The Combo Club

[iagtrplyr]

Thank you so much for your detailed review and advice. It's somewhat strange to me though that I'm having a hard time finding negative reviews. The overwhelming majority view is positive - both in reviews on major music websites and youtube videos. But I also value advice from the coolest club on Talkbass!

My goal is a small, portable amp for practice only purposes. I have no expectation that 5 watts through 4 mini speakers is going to be anywhere near robust and full bodied. The amp models and effects are just "fun fluff" to me, however the built in rhythm section is pretty cool and would be helpful to me in practice situations. I am considering the Blackstar fly system too (both units) as it would meet my desire for portability. I've read of problems with the battery on the pignoses, but may consider that as well.

Your suggestion on the Rumble Studio 40 has crossed my mind as well, but seems overkill for my wants and definitely not as portable. When I play with the band, I'm straight jacked in my 500c and get all I need through the EQ and voicings on the amp and of course technique.

Here's an interesting comparison of the Roland base cube vs PJB double 4 vs Markbass minimark vs AER amp one. Yea, the Roland is "thinner" than the other amps, but considering 5 watts vs 75/80 and larger speakers, it fares pretty well in this comparison...



Again, thanks so much for your valued input! I'll pull the trigger at some point (on something) and give you guys my review/thoughts.

Good morning! b, you are the consummate gentleman! Here I pooped all over your “I’m thinking about a new amp” parade and yet you still offer a super-nice compliment. ‘Dog, write me up for a violation and use Code OU812 as your reason; knocking a combo amp they a kind vas’s player wanted to buy.

I apologize for being so negative about the Roland (and no, swink, it’s not Ronald!). I just don’t want you to waste hard-earned cash on something you may regret, that’s all. I have to take care of my peoples, ya know? (Code: SOS)

No negatives here, but I wanna respond to your post. Agreed, there are many positive comments on the Micro Cube, though if you read enough you’ll find some drinkers. Read those too because they can be insightful.

A major complaint is if just isn’t loud enough. Players had trouble playing along with music without having to fight their sound source. So unless you’re using it solely to noodle with the rhythm box, you’ll have to keep the volume low.

The Fender I was talking about wasn't the Studio 40 but the LT25, a 25-watt, 8” combo with a nice set of features. You’re looking at $220 (compared to the $300+ price tag for the Roland), but doesn't offer the battery-power. If that’s a dealbreaker then the Fender won’t work. But if you’ll be in the house playing mostly I don’t think it’ll be a contest. Use the money saved to buy a long extension cord so you can sit out in the summer porch!

I know the Pignose has had battery troubles and that might scare me off too, and I’ve read where the B’star Fly is either loved or hated. Buy the two-piece rig if you’re gonna go that route.

Now, if I could offer you the ULTIMATE option and the price wasn’t such a big deal it would be the PJB Double Four! You’ll need to save more $, but it’ll be oh so worth it. Eight pounds, sonically incredible, will last you a lifetime, and yes, pick up a recommended computer battery and you’ll have all the portability you’ll need. This combo can handle a low B note and it has half of the speakers of the Roland! Look used or discounted and add the battery...good to go! Oh yeah, I use free website with a metronome and four different drum beats. Do you really need the Bossa Nova?

I know, another long one. I’ll close with a piece of advice. You buy whatever you want and enjoy it, no batter what’s said here. If your heart is set, then go for it. Try to play one if you can, but if you can’t, open the boxes carefully and don’t throw anything out until you’re certain it’s a keeper. And after that, just love it.

Let us know what you decide, b, and thanks for the respect. It’s mutual.

 

[roccobass]

That is so cool, roccobass. Probably a question you get all the time, but how’s the bass response. I’m so used to a traditional cabinet, I have no idea what the bottom end on these is. In comparison to other cabs you’ve either owned or played, how does the AI rate? Are you satisfied with what you hear?

