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Noob Needs Advice

Ok. So, I need an amp. I know very little about amps. I don't need anything elaborate. I need something that will let me play with a drummer in a practice setting and also at home. In live settings I'll be plugging into a board.

I'm playing a Mustang with Flat's and looking more for a traditional P Bass sound. Playing more Motown, Jazz, Reggae, etc. than anything else. I don't need (or want) an overdriven modern sound.

Recommendations?

Thanks,
Chad
 
Well, I'm willing to save up. Probably not much more than $600. $800 tops. If I can get roughly the same quality for less...even better!

I'll definitely check out Craigslist. But, again, I know so little about amps that I wouldn't really know what to buy. So, the brand and model recommendations are great.

Chad

Were it me, for $600 I'd be looking for a Hartke HA3500. The combo version would be ok but a head and cab would be better.
For $800 I'd be looking at a used Ampeg PF500 and cab, or a GK700rbII and cab.

You might prefer a combo, but I always tend to recommend separates since you never know how loud your next band is going to be.
 
Ya, definitely check out some of the Portaflex Ampeg stuff. A PF500 and one of the smaller PF cabs clocks in at $800 (you can wait for a sale and do better, too), and that should get you pretty much where you want to go IMHO.
 
I'll definitely check out Craigslist. But, again, I know so little about amps that I wouldn't really know what to buy.
Chad
I suggest you post in this thread about whatever you find on CL (post the link too) and let the more experienced TBrs guide you. Buying used will probably save you 1/2 your money.
 
Just checked out the Baltimore Craigslist. There are several used in your area. Peavey TKO, Ampeg 1-12 combo, etc. Any of those would work fine.

I had one of their combos - I think the BA-112 - and it made a nice tone, but just for me. Its volume was, well, shall we say "modest"? Even noodling around with one or two other guys, it just didn't make a lot of sound for me.

On the other hand, I have an older Genz-Benz M-Line 1x12 combo that's been wonderful as a quiet practice amp at home or for practicing with the gang. A combo can be terrific, but if you need it for band practice, make sure it can put a bit of your sound into the basement (or wherever you practice).

I agree with the idea of a used GK 400rb or a Hartke along with a cab that will fit in the car. Well within your budget either way.
 
GK Backline 210 Bass Amp 300 Watts - $250 (Lititz, PA)

The Gallien-Krueger Backline 210 Combo Amp puts out 300W through 2 - 10" internal speakers. Features active 4-band EQ, footswitchable overdrive, adjustable contour, Boost valve effect, effects loop, tuner out, XLR out with ground and pre/post switch. Tilt-back design.
Location: Lititz, PA
it's NOT ok to contact this poster with services or other commercial interests
Posting ID: 3958617818 Posted: 2013-07-25, 11:12AM EDT email to a friend

I don't think that's too far from your area. You could probably score this for under $200.
 
And this kid has a decent head, so what about the cab. You could probably score the head for $100.

Hey what's up everyone. My name is Terence Bright, and I play in a local band from the area. I have a spare bass head and cabinet for sale that I use in my room for practice, because I need the funds for important band dues. The head is a 240W(500W at full power) 400RB-III Gallien-Krueger, while the cabinet I have no clue of as it was given to me from a friend. It is labeled in the back as a 240W cab, and it does work and sound good, minus a busted 4th speaker that's easily replaceable. I currently do not have my equipment at my house to test for proof, but you are more than welcome to bring a couple of cables and your bass if you want to try it out. I need this thing gone asap. I am asking for $160 for the whole thing, but the price is negotiable, just no low-balling. Pictures are included. Contact me either by email at xabsynthex(at)gmail(dot)com or by phone at (FourFourThree)-(NineOneSeven)-(TwoSevenZeroTwo). Hope to hear from someone soon!

The item number is: 3910178950
 
Check Craigslist, I've seen some decent items matching your criteria right around the Harford county, Baltimore county are. Well under $300 and if you go to your max amount some really decent stuff.