Trying to make a decision on new amp head

[adcooper]

Hey guys
Due to my Ashdown Mag300 head unti crapping out on me I am in need of a new amplifier. I've been researching various makes and models and i'm still a bit unsure on what unit to buy. It seems whenever i come across a thread about a particular unit the posts seem divided between people saying how unreliable it is and other swearing they will use it for the next 20 years.

I'm also unsure on Tube amps having never owned one. How often due tubes need replacing and do they require more maintenance than say your average Solid State amp.

I've narrowed my choices down to the following units, please not the prices are in AUD and i would prefer to buy locally so that i get a warranty. The amp will have to power a Avatar 410 1000W 4ohm Cab

GK 1001RB II - $1190

Ampeg SVT-7PRO - $1299

Ampeg SVT-3Pro - $1599 (a bit expensive but i'm willing to save the money if its worth it)

Aguilar Tone Hammer 500 - $899

Eden WT550 - $1249

Ashdown ABM500 EVO III - $799

Orange Tiny Terror 500W - $899


As you can see Theres still 7 amps to pick between evening after narrowing my choices down. I have no experience with any of the brands except for Ashdown and even then it was using there cheapest head unit. I want an amp that is going to last me and that has good tonal options and i would really appreciate it if you guys could help me out.

Thanks

 

[adcooper]

Sorry for the double post but I should probably add that the guitarist I play with uses a Vox Ac30 and I struggle too be heard over that with the Mag 300. Although i know Wattage is a poor measurement of volume would the 1000W SVT-7 be much louder than say the 500w Tone hammer?

 

[countrybass007]

I've used both the GK1001RBII and the Orange Tiny Terror and they've both done a great job. The Gk is cleaner sounding, the Orange a bit dirtier. The GK has been in use for about four years with zero problems, the Orange a little over a year. My band prefers the sound of the Orange.

 

[RickenBoogie]

If it's more volume you want, it's more/better/bigger speakers you need.

 

[bassfootballguy]

On that list, I have owned the Ashdown and the Aguilar and played through a generous amount of Ampeg, Eden and GK stuff.
Voicing of the amp has much to do with cutting through a mix. With the Ashdown, if you engage the shape, there will be lots more low end, but your perceived volume will lower due to the EQ curve.
I still own the Aguilar, which can be had for 699 or less. It is STUPID loud, very light and has a simple, yet versatile enough EQ, great customer service and quality reputation and a sweet drive circuit.
I love the tone of Ampegs and have owned some, but I would try the Aguilar. If you don't prefer it, send it back!

 

[Gearhead17]

What cabinet do you have? With a loud enough cabinet, you should be just fine with nearly any head on there. You might want to get two cabinets.....