For the most part, very satisfied with the Upshot combo! Yes, when I purchased it from Gollihur early last year, I sprung for the whole package. (Which included Amp,cab,connecting plate,cord and backpack). You can buy everything separately if you prefer. Gollihur is very helpful too!

Pros: This is a combo which is most useful in small to medium locations and no loud drummer. The cab is a single 10”. (I’m pushing 350w x 8ohms..you can go to 650 with another 8 ohm cab). It does have a good bass response. Strong mids too. It’s so small and convenient. You can place on the floor, chair, coffee table,etc. My favorite is directly below or just by my ear. You just pack it up and go. The cab itself is a great extension to another rig too or if you just need a “monitor” by your ear. The thing has a handle so you hang it if you wanted too.

Cons: It is ONLY one 10”. (8ohms)By itself. This is NOT meant for loud situations. The Clarus amp has some headroom so I find it best for lower practices and small/medium gigs on both EB and DB. Loud situations or loud drummers will wash it out and you will overdrive it. You can add a 8ohm extension speaker to bring the Clarus amp up to its full 650 watts which will help. I advise no gigs that are Motörhead or Black Sabbath inclined. The connecting plate could have a little bit more thought out. Takes a couple of minutes. That’s really my only beef.

Comparisons: Im a bit light on that. I only had two other combos at the the time. My AI Corus R (My main combo)and my Markbass Minimark. I like them all. The all have their strengths. The Minimark is the bassiest,the Corus R, the most beefiest. Why did I get the Upshot? It is the most flexible and portable for me. I can run the cab with the other combos too. I did listen to the AI Doubleshot by itself once, but I prefer the Upshot sound. I thought the Double didn’t have enough punch. The Upshot has great mids too. I Just like it a lot too. Here’s the link to Gollihur if you wanted to read more. [Invalid or Expired Link Removed]

 

[iagtrplyr]

For the most part, very satisfied with the Upshot combo! Yes, when I purchased it from Gollihur early last year, I sprung for the whole package. (Which included Amp,cab,connecting plate,cord and backpack). You can buy everything separately if you prefer. Gollihur is very helpful too!

Pros: This is a combo which is most useful in small to medium locations and no loud drummer. The cab is a single 10”. (I’m pushing 350w x 8ohms..you can go to 650 with another 8 ohm cab). It does have a good bass response. Strong mids too. It’s so small and convenient. You can place on the floor, chair, coffee table,etc. My favorite is directly below or just by my ear. You just pack it up and go. The cab itself is a great extension to another rig too or if you just need a “monitor” by your ear. The thing has a handle so you hang it if you wanted too.

Cons: It is ONLY one 10”. (8ohms)By itself. This is NOT meant for loud situations. The Clarus amp has some headroom so I find it best for lower practices and small/medium gigs on both EB and DB. Loud situations or loud drummers will wash it out and you will overdrive it. You can add a 8ohm extension speaker to bring the Clarus amp up to its full 650 watts which will help. I advise no gigs that are Motörhead or Black Sabbath inclined. The connecting plate could have a little bit more thought out. Takes a couple of minutes. That’s really my only beef.

Comparisons: Im a bit light on that. I only had two other combos at the the time. My AI Corus R (My main combo)and my Markbass Minimark. I like them all. The all have their strengths. The Minimark is the bassiest,the Corus R, the most beefiest. Why did I get the Upshot? It is the most flexible and portable for me. I can run the cab with the other combos too. I did listen to the AI Doubleshot by itself once, but I prefer the Upshot sound. I thought the Double didn’t have enough punch. The Upshot has great mids too. I Just like it a lot too. Here’s the link to Gollihur if you wanted to read more. [Invalid or Expired Link Removed]

And that, ladies and gents, is why the Combo Club exists. Whether it’s to assist in bhendrix buy a combo or to learn about a lesser-known (to me) brand like AI from roccobass, I always find something interesting here. Thanks to our membership for making the CC 100% fun!

