Small bass moniter/amp for "acoustic" shows?

[Gremson]

I know, I know. use the search function, do your own homework, yadda-yadda... But I've been drinking mint juleps and I like answers to my own questions.

I've been getting a lot of "acoustic" gigs with my band lately. By acoustic, I mean the frontman still plays his nylon string acoustic like he always does, I play my Bass VI like I always do, but the drummer plays a djembe and shakers instead of a full kit.
I don't like to bring my full ACC rig to these types of gigs because it's not necessary for something like that. I've been just going from my pedalboard out to the PA. Problem is, it doesn't always sound that great. Sometimes certain effects on my board sound way out of whack, and sometimes the monitors provided at these gigs just can't handle a bass and I end up playing by braille.
What do you guys recommend for a super cheap option to amplify myself a bit before I get to the PA? I do most of my tone shaping in my pedalboard, I just need a solid platform to get it to FOH. Something cheap, and lightweight.
I was first considering the Ampeg Ba-110. Looks simple enough... But too simple. No XLR out to FOH
The Acoustic AB50 looks awesome with dual purpose inputs. But again no XLR out.

You guys got any ideas?

 

[T-Bird]

Hi.

If used is an option the SWR WM10 IMO/IMLE is hard to beat.
If upgraded with DL II, pretty much impossible to beat.

I've used the older FBT Jolly-A active monitor with moderate success as well, but it is rather limited due to its size.
Can be mic-stand-mounted though.

Regards
Sam

 

[Jeff Bonny]

A GK MB200 and a 1x10 or 1x12 cab.

Or maybe a decent DI or preamp/DI is what you really need. I've played through tiny PAs with no monitors and just a JDI or Sadowsky preamp/DI with no problems. You just gotta get used to hearing yourself out of speakers in front of you rather than behind you. Lots of used preamp/DIs for sale in the TB classifieds.

 

[Interceptor]

I've had great results on the sort of gigs the OP describes with a GK MB500 into an Ampeg SVT210AV. I've also used an Epifani 110 with the MB500 and liked that too. One other cabinet that might fill the bill is a Bag End 12.

 

[sowilson]

I use to use a GK 200MB for gigs like that, the SWR is also a great choice. Not sure what I would go with if I was looking for new; maybe Acoustic Image, Phil Jones, Monique w/Fearfull, GK

 

[birminghambass]

I just use a powered stage monitor for these type gigs.

 

[Dave W]

GK MB112

 

[Linnin]

Fender Rumble 100 combo would be perfect.

 

[tjh]

I have used a Peavey Minx in the past, but again no XLR out ... the last I did like that I used a MB200 and one 210AV before the board ... the head goes with me wherever I go anyway, and the simple and light little 210 stands a bit taller than most combo's with a very small 1 sq ft footprint ...

 

[will33]

This little 110 from TB'er "basscooker" sure sounds bigger than it is. You could easily get told to turn down in a coffeehouse.

Don't know that it's available yet though, this is a prototype.


Also honorable mention to the Peavey Minx.

 

[CL400Peavey]

This little 110 from TB'er "basscooker" sure sounds bigger than it is. You could easily get told to turn down in a coffeehouse.


View attachment 449577

Don't know that it's available yet though, this is a prototype.


Also honorable mention to the Peavey Minx.

The Chopshop 110 would be a great cab for something like this. Has enough thump to make you happy, light enough for your back, and won't hurt your wallet too bad either.

 

[Wooly John]

Ampeg BA-115 has XLR line out - 100 watts - you might be able to pick one up on a clearance sale as Ampeg has a new 150 watt model and the 100 watt models are being cleared out -

 

[1954bassman]

I used a Fender Bassman 25 for years with great success. I bought mine in a pawn shop for $75

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[lokikallas]

PF-350 svt210av

 

[N. Kentucky Bass]

The ultimate combination for coffee shop gigs: Greenboy Audio Crazy8 and a TecAmp Puma 900. Wonderful full range sound that's especially perfect for acoustic bass. Volume potential of a standard 10" cab. Weight: 13lbs for the cab, 2.2 lbs for the amp.

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[Dave W]

^ super cheap

 

[N. Kentucky Bass]

^ super cheap

There are three common criteria for a bass rig:

1. Good
2. Loud
3. Cheap

Rule of thumb: you can always have any two of the three, but never all three at once!

 

[Goteky45]

I usually use an ampeg BA108 for those acoustic gigs and use an stompbox preamp (Eden WTDI) on the fx loop. the preamp has the DI XLR out

 

[Orangeclawhammr]

Fender Rumble 100 combo would be perfect.

And if that's too big/expensive, there's always the Rumble 40. I have one and love it. I've filled a coffee house with it. Both of these amps have an XLR.

 

[chuck norriss]

There are three common criteria for a bass rig:

1. Good
2. Loud
3. Cheap

Rule of thumb: you can always have any two of the three, but never all three at once!

Like te good cheap fast rule. Choose 2 only.