SWR SM400S vs Hartke LH500

[nofrontin]

So I'm thinking about selling my SWR400S on Craigslist (I currently run it through a huge SWR Triad) and picking up a new Hartke LH500 with the money from the deal. I like the SWR SM400S but the things just too big for me to carry around so I was thinking of getting the Hartke LH500 and eventually a HyDrive 112.

I wanted to know what all you TB brothers think of this move?
If it helps the guy's willing to throw in a Fender Pro 2x10 Bass Cab on top of the cash.

I like the SWR tone but the EQ is pretty complicated to figure out and it's heavy, not too familiar with the Hartke not many stores by me has the LH500 in stock.

 

[kbakerde]

how much does the SWR weigh in at? The LH500 is a 25 lb head, so it isn't a micro. I liked the LH a lot, had a 500 and a 1000. It has a very clean Bassman tone, and uses a Fender Tone Stack which would benefit from reading up on it before using it.

 

[BrentSimons]

I would think you would have more flexibility with SWR? As the previous poster said the Hartke LH's are not lightweights. I've heard the LH's and they sound great but I also like SWR. Maybe yuo've answered your own question though. if weight is an issue sell the Triad and pick up a couple of Hartke Hydrive 12's. I 've used those and they sound very good indeed. You could get just one and switch it to 4 ohm while you're saving for the other . With the SWR I would start with everything flat, no aural enhancer, gain light flashing on just your hardest notes and eq from there.
Hope this helps,
Brent

 

[Flatbass]

I agree with the previous replies. And, the LH500 is an entirely different amp, I'd strongly suggest playing one before you decide.

For now, I'd say: stick with the SWR. Switching to Hartke won't solve your problems. The eq is simpler but also gives you less options. And the eq on the SWR isn't impossible to figure out either... Is their something you'd like the eq to do, but can't figure out how? Maybe we, the Talkbass'ers, can help.

 

[will33]

???

I have that SWR. It's a 2-rackspace, fairly lightweight amp, maybe 25-30lbs. while mounted in a sturdy headcase.

What makes you think another 2-rackspace leadsled will be any less?

These amps are no more difficult to transport than a briefcase, old men do that every day.

 

[Bill Staudt]

Don't listen to these guys. You should definitely sell me your SM-400.

 

[grogers311]

Don't listen to these guys. You should definitely sell me your SM-400.

No, you would hate it... Let me take it for safe keeping!

 

[Bill Staudt]

I just want it so I can properly dispose of it. I'll give the OP $100 for that old junky SWR.

 

[nofrontin]

Hm, maybe I'll just keep it and actually read the manual online and buy a Hartke HyDrive 112. Thank you my fellow TBers for opening my eyes to the answer I never realized that these amps were that sought after and highly thought of I kinda wonder why I've seen some of these sell for so cheap when they use to be more than a grand brand new. I just bought it from a friend who was moving with the SWR Triad and a head case for a killer price but the Triad was just too big to bring around and it was my only cab so I was thinking about just starting fresh (I don't know why I didn't think of just buying a new cab).

I just want it so I can properly dispose of it. I'll give the OP $100 for that old junky SWR.

And to punkrocko, I'm not a supporting member so I wouldn't be able to do that anyway cause I wouldn't want to break the rules

 

[grogers311]

I just want it so I can properly dispose of it. I'll give the OP $100 for that old junky SWR.

Yeah, I hate it when my bass sounds amazing too lol

 

[JIO]

I bought this travel case years ago - can't recall the brand. (most likely a Gator) It's a well made, good designed, heavy-duty canvas/wood box w/soft padding and very protective. I cut full openings for the air-vents to make it SM400S specific. (it was an "amp" case, not for SWR specifically) Plenty of space in the back for the cords and rubber feet to set it down. I don't know it's total weight - not light, but w/double padded handles and a shoulder strap it's portable and I travel w/it regularly. The amp is bolted into the bag, so it's (un)zip-zip-zip and you're ready to gig.

 

[AdamR]

I had a SM500 and hated it. I love my Hartke but its a Kilo, Not a LH.