 

[GonePlaid]

Good morning! b, you are the consummate gentleman! Here I pooped all over your “I’m thinking about a new amp” parade and yet you still offer a super-nice compliment. ‘Dog, write me up for a violation and use Code OU812 as your reason; knocking a combo amp they a kind vas’s player wanted to buy.

I apologize for being so negative about the Roland (and no, swink, it’s not Ronald!). I just don’t want you to waste hard-earned cash on something you may regret, that’s all. I have to take care of my peoples, ya know? (Code: SOS)

No negatives here, but I wanna respond to your post. Agreed, there are many positive comments on the Micro Cube, though if you read enough you’ll find some drinkers. Read those too because they can be insightful.

A major complaint is if just isn’t loud enough. Players had trouble playing along with music without having to fight their sound source. So unless you’re using it solely to noodle with the rhythm box, you’ll have to keep the volume low.

The Fender I was talking about wasn't the Studio 40 but the LT25, a 25-watt, 8” combo with a nice set of features. You’re looking at $220 (compared to the $300+ price tag for the Roland), but doesn't offer the battery-power. If that’s a dealbreaker then the Fender won’t work. But if you’ll be in the house playing mostly I don’t think it’ll be a contest. Use the money saved to buy a long extension cord so you can sit out in the summer porch!

I know the Pignose has had battery troubles and that might scare me off too, and I’ve read where the B’star Fly is either loved or hated. Buy the two-piece rig if you’re gonna go that route.

Now, if I could offer you the ULTIMATE option and the price wasn’t such a big deal it would be the PJB Double Four! You’ll need to save more $, but it’ll be oh so worth it. Eight pounds, sonically incredible, will last you a lifetime, and yes, pick up a recommended computer battery and you’ll have all the portability you’ll need. This combo can handle a low B note and it has half of the speakers of the Roland! Look used or discounted and add the battery...good to go! Oh yeah, I use free website with a metronome and four different drum beats. Do you really need the Bossa Nova?

I know, another long one. I’ll close with a piece of advice. You buy whatever you want and enjoy it, no batter what’s said here. If your heart is set, then go for it. Try to play one if you can, but if you can’t, open the boxes carefully and don’t throw anything out until you’re certain it’s a keeper. And after that, just love it.

Let us know what you decide, b, and thanks for the respect. It’s mutual.

What's with hating Bossa Nova?(JK)Our group is often called on to do "dinner music" 'cos (A)We can, and (2)management wants it. We're also quite adept at jazz and the "Great American Songbook". Besides, it doesn't hurt to have another arrow in yer quiver.

 

[redstrand]

Well holy crap, the Double 4 is outstanding(full disclosure, I've always liked PJB tone) ran five basses through it. It was stellar until I got to the Darkstar, which in all fairness is the loudest pickup around...turned the input volume down and was fine. Full rich bass tone, dig it.

 

[iagtrplyr]

What's with hating Bossa Nova?(JK)Our group is often called on to do "dinner music" 'cos (A)We can, and (2)management wants it. We're also quite adept at jazz and the "Great American Songbook". Besides, it doesn't hurt to have another arrow in yer quiver.

No disagreement here. The larger the quiver the more you can stick into it. My point on b’s Micro Cube RX is, unless he’s going into working the styles offered and needs a beat right now (which kind of cheesy-sounding), he could probably find all the beats he’ll ever need online for free. It’s just food for thought.

I think there’s also a samba, rhumba, and Hungarian folk rhythms too!

 

[redstrand]

Really really diggin it. Full fat bass tone without overwhelming volume.

 

[GwenOnBass]

That's a Thunderbird pickup in there IIRC? Lots of combo cred around these parts with Thunderbird bonuses!

 

[iagtrplyr]

Really really diggin it. Full fat bass tone without overwhelming volume.

View attachment 3872233

bhendrix, THIS is what I’m talking about! I know the comparison, price-wise, is not even close between the PBJ and Roland, but the tonal difference is night and day. You’ll be hearing pure, clean...you as soon as you plug in. Am I right, red?

