamp Puma has definitely given me a much better upright sound when playing into 'house' cabinets at gigs. I've tried going through some Backline BG amps and it never quite sounds as natural as with the Puma. The EQ section has great control in all the right places it seems. I've never played a BG through my gear, but the Puma seems to get some serious love over on the other side.

Also, something to keep in mind is that turning your cab into stereo mode when playing upright should shut off the bottom four drivers if you're running a single channel. This could give you a leg up toward hearing yourself better and evading some feedback as well. Unless, of course, having your pant legs blowing in the wind was the idea behind the purchase in the first place!

 

[B String]

The new Acoustic Image Clarus S4+ head might be just what you're looking for. Lots of power, flexible eq voiced well for upright and electric bass. Great di section. High pass filter and phase reverse for feedback control. Plus, you can mute one channel if you don't have a volume knob on your upright bass. You can see the Clarus series4 plus at Gollihurmusic.com or on the Acoustic Image web site. You might get lucky and find a used Focus 2 rlll.