Double Bass Newcommer needs help

[Viuff]

Hi there

I am kinda new in the whole amplifying a double bass business.
Therefore I would like to know what amp i should choose. I have been looking at the TC Electronic BG500, because I think the BG500 sounds awesome, but the thing is that the amp needs to work both with my normal bass and with my double bass, but haven't seen anyone playing double bass on it. So the thing is, is it doable?
I’m not looking for the perfect setup, but a nice warm tone which you can actually hear (not “muddy”), with my double bass would be cool. I play jazz on my DB.
(I’m not a rich guy so the price on the BG500 is ideal for me)

Regards Viuff

 

[powerbass]

There are many threads about this subject. When it comes to amplifying an UB strings, PU, preamp choice, type of bass, playing style and amp all make a difference IMHO. I have a Genz Benz Shuttle 3.0-8t w/10" ext cab. This rig is very light weight, portable, versatile - it is surprisingly loud for EB and has nice EQ features. I can carry my bass, amp and gear all in one trip. You can pick up the Shuttle 3.0 used

 

[GrowlerBox]

Most players will prefer relatively hi-fi amplifiers/speakers for amplifying double bass -- which means brands such as (in no particular order) Acoustic Image, Phil Jones, Euphonic Audio, some of the Genz Benz range, etc. I think if you're using microphones (including microphone-type pickups), this is pretty uncontroversial. For many combinations of particular bass with particular piezo-pickup, it could be argued that a more "coloured" amplifier can improve a harsh, upper-middy, "clanky" tone.

I have a TCE RH450, and I would say that it's very useable, if not exactly ideal with my setup and my goals -- and this is probably key. Some genres, playing styles and basses will sound great with the "old-school" vibe of the TCE range, others not so much.

 

[fdeck]

Normal bass?

 

[John Crosley]

Before anyone else gets on you about it, fill out your profile. Do you play bass guitar? if so, what are you using? I happen to use the same combo amp for the DB as I do the BG. what kind of pickup/mic are you planning on etc.

 

[bssist]

Normal bass?

"Normal" is a very relative term. I think he means his guitar "bass".

 

[fdeck]

"Normal" is a very relative term. I think he means his guitar "bass".

That's cool. I was just amused by the irony. But I should reassure the OP that he is definitely welcome here!

 

[Viuff]

Hehe, I’m sorry for the confusion. When I say “normal” bass I mean electric bass (Upright basses aren’t that common in my area)
The upright bass I use is a Invalid Link Removed but i haven’t gotten it adjusted yet. My teacher knows a jazz guy who will adjust it and put new strings on, preferably steel strings. Right now I’m playing with the ones that it came with it.
There isn’t any pickup installed yet. Does the choice of pickup affect the choice of amp that much?

Thanks for your understanding!