Small combo amp ideas

Markbass LM 1x12 combo

http://bass-guitars.musiciansfriend.com/product/Markbass-CMD-121H-300500W-1x12-Bass-Combo?sku=481795

For warmth when you want it, clean when you want it, and dirt when you want it....you really can't beat the Little Mark. The LM is really versatile, lightweight and powerful as well. You can have it turned down or cranked up, either way it sounds great.

 

Here are a few TB threads you might want to check out:
Micro-rigs of doom
Opinions/experiences-great small combo amps
30 light weight cabs,amps, combos
1 Buying a combo
2
The ultimate custom built combo?

 

I've used my MarkBass CMD 112 in all kinds of combination jobs for over a year now, from practice sessions to smaller and medium sized gigs, with 2x10 cab or without, DI to PA and so forth. It's the Macintosh of bass amps.

 

Get something with at least a 112, a 210 or a 115. 112's about minimum. Used to own the Markbass 112 combo and it was really nice, but they're not the cheapest. If you want something inexpensive, I'd get an Ampeg BA115 or maybe an SWR LA12 or LA15. But if you can swing it, the Markbass and the Shuttle combos are definitely a step above.

 

+1 for the markbass cmd121p. It's the best sounding amp that I've used for both upright and electric. Plus it so friggin' portable.

 

If you are looking for something a little less expensive I say SWR LA12, or a ampeg ba112/ba115.

 

I've played through a BA115.. That would be perfect for acoustic gigs, you wouldn't have to worry about being too loud, trust me...

 

Had a BA115HP. 80lbs. And nearly square. Portable? Well yes, in the same way a house trailer is. It can be done, but who wants to?

Have a the Markbass CMD121 now. Bass and amp in a Miata. Gig bag on my back, one amp in one hand, other hand for the door. More volume than the Ampeg. Took me a while to find the tone I wanted, but it was in there. Life is good.

Cheap? Not really, but worth it.

 

Before spending more, try the Roland Cube 100. It should have more than enough volume, it sounds great, and it has a DI. I have a nice G-K 1x12 rig that isn't too burdensome, but for backing an acoustic duo, I'd definitely grab the Roland.

Edit: I'll add that your SWR idea is fine, but I'd stay away from the LA series. If you can, step up to the WorkingPro 1x12 combo. It sounds great and strikes me as a solid value. The G-K Backline 112 is good too. I think the Roland Cube is better, but it also costs more.

 

+1 for the Genz Benz Shuttle-
I played 1 the other day and was quite impressed.


http://bass-guitars.musiciansfriend...0-Watt-Lightweight-Bass-1x10-Combo?sku=482108

 

Ampeg B100R, to my ears, the best sounding combo out there.

 

If power is not a concern the Ampeg BA112 is a good sounding combo also, sounds better than the BA115 to me, and no BA115 hiss.

 

I've had the B100R and the BA115 and they both sound great, and technically are portable, but heavy.

I bought a MarkBass MiniMark combo last year (with 2X6) and it sounds fantastic. Best of all it weighs less than 30lbs and is the size of a computer terminal.

 

Mark Bass III, and whatever small cab you add works for me.