Why Combos?

[WoodyG3]

This is the combo I use, too. Of course, I have that heavy Sansamp BDDI box to carry, too, which adds another pound.

Separates would actually weigh 6 pounds more according to Markbass specs, and would cost $200 more.

I still can't figure out where that extra 6 lbs comes from. Is the separate cab that much better built that it adds 6 lbs?

Yeah, I wonder if the Markbass specs are off on that. Anyway, either way it's pretty darn light. $200 extra in my wallet is nice, though.

 

[Absentia]

Because I can carry everything in one trip.

Right hand amp left hand bass gtg.

 

[fingerbun]

I can't play without my 810. It Is the one price of gear that I must have. If they made an 810/ 200-300 watt all tube combo then maybe Keep in mind I play in a fairly loud band, a lot of places we play PA support is limited to some drum mics. Also playing heavy music through an SWR combo just doesn't look right

For what you do today an 810 works for you. No problem. Not a question of right or wrong. And it stays set up in your rehearsal space except when you gig so lugging isn't a big deal.

I signed up to be a musician, not a roadie. I don't gig that often, only 4-6 shows a month plus playing a church and rehearsals or jams, but I have a demanding job and other interests. So for me I will pay extra to save time and effort with gear. That leads me to favour combos.

For small stuff a cube does me just fine. For larger stuff I use components. I just don't like the sound of things like Markbass or AER and so on so I choose to lug old school gear. ( not knocking those amps this is just my preference).

But there are limits to volume. If a band turns into a contest between me and a guitarist for volume, the result is going to be headaches and bad sound out front.

For small stuff I can transport my rig, the PA and three basses (fretted, fretless and upright) in the back of a Corolla hatch. An 810 would not improve my sound at those gigs.

 

[fingerbun]

I don't see what the big deal with making two or three trips is?

If you find yourself playing 5 or 6 times a week, lugging out in the early hours of the morning when you just want to chill out, and doing venues where the lug is a long trip through service corridors or lifts you'll get it.

 

[Amok]

If this thread goes on much longer I will be looking for a bridge to jump from. To each his/her own and never the twain shall twixt.