SWR LA Series

I liked mine. I didn't/don't think that you can get a sound like Ryan Martinies out of it, which, before I knew anything about heads and cabs I did... But it's a really really nice amp... Just try it out, if you like it, buy it...
I think you could get one on ebay for 150-210 with shipping... I'd try to go for the WM12 combo, or the WM15, if you can get the WM15 for like 300, get it!! (I don't really think you can though)...
Anyway, just try it out with your bass.
later-

 

I tried 'em when I was thinking of a small combo. I didn't like them at all, to be honest, and thought they did not live up to the SWR name. For a small combo, I thought the SWR WMs were better, and so were the Ampeg combos--forget the model nos ... B100 and BA115/112?

 

I completely agree. Terrible tone.

brad cook

 

Probably depends on the sound you want. For me, I tried one with my standard mega-low-EQ cranked-up (on both amp & bass). The LA series delivered far too much "farting noise" with that setting.

On the other hand, if you go with a lot of high-end, it may be OK.

I've never sprung for "real" SWR equipment (expensive), but I've had good luck with the Fender Bassman series.

 

I've owned SWR stuff like the WM-10, 350 bass head, and the bass monitor 12 pro wedges.

Pro series: serious volume, high performance and high price

Working man Series: good volume, good performance, mid-price

LA Series: bedroom practice volume, low performance, low price

If I were to buy another combo, right now, today, I'd seriously consider the WORKINGMANS 12 it has very nice tone for the working man series, speaker out, and line out. I like the tone of the 12 better than the WM-15! It MIGHT be loud enough for a considerate drummer. my WM-10 could not compete, but it is VERY strong for a little 10. looking back it was not the greatest tone, but now I'm spoiled with my RBI. with my WM-10 I bought an extention speaker and that handled drums great with 2 10's.

Workingman 12, Workingman 12, Workingman 12, Workingman 12, Workingman 12, Workingman 12, Workingman 12, Workingman 12, Workingman 12, Workingman 12, Workingman 12, Workingman 12,

 

Regarding the WM12 ... even with an extension speaker (2x10), it wasn't loud enough (for me) in a band with a drummer and guitars.

 

o.k. I should have said "considerate band". considerate of the WM-12 volume limitations and considerate of each others ears. There is no real value to playing above minimum acoustic drummer volume, except for vibe or stupidity!

I hope most musicians as they get older they get wiser about volume. when I first came to TB I never heard so many people talk about downsizing rigs or using earplugs! Is it a sign of maturity?

Again, I belive the WM-12 is a great contender in the small combo market. remeber this thread started with mcbassdude considering a LA-15. I think the wm-12 is more able to handle band situation and be expandable in the future.

 

snag a used Ashdown Mag or Electric Blue combo off eBay!

I got my Mag 12-200 for $300 last fall. Great little combo... that holds it's own so long as the drummer isn't going thru the PA, but it's got a nice sounding DI to send to the PA if the drummer insists.