Add a little compression and/or your favorite FX pedals and enjoy yourself. Try ‘em both our if ya can, but don’t be surprised that the “smaller” combo isn’t your favorite!

Glad you’re digging it, redstrand. It’s definitely a good look your Gibson bass? Is that one of the now-defunct Les Paul basses? If not, what is it?

 

[bhendrix]

I apologize for being so negative about the Roland

No apologies needed! Opinions are like ____ - everyone has one! . Just enjoy the counterpoint to my point!

A major complaint is if just isn’t loud enough.

This coming from a guy that plays a TERROR BASS... perhaps a trip to your local hearing specialist is in order

My point on b’s Micro Cube RX is, unless he’s going into working the styles offered and needs a beat right now

Actually don't NEED any of the rhythms, will be more of a toy to play with than anything else. BTW - if I need a metronome, I actually still have my old Seth Thomas pendulum metronome from the 70's learning saxophone!

The Fender I was talking about wasn't the Studio 40 but the LT25, a 25-watt, 8” combo with a nice set of features. You’re looking at $220 (compared to the $300+ price tag for the Roland), but doesn't offer the battery-power. If that’s a dealbreaker then the Fender won’t work. But if you’ll be in the house playing mostly I don’t think it’ll be a contest. Use the money saved to buy a long extension cord so you can sit out in the summer porch!

I'm intrigued with the LT25 and will check it out further. The back porch is covered/screened and has two power outlets, so no issue with plug in.

Love me some Fender! Thanks for bringing up the LT25 - for some reason, had it on my mind the 40 was the smallest Fender amp with modeling/effects....a mind is a terrible thing to waste Now back to the drawing board as I investigate the LT25!

 

[redstrand]

bhendrix, THIS is what I’m talking about! I know the comparison, price-wise, is not even close between the PBJ and Roland, but the tonal difference is night and day. You’ll be hearing pure, clean...you as soon as you plug in. Am I right, red?

Add a little compression and/or your favorite FX pedals and enjoy yourself. Try ‘em both our if ya can, but don’t be surprised that the “smaller” combo isn’t your favorite!

Glad you’re digging it, redstrand. It’s definitely a good look your Gibson bass? Is that one of the now-defunct Les Paul basses? If not, what is it?

It’s the newer DC I put a Thunderbird pickup in it. And yes no comparison, the tone is great, worth every penny.

 

[bhendrix]

bhendrix, THIS is what I’m talking about! I know the comparison, price-wise, is not even close between the PBJ and Roland, but the tonal difference is night and day. You’ll be hearing pure, clean...you as soon as you plug in. Am I right, red?

Totally agree with you fearless leader, but my wallet does not!

 

[iagtrplyr]

No apologies needed! Opinions are like ____ - everyone has one! . Just enjoy the counterpoint to my point!


This coming from a guy that plays a TERROR BASS... perhaps a trip to your local hearing specialist is in order

Actually don't NEED any of the rhythms, will be more of a toy to play with than anything else. BTW - if I need a metronome, I actually still have my old Seth Thomas pendulum metronome from the 70's learning saxophone!

I'm intrigued with the LT25 and will check it out further. The back porch is covered/screened and has two power outlets, so no issue with plug in.

Love me some Fender! Thanks for bringing up the LT25 - for some reason, had it on my mind the 40 was the smallest Fender amp with modeling/effects....a mind is a terrible thing to waste Now back to the drawing board as I investigate the LT25!

Thank you, my friend, for a fun post to read. Please do check out the ‘25. It looks to me like a baby version of the Stage/Studio. And for the price you can’t knock it.

As for your Terror Bass line...whatcha say? And don’t forget the Stage 800. That sucker is loud!

 

[iagtrplyr]

It’s the newer DC I put a Thunderbird pickup in it. And yes no comparison, the tone is great, worth every penny.

I thought so! I finally learn a little about this bass and then they drop it. I think I could’ve maybe flipped this one around, changed the nut, and rocked it to within an inch of its life. The price, for a Gibby, wasn’t even too bad.

 

[GonePlaid]

I thought so! I finally learn a little about this bass and then they drop it. I think I could’ve maybe flipped this one around, changed the nut, and rocked it to within an inch of its life. The price, for a Gibby, wasn’t even too bad.

I'd bet they're still available-somewhere out there.

 

[iagtrplyr]

I'd bet they're still available-somewhere out there.

I was just looking. I saw GC had what looked like an ebony for $599, I believe. That’s a really good price because they sold for a grand.

Maybe redstrand would be kind enough to record his LP through the D4 and post it here. I’d love to hear what it sounds like. The faded cherry would be my first pick, but the ebony would be okay too.

 

[GonePlaid]

I was just looking. I saw GC had what looked like an ebony for $599, I believe. That’s a really good price because they sold for a grand.

Maybe redstrand would be kind enough to record his LP through the D4 and post it here. I’d love to hear what it sounds like. The faded cherry would be my first pick, but the ebony would be okay too.

For 6 bills initially, you could (have it) refinish(ed) in yer choice of color(s).

 

[redstrand]

I was just looking. I saw GC had what looked like an ebony for $599, I believe. That’s a really good price because they sold for a grand.

Maybe redstrand would be kind enough to record his LP through the D4 and post it here. I’d love to hear what it sounds like. The faded cherry would be my first pick, but the ebony would be okay too.

Mine has a Thunderbird pickup from Curtis Novak and I put a Nordstrand Tonedrop in it too, I bought it knowing I was going to mod it

 

[G-Dog]

... ... I'm intrigued with the LT25 and will check it out further. ... ...
Love me some Fender! Thanks for bringing up the LT25 - for some reason, had it on my mind the 40 was the smallest Fender amp with modeling/effects....a mind is a terrible thing to waste Now back to the drawing board as I investigate the LT25!

Beni, the Rumble Studio 40 is the mini version of the mighty Rumble Stage 800, with all the same models, wifi, bluetooth, XLRs and FX loops, lacking only the high-power amp and extension cab capability.

But the Rumble LT25 is much more scaled down with many fewer models, no wifi, bluetooth, XLR nor FX loop. The aux, headphones and USB are its only connections. However it connects to your PC with the Fender Tone App for Windows, or Mac with the Tone App for Mac, for firmware updates. And I'm sure that it makes good use of its "greatest hits" of electric bass tones and effects for some of the very best sounds in small practice amp history! Certainly worth a look, but just be aware of the limitations compared to the Studio 40.


Edited to add: Oh, and BTW, the LT25 actually weights 0.2 lb. more than the Studio 40 in a slightly smaller box!
.

 

[iagtrplyr]

Beni, the Rumble Studio 40 is the mini version of the mighty Rumble Stage 800, with all the same models, wifi, bluetooth, XLRs and FX loops, lacking only the high-power amp and extension cab capability.

But the Rumble LT25 is much more scaled down with many fewer models, no wifi, bluetooth, XLR nor FX loop. The aux, headphones and USB are its only connections. However it connects to your PC with the Fender Tone App for Windows, or Mac with the Tone App for Mac, for firmware updates. And I'm sure that it makes good use of its "greatest hits" of e,ectric bass tones and effects for some of the very best sounds in small practice amp history. Certainly worth a look, but be aware of the limitations compared to the Studio 40.
.

This is my attorney who comes on after a make a splash of generalizations and reads the fine print. ‘Dog is correct though, and while the Studio 40 is quite a wallop at a not shabby price, IMHO, I do think the LT25 is a great way to break in the modeling market and sound better than the Cube.

And since you are in what sounds to be an electrified back porch enclosing, battery-power isn’t a #1 priority but more of a nicety.

Thanks, 007!